bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
PiNUI: A Dataset of Protein–Protein Interactions for Machine Learning
Authors: Dubourg-Felonneau Geoffroy , Wesego Daniel Mitiku , Akiva Eyal , Varadan Ranjani 
Published: December 2023

AbstractWe introduce a novel dataset namedPiNUI:ProteinInteractions withNearlyUniformImbalance. PiNUI is a dataset of Protein–Protein Interactions (PPI) specifically designed for Machine Learning (ML) applications that offer a higher degree of representativeness of real-world PPI tasks compared to existing ML-ready PPI datasets. We achieve such by increasing the data size and quality, and minimizing the sampling bias of negative interactions. We demonstrate that models trained on PiNUI almost always outperform those trained on conventional PPI datasets when evaluated on various general PPI tasks using external test sets. PiNUI is availablehere.
parSEQ:Probe and Rescue Sequencing for Advanced Variant Retrieval from DNA Pool
Authors: Houmani Moustafa , Peterkin Finlay , Antoun Gerard , Fischer Louis , Hammi Anissa 
Published: December 2023

AbstractModern protein engineering is powered by sequence-function data-sets. We have developed parSEQ, a platform that maximizes the capture of these protein sequence-function data-sets through a sequence-first-screen-later approach. parSEQ relies on Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) to reverse the conventional screen-first-sequence-later workflow. This allows for the high-throughput retrieval of variant sequences from DNA pools, ensuring that every screened variant’s functional data is paired with its sequence data. This report details parSEQ’s methodology and its integration into various protein engineering workflows. Through several case studies, we illustrate parSEQ’s broad applicability. These case studies describe the use of parSEQ for high-throughput variant DNA-template retrieval, expression-ready bacterial clone isolation, sourcing DNA for denovo designed proteins, and preparing targeted mutational libraries. Our findings suggest that parSEQ’s approach to capturing sequence-function data-sets can advance protein engineering efforts, particularly in the age of artificial intelligence and machine learning.
Design for maintainability (DfM) implementation among design professionals: empirical evidence from a developing country context
Authors: Agyekum Kofi , Dompey Annabel Morkporkpor Ami , Pittri Hayford , Botchway Edward Ayebeng 
Published: December 2023

PurposeDesign for maintainability (DfM) is a construction technique that links maintenance objectives with the design process. Adopting DfM within the construction industry is a solution that can make the maintenance of buildings cost-efficient and simpler. This study investigates the level of implementation of DfM among design professionals in the Ghanaian construction industry (GCI).Design/methodology/approachThe data from design professionals comprising architects and civil/structural engineers were collected via a questionnaire survey. The data obtained were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistical tests.FindingsThe findings revealed a high level of engagement of design professionals in DfM practices in the Ghanaian construction sector. This high level of engagement is credited to the high level of awareness of the concept of DfM among design professionals, the level of education of design professionals, experience in professional roles and familiarity with the principles of DfM.Originality/valueThis study offers information and fresh perspectives on how cutting-edge DfM principles are practiced in the GCI. The study raises awareness and the level of DfM implementation among design professionals in the GCI. It offers information on how the application of DfM principles enhances cost-effective maintenance that allows facilities to stand the test of time and prove more relevant for users. The understanding and application of DfM in different countries are important if such concepts are to take deep root in the global built environment sector.
Corporate science communication: a compound ideological and mega-ideological discourse
Authors: Waymer Damion , Hill Theon E. 
Published: December 2023

