bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
FMRP regulation of aggrecan mRNA translation controls perineuronal net development
Authors: van't Spijker Heleen M. , Richter Joel D. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPerineuronal nets (PNNs) are mesh‐like structures on the surfaces of parvalbumin‐expressing inhibitory and other neurons, and consist of proteoglycans such as aggrecan, brevican, and neurocan. PNNs regulate the Excitatory/Inhibitory (E/I) balance in the brain and are formed at the closure of critical periods of plasticity during development. PNN formation is disrupted in Fragile X Syndrome, which is caused by silencing of the fragile X messenger ribonucleoprotein 1 (Fmr1) gene and loss of its protein product FMRP. FXS is characterized by impaired synaptic plasticity resulting in neuronal hyperexcitability and E/I imbalance. Here, we investigate how PNN formation is altered in FXS. PNNs are reduced in Fmr1 KO mouse brain when examined by staining for the lectin Wisteria floribunda agglutin (WFA) and aggrecan. Examination of PNNs by WFA staining at P14 and P42 in the hippocampus, somatosensory cortex, and retrosplenial cortex shows that they were reduced in these brain regions at P14 but mostly less so at P42 in Fmr1 KO mice. However, some differential FMRP regulation of PNN development in these brain regions persists, perhaps caused by asynchrony in PNN development between brain regions in wild‐type animals. During development, aggrecan PNN levels in the brain were reduced in all brain regions in Fmr1 KO mice. Aggrecan mRNA levels were unchanged at these times, suggesting that FMRP is normally an activator of aggrecan mRNA translation. This hypothesis is buttressed by the observations that FMRP binds aggrecan mRNA and that ribosome profiling data show that aggrecan mRNA is associated with reduced numbers of ribosomes in Fmr1 KO mouse brain, indicating reduced translational efficiency. Moreover, aggrecan mRNA poly(A) tail length is also reduced in Fmr1 KO mouse brain, suggesting a relationship between polyadenylation and translational control. We propose a model where FMRP modulates PNN formation through translational up‐regulation of aggrecan mRNA polyadenylation and translation.image
An immersive virtual reality tool for assessing left and right unilateral spatial neglect
Authors: Thomasson Marine , Perez‐Marcos Daniel , Crottaz‐Herbette Sonia , Brenet Fanny , Saj Arnaud , Bernati Thérèse , Serino Andrea , Tadi Tej , Blanke Olaf , Ronchi Roberta 
Published: January 2024

AbstractThe reported rate of the occurrence of unilateral spatial neglect (USN) is highly variable likely due to the lack of validity and low sensitivity of classical tools used to assess it. Virtual reality (VR) assessments try to overcome these limitations by proposing immersive and complex environments. Nevertheless, existing VR‐based tasks are mostly focused only on near space and lack analysis of psychometric properties and/or clinical validation. The present study evaluates the clinical validity and sensitivity of a new immersive VR‐based task to assess USN in the extra‐personal space and examines the neuronal correlates of deficits of far space exploration. The task was administrated to two groups of patients with right (N = 28) or left (N = 11) hemispheric brain lesions, also undergoing classical paper‐and‐pencil assessment, as well as a group of healthy participants. Our VR‐based task detected 44% of neglect cases compared to 31% by paper‐and‐pencil tests in the total sample. Importantly, 30% of the patients (with right or left brain lesions) with no clear sign of USN on the paper‐and‐pencil tests performed outside the normal range in the VR‐based task. Voxel lesion‐symptom mapping revealed that deficits detected in VR were associated with lesions in insular and temporal cortex, part of the neural network involved in spatial processing. These results show that our immersive VR‐based task is efficient and sensitive in detecting mild to strong manifestations of USN affecting the extra‐personal space, which may be undetected using standard tools.
One session of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation induces mild and transient analgesic effects among female individuals with painful temporomandibular disorders
Authors: Herrero Babiloni Alberto , Provost Catherine , Charlebois‐Plante Camille , De Koninck Beatrice P. , Apinis‐Deshaies Amelie , Lavigne Gilles J. , Martel Marc O. , De Beaumont Louis 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectiveTemporomandibular disorders (TMD) are characterised by chronic pain and dysfunction in the jaw joint and masticatory muscles. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) has emerged as a potential non‐invasive treatment for chronic pain; however, its effectiveness in individuals with TMD has not been thoroughly investigated. This study aimed to evaluate the immediate and sustained (over seven consecutive days) effects of a single session of active rTMS compared to sham stimulation on pain intensity and pain unpleasantness in individuals with TMD.MethodsA randomised, double‐blind, sham‐controlled trial enrolled 41 female participants with chronic TMD. Pain intensity and pain unpleasantness were assessed immediately pre‐ and post‐intervention, as well as twice daily for 21 days using electronic diaries. Secondary outcomes included pain interference, sleep quality, positive and negative affect and pain catastrophizing. Adverse effects were monitored. Repeated measures ANOVA and multilevel modelling regression analyses were employed for data analysis.ResultActive rTMS demonstrated a significant immediate mild reduction in pain intensity and pain unpleasantness compared to sham stimulation. However, these effects were not sustained over the 7‐day post‐intervention period. No significant differences were observed between interventions for pain interference, sleep quality and negative affect. A minority of participants reported minor and transient side effects, including headaches and fatigue.ConclusionA single session of active rTMS was safe and led to immediate mild analgesic effects in individuals with TMD compared to sham stimulation. However, no significant differences were observed between interventions over the 7‐day post‐intervention period. Based on this study, rTMS stimulation appears to be a promising safe approach to be tested in TMD patients with longer stimulation protocols.
Availability of the seat belt defense: Implications for auto liability insurance
Authors: Born Patricia , Karl J. Bradley , Nyce Charles 
Published: January 2024

