bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating employee performance in the Indian manufacturing sectors: identifying critical success factors
Authors: Shah Ajith Kumar , Shukla Akanksha , Rao P Kritee
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Effective human resource management and organisational success depend heavily on measuring employee performance. This paper aims to investigate multiple factors that are crucial in assessing and measuring employee performance in Indian manufacturing sectors. Further prioritisation of the manufacturing industries based on their practices is conducted to measure employee performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The LOCOW approach has been used in this study to determine the relative weightage of the factors that assist in measuring employee performance, and the MARCOS method prioritises manufacturing industries.

Findings

Through weightage, criteria show that task performance is given the most weightage, followed by adaptability and contextual performance in the manufacturing sectors. The top three industries are oil and gas, steel and automobile.

Practical implications

This study gives manufacturing industries the tools they need to improve their HR practices, get better work from their employees and stay ahead of the competition in a constantly changing industry.

Originality/value

The current work examines the weightage among the factors that aid in assessing employee performance; further, the use of MARCOS technique prioritises the industries, which can be considered the original contribution.
Analyzing India’s public distribution network: a triple-bottom-line approach
Authors: Gupta Rishabh , Routroy Srikanta , Chhetri Prem , Sahu Prasanta , Nkhoma Mathews
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study integrates economic, environmental, and social dimensions into the distribution network for India’s Public Distribution System (PDS). It aims to identify multi-modal strategies that balance cost efficiency, lower emissions, and community well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A model is proposed to allocate grains from base to field silos via road, rail, and inland waterways considering Triple Bottom Line (TBL). The costs, emissions, and social factors (e.g. employment) were quantified and combined to generate a composite score, enabling rigorous trade-off evaluation.

Findings

Results from a representative case study show that integrating rail and waterways reduces total costs and emissions while boosting employment and community welfare. Intermodal configurations improve the PDS’s sustainability, demonstrating the feasibility of aligning economic objectives with environmental and social outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

Future work could incorporate stochastic demand or disruptions, and extend beyond a single commodity or region, enhancing the model’s robustness and generalizability.

Practical implications

Insights guide planners in selecting routes, modes, and facility investments aligned with cost reduction, emissions control, and social uplift.

Social implications

The approach promotes inclusive development by increasing employment opportunities and ensuring a more equitable distribution of benefits in vulnerable communities.

Originality/value

This research extends conventional cost-centric frameworks by incorporating TBL metrics in a large-scale, government-run distribution setting. It provides a practical blueprint, informing infrastructural investments and policy interventions for holistic, enduring improvements in food security and resource utilization.
Digital transformation and business model innovation: the relevance of strategic orientations under varying conditions of competitive intensity
Authors: Tetteh Francis Kamewor , Gyamerah Kwaku Kyei , Nyamekye Bright , Atiki Gabriel , Ashia Raphael
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted existing business models, forcing managers in the manufacturing industry to look for new strategies that could help their firms bounce forward. The situation calls for a rethink, redesign, and development of new business models (BMs) using digital capabilities. Drawing from the dynamic capability theory, this paper investigates how digital transformation (DT) influences business model innovation (BMI) through technology orientation (TO). The paper further examined the moderating role of competitive intensity (CI) in the DT-TO link.

Design/methodology/approach

The model was tested using survey data from 208 senior managers in manufacturing firms in Ghana. SPSS 23 and structural equation modeling (SEM) were used for the analyses.

Findings

The results revealed that both DT and technology orientation directly influence all four dimensions of BMI. The result further showed that technology orientation indirectly mediates the relationship between DT and all four dimensions of BMI. The findings further showed that the DT-BMI link is amplified at varying levels of competitive intensity.

Originality/value

Although recent research has highlighted the pertinence of embracing DT to foster innovation, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study among the first few attempts to shed light on the role of DT for sensing, seizing, and (re) configuring firms’ resources to renovate manufacturing business models to stay competitive. In addition, to date, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no study exists that has examined the conditions and mechanism through which optimal BMI can be achieved through DT. The paper offer practical guidance to managers of manufacturing firms by developing an actionable framework to effectively leverage digital transformation for business model innovation through enhanced technology orientation, offering clear guidelines for assessing and aligning organizational capabilities with digital strategies.
Antecedents and consequences of organization engagement in nonprofit organizations: the case of sport clubs
Authors: Kondert Samuel , Marcus Bernd
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper investigates the role of organization engagement and extra-role behavior in nonprofit sport clubs and examines how team dynamics and eudaimonic well-being in sport club members are influential for organization engagement. We further investigate the moderating influence of organizational tenure between team reflexivity and team identification.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected data from 545 sport club members in the UK and applied structural equation modeling (SPSS AMOS 29) to test the research model.