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to contribute to science communication literature by further highlighting the underexplored role of organizational and corporate perspectives in science communication.Design/methodology/approachThe paper takes the form of a conceptual article that uses two illustrative vignettes to highlight the power of corporate science communication.FindingsThe key argument is that corporate science communication is a compound ideology that results from merging the hegemonic corporate voice with the ultimate/god-term science (see the work of Kenneth Burke) to form a mega-ideological construct and discourse. Such communication can be so powerful that vulnerable publics and powerful advocates speaking on their behalf have little to no recourse to effectively challenge such discourse. While critiques of corporate science communication in practice are not new, what the authors offer is a possible explanation as to why such discourse is so powerful and hard to combat.Originality/valueThe value of this paper is in the degree to which it both sets an important applied research agenda for the field and fills a critical void in the science communication literature. This conceptual article, in the form of a critical analysis, fills the void by advocating for the inclusion of organizational perspectives in science communication research because of the great potential that organizations have, via science communication, to shape societal behavior and outcomes both positively and negatively. It also coins the terms “compound ideology” and “mega-ideology” to denote that while all ideologies are powerful, ideologies can operate in concert (compound) to change their meaning and effectiveness. By exposing the hegemonic power of corporate science communication, future researchers and practitioners can use these findings as a foundation to combat misinformation and disinformation campaigns wielded by big corporate science entities and the public relations firms often hired to carry out these campaigns.
Why can’t you be all talk to get things done? Consumer acceptance of voice-assisted products
Authors: Xiao Yazhen , Tan Huey Yii 
Published: December 2023

Purpose
Voice assistant technology represents one of the most radical artificial intelligence innovations. Drawing on the processing fluency theory and consumer learning literature, this study aims to explore how consumer acceptance of new products is influenced by voice assistant function (VAF), along with the impacts of role clarity and learning modality.

Design/methodology/approach
Four between-subjects experimental studies were conducted. Study 1 tested the main effect of VAF on consumer acceptance. Study 2 included role clarity as a mediator between VAF and consumer acceptance. Study 3 examined the moderation effect of learning modality and contrasted the effectiveness of experiential and verbal learning in helping increase consumer acceptance. Study 4, as a post hoc study, tested serial mediations to validate whether processing fluency was indeed the mechanism explaining the indirect relationship between VAF and consumer acceptance via role clarity.

Findings
The negative impact of VAF on consumer acceptance was demonstrated in all four studies. Studies 2 and 3 showed VAF decreased role clarity which further influenced consumer acceptance. Moreover, Study 3 evidenced that experiential learning was more effective than verbal learning in increasing consumer acceptance of voice-assisted products via role clarity. Study 4 demonstrated that VAF decreased role clarity, which in turn decreased processing fluency, leading to lower consumer acceptance.

Originality/value
This research views the usage of voice-assisted products as a coproduction process between consumers and the VAF. Accordingly, findings provide novel insights into processing fluency of tasks assisted by VAF through the lens of role clarity and learning modality, which enriches the understanding of potential barriers and opportunities for consumers to accept voice-assisted products.
Data-driven decision-making in maintenance management and coordination throughout the asset life cycle: an empirical study
Authors: Hinrichs Maren , Prifti Loina , Schneegass Stefan 
Published: December 2023

PurposeWith production systems become more digitized, data-driven maintenance decisions can improve the performance of production systems. While manufacturers are introducing predictive maintenance and maintenance reporting to increase maintenance operation efficiency, operational data may also be used to improve maintenance management. Research on the value of data-driven decision support to foster increased internal integration of maintenance with related functions is less explored. This paper explores the potential for further development of solutions for cross-functional responsibilities that maintenance shares with production and logistics through data-driven approaches.Design/methodology/approachFifteen maintenance experts were interviewed in semi-structured interviews. The interview questions were derived based on topics identified through a structured literature analysis of 126 papers.FindingsThe main findings show that data-driven decision-making can support maintenance, asset, production and material planning to coordinate and collaborate on cross-functional responsibilities. While solutions for maintenance planning and scheduling have been explored for various operational conditions, collaborative solutions for maintenance, production and logistics offer the potential for further development. Enablers for data-driven collaboration are the internal synchronization and central definition of goals, harmonization of information systems and information visualization for decision-making.Originality/valueThis paper outlines future research directions for data-driven decision-making in maintenance management as well as the practical requirements for implementation.
Effect of the gut microbiota on the expression of genes that are important for maintaining skin function: Analysis using aged mice
Authors: Tabata Keito , Ikarashi Nobutomo , Shinozaki Yui , Yoshida Ryotaro , Kon Risako , Sakai Hiroyasu , Hosoe Tomoo , Kamei Junzo 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThe gut microbiota changes greatly at the onset of disease, and the importance of intestinal bacteria has been highlighted. The gut microbiota also changes greatly with aging. Aging causes skin dryness, but it is not known how changes in the gut microbiota with aging affects the expression of genes that are important for maintaining skin function. In this study, we investigated how age‐related changes in gut microbiota affect the expression of genes that regulate skin function. The gut microbiotas from young mice and aged mice were transplanted into germ‐free mice (fecal microbiota transplantation [FMT]). These recipient mice were designated FMT‐young mice and FMT‐old mice respectively, and the expression levels of genes important for maintaining skin function were analyzed. The dermal water content was significantly lower in old mice than that in young mice, indicating dry skin. The gut microbiota significantly differed between old mice and young mice. The water channel aquaporin‐3 (Aqp3) expression level in the skin of FMT‐old mice was significantly higher than that in FMT‐young mice. In addition, among the genes that play an important role in maintaining skin function, the expression levels of those encoding ceramide‐degrading enzyme, ceramide synthase, hyaluronic acid‐degrading enzyme, and Type I collagen were also significantly higher in FMT‐old mice than in FMT‐young mice. It was revealed that the gut microbiota, which changes with age, regulates the expression levels of genes related to skin function, including AQP3.
The distribution and drivers of microbial pigments in the cryoconite of four Tibetan glaciers
Authors: Lyu Xianfu , Cui Wanzhe , Ji Mukan , Wang Wenqiang , Zhang Zhihao , Liu Yongqin 
Published: December 2023

