bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Neural population dynamics reveal that motor-targeted intraspinal microstimulation preferentially depresses nociceptive transmission in spinal cord injury-related neuropathic pain
Authors: McPherson Jacob G. , Bandres Maria F. 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACTThe purpose of this study is to determine whether intraspinal microstimulation (ISMS) intended to enhance voluntary motor output after spinal cord injury (SCI) modulates neural population-level spinal responsiveness to nociceptive sensory feedback. The study was conductedin vivoin three cohorts of rats: neurologically intact, chronic SCI without behavioral signs of neuropathic pain, and chronic SCI with SCI-related neuropathic pain (SCI-NP). Nociceptive sensory feedback was induced by application of graded mechanical pressure to the plantar surface of the hindpaw before, during, and after periods of sub-motor threshold ISMS delivered within the motor pools of the L5 spinal segment. Neural population-level responsiveness to nociceptive feedback was recorded throughout the dorso-ventral extent of the L5 spinal segment using dense multi-channel microelectrode arrays. Whereas motor-targeted ISMS reduced nociceptive transmission across electrodes in neurologically intact animals both during and following stimulation, it was not associated with altered nociceptive transmission in rats with SCI that lacked behavioral signs of neuropathic pain. Surprisingly, nociceptive transmission was reduced both during and following motor-targeted ISMS in rats with SCI-NP, and to an extent comparable to that of neurologically intact animals. The mechanisms underlying the differential anti-nociceptive effects of motor-targeted ISMS are unclear, although they may be related to differences in the intrinsic active membrane properties of spinal neurons across the cohorts. Nevertheless, the results of this study support the notion that it may be possible to purposefully engineer spinal stimulation-based therapies that afford multi-modal rehabilitation benefits, and specifically that it may be possible to do so for the individuals most in need – i.e., those with SCI-related movement impairments and SCI-NP.
Universal length fluctuations of actin structures found in cells
Authors: Rosario Aldric , McInally Shane G. , Jelenkovic Predrag R. , Goode Bruce L. , Kondev Jane 
Published: July 2023

AbstractActin is a key cytoskeletal protein that forms filaments that bundle into linear structuresin vivo, which are involved in motility, signaling, and cell division. Despite the rapid turnover of individual actin monomers, these structures are often maintained at a specific length, which is important for their function. Length control is commonly attributed to length-dependent assembly or disassembly of the structure, whereby a stable length is achieved when the two opposing processes are balanced. Here we show that regardless of the nature of the length-dependent feedback, such “balance point” models predict a Gaussian distribution of lengths with a variance that is proportional to the steady state length. Contrary to this prediction, a reexamination of experimental measurements on the lengths of stereocilia, microvilli, actin cables, and filopodia reveals that the variance scales with the square of the steady state length. We propose a model in which the individual filaments in bundles undergo independent assembly dynamics, and the length of the bundle is set by the length of the longest filament. This model predicts a non-Gaussian distribution of bundle lengths with a variance that scales with the square of the steady state length. Our theory underscores the importance of crosslinking filaments into networks for size control of cytoskeleton structures.
Constructed languages are processed by the same brain mechanisms as natural languages
Authors: Malik-Moraleda Saima , Taliaferro Maya , Shannon Steve , Jhingan Niharika , Swords Sara , Peterson David J. , Frommer Paul , Okrand Marc , Sams Jessie , Cardwell Ramsey , Freeman Cassie , Fedorenko Evelina 
Published: July 2023