Findings

The results show that organization engagement is positively associated with extra-role behavior, except the social dimension of engagement, which is negatively associated. We established that team identification and eudaimonic well-being fully mediate the association between team reflexivity and organization engagement. The moderating effect of organizational tenure supports that team reflexivity is more effective for members with short-term tenure to strengthen team identification.

Practical implications

Managers in sport clubs are advised to consider the type of information exchanged, the way it is discussed, the intensity or regularity of team reflexivity and the degree of interactivity between members as critical factors that influence team dynamics and organization engagement.

Originality/value

We contribute to research in two major ways. First, we extend previous research on organization engagement by offering a multidimensional investigation of organization engagement in a nonprofit sport club context. Second, we extend previous research on organization engagement by introducing new antecedents and consequences in this context.
Phenomenological insights into socio-psychological and network dynamics of women entrepreneurs
Authors: Islam Mohammad Shahidul , Azizzadeh Fariba , Islam Md. Shamimul , Adrita Ummul Wara , Mazumder Arif Hossain , Akhter Rahma
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the socio-psychological and network dynamics influencing women’s entrepreneurial journeys in Bangladesh. It focuses on understanding how societal expectations, financial barriers and emotional resilience shape these women’s entrepreneurial experiences and outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

A hermeneutic phenomenological approach was employed, involving in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with 15 women entrepreneurs from various industries in Bangladesh. Thematic analysis was used to identify critical patterns and themes in their experiences.

Findings

Six major themes emerged from the data: societal biases and constraints, financial hurdles, balancing family and work, psychosocial processes, the impact of social networks and strategic interventions. The findings not only reveal the deeply ingrained gender biases, limited access to financial resources and the emotional toll of juggling professional and domestic responsibilities but also underscore the remarkable resilience of these women in the face of such challenges.

Practical implications

The study offers actionable insights for policymakers, support organizations and researchers. It underscores the urgent need for gender-sensitive financial policies, restructuring mentorship programs to include emotional support and developing cultural awareness campaigns to challenge societal norms that hinder women entrepreneurs.

Originality/value

This research uniquely contributes to the underexplored psychosocial dimensions of women’s entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. It highlights how emotional resilience and societal dynamics influence entrepreneurial success, offering valuable insights for enhancing support systems for women entrepreneurs.
Spatial, environmental and trophic niche partitioning by seabirds in a climate change hotspot
Authors: Niella Yuri , O'Hara Dustin , Jonsen Ian , Slip David , Phillips Lachlan , Harcourt Rob , Carroll Gemma
Published: January 2025

For similar species to co‐occur in places where resources are limited, they need to adopt strategies that partition resources to reduce competition. Our understanding of the mechanisms behind resource partitioning among sympatric marine predators is evolving, but we lack a clear understanding of how environmental change is impacting these dynamics.

We investigated spatial and trophic resource partitioning among three sympatric seabirds with contrasting biological characteristics: greater crested terns Thalasseus bergii (efficient flyer, limited diver, and preference for high quality forage fish), little penguins Eudyptula minor (flightless, efficient diver, and preference for high quality forage fish) and silver gulls Chroicocephalus novaehollandiae (efficient flyer, limited diver and generalist diet). We investigated interannual variability in resource partitioning in relation to environmental variability in a climate change hotspot influenced by the warm and intensifying East Australian Current (EAC).

Sampling was conducted from 2012 to 2014 during the austral summer breeding season of seabirds at Montague Island, Australia. Daily seabird movements were monitored using GPS trackers and feather tissues were collected and processed for stable isotope analysis (δ15N and δ13C). Generalised Linear Mixed Models were used to assess how changes in oceanographic conditions influenced space use for each species. Schoener's D and Bayesian mixing models were used to respectively investigate the levels of yearly inter‐specific environmental and trophic niche overlaps.

Crested terns and little penguins were less likely to be observed in warm, saline EAC waters and crested terns and silver gulls had smaller foraging areas on days when more than 30% of available habitat was classified as EAC origin. All species preferred areas with low variability in sea surface temperature (<0.5°C). Terns and penguins occupied similar marine trophic levels, with penguins having larger isotopic niche spaces in 2014 when the EAC was more dominant in the study area. Gulls occupied the lowest trophic level, with the widest niche and lowest interannual variability in niche area.

As the EAC intensifies along the southeast coast of Australia under climate change, interspecific competition for resources may increase, with the greatest impacts on species like little penguins that have relatively restricted foraging ranges. This study suggests that species‐specific biological traits and behavioural plasticity should be accounted for when predicting the effects of climate change on marine species.
Multiple mechanisms associated with loss of seed bank diversity under nitrogen enrichment
Authors: Ma Miaojun , Eskelinen Anu , Zhao Yunpeng , Baskin Carol C. , Xin Chunming , Zhang Panhong , Guo Zengpeng , Zhang Hui , Wang Xuejing , Zhang Pengfei , Du Guozhen
Published: January 2025

The soil seed bank is a hidden community below‐ground and a crucial component of plant biodiversity. Nitrogen (N) enrichment can reduce plant species diversity both in above‐ground plant communities and seed banks. However, the mechanisms by which N enrichment affects soil seed banks are not clear.