AbstractMicrobial pigments play a significant role in glacier albedo reduction, thereby contributing to accelerated glacier retreat. The Tibetan Plateau has experienced rapid glacier retreat in recent decades due to global warming, yet there is limited understanding of microbial pigment distribution in the region. Here, we investigated the pigment concentration and composition in cryoconite from four glaciers. Our results showed that chlorophylls were the dominant pigments in Palong No. 4 (PL) and Jiemayangzong (JMYZ) glaciers located in the south of the Tibetan Plateau, while carotenoids were dominant in Qiangyong (QY) and Tanggula (TGL) glaciers located in the central region. Additionally, the chlorophyll b to chlorophyll a ratio, which is an indicator of the algae‐to‐cyanobacteria ratio, was higher in PL and JMYZ compared to QY and TGL. By using Random Forest Regression and Structural Equation Modelling, we determined that the concentrations of chlorophyll a, chlorophyll b, and carotenoids were associated with autotrophic bacteria relative abundance, climatic factors, and a combination of bacterial and climatic factors, respectively. This study is the first to describe the distribution of microbial pigments in cryoconite from Tibetan glaciers, providing additional support on the influence of algal pigment on glacier retreat.
Radicalisation studies: An emerging interdisciplinary field
Authors: Abbas Tahir 
Published: December 2023

AbstractThis research note provides an overview of Radicalisation Studies as an emerging interdisciplinary field aimed at developing more holistic understandings of how and why individuals and groups turn to extreme ideologies and political violence. It traces the evolution of radicalisation research across core social science disciplines, including sociology, psychology, anthropology, and political science. While this burgeoning scholarship has expanded knowledge, persistent gaps remain due to studying radicalisation in disciplinary silos. To address this fragmentation, the research note proposes an integrated Radicalisation Studies approach grounded in critical social theory and reflexivity. This paradigm synthesises concepts and mechanisms from across disciplines to investigate the complex interplay between individual vulnerabilities, group dynamics, and broader socio‐political contexts in generating radicalisation. The note outlines theoretical foundations, guiding research questions, and methodological strategies for this new field focused on mixed‐methods, multi‐level analysis. Radicalisation Studies holds promise for advancing theoretical integration, contextualised explanations, critical perspectives on radicalisation discourse, and evidence‐based preventative policies. While challenges remain in institutionalising this emerging field, Radicalisation Studies has the potential to steer research towards greater interdisciplinarity and the nuanced understandings necessary to elucidate this complex phenomenon. The research note aims to spur debate on constructing Radicalisation Studies as a viable scholarly enterprise.
Npc1 gene mutation abnormally activates the classical Wnt signalling pathway in mouse kidneys and promotes renal fibrosis
Authors: Guan Lihong , Jia Zisen , Xu Keli , Yang Minlin , Li Xiaoying , Qiao Liang , Liu Yanli , Lin Juntang 
Published: December 2023

