bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growing extended Laughlin states in a quantum gas microscope: A patchwork construction
Authors: Palm F. A. , Kwan J. , Bakkali-Hassani B. , Greiner M. , Schollwöck U. , Goldman N. , Grusdt F.
Published: February 2024

The study of fractional Chern insulators and their exotic anyonic excitations poses a major challenge in current experimental and theoretical research. Quantum simulators, in particular ultracold atoms in optical lattices, provide a promising platform to realize, manipulate, and understand such systems with a high degree of controllability. Recently, an atomic ν=1/2 Laughlin state has been realized experimentally for a small system of two particles on 4×4 sites [Léonard , ]. The next challenge concerns the preparation of Laughlin states in extended systems, ultimately giving access to anyonic braiding statistics or gapless chiral edge-states in systems with open boundaries. Here, we propose and analyze an experimentally feasible scheme to grow larger Laughlin states by connecting multiple copies of the already-existing 4×4 system. First, we present a minimal setting obtained by coupling two of such patches, producing an extended 8×4 system with four particles. Then, we analyze different preparation schemes, setting the focus on two shapes for the extended system, and discuss their respective advantages: While growing striplike lattices could give experimental access to the central charge, squarelike geometries are advantageous for creating quasihole excitations in view of braiding protocols. We highlight the robust quantization of the fractional quasihole charge upon using our preparation protocol. We benchmark the performance of our patchwork preparation scheme by comparing it to a protocol based on coupling one-dimensional chains. We find that the patchwork approach consistently gives higher target-state fidelities, especially for elongated systems. The results presented here pave the way towards near-term implementations of extended Laughlin states in quantum gas microscopes and the subsequent exploration of exotic properties of topologically ordered systems in experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Generating symmetry-protected long-range entanglement
Authors: Dutta Shovan , Kuhr Stefan , Cooper Nigel R.
Published: February 2024

Entanglement between spatially distant qubits is perhaps the most counterintuitive and vital resource for distributed quantum computing. However, despite a few special cases, there is no known general procedure to maximally entangle two distant parts of an interacting many-body system. Here we present a symmetry-based approach, whereby one applies several timed pulses to drive a system to a particular symmetry sector with maximal bipartite long-range entanglement. As a concrete example, we demonstrate how a simple sequence of on-site pulses on a qubit array can efficiently produce multiple stable nonlocal Bell pairs, realizable in present-day atomic and photonic experimental platforms. More generally, our approach paves a route for exotic state preparation by harnessing symmetry. For instance, we show how it allows the creation of long-sought-after superconducting η pairs in a repulsive Hubbard model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Organic food-buying intention drivers: a study based on means-end chain theory
Authors: Oliveira Alessandro Silva de , Souki Gustavo Quiroga , Vilas Boas Luiz Henrique de Barros
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Understanding how attributes, consequences and values (A-C-V) influence the predisposition to purchase and buying intention of organic food consumers (OFC) is crucial for its stakeholders. This study aims to (1) investigate whether OFC perceptions of the A-C-V impact their predisposition to purchase and buying intention; (2) examine the mediating effect of predisposition to purchase on the relationship between OFC personal values and their buying intentions and (3) verify whether consumers with distinct levels of organic food-buying intention perceive differently of the A-C-V, predisposition to purchase and consumption frequency.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative study comprised 307 consumers who filled out a form about their perceptions of organic foods’ A-C-V and their consumption frequency, purchasing predisposition and buying intention. Partial least squares strutural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) tested the hypothetical model that resorted to the means-end chain (MEC) theory (Gutman, 1982). Cluster analysis based on OFC’s buying intentions compared their perceptions of the A-C-V, purchasing predisposition and consumption frequency.

Findings

The OFC’s perception of the attributes of these foods impacts the consequences of their consumption and values. Such values positively influence their purchase predisposition and buying intention. Predisposition to purchase measured the relationship between OFC values and purchase intention. Three OFC clusters were identified according to their buying intentions. Such groups perceive the A-C-V singularly and have different purchasing predispositions and consumption frequencies.

Originality/value

OFC values directly influence buying intentions. However, the predisposition to purchase strongly mediates the relationship between values and buying intentions, producing an indirect impact more notable than a direct one. It brings academic and managerial contributions to organic food stakeholders.
Set up a supply chain observatory through the comparison of multi-criteria parsimonious methods
Authors: Butturi Maria Angela , Lolli Francesco , Gamberini Rita
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study presents the development of a supply chain (SC) observatory, which is a benchmarking solution to support companies within the same industry in understanding their positioning in terms of SC performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study is used to demonstrate the set-up of the observatory. Twelve experts on automatic equipment for the wrapping and packaging industry were asked to select a set of performance criteria taken from the literature and evaluate their importance for the chosen industry using multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques. To handle the high number of criteria without requiring a high amount of time-consuming effort from decision-makers (DMs), five subjective, parsimonious methods for criteria weighting are applied and compared.

