bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Novel Approach for Routinely Assessing Laboratory Sigma Metrics for a Broad Range of Automated Assays
Authors: Miller Johanna J , Gammie Alistair J
Published: February 2024

Background

Sigma metrics have been adapted for the clinical laboratory to incorporate observed accuracy, precision, and total error allowed. The higher the Sigma level for a process, the better performance that process has. A limitation of studies assessing Sigma metrics is that they are performed on a small number of well-controlled systems.

Methods

An algorithm was developed to extract QC data and derive the Sigma metric for 115 analytes from sites connected to the QuidelOrtho E-Connectivity® database. The median of these results was then used to derive the Sigma metric for each assay.

Results

In this analysis, 79 out of 115 (68.7%) of the assays assessed achieved 6 Sigma or better and 98 out of 115 (85.2%) achieved 5 Sigma or better.

Conclusions

This study has demonstrated a methodology that can be used to condense Sigma metrics from hundreds of analyzers into a single metric of assay quality. Because these analyzers are running in working laboratories from around the world, this analysis can serve as a baseline for understanding the assay performance achieved in the presence of variabilities such as lab-to-lab, instrument-to-instrument, material handling, environmental conditions, and reagent lot. The significant number of assays demonstrating high Sigma levels did so despite this variation. The ability of the methods reported here to include hundreds of analyzers represents a novel approach for assessing Sigma metrics in clinical laboratories.
Consistency of the inverse scattering imaging condition, the energy norm imaging condition and the impedance kernel in acoustic and elastic reverse-time migration
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Yang Jidong , Huang Jianping , Sun Jiaxing , Zhao Chong
Published: February 2024

In this work, we draw connections between the imaging conditions using the impedance kernel, the inverse scattering imaging condition, and the energy norm imaging condition in acoustic and elastic reverse-time migration (RTM). Traditional RTM often introduces large low-wavenumber artifacts that degrade image quality in intricate geological structures with large velocity variations. In practice, the Laplacian filter is commonly used to remove these low-wavenumber artifacts, but it changes the image wavenumber spectrum. The advanced imaging conditions of the inverse scattering, the energy norm, and the impedance kernel can effectively remove the low-wavenumber artifacts while not changing the wavenumber spectrum. This study aims to build a connection between these three types of imaging conditions by conducting detailed analysis in the wavenumber domain for acoustic and elastic RTMs. We find that they are exactly the same except for the varying weights of the source-receiver wavefield cross-correlation. All three imaging conditions can generate clear RTM images that are not affected by low-wavenumber artifacts. Numerical examples for a simple model, Sigsbee 2a, and BP models verify the consistency of these three imaging conditions and show their advantage over conventional simple zero-lag cross-correlation imaging conditions. This is important for improving the quality and reliability of seismic imaging technology.
Prognostic evaluation of the Ki-67 labeling system in histological grading of non-small round cell sarcoma: a supplementary analysis of a randomized controlled trial, JCOG1306
Authors: Sugita Shintaro , Tanaka Kazuhiro , Oda Yoshinao , Nojima Takayuki , Konishi Naomi , Machida Ryunosuke , Kita Ryosuke , Fukuda Haruhiko , Ozaki Toshifumi , Hasegawa Tadashi
Published: February 2024

Background

Soft tissue sarcoma (STS) has various histological types and is rare, making it difficult to evaluate the malignancy of each histological type. Thus, comprehensive histological grading is most important in the pathological examination of STS. The Fédération Nationale des Centres de Lutte Contre le Cancer (FNCLCC) grading system is most commonly used in daily pathological analysis of STS. Among the FNCLCC grading system parameters, mitotic count is a key morphological parameter reflecting the proliferative activity of tumor cells, although its reproducibility may be lacking. Here, we compared the prognostic utility of the conventional and modified FNCLCC grading systems in JCOG1306.

Methods

We analyzed 140 patients with non-small round cell sarcoma. We performed Ki-67 immunostaining using open biopsy specimens before preoperative chemotherapy in all patients. We assessed histological grade in individual cases by conventional FNCLCC grading (tumor differentiation, mitotic count, and necrosis) and modified FNCLCC grading using the Ki-67 labeling index instead of mitotic count. We conducted univariable and multivariable Cox regression analyses to investigate the influence of grade on overall survival.

