bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of Dark Triad personality traits in consumers’ counterfeit luxury consumption: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Koay Kian Yeik , Lok Yan Yii
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine the influence of the Dark Triad personality traits (Machiavellianism, narcissism and psychopathy) on consumers’ purchase intentions for counterfeit luxury products via the mediating effect of moral disengagement, drawing on moral disengagement theory. Furthermore, descriptive norms are tested as a moderators of the mediated relationships between the Dark Triad personality traits and purchase intentions via moral disengagement based on trait activation theory.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the hypotheses, a survey design is employed to gather primary data from 205 consumers. The final data are analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

This study finds that moral disengagement mediates the relationships between (1) Machiavellianism, (2) psychopathy and purchase intentions. Descriptive norms are found to moderate the indirect effect of moral disengagement between psychopathy and purchase intentions.

Originality/value

Dark Triad personality traits are linked to various unethical behaviours. However, no studies have explored how Dark Triad personality traits influence consumers’ purchase intentions for counterfeit luxury products. This study sheds light on how consumers with high Dark Triad personality traits are more likely to be morally disengaged, thereby leading to purchase intentions for counterfeit luxury products, drawing on moral disengagement theory. Furthermore, this study demonstrates descriptive norms as the boundary condition for the mediating relationship between Dark Triad personality traits and purchase intentions via moral disengagement, drawing on trait activation theory. The findings can be used to formulate better strategies to counteract the phenomenon of counterfeit luxury consumption.
Unlearning the past, relearning for tomorrow — a Gen Z perspective
Authors: S. Raksithaa
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the importance of Generation Z equipping organizational resilience through unlearning and relearning workplace behaviors. Through this, the paper will address how such adaptive strategies foster Gen Z employees’ ability to stay fresh and effective under dynamic and ever-changing environments and boost innovation and overall workplace productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers the author’s viewpoint based on their experience in an organization-based setup and its impact on Gen Zers behavior; unlearn and relearn the workplace-based behavior.

Findings

The resilience of Gen Z is made possible through the ability of the generation to unlearn outdated practices and embrace continuous learning in their life. Such behavior would enhance organizational success by increasing adaptability, engagement, and innovation, especially in workplaces.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on how Generation Z could leverage unlearning and relearning to create organizational resilience. This study bridges the gap between the studies concerning generational behavioral patterns and, thus, brings to light the concept of continuous behavioral adaptation in the modern workplace.
ⵜⴰⵖⵓⵔⴰⵔⵜ, Gender, Ethnicity and Desertification in Aoufous, Morocco
Authors: Martin Thomas , Walsh Michelle , Davies Hayon Kaya , Ait Mous Fadma , Oujana Fatima , Bourezi Fatima , Alhiane Kheira , Najm Zahra , Oulkhalef Aicha , Oujana Nezha , Ouchtal Zahra , Sammouni Mohamed , Hmmatti Kheira , Bango Khadija , Hajhouj Khadija , Elgdou Asma , Azzawi Khadija
Published: December 2024

Morocco sits at the heart of the MENA (Middle East & Africa) region and is experiencing its driest decades in a millennium with more droughts and periods of intense heat than ever before (Jacques 2023: 1).
Through this publication, ⵜⴰⵖⵓⵔⴰⵔⵜ, Gender, Ethnicity and Desertification in Aoufous, Morocco, the authors foreground empowering images taken by the Amazigh women and girls of Aoufous to help tell the story of their experiences and to illustrate the far-reaching consequences of climate change on their daily lives.
The publication calls on officials to investigate the situation, and to support the women. Reviving the local co-operative workplace according to state standards will allow the women to work and benefit from the land they have lived in all this time. This is crucial to their well-being and sustaining their way of life.
Navigating sociopolitical waters: exploring the influence of key factors on global supply base concentration
Authors: Paulraj Antony , Datar Aneesh , Nakamura Azusa , Seepana Chandrasekararao
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Various economic, strategic and sociopolitical factors drive the decisions related to the location of global supply chain partners. Yet, research on how sociopolitical factors affect these decisions is not that prevalent. We contribute to this line of research by evaluating the changes in global supply base concentration accounted for by three key sociopolitical factors – populism, state fragility and political constraints – that magnify or attenuate the effects of institutional risks, uncertainties and volatility.

Design/methodology/approach

Apart from hypothesizing the negative effects of populism and state fragility, political constraints are conjectured to significantly attenuate these negative effects. The proposed hypotheses were motivated using the tenets of institutional economics theory and tested using a comprehensive dataset compiled from six widely used secondary data sources. The panel data spanning 2003–2018 focused on a sample of global US-listed companies with worldwide suppliers.

Findings

Our results supported three of the four hypotheses. Specifically, the direct effects of populism and state fragility were found to be significant, suggesting that they reduced the number of suppliers in the country. However, political constraints did not moderate the effect of populism on global supply base concentration, while they negatively moderated the effect of the state fragility index. This result showcases the overpowering effect of populism on a country’s market environment.