AbstractA “seat belt defense” allows a defendant in a third‐party auto liability event to present evidence of seat belt nonuse to reduce a plaintiff's recovery. When successfully applied, the defense has a direct effect on reducing liability payouts by insurers for accidents. Our analysis reveals that seat belt defense laws are associated with a 10% reduction in auto claims costs, which equates to a reduction in loss costs of approximately $14 per insured vehicle. We find little evidence that the defense reduces accident frequency and no evidence that the defense affects seat belt usage. The lack of a deterrent effect on driving behavior suggests that the availability of the defense is not salient to drivers. The reduction in loss costs supports the notion that defense lawyers are aware of the defense and make use of it. The resulting effect of lowering insurance payouts may alleviate increasing auto insurance costs.
Sampling origins and directions affect the minimum sampling area in forest plots
Authors: He Chenqi , Fan Fan , Qiao Xiujuan , Zhou Zhang , Xu Han , Li Sheng , Zhu Jiangling , Wang Shaopeng , Tang Zhiyao , Fang Jingyun 
Published: January 2024

AbstractQuestionsThe minimum sampling area (minimum area) is the smallest space that reflects species composition and characteristics of a plant community. The quantitative concept of minimum area is often estimated using species–area relationships (SARs) and has become the classical foundation for managing protected areas. However, sampling designs to determine the minimum area in different forest types have not been systematically evaluated.LocationChina.MethodsWe used tree census data from three forest dynamic plots, each with a size of 25–60 ha, in different climatic zones in China to determine the minimum areas of woody plants and to analyze the effects of species richness and topographic heterogeneity on the minimum areas by changing sampling origin and direction.ResultsWe found that mainly sampling design affects the estimation of woody plant species richness and required minimum area in different forest types. The estimated size of the minimum areas required was several hectares and varied significantly with sampling origin and direction, and showed a difference of approximately 1.5–2 times in the forest plots. Topographic heterogeneity significantly affected the minimum area through changes in species composition.ConclusionsSampling origin and direction should be considered when using SARs to estimate the minimum area and species diversity in communities. Such a comprehensive approach of sampling can contribute to a better understanding of vegetation characteristics and the minimum area required for a conservation census in heterogeneous environments.
Whole‐genome CRISPR screens to understand Apicomplexan–host interactions
Authors: Hesping Eva , Boddey Justin A. 
Published: January 2024