Findings

A benchmarking methodology is presented and discussed, aimed at DMs in the considered industry. Ten companies were ranked with regard to SC performance. The ranking solution of the companies was on average robust since the general structure of the ranking was very similar for all five weighting methodologies, though simplified-analytic hierarchy process (AHP) was the method with the greatest ability to discriminate between the criteria of importance and was considered faster to carry out and more quickly understood by the decision-makers.

Originality/value

Developing an SC observatory usually requires managing a large number of alternatives and criteria. The developed methodology uses parsimonious weighting methods, providing DMs with an easy-to-use and time-saving tool. A future research step will be to complete the methodology by defining the minimum variation required for one or more criteria to reach a specific position in the ranking through the implementation of a post-fact analysis.
Revising the basic principles of integrated marketing communications during a health-related crisis: the case of Croatian tourism and hospitality industry
Authors: Šerić Maja , Vernuccio Maria , Pastore Alberto
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Aligning corporate communications through different information sources is a great challenge for marketers, especially those operating in the tourism sector, which has been harshly affected by the recent COVID-19 pandemic. This paper provides a deep analysis of the implementation of seven basic principles of the integrated marketing communications (IMC) paradigm in a crisis situation.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews with tourism and hospitality service providers were conducted in the fourth quarter of 2021 in Croatia, a destination that showed remarkable results in terms of the number of international tourist arrivals during the pandemic.

Findings

Most firms successfully transitioned from tactical to strategic IMC implementation. Some problems were reported in the coordination of communication tools and channels. Whereas the use of digital technology was enhanced, database management did not receive sufficient attention. Message clarity represented the greatest challenge, while consumer-centric communication was the most neglected principle. Relationship building was pursued mainly through B2B rather than B2C communication, whereas brand equity development pursued through communication mix mostly focused on increases in awareness, perceived quality and attitudinal loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This research is qualitative in nature and provides opinions on IMC adoption from the managerial perspective only.

Practical implications

This paper provides guidelines for the successful integration of marketing communications (marcom) in an extremely ambiguous and uncertain environment.

Originality/value

The contribution of this work lies in the proposal of a new refined and expanded theoretical framework of IMC principles and numerous marcom strategies for operating during the COVID-19 pandemic, thus providing relevant implications for academia and industry.
Effects of university organizational culture on student academic behavior in Indonesia
Authors: Burhanuddin Burhanuddin , Ben Francisco , Supriyanto Achmad , Sunandar Asep , Sunarni Sunarni , Sumarsono Raden Bambang
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate (1) how organizational culture influence student academic behavior at universities in Indonesia; (2) if there is any difference between male and female students in perceiving elements of organizational culture and its effects on student academic behavior; and (3) if there is any difference among students from different university origin in perceiving elements of organizational culture and its effects on student academic behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a part of quantitative research with a prediction design involving survey questionnaire. Participants consist of 800 students as survey respondents that were selected purposively from six government universities of the specified cities in Indonesia. Measures are developed and validated through a confirmatory factor analysis. Data were analyzed using multivariate techniques and path analysis to examine effects of organizational culture types on student academic behavior.

Findings

Findings of this study indicate that in general organizational culture significantly influenced the growth of student academic behavior.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to public or government universities in Indonesia, that is why and the findings are not intended to generalize all universities in the world.

Practical implications

Leaders of the university organizations or units are suggested to improve their capacities in exploring the trend of organizational cultures, develop and adopt the cultures that contribute to the growth of student academic behavior.

Social implications

The study provides high valued insights for university organizations especially people involved in the process of university leadership and management on how they deal effectively with organizational situations including types organizational culture, and develop the cultures that contribute to the growth of student academic behavior.

Originality/value

The study adds to the theories of organizational culture and the growth of student academic behavior on campus. It provides broad insights on types of organizational culture used in universities and its effects on academic behaviors performed by students in campus environment.
Taking the edge of ostracism – a slow death: from socio-legal perspective
Authors: Chaudhury Swati , Gupta Aditi , Nair Kiran , Vats Apoorva , Chaudhuri Ranjan , Hussain Zahid , Chatterjee Sheshadri
Published: February 2024

Purpose

First, with real-life examples and current research, this study aims to demonstrate the existence of various forms of ostracism (linguistic, gender, social and workplace). Second, following the “need-threat model,” this research addresses the previously unaddressed topic of coping with, reducing, mitigating or curbing workplace ostracism. Moreover, the researchers also proposed a “multiplying effect model” of ostracism.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was gathered from 199 service sector employees. The NVivo software is used for the thematic analysis of qualitative data(suggestions) gathered using open ended question on how to mitigate/reduce/curb ostracism.

