bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The endophytic fungusCosmosporellasp. VM-42 fromVinca minoris a source of bioactive compounds with potent activity against drug-resistant bacteria
Authors: He Ting , Li Xiao , del Carmen Flores-Vallejo Rosario , Radu Ana-Maria , van Dijl Jan Maarten , Haslinger Kristina
Published: December 2024

Medicinal plants serve as valuable resources for the isolation of endophytic fungi.Vinca minoris a well-known producer of important vinca alkaloids and emerges as a promising source of endophytic fungi with antibacterial potential and biosynthetic capacity. In this study, we isolated an endophytic fungus fromV. minorand identified it asCosmosporellasp. VM-42. To date, relatively little is known about this fungal genus. The ethyl acetate extract of this isolate selectively inhibited Gram-positive bacteria, such as methicillin-sensitive and methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MSSA and MRSA). Therefore, we isolated the most abundant compound from the crude extract and identified it as nectriapyrone with MIC and MBC values ranging from 125 to 62.5 µg/mL against MSSA and MRSA strains. We further sequenced and annotated the 39.07 Mb genome of the isolate, revealing that it encodes 9,842 protein-coding genes, including 415 genes for carbohydrate-active enzymes and various biosynthetic gene clusters. Our untargeted metabolomic analysis shows that the fungus produces various secondary metabolites, including cyclodepsipeptides, dimeric naphtho-γ-pyrones, and macrolactones, which are known to have antifungal and antibacterial activities. In addition, we used small-molecule epigenetic modulators to activate the expression of silent biosynthetic gene clusters to broaden the chemical profile ofCosmosporellasp. VM-42. Taken together, we provide a first systematic analysis ofCosmosporellasp. VM-42, and our results show that it is a promising source of compounds with pharmacological potential against drug resistant bacteria.

Highlights

First comprehensive study ofCosmosporellasp. VM-42 by genomics and metabolomics

The fungus produces chemically-diverse secondary metabolites with antibacterial activity

Nectriapyrone, the main compound, shows bactericidal activity against MSSA and MRSA

Small-molecule epigenetic modulators trigger production of putatively new secondary metabolites.

Other secondary metabolites ofCosmosporellamay present novel bioactivities.
Truncated TrkB: The predominant TrkB Isoform in Nociceptors
Authors: Merlo Jaclyn , Fang-Mei Chang , Tran Michael , Alfaro Jessie , Ibrahim Tarek , Wu Ping , Ruparel Shivani
Published: December 2024

Truncated TrkB (TrkBT1), traditionally considered a dominant-negative regulator of full-length TrkB (TrkBTK+), remains poorly understood in peripheral sensory neurons, particularly nociceptors. Furthermore, sensory neuronal TrkB expression and function has been traditionally associated with non-nociceptive neurons, particularly Aδ low-threshold mechanoreceptors. This study challenges prevailing assumptions by demonstrating that TrkBT1 is the predominant TrkB isoform expressed in sensory neurons and plays a functional role in modulating neuronal activity. We demonstrate that TrkBT1 is the predominant isoform expressed in nociceptors, identified by markers such as TRPV1, TRPA1, TRPM8 and 5HT3A, as well as non-nociceptors, while the full-length isoform (TrkBTK+) is restricted to non-nociceptive subpopulation. Functionally, we show that acute application of BDNF induces modest calcium influx in nociceptors and prolonged BDNF exposure significantly potentiates capsaicin-induced calcium influx, an effect blocked by the TrkB-specific antagonist ANA12. Additionally, BDNF also promotes the survival of both nociceptive and non-nociceptive neurons in culture, an effect dependent on TrkBT1 activity. Our data also reveal that ANA12 inhibits BDNF-mediated neuronal sensitization and survival in a concentration-dependent manner, implicating distinct TrkBT1 signaling pathways in these processes. Collectively, our findings redefine TrkBT1 as a functional modulator of nociceptor activity rather than a passive regulator of full-length TrkB. By uncovering its dual roles in nociceptor sensitization and survival, this study provides new insights into the molecular mechanisms of BDNF/TrkB signaling in pain. Future work evaluating the role of TrkBT1 in sensory biology could offer new perspectives on how this receptor contributes to neuronal function and plasticity during chronic pain conditions.
Combining DNA and protein alignments to improve genome annotation with LiftOn
Authors: Chao Kuan-Hao , Heinz Jakob M. , Hoh Celine , Mao Alan , Shumate Alaina , Pertea Mihaela , Salzberg Steven L.
Published: December 2024