AbstractApicomplexan parasites are aetiological agents of numerous diseases in humans and livestock. Functional genomics studies in these parasites enable the identification of biological mechanisms and protein functions that can be targeted for therapeutic intervention. Recent improvements in forward genetics and whole‐genome screens utilising CRISPR/Cas technology have revolutionised the functional analysis of genes during Apicomplexan infection of host cells. Here, we highlight key discoveries from CRISPR/Cas9 screens in Apicomplexa or their infected host cells and discuss remaining challenges to maximise this technology that may help answer fundamental questions about parasite–host interactions.
Investigating Parkinson's disease with dual high resolution pharyngeal manometry with impedance and videofluoroscopy
Authors: Saleem Shakeela , Miles Anna , Allen Jacqueline 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPurposeTo characterize pharyngeal function in people with Parkinson's Disease using both high resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) and videofluoroscopy (VFSS) and to explore correlations between VFSS and HRIM metrics.MethodsAll participants received both VFSS and HRIM within 24 h‐time window. A standard VFSS protocol (IDDSI 0: 1 mL, 3 mL, 20 mL, and 100 mL) was performed. A solid‐state unidirectional catheter (36 pressure sensors) was used to acquire manometric data for triplicate swallows (IDDSI 0: 5 mL, 10 mL, 20 mL), quantitative swallow analysis was completed through Swallowtail™ and SwallowGateway™. Parameters were compared to published norms and statistical tests explored correlational associations (p < 0.05).ResultsTwenty‐one participants (76% male; mean age 70 years, SD7.16) with mild–moderate severity PD were recruited with 73% reporting Eating Assessment Tool (EAT‐10) scores ≥3 indicating swallow impairment. Compared to normal metrics, one third of participants had abnormally elevated hypopharyngeal contractile integral (HPCI), hypopharyngeal peak pressure, upper esophageal sphincter (UES) integrated relaxation pressure (UES IRP), and reduced UES maximum admittance. Five participants showed compromised swallow safety (Penetration‐Aspiration Scale score ≥6). One third of participants had abnormal VFSS values for pharyngoesophageal segment (PES) opening duration, maximum PES opening distance, and maximum hyoid displacement measures. Some HRIM metrics had a strong correlation with pharyngeal VFSS measures (r > 0.60, p < 0.05).ConclusionThis study identifies early manometric signs of pharyngeal dysfunction in people with PD. The congruence of the VFSS and HRIM measures confirms the hypothesis of insidious early decline in swallow function in PD despite maintenance of airway safety (i.e., low aspiration rates).
ALDH3A1 upregulation inhibits neutrophils N2 polarization and halts oral cancer growth
Authors: He Ying , Qu Yi , Jin Shan , Zhang Yongfeng , Qin Lizheng 
Published: January 2024

AbstractObjectivesTumor‐associated neutrophils (TANs) are among the most abundant inflammatory cells in tumor microenvironment (TME). Aldehyde dehydrogenase 3A1 (ALDH3A1) is significantly reduced in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), ALDH3A1 overexpression suppresses tumorigenesis by inhibiting inflammation. This study investigated the relationship and mechanisms underlying the crosstalk between ALDH3A1 and TANs in OSCC.Materials and MethodsImmunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence were performed to investigate the abundance of TANs and the expression of ALDH3A1. dHL‐60 were induced with tumor‐conditioned media and recombinant IL‐6/IL‐8. The expression of key proteins in PI3K/AKT/NF‐κB pathway were detected by RT‐PCR and western blot. A xenograft model was utilized to examine the effect of ALDH3A1 on tumorigenicity and polarization of TANs.ResultsIn patients with OSCC, TANs significantly increased and were associated with a worse prognosis. Additionally, ALDH3A1 negatively correlated with TANs infiltration and especially the N2 phenotype which was the prominent part in OSCC. Furthermore, our study demonstrated that tumor‐derived IL‐8 drives ALDH3A1‐mediated TANs N2 polarization in the TME through PI3K/AKT/NF‐κB pathway in vitro and in vivo.ConclusionOur results indicate that TANs can serve as a prognostic biomarker and ALDH3A1 could be a promising therapeutic target for regulating TANs N2 polarization in antitumor therapy.
The LaCLE35 peptide modifies rootlet density and length in cluster roots of white lupin
Authors: Olt Philipp , Ding Wenli , Schulze Waltraud X. , Ludewig Uwe 
Published: January 2024

