bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sentinel lymph node-related lncRNA typing affects breast cancer prognosis and treatment response through the immune cell microenvironment
Authors: Song Bo , An Aihu , Gao Bo
Published: February 2025

The sentinel lymph node (SLN) plays a crucial role in the early treatment of breast cancer. The present study aims to investigate the impact of SLN-associated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) on breast cancer and the influence of molecular subtyping based on related genes on prognosis. To identify SLN-associated lncRNAs, we conducted differential expression analysis using 2 high-throughput sequencing techniques. In addition, ConsensusClusterPlus was employed to establish lncRNA molecular subtypes. Subsequently, comprehensive analysis using LASSO regression was performed to construct an optimal model for predicting breast cancer prognosis. Finally, various functional annotation databases were utilized to elucidate the potential functions of the predictive model. Through differential expression analysis, we identified 14 SLN-associated lncRNAs. These genes primarily influence TNF signaling pathways. Furthermore, we found that lncRNA H19 is a prominent regulatory factor among these 14 gene expressions. By utilizing ConsensusClusterPlus, we successfully stratified the IR samples into 2 distinct subtypes. Through LASSO regression, we established a prognosis model predominantly impacting various immune cells and drug resistance. After verifying 10 pairs of organizations through PCR, we found differences in 6 lncRNAs between the 2 groups of SNLs. At the same time, in the subsequent analysis of immune infiltration and drug targets, it was found that TRPC2 plays a very critical role in breast cancer. Our study highlights the significance of SLN-associated lncRNAs, unveiling the intricate mechanisms underlying the progression of breast cancer. These findings provide novel insights and potential targets for future therapeutic interventions.
Factors influencing childbirth self-efficacy and vaginal delivery rates in Chongqing: An observational study
Authors: Xing Ding-Xiang , Li Fei-Fei , Li Jun-Nan , Chen Jia , Yang Xiao-Chang
Published: February 2025

This study aims to investigate the current status of childbirth self-efficacy among pregnant women in Chongqing Municipality, analyze the factors affecting childbirth self-efficacy, and provide relevant measures and evidence to improve childbirth self-efficacy and increase the rate of natural vaginal deliveries among pregnant women. This observational study employed a questionnaire survey method, involving 1142 pregnant women who underwent prenatal examinations at 6 hospitals in Chongqing in February 2023. Participants accessed the “Wen-Juan-Xing” app by scanning a QR code to fill out the questionnaire. Of the 1142 questionnaires distributed, 1086 were returned as valid, yielding a valid rate of 95.10%. The mean score on the Chinese Childbirth Self-Efficacy Inventory was 241.86 ± 60.25, while the mean score on the Perceived Social Support Scale among pregnant women was 67.05 ± 11.84. Planning for vaginal delivery and engaging in recommended prenatal exercises were identified as positive influencing factors for childbirth self-efficacy. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between childbirth self-efficacy and social support among pregnant women (P < .05). Engaging in recommending prenatal exercise and increasing social support among pregnant women can enhance their childbirth self-efficacy and promote a higher rate of natural vaginal childbirth.
The efficacy of second-line chemotherapy in the management of classic and iatrogenic Kaposi sarcoma: An analysis of real-world data
Authors: Khanmammadov Nijat , Ferhatoglu Ferhat , Paksoy Nail , Dogan İzzet , Khishigsuren Bayarmaa , Nizam Nihan , Saip Pinar , Aydiner Adnan
Published: February 2025

Kaposi sarcoma (KS) is a rare angioproliferative malignancy linked to human herpesvirus 8 infection. While systemic therapy is often unnecessary for classic and iatrogenic KS, advanced cases may require chemotherapy. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy and safety of weekly paclitaxel or oral etoposide as second-line treatments for classical and iatrogenic Kaposi sarcoma. We retrospectively analyzed clinicopathological characteristics and treatment outcomes of 32 patients diagnosed with classical and iatrogenic KS at a tertiary cancer center between December 2000 and November 2022. Patients received oral etoposide (50 mg every 3 weeks for 10 days) or weekly paclitaxel (80 mg/m²). The cohort comprised 23 males (71.9%) and 9 females (28.1%), with a mean age of 63 years. Most patients (87.5%) had classical KS, while 12.5% had iatrogenic KS. The objective response rate (ORR) was 75%, with a disease control rate (DCR) of 87.5%. Median progression-free survival (PFS) was 32.1 months, and median overall survival (OS) was 110.2 months. No significant differences in PFS (P = .633) and OS (P = .456) were observed between paclitaxel and etoposide treatments. The treatment regimen was generally well tolerated. Severe hematological toxicities were less frequent, with febrile neutropenia in 1 patient (3.1%), while severe non-hematological side effects included neuropathy in 2 patients (6.2%). Two patients (6.2%) were hospitalized due to complications, with no treatment-related deaths. Weekly paclitaxel and oral etoposide regimens are effective and well-tolerated second-line treatments for classical and iatrogenic Kaposi sarcoma. Given the high ORR and DCR, these therapies represent viable options for patients who progress after initial treatment. Further studies with larger patient populations are needed to confirm these findings.
Construction and validation of a prediction nomogram model for acute gastrointestinal failure in patients with severe traumatic brain injury
Authors: Mao Yadi , Li Fei , Shen Lidi , Huang Chunmin
Published: February 2025