Originality/value

Supply chain scholars resoundingly acknowledge the need for more research on the effect of broader sociopolitical factors on global supply chain management. Responding to this call, we evaluate the direct and contingent effects of populism, state fragility and political constraints on global supply base concentration. Our choice of these factors was based on their representation of most of the critical institutional environments prevalent in various countries. One surprising result we found was that populism was found to be pervasive even in countries with strong checks and balances, suggesting its paramount importance to practicing management. Overall, by unraveling the interesting effects of these multidimensional sociopolitical factors, our study makes a valuable contribution to not only theory but also practice.
The impact of manager conservatism on innovation and capital expenditures: the role of the crisis caused by the covid-19 outbreak
Authors: Arianpoor Arash , Toorchi Mahsa
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The present study aims to investigate the impact of manager conservatism on innovation and capital expenditures especially the moderating role of the crisis caused by the COVID-19 outbreak for companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE).

Design/methodology/approach

The present study investigated information about 178 companies in 2014–2022. In this study, the CEO’s signature was a psychological proxy of conservatism. Modified multiple regression analysis was used to investigate the moderating role of COVID-19. The present study also used the Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) to address endogeneity issues.

Findings

The results showed that manager conservatism has a positive and significant effect on capital expenditures, while manager conservatism negatively impacts firm innovation. In addition, COVID-19 significantly strengthens the impact of manager conservatism on capital expenditures and firm innovation. Hypothesis testing based on robustness checks confirmed these results.

Originality/value

This study aims to investigate the impact of manager conservatism, as a personality trait, on capital expenditures and innovation. These aspects have not been thoroughly explored in the existing literature. Additionally, it is important to consider the perceived threat of COVID-19, known to have a greater effect on conservatives. This study seeks to examine the interactive role of manager conservatism and COVID-19 on investment in capital expenditures and innovation. The present findings will not only benefit managers and policymakers in both developing and developed countries but will also provide valuable insights into decision-making processes related to capital expenditures and innovation during critical conditions such as the COVID-19 outbreak.
Art of developing a vision for integrated healthcare and social services: an interview study with stakeholders in Sweden
Authors: Strömqvist Bååthe Karin , Aytar Osman , von Thiele Schwarz Ulrica , Arkkukangas Marina
Published: December 2024

Purpose

To gain a deeper understanding of the development of a joint vision for Close Care, its obstacles and opportunities, in the region of Sörmland based on national health and social services reforms.

Design/methodology/approach

Seven semi-structured interviews were conducted with thirteen stakeholders. Documentation from the process was used to enhance the findings. A qualitative content analysis was performed.

Findings

Stakeholders described Close Care as entailing “person centeredness, cooperation, and resource sharing” but found it “too abstract”. Participation in developing the vision varied, with experiences of “external pressure” and low “readiness for organisational change”. Views on a regional vision’s “relevance and usability” differed. Participants highlighted several opportunities for the Close Care vision, such as: “a stepping-stone for implementation”, “harmonises with other health care visions” and “forming a cross municipal and regional network”. They also noted obstacles like “symbolic alienation”, “cognitive complexity”, “short-term economic reality” and “uncertainty around implementation”.

Practical implications

Opportunities and obstacles for the vision of Close Care can inform complex healthcare reforms that require stakeholder cooperation.

Social implications

Understanding Close Care may enable health system stakeholders to more effectively cooperate around the citizens’ needs.

Originality/value

Research on common ground has mainly focused on national or international policy levels and individual hospitals, professionals or patients. This study offers insights on regional and municipal cooperation in health care driven by a common vision.
AI adoption: a bridge or a barrier? The moderating role of organizational support in the path toward employee well-being
Authors: Soomro Sanam , Fan Mingyue , Sohu Jan Muhammad , Soomro Safia , Shaikh Sonia Najam
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess how managerial capability affects artificial intelligence (AI) adoption and employee well-being now in a dynamic context of organizational change. This study investigated the role that managerial capability and organizational support play in facilitating successful AI technology implementation within organizations. The study seeks to provide an integrated perspective on how organizations can help mitigate the effects of AI anxiety and improve the well-being of employees.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey questionnaire was administered to collect data from 324 employees and managers working in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) located in Pakistan. Partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) was employed using Smart PLS version 4.1.0.3 to analyze the relationships between the study variables.

Findings

The findings of the study show that AI anxiety can significantly impact employee well-being. However, the relationship was moderated by organizational support. When organizational support was high, the effects of AI anxiety decline on employee well-being.

Originality/value

This study offers three important implications; it adds to our understanding regarding AI adoption and its effect on employee well-being by addressing how managerial interventions may facilitate the smooth integration of AI technology and examining the moderating effect that organizational support might have over the association between anxiety and employee well-being. Additionally, we have offered a nuanced view of the potential impact of AI adoption on employees and offered practical recommendations for organizations to undertake to address AI anxiety and promote employee well-being during AI implementation.
Advanced trading strategies based on the sobering-up effect
Authors: Ho Chun-Ching , Jang Woan-yuh
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study investigates analysts’ sobering-up effect on future stock returns and further verifies whether analysts’ familiarity with the forecasted firms and market sentiment affect the relationship between the magnitude of the sobering-up effect on analysts’ earnings forecasts and long-term future stock performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using stocks listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange (TWSE) and the Taipei Exchange (TPEx) from 2000 to 2021, we propose a trading sobering-up strategy which involves taking a long position in the portfolio with a smaller magnitude of the sobering-up effect and a short position in the portfolio with a greater magnitude of the sobering-up effect.

