bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Money laundering from corruption offenses: criminological relationships
Authors: Rusanov Georgy , Pudovochkin Yury
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The study aims to focus on the criminological relationship between money laundering and corruption crimes.

Design/methodology/approach

The research program on money laundering acquired as a result of corruption crimes includes research of the specifics of corruption in the context of subsequent money laundering; the problem of latency of money laundering acquired as a result of corruption crimes; money laundering and administrative offenses of a corruption nature (income from them); money laundering and noncriminalized acts of corruption (trading in influence); money laundering and gifts; and money laundering and crimes of a corruption nature committed through criminal nonalienation (for example, providing a discount in exchange for illegal actions).

Findings

Russian national legislation was chosen as the basis for the study. However, the findings may be applicable to other states.

Originality/value

n particular, it is noted for the effective operation of such a mechanism to counter acts of a corrupt nature, the subject of money laundering must be expanded to include proceeds from acts that are not classified as criminal in national criminal law: proceeds from administrative offenses of a corruption nature; income from noncriminalized acts of corruption; income from gifts received in violation of the legal rules for their acceptance; income from acts of corruption committed through criminal nonalienation.
LMX and recruiter incivility toward job seekers: a self-serving attribution perspective
Authors: Wang Xiujuan , Weng Qingxiong , Wang Yanfen , Jiang Hui
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Job seekers frequently experience incivility during interactions with recruiters, which can negatively influence their job search behaviors. However, the underlying causes of such incivility remain underexplored. Based on attribution theory, this study examines how recruiters’ attributions about leader–member exchange (LMX) influence their psychological entitlement, which in turn shapes incivility toward job seekers.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey data was collected in three waves from 320 recruiters involved in the recruitment process.

Findings

The results found that when recruiters hold high levels of self-serving attribution, LMX quality is positively related to their psychological entitlement, which, in turn, promotes incivility toward job seekers.

Practical implications

Leaders should pay special attention to recruiters with high self-serving attributions when establishing LMX with them, as high-quality LMX may elicit a sense of psychological entitlement and potentially influence their uncivil behaviors.

Originality/value

Unlike prior studies that have focused on the negative outcomes of incivility experienced by job seekers, this study empirically reveals the potential antecedents of such incivility.
Exploring hybrid-working preferences of knowledge workers using a stated choice experiment
Authors: Munnich Anne , Kleingeld Ad , Weijschede Jelmer , Danivska Vitalija
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Hybrid working is becoming commonplace, but scientific research on employee preferences for hybrid-working arrangements is still scarce. The current study investigated knowledge-worker preferences for hybrid-working scenarios, considering the relative importance of hybrid-working aspects and differences among knowledge workers associated with differences in preferences.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted in a large governmental organization in the Netherlands. Attributes and levels for the choice-based experiment were developed in an iterative process involving several groups of stakeholders. A survey containing sociodemographic and work-related measures and a choice-based experiment was completed by 263 policy officers.

Findings

Conjoint analyses showed that the most important attribute was the “Distribution of days” (i.e. the percentage of time at home versus the office). Four employee segments were identified: home workers, hybrid fixed, hybrid flex and office workers, each with a different pattern of preferences. The segments differed on age/tenure, task interdependence, household composition (young children or not) and motives for coming to the office.

Research limitations/implications

The study reveals that differences in preferences are associated with different combinations of demographic and work characteristics rather than one specific characteristic. Findings align with theories on work–life balance, (family) life-cycle stages and needs-supply fit.

Practical implications

Study findings support managerial decision-making on which hybrid-working scenario(s) to implement, considering the preferences of different groups of employees.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature on hybrid working and represents a novel application of conjoint analysis.
It feels special: how nonalignable attributes enhance product evaluation
Authors: Liu Xiaomin , Yao Qing , Yang Defeng , Jiang Xia
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Consumers often face trade-offs between important product attributes. Previous research suggests that individuals tend to prioritize attribute differences that are easily processed and aligned. This paper aims to examine the contexts in which nonalignable attribute differences can positively impact consumers’ perceptions of products.

Design/methodology/approach

Four lab experiments were conducted to explore how consumer preferences for superior-alignable versus superior-nonalignable products vary based on purchase occasions, with a specific focus on routine and special occasions.

Findings

Consumers tend to prefer superior-nonalignable products on special occasions and superior-alignable products on routine occasions. This is driven by stronger uniqueness motives on special (vs routine) occasions, as consumers associate nonalignable attribute differences more closely with product specialness. The research also explores the moderating roles of consumers’ need for uniqueness (NFU) and psychological ownership. Consumers with higher levels of NFU consistently prefer superior-nonalignable products, regardless of the occasion type. Additionally, when consumers feel psychological ownership of products with superior-alignable attributes, the perceived specialness of these products increases, reducing the influence of occasion type on consumer preferences for attribute alignability.