Results

In univariable analysis, prognosis was worse for patients with conventional FNCLCC Grade 3 tumors compared with Grade 1 or 2 tumors (hazard ratio [HR] 4.21, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.47–12.05, P = 0.008). Moreover, prognosis was worse in patients with modified FNCLCC Grade 3 tumors compared with Grade 1 or 2 tumors (HR 4.90, 95% CI 1.64–14.65, P = 0.004). In multivariable analysis including both conventional and modified FNCLCC grading, the modified grading more strongly affected overall survival (HR 6.70, 95% CI 1.58–28.40, P = 0.010).

Conclusions

The modified FNCLCC grading system was superior to the conventional system in predicting the prognosis of patients with non-small round cell sarcoma according to this supplementary analysis of data from the randomized controlled trial JCOG1306.
Effects of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi on carbon assimilation and ecological stoichiometry of maize under combined abiotic stresses
Authors: Ran Qiong , Zhang Songlin , Arif Muhammad , Yin Xueting , Chen Shanshan , Ren Guangqian
Published: February 2024

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) enhance plant tolerance to abiotic stresses like salinity and improve crop yield. However, their effects are variable, and the underlying cause of such variation remains largely unknown. This study aimed to assess how drought modified the effect of AMF on plant resistance to high calcium-saline stress. A pot experiment was performed to examine how AMF inoculation affects the growth, photosynthetic activity, nutrient uptake and carbon (C), nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) stoichiometric ratio (C:N:P) of maize under high calcium stress and contrasting water conditions. The results showed that high calcium stress significantly reduced mycorrhizal colonization, biomass accumulation, C assimilation rate and C:N stoichiometric ratio in plant tissues. Besides, the adverse effects of calcium stress on photosynthesis were exacerbated under drought. AMF inoculation profoundly alleviated such reductions under drought and saline stress. However, it barely affected maize performance when subjected to calcium stress under well-watered conditions. Moreover, watering changed AMF impact on nutrient allocation in plant tissues. Under well-watered conditions, AMF stimulated P accumulation in roots and plant growth, but did not induce leaf P accumulation proportional to C and N, resulting in increased leaf C:P and N:P ratios under high calcium stress. In contrast, AMF decreased N content and the N:P ratio in leaves under drought. Overall, AMF inoculation improved maize resistance to calcium-salt stress through enhanced photosynthesis and modulation of nutrient stoichiometry, particularly under water deficit conditions. These results highlighted the regulatory role of AMF in carbon assimilation and nutrient homeostasis under compound stresses, and provide significant guidance on the improvement of crop yield in saline and arid regions.
Brusatol’s anticancer activity and its molecular mechanism: a research update
Authors: Xi Wenyi , Zhao Chenhui , Wu Zeyu , Ye Tongtong , Zhao Rui , Jiang Xiaochun , Ling Shizhang
Published: February 2024

Objective

Brusatol (BT) is a quassinoid compound extracted from Brucea javanica that is a traditional Chinese herbal medicine. Brusatol possesses biological and medical activity, including antitumor, antileukemia, anti-inflammatory, antitrypanosomal, antimalarial, and antitobacco mosaic virus activity. To summarize and discuss the antitumor effects of BT and its mechanisms of actions, we compiled this review by combining the extensive relevant literature and our previous studies.

Methods

We searched and retrieved the papers that reported the pharmacological effects of BT and the mechanism of BT antitumor activity from PubMed until July 2023.

Key findings

Numerous studies have shown that BT is a unique nuclear factor erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) inhibitor that acts on various signaling pathways and has good antitumor properties. Brusatol shows great potential in cancer therapy by inhibiting cell proliferation, blocking the cell cycle, promoting tumor cell differentiation, accelerating tumor cell apoptosis, inducing autophagy, suppressing angiogenesis, inhibiting tumor invasion and metastasis, and reversing multidrug resistance.

Conclusion

This review summarizes recent updates on the antitumor activity and molecular mechanisms of BT and provides references for future development and clinical translation of BT and its derivatives as antitumor drugs.
Global health inequalities of chronic kidney disease: a meta-analysis
Authors: Duff Rachael , Awofala Omodolapo , Arshad Muhammad Tahir , Lambourg Emilie , Gallacher Peter , Dhaun Neeraj , Bell Samira
Published: February 2024

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant contributor to global morbidity and mortality. This study investigated disparities in age, sex and socio-economic status in CKD and updated global prevalence estimates through systematic review and meta-analysis.

Methods

Five databases were searched from 2014 to 2022, with 14 871 articles screened, 119 papers included and data analysed on 29 159 948 participants. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted to determine overall prevalence, prevalence of stages 3–5 and prevalence in males and females. Influences of age, sex and socio-economic status were assessed in subgroup analyses and risk of bias assessment and meta-regressions were conducted to explore heterogeneity.