We investigated the direct and indirect mechanisms of N enrichment in soil seed banks in an N addition experiment in an alpine meadow on the eastern Tibetan Plateau. We combined above‐ground plant community and litter data, fungal diversity, seed bank surveys and seed rain monitoring, and conducted a seed burial experiment to explore seed viability.

We found that the rate of loss of species diversity was slower in seed banks than in above‐ground plant communities. N enrichment directly affected seed banks by decreasing seed viability and enhancing seed germination. Furthermore, small seeds were more prone to loss of viability and increased seed germination under N enrichment than large seeds. At the same time, N enrichment also indirectly decreased seed bank species richness and number of seeds by altering the composition of the plant community and by increasing the amount of litter and fungal diversity. N enrichment also indirectly decreased number of seeds in seed banks through decreasing number of seeds of seed rain, with increasing negative effects due to higher levels of N enrichment.

Synthesis. Our results provide novel insights into multiple direct and indirect mechanisms that can lead to loss of plant diversity in seed banks under N enrichment, with important ramifications on the maintenance of plant biodiversity, ecosystem resilience and restoration in N‐enriched systems.
Research progress in the application of infrared blanching in fruit and vegetable drying process
Authors: Bouhile Yasmine , Guo Yiting , Wu Bengang , Dai Junjun , Song Chenyu , Pan Zhongli , Ma Haile
Published: January 2025

Fruits and vegetables offer substantial nutritional and health benefits, but their short shelf life necessitates effective preservation methods. Conventional drying techniques, while efficient, often lead to deterioration in food quality. Recent advancements highlight the potential of infrared blanching (IRB) as a preparatory process to improve drying outcomes. This review systematically evaluated the application of IRB for various fruits and vegetables, including tomatoes, potatoes, carrots, mangoes, apples, peaches, strawberries, grapes, and green beans. IRB demonstrated notable improvements in texture, color retention, and nutrient preservation in dried products. Key operational parameters for effective IRB include product thickness (2–5 cm), treatment duration (30 s to several minutes), and the distance from the infrared (IR) emitter (10–30 cm). These factors collectively ensure efficient heat penetration and energy transfer. Regarding IR generators, far‐IR heaters are advantageous due to their uniform heating capabilities, whereas near‐IR heaters deliver rapid heating. Catalytic IR generators are also emerging as promising options for industrial‐scale applications. This review further explores the principles and mechanisms of IRB, particularly its impact on drying kinetics and the retention of vitamins, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. Evidence indicates that IRB can reduce drying times by up to 50%, increase drying rates, and lower energy consumption by approximately 17%, achieving energy efficiency levels of 80%–90%. However, limitations such as the shallow penetration depth of IR radiation remain challenging. Potential solutions, such as the development of hybrid blanching methods, are discussed to optimize the drying process further and enhance the quality of dried fruits and vegetables.
Recent advances in nutraceutical delivery systems constructed by protein–polysaccharide complexes: A systematic review
Authors: Cao Tianqi , Wei Zihao , Xue Changhu
Published: January 2025

Most nutraceuticals have low stability and solubility, making it difficult to achieve ideal bioavailability by directly incorporating into food. Therefore, constructing delivery systems to protect nutraceuticals is an essential strategy. Proteins and polysaccharides have become ideal materials for encapsulating nutraceuticals due to their superior nutritional value, edible safety, and physicochemical properties. This review first introduces the binding methods of protein–polysaccharide complexes and analyzes their respective merits, defects, and applications. Then, various protein–polysaccharide complex‐based nutraceutical delivery systems are systematically summarized, including emulsions, gels, nanoparticles, microcapsules, complexes, and films, which can improve the stability, encapsulation efficiency, and bioaccessibility of nutraceuticals. In addition to traditional globular proteins mentioned in previous reviews, this review also introduces the advantages of another morphology of proteins (protein fibrils with linear structure) in the formation of protein–polysaccharide complexes and the construction of nutraceutical delivery systems. Next, the affecting factors are analyzed to achieve the precise control of protein–polysaccharide complex‐based nutraceutical delivery systems. To improve public acceptability of protein–polysaccharide complex‐based nutraceutical delivery systems, the safety and regulatory aspects are also discussed in detail. Moreover, the applications of such delivery systems are presented, including dietary supplements, food ingredients, food packaging, and food detection. Finally, several promising research directions that had not been provided before are innovatively proposed, including cell‐cultured meat scaffolds, plant‐based meat analogs, three‐dimensional printing inks, and “three reductions” foods. Overall, this review provides guidance for designing protein–polysaccharide complex‐based nutraceutical delivery systems with customized nutrition and superior bioavailability.
A comprehensive review on sustainable strategies for valorization of pepper waste and their potential application
Authors: Sanatombi Keithellakpam
Published: January 2025