Findings

The results generated were the suggestive measures, which were further categorized under three major themes: individual, society and organizational. The measures to reduce, mitigate and stop the practices of workplace ostracism can be initiated on all these three levels.

Originality/value

This is the only study that addresses the subject of decreasing, alleviating or eliminating workplace ostracism and explains the compounding effect of ostracism by suggesting a multiplying effect model. The study will pique the interest of the government and legislators to propose legal measures to prevent ostracism and achieve sustainable development goals (gender equality and reduced inequalities. The study’s practical, social, theoretical and managerial utility are discussed in the implications section.
Public administration contributes to happiness: a study on the relationship between public value and happiness in Switzerland
Authors: Meynhardt Timo , Strathoff Pepe , Bardeli Jessica , Brieger Steven
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In public management research, the focus in the public value debate has been on public administration organizations’ broader societal outcomes. Public value describes how public administrations form a vital part of the social context in which people develop and grow. However, there has not yet been an analysis of how public administration contributes to happiness in society.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we empirically analyze the relationship between people’s happiness and the public value of public administration. Our approach is based on a unique Swiss survey dataset comprising 870 individuals.

Findings

We find a positive relationship between public administration’s public value and happiness. We also find preliminary evidence with a moderation analysis that the relationship between a value-creating public administration sector and self-reported happiness is stronger for public administration employees.

Research limitations/implications

While correlation studies cannot claim causal explanations and common method bias may additionally limit any research in social science, we took a number of measures to mitigate related problem. We tested our model in two samples and took both several procedural techniques and a survey design minimizing common method bias.

Practical implications

The paper discusses implications for public sector performance measurement for public management and practitioners.

Social implications

This study calls for a more positive view on the multiple functions public administration performs for society. After an era of critical voices, our study helps reclaim public administration as a positive force for society at large in times of grand challenges, such as climate crisis, demographics and digitization.

Originality/value

This study has highlighted the importance between public administration’s public value and happiness in Swiss public service organizations. The study also showed that an employment in the public administration contributes to the happiness of individuals and beyond to society.
“I think exactly the same”—trust in SMIs and online purchase intention: a moderation mediation analysis using PLS-SEM
Authors: Khan Ariba , Khan Zebran , Nabi Mohammed Kamalun
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the moderating effect of homophily between trust in social media influencers (SMIs) and credibility of the post in influencer marketing by incorporating the similarity attraction theory (SAT) and analysing the effect of trust in SMIs on online purchase intention and credibility of the post. This study also explored the mediating role of influencers’ credibility of the post between trust in SMIs and online purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 417 respondents in Jaipur, India, using an online questionnaire via Google Forms. A convenience sampling technique was employed to collect the data. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to test the proposed hypotheses with the help of SmartPLS version 4.

Findings

The results exhibit a positive and significant influence of trust in SMIs on credibility of the post and online purchase intention. Also, this study found a positive and significant relationship between credibility of the post and online purchase intention. Additionally, credibility of the post had a positive and significant mediation role in the relationship between trust in SMIs and online purchase intention. In addition, homophily positively moderated the relationship between trust in SMIs and credibility of the post.

Practical implications

The findings of this study can be used by marketing professionals working in the e-commerce industry to ensure their continued in success using the right influencers for their specific target audiences and help them create and implement more effective promotional strategies, increasing brand awareness, announcing sales, using them for creative content and so on.

Originality/value

Until now, there has been no study in the Indian context that has tested the moderation effect of homophily between the trust in SMIs and credibility of the post by incorporating the SAT, according to the researchers’ knowledge. Furthermore, this novel piece of research explored the relationship between trust in SMIs and online purchase intention with credibility of the post as a mediator.
Shattering the ceiling: exploring culture and religion’s impact on female empowerment in the Nigerian hospitality industry
Authors: Ukachukwu Amara , Rahimi Roya
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study addresses the persistent impact of patriarchal societal structures on women’s empowerment in Nigeria, where social power, political authority and autonomy continue to elude them. Despite advancements made by women in workplaces worldwide, gender inequalities prevail, particularly in the Nigerian hotel industry. Existing qualitative evidence on the intersection of gender, culture and religion in shaping gender diversity and career progression within this industry remains limited. To address this gap, this study employs intersectionality and hegemonic masculinity frameworks to explore the influence of local cultures, religion and gender practices on gender imbalances in three distinct cultural settings in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from in-depth interviews with 38 hotel workers, this research provides original insights into their lived experiences, offering a deeper understanding of the narratives underlying gender inequality statistics. By delving beyond surface-level observations, this study uncovers the multifaceted dynamics that perpetuate gender imbalances. By examining the interplay between gender, culture and religion, this research contributes to a nuanced comprehension of the factors that shape career trajectories in the Nigerian hotel industry.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal the enduring influence of patriarchal societal structures, highlighting the challenges faced by women in accessing social power, political authority and autonomy. By extending intersectionality and hegemonic masculinity approaches, this research unveils the intricate stories that illustrate the underlying complexities of gender imbalances. In doing so, it fills critical gaps in the qualitative evidence surrounding gender diversity and career progression in the Nigerian hotel industry.

