bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing dynamic quantum crystallography: enhanced models for accurate structures and thermodynamic properties
Authors: Butkiewicz Helena , Chodkiewicz Michał , Madsen Anders Ø. , Hoser Anna A.
Published: January 2025

X-ray diffraction (XRD) has evolved significantly since its inception, becoming a crucial tool for material structure characterization. Advancements in theory, experimental techniques, diffractometers and detection technology have led to the acquisition of highly accurate diffraction patterns, surpassing previous expectations. Extracting comprehensive information from these patterns necessitates different models due to the influence of both electron density and thermal motion on diffracted beam intensity. While electron-density modelling has seen considerable progress [e.g. the Hansen–Coppens multipole model and Hirshfeld Atom Refinement (HAR)], the treatment of thermal motion has remained largely unchanged. We have developed a novel method that combines the strengths of the advanced charge-density models [Aspherical Atom Models (AAMs), such as HAR or the Transferable Aspherical Atom Model (TAAM)] and the thermal motion model (normal modes refinement, NoMoRe). We denote this approach AAM_NoMoRe, wherein instead of refining routine anisotropic displacement parameters (ADPs) against single-crystal X-ray diffraction data, we refine the frequencies obtained from periodic density functional theory (DFT) calculations. In this work, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this model by presenting its application to model compounds, such as alanine, xylitol, naphthalene and glycine polymorphs, highlighting the influence of our method on the H-atom positions and shape of their ADPs, which are comparable with neutron data. We observe a significant decrease in the similarity index for H-atom ADPs after AAM_NoMoRe in comparison to only AAM, aligning more closely with neutron data. Due to the use of aspherical form factors (AAM), our approach demonstrates better fitting performance, as indicated by consistently lower wR2 values compared to the Independent Atom Model (IAM) refinement and a significant decrease compared to the traditional NoMoRe model. Furthermore, we present the estimation of a key thermodynamic property, namely, heat capacity, and demonstrate its alignment with experimental calorimetric data.
Syntheses and structures of two coordination polymers formed by Ni(cyclam)2+ cations and sulfate anions
Authors: Tsymbal Liudmyla V. , Andriichuk Irina L. , Bahrin Lucian G. , Lampeka Yaroslaw D.
Published: January 2025

The asymmetric units of catena-poly[[(1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane-κ4
N
1,N
4,N
8,N
11)nickel(II)]-μ2-sulfato-κ2
O
3:O
4], [Ni(SO4)(C10H24N4)]
n
(I), and catena-poly[[(1,4,8,11-tetraazacyclotetradecane-κ4
N
1,N
4,N
8,N
11)nickel(II)]-μ2-sulfato-κ2
O
3:O
4] hemi[4,4′,4′′,4′′′-(2,2′,4,4′,6,6′-hexamethyl-[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,3′,5,5′-tetrayl)tetrabenzoic acid] nonahydrate], {[Ni(SO4)(C10H24N4)]2·C46H38O8·18H2O}
n
(II), consist of two crystallographically unique centrosymmetric macrocyclic dications and a sulfate dianion. In II it includes additionally a molecule of the undissociated acid (2,2′,4,4′,6,6′-hexamethyl[1,1′-biphenyl]-3,3′,5,5′-tetrayl)tetra(benzoic acid) located on a crystallographic twofold axis and nine highly disordered water molecules of crystallization. In both compounds, the metal ions are coordinated in the equatorial plane by the four secondary N atoms of the macrocyclic ligand, which adopts the most energetically stable trans-III conformation. Two O atoms of the sulfate anions occupy the trans-axial positions resulting in a slightly tetragonally distorted trans-NiN4O2 octahedral coordination geometry. The crystals of both compounds are composed of parallel coordination polymeric chains running along the [101] and [100] directions in I and II, respectively. The distances between the neighboring metal ions in the chains are significantly different [6.5121 (6) Å in I and 6.0649 (3) Å in II] and this peculiarity is explained by the different spatial directivity of the Ni—O coordination bonds (different S—O—Ni angles). As a result of the C—H...O hydrogen bonds between the methylene groups of the macrocyclic ligands and the non-coordinated O atoms of the sulfate anion, the coordination-polymeric chains in I are arranged in the two-dimensional layers oriented parallel to the (010) and (101) planes, the intersection of which provides the three-dimensional coherence of the crystals. The three-dimensional supramolecular structure of the crystals II is determined by the network of strong hydrogen bonds formed by the carboxylic acid and the non-coordinated O atoms of the sulfate anions.
Linking job crafting and self-leadership to productivity: a moderated-mediation of personal initiative, person-job fit and person-organization fit
Authors: Kidron Aviv , Rispler Clara
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to analyze the effect of job crafting and self-leadership on human capital productivity with the moderated-mediation effect of personal initiative as a mediator and person-job fit and person-organization fit as moderators.

Design/methodology/approach

An online two-wave survey targeted 253 science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and social science graduates.