Results

The overall prevalence of CKD was 13.0% [95% confidence interval (CI) 11.3–14.8] and 6.6% (95% CI 5.6–7.8) for stages 3–5. The prevalence was higher in studies of older populations (19.3% for stages 1–5, 15.0% for stages 3–5) and meta-regression demonstrated an association of age, body mass index, diabetes and hypertension with prevalence of stages 3–5. The prevalence of CKD stages 1–5 was similar in males and females (13.1% versus 13.2%), but the prevalence of stages 3–5 was higher in females (6.4% versus 7.5%). Overall prevalence was 11.4%, 15.0% and 10.8% in low-, middle- and high-income countries, respectively; for stages 3–5, prevalence was 4.0%, 6.7% and 6.8%, respectively. Included studies were at moderate–high risk of bias in the majority of cases (92%) and heterogeneity was high.

Conclusion

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of CKD prevalence, highlighting important disparities related to age, sex and socio-economic status. Future research should focus on targeted screening and treatment approaches, improving access to care and more effective data monitoring, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Extracellular vesicles derived from mesenchymal stem cells: the wine in Hebe's hands to treat skin aging
Authors: Gui Qixiang , Ding Neng , Yao Zuochao , Wu Minjuan , Fu Ruifeng , Wang Yue , Zhao Yunpeng , Zhu Lie
Published: February 2024

Owing to its constant exposure to the external environment and various stimuli, skin ranks among the organs most vulnerable to manifestations of aging. Preventing and delaying skin aging has become one of the prominent research subjects in recent years. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are multipotent stem cells derived from mesoderm with high self-renewal ability and multilineage differentiation potential. MSC-derived extracellular vesicles (MSC-EVs) are nanoscale biological vesicles that facilitate intercellular communication and regulate biological behavior. Recent studies have shown that MSC-EVs have potential applications in anti-aging therapy due to their anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative stress, and wound healing promoting abilities. This review presents the latest progress of MSC-EVs in delaying skin aging. It mainly includes the MSC-EVs promoting the proliferation and migration of keratinocytes and fibroblasts, reducing the expression of matrix metalloproteinases, resisting oxidative stress, and regulating inflammation. We then briefly discuss the recently discovered treatment methods of MSC-EVs in the field of skin anti-aging. Moreover, the advantages and limitations of EV-based treatments are also presented.
TaVQ22 Interacts with TaWRKY19-2B to Negatively Regulate Wheat Resistance to Sheath Blight
Authors: Gao Zhen , Geng Xingxia , Xiang Linrun , Shao Chunyu , Geng Qiang , Wu Jun , Yang Qunhui , Liu Shuhui , Chen Xinhong
Published: February 2024

Wheat sheath blight caused by the necrotic fungal pathogen Rhizoctonia cerealis is responsible for severe damage to bread wheat. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are vital for stress resistance by plants and their homeostasis plays an important role in wheat resistance to sheath blight. Valine-glutamine (VQ) proteins play important roles in plant growth and development, and responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the functional mechanism mediated by wheat VQ protein in response to sheath blight via ROS homeostasis regulation is unclear. In this study, we identified TaVQ22 protein containing the VQ motif and clarified the functional mechanisms involved in the defense of wheat against R. cerealis. TaVQ22 silencing reduced the accumulation of ROS and enhanced the resistance of wheat to R. cerealis. In addition, we showed that TaVQ22 regulated ROS generation by interacting with the WRKY transcription factor TaWRKY19-2B, thereby indicating that TaVQ22 and TaWRKY19-2B formed complexes in the plant cell nucleus. Yeast two-hybrid analysis showed that the VQ motif in TaVQ22 is crucial for the interaction, where it inhibits the transcriptional activation function of TaWRKY19-2B. In summary, TaVQ22 interacts with TaWRKY19-2B to regulate ROS homeostasis and negatively regulate the defense response to R. cerealis infection. This study provides novel insights into the mechanism that allows VQ protein to mediate the immune response in plants.
Advances in approaches to diagnose endometriosis
Authors: Giudice Linda C.
Published: February 2024