This study aims to establish and validate the prediction model of acute gastrointestinal failure (AGF) in patients with severe traumatic brain injury. A total of 665 inpatients from Shaoxing People’s Hospital from January 2018 to January 2024 were admitted and randomly divided into training group (466 cases) and validation group (199 cases). Data were collected by general situation questionnaire and AGF assessment tool. According to the results of multivariate logistic regression analysis, the prediction nomogram model was established with R software. Bootstrap method was used for internal verification of the model, and verification group was used for external verification. The area under receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve, Hosmer–Lemeshow test and calibration curves were used to evaluate the differentiation and calibration degree of the model. Multivariate Logistic regression analysis showed that pulmonary infection, hypoxemia, glasgow coma scale (GCS) score ≤ 8 on admission, hyponatremia and metabolic acidosis were independent risk factors for AGF in patients with severe traumatic brain injury (P < .05). On this basis, a new prediction model was constructed, as follows: logit P = −4.998 + 0.858 × pulmonary infection + 0.923 × hypoxemia + 1.488 × GCS score ≤ 8 + 1.274 × hyponatremia + 1.020 × metabolic acidosis. The area under ROC of the new model was 0.787 (95% CI: 0.831–0.909), and the cutoff point was 0.4589. The sensitivity and specificity of the model were 69.74% and 76.15%, respectively. Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness of fit test showed that the prediction model had a good fitting effect (χ
2 = 4.828, P = .681). External verification showed that the Hosmer–Lemeshow goodness of fit test showed that the prediction model had a good fitting effect (χ
2 = 12.712, P = .122). Calibration curves showed the nomogram established fits well with the real data. The prediction model constructed in this study has good differentiation and calibration degree, which can intuitively and easily select high-risk patients, and provide reference for early screening and gastrointestinal nursing intervention.
Arthroscopic-assisted versus fluoroscopic-assisted open reduction and internal fixation for distal radius fracture: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Keyi , Yang Shun , Cheng Yabo , Xiang Wang
Published: February 2025

Background:

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend in the use of wrist arthroscopy to facilitate the treatment of distal radius fractures using open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF). However, there is no consensus on its superiority despite some previous studies comparing these 2 surgical techniques. Hence, this study sought to conduct a systematic comparison of the effectiveness and safety of arthroscopic-assisted open reduction and internal fixation (AAORIF) and fluoroscopic-assisted open reduction and internal fixation (FAORIF) in the management of distal radius fractures.

Methods:

A comprehensive search was conducted in multiple databases to acquire all literature published until January 31st, 2024, comparing AAORIF versus FAORIF for the treatment of distal radius fracture, without any language or publication status restrictions. The Cochrane Collaboration’s RevMan 5.4 software was used to perform a meta-analysis.

Results:

Five randomized controlled trials (169 patients in the AAORIF group and 171 patients in the FAORIF group) suggested that patients with distal radius fracture treated with AAORIF had better disability of arm, shoulder, and hand scores, visual analog scale score, and wrist extension than those treated with FAORIF. However, no significant differences were observed in terms of wrist flexion, pronation, supination, operative time, and complication outcomes between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Despite the lack of significant differences in wrist flexion, pronation, supination, operative time, and complication outcomes between the 2 groups, the AAORIF group had more obvious advantages in terms of disability of arm, shoulder, and hand scores, visual analog scale score, and wrist extension based on the above results. We believe that treatment of distal radius fracture with AAORIF may be an optimal option compared with FAORIF. Absolutely, and additional high-quality studies with larger sample sizes are necessary to establish stronger evidence regarding this subject.
Patients’ experience and satisfaction towards virtual health care during the COVID-19 pandemic in southern region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Garni Abdulaziz M. , Shati Ayed A. , Alamri Hasan S. , Mahmood Syed E. , Alsamghan Awad S.
Published: February 2025