Findings

The research model was confirmed mainly in that personal initiative fully mediated the relationship between self-leadership, job crafting and perceived employee productivity. In addition, the moderated-mediation effect of the person-job fit on this relationship was partially confirmed, while that of the person-organization fit was not.

Originality/value

By interweaving the conservation of resources theory with the self-determination theory, this study’s results provide a novel theoretical justification for the dynamic process of human capital, personal resources and personal initiative as a type of intrinsic motivation. The variance between the effects of person-job fit and person-organization fit provides new insights regarding the changes in the work environment where individuals feel more connected to their careers and jobs than their organizations.
Evaluating the progress and impact of Shodhganga: enhancements, challenges and future directions for India’s centralized ETD repository
Authors: Panda Saroja Kumar , Dey Somyajeet , Bhatt Atul , Satapathy Aparna
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper critically evaluates Shodhganga, India’s centralized digital repository for electronic theses and dissertations (ETDs). It explores the repository’s impact, open access policy and the roles of participating universities and the implementing agency.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a comprehensive analysis of Shodhganga’s features, including advancements in its user interface, participation rates and infrastructure. It reviews the repository’s progress and contributions from various institutions and compares Shodhganga with prominent international ETD repositories.

Findings

Significant enhancements have been observed in Shodhganga’s user interface and infrastructure. The repository has experienced increased contributions from universities, Centrally Funded Technical Institutes and Institutions of National Importance, with the highest number of theses submitted in 2023. Social science theses constitute a substantial portion of these submissions.

Research limitations/implications

The research underscores the necessity for improvements in Shodhganga’s software and hardware infrastructure. It offers recommendations to address identified issues and suggests technological advancements to align with modern user needs and sustainable development goals.

Originality/value

This paper provides unique insights into Shodhganga’s current challenges and offers actionable recommendations for future enhancements. It contributes to the understanding of digital repository management and its impact on academic research accessibility.
Examination of the effects of technology orientation, technology innovation strategy and strategic orientation on information technology companies in technoparks
Authors: Adiguzel Zafer , Sonmez Cakir Fatma , Karaaslan Nimet
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of the research is to examine the effects of technology orientation (TO) on information technology companies, not as a dimension of strategic orientation (SO), but as an independent variable and together with technology innovation strategy (TIS).

Design/methodology/approach

In the research, technoparks operating in the province of Istanbul were determined as the main population. The questionnaire used was applied to the participants working in senior and middle management positions in the companies in these technoparks. Questionnaires were sent via e-mail to the participants (by random sampling method) after obtaining the necessary permissions. In total, the data of 665 participants were included in the analysis. SmartPLS program was used for analysis.

Findings

As a result of the analysis, it is supported by hypotheses that TO, TIS and SO have positive effects on performance variables.

Research limitations/implications

However, when looking at the situation that researchers should consider in terms of the limitations of the research, the data were collected only from information technology companies located in technoparks in Istanbul. Therefore, it may not be correct to make a general judgment.

Practical implications

Because future technology investments among information technology companies are important, it can be argued according to the results of the analysis that TO and technology innovation strategies are important in terms of gaining competitive advantage. At the same time, it is supported by hypotheses that SO is important to be successful in the field of technology against competitors.

Social implications

The research emphasizes how companies that are proactive in adopting and integrating new technologies can achieve superior performance results. A detailed perspective is presented on how companies can benefit from SO to maximize the return they receive from their technological investments. Additionally, focusing on technoparks as unique environments that facilitate the integration of industrial and technological resources, the research emphasizes the importance of such ecosystems in promoting innovation and economic development.

Originality/value

The research is important research that will contribute to the literature in terms of collecting and examining data from information technology companies in technoparks and examining the effects of TO and TIS of information technology companies in technoparks.
Cultivating green pioneers: examining the antecedents of sustainable entrepreneurial intent in higher education
Authors: Alimehmeti Genc , Ndoka Ervisa , Paletta Angelo
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the various factors influencing students’ intentions toward sustainable entrepreneurship by investigating the case of Albania. Specifically, among the intention antecedents, it explores the role of environmental awareness and green consumption commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is created to integrate the theory of planned behavior with additional sustainability-oriented factors, providing a comprehensive examination of the factors influencing higher education students’ intentions to embark on sustainable entrepreneurial ventures. A questionnaire was designed and administered to a sample of 411 third-year bachelor students at the University of Tirana, Albania, during the 2023–2024 academic year. This study posits nine hypotheses and uses structural equation modeling to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of self-efficacy, environmental awareness, education, entrepreneurial knowledge and green consumption commitment on sustainable entrepreneurship intentions.

Findings

The findings confirm that self-efficacy, personal attitude and subjective norms directly impact students’ intentions to engage in sustainable entrepreneurial activities. In addition, the paper finds that environmental awareness influences commitment to green consumption and indirectly affects sustainable entrepreneurship intentions among students. Entrepreneurial education and knowledge have a significant indirect effect as well, highlighting the crucial role of higher education institutions in fostering an environment conducive to sustainable entrepreneurial initiatives through curriculum reorientation toward Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and promoting environmental stewardship.