Pepper is an economically important crop grown worldwide for consumption as a vegetable and spice. Much waste, including crop plant waste, seeds, stalks, placenta, peels, and other processing byproducts, is generated by consumers during pepper crop production, processing, retail, and households. These peppers byproducts contain numerous bioactive compounds that can be used as ingredients for developing functional foods, nutraceuticals, and other food industries. This review summarizes the recent developments in the valorization of pepper waste. The content of bioactive compounds in different pepper wastes, their extraction processes, biological activities, and applications are discussed and given special attention. Pepper waste and byproducts are rich sources of nutrients and bioactive compounds, such as vitamins, dietary fiber, capsaicinoids, phenolics, flavonoids, and carotenoids, which possess health‐promoting effects, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, anti‐obesity, and anticancer activities. Considering the potential for application of the bioactive compounds in food, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceutical industries, future studies are recommended to develop efficient and economical green extraction techniques and evaluate the sensorial characteristics, bioaccessibility, and safety of the bioactive compounds. Several strategies are also available for developing technologies to valorize pepper waste for possible applications other than in the food and biomedical industries. However, a sustainability check of the technologies and a joint effort by stakeholders at all levels is the key to reducing pepper waste and the sustainable valorization of the waste.
Triage gap? Analysis of admission rates, service utilisation and mortality for First Nations patients compared to non‐First Nations patients, stratified by ED triage category
Authors: Parsonage Lucinda , Gourley Stephen , Ullah Shahid , Johnson Richard
Published: January 2025

Background

First Nations patients often experience poorer health outcomes than non‐First Nations patients. Despite emergency triage primarily focusing on severity, implying comparable outcomes for patients in the same triage group regardless of demographics, the precision of triage for First‐Nations Australians may be undermined by multiple factors, although research in this area is scarce.

Objective

To compare admission rates, service utilisation and mortality for First Nations and non‐First Nations patients, based on their triage categories.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilised data for all adults presenting between January 2016 and May 2021, to Alice Springs Hospital; totalling 175 199 presentations from 39 882 individual patients. Data were analysed for differences between First Nations and non‐First nations patients for outcomes including 30‐day mortality, admission to hospital and admission to ICU.

Results

First Nations patients had significantly higher admission than non‐First Nations patients across all triage categories (P < 0.001). First Nations patients in categories 3 and 4 had a significantly higher 30‐day mortality (P = 0.039, P = 0.045, respectively). First Nations patients in categories 2 and 3 were significantly more likely to be admitted to ICU (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

First Nations patients appear to have worse outcomes than non‐First Nations patients in the same triage category. Socio‐economic factors and high discharge against advice rates from wards may explain the significantly higher admission rate. Under‐recognition of serious illness at triage could be attributed to communication issues or a ‘well bias’. The results raise many questions and further investigation is required.
Analysis of Risk Factors for Gastric Cancer and Precancerous Lesions: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Gao Meng Jie , Li Song Bo , Zhu Xiao Jing , Zhang Li Feng , Chen Min , Shi Yong Quan
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To investigate the correlation between gastric xanthoma (GX) and precancerous lesions (PCL) and gastric cancer (GC), and to explore other potential risk factors for PCL and GC in northwest China.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted from September 2022 to September 2023 at Xijing Hospital, Air Force Medical University (Xi'an, Shaanxi Province, China). The patients who underwent gastroscopy were enrolled and divided into the chronic gastritis (CG) group (n = 423), PCL group (n = 422), and GC group (n = 415). The variables were selected through univariate analysis, including demographic information, dietary habits, lifestyle, gastroscopic findings, and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to analyze the factors associated with PCL and GC, and odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were calculated.

Results

GX was more prevalent in the PCL group (14.93%) and the GC group (19.76%) than in the CG group (6.15%). Multivariate analysis revealed that age ≥ 50 years, male gender, rural residence, H. pylori infection, family history of GC, GX, and hypertension were independent risk factors for GC and PCL. Furthermore, a diet high in salt and spice, coupled with daily intake of less than 100 g of fresh fruits, might be associated with the occurrence of GC.