AbstractNiemann–Pick disease type C1 (NPC1) is a lysosomal lipid storage disease caused by NPC1 gene mutation. Our previous study found that, compared with wild‐type (Npc1+/+) mice, the renal volume and weight of Npc1 gene mutant (Npc1−/−) mice were significantly reduced. We speculate that Npc1 gene mutations may affect the basic structure of the kidneys of Npc1−/− mice, and thus affect their function. Therefore, we randomly selected postnatal Day 28 (P28) and P56 Npc1+/+ and Npc1−/− mice, and observed the renal structure and pathological changes by haematoxylin–eosin staining. The level of renal fibrosis was detected by immunofluorescence histochemical techniques, and western blotting was used to detect the expression levels of apoptosis‐related proteins and canonical Wnt signalling pathway related proteins. The results showed that compared with Npc1+/+ mice, the kidneys of P28 and P56 Npc1−/− mice underwent apoptosis and fibrosis; furthermore, there were obvious vacuoles in the cytoplasm of renal tubular epithelial cells of P56 Npc1−/− mice, the cell bodies were loose and foam‐like, and the canonical Wnt signalling pathway was abnormally activated. These results showed that Npc1 gene mutation can cause pathological changes in the kidneys of mice. As age increased, vacuoles developed in the cytoplasm of renal tubular epithelial cells, and apoptosis of renal cells, abnormal activation of the Wnt signalling pathway, and promotion of renal fibrosis increased.
Long‐term eltrombopag in children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia: A single‐centre extended real‐life observational study in China
Authors: Wang Zhifa , Wang Nan , Juntao Ouyang , Ma Jingyao , Dong Shuyue , Meng Jinxi , Liu Jingjing , Chen Zhenping , Cheng Xiaoling , Wu Runhui 
Published: December 2023

SummaryWe have previously confirmed the efficacy and safety of eltrombopag (ELT) in children with chronic immune thrombocytopenia (cITP). However, data on both long‐term exposure and early use of TPO‐RAs are lacking, so further ‘field‐practice’ evidence on treatment is required. Here, we report the long‐term follow‐up results (between September 2018 and June 2023) of our previous study. The main objective of this study was to retrospectively review our large institutional experience with ITP patients previously enrolled in our paediatric cITP study. We had more than 3 years of follow‐up by June 2023 for treatment patterns and outcomes. A total of 65 patients (28 males) were enrolled, with a median age at ELT initiation of 6.34 (range 1.65, 14.13) years and a follow‐up of 47.07 (36.00, 57.00) months, with 40.36 (10.53, 56.83) months of ELT therapy at the time of analysis. In total, 29.23% (19/65) of patients discontinued ELT due to stable response, and 18.46% (12/65) of patients switched to other ITP therapies due to loss of response (LOR) after 19.13 (14.53, 26.37) months. Of the 19 patients who discontinued ELT due to a stable response, 24.62% (16/65) achieved a 12 m sustained response off‐treatment (SRoT); the last recorded platelet count ranged from 56 to 166 × 109/L (median 107 × 109/L); and 4.62% (3/65) patients relapsed at 5, 6 and 9 months after discontinuation. Of the 12 patients who LOR to ELT after 19.13 (14.53, 26.37) months of therapy, four switched to avatrombopag, three switched to hetrombopag, two switched to traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), one underwent splenectomy and two received additional prednisolone under ELT treatment. Thirty‐four patients who tapered and maintained a durable response. The patients with LOR and the patients with tapering were compared; the platelet count at the start of ELT is lower, and the time to response is longer in the patients with LOR. The platelet count at the start of ELT and the time to response may be the predictive factors for LOR during ELT treatment. We report more than 3 years of long‐term clinical data on children with cITP using ELT. These data do not raise any new safety concerns regarding the long‐term use of ELT in children with cITP.
Exome sequencing identifies homozygous variants in MBOAT7 associated with neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Nazmina Gul , Khan Amjad , Jiang Jiuhong , Miao Zhichao , Khan Shahid Niaz , Khan Muhammad Ismail , Shah Abdul Haleem , Shah Ayesha Haleem , Khisroon Muhammad , Haack Tobias B 
Published: December 2023