Originality/value

This research emphasizes the importance of aligning product attribute differences with specific purchase occasions in marketing strategies.
Recruitment and retention challenges in Southeastern US academic libraries
Authors: Stewart Christopher , Hill J.B. , Lowe Louise L. , Eastwood Hill Jenna
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify challenges to recruitment and retention in academic libraries in the southeastern United States and to identify possible solutions that can be shared with other academic library recruiters.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reports on a survey of academic library administrators that investigated the challenges to recruitment and retention in academic libraries in the southeastern United States after the pandemic.

Findings

The study demonstrates that elements of the workplace, such as compensation, diversity efforts, work arrangement accommodations and external factors, impact recruitment and retention.

Originality/value

This study broadens the current research on recruitment and retention in academic libraries by bringing the experiences of rural and small libraries to the foreground and positing regional perspectives on library employment.
Sustainable agriculture: profile and strategies of Argentine wineries
Authors: Villanueva Emiliano , Ferrer Juan , Castillo Valero Juan Sebastián , García-Cortijo María Carmen
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The article aims to show the relationship between agricultural sustainability practices and the competitive strategies of Argentine wineries. It presents the strategic decisions, resources and capabilities of those Argentine wineries performing a sustainable agricultural approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Wineries in all wine regions of Argentina were surveyed to assess the interaction between wineries’ dynamics and characteristics, as well as their business and agronomical practices. The dataset accounts for 204 wineries, a representative sample of Argentinean wineries. We developed an agricultural index representing the degree of application of sustainable practices of an Argentine winery based on answers related to two items from the production phase: soil maintenance and phytosanitary protection. We then relate the index to exogenous explanatory variables in terms of business practices: resources and capabilities (price, income from other activities, technological resources, human resources and export activities) and Robinson and Pearce's competitive strategies (innovation strategy, marketing strategy, strategy efficiency and service strategy). A microeconometric model is proposed since it best fits this research’s objective and data type, specifically a logit/probit model.

Findings

The results show that wineries in Argentina performing agricultural sustainability practices have more technological and human resources and implement innovative product strategies. However, the results also show that wineries that receive more than 50% of their income from other activities do not show much concern about agronomical sustainability practices.

Originality/value

Wineries in Argentina that address objectives to reduce agricultural and environmental impact have more technological and human resources. Innovative wineries from Argentina that perform these sustainable agricultural practices develop a competitive advantage that shows consumers these sustainable agricultural practices worldwide as a differentiator. This attribute makes them different and helps them cope with their demands. The article delves into these new practices that are now reaching Argentina after being established in Europe for many years.
From Suez to Suez: an autoethnographic study of transgenerational trauma
Authors: Hall Steven
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The term transgenerational trauma describes a process whereby trauma responses may be transmitted through a number of generations. This paper aims to increase understanding of the mechanisms behind transgenerational trauma by tracing the transmission of the effects of the author’s grandfather’s post-traumatic stress disorder, arising from his involvement in some of the worst actions of WWI, through his mother to himself.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach uses the autoethnographic paradigm to elucidate some of the mechanisms involved in the transmission of trauma responses from one generation to the next.

Findings

The paper demonstrates how upsetting childhood experiences of the author had their origin in his mother’s wartime experience a decade earlier, which themselves were influenced by his grandfather’s wartime experience 30 years before that.

Originality/value

The originality of the research rests on the fact that it is a study of three generations of one particular family. However, its value lies in the applicability of its results in a wider context.
Artificial intelligence’s impact on theme parks’ competitiveness: role of information systems and organisational agility
Authors: Darwish Doaa , El-Adly Mohammed , Ahmad Syed Zamberi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore how information systems (IS) capabilities, organisational agility and artificial intelligence orientation (AIO) influence the competitive advantage (CA) of theme parks operated in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a survey of 341 theme park representatives. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to test the hypotheses and multigroup analysis was applied to examine the control variables.

Findings

The results show that theme parks with strong IS capabilities tend to achieve significant competitive edge. In addition, theme parks that are more agile outperform their competitors. However, although artificial intelligence (AI) tools are crucial, they do not necessarily strengthen the impact of these capabilities on a theme parks’ success.

Practical implications

Theme park operators should invest in technology that improves operational efficiency and customer service while building flexible organisational structures that swiftly adapt to market trends. Although AI is valuable, the real focus of UAE theme parks should be on strengthening their ability to adapt and effectively use IS, which directly contributes to a sustained CA.

Originality/value

This study uniquely integrates IS capabilities and agility with an AIO, offering fresh perspectives for theme parks in the UAE to navigate technological shifts. The findings suggest that successful digital adaptation relies on balancing technological capabilities with agile practices.
Sensory marketing in the metaverse for tourism preview and tourism pre-experience: the effect on the intention to visit tourist destinations
Authors: Casais Beatriz , Coelho Tiago , Escadas Marco
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse the effect of vision, hearing and haptics on tourism metaverse previews and pre-experiences and compares the effects of metaverse previews and pre-experiences on the intention to visit.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 172 individuals answered an online survey about their previous interaction with the tourism metaverse – 104 had tourism metaverse previews, and 68 had tourism metaverse pre-experiences. Then, a case study of a tourism metaverse pre-experience was analysed to strengthen and further understand the quantitative study.