AbstractWhat constitutes a language? Natural languages share features with other domains: from math, to music, to gesture. However, the brain mechanisms that process linguistic input are highly specialized, showing little response to diverse non-linguistic tasks. Here, we examine constructed languages (conlangs) to ask whether they draw on the same neural mechanisms as natural languages, or whether they instead pattern with domains like math and programming languages. Using individual-subject fMRI analyses, we show that understanding conlangs recruits the same brain areas as natural language comprehension. This result holds for Esperanto (n=19 speakers) and four fictional conlangs (Klingon (n=10), Na’vi (n=9), High Valyrian (n=3), and Dothraki (n=3)). These findings suggest that conlangs and natural languages share critical features that allow them to draw on the same representations and computations, implemented in the left-lateralized network of brain areas. The features of conlangs that differentiate them from natural languages—including recent creation by a single individual, often for an esoteric purpose, the small number of speakers, and the fact that these languages are typically learned in adulthood— appear to not be consequential for the reliance on the same cognitive and neural mechanisms. We argue that the critical shared feature of conlangs and natural languages is that they are symbolic systems capable of expressing an open-ended range of meanings about our outer and inner worlds.Significance StatementWhat constitutes alanguagehas been of interest to diverse disciplines – from philosophy and linguistics to psychology, anthropology, and sociology. An empirical approach is to test whether the system in question recruits the brain system that processes natural languages. In spite of their similarity to natural languages, math and programming languages recruit a distinct brain system. Using fMRI, we test brain responses to stimuli not previously investigated—constructed languages (conlangs)—and find that they are processed by the same brain network as natural languages. Thus, an ability for a symbolic system to express diverse meanings about the world— but not the recency, manner, and purpose of its creation, or a large user base—is a defining characteristic of a language.
A new mechanism of posttranslational polyglutamylation regulates phase separation and signaling of the Wnt pathway protein Dishevelled
Authors: Kravec Marek , Šedo Ondrej , Nedvědová Jana , Micka Miroslav , Šulcová Marie , Zezula Nikodém , Gömöryová Kristína , Potěšil David , Ganji Ranjani Sri , Červenka Igor , Zdráhal Zbyněk , Harnoš Jakub , Tripsianes Konstantinos , Janke Carsten , Bařinka Cyril , Bryja Vítězslav 
Published: July 2023

AbstractPolyglutamylation is a reversible post-translational modification that is catalyzed by enzymes from the tubulin tyrosine ligase-like (TTLL) family. Here, we found that TTLL11 generates a previously unknown type of polyglutamylation initiated by the addition of a glutamate residue to the free C-terminal carboxyl group of a substrate protein. TTLL11 efficiently polyglutamylates the Wnt signaling protein Disheveled 3 (DVL3), thereby changing the interactome of DVL3, as well as it increases its capacity to get phosphorylated, to undergo liquid-liquid phase separation (LLPS), and to act in the non-canonical Wnt pathway. Both carboxyterminal polyglutamylation and the resulting reduction in LLPS capacity of DVL3 were reverted by the deglutamylating enzyme CCP6, which demonstrates the causal relationship between TTLL11-mediated polyglutamylation and LLPS. We thus discovered a novel type of posttranslational modification, which significantly broadens the range of proteins that can be modified by polyglutamylation and provides the first evidence that polyglutamylation can act as a regulator of protein LLPS.
Fragle: Universal ctDNA quantification using deep learning of fragmentomic profiles
Authors: Zhu Guanhua , Rahman Chowdhury Rafeed , Getty Victor , Odinokov Denis , Baruah Probhonjon , Carrié Hanaé , Lim Avril Joy , Guo Yu Amanda , Poh Zhong Wee , Sim Ngak Leng , Abdelmoneim Ahmed , Cai Yutong , Lakshmanan Lakshmi , Ho Danliang , Thangaraju Saranya , Poon Polly , Lau Yi Ting , Gan Anna , Ng Sarah , Koo Si-Lin , Chong Dawn Q. , Tay Brenda , Tan Tira J. , Yap Yoon Sim , Chok Aik Yong , Ng Matthew Chau Hsien , Tan Patrick , Tan Daniel , Wong Limsoon , Wong Pui Mun , Tan Iain Beehuat , Jacobsen Skanderup Anders 
Published: July 2023