Findings

We find that an advanced trading strategy which involves taking a long (short) position in the portfolio with a smaller (greater) magnitude of sobering-up effect during the bullish market period, is superior to the sobering-up trading strategy as well as the sobering-up plus familiarity trading strategy and can generate a significantly positive long-term abnormal stock return.

Originality/value

This study explores the dynamic psychological factors behind the magnitude of the sobering-up effect on analysts’ earnings forecasts’ influences. Employing familiarity and market sentiment verify the relationship between the magnitude of the sobering-up effect on analysts’ earnings forecasts and future stock returns. The results give a reference for investors when investing and offer the potential investors significant trading gains.
A holistic review of customer experience research: topic modelling using BERTopic
Authors: Mishra Manit
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study consolidates the current state of knowledge in customer experience (CX) research by examining literature published over last 20 years (2003–2022). The purpose is to create a holistic snapshot through synthesis of extant CX research; and thereafter, leverage the snapshot to generate directions for future inquiry.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses systematic literature review (SLR) using SPAR-4-SLR protocol to generate a set of 277 articles. We follow it up with scientometric analysis techniques of bibliographic coupling and betweenness centrality measurement. Finally, to extract topics from the full-text content of sampled articles, we carry out topic modelling using BERTopic.

Findings

The study unearths following insights: (1) the predominant underlying topics in extant CX research are: service experience, store brand marketing, mall and online shopping, fun and luxury marketing, brand equity and loyalty artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR); (2) bibliographic coupling suggests existence of six clusters in CX research. The study also showcases the nucleus of CX research, flagship research, major publication outlets and representative studies for each extracted topic.

Research limitations/implications

The paper introduces BERTopic to marketing scholars as a novel method of executing topic modelling and thereby, unearthing latent insights.

Originality/value

The study expands the body of knowledge on CX by applying three complementary analytical approaches: SLR, scientometric analysis and topic modelling using BERTopic.
Don’t overdo it with blockchain – understanding the impact of blockchain on users’ security perception
Authors: Jha Abhishek Kumar , Kumar Saurabh , Jain Aarushi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Blockchain technology has been labeled as the most disruptive technological innovation of the current decade due to its impact on almost every major industry. Based on privacy calculus theory and prior adoption literature on emerging technologies, this research investigates the impact of blockchain technology in the consumer technology segment. It elaborated on the mechanism through which blockchain technology influences users’ willingness to share information with technology products enabled by blockchain.

Design/methodology/approach

Taking a heterogeneous pool of users, this study conducted multiple experiments with the application of blockchain (vs. regular database) technology to high (vs. low) sensitive data to study the impact of blockchain perception on users’ information-sharing tendencies.

Findings

Through a mediated moderation analysis, the result shows that the use of blockchain technology enhances the sense of security among users. However, the impact of this heightened sense of security only develops a higher willingness to share information when the data is highly sensitive.

Practical implications

The research reflects on the perception of blockchain technology and the leading impact on willingness to share information with firms. This could be a critical criterion for determining investment in blockchain technologies for consumer products, particularly based on the sensitivity of the data the consumer is sharing.

Originality/value

This research focuses on the perception of blockchain technology among consumers and its impact on consumers’ decision-making related to their data sharing. People have a higher sense of safety when it comes to blockchain-enabled products. However, we find that it would not be the same for all contexts, and the sensitivity of the data collected would have an impact on this relationship and consumers’ data-sharing decisions.
Fingolimod Inhibits C6 Rat Glioma Proliferation and Migration, Induces Sub‐G1 Cell Cycle Arrest, Mitochondrial and Extrinsic Apoptosis In Vitro and Reduces Tumour Growth In Vivo
Authors: Pournajaf Safura , Afsordeh Nastaran , Bayat Hadi , Pourgholami Mohammad Hossein
Published: December 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), the most prevalent brain tumour, is universally fatal. GBM cells exhibit cell cycle disruption and treatment resistance, remarking an urgent need for newer treatments. Fingolimod, a sphingosine‐1‐phosphate receptor modulator, has been reported to have anti‐cancer effects. This study investigated the therapeutic potentials of fingolimod in rat C6 cells and pursued the involved mechanism(s). Cell survival, proliferation, migration, and morphology of fingolimod‐treated C6 cells were evaluated using MTT, soft‐agar colony formation, wound‐healing, and Giemsa staining assays. Apoptosis was investigated through acridine orange/ethidium bromide (AO/EB) and annexin V staining, and flow cytometry analysed the cell cycle. Quantitative reverse transcription PCR and western blotting were used to evaluate gene and protein expressions. An intracranial C6 rat model validated the anti‐tumour effect of fingolimod. Fingolimod significantly reduced the survival and colonies of the C6 cells and delayed their gap closure. Cell shrinkage coupled with AO/EB and PI staining of the fingolimod‐treated cells indicated apoptosis, subsequently confirmed by measuring the expression levels of the candidate genes involved in apoptosis and cell cycle, such as Bax/Bcl2, P53, Cytochrome C and Caspases 9/3, Fas, Fadd, Tnfrsf1a, Cdkn1a, and Ccnd1, at RNA and protein levels, indicating both extrinsic and mitochondrial apoptosis and cell cycle arrest at sub‐G1 phase in fingolimod‐treated cells. Furthermore, treating rats bearing intracranial C6 tumours with fingolimod led to significant suppression of intracranial tumour growth. Based on our findings, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis contribute to fingolimod antitumor effects.
Levator Ani Deficiency and Pelvic Floor Dysfunction 1 Year Postpartum: A Prospective Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Jansson Markus Harry , Brismar Wendel Sophia , Rotstein Emilia
Published: December 2024