Originality/value

This research enriches the sustainable entrepreneurship literature by shedding light on the antecedents of sustainable entrepreneurship intention among students, particularly in a developing country like Albania. It offers novel insights into the integral role of HEIs in nurturing future entrepreneurs equipped to tackle environmental challenges through innovative solutions. Furthermore, the study’s findings emphasize the importance of incorporating sustainability-focused values into educational frameworks, presenting a case for policy changes and curriculum development supporting sustainable development.
A qualitative evaluation of the social work curriculum: focusing on sustainable development and ecological justice
Authors: Akinci Merve , Yildirim Filiz , Kocak Selin , Turkoglu Bilge , Demir Busra
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The extant social work literature reveals the need for transformation in the social work curriculum to strengthen its ecological orientation. Focusing on this orientation, this study aims to evaluate the knowledge, skills and value base of the curriculum from the perspective of social work academics in the context of sustainable development and ecological justice.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative case study recruited 11 participants via the criterion-based sampling method using the snowball technique. In-depth interviews were conducted for data collection. A thematic analysis of the data was conducted using MAXQDA 2022.

Findings

The findings revealed that education based on knowledge, skills and values in the human-centered work curriculum, which focuses only on the human component in the social work curriculum, is a significant obstacle to strengthening the curriculum’s ecological orientation. To achieve such an orientation, human-nature interaction should be emphasized under all three pillars, and ecological justice and sustainable development should be integrated into the social work curriculum.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first attempt in the field to focus on “ecological justice” and “sustainable development” as a way to strengthen the ecological orientation within the knowledge, skills and value base of the social work curriculum.
Moderating role of perceived justice between employee incivility and consequences of brand hate
Authors: Mushtaq Fakhra Malik , Hamzah Zalfa Laili Binti , Ghazali Ezlika Binti Mohd
Published: January 2025

Purpose

During the past decade, marketing literature has focused on investigating the dark side of consumer emotions and their behavior. This demands further research for a more in-depth understanding. Hence, drawing on affective events theory, this study aims to examine employee incivility (rude and poor behavior) and its consequences on brand hate. Furthermore, the authors also introduced perceived justice as a moderator to buffer the impact of brand hate.

Design/methodology/approach

A scenario-based survey was used to collect data from 212 consumers from the airline industry. Structural equation modeling was performed through SmartPLS.

Findings

Findings revealed that employee incivility instigates brand hate. Results further showed that attitudinal brand hate influences brand opposition and detachment, whereas behavioral brand hate only influences brand detachment. Additionally, perceived justice moderates the negative relationship between employee incivility and brand hate. Overall, the results showed that employee incivility can trigger brand hate, and service recovery can reduce the negative impact of employee behavior on brand hate in the aviation sector.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to brand hate and service recovery literature.

Practical implications

This study provides deep insights into how employee behavior can cause brand hate and how recovery strategies can help buffer its impact.

Originality/value

In the existing literature, limited studies have focused on organizational factors instigating brand hate. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to associate employee incivility and brand hate.
Exploring postgraduate supervision barriers through interviews with early-career supervisors in the field of accountancy
Authors: Strydom Nicolaas , De Wet Milan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore the barriers to successful supervision experienced by early-career supervisors in the field of accountancy through in-depth interviews.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 13 semi-structured interviews were conducted with early-career supervisors in an accounting department at a comprehensive residential university in South Africa. The interviews were transcribed, and themes were identified through thematic analysis.

Findings

Four barriers to successful supervision were identified: (1) the tension between work and research responsibilities; (2) the supervisor’s perceived lack of research skills and knowledge; (3) uncertainty about the supervision process and (4) a poorly defined student-supervisor relationship. The barriers are explored from the perspective of adult learning theory.

Originality/value

Early-career supervisors experience specific challenges in providing quality supervision. The existing literature has not adequately addressed these challenges. The study makes a novel contribution to the body of supervision literature by focusing on the challenges experienced by early-career supervisors within the field of accountancy.
Preliminary testing of a mechanism-based gait training device with able-bodied individuals
Authors: Clinton Wilson B.V. , Mohan Varma D.S.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Millions of people throughout the world have walking disabilities. Gait training is essential for helping people with locomotor disabilities regain their ability to walk and to improve their quality of life.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assesses the viability of a novel gait training device with able-bodied individuals and gauges the alterations that need to be made in the device for conducting trials with patients. It is a preliminary, single-gender, viability study with able-bodied individuals.

Findings

Aboutten able-bodied participants (all male, age: 28 ± 4 years old) completed the study. Almost all participants were able to complete the test. Participants undertook the training on the gait training device, and data were collected through subjective questionnaires based on safety, comfort, efficiency and satisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

The device requires additional cushioning and support as disabled patients are heavier than able-bodied individuals. The duration of the trial is kept short and can be prolonged when comfort-related issues are addressed. Gait issues are most observed in the older population. However, the device was primarily tested on a younger population to avoid risks.