Conclusion

Age ≥ 50 years, male gender, rural residence, family history of GC and H. pylori infection, presence of GX, and a history of hypertension may be risk factors for PCL and GC.
Microbes as Resources to Remove PPCPs and Improve Water Quality
Authors: Demaria Francesca , Suleiman Marcel , Corvini Philippe , Junier Pilar
Published: January 2025

The inadequate removal of pharmaceuticals and personal care products (PPCPs) by traditional wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) poses a significant environmental and public health challenge. Residual PPCPs find their way into aquatic ecosystems, leading to bioaccumulation in aquatic biota, the dissemination of antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs), and contamination of both water sources and vegetables. These persistent pollutants can have negative effects on human health, ranging from antibiotic resistance development to endocrine disruption. To mitigate these risks, there is a growing interest in exploiting microorganisms and their enzymes for bioremediation purposes. By harnessing the metabolic capabilities of microbial communities, PPCPs can be efficiently degraded, transformed, or sequestered in water systems. Additionally, microbial communities exhibit remarkable adaptability and resilience to diverse PPCP contaminants, further underscoring their potential as sustainable and cost‐effective solutions for water treatment. This review explores the promise of microbial bioremediation as an approach to addressing the complex challenges posed by persistent PPCP contamination, emphasising its potential to safeguard both environmental integrity and human well‐being.
Postoperative Lung Function Advantages in Pulmonary Segmentectomy for Early‐Stage Lung Cancer
Authors: Crisafulli Ernesto , Micheletto Claudio , Campisi Alessio , Vocale Emanuele , Schiena Chiara , Sartori Giulia , Gaburro Gianluca , Felici Elide , Infante Maurizio
Published: January 2025

In early‐stage lung cancer, lung function appears to be less compromised after segmentectomy than lobectomy, though the advantage seems modest. We aimed to re‐assess postoperative lung function in surgical patients, with a particular focus on the diffusion capacity for carbon monoxide (DLCO). We evaluated all patients who underwent either lobectomy or segmentectomy for T1a‐c lung cancer at our center between March 2016 and March 2023. From January to June 2024, patients who had undergone segmentectomy, along with a matched cohort of patients who had undergone lobectomy, were invited for a repeat lung function evaluation. Patients were matched 1:1 based on age, sex, surgical approach, year in which the procedure was performed, and tumor location. Lung function testing data including DLCO were then compared to preoperative measures. During the study period, 480 patients received a lobectomy, and 97 received a segmentectomy. Complete lung function evaluation for the study was available for 52 patients (26 matched pairs). The median time from lung resection to repeat spirometry was 35 months. A modest reduction of lung function measures was observed in the segmentectomy group. Conversely, all lung function measures, including DLCO, were significantly impaired in the lobectomy group. In early‐stage lung cancer, patients who perform segmentectomy demonstrated better long‐term lung function preservation compared to those who underwent lobectomy. Whenever feasible, segmentectomy should be considered the procedure of choice for early‐stage lung cancer patients.
Genome‐wide association studies on body weight in Loumen ducks
Authors: Liu Hongxiang , Wang Yifei , Zhu Chunhong , Wang Zhicheng , Song Weitao , Xu Wenjuan , Tao Zhiyun , Zhang Shuangjie , Li Huifang , Liu Honglin
Published: January 2025

Body weight is an important trait associated with meat production in the poultry industry. To better understand the genetic basis of body weights in ducks, we estimated genetic parameters and performed a genome‐wide association study. The phenotypic values of body weights at ages 0 weeks (bw0) and 8 weeks (bw8) were collected individually from 199 Loumen ducks, and their genotypes were assayed with whole genome re‐sequencing. The heritability of bw0 and bw8 are 0.32 and 0.43, respectively, and the genetic correlation of bw0 and bw8 was very low (−7.256e‐5). The genome‐wide association study results identified eight SNPs significantly associated with bw0 and bw8. The two and nine genes nearest to the significant SNPs were selected as candidate genes: PIK3R5 and MYH10 for bw0, and LOC119717016, RHOJ, PPP2R5E, BRF1, LOC106018961, NUDT14, JAG2, CEP170B, and AKT1 for bw8. Together, the SNPs and candidate genes identified in this study advance understanding of the complex genetic architecture of bw0 and bw8, and provide important clues for future implementation of a genomic selection program in Loumen ducks.
Higher testosterone level is associated with improved cognitive functions in Klinefelter syndrome
Authors: Simonetti Luciane , Ferreira Lucas G. A. , Rocco Isadora S. , de Mello Claudia Berlim , Dias da Silva Magnus R.
Published: January 2025