Health care providers can use these virtual platforms for delivering medical advice and prescriptions to patients. This study was aimed to explore the patients’ experiences and level of satisfaction regarding virtual health care received during the coronavirus disease-19 (COVID-19) pandemic. This study also assessed the before and during lockdown sleep quality in these participants. The current study included 522 participants from Saudi Arabia. Virtual health care satisfaction questionnaire was implemented to record the data on patient experience toward the virtual health care during COVID-19 pandemic. Patients expressed a high level of satisfaction with virtual health care services during the COVID-19 pandemic, as indicated by a mean score of 4.15 on a five-point Likert scale, which translates to an 83% satisfaction rate. Most participants felt they could communicate effectively with their doctors, appreciated the good picture and sound quality of their virtual appointments, and felt that their privacy was respected. Additionally, they reported comfort during history taking and examinations, and felt that doctors adequately explained solutions, including prescriptions and advice. Interestingly, the study found no significant association between the type of specialty or patient demographic factors and the level of satisfaction. In terms of sleep quality, a comparison of subjective sleep parameters before and during the lockdown revealed significant changes. The results from a t test indicated that mean scores for various sleep components: such as sleep duration, sleep disturbances, sleep latency, daytime dysfunction, habitual sleep efficiency, and subjective sleep quality, showed significant differences (P < .001) between the 2 assessment periods. Overall, the mean scores for these components increased, indicating a deterioration in sleep quality during the lockdown period. The study found that most participants were satisfied with the virtual health care system, noting its benefits in reducing overcrowding, care delays, and unnecessary in-person visits during pandemics. This increased accessibility could enhance patient satisfaction and lower costs, though it may not completely replace traditional hospital visits. The researchers recommend further studies with a larger, more diverse group to better understand patient experiences and improve telehealth services in Saudi Arabia. Overall, while the virtual system shows promise, more research is needed to optimize its use.
Clinical and genetic analysis of a female child with duplications at 7p22.3p22.1 and Xp22.31p21.1: A case report
Authors: Bu Chenchen , Zha Xi Quzhen , Deng Ying
Published: February 2025

Rationale:

Intellectual disability (ID) is a neurodevelopmental disorder with diverse etiologies. Chromosomal duplications are recognized as a common cause of ID, with manifestations typically milder than those associated with deletions. Duplications involving the short arm of chromosome 7 or the X chromosome have been linked to ID. Limited data exist on duplications at 7p22.1p22.3 and Xp22.31p21.1, leaving their clinical significance largely unexplored. This case report aims to expand the phenotype and genetics spectrum of 7p22 duplication syndrome and X-linked ID. Special attention should be paid to closely monitoring the pubertal progression of such patients.

Patient concerns:

A 9-year-10-month-old female was admitted to our hospital due to distinctive dysmorphic features and ID.

Diagnoses:

Upon examination, features of craniofacial dysmorphism were observed, including micrognathia, a prominent lower lip, a thin upper lip, a flat nasal bridge, and hypertelorism. The child’s pubertal development is progressing extremely rapidly; at under 10 years old, the breasts have already advanced to Tanner Stage 4. Her height was within the median range, but her bone age was advanced (12.1 years). Her full-scale intelligence quotient, assessed using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children: 4th edition, was 41.

Interventions:

Whole exome sequencing identified a de novo duplication spanning overlapping regions at Xp21-22 and 7p22. This duplication encompasses several genes implicated in ID, including Duchenne muscular dystrophy, Aristaless-related homeobox, interleukin-1 receptor accessory protein like 1, adaptor-related protein complex 1 subunit sigma 2, and cyclin-dependent kinase-like 5.

Outcomes:

A novel duplication in the Xp and 7p of a Chinese female child diagnosed with ID and dysmorphic features has been studied by whole exome sequencing analysis. The novel duplications were a large duplication located in the 7p22.1 to p22.3 region, spanning 12.07 Mb, and a large duplication located in the Xp22.31 to p21.1 region, spanning 24.7 Mb.

Lessons:

Our study underscores the importance of comprehensive clinical and genetic evaluation in individuals with duplication on the X chromosome and the terminal region of chromosome 7’s short arm. We highlight the need for monitoring these patients for growth and sexual development issues. Our findings also suggest that chromosomal duplication can lead to severe clinical manifestations, emphasizing the critical role of genetic assessment in managing such cases.
Metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease indicates more hepatic fibrosis than nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Hong Shan , Hong Zifan , Hao Yiwei , Sun Lei , Wei Hongshan
Published: February 2025

The term metabolic dysfunction–associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has been proposed based on a redefinition of the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) criteria. Our study aimed to address the knowledge gap by comparing the diagnostic accuracy of MAFLD and NAFLD criteria in identifying significant fibrosis among patients with hepatic steatosis. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 2626 patients with hepatic steatosis treated at Beijing Ditan Hospital between January 2009 and December 2022. Patients with viral hepatitis were excluded. Significant fibrosis was defined as a Meta-analysis of Histological Data in Viral Hepatitis (METAVIR) score F ≥ 2. MAFLD and NAFLD were diagnosed in 478 and 428 patients, respectively. Clinicopathological characteristics were compared between the MAFLD+ NAFLD– group (patients who met the criteria for MAFLD but not NAFLD) and MAFLD– NAFLD+ group (patients who met the criteria for NAFLD but not MAFLD). A total of 743 patients with histologically verified hepatic steatosis were analyzed. The MAFLD+ NAFLD– group comprised 163 (21.9%) and the MAFLD– NAFLD+ group comprised 113 (15.2%) patients. Patients in the MAFLD+ NAFLD– group were older and more likely to be male and had higher body mass index and liver stiffness levels than those in the MAFLD– NAFLD+ group. The prevalence of significant fibrosis was higher in the MAFLD+ NAFLD– group than in the MAFLD– NAFLD+ group (43.6% vs 15.9%, P < .001). The MAFLD criteria may be a better indicator of fibrosis than the NAFLD criteria. Fibrosis in patients with MAFLD can be determined by metabolic disorders, not excessive alcohol consumption.
ICSI/IVF treatments allocation using CASAs compared to manual semen analyses
Authors: Xu Murong , Zhao Mingpeng , Yang Huixia , Liu Minqi , Chan Carol Pui Shan , Fung Ka Kei , Chung Jacqueline Pui Wah , Fok Ellis Kin Lam , Chan David Yiu Leung
Published: February 2025