Endometriosis is a common, underdiagnosed, systemic inflammatory, and endocrine pain disorder that impacts the quality of life of millions of persons with a uterus globally. It is associated with chronic pelvic pain and an increased risk of subfertility. It has also been associated with cardiovascular disease, depression, thyroid and autoimmune disorders, ovarian and breast cancers, and poor pregnancy outcomes. Treatment of endometriosis-related pain and infertility can be medical and/or surgical, although misdiagnosis due to symptoms that overlap with other conditions and reliance on definitive diagnosis by histologic confirmation of endometriosis at surgery have contributed to a prolonged diagnosis-to-treatment timeline. A paradigm shift in endometriosis diagnosis is underway, with greater reliance on clinical and family history, physical examination, and imaging, without surgical confirmation, and then proceeding with medical and/or surgical therapies, although any one diagnostic approach alone is insufficient. Although there are no validated, specific molecular biomarkers for endometriosis, recent candidates have promise for diagnosing the disease and facilitating symptom management. This review presents current and evolving approaches to diagnose endometriosis with the goal of expediting the diagnosis-to-treatment timeframe, so patients can have confidence in a diagnosis for their symptoms, expectations set about disease management across the lifespan, and a patient-centered treatment plan promptly initiated. To provide context, the review begins with a summary of disease characteristics, followed by genetic and environmental risks for developing endometriosis, the central role of estrogen and inflammation in the pathophysiology of pain and infertility relevant to the disease and biomarker discovery, and nonsurgical approaches that are increasingly being acknowledged by professional organizations across the globe to be of value in the diagnosis of this enigmatic disease with diverse manifestations.
In the eye of the storm
Authors: Füreder Nina , Förster Charlotte
Published: February 2024

Background

Although hospital leaders were already at a high risk for psychological and physical illnesses long before the pandemic, the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated this situation.

Purpose

Recognizing the crucial role of leaders in organizational crises and building on the conservation of resources theory, our study examines how hospital leaders cope with difficulties that endure over an extended period of time. By using the COVID-19 pandemic as an example for prolonged adversity in hospitals, we provide insight into the different responses to a given adversity and further expand knowledge about the role of time in crisis and for resilience.

Methodology/Approach

Qualitative expert interviews were conducted with 44 hospital leaders in Austria between December 2020 and November 2021. For data analysis, we used a hybrid approach, consisting of both deductive and inductive coding.

Results

By extending Bardoel and Drago’s (2021) conceptual approach on acceptance and strategic resilience, our empirical study shows that during enduring adversity, hospital leaders use both types of resilience. The choice between them and their suitability depends on both the duration of exposure and severity of the adversity.

Conclusion

Our findings further show that when immediately confronted with adversity, leaders tend to rely on resource-preserving acceptance resilience, whereas when dealing with enduring adversity, leaders are more likely to use resilience-enhancing strategic resilience.

Practical Implications

Even though leaders rely on both types of resilience, our findings also imply that if opportunities to build strategic resilience are limited, higher burnout and turnover rates might be the consequence.
Paediatrics pain management practice and associated factor among nurses at comprehensive and specialized hospital, Northwest Ethiopia, 2023: hospital based multicentre cross-sectional study
Authors: Alemu Eniyew A. , Tawuye Hailu Y. , Ferede Yonas A. , Fentie Demeke Y.
Published: February 2024

Background:

Pain management is a challenging intervention for children of all ages and a major worldwide health issue for painful illnesses that are stressful and range from moderate to severe. Inadequate pain management has serious short-term and long-term consequences for the physical, psychological, social, and physiological well-being of infants, toddlers, preschoolers, and schoolchildren. This study set out to assess nurses’ behaviours in treating paediatric pain and associated factors.

Methods:

A multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted. Convenient sampling was used to pick each participant in this study. The information was gathered using self-administered, semi-structured, and structured questionnaires. In the multivariable logistic regression analysis, variables with a P-value of 0.05 or less were considered statistically significant for the outcome variable. The adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and crude odds ratio with the appropriate 95% CI were computed to determine the strength of the link between the dependent and independent variables.

Result:

A total of 356 nurses were invited to participate in this study, with a response rate of 314 (88.2%) (95% CI: 53.3–64.4) in the study of participant nurses. It was found that level of education, having a master’s degree (AOR=6.35, CI=1.03–38.23), a child’s cooperativeness for taking pain medication (AOR=2.11, CI=1.25–3.55), the presence of an evidence-based protocol for paediatric pain management in the facility (AOR=1.75, CI=1.007–3.03), work experience in the nursing profession for more than 2 years (AOR=1,97, CI=0.71–4.31), and the availability of a paediatric pain assessment tool also, had three times more engaged in good paediatric pain management practice 2.96 (AOR=2.96 (CI: 1.66–5.28)) and having training on pain management (AOR=2.64, CI=1.27–5.47) were associated with paediatric pain management practice.