As the number and variety of assembled genomes continue to grow, the number of annotated genomes is falling behind, particularly for eukaryotes. DNA-based mapping tools help to address this challenge, but they are only able to transfer annotation between closely related species. Here we introduce LiftOn, a homology-based software tool that integrates DNA and protein alignments to enhance the accuracy of genome-scale annotation and to allow mapping between relatively distant species. LiftOn's protein-centric algorithm considers both types of alignments, chooses optimal open reading frames, resolves overlapping gene loci, and finds additional gene copies when they exist. LiftOn can reliably transfer annotation between genomes representing members of the same species, as we demonstrate on human, mouse, honeybee, rice, andArabidopsis thaliana. It can further map annotation effectively across species pairs as far apart as mouse and rat orDrosophila melanogasterandDrosophila erecta.
The effect of using information technology on corporate resilience in the face of tension-causing factors within companies
Authors: Dehghan Sanaz , Hajiha Zohreh , Salehi Mahdi
Published: December 2024

Purpose

It is crucial to identify the factors that affect corporate resilience to compare a company with others and assess its competitiveness. This study aims to examine the effect of using information technology (IT) on corporate resilience in the face of tension-causing factors within companies listed on the Tehran Stock Exchange (TSE).

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical population of this study includes all the companies listed on the TSE during 2013–2022. A total of 196 companies were selected as the final research sample. The panel data is used to test the research hypotheses using Stata 14.

Findings

The results demonstrate that tension-causing factors within the company have a negative effect on corporate resilience. Moreover, the results indicate that investment in software positively affects the relationship between company tension-causing factors and corporate resilience. Furthermore, the results show that investment in hardware positively affects the relationship between tension-causing factors within companies and corporate resilience.

Originality/value

This study creates a bridge between research on IT, corporate resilience and tension-causing factors within companies. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate the effect of IT on corporate resilience in the face of tension-causing factors within companies in Iran, particularly in the TSE, thereby contributing to the existing literature in this area.
An IoT-based heat stress management system for the construction industry
Authors: Kodikara Edirisinghe Ruwini , Gunathilake Lahiru
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Alarming statistics underscore the pressing need for effective heat stress management strategies for the construction industry. Validated, holistic systems are lacking. This paper presents the usability of a technological solution that generates early warnings to proactively manage heat stress conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical frameworks guiding technology design, development and validation proposed in this paper are based on the principles of technology readiness levels (TRL). The system encompasses two types of heat stress indicators: environmental and workers’ temperature data. Portable weather stations generate a hierarchy of environmental measurements at multiple levels at various work zones. Internet of Things (IoT) enabled smart vests monitor construction workers’ body temperature in real-time. A web-based system and a smartphone app enable data visualization. The system was deployed on residential construction sites, and usability was evaluated using the strong theoretical frameworks of the technology acceptance model (TAM) and System Usability Scale (SUS). Perceptions of both construction workers and management personnel were captured.

Findings

The usability test provided valuable insights into the effectiveness and practicality of the system. Both construction workers and management provided positive feedback, indicating that the system was user-friendly and enhanced their awareness of thermal conditions on site. The integration of individual temperature monitoring with environmental data has proven to be beneficial for managing heat stress.

Originality/value

This study contributes by providing a validated innovative system that monitors thermal conditions on construction sites using smart personal protective equipment (PPE) and IoT technology. The proposed system, tailored to the construction industry, enables the combining of personal and environmental data to comprehensively and effectively understand thermal conditions. This approach has the potential to reduce heat-related incidents and improve overall worker safety and productivity.
The state as creative destroyer: a systems perspective on entrepreneurship by organised monopolies on violence
Authors: Roth Steffen
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This article explores the concept of state entrepreneurship, particularly focusing on its darker aspects when states act as creative destroyers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a systems-theoretical approach to develop a comprehensive framework for understanding the nature of statehood and its role in driving disruptive innovation. The research design includes an analysis of cases of state-mandated planned obsolescence, examining the ethical, political and economic implications of these strategies.

Findings

The main findings highlight that while state-driven innovation is often justified by noble goals such as climate change mitigation, these strategies may lead to ethically questionable outcomes, particularly when economic benefits for the state or associated entities are involved. The study also demonstrates that several aspects of state entrepreneurship align with established definitions of dark side entrepreneurship. The article concludes by underscoring the need for further research into the social costs incurred as states pursue their entrepreneurial missions.

Originality/value

The article demonstrates that states are organisations that pursue business models that would be considered unethical if adopted by other organisations. These models include strategies of state-mandated forms of planned obsolescence, a strategy commonly regarded as environmentally unsustainable or even criminal if performed by business organisations.
Toward sustainable ERP systems and their impact on individual performance in manufacturing SMEs: evidence from a North African developing country
Authors: Ali Mohammed , Ahmed Fawad
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Despite the acknowledged potential of enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems, existing literature falls short in providing a detailed analysis of the impact these systems may have on user performance. Consequently, this research undertakes a nuanced examination, probing into the dynamics of ERP system utilization. This study posits that elevating employee and organizational performance mandates a dual commitment—ensuring the inherent quality of ERP systems while concurrently fostering user satisfaction and optimizing system usage.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey questionnaire was used to collect data and to empirically validate the proposed model. There were total 406 respondents as users of ERP systems within the manufacturing sector in Sudan. SmartPLS SEM was used to analyze data.