AbstractWhite lupin (lupinus albus L.) forms special bottlebrush‐like root structures called cluster roots (CR) when phosphorus is low, to remobilise sparingly soluble phosphates in the soil. The molecular mechanisms that control the CR formation remain unknown. Root development in other plants is regulated by CLE
(CLAVATA3/
EMBRYO SURROUNDING REGION (ESR)‐RELATED) peptides, which provide more precise control mechanisms than common phytohormones. This makes these peptides interesting candidates to be involved in CR formation, where fine tuning to environmental factors is required. In this study we present an analysis of CLE peptides in white lupin. The peptides LaCLE35 (RGVHyPSGANPLHN) and LaCLE55 (RRVHyPSCHyPDPLHN) reduced root growth and altered CR in hydroponically cultured white lupins. We demonstrate that rootlet density and rootlet length were locally, but not systemically, impaired by exogenously applied CLE35. The peptide was identified in the xylem sap. The inhibitory effect of CLE35 on root growth was attributed to arrested cell elongation in root tips. Taken together, CLE peptides affect both rootlet density and rootlet length, which are two critical factors for CR formation, and may be involved in fine tuning this peculiar root structure that is present in a few crops and many Proteaceae species, under low phosphorus availability.
Who, how, and when do children help? A systematic review of children's outgroup prosocial behavior
Authors: Moran Deidre , Liu Vivian , Taylor Laura 
Published: January 2024

AbstractGiven the ingroup bias in children's prosocial behaviors, understanding what characterizes and predicts children's prosocial behaviors directed at outgroups has implications for more harmonious intergroup relations. We conducted a systematic review outlining the important theoretical frameworks that drive research in this area and examined the targets, types, and predictors surrounding prosocial behavior toward socially relevant outgroups among children ages 3–12 years. A total of 24 studies were included in the narrative synthesis. A range of targets of prosocial behavior (i.e., who was the intended recipient of the act) was observed and included both individual outgroup members and the collective outgroup. The studies also varied in the types of outgroup prosocial behavior assessed, including resource allocation, helping intentions, and collective prosocial behavior. Predictors of prosocial behavior occurred at two levels: individual and contextual. Individual predictors included contact, outgroup stereotypes, essentialist beliefs, empathy and mentalization, and fairness. Contextual factors included geographic proximity, reciprocity and collaboration, cost of helping, structural inequality, and intergroup conflict. Finally, we focus on age‐related changes to map the developmental trajectory of both the characteristics and predictors of prosocial behaviors. In a divided world, the implications for future research on outgroup prosocial behavior during childhood are discussed. We also reflect on the need for future longitudinal and culturally embedded research.
The EU's carbon border adjustment mechanism: Shaped and saved by shifting multi‐level reinforcement?
Authors: Wettestad Jørgen 
Published: January 2024

AbstractIn April 2023, the EU institutions finally adopted an innovative international climate policy instrument: the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). As the long and winding road to a CBAM has included significant EU‐internal and EU‐external opposition, a “shifting Multi‐Level Reinforcement” (MLR) perspective is helpful for understanding this development. When France assumed initial leadership from 2007, skepticism to the WTO, generous amounts of free allowances, combined with a low carbon price, provided a strong oppositional force. Then, influential elements in the European Parliament called for a carbon border tax, which was subsequently included as a central ingredient in the “Fit for 55” package launched by the Commission, In the decisionmaking process, leadership involving all the previous forces resulted in an institutional reinforcement dynamic strong enough to counter EU‐internal as well as EU‐external challenges and ‘turbulence’. This case shows the relevance of an updated MLR perspective for understanding also other EU processes, taking into account the growing role of both policy packages and trilogues as decisionmaking tools, indicating a possible strengthened role for the Commission also in the decisionmaking phase.
An app to support oral hygiene care: Increasing attitudes, knowledge, and confidence in identifying oral health problems among caregivers of persons living with dementia
Authors: Ashida Sato , Beachy Tim R. , Killian Emily , Pinho Hianca , Donohoe Maria , Schneider Haley , Marchini Leonardo 
Published: January 2024