Conclusion and Recommendation:

Most of the participants were proficient at handling pain in children. The majority of participants had good practices, but there are still several crucial traits that have a big influence on how nurses manage paediatric pain. As a result, the authors suggest offering easily accessible paediatric pain assessment instruments, evidence-based procedures, and paediatric pain treatment in-service training.
Spontaneous delayed CSF rhinorrhea associated with encephalocele following surgical resection of a giant frontoparietal meningioma, an extremely rare entity and overlook of English literature
Authors: Mirahmadi Eraghi Mohammad , Bagherzadeh Sadegh , Khoshnevisan Alireza , Habibi Mohammad A. , Sajedi Moghaddam Sadaf , Shafizadeh Milad , Firouzifar Mohammadreza
Published: February 2024

Introduction and importance:

Spontaneous cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea without a history of head trauma is rare. The authors describe a scarce case of spontaneous, nontraumatic, delayed CSF rhinorrhea due to ethmoidal encephalocele associated with frontoparietal giant meningioma.

Case presentation:

A 49-year-old male complained of a slowly growing skull mass lasting 10 years since a blunt head trauma and progressive hemiparesis 3 months ago and was referred to our center. There was a heterogeneous extra-axial mass (77×77×70 mm) with calcified components at his right frontal lobe, demonstrating notable adjacent parenchymal edema and a midline shift to the left. There was a sizeable extra-axial mass (113×95×80 mm) in his right front-temporoparietal lobe associated with adjacent invasion to calvarium leading to the lytic and sclerotic appearance of the calvarial bone showing intense heterogeneous contrast enhancement and an adjacent enhancing dural tail. A considerable mass effect on the adjacent frontotemporal cortex is evident, with mild parenchymal edema leading to a notable midline shift to the left, right uncal herniation, and left ventriculomegaly. On postoperation day 5, the patient developed a recurrent CSF leak exacerbated by hydrocephalus. He was rescheduled to undergo endoscopic endonasal surgery and dural repair on postoperative day 7. The postoperative course was uneventful.

Clinical discussion:

Frontoparietal lobe encephaloceles represent the least common cause of spontaneous CSF rhinorrhea. Early diagnosis and surgical management remain crucial to minimize the subsequent complications.

Conclusion:

The ventricular anatomy and CSF fluid dynamics alteration following tumor surgical resection seem to contribute to an environment by which a herniated ethmoidal encephalocele developed a delayed nontraumatic CSF leak.
Current approaches to gender-affirming vocal care
Authors: McBrinn Sarah , Antoni Christella , Al Yaghchi Chadwan
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

This review addresses the challenges faced by transgender women in achieving congruence between gender identity and voice characteristics and emphasizes the importance of a multidisciplinary approach involving therapeutic and surgical interventions.

Recent findings

Recent literature on gender-affirming vocal care emphasizes key themes such as assessment, voice feminization therapy, and various surgical techniques, including glottoplasty and its modifications. Recent publications focused on outcomes, duration, and impact on vocal quality and scrutinized complications associated with surgical interventions.

Most publications in the last 18 months advocate for the integration of voice therapy and surgery for optimal outcomes. Utilising a combined approach is significantly more effective in terms of fundamental frequency gain compared to therapy alone. Modified Wendler's glottoplasty remains the preferred and most reliable surgical intervention. However, surgery is not without its complications and vocal trade-offs, in particular, its impact on vocal projection and the risk of long-term dysphonia. Postsurgery rehabilitation improves long-term outcomes. Recent publications on alternative surgical approaches, namely laser reduction glottoplasty and feminization laryngoplasty, show promise but the results are more difficult to generalise.

Future direction

Prospective multicentre studies with standardized protocols are needed to establish best evidence-based practices.
Effect of Orthognathic Surgery on Pre-existing Temporomandibular Disorders
Authors: Cohen Adir , Rushinek Heli , Cohen Sela Mati , Zok Ran Lioz , Talisman Shahar , Casap Nardy
Published: February 2024

