bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
IDENTIFICATION OF MODIFIER GENE VARIANTS OVERREPRESENTED IN FAMILIAL HYPOMAGNESEMIA WITH HYPERCALCIURIA AND NEPHROCALCINOSIS PATIENTS WITH A MORE AGGRESSIVE RENAL PHENOTYPE
Authors: Vall-Palomar M , Morata J , Duran M , Torchia J , Tonda R , Ferrer M , Sánchez A , Cantero-Recasens G , Ariceta G , Meseguer A , Martinez C 
Published: November 2023

ABSTRACTInter- and intra-familial phenotypic variability is a common observation in genetic diseases. In this study we have gathered a highly unique patient cohort suffering from an ultra-rare renal disease, familial hypomagnesemia with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis, with a deep clinical and genetic characterization. In this cohort, we have previously reported a high phenotypic variability between patients harbouring exactly the same mutation in homozygosis (70% of patients), even between siblings. Patients were stratified at the extremes according to their estimated glomerular filtration rate annual decline and subjected to whole exome sequencing aiming to find candidate phenotype modifier genes. The analysis pipeline applied has allowed us to find, for the first time, 17 putative modifier gene variants associated with a more aggressive renal phenotype. Our results led to a panel of genetic variants in novel candidate modifier genes which will be useful to stratify patients according to their risk of developing renal failure earlier in life and, therefore, direct them to more appropriate and personalized therapeutic options.
Investigating the Interaction Between EEG and fNIRS: A Multimodal Network Analysis of Brain Connectivity
Authors: Blanco Rosmary , Koba Cemal , Crimi Alessandro 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe brain is a complex system with functional and structural networks. Different neuroimaging methods have their strengths and limitations, depending on the signals they measure. Combining techniques like electroencephalography (EEG) and functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) techniques has gained interest, but understanding how the information derived from these modalities is related remains an exciting open question. Successful integration of these modalities requires a sophisticated mathematical framework that goes beyond simple comparative analyses. The multilayer network model has emerged as a promising approach. This study is an extended version of the conference paper “Resting State Brain Connectivity Analysis from EEG and FNIRS Signals” [5]. In this study, we explored the brain network properties obtained from EEG and fNIRS data using graph analysis. Additionally, we adopted the multilayer network model to evaluate the benefits of combining multiple modalities compared to using a single modality. A small-world network structure was observed in the rest, right motor imagery, and left motor imagery tasks in both modalities. We found that EEG captures faster changes in neural activity, thus providing a more precise estimation of the timing of information transfer between brain regions in RS. fNIRS provides insights into the slower hemodynamic responses associated with longer-lasting and sustained neural processes in cognitive tasks. The multilayer approach outperformed unimodal analyses, offering a richer understanding of brain function. Complementarity between EEG and fNIRS was observed, particularly during tasks, as well as a certain level of redundancy and complementarity between the multimodal and the unimodal approach, which is dependent on the modality and on the specific brain state. Overall, the results highlight differences in how EEG and fNIRS capture brain network topology in RS and tasks and emphasize the value of integrating multiple modalities for a comprehensive view of brain connectivity and function.
Were the higher educational institutions (HEIs) in Oman ready to face pedagogical challenges during COVID-19?
Authors: Alexopoulos Charalampos , Al-Tamimi Tariq Ali Said , Saxena Stuti 
Published: November 2023