AbstractQuantification of circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) levels in blood enables non-invasive surveillance of cancer progression. Fragle is an ultra-fast deep learning-based method for ctDNA quantification directly from cell-free DNA fragment length profiles. We developed Fragle using low-pass whole genome sequence (lpWGS) data from multiple cancer types and healthy control cohorts, demonstrating high accuracy, and improved lower limit of detection in independent cohorts as compared to existing tumor-naïve methods. Uniquely, Fragle is also compatible with targeted sequencing data, exhibiting high accuracy across both research and commercial targeted gene panels. We used this method to study longitudinal plasma samples from colorectal cancer patients, identifying strong concordance of ctDNA dynamics and treatment response. Furthermore, prediction of minimal residual disease in resected lung cancer patients demonstrated significant risk stratification beyond a tumor-naïve gene panel. Overall, Fragle is a versatile, fast, and accurate method for ctDNA quantification with potential for broad clinical utility.
Hindbrain rhombomere centers harbor a heterogenous population of dividing progenitors which rely on Notch-signaling
Authors: Belmonte-Mateos Carla , Meister Lydvina , Pujades Cristina 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACTTissue growth and morphogenesis are interrelated processes, whose tight coordination is essential for the production of different cell fates and the timely precise allocation of stem cell capacities. The zebrafish embryonic brainstem, the hindbrain, exemplifies such coupling between spatiotemporal cell diversity acquisition and tissue growth, as the neurogenic commitment is differentially distributed over time. Here, we combined cell lineage and in vivo imaging approaches to reveal the emergence of different specific cell population properties within the very same rhombomeres, and focused on the hindbrain rhombomere centers. We studied the molecular identity of rhombomere centers, and showed that they harbor different progenitor capacities that change over time. By clonal analysis, we revealed that cells within the rhombomeres decrease the proliferative capacity over time to remain mainly in G1-phase. Proliferating progenitors give rise to neurons by asymmetric and symmetric neurogenic divisions, while maintaining the pool of progenitors. The proliferative capacity of these cells differs from their neighbors, and they are delayed in the onset of Notch-activity. By functional studies we demonstrated that they rely on Notch3-signaling to be maintained as non-committed progenitors. In this study we show that cells in rhombomere centers might share steps of a similar program, despite the neurogenic asynchrony from the rhombomere counterparts, to ensure proper tissue growth.
The hippocampal theta oscillation may be generated by chimera dynamics
Authors: Masoliver Maria , Davidsen Jörn , Nicola Wilten 
Published: July 2023

ABSTRACTThe 8-12 Hz theta rhythm observed in hippocampal local field potentials of animals can be regarded as a “clock” that regulates the timing of spikes. While different interneuron sub-types synchronously phase lock to different phases for every theta cycle, the phase of pyramidal neurons’ spikes asynchronously vary in each theta cycle, depending on the animal’s position. On the other hand, pyramidal neurons tend to fire slightly faster than the theta oscillation in what is termed hippocampal phase precession. Chimera states are specific solutions to dynamical systems where synchrony and asynchrony coexist, similar to the hippocampal theta oscillation. Here, we test the hypothesis that the hippocampal theta oscillation emerges from chimera dynamics with computational modelling. We utilized multiple network topologies and sizes of Kuramoto oscillator networks that are known to collectively display chimera dynamics. We found that by changing the oscillators’ intrinsic frequency, the frequency ratio between the synchronized and unsynchronized oscillators can match the frequency ratio between the hippocampal theta oscillation (≈8 Hz) and phase precessing pyramidal neurons (≈9 Hz). The faster firing population of oscillators also displays theta-sequence-like behaviour and phase precession. Finally, we trained networks of spiking integrate-and-fire neurons to output a chimera state by using the Kuramoto-chimera system as a dynamical supervisor. We found that the firing times of subsets of individual neurons display phase precession. These results imply that the hippocampal theta oscillation may be a chimera state, further suggesting the importance of chimera states in neuroscience.
The importance of aesthetics in workplace environments: an investigation into employees’ satisfaction, feelings of safety and comfort in a university
Authors: Barton Georgina , Le Anh Hai 
Published: July 2023