Findings

While vision and hearing are significant in tourism metaverse previews, only vision and haptics contribute to obtaining a sense of presence in tourism metaverse pre-experiences, although the potential of hearing. Tourism metaverse pre-experiences have a stronger positive impact on the intention to visit the destination than tourism metaverse previews.

Practical implications

Practitioners should integrate the sense of haptics in the metaverse pre-experiences, despite the costs involved, because the immersive sense of presence has stronger effects on visit intentions than metaverse previews. However, the dependence on sensorial stimuli and the effect on tourism growth may limit the advantages of metaverse as an alternative for impaired tourists and to reduce overtourism.

Originality/value

This paper clarifies the different effects that each sensory stimulus has in the sense of presence, depending on different levels of immersiveness, requiring congruence. The value of metaverse pre-experiences is highlighted with the evidence of strengthening the intention to visit.
ChatGPT for travel-related services: a pleasure–arousal–dominance perspective
Authors: Xu Han , Li Xi , Lovett Jonathan C. , Cheung Lewis T.O.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study uses the pleasure–arousal–dominance (PAD) theory to explore how users’ emotional engagement with ChatGPT drives their continued adoption of ChatGPT and word-of-mouth (WOM) behaviour in the context of travel-related service.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained reliable data from 428 Chinese respondents who used ChatGPT for travel-related purposes. Structural equation modelling was used to test a series of hypotheses based on the PAD framework.

Findings

This study identifies three key features of human–artificial intelligence (AI) interaction, namely, service ubiquity, entertainment and anthropomorphism, which significantly influence users’ emotional responses, including pleasure, arousal and dominance. Dominance and pleasure are found to enhance emotional experiences, driving continued adoption and positive WOM recommendations for ChatGPT, whereas arousal influences WOM but does not affect continued adoption. The results also confirm that users’ perceived pleasure from interacting with ChatGPT has the strongest effect. These findings advance theoretical understanding by clarifying the emotional mechanisms underlying human–AI interactions in the tourism context.

Originality/value

This study examines the emerging trend of tourists’ continuous adoption of ChatGPT for travel-related services. The results highlight how different emotions in human–AI interaction influence long-term use of AI-powered tool for travel-related services.
Quantifying phenotypic plasticity: A call for consistency
Authors: Gómez Jose M. , Perfectti Francisco , González‐Megías Adela , Armas Cristina
Published: February 2025

The interest of evolutionary, functional and applied ecologists in the study of phenotypic plasticity has grown considerably in recent decades. From being considered irrelevant in the mid‐20th century, phenotypic plasticity is now considered ubiquitous and essential for organisms to adapt to changing environments and to meet the challenges posed by anthropogenic global change.

Consequently, an increasing number of studies are investigating phenotypic plasticity in many systems and ecological scenarios. This has led to the development of multiple and disparate methodological approaches.

In this article, we propose a methodological framework that considers phenotypic plasticity as a trait property detected by constructing genotype‐based reaction norms that can be modelled using mixed‐effect models.

We do not claim that this methodology is the only existing alternative for studying plasticity, but we believe it is a standard and consistent approach that allows for a rigorous assessment of the magnitude and between‐genotype variation in plasticity.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Abundant top predators increase species interaction network complexity in northeastern Chinese forests
Authors: She Wen , Holyoak Marcel , Gu Jiayin , Qi Jinzhe , Liu Shuyan , Jiang Guangshun
Published: February 2025

Species interactions remain a cornerstone in shaping community dynamics and structure, alongside other factors, such as climate conditions and human activities. Although network structure is known to influence community stability and ecosystem functioning, the roles of top predators in shaping interaction network structure remain obscure.

We examined a 5–7‐year time series of species detections for mammal communities in multiple protected areas to investigate the association between top predators and interaction network structure.

Our findings suggest that abundant species, day‐active species and species with wide habitat breadth interact with more species, as did species that were more affected by vehicle disturbance. With increased densities of top predators, interaction networks exhibited greater complexity, with increased connectance, nestedness and average degree. An increased density of mesopredators, such as yellow‐throated martens and badgers, was associated with sparser, less nested, but more centralized interaction networks. Top predators reduced the degree of highly interactive species, making them more specialized, and increased the degree of less abundant species, making them more general. In particular, this redistribution of interactions was not driven by direct changes in species density of top predators but seemingly by non‐consumptive or indirect effects.