The manual method of semen analysis is vital in andrology laboratories. To solve the labor-intensive, time-consuming, and subjective problem, computer-assisted sperm analysis (CASA) systems have been developed. However, it is unclear whether the consistency of semen analysis results especially in male infertility diagnoses can be achieved. A total of 326 individuals were recruited from January 14, 2020, to October 22, 2020. The manual method was used as the gold standard. Pairwise comparisons were conducted between CASAs (Hamilton-Thorne CEROS II Clinical, LensHooke X1 Pro, and SQA-V Gold Sperm Quality Analyzer) and manual method. LensHooke had the best performance in concentration, while the others showed moderate performances (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]: CEROS-0.723, LensHooke-0.842, SQA-V-0.631). CEROS II had moderate performances in motility, and the others only had poor agreements (ICC: CEROS-0.634, LensHooke-0.417, SQA-V-0.451). Morphology analyses were not consistent with manual results (ICC: LensHooke-0.160, SQA-V-0.261). In Bland–Altman plots, CEROS II (P = .379) and SQA-V Gold (P = .218) showed consistent measurements in concentrations and total sperm count with the manual method, while the others were inconsistent. LensHooke X1 Pro (κ=0.701) and CEROS II (κ = 0.664) showed substantial performances in oligozoospermia, and SQA-V Gold had moderate agreements (κ = 0.588). In asthenozoospermia, LensHooke X1 Pro had moderate performances (κ = 0.405) and CEROS II had fair agreement (κ = 0.249), while low agreement using SQA-V Gold (κ = 0.157). In teratozoospermia, LensHooke X1 Pro (κ = 0.177) and SQA-V Gold (κ = 0.008) could not have consistent results either. When choosing treatment based on morphology, the ratio of intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI) approximates 0.5 in our unit. However, the ratios were around 0.31 and 0.15 using LensHooke X1 Pro and SQA-V Gold, indicating the reduction of ICSI work in routine treatment. CASA results were not consistent with manual results, and the deviations might result in skewed in vitro fertilization/ICSI allocation in subsequent treatment. Interestingly, tested CASA systems tend to skew to conventional in vitro fertilization instead of ICSI. Although CASA technologies have been improving recently, the manual method cannot be replaced by the tested CASA systems at present and the results should be treated with caution. CASA algorithms should be improved, especially in morphology. Future strict studies should be designed to evaluate the CASA systems with both internal and external validations.
Cellular Proliferation Imaging With 18F-FMAU PET/CT as Adjunct to mpMRI in Image-Guided Biopsy of Suspected Prostate Cancer
Authors: Jadvar Hossein , Chen Kai , Mohamed Passant , Jadvar Donya S. , Abreu Andre Luis
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

We evaluated the potential diagnostic utility of PET with the cellular proliferation biomarker, 2′-deoxyl-2′-[18F]fluoro-5-methyl-1-beta-D-arabinofuranosyluracil (18F-FMAU), as an adjunct to multiparametric MRI (mpMRI), in localization of sites for image-guided biopsy in men with suspected prostate cancer.

Patients and Materials:

Seventeen men with clinically suspected prostate cancer underwent standard mpMRI and investigational PET/CT with 18F-FMAU.

Results:

Tissue samples obtained from 22 image-guided biopsies were examined histologically. There were 11 benign, 6 ISUP grade 1, and 5 ISUP grade 2 tumors. The sensitivity for detection of ISUP 1 and ISUP 2 prostate cancer was 16.7% and 100% for mpMRI, and 50% and 60% for 18F-FMAU PET/CT, respectively.

Conclusions:

18F-FMAU PET/CT may be a useful adjunct to mpMRI in image-guided prostate biopsy.
Nucleosome-binding by TP53, TP63, and TP73 is determined by the composition, accessibility, and helical orientation of their binding sites
Authors: Wilson Patrick , Yu Xinyang , Handelmann Christopher R , Buck Michael J
Published: February 2025