Objective

First, to assess whether levator ani deficiency (LAD) is associated with pelvic floor dysfunction 1 year postpartum, including urinary, vaginal and bowel symptoms; and second, to explore at what cut‐off of LAD score such pelvic floor dysfunction arises.

Design

Nested case–control study.

Setting

Örebro University Hospital, Örebro, Sweden.

Population or Sample

Primiparous women 1 year after vaginal birth.

Methods

Three‐dimensional endovaginal ultrasound assessment of the levator ani muscle; LAD score based on this ultrasound, and validated questions about pelvic floor dysfunction. Logistic regression models were used.

Main Outcome Measures

Symptoms of pelvic floor dysfunction associated with LAD.

Results

Altogether 190 women were included, 103 of whom were symptomatic cases and 87 asymptomatic controls. 53% in the case group, and 58% in the control group had a LAD score of 0. A greater LAD score was significantly associated with urinary incontinence (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.11, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.22) and vaginal laxity (aOR 1.14, 95% CI 1.03–1.25). The risk of urinary incontinence was increased when the LAD cut‐off score was set between ≥ 1 point and ≥ 4 points. The risk of vaginal laxity was increased when the cut‐off was set between ≥ 8 and ≥ 14 points.

Conclusions

LAD was associated with both urinary incontinence and vaginal laxity. The risk of urinary incontinence increased already with minor LAD and defects of the most medial levator ani muscle portions normally supporting the midurethra may explain this increase.
Impact of ABCB1 single‐nucleotide variants on early, extremely severe neutropenia induced by paclitaxel/nanoparticle albumin‐bound paclitaxel in patients with gastric cancer
Authors: Maeda Akimitsu , Matsuo Keitaro , Ando Hitoshi , Morishige Jun‐ichi , Muro Kei , Uchida Kosaku , Tajika Masahiro
Published: December 2024

Aims

Paclitaxel and nanoparticle albumin‐bound (nab)‐paclitaxel can cause early, extremely severe neutropenia, occasionally leading to fatal outcomes. As paclitaxel is a substrate of P‐glycoprotein, this study aimed to investigate the impact of ABCB1 single‐nucleotide variants, which encode P‐glycoprotein, on early, extremely severe neutropenia in patients receiving paclitaxel/nab‐paclitaxel plus ramucirumab as second‐line therapy for unresectable advanced/recurrent gastric cancer.

Methods

We analysed patients treated at Aichi Cancer Center Hospital from January 2018 to August 2023, with DNA samples stored in the Cancer BioBank Aichi. The impact of ABCB1 variants T1236C (rs1128503), G2677T/A (rs2032582) and C3435T (rs1045642) on early, extremely severe neutropenia was examined. Neutropenia was defined as a decline in neutrophil count to <100/μL within 28 days of therapy initiation. Firth's logistic regression evaluated the association between the ABCB1 C3435T (rs1045642) TT genotype and early, extremely severe neutropenia, adjusted for age, sex, baseline neutrophil count, and serum albumin and aspartate aminotransferase levels.

Results

Of the 203 eligible patients, 5 (2%) experienced neutropenia with neutrophil counts of <100/μL. The odds ratio for neutrophil counts of <100/μL was 28.1 (95% confidence interval 2.8–283.3) in patients with the ABCB1 C3435T (rs1045642) TT genotype.

Conclusion

The ABCB1 C3435T (rs1045642) TT genotype was significantly associated with early, extremely severe neutropenia in patients receiving paclitaxel/nab‐paclitaxel. Evaluating this genotype status may help predict those at increased risk for early, extremely severe neutropenia.
Hepatitis E virus infection after CAR T‐cell treatment: An important complication in patients already facing significant health challenges
Authors: Mallet Vincent , Torres Harrys A.
Published: December 2024

Cancer patients with haematological malignancies are at risk for chronic hepatitis E virus infection following chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell therapy. Strong clinical suspicion is essential for the early diagnosis and prompt treatment of this difficult‐to‐treat type of viral hepatitis.