Our findings emphasize the pivotal role of the main predators in structuring interactions within northeastern China's mammal communities, with large implications for conservation and management.
Integrating plasticity into conservation practice: Harnessing genetic estimates of epigenetic potential to study phenotypic plasticity in wild populations
Authors: Sheldon Elizabeth L. , Martin Lynn B. , Schrey Aaron W.
Published: February 2025

The delineation of conservation units is essential for policy makers to target distinct groups of organisms for bespoke management. Genomic data have revolutionised the delineation of conservation units by enabling the detection of adaptive genetic variation and population structure. However, to date, genomic data have not been harnessed for their potential to identify (and thus preserve) variation in phenotypic plasticity—a major mechanism enabling organisms to tolerate and exploit environmental change.

An organism's capacity to express phenotypic plasticity via epigenetic modifications of its genome is termed ‘epigenetic potential’. Here, we outline how variation in specific genomic elements could be used to estimate epigenetic potential and perhaps the capacity for wild animals to express phenotypic plasticity. We highlight case studies suggesting that epigenetic potential is selectively advantageous in environments demanding high phenotypic plasticity. We then outline avenues for future research to validate and leverage epigenetic potential data as a conservation tool to study phenotypic plasticity in wild populations.

Policy implications: The development of practical tools to estimate phenotypic plasticity is necessary to foster a more integrative field of conservation science—one that acknowledges the evolutionary significance of genotype, epigenotype, and environment interactions.
Developing and testing health warnings about alcohol and risk for breast cancer: Results from a national experiment with young adult women in the United States
Authors: Massey Zachary B. , Anbari Allison B. , Wang Na , Adediran Abigail , Lawrie LaRissa L. , Martinez Priscilla , McCarthy Denis
Published: February 2025

Background

This study sought to identify effective health warnings about alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk among young adult female participants.

Methods

We tested a pool of health warnings in a national pilot study. We used the most effective designs from the pilot in the main experiment where young (ages 21–29) U.S. adult female participants (N = 1038) reporting past 30‐day alcohol consumption were randomly assigned into 1 of 4 conditions where they viewed a health warning about (1) mortality, (2) mastectomy, (3) hair loss, or (4) control (non‐health warning message). Participants were then randomly assigned to view 1 of 2 message types within each condition: text‐only or pictorial. Warnings were shown apart from products. Outcomes were message reactions (attention to and cognitive elaboration of warnings, fear, hope, and perceived message effectiveness), attitudes and beliefs (perceived severity and susceptibility to alcohol harms, and perceived response and self‐efficacy to prevent alcohol harms), and behavioral intentions to stop or to reduce alcohol consumption in the next month.

Results

Multivariate analysis of covariance (MANCOVA) models testing between warning conditions showed estimated marginal means (EMM) for every health warning condition were significantly higher than the control for attention (control = 5.80 vs. mortality = 6.63, mastectomy = 6.81, hair loss = 6.83, all ps < 0.05), fear (control = 2.45 vs. mortality = 4.11, mastectomy = 4.16, hair loss = 4.02, ps < 0.05), perceived message effectiveness (control = 3.44 vs. mortality = 5.75, mastectomy = 5.82, hair loss = 6.09, ps < 0.05), and perceived severity of alcohol harms (control = 5.51 vs. mortality = 6.25, mastectomy = 6.09, hair loss = 6.35, ps < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the health warnings about cancer effects for perceived message effectiveness. EMMs for intentions to reduce alcohol consumption in the next month were significantly higher in the mortality (6.44) and hair loss (6.35) conditions versus control (5.61, ps < 0.05).

Conclusion

Exposure to health warnings about alcohol consumption and breast cancer risk (vs. control) resulted in greater attention, fear, perceived message effectiveness, perceived severity of alcohol harms, and intentions to reduce alcohol consumption.
Two Severely Compromised Teeth Restored Using Digital Planning Combined With Double Orthodontic Magnetic Extrusion: A Case Report
Authors: Casaponsa Jaume , Vinothkumar Thilla Sekar , Narasimhan Bharadwaj , Dummer Paul M. H. , Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Sans Francesc Abella
Published: February 2025

Tooth tissue loss due to dental caries is frequently challenging to restore, and this loss is made worse by proximal tooth borders that extend below the gingival margin. This report describes a digitally designed case in which the ferrule and supracrestal tissue attachment were preserved by simultaneous double magnetic extrusion of two root filled teeth. A 67‐year‐old male presented with the chief concern of a fractured maxillary left canine. The maxillary left lateral incisor and canine underwent rapid magnetic extrusion to create ferrules (3 mm). Eighteen months after treatment, the restorative margins were sound and the teeth with associated periodontal tissues were healthy. The positive results demonstrate that the combination of digital planning and double magnetic extrusion has potential as a technique for restoring severely damaged teeth where insufficient supra‐gingival tooth tissue remains. Adjacent root canal treated teeth with severe loss of coronal structure are suitable candidates for double magnetic extrusion.
Endocrine Abnormalities and Growth Pattern in Single Large‐Scale Mitochondrial DNA Deletion Syndromes
Authors: Daka Ayman , Lahav Einat , Yosef Omer Bar , Bolkier Yoav , Levy‐Shraga Yael , Anikster Yair , Jacoby Elad , Gruber Noah
Published: February 2025

Aim

To assess the prevalence of endocrine disorders and investigate growth patterns in single large‐scale mitochondrial DNA deletion syndromes (SLSMDs).