The TP53 family of transcription factors plays key roles in driving development and combating cancer by regulating gene expression. TP53, TP63, and TP73 - the three members of the TP53 family - regulate gene expression by binding to their DNA binding sites, many of which are situated within nucleosomes. To thoroughly examine the nucleosome-binding abilities of the TP53 family, we used Pioneer-seq, a technique that assesses a transcription factor's binding affinity to its DNA binding sites at all possible positions within the nucleosome core particle. Using Pioneer-seq, we analyzed the binding affinity of TP53, TP63, and TP73 to 10 TP53-family binding sites across the nucleosome core particle. We found that the affinity of TP53, TP63, and TP73 for nucleosomes was primarily determined by the positioning of TP53-family binding sites within nucleosomes; TP53-family members bind strongly to the more accessible edges of nucleosomes but weakly to the less accessible centers of nucleosomes. Our results further show that the DNA-helical orientation of TP53-family binding sites within nucleosomal DNA impacts the nucleosome-binding affinity of TP53-family members, with binding site composition impacting each TP53-family member's affinity only when the binding site location was accessible. Taken together, our results show that the accessibility, composition, and helical orientation of TP53-family binding sites collectively determine the nucleosome-binding affinities of TP53, TP63, and TP73. These findings help explain the rules underlying TP53-family-nucleosome binding and thus provide requisite insight into how we may better control gene-expression changes involved in development and tumor suppression.
Magnetic properties of the zigzag ladder compound
SrTb2O4
Authors: Orlandi F. , Ciomaga Hatnean M. , Mayoh D. A. , Tidey J. P. , Riberolles S. X. M. , Balakrishnan G. , Manuel P. , Khalyavin D. D. , Walker H. C. , Le M. D. , Ouladdiaf B. , Wildes A. R. , Qureshi N. , Petrenko O. A.
Published: February 2025

We report on the properties of SrTb2O4, a frustrated zigzag ladder antiferromagnet, studied by single crystal neutron diffraction (with polarized neutrons in zero field and unpolarized neutrons in an applied magnetic field), as well as by neutron spectroscopy on a polycrystalline sample. The neutron scattering results are supported by single-crystal magnetization and heat capacity measurements. In zero field, neutron diffraction data show no transition to a magnetically ordered state down to the lowest experimentally available temperature of 35 mK, and the material remains magnetically disordered down to this temperature. Polarized neutron diffraction measurements reveal the presence of a diffuse scattering signal suggesting only very weak spin-spin correlations in the ground state. For H∥c (the easy magnetization direction), we followed the magnetization process using neutron diffraction measurements and observed the appearance of field-induced magnetic Bragg peaks with integer h and k indices in the (hk0) scattering plane. No magnetic peaks with a nonzero propagation vector were detected. The observed in-field data fit well to a simple two-sublattice model with magnetic moments aligned along the field direction but being significantly different in magnitude for the two inequivalent Tb3+ sites in the unit cell. Overall, the collected data point to a nonmagnetic ground state in SrTb2O4 despite the presence of strong interactions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Constraints on
f(R)
gravity from thermal-Sunyaev-Zel’dovich-effect-selected SPT galaxy clusters and weak lensing mass calibration from DES and HST
Authors: Vogt S. M. L. , Bocquet S. , Davies C. T. , Mohr J. J. , Schmidt F. , Ruan C.-Z. , Li B. , Hernández-Aguayo C. , Grandis S. , Bleem L. E. , Klein M. , Schrabback T. , Aguena M. , Brooks D. , Burke D. L. , Campos A. , Carnero Rosell A. , Carretero J. , Costanzi M. , da Costa L. N. , Pereira M. E. S. , De Vicente J. , Doel P. , Everett S. , Ferrero I. , Frieman J. , García-Bellido J. , Gatti M. , Giannini G. , Gruen D. , Gruendl R. A. , Hinton S. R. , Hollowood D. L. , Lee S. , Lima M. , Marshall J. L. , Mena-Fernández J. , Miquel R. , Myles J. , Paterno M. , Pieres A. , Plazas Malagón A. A. , Reichardt C. L. , Romer A. K. , Samuroff S. , Sarkar A. , Sanchez E. , Sevilla-Noarbe I. , Smith M. , Suchyta E. , Swanson M. E. C. , Tarle G. , Vikram V. , Weaverdyck N. , Weller J. ,   SPT and DES Collaborations
Published: February 2025

We present constraints on the f(R) gravity model using a sample of 1005 galaxy clusters in the redshift range 0.25–1.78 that have been selected through the thermal Sunyaev-Zel’dovich effect from South Pole Telescope data and subjected to optical and near-infrared confirmation with the multicomponent matched filter algorithm. We employ weak gravitational lensing mass calibration from the Dark Energy Survey Year 3 data for 688 clusters at z<0.95 and from the Hubble Space Telescope for 39 clusters with 0.6<z<1.7. Our cluster sample is a powerful probe of f(R) gravity, because this model predicts a scale-dependent enhancement in the growth of structure, which impacts the halo mass function (HMF) at cluster mass scales. To account for these modified gravity effects on the HMF, our analysis employs a semianalytical approach calibrated with numerical simulations. Combining calibrated cluster counts with primary cosmic microwave background temperature and polarization anisotropy measurements from the Planck 2018 release, we derive robust constraints on the f(R) parameter fR0. Our results, log10|fR0|<−5.32 at the 95% credible level, are the tightest current constraints on f(R) gravity from cosmological scales. This upper limit rules out f(R)-like deviations from general relativity that result in more than a ∼20% enhancement of the cluster population on mass scales M200c>3×1014M⊙.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Dark dimension and the grand unification of forces
Authors: Heckman Jonathan J. , Vafa Cumrun , Weigand Timo , Xu Fengjun
Published: February 2025