The management of patients with pre-existing temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) undergoing orthognathic surgery remains a subject of ongoing debate. This study aimed to profile these individuals and evaluate the correlation between orthognathic surgery and alterations in TMD indicators and symptoms. We conducted a retrospective cohort investigation involving patients with skeletal malocclusion and established TMDs. Variables of interest encompassed the performance of orthognathic surgery, documented TMDs (including temporomandibular joint (TMJ) sounds, TMJ pain, muscle discomfort, and jaw locking), and patients’ self-assessments of TMJ and muscle pain using a visual analog scale (VAS). The primary outcome measures focused on changes in TMD indicators and symptoms. Among the study cohort, 73.4% exhibited skeletal class III malocclusion, while 26.6% presented with skeletal class II malocclusion. Notably, patients classified as skeletal class III were significantly younger than their skeletal class II counterparts (mean age: 23.06±5.37 vs. 26.71±7.33; P=0.034). The most prevalent pre-existing TMD complaint was TMJ sounds (65.5%), followed by TMJ pain (39.1%), muscle discomfort (23.4%), and jaw locking (12.5%). Skeletal class II patients were more likely to experience TMJ sounds compared to skeletal class III patients (88.2% vs. 57.4%; P=0.022). Statistically significant improvements were observed in the VAS assessments among class III patients following surgery. A majority of patients with pre-existing TMDs seeking orthognathic surgery exhibited skeletal class III malocclusion and were younger than those with skeletal class II malocclusion. Importantly, orthognathic surgery was associated with positive changes in TMD indicators and symptoms in these patients.
Hybrid Illumina-Nanopore assembly improves identification of multilocus sequence types and antimicrobial resistance genes of Staphylococcus aureus isolated from Vermont dairy farms: comparison to Illumina-only and R9.4.1 nanopore-only assemblies
Authors: Chakrawarti Ashma , Eckstrom Korin , Laaguiby Pheobe , Barlow John
Published: February 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Staphylococcus aureus is a pressing public health challenge with significant implications for the dairy industry, encompassing bovine mastitis concerns and potential zoonotic threats. To delve deeper into the resistance mechanisms of S. aureus, this study employed a hybrid whole genome assembly approach that synergized the precision of Illumina with the continuity of Oxford Nanopore. A total of 62 isolates, collected from multiple sources from Vermont dairy farms, were sequenced using the GridION Oxford Nanopore R9.4.1 platform and the Illumina platform, and subsequently processed through our specialized bioinformatics pipeline. Our analyses showcased the hybrid-assembled genome's superior completeness compared to Oxford Nanopore (R9.4.1)-only or Illumina-only assembled genomes. Furthermore, the hybrid assembly accurately determined multilocus sequence typing (MLST) strain types across all isolates. The comprehensive probe for antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) using databases like CARD, Resfinder, and MEGARES 2.0 characterized AMR in S. aureus isolates from Vermont dairy farms, and revealed the presence of notable resistance genes, including beta-lactam genes blaZ, blaI, and blaR. In conclusion, the hybrid assembly approach emerges as a tool for uncovering the genomic nuances of S. aureus isolates collected from multiple sources on dairy farms. Our findings offer a pathway for detecting AMR gene prevalence and shaping AMR management strategies crucial for safeguarding human and animal health.
Looking in the axion mirror: An all-sky analysis of stimulated decay
Authors: Sun Yitian , Schutz Katelin , Sewalls Harper , Leung Calvin , Masui Kiyoshi Wesley
Published: February 2024

Axion dark matter (DM) produces echo images of bright radio sources via stimulated decay. These images appear as a faint radio line centered at half the axion mass, with the line width set by the DM velocity dispersion. Due to the kinematics of the decay, the echo can be emitted in the direction nearly opposite to the incoming source of stimulating radiation, meaning that axions effectively behave as imperfect monochromatic mirrors. We present an all-sky analysis of axion DM-induced echo images using extragalactic radio point sources, Galactic supernova remnants (SNRs), and Galactic synchrotron radiation (GSR) as sources of stimulating radiation. The aggregate signal strength is not significantly affected by unknown properties of individual sources of stimulating radiation, which we sample from an empirical distribution to generate an ensemble of realizations for the all-sky signal template. We perform forecasts for CHIME, HERA, CHORD, HIRAX, and BURSTT, finding that they can run as competitive axion experiments simultaneously with other objectives, requiring no new hardware.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Bell inequality is violated in
B0→J/ψK*(892)0
decays
Authors: Fabbrichesi M. , Floreanini R. , Gabrielli E. , Marzola L.
Published: February 2024

The violation of the Bell inequality is one of the hallmarks of quantum mechanics and can be used to rule out local deterministic alternative descriptions. We utilize the data analysis published by the LHCb Collaboration on the helicity amplitudes for the decay B0→J/ψK*(892)0 to compute the entanglement among the polarizations of the final vector mesons and the violation of the Bell inequality that it entails. We find that quantum entanglement can be detected with a significance well above 5σ (nominally 84σ) and Bell inequality is violated with a significance well above 5σ (nominally 36σ)—thereby firmly establishing these distinguishing feature of quantum mechanics at high energies in a collider setting and in the presence of strong and weak interactions. Entanglement is also present and the Bell inequality is violated in other decays of the B mesons into vector mesons, but with lesser significance.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Stabilizer Subsystem Decompositions for Single- and Multimode Gottesman-Kitaev-Preskill Codes
Authors: Shaw Mackenzie H. , Doherty Andrew C. , Grimsmo Arne L.
Published: February 2024