Practical implications

The feedback from the participants will be used to make the required design changes for further clinical testing.

Social implications

Our work aims at developing a low-cost alternative for the expensive robotic gait training devices, as most clinics in the developing world are in need of affordable solutions for treating disabled patients.

Originality/value

The preliminary testing of the gait training device was successful and showed promise for further development of the device for training spinal injury and/or stroke patients.
Beyond complexity: do alms tax (zakat) law intricacies justify non-compliance behaviour?
Authors: Bin-Nashwan Saeed Awadh
Published: January 2025

Purpose

While the foundations of alms tax (zakat) regulations remain firmly rooted in solid Islamic law (Shariah), the landscape of zakat laws has recently witnessed the emergence of nuanced issues and complexities that warrant careful consideration and scholarly investigation. Such intricacies might lead to a lack of compliance with the regulatory and legal framework many Muslim countries have implemented. Thus, this paper aims to empirically delve into the role of zakat law intricacies in compliance behaviour and how it can strengthen the impact of crucial socio-economic motivations, including perceived zakat governance and institutional credibility.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawn from a validated socio-economic model, this study used a quantitative approach, using a self-administered survey distributed among SME entrepreneurs. SmartPLS was used to yield meaningful results.

Findings

Results indicate that the more intricate the zakat law and regulations, the lower zakat compliance tends to be. However, socio-economic motivations (zakat governance and institutional credibility) positively drive the compliance behaviour of zakat payers. Interestingly, socio-economic factors lose their positive effect on zakat compliance in the face of zakat law intricacies.

Practical implications

As the contemporary world grapples with dynamic social and economic challenges and evolving legal frameworks, the landscape of zakat laws and regulations finds itself at a crossroads. While the essence of zakat remains unchanged, modern contexts have introduced new dimensions that require the re-valuation of existing regulatory frameworks. From the intricacies of cross-border zakat to digital assets and emerging financial instruments, zakat governance is undergoing a profound transformation. Therefore, the outcomes that emerged from this study provide deeper insights for policymakers and practitioners in the Islamic world into how some potential interventions can enhance the zakat legal framework. Simplification initiatives, educational campaigns and an effective zakat governance structure aligned strictly with Islamic law can offer a nuanced understanding of zakat payers’ compliance behaviour.

Originality/value

The novelty of this research lies in its focused analysis of zakat law intricacies – a topic that has been overlooked in the literature despite its critical importance.
How financially literate are Indian Muslims? An investigation
Authors: Molla Samim Aktar , Maji Sumit Kumar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to assess the financial literacy (FL) level among Indian Muslims. Moreover, the effort was also directed towards determining the various factors affecting such FL.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data on 5,247 respondents from the Financial Inclusion Insight 2017 database was used. FL was measured based on the Standard and Poor’s Global FinLit survey questions. The study used the generalised structural equation model along with relevant statistical and econometric methods.

Findings

The level of FL amongst the Muslims in India was noticed to be poor and highly heterogeneous. Age, marital status, gender, occupation, educational attainment, location, family size, financial inclusion and economic status emerged as the determinants of such FL.

Originality/value

The exploration of FL and the underlying determinants amongst the Indian Muslims has received limited attention in the extant scholarship considering their socio-economic backwardness. In addressing this research gap, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, the study attempts to provide a comprehensive insight into such aspects using a large sample of Indian Muslims for the first time.
Managerial insights on sustainable practices in today's business: mapping economic, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions and their organizational outcomes
Authors: Ciuciuc Victor-Emanuel , Bunica Andreea , Biea Elena Adriana , Treapat Laurentiu-Mihai , Edu Tudor
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper explores the integration of sustainable development practices within today’s business management, emphasizing the managerial perspectives and strategies adopted to address economic, social, cultural, and environmental dimensions of sustainability and their organizational outcomes, namely performance and reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a qualitative study involving in-depth interviews with twelve managers from various sectors, this research utilizes content analysis and Qualitative Data Analysis Software (AtlasTI) to map managerial insights and strategies. The study identifies key constructs and their impacts on organizational performance and reputation.