Methods

A retrospective study of all children with SLSMD who attended Sheba Medical Center, Israel, from February 2017 to September 2024.

Results

The cohort included 18 individuals (9 males). The mean age at diagnosis was 4 ± 3.8 years and the mean age at analysis was 12 ± 5.2 years. All patients exhibited at least one endocrine disorder within 5 years post‐diagnosis. The most common were short stature (94%), hypoparathyroidism (83%), diabetes (33%), and delayed puberty (30%). A median of seven height measurements per individual produced 159 data points, which enabled generating unique growth charts. The mean puberty height‐SDS was significantly lower than that of the general population (−3.71 ± 1.17, p < 0.001). The mean Childhood and puberty height‐SDS were significantly reduced compared to the preschool period (−2.13 ± 1.13 vs. −3.35 ± 1.04, p = 0.01; −2.06 ± 1.03 vs. −3.71 ± 1.17, p = 0.007). The mean delta in height‐SDS from their parents and the mean insulin‐like growth factor 1‐SDS were lower than in the general population (2.36 ± 1.28, p = 0.0001 and − 1.53 ± 0.98, p < 0.0001, respectively).

Conclusion

All patients with SLSMD presented with endocrine disorders. Growth during childhood and adolescence was slower. Patients with SLSMD are predisposed to endocrine complications and should undergo timely and routine evaluations.
Clinical Trial: A Phase 2b Study to Evaluate the Efficacy and Safety of MK‐3655 in Individuals With Pre‐Cirrhotic MASH
Authors: Raji Annaswamy , Gantz Ira , Crutchlow Michael , Flynn Heather , Xu Lianzhe , Rodgers Anthony J. , Krishnan Radha , Rizk Matthew L. , Hu Shuai , Kaufman Keith D. , Engel Samuel S. ,   MK‐3655 P001 Study Group
Published: February 2025

Background

Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) is a metabolic regulator with demonstrated efficacy for the treatment of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH). FGF21 signals through ‘c’ isoforms of the FGF receptors (FGFR) 1–3 and the co‐receptor β‐klotho.

Aims

We report the safety and efficacy of MK‐3655, a monoclonal antibody that binds β‐klotho and selectively activates the FGFR1c/β‐klotho co‐receptor complex, in patients with pre‐cirrhotic MASH.

Methods

Phase 2b, randomised, multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, parallel‐group study in patients with pre‐cirrhotic MASH (NAS ≥ 4 and MASH CRN fibrosis score Stage 2 or 3). Participants were randomised 1:1:1:1 to receive MK‐3655 50 mg, 100 mg, 300 mg, or matching placebo subcutaneously every 4 weeks. The primary endpoint was MASH resolution without worsening of fibrosis by histology at Week 52. An interim analysis (IA) of liver fat content (LFC) was planned once ≥ 25 participants per treatment group completed an MRI‐PDFF assessment at Week 24.

Results

Among 183 participants, mean BMI was 33.4 kg/m2, mean LFC was 18.1%, and 52.5% had type 2 diabetes. At the IA, the differences from placebo in relative reduction from baseline in LFC were assessed as insufficient for continuation of the trial. Among participants with Week 24 LFC assessment, percent relative reductions from baseline (LS mean difference vs. placebo) for MK‐3655 50 mg (N = 33), 100 mg (N = 36), and 300 mg (N = 31), were 19.1%, 19.0%, and 26.1%, respectively. MK‐3655 was generally well tolerated.

Conclusions

In patients with pre‐cirrhotic MASH, treatment with MK‐3655 resulted in a modest reduction in LFC at 24 weeks.

Clinical Trial Number

EudraCT: 2019‐003048‐63; NCT: 04583423.
Prerequisites for a computational approach to Minoan chronology
Authors: Panagiotopoulos Diamantis , Trognitz Martina
Published: February 2025

The paper examines the development, adoption, and limitations of the relative chronology system for Minoan pottery, initially established by Sir Arthur Evans and Duncan Mackenzie during the excavation of Knossos (1900–1906). Despite its weaknesses, this system remained largely unchanged due to its convenience rather than its accuracy. The study discusses adaptations of this framework, critiques its shortcomings—particularly in obscuring temporal variability—and explores alternative approaches, including computational methods and Linked Open Data (LOD). The proposed solution involves replacing rigid periodizations with a more precise system based on synchronisms, visualized through Gantt charts, and integrating regional sequences using mathematical modeling. The goal is to enhance chronological accuracy in Minoan archaeology, especially for critical transitional periods.
The relationships between fish length and otolith size of the striped snakehead, Channa striata (Bloch, 1793), collected from the River Ganga and its two tributaries in India
Authors: Khan Salman , Jawad Laith A. , Khan Mohammad Afzal , Park Joo Myun , Ankita  , Bano Farah , Miyan Kaish
Published: February 2025