The Gottesman-Kitaev-Preskill (GKP) error-correcting code encodes a finite-dimensional logical space in one or more bosonic modes, and has recently been demonstrated in trapped ions and superconducting microwave cavities. In this work we introduce a new subsystem decomposition for GKP codes that we call the stabilizer subsystem decomposition, analogous to the usual approach to quantum stabilizer codes. The decomposition has the defining property that a partial trace over the nonlogical stabilizer subsystem is equivalent to an ideal decoding of the logical state, distinguishing it from previous GKP subsystem decompositions. We describe how to decompose arbitrary states across the subsystem decomposition using a set of transformations that move between the decompositions of different GKP codes. Besides providing a convenient theoretical view on GKP codes, such a decomposition is also of practical use. We use the stabilizer subsystem decomposition to efficiently simulate noise acting on single-mode GKP codes, and in contrast to more conventional Fock basis simulations, we are able to consider essentially arbitrarily large photon numbers for realistic noise channels, such as loss and dephasing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Campus sustainable energy management initiatives at Goa Institute of Management
Authors: Amarnani Arpita , Mahtani Umesh , Sukhathankar Vithal
Published: February 2024

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes of this study are to identify and discuss ways in which energy consumption in a residential educational institute can be reduced by improving demand-side energy management for sustainable development; summarise the challenges that an institute faces in transitioning to a more environmentally friendly mode of operations concerning energy management; illustrate the difference between operating expense and capital expenditure methods used for solar rooftop projects from the perspective of Goa Institute of Management (GIM); and analyse different project proposals for solar rooftop power generation energy using capital budgeting techniques.

Case overview/synopsis

Dr Ajit Parulekar, director at GIM, was evaluating the steps taken over the past few years for sustainable energy management to understand their impact and consider ways in which to take the environmental sustainability agenda forward. One of the projects that he was considering was the rooftop solar power plant. GIM had received proposals from several different vendors and evaluated three proposals out of these. He needed to decide on the capacity of the rooftop solar power generation and the type of contract that he should get into for the implementation of the project. This case study describes the differences and highlights the advantages and disadvantages of all the mentioned models with respect to GIM.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for post-graduate level management students, as well as for undergraduate-level finance and management students.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS4: Environmental management.
Mapping the development of hydrogen-based technologies (HBTs) through patent analysis
Authors: Martino Nicola , Ardito Lorenzo , Messeni Petruzzelli Antonio , Rotolo Daniele
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to map the evolution of hydrogen-based technologies (HBTs) by examining the patenting activity associated to these technlogies from 1930 to 2020. In doing so, the study provides a novel perspective on the development of HBTs and offers implications for managers and policymakers.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected patent data at the level of patent families (PFs). Our sample includes 317,089 PFs related to hydrogen production and 62,496 PFs to hydrogen storage. We examined PF data to delineate the state of the art and major technical advancements of HBTs.

Findings

Our analysis provides evidence of an increasing patenting activity in the area of HBTs, hence suggesting relatively high levels of expectations on the economic potential of these technologies. US and Japan hold the largest proportion of PFs related to HBTs (about 60%), while European applicants hold the highest proportion of highly cited PFs (about 60%). While firms represent the applicant with the highest share of PFs, our analysis reveals that firms holding HBT PFs are primarily from the chemical sector.

Research limitations/implications

While our analysis is limited to examining patent data which capture some aspects of the innovation activity around HBTs (namelly, patented inventions), our study enriches existing literature by performinng a patent analysis on a much larger sample of data when compared to previous studies.

Practical implications

Two main implications emerge from our study. Firstly, there seems to be an urgent need to support the emergence of a dominant design so as to facilitate the consolidation and diffusion of the HBTs, hence the transition to a more sustainable energy production. Secondly, the majority of HBT PFs are held by a small number of countries. This, in turn, suggests opportunities to develop cross-country cooperation (e.g. international agreements, research and technology offices) to support the development and adoption of HBTs globally.

Social implications

Considering the results obtained in this study, from a social point of view, the attention that organizations have paid to hydrogen related technologies is evident. This suggests that the development HBTs can function as a social enabler for a sustianable energy transition.