Findings

The results confirm the hypothesized relationships underscoring the pivotal role of system usage and user satisfaction as predictive indicators of individual performance and that the quality of information and service are influential determinants not only of ERP system utilization but also of user satisfaction.

Originality/value

Addressing UN SDGs, this paper charts a course for comprehending and optimizing the interplay between ERP systems and performance within manufacturing firms in Republic of the Sudan and fills knowledge gap from North African region enterprises.
Do Islamic epistemology and ethics advance the understanding and promotion of sustainable development? A systematic review using PRISMA
Authors: Raimi Lukman
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study addresses the question of whether Islamic epistemology and ethics advance the understanding and promotion of sustainable development (SD) in the field of Islamic management, economics and finance (IMEF). This study also aims to understand how contemporary ethical theories explain and harmonise Islamic ethics in the context of SD.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts the PRISMA protocol and conducts a systematic literature review of 62 articles published from 2015 to 2023 to provide answers to four research questions. The selected publications were taken from the Web of Science, Scopus and Google Scholar databases, using the purposive sampling technique, and taking into account the selection criteria of quality, relevance and timeliness of the publications.

Findings

Four key findings emerged from the review. Firstly, Islamic epistemology and ethics, drawn from the Qur’an and Hadith, guide practices toward SD. Secondly, Islamic epistemology and ethics promote SD through various initiatives, including ethical behaviour, environmental stewardship, social responsibility, Islamic banking and financing ethics and Islamic social financing principles among others. Third, contemporary ethical theories such as virtue ethics, intentionalism, consequentialism and deontological ethics enrich the application of Islamic ethical foundations in the context of SD. Finally, the theoretical connection between Islamic epistemology, ethics and SD lies in their alignment toward promoting ethical behaviour, social responsibility and holistic ecosystem well-being.

Practical implications

The insights provided by this review offer practical implications for researchers, policymakers and practitioners in IMEF. The insights also underscore the importance of integrating Islamic ethical principles into SD initiatives and policy frameworks.

Originality/value

This novel study offers unique perspectives by integrating contemporary ethical theories with Islamic ethics and epistemology to justify SD in ways that are both theoretically and practically significant. In addition, six novel propositions are suggested for future research in IMEF.
Irish-based farmers’ experience of facilitating social farming
Authors: Gorman Eoin , Kingston Sally , Giles Nicola
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Social farming is the use of commercial farms and agricultural landscapes to promote mental and physical health for service users through ordinary farming activities. While previous research has focused on the service user, the farmer’s perspective and well-being has not been extensively considered in the research. The purpose of this study was to explore Irish-based farmer's experiences of social farming.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative-descriptive approach was used to explore the form, function and meaning of facilitating social farming. Purposive sampling was used for recruitment. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews with ten social farmers.

Findings

Four themes emerged from the interviews: characteristics of the farm and farmer, connection, mutually beneficial farming and challenges of social farming.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on the experience of occupational rejuvenation that occurs for the farmer and their family through engagement in social farming, seen through their renewed passion for farming and the focus on mundane occupations. This highlights how the occupation of facilitating social farming can increase the well-being of those involved in the occupation.
Remanufactured products from university students’ perspective: a reflexive thematic analysis approach
Authors: Güngördü Belbağ Aybegüm , Belbağ Sedat
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Consumer skepticism hinders the growth of remanufactured products (RPs). Previous studies have explored factors influencing the intention to purchase RPs, overlooking consumer resistance. This study aims to address this gap by integrating barriers, personal factors and outcome expectations – drawing on innovation resistance and social cognitive theories – from the perspective of higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted semi-structured, in-depth interviews with 34 undergraduates at higher education institutions in Türkiye, and analyzed the data with reflexive thematic analysis.

Findings

Findings reveal that barriers (value, risk and image), personal factors (product knowledge and self-efficacy) and outcome expectations (green benefits, like-new quality and financial benefits) affect intention to purchase RPs.