The relationship between the total length of fish and the morphometric characteristics of their otoliths (length, width, and weight) was examined in striped snakehead (Channa striata, Bloch, 1793) specimens collected from the River Ganga and its two tributaries in India. Channa striata, a commercially valuable species in India, was the focus of this study, which aimed to analyse the statistical correlations between the fish's total and standard lengths and their corresponding otolith measurements, with the expectation that the data will contribute to future research on the species' biology, particularly its age, and growth patterns. Both linear and non‐linear regression models were applied, and the regression equations varied significantly between the three collection sites. These findings represent the first investigation into the relationship between otolith morphology and total fish length for striped snakehead from the River Ganga and its tributaries in India.
Maternal and perinatal outcomes of sickle cell disease in pregnancy: A nationwide study in France
Authors: Corsia Alice , Joseph Laure , Beeker Nathanael , Manceau Sandra , Driessen Marine , Meunier Benoit , Cavazzana Marina , Collier Mathis , Treluyer Jean‐Marc
Published: February 2025

This nationwide cohort study provides a comprehensive overview of maternal and perinatal outcomes associated with sickle cell disease (SCD) during pregnancy. Using the French national health database, all singleton pregnancy‐related hospital discharges from 2013 to 2020 in women aged 15–55 (n = 5 752 080) were selected. Of these, 1022 births were to women with SCD, 308 of whom were on long‐term treatment, that is, hydroxyurea (HU) and/or transfusion programme. Pregnancies with SCD were more likely to involve pre‐eclampsia (9.6% vs. 1.7%; p < 0.001), pulmonary embolism (0.70% vs. 0.02%; p < 0.001), caesarean sections (52.8% vs. 18.2%; p < 0.001) and postpartum haemorrhage (8.3% vs. 4.1%; p < 0.001) compared to pregnancies without SCD. Preterm birth (<37 weeks) was much more common in women with SCD (28.5% vs. 5.6%). Infants born to women with SCD faced greater adverse neonatal outcomes (22.4% vs. 8.0%; p < 0.001). Although untreated SCD was linked to fewer complications than long‐term treated SCD, both conditions presented greater risks compared with pregnancies without SCD. Unexpectedly, babies born to women with SCD had a higher incidence of congenital abnormalities (6.3% vs. 3.4%; p < 0.001), not attributed to HU use. Overall, despite advances in SCD management, pregnancy in SCD remains a high‐risk condition, for both mothers and babies.
Immune‐deficient MISTRG mice support expansion of leukaemia‐initiating cells in xenograft models of paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Connerty Patrick , Xie Jinhan , El‐Najjar Fatima , Trahair Toby N. , Jayatilleke Nisitha , Mayoh Chelsea , Lock Richard B.
Published: February 2025

Acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) remains a deadly disease, largely due to the persistence of drug‐resistant leukaemia‐initiating cells (LICs) which promote relapse. Therefore, effective therapies must target LICs. Patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) are valuable for testing new therapies, though establishing AML PDX models is challenging. Two humanized mouse strains, MISTRG and NRGS, have been developed for this purpose. In this study, we show both are suitable strains for the development of AML PDXs; however, MISTRG‐derived PDXs contain 10 times higher LIC frequencies than NRGS‐derived PDXs. These differences have crucial implications for preclinical AML therapy testing and modelling relapse models of the disease.
A general dynamic learning model framework for cognitive diagnosis
Authors: Liu Zichu , Wang Shiyu , Xiao Houping , Zhang Shumei , Qiu Tao
Published: February 2025

Understanding students' learning trajectories is crucial for educators to effectively monitor and enhance progress. With the rise of computer‐based testing, researchers now have access to rich datasets that provide deeper insights into student performance. This study introduces a general dynamic learning model framework that integrates response accuracy and response times to capture different test‐taking behaviors and estimate learning trajectories related to polytomous attributes over time. A Bayesian estimation method is proposed to estimate model parameters. Rigorous validation through simulation studies confirms the effectiveness of the MCMC algorithm in parameter recovery and highlights the model's utility in understanding learning trajectories and detecting different test‐taking behaviors in a learning environment. Applied to real data, the model demonstrates practical value in educational settings. Overall, this comprehensive and validated model offers educators and researchers nuanced insights into student learning progress and behavioral dynamics.
Tectono‐Sedimentary Evolution of the Distal Paleogene Andean Retroarc at 33° S: New Detrital Zircon U–Pb Geochronology From the Divisadero Largo Formation
Authors: Lothari Lucas , Suriano Julieta , Mescua José , Bertoa del Llano Macarena , Arnous Ahmad , Pingel Heiko , Strecker Manfred R. , Giambiagi Laura , Echaurren Andres , Barrionuevo Matias , Mahoney J. Brian , Cottle John M.
Published: February 2025