PurposeWhen the repercussions of COVID-19 were being absorbed by the world, the higher educational institutions (HEIs) were conceiving of strategies to run educational institutions on remote basis too, including the challenges linked with the teaching–learning as well as the management and other departmental needs. Leaning itself on the teaching–learning tectonic shifts amid the COVID-19 climes, the study reviews the status of “readiness” of the HEIs in Oman while bearing this in mind that the usage of information and communications technology (ICT) for distance learning and conventional learning has been considered as one of the parameters to judge the “quality” of the HEIs in Oman.Design/methodology/approachDocumentary analysis alongside an in-depth reading of the quality audit reports sourced from the Oman Academic Accreditation Authority, which are publicly accessible are being referred for driving home the arguments in the study.FindingsThe study concludes that despite the case being in favor of distance learning from early on, the same doesn’t get reflected in the conclusions derived in the research conducted for assessing the teaching–learning mechanisms during the COVID-19 period. Therefore, the HEIs’ “readiness” in terms of ensuring the smooth transitioning to the remote learning pedagogical arrangements for meeting the challenges of the COVID-19 wasn’t efficacious.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study may be followed up with an understanding as to how the HEIs of Oman need to incorporate the perspectives of all the concerned stakeholders for the refurbishment of the teaching–learning process, especially in times of contingencies.Practical implicationsApart from the policy-makers, the management of the HEIs of Oman needs to appreciate the need to be proactive and appreciative of the inclusion of ICT tools and techniques in the mainstream pedagogical settings.Originality/valueNotwithstanding the emphasis upon the preparedness and readiness for tackling the challenges posed by the COVID-19 for the HEIs in Oman, no study has attempted to delve into the issue succinctly—the present study fills this gap.
Memory-dependent derivative grey Bernoulli model and its application in electricity generation forecast
Authors: Zhang Yonghong , Li Shouwei , Li Jingwei , Tang Xiaoyu 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThis paper aims to develop a novel grey Bernoulli model with memory characteristics, which is designed to dynamically choose the optimal memory kernel function and the length of memory dependence period, ultimately enhancing the model's predictive accuracy.Design/methodology/approachThis paper enhances the traditional grey Bernoulli model by introducing memory-dependent derivatives, resulting in a novel memory-dependent derivative grey model. Additionally, fractional-order accumulation is employed for preprocessing the original data. The length of the memory dependence period for memory-dependent derivatives is determined through grey correlation analysis. Furthermore, the whale optimization algorithm is utilized to optimize the cumulative order, power index and memory kernel function index of the model, enabling adaptability to diverse scenarios.FindingsThe selection of appropriate memory kernel functions and memory dependency lengths will improve model prediction performance. The model can adaptively select the memory kernel function and memory dependence length, and the performance of the model is better than other comparison models.Research limitations/implicationsThe model presented in this article has some limitations. The grey model is itself suitable for small sample data, and memory-dependent derivatives mainly consider the memory effect on a fixed length. Therefore, this model is mainly applicable to data prediction with short-term memory effect and has certain limitations on time series of long-term memory.Practical implicationsIn practical systems, memory effects typically exhibit a decaying pattern, which is effectively characterized by the memory kernel function. The model in this study skillfully determines the appropriate kernel functions and memory dependency lengths to capture these memory effects, enhancing its alignment with real-world scenarios.Originality/valueBased on the memory-dependent derivative method, a memory-dependent derivative grey Bernoulli model that more accurately reflects the actual memory effect is constructed and applied to power generation forecasting in China, South Korea and India.
Investigating students' perception about LMS-based online examination practices
Authors: Shard  , Kumar Devesh , Koul Sapna 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThis study aims to gain insights into how students perceive online examination practices and evaluation, as well as identify the key factors that impact their intentions toward online exams.Design/methodology/approachThis empirical study conducted in India utilized an online survey method between May 24 and June 14, 2022. The data were collected from 712 undergraduate and postgraduate students through a Google Docs questionnaire. Descriptive analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), regression and reliability analysis were conducted to analyze the data.FindingsThere are many studies related to the adoption of online learning. However, there are limited studies that explore the adoption and acceptance of online examinations and evaluations. This paper intends to fill this gap and tries to highlight important factors influencing online examination usage by the students. Five important factors emerged in the study include “pedagogy, validity, reliability,” “practicality,” “security,” “facilitating condition” and “intention,” The study concludes that taking tests online is preferred for several reasons, including the perceived increased dependability of grades and the decreased cost, time and effort associated with taking exams.Research limitations/implicationsThis research explores students' perceptions of learning management systems (LMS)-based online exams and provides insights for students to better prepare and adapt. It assists policymakers in developing fair assessment policies and improving LMS platforms. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of e-learning and calls for further research to enhance the effectiveness of online exams. It identifies gaps in existing literature and recommends larger sample sizes, broader representation, longitudinal data collection and conversational methods for future research.Originality/valueThis study shows increasing research on e-learning and online examinations, mostly using quantitative methods. The important variables for understanding students' perceptions of online exams are “pedagogy, validity, reliability,” “practicality,” “security,” “facilitating condition” and “intention.” Concerns raised include validity, fairness and security. Electronic exams are more suitable for formative evaluation, and validity, reliability, security and adaptability are key pillars for successful online testing.
Incidence of sustainability in university performance: evidence of stakeholders’ perceptions at Colombian private higher education institutions
Authors: Hernandez-Diaz Paula M. , Polanco Jorge-Andrés , Osuna-Ramírez Sergio Andrés , Jaillier-Castrillón Erika , Molina-Velasquez Tatiana , Escobar-Sierra Manuela 
Published: November 2023