Klinefelter syndrome (KS) is a common sex chromosome aneuploidy affecting one to two per 1000 live male births. Testosterone therapy and neuropsychological support can enhance the quality of life in affected individuals. While cognitive deficits have been documented in Klinefelter syndrome, the influence of hormonal variability on cognitive profiles remains underexplored. This study aimed to determine whether testosterone levels correlate with neurocognitive functions in Klinefelter syndrome individuals. This cross‐sectional study involved a heterogeneous clinical sample from a single tertiary referral hospital. Participants: Thirty Klinefelter syndrome individuals were enrolled, being 21 with 47, XXY without neurological comorbidities, aged 17–65 years. Participants underwent blood tests for total testosterone, free testosterone, estradiol, sex‐hormone‐binding globulin, follicle‐stimulating hormone, luteinizing hormone, and anti‐Müllerian hormone. A comprehensive neuropsychological assessment was also conducted, covering intellectual quotient (Wechsler Scale) and higher‐order cognitive functions (attention, executive functions, language, memory, and visuoconstructional abilities). Neuropsychological performance was notably better in Klinefelter syndrome individuals with higher levels of testosterone. Spearman's test revealed significant correlations between total testosterone, free testosterone, and gonadal status measured by free testosterone/luteinizing hormone and free testosterone/estradiol ratios and cognitive flexibility tasks. The mean age of participants was 33.1 years (SD = 14.0), and free testosterone/luteinizing hormone and free testosterone/estradiol measures were correlated with set‐shifting, verbal memory, visual functions, and adaptive behavior domains, including communication, daily living, and motor skills. The free testosterone:estradiol ratio was also consistently associated with total intellectual quotient, verbal comprehension, perceptual organization, and processing speed indexes. The study highlights the positive correlation between testosterone levels and cognitive functions in Klinefelter syndrome males. These insights reinforce the role of testosterone in neurocognitive development, suggesting the potential benefits of testosterone therapy in managing cognitive deficits in Klinefelter syndrome. More extensive confirmatory studies are necessary to substantiate these findings and to explore the mechanisms involved.
Causes of mortality and morbidity in the endangered southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus obesulus)
Authors: Breidahl AJ , Jansen E , McKee E , Maclagan S , Charles J , Samuel J , Beveridge I , Whiteley P , Traub R , Hufschmid J
Published: January 2025

The southern brown bandicoot (Isoodon obesulus obesulus) is a small, endangered, Australian, ground‐dwelling marsupial. Apart from isolated necropsy reports, there has not been a systematic investigation into the health and causes of death for this species.

Objective

To investigate and document the causes of death and the parasites of free‐ranging populations of southern brown bandicoots in southern, central Victoria, Australia.

Methods

Gross necropsy, histopathology and identification of ectoparasites and endoparasites were performed on 62 dead southern brown bandicoots opportunistically collected from July 2011 to January 2018. Molecular methods were used to detect and genetically characterise the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in select tissues.

Results

The vast majority of animals died as a result of either motor vehicle trauma or predation (45/62). A further seven bandicoots died from varying causes with either diagnostic gross or microscopic evidence of pathology, and there were five ejected pouch young. The cause of death was undetermined in another five cases. Toxoplasma gondii was detected in one southern brown bandicoot, which demonstrated polymorphisms in the B1 and SAG3 genes. This is the first definitively documented case of T. gondii infection in this species in Victoria. All of the identified parasites have previously been reported in southern brown bandicoots, apart from a metastrongyloid lungworm, which is reported here for the first time.

Conclusions

Motor vehicle trauma and predation are highlighted as causes of fatality that likely threaten these populations of southern brown bandicoots. Further investigation into the role that disease, particularly toxoplasmosis, may be playing in southern brown bandicoot population decline is recommended.
Natural history of the small snake Epictia munoai (Scolecophidia; Leptotyphlopidae): Reproductive cycle, sexual maturity and activity pattern
Authors: Mario‐Da‐Rosa Conrado , Brum Amanda J. C. , Loebens Luiza , Santos Tiago G. , Cechin Sonia Z.
Published: January 2025

Epictia munoai is a small scolecophidian snake from the subtropical region of South America. It inhabits under rocks of preserved environments. Since basic information concerning the biology of this snake remains unknown, we aimed at presenting information on age, reproductive cycle, and daily and annual activity patterns of E. munoai from Southernmost Brazil. Males and females of E. munoai becomes sexually mature from 3 to 4 years of age, and presents a life expectancy of up to 9 or 10 years. The breeding cycle at the individual level is cyclical and discontinuous, and seasonal at the population level, with breed season from late winter to late spring. Epictia munoai is a diurnal snake, active under rocks during the hottest periods of the day, especially during the spring in southern latitudes. Our results provide new and unprecedented information about the natural history of a small species of South American fossorial snake. Information like this is extremely important as it helps to understand the life history of a species, in addition to serving as a basis for studies in areas such as population ecology, historical demography, phylogeography and conservation biology.
Welfare improving common ownership in successive oligopolies: The role of the input market
Authors: Matsumura Toshihiro , Henry Wang X. , Zeng Chenhang
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the welfare consequences of common ownership in a successive vertical oligopoly, in which upstream firms produce a homogeneous input and compete in quantities, while downstream firms produce differentiated final products and compete either in quantities or prices. Common ownership in both markets internalizes a negative horizontal externality and a positive vertical externality. The interaction between these externalities shapes market outcomes. Our main results are summarized as follows. If the downstream market is monopolized, common ownership always improves welfare. However, if the upstream market is monopolized, common ownership benefits welfare under Bertrand competition but harms it under Cournot competition when the downstream market is competitive. Further, greater upstream competition weakens the pro‐competitive effect. Under Bertrand (Cournot) competition, common ownership harms welfare unless the upstream is (both upstream and downstream markets are) highly concentrated. These results suggest that whether common ownership benefits consumers and social welfare is crucially dependent on the competitiveness of upstream and downstream markets and the competition mode in the downstream market.
Organoids in Haematologic Research: Advances and Future Directions
Authors: Chang Liangzheng , Li Lu , Han Yuling , Cheng Hui , Yang Liuliu
Published: January 2025