The dark dimension scenario, predicting one extra mesoscopic dimension in the micron range, has emerged by applying various swampland principles to the dark energy. In this note we find that realizing the grand unification of gauge forces is highly constraining in this context. Without actually constructing any grand unified theory (GUT) models, we argue that the mere assumption of grand unification of forces in this scenario, together with the experimental bounds on massive replicas of the Standard Model gauge bosons, predicts an upper bound for the GUT scale, MGUT≲1016  GeV. Combined with the experimental bound on the proton lifetime, this predicts that the X gauge boson mediating proton decay is a 5D solitonic string of Planckian tension stretched across a length scale L∼(1–10  TeV)−1 ending on gauge branes of the same diameter ∼L. This leads to a mass of MX∼1015–1016  GeV. In particular assuming grand unification in the dark dimension scenario results in a tower of Kaluza-Klein excitations of Standard Model gauge bosons on the gauge branes in the 1–10 TeV range. This suggests that the diameter/separation L of the gauge branes correlates with both the weak scale ∼1/L near a TeV the GUT scale ∼M52L at 1016  GeV.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Geometric quantum machine learning with horizontal quantum gates
Authors: Wiersema Roeland , Kemper Alexander F. , Bakalov Bojko N. , Killoran Nathan
Published: February 2025

In the current framework of geometric quantum machine learning, the canonical method for constructing a variational ansatz that respects the symmetry of some group action is by forcing the circuit to be equivariant, i.e., to commute with the action of the group. This can, however, be an overzealous constraint that greatly limits the expressivity of the circuit, especially in the case of continuous symmetries. We propose an alternative paradigm for the symmetry-informed construction of variational quantum circuits, based on homogeneous spaces, relaxing the overly stringent requirement of equivariance. We achieve this by introducing horizontal quantum gates, which only transform the state with respect to the directions orthogonal to those of the symmetry. We show that horizontal quantum gates are much more expressive than equivariant gates, and thus can solve problems that equivariant circuits cannot. For instance, a circuit comprised of horizontal gates can find the ground state of an SU(2)-symmetric model where the ground state spin sector is unknown—a task where equivariant circuits fall short. Moreover, for a particular subclass of horizontal gates based on symmetric spaces, we can obtain efficient circuit decompositions for our gates through the KAK theorem. Finally, we highlight a particular class of horizontal quantum gates that behave similarly to general SU(4) gates, while achieving a quadratic reduction in the number of parameters for a generic problem.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Tracing financial inclusion pathway to sustainable development: the criticality of population growth and energy intensity using a machine learning approach
Authors: Iorember Paul Terhemba , Hounkanrin Dian Oluwatobi , Diyoke Kenneth , Tang Chor Foon
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Despite the criticality of financial inclusion, population growth and energy intensity in shaping production and consumption, economic and environmental sustainability, less attention has been directed to their collective and integrating role as pathways to sustainable development. This study therefore examines the critical link between financial inclusion and sustainable development in Nigeria, taking into account the role of population growth and energy intensity.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs the Kernelized regularized least squares (KRLS) machine learning approach and Granger causality test to investigate the pathways of financial inclusion, population growth and energy intensity on sustainable development.

Findings

Financial inclusion path to sustainable development is not statistically significant. This is because the potential of financial inclusion are eclipsed by broader economic problems Population growth and energy intensity have significant dampening effects on sustainable development. These results have broad ramifications for environmental sustainability and macroeconomic strategies to Nigeria’s quest for achieving sustainable development.

Practical implications

Policies such as improvement of financial literacy and development of responsible financial behavior among the underserved populations can enhance the role of financial inclusion in sustainable development. Similarly, investment in education and human capital development, and adoption of renewable energy technologies can mitigate the effects of population growth and energy intensity.

Originality/value

The present study focuses on the pathway of financial inclusion to sustainable development, taking into account key variables of population growth and energy intensity.
The effect of psychosocial working conditions on work engagement and burnout in European communication industry
Authors: Ferreira Pedro , Gomes Sofia , Lopes João M.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Responding to the lack of research on work engagement and burnout of professionals in the communication industries, this work’s main objective is to evaluate the effect of psychosocial working conditions (meaningful work, trust and recognition) on work engagement and burnout. Additionally, the mediating role of employee voice is tested.

Design/methodology/approach

The study takes a quantitative approach. A sample of 3,386 European workers in the communication industries was taken from the 2021 European Working Conditions Survey. The measurement of the main concepts is based on the variables available in the database above. The hypotheses were tested using the partial least squares method.