PurposeThis paper aims to find the incidence of university sustainability, as sustainability practices, in university performance at private universities.Design/methodology/approachQuantitative research using structural equation modelling. Data collection and analysis followed sustainability and performance scales from previous research. The scales were validated by surveying students, teachers and administrative staff of five private universities in Medellin, Colombia. The responses (i.e. 5,344 useful answers) were collected between April 2019 and December 2020 and analysed using the Smart partial least square (PLS) software and the PLS calculation methodology.FindingsThe results confirmed the reliability and validity of the sustainability and performance university measurement models and validated the dimensions proposed to determine sustainability and performance holistically in private universities. The results confirmed that universities implementing sustainability holistically in their system positively impact their performance as higher education institutions. The university sustainability is forecasting the University Performance in about 60% of the universities analysed, with a considerable contribution from sustainability in outreach and strategic management.Research limitations/implicationsThis study was cross-sectional and empirically validated the model of sustainability and performance at five private universities in a single period and territory. A broader validation from longitudinal studies considering other universities in Colombia and Latin America is suggested to understand local and regional trends better.Practical implicationsResults provided a model for better understanding the incidence of sustainability in performance holistically at private universities in developing countries such as Colombia. In addition, the proposed dimensions and model could help regional decision-making on higher education.Originality/valueTo the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is one of the first attempts relating a structural equation model and inter-university research on the incidence of sustainability in private university performance. This work contributes to a local consensus on sustainability and performance models at private universities. Furthermore, from this research emerged a joint policy framework for incorporating sustainability holistically and regionally as an effective strategy for universities and their commitment to sustainable development.
Defining the identity-image gap: an analysis of a collective wine brand
Authors: Spiga Antonio , Cardebat Jean-Marie 
Published: November 2023

Purpose
The brand identity–image gap is a well-known marketing field. However, very little academic work has been done within the wine industry regarding collective brands. With the aim of filling this gap, this paper analyzes and describes the relationship between identity and the image of Bordeaux wines. It is intended as a collective wine brand.

Design/methodology/approach
From a positivist–functionalist perspective, a 45-question survey has been administered online to N = 53 internal brand operators (winery owners or managers) and to N = 655 external consumers (mainly focusing on 18–25 year-old segment). Nonprobabilistic sampling techniques have been used. Questions were structured within a semantic opposition.

Findings
Data analysis has shown that the nine-dimension model (physical, personality, culture, self-image, reflection, relationship, positioning, vision and heritage) is capable of collecting a richer and more pertinent set of information concerning the brand identity; statistically significant gaps have been found in 25 out of 45 items; counterintuitively, the consumers have a very different opinion about the brand compared with existing ideas. Direct implications are that internal brand operators may suffer from imposter syndrome; information asymmetry may play a central role in brand perception; and the brand lacks symbolic and inspirational functions.

Originality/value
Providing an original model to analyze and evaluate the brand identity–image gap, specifically adapted for collective wine brands, this work contributes to the literature by increasing the knowledge about brand identity issues.
The impact of partner perfectionism on audit quality: the mediating role of professional skepticism in the Egyptian context
Authors: Balboula Mohamed Zaki , Elfar Eman Elsayed 
Published: November 2023

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the relationship between audit partner perfectionism traits and audit quality in Egypt, emphasizing the mediating role of professional skepticism.

Design/methodology/approach
A mixed-methods approach was used, combining a questionnaire and scenario-based questions for audit partners with secondary data from audited financial statements. The relationships between study variables were tested using structural equation modeling.

Findings
Results denote a significant indirect effect between partner perfectionism traits and audit quality through their professional skepticism. Perfectionism has a significant positive impact on partner professional skepticism, and skepticism influences audit quality.

Practical implications
This study offers opportunities to enhance financial reporting quality, allowing investors to confidently allocate financial market resources. Audit firms can consider the personality traits of auditors in the selection process, team formation and designing training programs. Regulators can use these findings to consider the role of personality traits and attitudes in audit quality when developing regulations and quality assurance systems in Egypt.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no studies have examined the effect of partners’ perfectionism traits on professional skepticism and audit quality, especially in Egypt. By examining audit partners, who shape the tone at the top and are accountable for reputation, this study adds a novel dimension to understanding the impact of their qualities on audit outcomes. Moreover, combining survey and secondary data allows us to link these qualities with audit quality, objectively testing our hypotheses.
Additively manufactured rectangular waveguides for the electromagnetic characterization of materials using the transmission/reflection line method
Authors: Smith Connor Shane , Julius Alanna , Arbeeny Christian , Stevens John Davenport 
Published: November 2023

Purpose
Radio frequency (RF) technology relies on the electromagnetic properties of the materials used, which includes their complex permittivities and loss tangents. To measure these properties, techniques for material characterization such as the transmission/reflection method are used in conjunction with conversion techniques to calculate these values from scattering parameters. Unfortunately, these techniques rely on relatively expensive rectangular waveguide adaptors and components, especially if testing over large frequency ranges. This paper aims to overcome this challenge by developing a more affordable test equipment solution based on additively manufactured waveguide sections.