Originality/value

This study is original in its comprehensive examination of the intersection of gender, culture and religion in the Nigerian hotel industry. It offers unique insights by conducting in-depth interviews with 38 hotel workers, unravelling the underlying factors contributing to gender imbalances. By extending intersectionality and hegemonic masculinity frameworks, it provides a nuanced understanding of the challenges faced by women and highlights the need for tailored interventions to promote gender equality.
Impact of specific liquidity shocks on the bank's solvency
Authors: Dhima Julien , Bruneau Catherine
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to demonstrate and measure the impact of liquidity shocks on a bank’s solvency, especially when the bank does not hold sufficient liquid assets.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model is an extension of Merton’s (1974) model. It assesses the bank’s probability of default over one or two (short) periods relative to liquidity shocks. The shock scenarios are materialised by different net demands for the withdrawal of funds (NDWF) and may lead the bank to sell illiquid assets at a depreciated value. We consider the possibility of second-round effects at the beginning of the second period by introducing the probability of their occurrence. This probability depends on the proportion of illiquid assets put up for sale following the initial shock in different dependency scenarios.

Findings

We observe a positive relationship between the initial NDWF and the bank’s probability of default (particularly over the second period, which is conditional on the second-round effects). However, this relationship is not linear, and a significant proportion of liquid assets makes it possible to attenuate or even eliminate the effects of shock scenarios on bank solvency.

Practical implications

The proposed model enables banks to determine the necessary level of liquid assets, allowing them to resist (i.e. remain solvent) different liquidity shock scenarios for both periods (including eventual second-round effects) under the assumptions considered. Therefore, it can contribute to complementing or improving current internal liquidity adequacy assessment processes (ILAAPs).

Originality/value

The proposed microprudential approach consists of measuring the impact of liquidity risk on a bank’s solvency, complementing the current prudential framework in which these two topics are treated separately. It also complements the existing literature, in which the impact of liquidity risk on solvency risk has not been sufficiently studied. Finally, our model allows banks to manage liquidity using a solvency approach.
A qualitative study unpacking the leader identity development process taking a multi-domain approach
Authors: Ryan Nuala F. , Hammond Michelle , MacCurtain Sarah
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is an in-depth exploration of the processes through which a leader develops their leader identity in strength, meaning and integration, with resulting enrichment outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using multi-domain leader identity theory, this study provides an in-depth exploration of the processes through which a leader develops their leader identity. Set in a healthcare context, 26 participants took part in an 18-month multi-domain leadership development program.

Findings

Findings indicate a typology of leader identities, capturing the dynamic nature of leader identity based on combinations of strength and meaning. Our research also suggests that as the leader develops, their leader identity can change from a differentiated identity as a leader to a more integrated leader identity, with resulting enrichment outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The results suggested value in inherently multi-domain focus using event-based reflection and, as such, are useful in leader identity development programs. We recommend future research generalize to other settings and a larger population.

Practical implications

By taking a multi-domain approach to leader identity development, the leader has the opportunity to learn and develop in a more holistic way. They are encouraged to reflect on and learn from leadership experiences throughout their entire lives, adding breadth and depth that are often overlooked in development programs.

Social implications

Developing leaders who understand who they are and are capable of critical self-reflection and learning is a fundamental requirement for the positive advancement of society.

Originality/value

The value of the study lies in the first longitudinal, work-based empirical study taking an explicitly multi-domain approach to leader identity development.
The impact of digital traceability on sustainability performance: investigating the roles of sustainability-oriented innovation and supply chain learning
Authors: Zhou Xiongyong , Lu Haiyan , Kumar Mangla Sachin
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Food sustainability is a world-acknowledged issue that requires urgent integrated solutions at multi-levels. This study aims to explore how food firms can improve their sustainability performance through digital traceability practices, considering the mediating effect of sustainability-oriented innovation (SOI) and the moderating effect of supply chain learning (SCL) for the food supply chain therein.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical regression with a moderated mediation model is used to test the proposed hypotheses with a sample of 359 food firms from four provinces in China.

Findings

Digital traceability has a significant positive impact on the three pillars of sustainability performances among food firms. SOI (product innovation, process innovation and organisational innovation) mediates the relationship between digital traceability and sustainability performance. SCL plays moderating roles in the linkage between digital traceability and both product and process innovation, respectively.