Findings

The results reveal that all psychosocial working conditions (meaningful work, trust and recognition) contribute to promoting work engagement and reducing burnout. Furthermore, employee voice is a mediator of the relationship between psychosocial working conditions, work engagement and burnout, although the presence of employee voice reduces the robustness of those relationships.

Practical implications

These results present relevant practical implications for managing workers in the communication industries, namely some clues to promote positive employee outcomes through the management of psychosocial working conditions.

Originality/value

This study examines the underexplored topic of work engagement and burnout in professionals in the communication industries as well as the relevance of psychological working conditions and employee voice to those outcomes. Furthermore, this study provides insightful information that is particularly useful to the European setting, where cultural aspects and working conditions may vary greatly from those in other parts of the world.
A DCV performance in IAQ services during COVID-19: a study of the contractor in Malaysia
Authors: Ismail Zul-Atfi
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Demand-controlled ventilation (DCV) plays a significant role in human life by providing safe, reliable and cost-effective services that are environmentally friendly and enhance occupant satisfaction and building energy efficiency. Significant decisions are made at the early stages of building sector DCV systems, requiring effective tools to avoid measurement errors and failures in Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) generation. The continuous upgrading of this sector is necessary to respond to technological advances, environmental changes and increased ventilation demands. Integrating indoor air quality (IAQ) and machine learning algorithms (MLA) proves promising, as the scope of DCV typically does not extend beyond the footprint of the building; it does not encompass IAQ within a Corona Virus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection risk information. Therefore, integrating IAQ with MLA provides a comprehensive overview of the building sector’s DCV systems. However, this integration poses challenges, particularly in DCV activities, as they are among the most complex systems involving numerous processes critical for making important decisions. This study aims to identify how digitalized construction environments can integrate DCV into their processes.

Design/methodology/approach

This study reviews the literature on integrating IAQ with MLA systematically, aiming to analyze the DCV need for this integration and its benefits. It proposes a direction for a conceptual framework, simulation and causal explanation of the problems using the bootstrapping technique and Cronbach’s alpha factor analysis to establish the requirement for facilitating specific ventilation control processes to be incorporated into the system approaches in managing infection prevention and energy efficiency in the building sector’s DCV system.

Findings

This study proposes a conceptual framework for analyzing IAQ within a COVID-19 context and MLA embedded in systems that may impact DCV practices. The conceptual framework comprises six key constructs: virus detection, occupant ventilation behavior, DCV energy consumption, diagnostic evaluation, temperature perception cluster and indoor environmental quality. The conceptual framework underscores the importance of early integration of DCV in the design phase to identify alternative methods to cogenerate, monitor and optimize DCV.

Originality/value

So far, this study advances the knowledge of how digitalized construction environments can ensure DCV delivery. The testing results highlight four significant relationships between the constructs of strategies and the constructs of occupant-density factors in the Malaysian dataset within the existing conceptual framework. Hence, the framework designed for developed countries or US companies can enhance IAQ ventilation strategy options in Malaysia’s G7 contractor companies. A future study can validate the framework across the design phase with different construction stakeholders.
Impact of educational diversity and specialty on inter-organizational public R&D teams
Authors: Kim Dohyoung , Jang Sojin , Kim Eungdo
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the effects of diversity and specialty on the performance of public research and development (R&D) teams and addresses a gap in research that has largely focused on diversity without adequately considering specialty. It explores the influence of educational background and level, as aspects of diversity, and specialty on team performance and innovation, particularly among leaders and members.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing panel data from the National Science and Technology Information Service and a modified rank-normalized impact factor index for innovation performance, this study differentiates between educational background and level. It examines their influence on the performance of public R&D teams by focusing on the dynamics between diversity and specialty in leader and member groups.

Findings

The study finds that diversity in educational level boosts performance in member groups, whereas “leaders” performance is more closely linked to their educational background and specialty. The results underscore the importance of managing educational diversity and specialty within leader and member groups and highlight the need to avoid a unilateral emphasis on singular necessity.

Originality/value

This study’s novelty lies in its examination of the influence of educational diversity and specialty on innovation performance within the framework of inter-organizational public R&D teams, considering the interaction between these factors among leaders and members. It offers new insights for establishing inter-organizational teams and contributes a unique perspective to the literature on innovation management.
More sustainable denim fading process of two different indigo dyed denim fabrics with laser treatment
Authors: Uysaler Tuna , Altay Pelin , Özcan Gülay
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Laser fading, commonly used in the denim industry, is a computer-controlled, dry, ecological finishing method whereas conventional methods include high water, energy and time consumption. Resolution and pixel time are crucial parameters of laser source influencing the effect of laser treatment. The purpose of this study is to determine the optimum laser parameters of CO2 laser followed by enzyme washing and to compare the tensile strength and color values of laser-treated denim fabric with that of conventional enzyme-faded.