Originality/value

Although higher education boosts sustainability awareness, research on university students’ barriers and intentions to purchase RPs is scarce. Prior research has only addressed risk and value barriers, product knowledge and perceived green benefits. None examined image barriers, self-efficacy, financial benefits and like-new quality. This study fills this gap by addressing higher education’s role in overcoming adoption barriers and enhancing outcome expectations. It also explores personal factors like self-efficacy, an underexplored area, that can be enhanced through social persuasion and mastery experiences.
Unveiling the moderated mediation of psychological entitlement and psychological distress in customer incivility and frontline employee work-family conflict relationship
Authors: Khanam Afreen , Sadaf Sana , Tarab Sheema , Zamir Nasir
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study intends to examine the influence of customer incivility (CI) on work-family conflict (WFC), with a specific focus on the mediating function of psychological distress (PD) and the moderating role of psychological entitlement (PE). Additionally, the study explores whether PE moderates the indirect influence of CI on WFC through psychological distress.

Design/methodology/approach

We gathered data from 326 employees employed in the Indian service sector and analyzed them using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with SmartPLS v4.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that customer incivility increases employee WFC. Additionally, PD served as a partial mediator in CI and WFC relationships. Moreover, the study uncovered that psychological entitlement (PE) moderates the association between CI and PD. Importantly, the indirect influence of customer incivility on WFC via psychological distress was high at higher PE.

Practical implications

This study offers practical insights for mitigating customer incivility and work-family conflict. Organizations can implement employee assistance programs (EAPs) to offer confidential counseling services to the victim of CI. Additionally, managers should promote a performance-driven culture where incentives and recognition are based on genuine accomplishments to manage psychologically entitled employees.

Originality/value

Our research is the first to propose and validate the predictive influence of CI on WFC through psychological distress. Furthermore, by exploring the moderating effect of PE in comprehending the connection between customer incivility, PD and work-family conflict, our study contributes novelty to the existing literature.
Neuroethical implications of AI-driven productivity tools on intellectual capital: a theoretical and econometric analysis
Authors: Bîzoi Alexandra Codruța , Bîzoi Cristian Gabriel
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study explores the dual impact of AI-driven productivity tools on employee performance, well-being and sustainability, focusing on the key metrics of productivity, innovation, stress, job satisfaction and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses econometric models and simulated data and applies difference-in-differences and regression analysis to assess the effects of AI tools on 1,000 simulated employees.

Findings

AI tools enhance productivity but offer limited support for innovation. They increase stress and reduce job satisfaction while improving governance outcomes and transparency.

Research limitations/implications

Using simulated data may limit real-world applicability. Future studies should validate findings with empirical data regarding long-term sustainability impacts.

Practical implications

A balanced AI strategy combining training and well-being support is vital to mitigate stress and sustain employee satisfaction during AI integration.

Social implications

Monitoring employee well-being and sustainability metrics is fundamental to ensure responsible AI adoption.

Originality/value

This research provides new insights into balancing AI’s productivity benefits with its psychological and ethical implications, offering guidelines for responsible implementation.
Age diversity and team performance – the moderating roles of team LMX quality and differentiation
Authors: Hahn Michael , Semrau Thorsten
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to extend our knowledge of how leadership shapes the consequences of team age diversity. Specifically, we adopt a relational perspective on leadership to examine how two distinct aspects of LMX composition among team leaders and their team members—i.e. team LMX quality and team LMX differentiation—affect the link between age diversity and team performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses are tested via ordinary least squares regression and data for 64 work teams at a major hospital, which were provided by 526 team members and their respective team leaders.

Findings

Results reveal that team LMX quality and LMX differentiation both qualify the performance implications of team age diversity. While team LMX quality has a positive moderating effect, the moderating influence of team LMX differentiation is negative.

Practical implications

To reap the performance potential of age diversity, leaders need to serve as role models by investing in high-quality relationships with all their team members. When leading age-homogenous teams, leaders may consider differentiating their LMX relationships.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to a better understanding of the interplay between leadership and age diversity and helps to extend our knowledge of LMX as a team-level phenomenon.
Suffering, struggles and support: a qualitative exploration of hope and healing in men seeking asylum using photographs and I-poems
Authors: Clark Emily , Hanson Sarah , Steel Nicholas , Parretti Helen M. , Sweeting Anna
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The literature highlights that health care in the UK is not always well adapted to meet the needs of individuals from different cultural backgrounds and within the context of the asylum system. This study aims to explore culturally adapted health support in the context of wider social and community support, to enable post-migration growth and ameliorate the impact of migratory grief.

Design/methodology/approach

A community based participatory approach was used. The research team, and community organisation supporting this group, collaborated as equals to foster trust and reciprocity in research. Two focus groups were run in Arabic with a professional interpreter with 14 male participants from six different countries, all with lived experience of the asylum process.

Findings

The findings are reported under three major themes: pre-migration experiences (home, journeys and disaster), post-migration stress (suffering and meaning) and post-migration growth (hope, kinship and healing).

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that group interventions and peer support are beneficial and acceptable across diverse backgrounds and immigration statuses, though further research is needed to assess the effectiveness of different group based well-being interventions across cultures.