Organoid technology, as a revolutionary biomedical tool, has shown immense potential in haematological research in recent years. By using three‐dimensional (3D) cell culture systems constructed from pluripotent stem cells (PSCs) or adult stem cells (ASCs), organoids can highly mimic the characteristics of in vivo organs, thereby offering significant potential for investigating human organ development, disease processes and treatment strategies. This review introduces the development of organoids and focuses on their progress in haematological research, including haematopoietic‐related organoids, immune‐related organoids and organoids used for studying blood system diseases. It discusses the prospects, challenges and future outlook of organoids in the field of haematology. This review aims to provide the latest advancements and future directions of organoid technology in haematological research, offering references and insights into further exploration in this field.
TRAPPC2l Participates in Male Germ Cell Development by Regulating Cell Division
Authors: Wang Mengyue , Li Jiayi , Liu Bowen , Shen Zhiming , Chen Min , Cui Xiuhong , Liu Hongbin , Gao Fei , Zhao Han
Published: January 2025

TRAPPC2L is a core subunit of the Transport Protein Particle (TRAPP) complex, which is involved in vesicle transport and autophagy. Mutations in Trappc2l gene are associated with neurodevelopmental disorders, characterised by severe neurodevelopmental delays and varying degrees of muscle abnormalities. In this study, we found that the knockout of Trappc2l did not cause developmental abnormalities in both male and female mice. However, the male mice were completely infertile. Histological examination revealed that germ cell syncytial structures with multiple nuclear were formed in Trappc2l knockout mice from embryonic day 17.5 (E17.5) and the number and size of these structures gradually were increased at later developmental stages. The germ cells were completely lost at 2 weeks after birth. Further study found that germ cell syncytial structures were most likely formed by abnormal cell division but not cell fusion. We also found that meiosis‐associated genes Stra8 and Sycp3 were expressed in Trappc2l‐deficient germ cells during the embryonic stage. Our study demonstrated that Trappc2l is essential for germ cell development in male mice which is probably involved in keeping the mitotic quiescent state of male germ cells during the embryonic stage.
Cutaneous reactions to vaccination
Authors: Kussini Jacqueline , Mühlenbein Stefan , Didona Dario , Pfützner Wolfgang
Published: January 2025

Vaccination is a fundamental principle of preventive health care. Administration of the vaccine, which contains the antigen(s) of a pathogen, activates the immune system and provides protection against infection. The immunogenicity and allergenicity of a vaccine may lead to various adverse reactions, depending on the responsiveness and susceptibility of the vaccinated individual. Cutaneous adverse events are among the most common and can manifest as various local or generalized vaccination reactions. Understanding their pathogenesis and clinical manifestations is essential for therapy, for further diagnostic clarification if necessary, and for managing any booster vaccination that may be required. Appropriate dermatological expertise therefore plays a crucial role in managing patients with a history of vaccination reactions.
Changes in marital relationships over the course of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Vanterpool Karen B. , Francis Heather M. , Greer Kirsten M. , Moscovici Zoe , Graham Cynthia A. , Sanders Stephanie A. , Milhausen Robin R. , Yarber William L.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The aim of this study was to document changes in marital relationships over the course of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Background

Research has suggested both positive and negative effects of the pandemic on marital relationships, but few studies have explored changes in relationship quality at different phases of the pandemic.

Method

Online survey data were collected from married individuals (n = 3,221, mean age 39.5 years, SD = 5.61) living in the United States at three time points during the pandemic: April 2020, December 2020–January 2021, and August–September, 2021. We report the findings on responses to an open‐ended question: “Please explain how your relationship has changed over the course of the coronavirus.” Inductive qualitative content analysis was conducted.

Results

Most participants reported some changes in their relationships; positive changes were more prevalent than negative changes across the three time periods.

Discussion

Our findings are consistent with previous literature but also provide new insights into how marriages may have been differentially affected at early versus later stages of the pandemic.