Findings

The study identifies a complex interplay between economic, social, environmental, and cultural management practices and their take on organizational performance and reputation in the current context and emphasizes the importance of leadership and regulatory frameworks in promoting sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s qualitative approach provides in-depth insights but may limit generalizability. Future research could employ quantitative methods to validate and extend these findings across different contexts and industries.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the sustainability and business management literature by providing a detailed examination of how Romanian managers perceive and operationalize sustainability. It underscores the importance of integrating sustainability into core business strategies and offers practical insights for managers and policymakers aiming to enhance sustainable business practices.
What experts say about domestic violence: constructing Thailand’s domestic violence severity index through an expert judgement approach
Authors: Chokprajakchat Srisombat , Techagaisiyavanit Wanaporn , Mulaphong Dhanakorn , Iyavarakul Tongyai , Kuanliang Attapol
Published: January 2025

Purpose

While many countries have adopted traditional approaches to identify patterns and trends in domestic violence at a national level, a strategy that provides more insightful information is still lacking. In response to this need, the purpose of this study is to propose the construction of a domestic violence severity index (DVSI) as an alternative. This index serves as a strategic instrument for policymakers and law enforcement agencies, enabling them to monitor changes in the overall severity of domestic violence incidents over time, beyond relying solely on the volume of reported incidents.

Design/methodology/approach

Reported domestic violence incidents are collected over the past five years (2019–2023) from the entire country. Unlike sentence-based approaches such as the Cambridge Crime Harm Index and the Canadian Crime Severity Index, the DVSI applies a crime severity index based on expert judgment to assess the seriousness of domestic violence categories. Twenty-three experts with extensive experience in domestic violence issues across various governmental and nongovernmental organizations participated in providing assessments. To ensure consistency in assigning weight values to the domestic violence categories, the average scores provided by experts were calculated using arithmetic mean, median, mode and geometric mean.

Findings

Domestic violence maps reflecting trends between 2019 and 2023 across 77 provinces in Thailand have been generated based on the index data. The maps depict significant serial and spatial correlation levels from 2019 to 2023.

Practical implications

These maps carry significant implications for the country’s domestic violence prevention strategy by offering detailed insights into the geographical locations and periods requiring focused attention and resource allocation from the government. This tool can also aid the public in gaining a better understanding of the prevalence of domestic violence in society, facilitating increased coordination and collaboration among stakeholders.

Originality/value

Many countries quantify domestic violence using simple methods, such as calculating percentages or measuring incidents per 100,000 population. However, a specific DVSI has not yet been developed to analyze and understand domestic violence trends geographically, which could serve as an additional measure to protect victims. In addition, the study uses an expert judgment approach, a rare method in constructing a crime severity index, especially in the context of domestic violence.
History and prospects of Nagashima‐type palmoplantar keratosis, the most common palmoplantar keratoderma in east Asian populations
Authors: Kubo Akiharu
Published: January 2025

Nagashima‐type palmoplantar keratosis (NPPK) has been shown to represent a form of autosomal recessive palmoplantar keratosis due to biallelic pathological variants of SERPINB7, which encodes a serine protease inhibitor expressed in the epidermis. Approximately 10 years have elapsed since NPPK was demonstrated to be an independent genetic disease, and the most prevalent palmoplantar keratoderma (PPK) in East Asian countries due to a high prevalence of founder mutations in SERPINB7. Since then, it has become evident that biallelic pathological variants of SERPINA12, which encodes a serine protease inhibitor expressed in the epidermis, can also manifest symptoms analogous to those of NPPK. Furthermore, a pathological variant of SERPINB7 was identified as a risk factor for the development of atopic dermatitis in a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of atopic dermatitis, indicating that the frequent co‐occurrence of NPPK and atopic dermatitis is not a mere coincidence. Despite the documentation of NPPK cases in Japan since the 1970s, there have been no reports of individuals with similar symptoms from other regions, including Europe and the USA. Consequently, the existence and independence of the disease remained uncertain until its genetic cause was identified. The disease's independence was established through the accumulation of data on affected individuals, including the provision of accurate descriptions of their symptoms, which enabled the identification of the genetic cause. This review presents a comprehensive overview of the history and prospects of NPPK with a particular focus on the history of the process of establishing NPPK as an independent disease.
Dynamic changes in serum albumin and ferritin indicate higher risk of early‐onset peritonitis in peritoneal dialysis patients
Authors: Li Jinqing , Liu Yao , Lu Yijun , Fu Chensheng , Ye Zhibin , Zhang Zhenxing
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The objective of this study is to investigate the dynamic changes in serum albumin and ferritin as potential predictors for early‐onset peritoneal dialysis‐related peritonitis (PDRP) in patients undergoing peritoneal dialysis (PD).

Methods

This retrospective study included 215 patients with end‐stage renal disease who initiated PD at Huadong Hospital. Patients were followed up to 24 months, during which episodes of PDRP were recorded. The dynamic changes in serum albumin and ferritin levels were evaluated within the first 6 months of PD initiation. Data were analyzed to assess the relationship between these biomarkers and early‐onset PDRP.

Results

Among the 215 patients, 33.49% developed PDRP, and 28.93% experienced early‐onset PDRP. Patients with lower baseline serum albumin levels (<35 g/L) and higher baseline ferritin levels (≥400 μg/L) had an increased risk of developing early‐onset PDRP. Importantly, the risk associated with low initial albumin was not significant when serum albumin levels remained stable within the first 6 months (−5% to 5% change). Similarly, although higher baseline ferritin was associated with a higher risk of early‐onset PDRP, patients with fluctuating ferritin levels (more than 35% change) showed no significant increase in the risk. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed a lower cumulative technical survival rate in patients with early‐onset PDRP.