Originality/value

This paper contributes as one of the first studies to develop digital traceability practices and their sustainability-related improvements for Chinese food firms; it extends studies on supply chain traceability to a typical emerging market. This finding can support food sustainability practice in terms of where and how to invest in sustainability innovation and how to improve economic, environmental and social performance.
The role of a boundary object in legitimacy-making strategies for food waste innovation: the perspective of emergent circular supply chains
Authors: Do Quynh , Mishra Nishikant , Correia Fernando , Eldridge Stephen
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Circular economy advocates innovations that upcycle wastes in the food supply chain to generate high added-value materials. These innovations are not only disruptive and green but also they are often initiated by startups, leading to the emergence of novel open-loop supply chains connecting actors in food and non-food sectors. While earlier research has highlighted the need to seek legitimacy for disruptive innovations to survive and grow, little is known about how these innovations occur and evolve across sectors. This paper aims to elaborate on this mechanism by exploring the function of the circular economy as a boundary object to facilitate legitimacy-seeking strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory multiple-case research design is adopted and features food waste innovation projects with multi-tier supply chains consisting of a food producer, a startup and a buying firm. The study is investigated from the legitimacy and boundary object lenses.

Findings

The findings proposed a framework for the role of a boundary object in enabling legitimacy-seeking strategies for novel food waste innovations. First, the interpretative flexibility of the circular economy affords actors symbolic resources to conduct manipulation strategy to achieve cognitive legitimacy. Second, small-scale work arrangements enable creation strategy for the new supply chain to harness moral legitimacy. Finally, pragmatic legitimacy is granted via diffusion strategy enabled by scalable work arrangements.

Originality/value

This paper provides novel insights into the emergence of food waste innovation from a multi-tier supply chain perspective. It also highlights the key role of the boundary object in the legitimacy-seeking process.
A facies‐constrained geostatistical seismic inversion method based on multi‐scale sparse representation
Authors: Su Qin , Xu Xingrong , Chen Ting , Zong Jingjing , Wang Hua
Published: February 2024

Geostatistical seismic inversion is an important method for establishing high‐resolution reservoir parameter models. There is no accurate representation method for reservoir structural features, and prior information about structural features cannot be incorporated into geostatistical inversion. Based on the assumption of the sparsity of stratigraphic sedimentary features, the same type of structural feature is used to represent the sedimentary pattern of reservoirs within the same facies. Different sparse representation patterns are used to represent the differences in sedimentary patterns between facies. Although changes in depositional environment might result in the multi‐scale characteristics of geological structures for varying sedimentary rhythms, this paper proposes a facies‐constrained geostatistical inversion method based on multi‐scale sparse representation to better accommodate such situation. Using the method of sparse representation combined with wavelet transform, the multi‐scale sedimentary structural features of reservoirs are learned from well‐logging data. Seismic facies and multi‐scale features are used as prior information for geostatistical inversion. Further, the likelihood function is constructed using seismic data to obtain the posterior probability distribution of reservoir parameters. Finally, the accurate inversion result is obtained by using multi‐scale sparse representation as a constraint in the posterior probability distribution of reservoir parameters. Compared with conventional geostatistical methods, this algorithm can better match the structural features of reservoir parameters with varying geological conditions. Field data tests have shown the effectiveness of this method in improving the accuracy and resolution of reservoir parameter structural features.
Calcium and the ecology of photosynthesis in purple sulfur bacteria
Authors: Madigan Michael T. , Sattley W. Matthew , Kimura Yukihiro , Wang‐Otomo Zheng‐Yu
Published: February 2024

The ecological success of purple sulfur bacteria (PSB) is linked to their ability to collect near‐infrared solar energy by membrane‐integrated, pigment–protein photocomplexes. These include a Core complex containing both light‐harvesting 1 (LH1) and reaction centre (RC) components (called the LH1–RC photocomplex) present in all PSB and a peripheral light‐harvesting complex present in most but not all PSB. In research to explain the unusual absorption properties of the thermophilic purple sulfur bacterium Thermochromatium tepidum, Ca2+ was discovered bound to LH1 polypeptides in its LH1–RC; further work showed that calcium controls both the thermostability and unusual spectrum of the Core complex. Since then, Ca2+ has been found in the LH1–RC photocomplexes of several other PSB, including mesophilic species, but not in the LH1–RC of purple non‐sulfur bacteria. Here we focus on four species of PSB—two thermophilic and two mesophilic—and describe how Ca2+ is integrated into and affects their photosynthetic machinery and why this previously overlooked divalent metal is a key nutrient for their ecological success.
A geographic information system approach for estimating state‐wide water quality credit need: Application for planned transportation projects in Virginia
Authors: Nelson Jacob D. , Bowes Benjamin D. , Saby Linnea , Shafiee‐Jood Majid , Goodall Jonathan L.
Published: February 2024