Commentary on: Schwarz et al. Chronic hepatitis E in a patient after CAR‐T cell treatment for diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma and rapid progression towards decompensated liver cirrhosis. Br J Haematol 2024 (Online ahead of print). doi: 10.1111/bjh.19892.
Optimizing China's economic performance through government hierarchy restructuring
Authors: Ain Qurat ul
Published: December 2024

China's Province‐managing‐county (PMC) reform policy aims to mitigate fiscal stress and augment expenditure autonomy for county governments by eradicating the subordinate fiscal relationship between prefectures and counties. The research augments the time‐varying difference‐in‐difference technique, utilizing a longitudinal dataset at the county level to examine the incentive effects of this reform on economic performance and local government policy decision. The empirical investigation divulges that the local fiscal incentives introduced by this reform through alleviating fiscal stress and providing expenditure autonomy significantly impact economic performance and influence local government policy decisions. The outcomes become more noticeable in economically developed regions and those characterized by enhanced institutional quality and reduced migration barriers. Additionally, the reform encourages counties to adopt a more proactive fiscal policy characterized by increased capital expenditure to promote economic performance while reducing expenditures on social security subsidies and administrative costs affirming that economic performance targets of county governments garbles the composition of public expenditure. These results support positing that a flattened hierarchical structure ameliorates delays in fiscal matters and facilitates communication across various levels of government in the context of improved institutional quality and reduced migration barriers however at the expense of reduced public expenditures. The findings additionally signifies that PMC policy reform become more incentivized in the political competition for economic performance.
Profiling Inter‐Specific and Inter‐Estuarine Variation in Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances Across Two Recreational Fishing Havens
Authors: Taylor Matthew D. , Hughes Julian M. , Murphy Jeff , Ochwada‐Doyle Faith A.
Published: December 2024

Contamination of estuaries with per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), such as perfluorooctane sulfonate (PFOS), may impact recreational fishers who consume their catch. However, the presence and concentration of PFAS across commonly harvested estuarine taxa is rarely quantified. We used data from a state‐wide survey of recreational fishers to design and conduct a sampling program for assessing PFAS contamination across two recreational fishing havens (Lake Macquarie and Botany Bay, New South Wales, Australia). Perfluorodecanoic acid (PFDA) and PFOS were the primary contaminants in edible tissues of recreationally harvested species, and concentrations were highly variable. In Lake Macquarie, all samples were below screening criteria, as were invertebrates in both estuaries. In Botany Bay, some fish exceeded screening criteria, but the most frequently harvested recreational species had the lowest concentrations of all fish across both estuaries. Ecological factors likely contributed to substantial variation in PFAS accumulation levels among different recreational species. Recreational fisheries surveys provide a solid foundation to frame investigations of exposure risk and support the development of spatially tailored dietary advice.
Prediction of intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA levels in patients with resolved hepatitis B virus infection: Impact of serum antibody to hepatitis B core antigen titers
Authors: Bae Sung Kwan , Arita Junichi , Akamatsu Nobuhisa , Ichida Akihiko , Nishioka Yujiro , Miyata Akinori , Kawahara Takuya , Inagaki Yoshinori , Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Kaneko Junichi , Tamura Sumihito , Tanaka Yasuhito , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Moriya Kyoji , Hasegawa Kiyoshi
Published: December 2024

Aim

The correlation between intrahepatic covalently closed circular DNA (cccDNA) levels and serum hepatitis B virus (HBV) markers in patients with resolved HBV infection (hepatitis B surface antigen [HBsAg]‐negative and antibody to hepatitis B core antigen [anti‐HBc]‐positive) is unclear. We therefore examined the utility of anti‐HBc titers as a surrogate marker of intrahepatic cccDNA levels in patients with resolved HBV infections.

Methods

Among 1005 patients who underwent hepatectomy between 2010 and 2018, a retrospective review was performed in 114 patients (76 with resolved HBV infection and 38 HBsAg‐positive) with frozen specimens of the background liver. Clinical, biochemical, and virological data, including intrahepatic cccDNA levels, were retrospectively evaluated. Intrahepatic cccDNA levels were measured using droplet digital polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Intrahepatic cccDNA levels positively correlated with serum HBsAg levels (r = 0.609, p < 0.001) and anti‐HBc titers (r = 0.542, p < 0.001). An intrahepatic cccDNA level of 22.2 copies/μg was the optimal cut‐off for HBsAg positivity, with a sensitivity of 86.8% and specificity of 89.5%. Of the 76 cases with resolved HBV infection, 8 had high levels of intrahepatic cccDNA (≥22.2 copies/μg). Multivariate analyses showed that anti‐HBc ≥ 11.0 sample/cut‐off (S/CO) was an independent risk factor for high intrahepatic cccDNA levels (odds ratio, 12.6; 95% confidence interval, 2.4–66.156; P = 0.003).

Conclusions

Anti‐HBc titers were positively correlated with intrahepatic cccDNA levels. Even in patients with resolved HBV infection, anti‐HBc ≥ 11.0 S/CO was considered to indicate high intrahepatic cccDNA levels, comparable to those in HBsAg‐positive cases. In this group, careful monitoring is required during immunosuppressive therapy to prevent HBV reactivation.
Ultra‐processed food consumption and overweight in children, adolescents and young adults: Long‐term data from the Kiel Obesity Prevention Study (KOPS)
Authors: Fedde Svenja , Stolte Annalena , Plachta‐Danielzik Sandra , Müller Manfred James , Bosy‐Westphal Anja
Published: December 2024

Objective

The aim was to assess ultra‐processed food (UPF) consumption, its impact on overweight and its association with weight trends from childhood and adolescence to young adulthood.