Sedimentary basins in the distal Cenozoic Andean retroarc yield an important geological archive that provides crucial insights into the tectonic and sedimentary processes associated with the different stages of mountain building. At 33° S, the tectonic and sedimentary processes that have operated during the Neogene and Quaternary periods of Andean orogenesis are well documented, whereas information on the Paleogene period remains fragmentary and partly enigmatic. The Paleogene sedimentation in the distal retroarc at this latitude is represented by the Divisadero Largo Formation, a 70‐m‐thick sedimentary unit that has been extensively studied for its fossil content, leading to the controversial definition of the late Eocene Divisaderan South American Land Mammal Age (SALMA). New zircon U–Pb geochronological data provide a valuable age constraint for Paleogene tectonic and sedimentary processes in the Southern Central Andes. Furthermore, we present the first detailed facies analysis of the Divisadero Largo Formation, combined with a sedimentary provenance study and a seismic subsurface characterisation of this unit. Our results indicate that the age of the Divisadero Largo Formation is Palaeocene to early Eocene (~65–41 Ma). Deposition of this unit occurred in a shallow, lacustrine depositional environment with variable water depths and was characterised by a low accumulation rate of 3 m/Myr. During this time, the sediment source was predominately located in the Andean magmatic arc; however, no conclusive evidence of significant Paleogene deformation exists. These characteristics (age, depositional environment, low accumulation rate and provenance) enable a regional correlation with Paleogene deposits farther south in the Neuquén Basin. In addition, based on U–Pb geochronology and sedimentary features, a 20 Myr hiatus could be defined between the Divisadero Largo Formation and overlying synorogenic deposits, as has been proposed farther south, reflecting the northernmost record of this hiatus. Taken together, these new observations help to refine a tectono‐sedimentary model for the evolution of the Southern Central Andes retroarc basin at 33° S that comprises four stages preceding the well‐documented Miocene contraction phase: (i) Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous extension; (ii) Late Cretaceous contraction; (iii) Palaeocene–middle Eocene tectonic quiescence; and (iv) a renewed phase of late Eocene–Oligocene extension.
Trueness of Customized Abutment Data Superimposition on Incompletely Scanned Impression: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Baek Yeon‐Wha , Kim Bongju , Kim Myung‐Joo , Kwon Ho‐Beom , Lim Young‐Jun
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study evaluated the feasibility and trueness of superimposing titanium customized abutment library data onto scans of abutments with incomplete areas along margins or proximal surfaces, comparing this approach to the CAD program's hole‐filling function.

Material and Methods

A dental model with one implant was used. A titanium customized abutment was scanned to create abutment library data. Reference data were generated using a laboratory scanner (Medit T500) and the abutment and neighboring teeth were scanned 10 times with Medit I500, an intraoral scanner (IOS group). Superimposition with abutment library data was performed for fully scanned (F), margin‐deleted (M1 and M2), and proximal‐deleted scans (P). The “Close holes” function of exocad DentalCAD was applied to create the PF group. Trueness was assessed by comparing root mean square (RMS) and point‐based deviations against reference data using Geomagic control X. Statistical analysis was conducted using one‐way ANOVA and Tukey HSD tests.

Results

Superimposition improved trueness compared to the IOS group, reducing RMS from 42.11 ± 1.11 to 36.37–36.61 μm in the F, M1, M2, and P groups (p < 0.001). No significant differences were observed among superimposition groups. The PF group exhibited greater deviations than all superimposition groups (p < 0.001). Point‐based analysis showed significant improvement in superimposed groups (p < 0.05), except at marginal ridges (p > 0.05). The hole‐filling function did not enhance trueness (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Superimposing abutment library data improve the trueness of intraoral scans, even when areas along margins and proximal surfaces are incomplete.
Global Trends of Trait Matching in Avian Frugivory and Its Consequences for the Complementarity and Irreplaceability of Birds
Authors: Morán‐López T. , Campagna M. S. , Schleuning M. , García D. , Morales J. M.
Published: February 2025