Uncertainty in water quality trading (WQT) markets is frequently cited as a deterrent for participation, with few studies focusing on uncertainty in future water quality credit needs. To reduce this uncertainty, we present a geographic information system (GIS)‐based methodology for estimating an upper bound of water quality credit needs for a set of spatially referenced planned construction projects over a large geographic region. We demonstrate the methodology by applying it to estimate future credit needs for the Virginia Department of Transportation's (VDOT) 6‐year improvement program. The results show that 25% of the state's 6‐digit hydrologic unit code (HUC) basins lack sufficient current credit supply to meet the estimated future credit need from VDOT's planned projects alone. Furthermore, while 70% of the 8‐digit HUCs containing planned projects have a sufficient current credit supply to meet VDOT credit needs, this is true for only 20% of the 10‐digit HUCs. Finally, nearly 25% of the planned transportation projects, representing potentially $9 million in credit purchases at current market rates, will be constructed in catchments with impaired water bodies. State regulations will initially limit these projects to trade with credit banks collocated at the 12‐digit HUC level. This application demonstrates how the GIS‐based methodology can be applied to reduce uncertainty about future WQT credit needs and how needs are aligned with current credit supply.
Esophageal surgical Apgar score (eSAS): A predictor for postoperative morbidity in patients undergoing neoadjuvant therapy and esophagectomy
Authors: Wang Qin , Zhang Chi , Qi Chen , Qiang Yong , Zhang Zheng , Xu Fei , Shen Yi
Published: February 2024

Background

The surgical Apgar score (SAS) quantifying three intraoperative indexes has been confirmed to be significantly associated with postoperative morbidity and prognosis in many surgical specialties. However, there are great limitations in its application for esophageal cancer (EC). This study aimed to assess the predictive capability of esophagectomy SAS (eSAS) in determining postoperative morbidity and overall survival (OS) in EC patients who had undergone neoadjuvant therapy.

Methods

A retrospective evaluation was conducted on a cohort of 221 patients in which surgery‐ and tumor‐related data were extracted and analyzed. Major morbidity was defined as complications meeting the criteria of Clavien‐Dindo classification III or higher during hospitalization. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify potential risk factors for major morbidity. Kaplan–Meier analysis was utilized to calculate the OS and relapse‐free survival (RFS).

Results

The results exhibited that eSAS demonstrated potential predictive value for postoperative morbidity with an optimal cutoff value of 6. The eSAS and diabetes mellitus were two independent risk factors for the major morbidity; however, no correlation between the eSAS and the OS or RFS was detected.

Conclusion

The eSAS could be used as a predictor of major morbidity, while it was not correlated with OS and RFS.
Genome‐wide profiles of DNA damage represent highly accurate predictors of mammalian age
Authors: Cao Huifen , Deng Bolin , Song Tianrong , Lian Jiabian , Xia Lu , Chu Xiaojing , Zhang Yufei , Yang Fujian , Wang Chunlian , Cai Ye , Diao Yong , Kapranov Philipp
Published: February 2024

The identification of novel age‐related biomarkers represents an area of intense research interest. Despite multiple studies associating DNA damage with aging, there is a glaring paucity of DNA damage‐based biomarkers of age, mainly due to the lack of precise methods for genome‐wide surveys of different types of DNA damage. Recently, we developed two techniques for genome‐wide mapping of the most prevalent types of DNA damage, single‐strand breaks and abasic sites, with nucleotide‐level resolution. Herein, we explored the potential of genomic patterns of DNA damage identified by these methods as a source of novel age‐related biomarkers using mice as a model system. Strikingly, we found that models based on genomic patterns of either DNA lesion could accurately predict age with higher precision than the commonly used transcriptome analysis. Interestingly, the informative patterns were limited to relatively few genes and the DNA damage levels were positively or negatively correlated with age. These findings show that previously unexplored high‐resolution genomic patterns of DNA damage contain useful information that can contribute significantly to both practical applications and basic science.
“I don't want to be the squeaky wheel”: Addressing bias as a leader in emergency medicine
Authors: Suri Ambuj , Yang David , Sun Wendy W. , Fofana Mariame , Binstadt Emily S. , Weygandt Paul Logan , Moll Joel L. , Strout Tania D. , Gipson Katrina , Norman Marquita S. , Tsuchida Ryan E. , Alvarez Al'ai , Balhara Kamna S.
Published: February 2024

Background

Implicit bias poses a barrier to inclusivity in the health care workforce and is detrimental to patient care. While previous studies have investigated knowledge and training gaps related to implicit bias, emergency medicine (EM) leaders’ self‐awareness and perspectives on bias have not been studied. Using art to prompt reflections on implicit bias, this qualitative study explores (1) the attitudes of leaders in EM toward implicit bias and (2) individual or structural barriers to navigating and addressing bias in the workplace.