Methods

Long‐term UPF consumption (13.3 years) by NOVA was analysed (children/adolescents and adults, n = 182) in the Kiel Obesity Prevention Study (KOPS, n = 10 750).

Results

In children/adolescents (13.1 ± 1.9 years), a UPF‐based dietary pattern showed an inverse association with BMI‐SDS and fat mass index (males: r = −0.301, p = 0.01; r = −0.376, p = 0.001; females: r = −0.315, p < 0.001; r = −0.282, p = 0.003). Longitudinal analysis indicated that UPF consumption in childhood and adolescence was correlated with UPF consumption in adulthood among females (r = 0.272; p = 0.004) but not among males. In young adults (26.7 ± 2.2 years), UPF consumption accounted for nearly 50% of daily energy intake and was higher with overweight compared to normal weight and in incident overweight compared to persistent normal weight (both p < 0.05). High UPF consumption was associated with markers of poor diet quality (lower intake of fibre, higher intake of salt and energy‐dense food, all p < 0.05).

Conclusions

High UPF consumption in young adults was associated with both prevalence and incidence of overweight from childhood and adolescence to adulthood.
Variability and clinical anatomy of the superior gluteal nerve—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tempski Jonasz , Kotlarek Aneta , Pękala Jakub , Fibiger Grzegorz , Krager Eirik , Łazarz Dominik , Rosa Mateusz , Glądys Kinga , Walocha Jerzy A. , Pękala Przemysław
Published: December 2024

The superior gluteal nerve (SGN) is a mixed nerve of the sacral plexus that arises from the posterior divisions of the L4, L5, and S1 nerve roots. Its motor branch plays a crucial role in innervation of hip muscles, which allows for physiological gait or walk‐pattern. As for its sensory branch, it provides innervation for the hip joint capsule, especially its superior part. The understanding of this nerve is crucial as it may be injured during many operations involving mostly pelvic surgery, both arthroscopic and open procedures. The risk of injury is especially high during total hip arthroplasty (THA). These lesions often result in the presentation of major walk‐pattern abnormalities. The most classical and commonly known would be the Trendelenburg sign, which presents with pelvic instability characterized by having the patient standing on one leg whereby the pelvis on the contralateral side will be dropping, resulting in a positive sign. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to obtain all relevant data on SGN and its variations, in order to emphasize its anatomical, physiological, as well as clinical implications. A large‐scale search was conducted in all major databases (PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, Google Scholar, and Web of Science) in order to determine and pool all available and relevant SGN data. No restrictions were applied to date or language. The data collection was categorized by prevalence, branching, patterns, course, origin, and distance from anatomical landmarks. A total of 41 studies (n = 869 hemipelves) were included in our analysis. The most common branching pattern of SGN was a spray pattern, 70.4% (95% CI: 54.4–96.8; p < 0.001) of the general population. We found that the closest branch to the greater trochanter of the femur and concurrently the most at risk during surgery was a muscular branch to gluteus minimus muscle. As the trend of pelvic surgeries, especially THA continues to rise, SGN lesions are now more than ever at risk. Yet to the authors' knowledge, this does not seem to be reflected in the current literature thereby making this the first meta‐analysis concerning this important anatomical structure. The authors believe it is paramount for surgeons, especially in the orthopedic specialty, to thoroughly understand the SGN with its anatomical variability and clinical tie‐ins.
Osteohistological signal from the smallest known phytosaur femur reveals slow growth and new insights into the evolution of growth in Archosauria
Authors: Goldsmith Erika R. , Barta Daniel E. , Kligman Ben T. , Nesbitt Sterling J. , Marsh Adam D. , Parker William G. , Stocker Michelle R.
Published: December 2024

Fossils of embryonic and hatchling individuals can provide invaluable insight into the evolution of prenatal morphologies, heterochronies, and allometric trajectories within Archosauria but are exceptionally rare in the Triassic fossil record, obscuring a critical aspect of archosaurian biology during their evolutionary origins. Microvertebrate sampling at a single bonebed in the Upper Triassic Chinle Formation within Petrified Forest National Park has yielded diminutive archosauriform femora (PEFO 45274, PEFO 45199) with estimated and measured femoral lengths of ~31 mm and ~ 37 mm, respectively. These new specimens provide the unique opportunity to assess the preservation, body size, and growth dynamics of skeletally immature archosauriforms in North America and compare the growth dynamics of archosauromorphs within an evolutionary and ontogenetic context. We assign PEFO 45199 and PEFO 45274 to Phytosauria (Archosauriformes) based on their strongly sigmoidal shape in lateral view, the presence of proximal anterolateral and posteromedial tubera, the absence of an anteromedial tuber of the proximal end, a teardrop‐shaped proximal outline, and a fourth trochanter that is not confluent with the proximal head. Osteohistological analyses of PEFO 45274 reveal a cortex comprising low vascularity, parallel‐fibered bone composed of primary osteons that lacks a hatching line and any lines of arrested growth. We interpret PEFO 45274 as a slow‐growing, post‐hatching individual of less than 1 year of age. Surprisingly, osteohistology of some larger phytosaur femora implies faster growth rates in comparison to PEFO 45274 based on the occasional presence of woven bone and overall higher degrees of vascular density, suggesting the ontogenetic shift from rapid‐to‐slow growth rates might not occur simply or uniformly as expected in Phytosauria and that non‐archosaurian archosauriforms may exhibit size‐dependent histological characteristics. This study highlights the importance of including osteohistology from multiple body sizes to investigate non‐archosaurian archosauriform ancestral growth rates given the phylogenetic position of phytosaurs near the divergence of Archosauria.
Original Dualisms Labor Law and Casual Work in Portugal and Romania (1920s–1960s)
Authors: Grama Adrian
Published: December 2024