Conclusion

Dynamic changes in serum albumin and ferritin levels within the first 6 months of PD can serve as significant predictors of early‐onset PDRP, but stable levels of these markers mitigate their predictive value. Close monitoring of these biomarkers may help in identifying high‐risk patients and improving PD outcomes.
Tidal–hydrological dynamics of water temperature across freshwater forested wetlands on the northeastern Pacific coast
Authors: Buenau Kate E. , Diefenderfer Heida L. , Mckeon Maggie A. , Borde Amy B.
Published: January 2025

Tidal freshwater forests were once extensive across temperate coastlines, but loss and fragmentation have made estimation of their ecosystem functions challenging. We measured water temperature for 2 years in three Sitka spruce tidal forests, a restoration site, and an adjacent emergent marsh on the Columbia River, Washington, United States. We assessed spatial variability of water temperature within sites including the effects of hydrology, differences among bay and tributary tidal forests, and differences between the tidal forests and the mainstem Columbia, the restoration site, and the emergent marsh. The tidal forests nearest to the bay had lower interior water temperatures than their channel confluences by up to 2.5°C (weekly median temperature) and 2.0°C (weekly maximum temperature), with most cooling occurring during the low‐flow months of July–September. Tributary sites had maximum temperatures up to 1.9°C cooler than bay sites and 4.2°C cooler than the mainstem. Temperatures in the two bay sites decreased by −0.16°C/100 m and −0.07°C/100 m, on average. The restoration site had the smallest within‐site temperature gradient. Differences in maximum temperatures were greatest when tidal range was low, while higher tidal ranges were associated with warmer and more variable site interiors relative to their confluences. These results suggest that water temperatures in these tidal forests can provide temperature refugia for cold water biota including salmon.
Mind the Gap: A Neural Network Framework for Imputing Genotypes in Non‐Model Species
Authors: Bougiouri Katia
Published: January 2025

Reduced representation sequencing (RRS) has proven to be a cost‐effective solution for sequencing subsets of the genome in non‐model species for large‐scale studies. However, the targeted nature of RRS approaches commonly introduces large amounts of missing data, leading to reduced statistical power and biased estimates in downstream analyses. Genotype imputation, the statistical inference of missing sites across the genome, is a powerful alternative to overcome the caveats associated with missing sites. Typically, genotype imputation requires the presence of a reference panel of haplotypes, however, this is not always feasible for non‐model species. In this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Mora‐Márquez et al. (2024) develop gtImputation, an unsupervised machine learning imputation tool with an interactive GUI, which leverages information from the underlying data structure itself, without the need for a reference panel. They showcase that their method performs equally well and even surpasses existing haplotype‐clustering and unsupervised machine learning algorithms, particularly for sites with low minor allele frequency (MAF) and for data sets with strong underlying population structure. This innovative framework adds to the ongoing efforts to expand the applicability of imputation to non‐model species, offering the opportunity to apply varied types of analyses requiring dense sets of markers, while also maintaining lower sequencing costs.
Invasive mechanical ventilation strategies, adjuvants treatments and adverse events among ICU patients with COVID‐19 in Denmark
Authors: Nielsen Martine S. , Halekoh Ulrich , Perner Anders , Haberlandt Trine , Larsen Nikolai Arnold‐ , Weihe Sarah , Garcia Ricardo S. , Siegel Hanna , Hagdrup Christian , Skøtt Mads R. , Jensen Anne‐Mette S. , Frische Jonathan B. , Wethelund Kasper , Christiansen Søren H. , Aagaard Søren R. , Højlund Sofie , Westergaard Bo , Christiansen Aage , Michagin George , Worm Marie S. , Svendsen Ann‐Kristine M. , la Cour Kirstine N. , Jonassen Trine B. , Jensen Jens U. , Sørensen Kasper M. , Haase Nicolai , Rasmussen Bodil S. , Brøchner Anne C.
Published: January 2025

Aim

To describe the use of invasive mechanical ventilation core strategies, adjuvant treatments and the occurrence of barotrauma and prolonged ventilation in ICU patients with COVID‐19 in Denmark, retrospectively.

Methods

All ICUs admitting COVID‐19 patients in Denmark from 10 March 2020 to 2 April 2021 were invited to participate. All patients with COVID‐19 who received invasive mechanical ventilation were included and data was retrospectively collected from electronic patient records.

Results

A total of 774 patients were invasively ventilated during the first two waves and included; 70% were males and the median age was 69 years. 340 (51.5%) of patients never exceeded tidal volumes of 8 mL/kg. For all patients, tidal volumes under 8 mL/kg were applied in 77.6% (IQR 54.5%–96.2%) of the time on ventilator in the ICU; plateau pressure was below 30 cm H2O in 125 (80.6%) patients; prone positioning was used in 44.7% of patients. In ICU, 169 of 774 (21.8%) patients experienced barotrauma and 220 (28.4%) prolonged ventilation. At 90 days, 306 (39.5%) had died.