Design/methodology/approach

Two different indigo-dyed, sulfur bottom-indigo-dyed and only indigo-dyed organic cotton denim fabrics with different unit weights, were lasetreated with different laser parameters and then subjected to 10 min enzyme washing. Tensile strength, abrasion resistance, and change in fabric unit weight were tested. CIE (L*a*b*, ΔE*, h°, C*) color values, color strength (K/S), yellowness and whiteness indexes were measured to identify the color differences. Color fastness tests including washing, rubbing, light, water and perspiration fastness were investigated.

Findings

Most effective laser fading in terms of good mechanical properties and color values was obtained at 40 dpi resolution and 300 µs pixel time.

Originality/value

Conventional enzyme fading of denim fabrics is a wet process and requires a long process time of 40–45 min and high temperatures, leading to high energy and water consumption. Laser fading, on the other hand, is a dry and ecological method, but causes a decrease in mechanical properties of the fabric, and an increase in yellowness. In this study, unlike the similar studies in the literature, denim fading was carried out by a combination of laser treatment followed by only 10 min enzyme washing in order to eliminate or minimize the drawbacks of the denim fading, such as high energy and water consumption for enzyme fading and decrease in mechanical properties of the fabric and increase in yellowness for laser fading. This method was applied to two different dyed denim fabrics, sulfur (bottom) and indigo (top) and laser process conditions were optimized to achieve the desired fading effects compared to conventional enzyme fading.
Role of blockchain in transitioning to circular economy – an empirical investigation
Authors: Pattanayak Sirsha , Ramkumar M. , Goswami Mohit , Narayanamurthy Gopalakrishnan , Rana Nripendra P.
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Anchored in the Natural Resource-Based View (NRBV) and Dynamic Capabilities theory, this study examines blockchain’s role in facilitating firms' transition to a circular economy (CE), aiming to provide a robust framework for understanding the interplay between blockchain, CE and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses an interpretivistic approach and semi-structured interviews to explore how blockchain can drive the transition to a CE.

Findings

The study shows blockchain can expedite the shift to a CE through pollution prevention, product stewardship and sustainable development, by leveraging dynamic capabilities (DC). It emphasizes blockchain as a micro foundation of DCs, with these capabilities enabling NRBV strategic capabilities.

Originality/value

This study investigates the intersection of blockchain and CE, offering empirical validation for a robust conceptual framework and revealing the societal impact of the CE transition.
Building corporate immunity: how do companies increase their resilience to negative information in the environment of fake news?
Authors: Fârte Gheorghe-Ilie , Obadă Daniel Rareș , Gherguț-Babii Alexandra-Niculina , Dabija Dan-Cristian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This research explores the impact of trust in online information, parasocial interaction, online flow experience, sharing fake news and corporate credibility on companies’ resilience to negative information.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual research model was developed, employing the flow theory to fill gaps in the literature. A cross-sectional national online survey was conducted among 1,550 respondents aged 16–74 in an emerging market, utilizing a quantitative-based approach; the data were then analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

Trust in online information and parasocial interactions was found to impact the online flow experience, with parasocial interaction positively affecting it optimally. The sharing of fake news is affected by parasocial interaction and the online flow experience, which in turn affects corporate credibility.

Originality/value

Corporate credibility is shown to be an antecedent of resilience to negative information and word-of-mouth communication in companies, the former having a direct influence on the latter. The study hence has significant theoretical and managerial implications for communication and marketing.
Perceived psychic distance and global sourcing processes in the Italian craft beer sector
Authors: Francioni Barbara , Curina Ilaria , Aiudi Alice , Viganò Elena
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the global sourcing process of Italian craft microbreweries, particularly by identifying the main antecedents leading to the perception of psychic distance. The study also examines how perceived psychic distance affects the selection of intermediaries and the intention to maintain these relationships, with a specific focus on how intermediaries bridge cultural and logistical gaps in international business.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a qualitative research methodology and adopts a multiple case study approach, focusing on seven small breweries located in central Italy. The study applies thematic analysis to identify and examine key themes and sub-themes related to global sourcing processes, perceived psychic distance and the role of intermediaries. Additionally, the adoption of network theory provides deeper insights into the relationships between breweries, suppliers and intermediaries.

Findings

Results reveal that perceived psychic distance significantly affects global sourcing decisions, with cultural differences, regulatory barriers and communication challenges emerging as critical factors. Intermediaries play a crucial role in facilitating transactions, building trust and providing logistical support. The study highlights the importance of cultural competence, effective communication strategies and trust-building in mitigating the adverse effects of psychic distance.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations are primarily related to the geographical origin of the sample, which is limited to regions in central Italy. Despite this, the study provides valuable insights for craft breweries and other small businesses engaged in international trade. Moreover, it emphasizes the critical role of intermediaries in reducing perceived distance and effectively managing global supply chains.

Originality/value

The study explores a topic largely overlooked in the literature, particularly regarding the analysis of perceived psychic distance, its antecedents and its impact on intermediary selection within the craft beer sector. Additionally, the paper offers valuable guidelines for specific categories of stakeholders (i.e. local intermediaries, foreign suppliers and Italian firms producing raw materials) and provides actionable insights for practitioners, including strategies for supplier selection, quality control and effective communication.