Purpose
Employee satisfaction is critical in any workplace. Research suggests that the environment that people work in can contribute greatly to levels of satisfaction as well as productivity. Limited research exists, however, on how the aesthetics of a workplace impact both employee satisfaction and well-being. This paper aims to identify whether the aesthetics in a workplace environment at one university influences employee satisfaction and well-being.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper shares data from a survey that determined whether the workplace environment at one university in Queensland, Australia supports its workers’ job satisfaction and well-being. The survey was distributed amongst all staff at three campuses with a total of 73 usable responses.

Findings
Findings showed that there is a strong need for an aesthetically pleasing workplace and its positive impacts on employees. In addition, an aesthetically pleasing workplace was perceived to have a positive impact on the respondents’ likelihood of spending more time at work, hence, a greater sense of satisfaction. The respondents indicated a moderate level of satisfaction with the aesthetics of their workspace and environment including feeling safe.

Research limitations/implications
Implications show that further improvements could be attained in the workplace through the addition of natural lighting, plants and artwork. The employees also indicated they would like more control over the aesthetics of the work environment.

Originality/value
This research is original as it was not known whether aesthetics in the workplace influenced worker satisfaction and/or well-being.
Public preference of flood-resilient housing technologies in Nigeria: a case study of Kogi State
Authors: Ameh Hope , Lamond Jessica 
Published: July 2023

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to explore flood-prone area residents' preferences of flood-resilient housing technologies (HTs), to understand the factors influencing their choices. Flood-resilient HTs can reduce damage and disruption at a household level, particularly in areas where large-scale community schemes are not available or feasible. People’s perception of floods and their preferences of flood-resilient HTs are among many very important factors influencing the adoption of these technologies. Therefore, these perceptions and preferences must be well understood before implementation of these technologies can occur. However, studies on these two important factors are lacking in literature, particularly in the sub-Saharan African context.

Design/methodology/approach
Nigerian residents’ preferences of flood-resilient HTs were explored by focusing on five frequently flooded areas around the Niger and Benue river basins in Kogi State, Nigeria. Thirty-eight chat, video and voice call interviews were conducted with participants across five case study areas: Lokoja, Idah, Bassa, Ajaokuta and Koton Karifi. The interviews, informed through an illustrated brochure, covered residents’ experiences and perceptions of floods. This was done to gain an understanding of the factors influencing the choice of flood-resilient HTs adopted and those preferred.

Findings
This study confirms that residents in these five focus areas show similar characteristics to other floodplain residents as encapsulated in protection motivation theory. The flood-resilient HTs discussed in this study include flood-avoidance, flood-recoverability and flood-resistance strategies, as well as neighbourhood-scale approaches. Flood-resistance and flood-recoverability strategies rated highly in terms of suitability and envisaged efficiency in mitigating flooding in Kogi State. Although the measures were mostly agreed to be potentially effective and successful on a household scale, there were concerns as to flood mitigation on a neighbourhood scale.

Research limitations/implications
Pre-existing flood-resilient HTs were not extensively discussed in the literature review but were included to have a sense of the participants’ mitigation behaviour, as well as their potential to adopt (or not) new measures after adopting previous ones.

Originality/value
The results provide supporting evidence of the factors influencing the choice of and/or intention to adopt flood-resilient HTs, highlighted in literature. Results also contribute to literature by providing further insight into flood-resilient measures already adopted by residents, as well as their preferred HTs from the options presented. The implications of these findings and methodological considerations in this research are fully discussed in this paper.
Machine learning and manager selection: evidence from South Africa
Authors: Page Daniel , Seetharam Yudhvir , Auret Christo 
Published: July 2023