This article argues that any historical explanation of the emergence of dualism in the labor market should take labor law seriously for two intertwined reasons: first, because before there could be a dualism of insiders and outsiders in the market, there was an original dualism inscribed in statutory legislation covering employment contracts; and second because before there could be a neat distinction between a primary and a secondary sector, there was a prevailing legal hierarchy that rewarded the stability of the most stable employees while concomitantly rescinding protection from casual workers. The article asks how these original dualisms were overcome during the better half of the twentieth century, and what mechanisms might explain the eventual collapse of the legal distinctions between various types of employees and the differential distribution of rights that came with it. Empirically, the article draws comparatively on the social and legal history of Portugal and Romania from the 1920s to the 1960s to propose a historically rich and conceptually fresh interpretation of the emergence of “standard employment” on the two peripheries of Europe.
Hydrogen Sulphide: A Key Player in Plant Development and Stress Resilience
Authors: Jaiswal Saumya , Singh Surendra Pratap , Singh Samiksha , Gupta Ravi , Tripathi Durgesh Kumar , Corpas Francisco J. , Singh Vijay Pratap
Published: December 2024

Based on the research conducted so far, hydrogen sulphide (H2S) plays a crucial role in the development and stress resilience of plants. H2S, which acts as a signalling molecule, responds to different stresses such as heavy metals, drought, and salinity, and it regulates various aspects of plant growth and development including seed germination, root development, stomatal movement, flowering, and fruit ripening. Additionally, H2S is involved in mediating legume‐Rhizobium symbiosis signalling. It modulates plant responses to external environmental stimuli by interacting with other signalling molecules like phytohormones, nitric oxide, and reactive oxygen species. Furthermore, H2S exerts these regulations since it can modify protein functions through a reversible thiol‐based oxidative posttranslational modification called persulfidation, particularly in stress response and developmental processes. As a result, H2S is recognised as an important emerging signalling molecule with multiple roles in plants. Research in this field holds promise for engineering stress tolerance in crops and may lead to potential biotechnological applications in agriculture and environmental management.
Turkishness and Social Boundaries: Navigating Identity and Exclusion in the Social Relations Between the Local Community and Syrian Refugees in Ankara, Turkey
Authors: Cevik Haci
Published: December 2024

This study examines the widespread impact of Turkishness, a concept ingrained since the establishment of the Republic, on political and daily interactions, and how it cultivates persistent discrimination against Syrian refugees. This study conceptualizes Turkishness not as an ideology but as a construct influenced by national identity and historical developments. The study employs a qualitative methodology, including comprehensive interviews. The study involved 20 Syrian refugees and 21 local residents from various socioeconomic areas of Ankara. The results, derived from a restricted qualitative sample, provide insights into the influence of historical narratives and ethnic symbols on identity formation among Syrian refugees and local inhabitants. The study shows that nationalism and political ideologies have a significant impact on these encounters and class and demographic disparities exacerbate these dynamics. The interviews demonstrate that historical legacies, societal biases and experiences of exclusion significantly influence the identities of both refugees and the local population.
Lipaemic plasma: An objective non‐invasive photometric method to classify plasma turbidity and its association with red cell haemolysis
Authors: de Laleijne‐Liefting Lara A. E. , Bontekoe Ido J. , Lagerberg Johan W. , Klei Thomas R. L.
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives

Plasma components are visually inspected, and non‐transparent, turbid units are rejected for transfusion and fractionation. Additionally, in case a plasma component is deemed lipaemic, there is conflicting data on the accompanying red cell concentrate (RCC) in vitro quality. As visual inspection of plasma turbidity is a subjective method, we aimed to devise an objective measurement using a quick, non‐invasive, table‐top spectrophotometry‐based method. Using this method, the correlation between spectrophotometric data and its predictive value on haemolysis of the accompanying RCC during storage was assessed.

Materials and Methods

A total of 365 plasma units were visually inspected for turbidity and analysed for light reflection parameters (L*, a* and b*) and triglyceride (TG) levels. Leukoreduced RCCs in saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol (SAGM), prepared from the accompanying lipaemic whole blood, were stored for up to 6 weeks and analysed for quality parameters.

Results

The light reflection L* value was the most discriminating between clear and turbid/lipaemic plasma. Also, a correlation was found between TG levels and L* values (R2 = 0.703). Plasma with TG ≥ 2.5 mmol/L showed an L* value >50 with >90% specificity and sensitivity. RCC from donations with a plasma L* value ≥68 showed significantly higher haemolysis levels (p < 0.05) during storage.