Methods

Investigators facilitated an hour‐long workshop in May 2022 for those with leadership positions in the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM), a leading national EM organization, including 62 attending physicians, eight residents/fellows, and four medical students. The workshop utilized arts‐based methods to generate a psychologically supportive space to lead conversations around implicit bias in EM. The session included time for individual reflection, where participants used an electronic platform to respond anonymously to questions regarding susceptibility, fears, barriers, and experiences surrounding bias. Two independent coders compiled, coded, and reviewed the responses using an exploratory constructivist approach.

Results

A total of 125 responses were analyzed. Four major themes emerged: (1) acceptance that bias exists; (2) individual barriers, including fear of negative reactions, often due to power dynamics between respondents and other members of the ED; (3) institutional barriers, such as insufficient funding and unprotected time committed to addressing bias; and (4) ambiguity about defining and prioritizing bias.

Conclusions

This qualitative analysis of reflections from an arts‐based workshop highlights perceived fears and barriers that may impact EM physicians’ motivation and comfort in addressing bias. These results may help guide interventions to address individual and structural barriers to mitigating bias in the workplace.
Colorectal cancer treatment outcomes during the pandemic: Our experience of COVID‐19 at a tertiary referral center
Authors: Kei Christy , Gartrell Richard , Arafat Yasser , Degabriele Elizabeth , Yeung Josephine , Chan Steven , Faragher Ian , Yeung Justin M. C.
Published: February 2024

Backgrounds

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) has led to major shifts in the management of colorectal cancer (CRC). This study aims to identify the impact and early outcomes of COVID‐19 following CRC management at a tertiary referral center in Victoria, Australia.

Methods

This was a retrospective study, utilizing the Australian Comprehensive Cancer Outcomes and Research Database and inpatient records. Patients presenting for CRC management at our institution were identified coinciding with the first Victorian outbreak of COVID‐19 (March 26 to September 26, 2020) (COVID). Management decisions including chemoradiotherapy utilization and surgical outcomes were analyzed within 6 months and compared with the corresponding period in 2019 (pre‐COVID).

Results

A total of 276 patients were included in this study (147 pre‐COVID period, 129 COVID period). During the COVID period, more patients (47.6% vs. 60.5%; p = 0.033) presented symptomatically and less for surveillance (10.9% vs. 2.3%; p < 0.01). Eighty‐four pre‐COVID and 69 COVID period patients proceeded to surgery. The average time from diagnosis date to surgery was 15.6 days less during the COVID period. There were no significant differences in postoperative utilization of higher care (p = 0.74), complications (p = 0.93), median hospital length of stay (p = 0.67), 30‐day readmission (p = 0.50), or 30‐day reoperation (p = 0.74). In 1.6% of cases, pandemic impacts resulted in a change in management.

Conclusion

Presentation of patients with CRC varied, with a significant increase in symptomatic presentations and decreased numbers for surveillance. Through flexibility and change in practice, our institution helped improve access to surgical intervention and oncological therapies. Further prospective work is required to identify long‐term outcomes and characterize the effects of ongoing disruptions.
Uptake of intra‐muscular vitamin K administration after birth: A national cohort study
Authors: Brunton Susanne , Fenton Lynda , Hardelid Pia , Williams Thomas C.
Published: February 2024

Aim

A long‐acting monoclonal antibody against RSV (nirsevimab), given as an injection shortly after birth, is currently being rolled out globally. Carer acceptance of intra‐muscular (IM) vitamin K, another injection given shortly after birth, could serve to indicate the acceptability of nirsevimab.

Methods

We analysed a national dataset of postnatal health visitor visits in Scotland; individual‐level data on gestation were not available. The primary outcome measure was the modality of administration of vitamin K; potential explanatory variables were maternal age, infant ethnicity, English as a first language, and measures of socio‐economic deprivation. We examined associations between IM vitamin K administration or oral/no vitamin K and each explanatory variable.

Results

From 2019 to 2021, questionnaires were available for 142 857 infants; data was missing for 2.7%. IM Vitamin K uptake was high: 95.5% of carers consented, with 1.1% requesting oral vitamin K and 0.9% refusing vitamin K altogether. Infant ethnicity, use of English as a first language, socio‐economic status and maternal age were not associated with reduced uptake of IM vitamin K.