Practical implications

Our study confirmed the priority of social determinants of health such as housing, food insecurity and social inclusion, which therefore require joined up approaches in policy between health, voluntary and local government sectors. At a policy level, further emphasis should be placed on creating structures to support these elements to prevent longer term impacts of migratory grief on emerging mental health conditions and enable coping with stress.

Social implications

This study confirmed the key role of meaningful activities (such as physical activity, volunteering and cooking), daily routine, culturally acceptable food, access to places of worship, purpose and activities which offer distraction and fulfilment in shaping grief reactions following loss.

Originality/value

This study confirms that migratory grief is a distinct process that requires careful detection by culturally adapted conversations and language. It suggests how to adapt well-being interventions to support post-traumatic growth and the unique potential for group based interventions outside of Home Office accommodation to reduce psychopathology due to migratory grief.
Unification of fintech platforms: reshaping the Bangladeshi financial frontier
Authors: Rahman Nahinur , Ghosh Ratan , Mahmud Md Tapan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the integration of technology platforms of Fintech service providers in Bangladesh and its outcome on the users’ acceptance and intention to use it. It has considered Bangla QR, a Bangladesh-specific unified payment platform, for the said purpose.

Design/methodology/approach

The study investigates the usage and acceptance of Bangla QR’s financial service application by collecting data on user demographics and usage patterns. The data have been collected from Bangla QR users who have firsthand experience using a unified payment system in Bangladesh. Structural equation modeling (SEM) has been used to analyze the data and investigate the relationships between latent constructs, such as Performance Expectancy (PE), Effort Expectancy (EE), Social Influence (SI), Facilitating Conditions (FC), Hedonic Motivation (HM) and Behavioral Intention (BI).

Findings

Results reveal that the experience of users from earlier platforms and their expectation of improved technologies have a positive and significant relationship with the behavior intention of users regarding the acceptance of a fresh fintech platform. Specifically, PE, EE and FC have a significant effect on HM. Moreover, HM mediates the relationship between PE and BI, EE and BI and FC and BI. Startlingly, SI does not affect HM and BI.

Research limitations/implications

The study posits that users of Bangla QR are embracing the unified payment scheme willingly. Experience with new technology in the financial aspects has given them the confidence to continue this in the future. However, social awareness about the intrinsic worth of unified payment should be raised by financial institutions and regulators in Bangladesh. The lack of Bangla QR’s accessibility limits the number of respondents, and its newness hinders the researchers from focusing on price value and habit constituting BI.

Originality/value

First, this is the first paper to explore the fintech users’ intention to continue a unified payment platform in Bangladesh. Second, it uses the UTAUT2 model with modifications as per the requirement of the study. Finally, this study theorizes specific reasons to develop the overall scenario of a unified payment system in the future in Bangladesh.
Influencing factors and consequences of chatbot initial trust in AI telecommunication services: a study on Generation Z
Authors: Sboui Mariem , Baati Ons , Sfar Nadia
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Chatbots emerge as a prominent trend within the context of evolving communication settings and enhancing customer experience to improve firms' total quality management strategies. Specifically, users’ initial trust in such chatbots is critical for their adoption. Under the realm of technology acceptance theories, the present research aims to investigate drivers (perceived ease of use, performance expectancy, compatibility, social influence and technology anxiety) and impacts (customer experience and chatbot usage intention) of chatbot initial trust, among Generation Z considered as the more tech-savvy generation, in the particular telecommunication services context.

Design/methodology/approach

Research data were collected using an online questionnaire-based survey to test research hypotheses. A sample of 385 students was selected in Tunisia using a convenience sampling technique. Data were then analyzed through structural equation modeling by AMOS 23.

Findings

The results highlighted that, except for perceived ease of use and performance expectancy, all determinants have a significant influence on chatbot initial trust (positive impact of social influence and compatibility and negative impact of technology anxiety). Furthermore, chatbot initial trust positively stimulates customer experience with chatbots and chatbot intention of use.

Practical implications

Our results provide particular insights to chatbot developers seeking to enhance trust-building features in these systems and telecommunication operators to better understand user adoption and improve chatbot-based customer interactions among Generation Z in emergent markets.