It is generally accepted that small birds cannot eat large fruits and that highly frugivorous species prefer lipid‐poor ones (morphological and nutritional trait‐matching). Yet, it is unclear if these rules operate globally and if their strength varies with latitude and on islands. This could have important functional implications for the degree of complementarity and irreplaceability of birds. We analyse avian frugivory in 59 communities across the globe and show that trait‐matching is widespread. The strength of morphological trait‐matching increased with latitude, and especially on islands, leading to high complementarity between large and small birds. However, whether this resulted in irreplaceability depended on the range of fruit sizes available in the community. Nutritional trait‐matching was also common, but did not lead to complementarity or irreplaceability because birds with contrasting diets did not show opposite responses to lipid‐poor fruits. We show that trait‐matching is pervasive, but its functional consequences are complex.
Effect of nitrogen atmosphere during 3D printing on mechanical properties of orthodontic aligners
Authors: Zinelis Spiros , Panayi Nearchos , Polychronis Georgios , Dionysopoulos Dimitrios , Papageorgiou Spyridon N. , Eliades Theodore
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of low oxygen environment during printing on the mechanical properties of 3D printed aligners. Thirty‐six 3D printed rectangular (20 × 20 × 10 mm) specimens were fabricated using the SprintRay Pro 55 printer and equally divided into two groups. Eighteen of them were built under normal atmosphere conditions during printing (CON) and the rest by continuously purging pure (NIT), thereby eliminating the oxygen content. Both groups underwent post‐curing in an illuminated chamber. Three samples from each group were analyzed by attenuated total reflection Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (ATR‐FTIR). The remaining specimens underwent metallographic grinding/polishing followed by nano‐indentation testing. The mechanical properties measured were: Martens Hardness (HM), indentation modulus (EIT), and elastic index (ηIT). Statistically significant differences between groups were assessed using Mann–Whitney tests (α = 0.05). Both groups showed identical ATR‐FTIR spectra and complete C = C conversion. No statistically significant differences in the parameters tested were seen. The medians (interquartile ranges) were HM CON: 68.0 N/mm2 (65.0–71.0 N/mm2), NIT: 73.0 N/mm2 (67.0–83.0 N/mm2); EIT CON: 1999.0 MPa (1952.0–2154.0 MPa); NIT: 2047.0 MPa (1702.0–2104.0 MPa); ηIT CON: 28.0% (27.2%–29.0%) and NIT: 28.9% (27.1%–31.4%). The results of this study showed that elimination of oxygen during printing does not affect the mechanical properties of 3D printed aligners.
Critical socialization in White families: Lessons learned from an antiracist parenting program
Authors: Kerr Margaret L. , Botto Inés , Byer Kay , Duncan Larissa G.
Published: February 2025

Background

Racial bias develops at an early age, yet most White parents promote color‐evasive racial ideology or do not address race with children. There is a need for White parents to have developmentally appropriate race‐conscious conversations with young children to address bias and facilitate antiracist values.

Objectives

This paper describes program development, theoretical foundations, implementation challenges, and lessons learned from the pilot of an antiracist parent training program. The program is a six‐session training for White parents of preschool‐aged children. Grounded in family science, it incorporates children's literature and guidance for parent–child communication on race and racism.

Applied Experience

There was high interest in the program and participants responded well to the opportunity to learn from other parents. Considerable variability in parents' racial awareness impacted complexity of discussions and influenced parents' responses. Notably, child factors influenced parent outcomes, suggesting bidirectionality in racial socialization processes.

Conclusion and Implications

Parent training may be a promising avenue for addressing Whiteness and promoting antiracist action. There is a need to consider program implementation in different settings, such as with different facilitators or in less politically progressive communities. Future programs should consider how to encourage critical self‐reflection and facilitate complex discussions toward antiracist skill building.
Binary protein interactome mapping of the Giardia lamblia proteasome lid reveals extra proteasomal functions of GlRpn11
Authors: Das Ankita , Ray Atrayee , Chaudhuri Nibedita Ray , Mukherjee Soumyajit , Ghosh Dastidar Shubhra , Ghosh Alok , Ganguly Sandipan , Jana Kuladip , Sarkar Srimonti
Published: February 2025

The assembly of the 26S proteasome, a multi‐subunit complex for regulated protein turnover, proceeds via the formation of intermediates. Giardia lamblia does not encode proteasome regulatory subunit Rpn12 or proteasome complex subunit Sem1, two proteins crucial for assembling the proteasome lid. To understand how the interactions between the giardial proteasome lid subunits may have changed to compensate for their absence, we used yeast two‐hybrid to generate a binary interactome map of Giardia's lid subunits. Most interactions within the Giardia lid are stronger than Saccharomyces cerevisiae lid, which may compensate for Rpn12 and Sem1 absence. A notable exception was the weaker interaction between the two non‐ATPase lid subunits, GlRpn11 and GlRpn8, compared to the strong interaction between yeast orthologs Rpn11 and Rpn8. The Rpn11–Rpn8 dimer provides a platform for lid assembly. Their interaction involves the insertion of a methionine residue of Rpn11 into a hydrophobic pocket of Rpn8. Molecular modeling indicates that GlRpn8's pocket is wider, reconciling the experimental observation of its weak interaction with GlRpn11. This weaker interaction may have evolved to support proteasome‐independent functions of GlRpn11, which localizes to multiple subcellular regions, including the mitosomes, where other proteasome subunits cannot be detected. Functional complementation in yeast shows that GlRpn11 can influence mitochondrial function and distribution. Together these observations show that GlRpn11 functions at the mitosome. Thus, this parasite's proteasome lid has a simpler subunit architecture than that of yeast with structural attributes to support dual functionalities for GlRpn11. Such parasite‐specific proteasome features provide opportunities for controlling parasite transmission.