PurposeThis study investigates whether the skilled minority of active equity managers in emerging markets can be identified using a machine learning (ML) framework that incorporates a large set of performance characteristics.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses a cross-section of South African active equity managers from January 2002 to December 2021. The performance characteristics are analysed using ML models, with a particular focus on gradient boosters, and naïve selection techniques such as momentum and style alpha. The out-of-sample nominal, excess and risk-adjusted returns are evaluated, and precision tests are conducted to assess the accuracy of the performance predictions.FindingsA minority of active managers exhibit skill that results in generating alpha, even after accounting for fees, and show that ML models, particularly gradient boosters, are superior at identifying non-linearities. LightGBM (LG) achieves the highest out-of-sample nominal, excess and risk-adjusted return and proves to be the most accurate predictor of performance in precision tests. Naïve selection techniques, such as momentum and style alpha, outperform most ML models in forecasting emerging market active manager performance.Originality/valueThe authors contribute to the literature by demonstrating that a ML approach that incorporates a large set of performance characteristics can be used to identify skilled active equity managers in emerging markets. The findings suggest that both ML models and naïve selection techniques can be used to predict performance, but the former is more accurate in predicting ex ante performance. This study has practical implications for investment practitioners and academics interested in active asset manager performance in emerging markets.
Who or what is to blame? The role of attribution of responsibility in layoffs
Authors: Lilly Juliana , Wipawayangkool Kamphol , Virick Meghna , Roman Ronald 
Published: July 2023

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the effects of attribution of responsibility (AOR) for layoffs on the components of ethical decision-making. Internal, external and no-fault AOR were examined using the model of moral intensity to determine if placement of blame for the layoff influences ethical awareness, judgment and intent.

Design/methodology/approach
Surveys were collected from 397 students. The survey provided a scenario about a layoff situation involving an African-American woman and a Caucasian woman. Respondents then answered questions about moral intensity, moral judgment and moral intent concerning the layoff and identified the reasons they believed the layoff occurred. We tested our hypotheses using multiple regression analysis.

Findings
Subjects were more likely to make a moral judgment about the situation when layoffs were blamed on the company’s actions (external AOR) and less likely to make a moral judgment when the layoff decision was blamed on employee performance (internal AOR) or on economic factors beyond anyone’s control (no-fault AOR). Results also indicate that layoffs blamed on employee performance negatively moderate the relationship between moral judgment and moral intent.

Originality/value
Previous studies of layoff ethics have not examined the influence of AOR for layoffs using the model of moral intensity. Thus, this paper extends the current understanding of these concepts in ethical decision-making.
An adaptable end-to-end maintenance performance diagnostic framework
Authors: Ge Jingrui , Sigsgaard Kristoffer Vandrup , Andersen Bjørn Sørskot , Mortensen Niels Henrik , Agergaard Julie Krogh , Hansen Kasper Barslund 
Published: July 2023

PurposeThis paper proposes a progressive, multi-level framework for diagnosing maintenance performance: rapid performance health checks of key performance for different equipment groups and end-to-end process diagnostics to further locate potential performance issues. A question-based performance evaluation approach is introduced to support the selection and derivation of case-specific indicators based on diagnostic aspects.Design/methodology/approachThe case research method is used to develop the proposed framework. The generic parts of the framework are built on existing maintenance performance measurement theories through a literature review. In the case study, empirical maintenance data of 196 emergency shutdown valves (ESDVs) are collected over a two-year period to support the development and validation of the proposed approach.FindingsTo improve processes, companies need a separate performance measurement structure. This paper suggests a hierarchical model in four layers (objective, domain, aspect and performance measurement) to facilitate the selection and derivation of indicators, which could potentially reduce management complexity and help prioritize continuous performance improvement. Examples of new indicators are derived from a case study that includes 196 ESDVs at an offshore oil and gas production plant.Originality/valueMethodological approaches to deriving various performance indicators have rarely been addressed in the maintenance field. The proposed diagnostic framework provides a structured way to identify and locate process performance issues by creating indicators that can bridge generic evaluation aspects and maintenance data. The framework is highly adaptive as data availability functions are used as inputs to generate indicators instead of passively filtering out non-applicable existing indicators.