Originality/value

This paper attempts to consolidate and enrich the existing body of chatbot initial trust literature by emphasizing the role of customer experience with chatbots and technology anxiety, as two pivotal consumer-related factors that have not yet been treated together in one research.
Comparative analysis of eikonal‐based first‐arrival tomography: A case study from the Santos Basin, Brazil
Authors: Alves Paulo H. B. , Cetale Marco , da Silva Sergio L. E. F. , Santos Luiz Alberto
Published: December 2024

We compare classical and adjoint‐state first‐arrival tomography approaches in subsurface model reconstruction, focusing on pre‐salt updates with a circular‐shot ocean bottom node geometry. The investigation demonstrates that, whereas conventional tomography has faster convergence and better alignment with observed data, it produces significant noise artefacts and fails to adequately represent the reservoir section. In contrast, adjoint‐state tomography provides superior model reconstruction by taking into account the complete travel time volume, significantly lowering noise and boosting reservoir imaging despite its higher computational cost. A quantitative investigation of root mean squared errors for ultra‐long offsets confirms the efficacy of adjoint‐state tomography in minimizing data misfit and improving model fidelity. The findings emphasize the potential of adjoint‐state tomography in enhancing subsurface imaging and underscore the limits of conventional tomography in handling complex subsurface details with sparse acquisition geometry.
Preoperative surgical planning MRI for fibroids: What the surgeon needs to know and what to report
Authors: Acton Jade
Published: December 2024

Uterine leiomyomata, commonly known as fibroids, are prevalent benign tumours affecting a significant percentage of women of reproductive age. Although many patients remain asymptomatic, a substantial proportion experience severe symptoms, including abnormal uterine bleeding and adverse reproductive outcomes. Surgical intervention often becomes necessary for patients with symptomatic fibroids, despite advancements in medical therapies. This article explores the critical role of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) in the preoperative planning and management of fibroid surgeries. MRI has been proven superior to traditional imaging methods, such as transvaginal ultrasound (TVS), offering a more accurate evaluation of fibroid size, location, number, and characteristics. This enhanced imaging aids in surgical planning by providing detailed anatomical insights, helping gynaecologists choose the appropriate surgical techniques and predict potential complications. Moreover, MRI is instrumental in assessing the risk of malignancy, guiding decisions on whether to proceed with myomectomy or hysterectomy. Technological advancements, such as 3D MRI modelling and augmented reality, promise further improvements in surgical outcomes by enhancing anatomical understanding and precision. These innovations, along with artificial intelligence integration, show potential in reducing operation times and improving patient outcomes. This review underscores the essential role of MRI in contemporary fibroid management and highlights future directions in the field.
Pathology and risk stratification‐based evaluation of ovarian masses on MRI
Authors: Arora Ayesha , Shadbolt Clair , Lam Kim , Bahure Sarita , Kitzing Yu Xuan
Published: December 2024

Characterisation of an indeterminate ovarian mass is important as it guides management and clinical outcomes. Ultrasound is the first‐line modality in the assessment of ovarian tumours. When ovarian masses are indeterminate on ultrasound, MRI provides excellent resolution in tissue characterisation and enhancement patterns. Ovarian masses can be categorised based on risk‐scoring systems such as the American College of Radiology (ACR) MRI Ovarian‐Adnexal Reporting and Data System (O‐RADS). The imaging features of non‐neoplastic, benign, borderline and malignant neoplastic ovarian lesions are discussed in this review with a focus on the pathology process accounting for the MRI appearance. Characteristic findings and clues in differentiating a benign lesion from a malignancy are presented in this review.
Validation of Risk Prediction Models for Pneumothorax and Intercostal Catheter Insertion Following CT‐Guided Lung Biopsy
Authors: McOwan Mark , Kinnersly Jack , Walia Nirbaanjot , Dooley Patrick , Robson Scott
Published: December 2024

Background

CT‐guided percutaneous transthoracic needle biopsy is the primary method for diagnosing lung lesions. Widely accepted validated risk prediction models are yet to be developed. A recently published study conducted at Grampians Health Services (GHS) developed two risk prediction models for predicting pneumothorax and intercostal catheter (ICC) insertion. This study aims to validate these models.

Methods

This is a single‐centre, retrospective cohort study performed at GHS. Patients with a CT‐guided lung biopsy between January 2020 and July 2023 were included, alongside target‐lesion characteristics, procedural‐related factors and complications. Predicted probabilities for pneumothorax and ICC insertion were generated for each patient, and the diagnostic accuracy of the previous risk prediction models was evaluated the area under the receiver operating characteristic. A Youden Index was used to determine the sensitivity and specificity at the optimal probability thresholds.

Results

The validation found the model published by GHS demonstrated a diagnostic accuracy of 0.695 (95% CI: 0.601–0.695) for predicting pneumothorax following CT‐guided percutaneous biopsy. The model for predicting intercostal catheter insertion had a diagnostic accuracy of 0.762 (95% CI: 0.642–0.762). The sensitivity for predicting pneumothorax and ICC insertion was 81.97% and 92.86%, respectively, for their optimum probability thresholds.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the previously published models may be useful in predicting pneumothoraces and ICC insertion following CT‐guided percutaneous biopsy. We recommend these models as an adjunctive tool to aid in clinical decision‐making during the peri‐procedural management of these patients pending further validation with an external cohort.
Genotype and Haplotype Analysis With In Silico Prediction of TMPRSS2 Gene in Jordanian Population
Authors: Abu‐Almfalfal Razan Issam , Jarrar Yazun Bashir , Gharaibeh Munir
Published: December 2024

Background

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has rapidly become a global health concern. The entry of the virus into host cells is facilitated by the transmembrane protease serine 2 (TMPRSS2) receptor, and genetic variations in the TMPRSS2 gene may influence disease susceptibility. However, there is a lack of knowledge regarding TMPRSS2 genetic variants and haplotypes in the Jordanian population.