Conclusion

The non‐invasive photometric analysis of plasma turbidity correlated both with visual inspection and plasma TG levels. Measurement of L* values of plasma may be helpful in identifying donations with high TG levels and higher risk for increased haemolysis during RCC storage.
ChREBP-mediated up-regulation of Them1 coordinates thermogenesis with glycolysis and lipogenesis in response to chronic stress
Authors: Xu Xu , Mendoza Arturo , Krumm Christopher S. , Su Shi , Acuña Mariana , Bare Curtis J. , Holman Corey D. , Cortopassi Marissa , Nicholls Hayley T. , Dartigue Vincent , Hollenberg Anthony N. , Lee Ann-Hwee , Hagen Susan J. , Cohen David E.
Published: December 2024

Activation of thermogenic brown adipose tissue (BAT) and inducible beige adipose tissue (BeAT) is triggered by environmental or metabolic stimuli, including cold ambient temperatures and nutrient stress. Thioesterase superfamily member 1 (Them1), a long-chain fatty acyl-CoA thioesterase that is enriched in BAT, suppresses acute cold-induced thermogenesis. Here, we demonstrate that
Them1
expression was induced in BAT and BeAT by the carbohydrate response element binding protein (ChREBP) in response to chronic cold exposure or to the activation of the integrated stress response (ISR) by nutrient excess. Under either condition, Them1 suppressed energy expenditure. Consequently, mice lacking Them1 in BAT and BeAT exhibited resistance to obesity and glucose intolerance induced by feeding with a high-fat diet. During chronic cold exposure or ISR activation, Them1 accumulated in the nucleus, where it interacted with ChREBP and reduced the expression of its target genes, including those encoding enzymes that mediate glycolysis and de novo lipogenesis. These findings demonstrate that in response to chronic cold- or nutrient-induced stress, the induction of Them1 by ChREBP limits thermogenesis while coordinately reducing glucose utilization and lipid biosynthesis through its distinct cytoplasmic and nuclear activities. Targeted inhibition of Them1 could be a potential therapeutic approach to increase the activity of BAT and BeAT to enhance energy expenditure in the management of obesity-associated metabolic disorders.
Supplemental Material: Heavy mineral provenance and paleomagnetic studies of Mesozoic rocks in the Gold Beach terrane, southwestern Oregon, USA
Authors: Boudreau Ericka M. , al. et
Published: December 2024

The text file contains detailed methodology, scanning electron microscope–cathodoluminescence images, and Tera-Wasserburg plots; additionally, the document has sample and outcrop images and locations, a table of terrane descriptions and relationships, and representative stratigraphic columns. Excel files include mineral geochronology, isotope, and trace element geochemistry, detrital zircon maximum depositional age calculations, and results of multidimensional scaling cross-correlation analysis.
Supplemental Material: Fluid evolution and connections between porphyry-type and skarn-type ore in an intracontinental porphyry-skarn Cu-Au system: Evidence from apatite textures, composition, and oxygen isotopes at Dongguashan Cu-Au(-Mo) deposit, eastern China
Authors: Xiao Xin , al. et
Published: December 2024

Tables S1–S4 and Supplemental Text S1.
Somatosensory evoked potentials: technique, interpretation and clinical applications
Authors: Calma Aicee Dawn , Triplett James , Vucic Steve , Yiannikas Con
Published: December 2024

Somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) are electrical potentials that measure various parts of the ascending somatosensory pathways. They are elicited through stimulating mixed nerves, with subsequent orthodromic stimulation of sensory nerves. Despite advances in imaging, SSEPs complement both the clinical examination and peripheral neurophysiological studies when assessing the functional integrity of the sensory pathways, being especially helpful when imaging is inconclusive. We describe the technique of performing SSEPs and the anatomical substrates of their waveforms, and we highlight important clinical applications both in central and peripheral nervous system disorders.
Magnetic dipole lines of Sc-like Kr15+ and Br14+ ions
Authors: Xu Pengcheng , Qian Yuyuan , Liu Jialin , Jiang Zihuan , Jia Fangshi , Zhang Yizhuo , Zhang Mingwu , Meng Ju , Fu Yunqing , Zou Yaming , Yao Ke
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we report on optical lines of Sc-like Kr[Formula: see text] and Br[Formula: see text] observed using a low-energy electron beam ion trap. Within the spectral range of 220–590 nm, a total of 18 spectral lines from these two ions were identified, 12 of which were reported for the first time. To determine the energy levels, the multi-configuration Dirac–Hartree–Fock method and relativistic many-body perturbation theory are employed. The excitation energies for the 19 lowest levels arising from [Formula: see text] ground configuration of Kr[Formula: see text] and Br[Formula: see text] ions are presented. Comparing the theoretical wavelengths with the experimental values, a good agreement is observed with an average deviation of less than 1.1%. However, for a few lines, discrepancies larger than 2.0% are observed. The present experimental results could be reference data for further theoretical investigations of the multi-valence electron ions.