AbstractIntellectual disability (ID) is a large group of neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by a congenital limitation in intellectual functioning (reasoning, learning, and problem solving), adaptive behavior (conceptual, social, and practical skills), originated at birth and manifested before the age of 18. By whole exome sequencing of five consanguineous Pakistani families presenting hallmark features of ID, global developmental delay, aggressive and self‐injurious behaviors, microcephaly, febrile seizures and facial dysmorphic features, we identified three novel homozygous missense variants (NM_024298.5: c.588G > T; p.Trp196Cys, c.736 T > C; p.Tyr246His and c.524A > C; p. Asp175Ala) and one rare homozygous in‐frame deletion variant (c.758_778del;p.Glu253_Ala259del) in membrane‐bound O‐acyltransferase family member 7 (MBOAT7) gene previously associated with autosomal recessive neurodevelopmental disorder. The segregation of the variants was validated by Sanger sequencing in all family members. In silico homology modeling of wild‐type and mutated proteins revealed substantial changes in the structure of both proteins, indicating a possible effect on function. The identification and validation of new pathogenic MBOAT7 variants in five cases of autosomal recessive ID further highlight the importance of this genes in proper brain function and development.
Contact allergens in African countries: A review of published patch test studies
Authors: Bonefeld Nikolaj Menné , Menné Torkil , Ahrensbøll‐Friis Ulrik , Gadsbøll Anne‐Sofie Østergaard , Wang Christian William , Theander Thor Grundtvig , Masenga Elisante John , Mavura Daudi , Ødum Niels , Bonefeld Charlotte Menné , Geisler Carsten 
Published: December 2023

AbstractOnly few studies on contact allergy in African countries have been published. The aim of the present study was to provide an overview of the most common contact allergens identified by the use of patch tests in African countries based on a review of the existing literature. A total of twenty‐four publications from eight African countries were initially identified by search in PubMed. The abstracts and method sections were screened, and 15 studies in which patch tests were actually used to identify the allergen causing the allergic contact dermatitis (ACD) were finally selected. Nickel, cobalt, chromium, fragrance mix and p‐tert‐butylphenol‐formaldehyde resin were the dominating contact allergens responsible for 40%–90% of the positive patch test reactions. This study indicates that a targeted effort directed towards prevention, avoidance and regulation of reliably identified contact allergens could reduce the disease burden of ACD considerable in some African countries.
A comparative study on the effect of alcohol‐based hand sanitizers in spray and gel formulation on the skin: A prospective, randomised, crossover trial
Authors: Suwanchai Chananya , Udompataikul Montree , Kamanamool Nanticha , Kanokrungsee Silada 
Published: December 2023

AbstractBackgroundMany formulations of Alcohol‐based hand rubs (ABHRs), such as liquid, gel, and spray have been developed and used for preventing infections. This study aimed to compare skin irritation from using ABHRs in gel and spray formulations.MethodThis was a prospective, randomised, crossover trial conducted to investigate the effect of skin irritation caused by ABHRs in gel compared to spray formulation after 21 days of using each formulation. Clinical outcomes were assessed using subjective Larson's skin assessment score and Frosch and Kligman observer skin assessment score, as well as bioengineering measures: transepidermal water loss (TEWL) and skin capacitance on days 3, 7, 14, and 21.ResultsAmong 38 participants, both formulations showed no significant change in clinical scores and skin capacitance during the study. However, TEWL increased significantly from baseline on day 3 (p = 0.029) for the spray formulation and on day 21 (p = 0.019) for the gel formulation, with no statistically significant difference between the formulations (p = 0.46).ConclusionOur research supports the safety of gel and spray ABHRs for regular use, with the only potential issue being mild skin irritation. For those with sensitive skin, the gel formulation is preferable.