Aims

This study aimed to characterize the genotype and haplotype variations in the TMPRSS2 binding domain with SARS‐CoV‐2 among Jordanian volunteers.

Methods

The binding domain of TMPRSS2 with SARS‐CoV‐2 (Exons 9 and 10) was amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for a random sample of 120 healthy unrelated Jordanian volunteers, followed by Sanger DNA sequencing for the PCR products. The effect of the novel genetic variants on the TMPRSS2 protein structure was predicted using in silico methods.

Results

The results showed significant (p < 0.05, chi‐square) allele frequencies for known TMPRSS2 variants, with c.888C > T being the most prevalent among Jordanian volunteers. Novel genetic variants, including c.869A > G and c.923T > A, were also identified, with the latter being the most common novel variant. Haplotype analysis showed that the most prevalent TMPRSS2 haplotype is c.911G/1051A/1052T/1010 + 45C/1011 − 38T/1011 − 52C/1011 − 54A. In silico programs predicted that TMPRSS2 c.923T > A and c.1052T > A variants affect transmembrane proteins and catalytic sites.

Conclusions

This research provides information about the gene structure of the TMPRSS2 binding domain in Jordanians. Some of the identified variants, especially c.923T > A, may influence protein function, warranting further in vitro and in vivo investigations. In addition, further clinical research studies are needed to link the identified TMPRSS2 variants with COVID‐19 susceptibility and severity among Jordanians.
The probability of pregnancy in 100 episodes of sexual intercourse: A measure of male contraceptive performance
Authors: Amory John K.
Published: December 2024

Background

Accurately judging the efficacy of contraceptives is vital for preventing unintended pregnancy. The Pearl index and life table analysis describe female contraceptive performance. However, they are not ideal for quantifying male contraceptive efficacy given differences between male and female methods. In particular, male contraceptives like condoms are used “on demand” rather than long‐term like female contraceptives. Additionally, the number of episodes of sexual intercourse, a key determinant of risk, is not considered. Lastly, men can father concurrent pregnancies in more than one woman. For these reasons, a male‐specific measure may provide a more accurate measure of male contraceptive efficacy.

Objectives and Methods

As each episode of heterosexual intercourse within a fertile couple is associated with an approximately 3% risk of pregnancy, the chance of an unintended pregnancy with a given number of episodes of sexual intercourse can be modeled with and without contraceptives of various effectiveness.

Results

Such modeling demonstrates that unintended pregnancy is strongly associated with both the number of episodes of sexual intercourse and the efficacy of the method. Based on these models, I propose a novel metric for male contraceptive efficacy called the Probability of Pregnancy100, defined as the percent chance of an unintended pregnancy occurring with 100 episodes of intercourse. Probability of Pregnancy100 should be easy for men to understand and is applicable to men with multiple sexual partners or men using “on‐demand” contraceptives.

Discussion and conclusions

The prevention of unintended pregnancy by a male contraceptive is strongly influenced by both method efficacy and sexual frequency. Probability of Pregnancy100 may offer a better measure of male contraceptive efficacy compared to the Pearl index and life table analysis as it takes sexual frequency into account; however, Probability of Pregnancy100 will need to be tested prospectively in male contraceptive studies alongside the Pearl index and life table analysis to determine its utility compared to these existing measures of contraceptive efficacy.
Monkeypox virus infection in pregnancy: description of two cases reported to the Colombian National Institute of Health
Authors: Marcela Mercado‐Reyes , Marcela Daza , Yazmín Rodríguez Peña , Paula Araque Muñoz , Carlos Franco‐Muñoz , Hector Ruíz‐Moreno , Sheryll Corchuelo Chavarro , Claudia Portilla Velandia , Johana Osorio Usaquén , Greace Ávila Mellizo , Nubia Narvaez Díaz , Diana Walteros , Katherinne Cortes Palacio , Ángel Piñeros Daza José
Published: December 2024