Conclusions

Lung protective ventilation and prone positioning were used in many of the Danish ICU patients with COVID‐19, but barotrauma, prolonged ventilation and death occurred frequently.
Tgm2‐Catalyzed Covalent Cross‐Linking of IκBα Drives NF‐κB Nuclear Translocation to Promote SASP in Senescent Microglia
Authors: Li Zhiqiang , Wang Tianxiang , Du Sijing , Miao Zelong , Zhao Yujiao , Tang Yuxiang , Meng Xianbin , Yu Shangcheng , Zhang Dongyuan , Jiang Hao , Du Kunlin , Wei Wei , Deng Haiteng
Published: January 2025

Microglia, as resident immune cells in the central nervous system (CNS), play a crucial role in maintaining homeostasis and phagocytosing metabolic waste in the brain. Senescent microglia exhibit decreased phagocytic capacity and increased neuroinflammation through senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP). This process contributes to the development of various neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD). In this study, we found that SASP was elevated in senescent microglia, and proteomics showed that Tgm2 was upregulated. Mechanistically, we revealed that Tgm2‐catalyzed covalent cross‐linking of IκBα at K22 and Q248 residues in the cytoplasm of microglia, resulting in the reduction of IκBα and nuclear translocation of NF‐κB to promote SASP production. Treatment of senescent microglia with Tgm2 inhibitors (Tg2‐IN1 and Cys‐D) resulted in reduced NF‐κB nuclear translocation and decreased SASP. Additionally, oral administration of Cys‐D significantly improved the aging phenotype in aged mice. To summarize, Tgm2 is a potential target for antiaging, and inhibitors of Tgm2 can serve as novel prophylactics or senomorphics.
Causal relationship between 14 micronutrients and chronic periodontitis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Yu Z , Yang Y , Yu Z , Yan Z , Gao R
Published: January 2025

Background

Chronic periodontitis is one of the most common inflammatory diseases worldwide. Micronutrients play a significant impact on health and periodontal disease progression. However, there is still a lack of conclusive studies confirming the causal association of micronutrients with chronic periodontitis.

Materials and methods

Genome‐wide association study pooled data on chronic periodontitis were collected from the FinnGen consortium, and 14 micronutrients (calcium, copper, zinc, potassium, magnesium, selenium, iron, carotenoids, vitamin B6, B12, C, D, E and folate) were obtained from the OpenGWAS and UK Biobank Study. Instrumental variables were screened by strict criteria. Five Mendelian randomization (MR) methods were used. Finally, the robustness of the findings was verified by sensitivity analyses.

Results

We found that vitamin D reduced the risk of chronic periodontitis (OR: 0.605, 95%CI: 0.398–0.921, P = 0.019). However, we had no evidence of a significant association between other micronutrients and chronic periodontitis. Multiple sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings. A variety of sensitivity analysis methods confirmed the reliability of the results.

Conclusion

In this study, we found a potential causal relationship between vitamin D and chronic periodontitis by MR analysis, whereas we did not find an association between 13 other micronutrients and chronic periodontitis. This result might provide new ideas for the prevention and treatment of chronic periodontitis to some extent. However, despite the rigorous analytical methods used in this study, this finding needs to be interpreted with caution. Further randomized controlled studies might provide more in‐depth references to the findings of this study.
Human asthenozoospermia: Update on genetic causes, patient management, and clinical strategies
Authors: Cavarocchi Emma , Drouault Maëva , Ribeiro Joao C. , Simon Violaine , Whitfield Marjorie , Touré Aminata
Published: January 2025

Background

In mammals, sperm fertilization potential relies on efficient progression within the female genital tract to reach and fertilize the oocyte. This fundamental property is supported by the flagellum, an evolutionarily conserved organelle, which contains dynein motor proteins that provide the mechanical force for sperm propulsion and motility. Primary motility of the sperm cells is acquired during their transit through the epididymis and hyperactivated motility is acquired throughout the journey in the female genital tract by a process called capacitation. These activation processes rely on the micro‐environment of the genital tracts. In particular, during capacitation, a panoply of ion transporters located at the surface of the sperm cells mediate complex ion exchanges, which induce an increase in plasma membrane fluidity, the alkalinization of the cytoplasm and protein phosphorylation cascades that are compulsory for sperm hyperactivation and fertilization potential. As a consequence, both structural and functional defects of the sperm flagellum can affect sperm motility, resulting in asthenozoospermia, which constitutes the most predominant pathological condition associated with human male infertility.

Objectives

Herein, we have performed a literature review to provide a comprehensive description of the recent advances in the genetics of human asthenozoospermia.