Implications

Clinical implications of the findings are discussed, including specific recommendations for therapists working with couples.
Protein biochemistry and engineering drive the development of a carbonic anhydrase‐based carbon dioxide sequestration strategy
Authors: Pollegioni Loredano , Molla Gianluca
Published: January 2025

The sequestration of carbon dioxide using carbonic anhydrase (CA) is one of the most effective methods for mitigating global warming. The burning of fossil fuels releases large quantities of flue gas; because of its high temperature and of the alkaline conditions required for CaCO3 precipitation in the mineralization process, thermo‐alkali‐stable CAs are needed. In this context, Manyumwa et al. conducted a biochemical characterization of three CAs derived from thermophilic bacteria. They then employed a rational design approach to enhance the specific activity and stability of the enzyme from the hydrothermal vent species Persephonella sp. KM09‐Lau‐8.
Recovery and Degradation Drive Changes in the Dispersal Capacity of Stream Macroinvertebrate Communities
Authors: Cano‐Barbacil Carlos , Sinclair James S. , Welti Ellen A. R. , Haase Peter
Published: January 2025

Freshwater ecosystems face significant threats, including pollution, habitat loss, invasive species, and climate change. To address these challenges, management strategies and restoration efforts have been broadly implemented. Across Europe, such efforts have resulted in overall improvements in freshwater biodiversity, but recovery has stalled or failed to occur in many localities, which may be partly caused by the limited dispersal capacity of many species. Here, we used a comprehensive dataset comprising 1327 time series of freshwater macroinvertebrate communities ranging from 1968 to 2021 across 23 European countries to investigate whether dispersal capacity changes with the ecological quality of riverine systems. Sites experiencing improvements in ecological quality exhibited a net gain in species and tended to have macroinvertebrate communities containing species with stronger dispersal capacity (e.g., active aquatic and aerial dispersers, species with frequent propensity to drift, and insects with larger wings). In contrast, sites experiencing degradation of ecological quality exhibited a net loss of species and a reduction in the proportion of strong dispersers. However, this response varied extensively among countries and local sites, with some improving sites exhibiting no parallel gains in macroinvertebrates with higher dispersal capacity. Dispersal capacity of the local species pool can affect the success of freshwater ecosystem restoration projects. Management strategies should focus on enhancing landscape connectivity to create accessible “source” areas and refugia for sensitive taxa, especially as climate change reshapes habitat suitability. Additionally, biodiversity initiatives must incorporate adaptive decision‐making approaches that account for the site‐specific responses of macroinvertebrate communities to changes in ecological quality.
Comparison of Single Knee Arthroplasty and Bilateral Knee Arthroplasty in Haemophiliacs During a Single Operation: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Zhang Yi , Pei Hang , Wang Chao , Wang Guanyin , Shen Zan , Hua Jiang , He Bangjian
Published: January 2025

Background

Arthroplasty is the standard treatment for end‐stage haemophilic knee arthritis; however, the choice between single knee arthroplasty (SKA) and bilateral knee arthroplasty (BKA) in a single operation remains controversial due to the risks specific to haemophiliacs.

Methods

Two independent researchers conducted searches across CNKI, CBM, Wanfang, PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, and Web of Science, with the last search performed on 15 October 2024. Study results include joint function, complication and various cost. Literature quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale (NOS). Outcomes were evaluated with fixed‐effects or random‐effects models, while heterogeneity and publication bias were also assessed.

Results

Nine studies involving 309 haemophilia patients were included, with 166 in SKA group and 143 in BKA group. No statistically significant differences were observed between the SKA and BKA groups in range of motion (95% CI: −0.22 [−3.57, 3.13], p = 0.90), Hospital for Special Surgery score (95% CI: −2.13 [−4.89, 0.64], p = 0.13), flexion degree (95% CI: −2.38 [−7.22, 2.46], p = 0.33), cost (95% CI: −0.24 [−0.94, 0.45], p = 0.49), complication rate (95% CI: 1.31 [−0.79, 2.17], p = 0.29), hospital stay (95% CI: 0.25 [−2.06, 2.57], p = 0.83), and coagulation factor usage (p = 0.49). However, The SKA group outperformed the BKA group in terms of operative time, postoperative drainage, and transfusion volume (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our study indicates that, apart from differences in operative time, transfusion volume, and blood loss, SKA and BKA show no significant differences in postoperative joint function, complication rates, or costs.
Selection effects in the births of mutual funds
Authors: de Souza André
Published: January 2025

Newborn funds disproportionately hold popular stocks, representing long‐lived strategic choices. This suggests that when choosing strategies in which to launch new funds, families do not consider only expectations for their own performance but also consider investor sentiment toward those strategies. The two motives for entry result in an interaction effect between competitive entry and strategy popularity, which affects performance and flows for both existing and newborn funds. Newborn funds' expectations for performance are partly driven by fund manager skill in those strategies, but this is not the only factor, leaving a role for time‐varying investment opportunities.