Monkeypox (mpox), caused by the MPOXV (monkeypox virus), has been endemic in Africa since its first identification in 1958. However, in May 2022, the world witnessed the first global outbreak associated with the West African clade. Even though thousands of cases have been recorded, our understanding of vertical transmission during pregnancy remains restricted due to an absence of reported cases in pregnant women and a lack of adequate clinical descriptions. The cases of two pregnant women, ages 33 and 24, who tested positive for MPOXV at 31 and 13.4 weeks of gestation, respectively, are presented. In all cases, extensive clinical, histological, and molecular examinations of the mothers and neonates revealed no indication of vertical transmission.
The mixed blessing of leader mindfulness: The competing lens of dyadic affective and cognitive conflicts in investigating follower creativity
Authors: Liu Beini , Dust Scott , Xu Minya , Zhang Xinyu
Published: December 2024

Social scientists and practitioners alike, so far, assume that leader mindfulness is inherently beneficial while paying limited attention to its potential drawbacks. Drawing upon social information processing theory, we contend that leader mindfulness is a mixed blessing as it relates to follower creativity. Using two multi‐wave, multi‐source field studies, our findings indicate a negative relationship between leader mindfulness and leader–follower dyadic affective conflict, which in turn increases follower creativity. However, leader mindfulness has a negative relationship with leader–follower dyadic cognitive conflict, resulting in decreased follower creativity. Further, perceived leaders' organizational embodiment strengthens the positive indirect effect of leader mindfulness on follower creativity through leader–follower dyadic affective conflict, whereasperceived leaders' organizational embodiment does not moderate the indirect effect through leader–follower dyadic cognitive conflict. Theoretical and practical insights regarding leader mindfulness and follower creativity are discussed.
From Circum Red Sea Sources to the Levant Basin Sink: An Integrated Provenance Study of Oligocene–Miocene Siliciclastic Sediments From Deep‐Sea Boreholes
Authors: Glazer Adar , Avigad Dov , Morag Navot
Published: December 2024

The Levant Basin of the Eastern Mediterranean accumulated voluminous siliciclastic sediments during the Oligocene–Miocene. The deep‐sea section has attracted significant interest as it contains world‐class hydrocarbon reservoirs (‘Tamar Sands Play’). Our recent sandstone provenance study revealed that the hydrocarbon‐bearing, lower Miocene ‘Tamar Sands’ were recycled from older quartz‐rich sandstones that covered the Arabian flank of the Red Sea Rift. However, sandstones constitute just a third of the thickness of the Oligocene–Miocene siliciclastic section in the Levant Basin, with the rest being mainly composed of shales. Unravelling the provenance of the shale fraction is therefore essential for a comprehensive reconstruction of the Oligocene–Miocene source‐to‐sink system of the Levant Basin. In the present study, we examined the mineralogy and Sr‐Nd isotopes of clay samples retrieved from deep‐sea boreholes that penetrated the Oligocene–Miocene siliciclastic section. The isotopic composition of most clay fractions resembles that of Nile Delta sediments, indicating that unlike the ‘Tamar Sands’, their dominant provenance lay in NE Africa. Our investigations show that they were derived from Neoproterozoic basement rocks of the Arabian‐Nubian Shield and Tertiary continental flood basalts. The absence of chlorite and serpentine negates detrital contribution from the Arabia‐Eurasia suture in the north. Compilation of the available thermochronology data and major geologic events shows that the accumulation of the siliciclastic section in the Levant Basin coalesced with uplift of the continental areas around the Red Sea. The marked switch to shale deposition recognised in the basin during the late early Miocene signifies the downfall of the ‘quartzose’ Arabian sediment transport system, when it was partially captured by the evolving Dead Sea Transform valley. Our study highlights the strength of coupling sand and clay provenance investigations in source‐to‐sink studies of sedimentary basins.
Origin stories: how does learned migratory behaviour arise in populations?
Authors: Fugate Janey , Wallace Cody , Aikens Ellen O. , Jesmer Brett , Kauffman Matthew
Published: December 2024

Although decades of research have deepened our understanding of the proximate triggers and ultimate drivers of migrations for a range of taxa, how populations establish migrations remains a mystery. However, recent studies have begun to illuminate the interplay between genetically inherited and learned migrations, opening the door to the evaluation of how migration may be learned, established, and maintained. Nevertheless, for migratory species where the role of learning is evident, we lack a comprehensive framework for understanding how populations learn specific routes and refine migratory movements over time (i.e., their origins). This review draws on advances in behavioural and movement ecology to offer a comprehensive framework for how populations could transition from resident to migratory by connecting cognitive research on fine‐scale perceptual cues and movement decisions with literature on learning and cultural transmission, to the emergent pattern of migration. We synthesize the multiple cognitive mechanisms and processes that allow a population to respond to seasonal resource limitation, then encode spatial and environmental information about resource availability in memory and engage in social learning to navigate their landscapes and track resources better. A rise in global reintroduction efforts, along with human‐induced rapid shifts in environmental cues and changing landscapes make evaluating the origins of this threatened behaviour more urgent than ever.