Design/methodology/approach
To evaluate the effectiveness of using additively manufactured waveguides to perform electromagnetic characterization with the transmission/reflection method, samples of PLA Tough with varying infill percentages and samples made from several Formlabs photopolymer resins are fabricated and analyzed.

Findings
Results show that the method yielded permittivity and loss tangent values for the measured materials that generally agree with those found in the literature, supporting its credibility.

Originality/value
The accessibility of this measurement technique will ideally allow for more electromagnetic material characterization to occur and expand the possible use of additive manufacturing in future RF designs. This work also provides characterization of several Formlabs photopolymer resins, which have not been widely analyzed in the current literature.
A multi‐study analysis of gut microbiome data from the blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) emphasises the impact of depuration on biological interpretation
Authors: Griffin Tyler W. , Darsan Mya A. , Collins Hannah I. , Holohan Bridget A. , Pierce Melissa L. , Ward J. Evan 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe blue mussel (Mytilus edulis) is a suspension feeder which has been used in gut‐microbiome surveys. Although raw 16S sequence data are often publicly available, unifying secondary analyses are lacking. The present work analysed raw data from seven projects conducted by one group over 7 years. Although each project had different motivations, experimental designs and conclusions, all selected samples were from the guts of M. edulis collected from a single location in Long Island Sound. The goal of this analysis was to determine which independent factors (e.g., collection date, depuration status) were responsible for governing composition and diversity in the gut microbiomes. Results indicated that whether mussels had undergone depuration, defined here as voidance of faeces in a controlled, no‐food period, was the primary factor that governed gut microbiome composition. Gut microbiomes from non‐depurated mussels were mixtures of resident and transient communities and were influenced by temporal factors. Resident communities from depurated mussels were influenced by the final food source and length of time host mussels were held under laboratory conditions. These findings reinforce the paradigm that gut microbiota are divided into resident and transient components and suggest that depuration status should be taken into consideration when designing and interpreting future experiments.
Vaginal micronised progesterone for the prevention of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Melo Pedro , Devall Adam , Shennan Andrew H. , Vatish Manu , Becker Christian M. , Granne Ingrid , Papageorghiou Aris T. , Mol Ben W. , Coomarasamy Arri 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundTreatment with vaginal progesterone reduces the risk of miscarriage and preterm birth in selected high‐risk women. The hypothesis that vaginal progesterone can reduce the risk of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) is unexplored.ObjectivesTo summarise the evidence on the effectiveness of vaginal progesterone to reduce the risk of HDP.Search strategyWe searched Embase (OVID), MEDLINE (OVID), PubMed, CENTRAL and clinicaltrials.gov from inception until 20 June 2023.Selection criteriaWe included placebo‐controlled randomised trials (RCTs) of vaginal progesterone for the prevention or treatment of any pregnancy complications.Data collection and analysisWe extracted absolute event numbers for HDP and pre‐eclampsia in women receiving vaginal progesterone or placebo, and meta‐analysed the data with a random effects model. We appraised the certainty of the evidence using GRADE methodology.Main resultsThe quantitative synthesis included 11 RCTs, of which three initiated vaginal progesterone in the first trimester, and eight in the second or third trimesters. Vaginal progesterone started in the first trimester of pregnancy lowered the risk of any HDP (risk ratio [RR] 0.71, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.53–0.93, 2 RCTs, n = 4431 women, I2 = 0%; moderate‐certainty evidence) and pre‐eclampsia (RR 0.61, 95% CI 0.41–0.92, 3 RCTs, n = 5267 women, I2 = 0%; moderate‐certainty evidence) when compared with placebo. Vaginal progesterone started in the second or third trimesters was not associated with a reduction in HDP (RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.67–2.12, 3 RCTs, n = 1602 women, I2 = 9%; low‐certainty evidence) or pre‐eclampsia (RR 0.97, 95% CI 0.71–1.31, 5 RCTs, n = 4274 women, I2 = 0%; low‐certainty evidence).ConclusionsOur systematic review found first‐trimester initiated vaginal micronised progesterone may reduce the risk of HDP and pre‐eclampsia.