AbstractPurposeTo develop and pilot test an App to help family and paid caregivers perform high quality oral hygiene care.MethodsA prototype of the App was refined based on stakeholder feedback (e.g., dental care professionals, direct care providers, nursing home administrator, family caregivers). The refined App was pilot tested with 16 family caregivers and 15 paid care providers of persons living with dementia (PLWD). Participants completed a pre‐test, watched an App demonstration, used it for 2 weeks, and completed a post‐test. Surveys included both structured and open‐ended questions.ResultsPhase 1 data informed the refinement of the App that led to high acceptability and usability by the Phase 2 participants. Both family and paid caregivers reported a significant increase in attitudes toward providing oral hygiene care to frail older adults (p = .05 and p = .02 for family and paid providers, respectively), knowledge about oral health and care (p = .01 and p = .02), and ability to identify oral health problems (p = .005 and p = .01). Additionally, paid caregivers reported increase in perceived support available in providing oral hygiene care (p < .001).ConclusionStakeholder engaged approach helped increase the acceptability and usability of the App that successfully increase caregivers’ attitude, knowledge, and abilities in oral hygiene care provision.
Exosomal miR‐126‐3p: Potential protection against vascular damage by regulating the SLC7A5/mTOR Signalling pathway in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Zhu Ke , Liu Chen , Guo Xiaofang , Zhang Xuting , Xie Jiaxin , Xie Songmiao , Qi Qing , Yang Bin 
Published: January 2024

AbstractSystemic sclerosis (SSc) is a chronic autoimmune connective tissue disease. Vascular damage is one of the important features of SSc, which affects the progression and prognosis of the disease. MiR‐126‐3p is an important microRNA (miRNA) that regulates vascular structure and function, which can be transported through exosomes. However, the role of miR‐126‐3p in vascular damage in SSc is still unclear. Therefore, we focused on the connection between miR‐126‐3p and vascular damage in SSc, as well as investigated the potential role of miR‐126‐3p in vascular damage in SSc. First, this study successfully extracted extracellular vesicles from clinical plasma samples and characterized the exosomes within them. Then, we predicted and screened the target pathway mammalian/mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR) and the target gene SLC7A5 of miR‐126‐3p through online databases. Next, we constructed SSc mice for in vivo studies. The results showed that the expression of miR‐126‐3p was decreased in the plasma exosomes, while the SLC7A5 expression, autophagy, and lipid peroxidation were increased in the aorta. Luciferase reporter gene assays demonstrated that miR‐126‐3p can bind to SLC7A5, resulting in a decrease in its expression. In vitro experiments have shown that exosomal miR‐126‐3p can be internalized by human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). The miR‐126‐3p group exhibited enhanced cell viability and tube formation ability, along with increased expression of the vascular formation marker CD31. Additionally, miR‐126‐3p downregulated the protein expression of SLC7A5 and LC3 in HUVECs, while upregulating the protein expression of mTOR, P62, PPARγ, and CPT‐1. However, the effects of miR‐126‐3p on HUVECs were counteracted by mTOR inhibitors and enhanced by mTOR activators. The results indicated that exosomal miR‐126‐3p has the potential to protect against vascular injury in SSc by regulating the SLC7A5/mTOR signalling pathway in HUVECs.
Easier, faster and safer: The social organization of drug dealing through encrypted messaging apps
Authors: Dewey Matías , Buzzetti Andrés 
Published: January 2024

AbstractEncrypted messaging apps like Telegram have become an increasingly attractive tool for drug dealing. The combination of easy opening and closing of user communities, powerful anonymity features, and operability on smartphones is changing the way drugs are delivered at the end of the chain. However, much of the recent research on Internet‐based drug markets has focused on cryptomarkets, but also on social media and the clear web. Drawing on economic sociology literature on marketplaces and partial organizations, this article fills this gap by analyzing the social organization of drug economies based on messaging apps. We argue that this form of drug trade enhances the experience of both selling and consuming drugs. Based on a unique set of in‐depth interviews with drug sellers and users belonging to four different Telegram groups in Argentina, this article shows that Telegram communities offer a wider variety of substances, speed up drug delivery, create the perception that police detection is unlikely, and promote drug specialization among sellers. This research expands our understanding of how technology and specific organizational forms transform both drug provision and consumption.