Conclusion

If IM Vitamin K administration is a valid proxy measure for nirsevimab acceptance, we did not identify groups that might require increased engagement prior to nirsevimab roll‐out.
The role of maintenance therapy following autologous stem cell transplantation in newly diagnosed multiple myeloma: Considerations on behalf of the Chronic Malignancies Working Party of the EBMT
Authors: Hwang Angela , Hayden Patrick , Pawlyn Charlotte , McLornan Donal , Garderet Laurent
Published: February 2024

Recent treatment advancements in multiple myeloma have led to significant improvements in patient outcomes. Maintenance therapy following autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (AHCT) is now standard of care and has been demonstrated to prolong and deepen treatment responses. Currently, lenalidomide remains the single agent that has been approved for maintenance post‐AHCT in Europe and the USA which, if tolerated, is continued until disease progression. The treatment landscape is rapidly expanding however, and the optimal personalised maintenance approach for a patient is becoming more complex. Treatment outcomes for patients with high‐risk disease remain poor and choice of maintenance in this population also remains unclear. This review article evaluates up‐to‐date literature regarding established maintenance approaches. It further analyses ongoing studies exploring maintenance regimens using combination and novel agents, approaches to maintenance in patients with cytogenetic high‐risk disease and minimal residual disease response‐adapted strategies that reflect the current evolving treatment paradigm.
TMEM97 knockdown inhibits 5‐fluorouracil resistance by regulating epithelial‐mesenchymal transition and ABC transporter expression via inactivating the Akt/mTOR pathway in 5‐fluorouracil‐resistant colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Xu Yi , Tang Yan , Xu Qiu , He Wenguang
Published: February 2024

Resistance to 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU) is still a primary setback to the success of colorectal cancer (CRC) chemotherapy. Transmembrane protein 97 (TMEM97) functions as an oncogene in CRC. However, the role and mechanism of TMEM97 in regulating 5‐FU resistance in CRC cells remains unclear. TMEM97 expression in CRC samples was analyzed by GEPIA and human protein atlas (HPA) databases. TMEM97, E‐cadherin, Vimentin, N‐cadherin, P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp), multidrug resistance‐associated protein 1 (MRP1)/ABCC1, ABCC2, and the changes of protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway were explored by western blot analysis. IC50 value for 5‐FU and cell viability was examined by MTT assay. Apoptosis was evaluated by flow cytometry. TMEM97 was highly expressed in colon adenocarcinoma (COAD) and rectum adenocarcinoma (READ) based on GEPIA and HPA databases. TMEM97 knockdown attenuated 5‐FU resistance in HCT116/R and SW480/R cells, as evidenced by the reduced IC50 value for 5‐FU and the increased apoptosis. TMEM97 knockdown suppressed epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), expression of ATP‐binding cassette (ABC) transporters, and the Akt/mTOR pathway. Mechanistically, activation of Akt/mTOR pathway abolished the inhibitory effects of TMEM97 knockdown on 5‐FU resistance, EMT, and ABC transporter expression. In conclusion, TMEM97 knockdown inhibited 5‐FU resistance in CRC by regulating EMT and ABC transporter expression via inactivating the Akt/mTOR pathway.
The Geopolitical Economy of International Inequality
Authors: Freeman Alan
Published: February 2024

This article shows that economic inequality between nations has systematically worsened in monetary terms since 1950, and that the principal explanator is inequality between blocs of nations, notably the persistent gap between the Global North and Global South. By 2022, the GDP per capita of the North was 12 times greater than that of the South, this ratio being twice as great as in 1950. This general trend has two consistent exceptions, China and Vietnam. There was also a brief reversal of the trend from 2000 to 2012. However, except for China and Vietnam, it has resumed since then. The article shows that both the Global South and North are coherent entities: they are historically stable and converge internally while diverging from each other. It assesses the implications for international inequality and convergence research and draws out some consequences for world geopolitical relations. Finally, the article sets out the case for an international classification standard that facilitates systematic research into inter‐bloc inequality.
Diagnostic work‐up in malformations of cortical development
Authors: Rijckmans Ellen , Stouffs Katrien , Jansen Anna C.
Published: February 2024

Malformations of cortical development (MCDs) represent a heterogeneous spectrum of disorders characterized by atypical development of the cerebral cortex. MCDs are most often diagnosed on the basis of imaging, although subtle lesions, such as focal cortical dysplasia, may only be revealed on neuropathology. Different subtypes have been defined, including lissencephaly, heterotopia, cobblestone malformation, polymicrogyria, and dysgyria. Many MCDs are of genetic origin, although acquired factors, such as congenital cytomegalovirus infections and twinning sequence, can lead to similar phenotypes. In this narrative review, we provide an overview of the diagnostic approach to MCDs, which is illustrated with clinical vignettes, on diagnostic pitfalls such as somatic mosaicism and consanguinity, and recognizable phenotypes on imaging, such as tubulinopathies, the lissencephaly spectrum, tuberous sclerosis complex, and FLNA‐related periventricular nodular heterotopia.