Results and Discussion

We describe the currently knowledge on gene mutations that affect sperm morphology and motility, namely, asthenoteratozoospermia; we also specify the gene mutations that exclusively affect sperm function and activation, resulting in functional asthenozoospermia. We discuss the benefit of this knowledge for patient and couple management, in terms of genetic counselling and diagnosis of male infertility as a sole phenotype or in association with ciliary defects. Last, we discuss the current strategies that have been initiated for the development of potential therapeutical and contraceptive strategies targeting genes that are essential for sperm function and activation.
Leptin action on ARC‐PVN neural circuit regulates ejaculation behavior by altering sympathetic neuroplasticity
Authors: Zhang Qi‐Jie , Luan Jiao‐Chen , Gu Qi , Song Ning‐Hong , Xia Jia‐Dong
Published: January 2025

Background

Although some studies have revealed the close relationship between leptin and premature ejaculation in clinical practice, whether and how leptin participates in the regulation of ejaculatory behaviors are still unknown.

Objective

To explore the role of leptin on ejaculatory behaviors and its underlying mechanism.

Materials and methods

Copulation behavior tests were performed after acute and chronic leptin administration at peripheral and central levels. To compare changes in sympathetic nervous system activity, lumbar sympathetic nervous activity, serum noradrenaline levels, and the distribution of sympathetic fibers in vas deferens and seminal vesicles were analyzed. Construction of virus vector, immunohistochemistry, and optogenetics techniques were used to explore the neural circuit mechanism. The density of dendritic spines in parvocellular region of paraventricular nucleus was measured by Golgi staining.

Results

Acute administration of leptin had no effect on ejaculation behavior in male mice. However, both mount latency and ejaculation latency were significantly shortened, even if serum leptin decreased to normal level, after chronic administration of leptin at peripheral or central level. Additionally, sympathetic fibers in vas deferens and seminal vesicles obviously increased, in which arcuate nucleus‒paraventricular nucleus circuit and glutamatergic neurons in paraventricular nucleus played an important role. Dendritic spine density in parvocellular region increased after chronic leptin administration.

Discussion and conclusion

The role of leptin in regulating ejaculation behavior was chronic, not acute, in which leptin chronically modulated sympathetic neuroplasticity via arcuate nucleus‒paraventricular nucleus circuit and glutamatergic neurons in paraventricular nucleus and promoted ejaculatory behaviors. Increased dendritic spine density in parvocellular region of paraventricular nucleus may be involved as well.
Digital disparities in Myanmar: A case study for sustainable digitalization
Authors: Thida Myo , Thwe Khine Zar , Ko Thiha Ko , Thuya Han , Naing Hnin Ei Ei , Hlaing Hnin Oo Wai
Published: January 2025

This study explores the digital disparities in Myanmar, particularly in the Education Sector, and the challenges the country faces in achieving sustainable digitalization. Employing both quantitative and qualitative research methods, including surveys and interviews, the researchers collected data from online learner students across various regions in Myanmar to assess the digital skills gap and access to online education. The findings reveal significant digital divides exacerbated by the 2021 political crisis, with issues such as unstable internet access, frequent power outages, and financial constraints impeding progress. These challenges disproportionately affect rural and conflict‐prone areas. Despite efforts toward digitization, many students lack access to essential digital resources, further widening the digital gap. The study concludes that strategic interventions are necessary to address these disparities in Myanmar's digital future.
Update on B‐cell maturation antigen‐directed therapies in AL amyloidosis
Authors: Jamroziak Krzysztof , Zielonka Klaudia , Khwaja Jahanzaib , Wechalekar Ashutosh D.
Published: January 2025

Systemic light chain (AL) amyloidosis is a rare clonal plasma cell disorder characterized by the production of amyloidogenic immunoglobulin light chains, which causes the formation and deposition of amyloid fibrils, leading to multi‐organ dysfunction. Current treatment is directed at the underlying plasma cell clone to achieve a profound reduction in the monoclonal free light chain production. The standard‐of‐care first‐line therapy is a combination of daratumumab, cyclophosphamide, bortezomib and dexamethasone (D‐VCd regimen), resulting in high rates of haematological and organ responses. However, AL amyloidosis remains incurable, and all patients inevitably relapse. Hence, novel treatment options are needed for patients with an inadequate response or relapsed/refractory disease. B‐cell maturation antigen (BCMA) is a tumour necrosis factor (TNF receptor superfamily receptor overexpressed on plasma cells in multiple myeloma (MM) and AL amyloidosis. Recently, several novel anti‐BCMA immunotherapies have been approved for the treatment of relapsed/refractory MM, including antibody–drug conjugate belantamab mafodotin, bispecific antibodies teclistamab and elranatamab and chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapies idecabtagene vicleucel and ciltacabtagene autoleucel. Despite lower expression than in MM, BCMA is also a promising target in AL amyloidosis. This review aims to provide up‐to‐date information on the efficacy and toxicity of anti‐BCMA therapy in AL amyloidosis.