Originality/value

Extant research has focused on the individual components of the hydrogen chain. As a result, we lack a comprehensive understanding of the progress made in the area of HBTs. To address this gap, this study examined HBTs by focusing on both production and storage technologies since their initial developments, hence adopting an observation period of about 70 years.
Sustainability-oriented corporate strategy: green image and innovation capabilities
Authors: Zameer Hashim , Yasmeen Humaira , Wang Ying , Saeed Muhammad Rashid
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Understanding the role of corporate strategies in sustainability has become a hot topic for scholarly research. Meanwhile, firms strive to innovate and shape their positive image in the contemporary business arena. Past research has ignored investigating whether and how sustainability-oriented corporate strategies could drive innovation and firm image among external stakeholders. To address the said research gap, this paper examines the path through which sustainability-oriented corporate strategy and environmental regulation improve green corporate image and green innovation capabilities (i.e. green process and product innovation).

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a quantitative survey-based method. The online survey was adopted to collect data from employees working at the managerial level in the equipment manufacturing sector. The data collected from 343 managers that was complete in all aspects was used for empirical analysis using structural equation modeling. Direct and indirect relations were evaluated.

Findings

The findings reveal that sustainability-oriented corporate strategy and environmental regulation drive green innovation and green corporate image. Findings further show that external knowledge adoption underpins these effects of sustainability-oriented corporate strategy and environmental regulation.

Originality/value

The study delivers theoretical and practical understandings of the importance of sustainability-oriented corporate strategies to green corporate image and green innovation capabilities.
Exploring Careers in Education and Leadership (ExCEL): Outcomes from year one of a high school education camp
Authors: Margot Kelly C. , Pierczynski Melissa , Lormand Kelly
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to address the increasing issue of teacher shortages and the lack of diversity in America’s educators. Highly diverse communities need ways to support community members interested in careers as teachers. This article explores one promising approach to reach and inspire high school students considering the teaching profession. Camp ExCEL (Exploring Careers in Education and Leadership) provided a pathway allowing rising high school seniors an opportunity to explore the teaching profession. This pathway utilized the Grow Your Own framework, recruiting students from a diverse community and providing them resources and information that would further efforts to become an educator within their community.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study examined outcomes from an education summer camp, using qualitative thematic analysis to reflexively interpret participants’ (n = 29) feelings and beliefs about effective teaching, culturally responsive teaching (CRT), project-based learning (PBL) and their camp experience. Data were collected using Google documents and surveys. The four connected themes that emerged were obstacles and barriers to teaching, qualities of an effective teacher, the impact of culturally responsive teaching and project-based learning on classrooms, and the importance of mentorships within education.

Findings

The paper provides insight about how an education camp can support high school students as they explore a career in education. Results suggest that focus on high-quality pedagogy can support student understanding of the career. Students also suggested their perception of effective teaching that includes acknowledging the needs of the whole student, modeling high-quality teaching practices and displaying positive professional dispositions.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to conduct and examine education camps further.

Practical implications

The paper includes implications for the development of other education camps, especially in areas with highly diverse populations.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to increase the number of persons pursuing a career in education. The focus on a highly diverse community is also an area of need in education. This article details the description of an education camp and the curriculum used, along with findings from data collected during the first year.
The mediocrity of AI
Authors: Crowther David , Hamdan Hiba
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to challenge the fashion of ubiquitous artificial intelligence (AI) and the effects which it will have upon society. In doing so it argues that the effects of AI will be minimal but important.

Design/methodology/approach

This argument is based upon the Socratic method and explores the Utilitarian background in which AI is based while drawing upon classical literature and other examples to illustrate the argument.

Findings

The findings are encompassed in the argument and show that we need to be more open and careful when considering AI and its effects. We also need to be more realistic when considering potential benefits.

Practical implications

This argument has significant implications for the adoption of AI.

Social implications

The social implications are equally profound and will impact upon our application of AI solutions to current problems and upon humanity more generally.

Originality/value

This is the first paper which relates AI to human successes.
Sustainable educational tourism and the acculturation of international students from the Global South
Authors: Yorganci Ilkay , Sadrimovahed Mahtab
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to understand the acculturation experiences of international students in order to maximize their academic and social experiences which, in turn, can facilitate the development of sustainable educational tourism in the host country.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative methodology and semi-structured interview techniques, 40 international postgraduate tourism students from the Global South were interviewed.

Findings

The findings in this study demonstrated that the main problems faced by these students are inadequate funds and language difficulties.

Originality/value

This study highlighted the fact that although the number of international students is growing all over the world, for most of the students from poorer parts of the world, being an international student is fraught with difficulties. It also demonstrated that although acculturation stress is a serious concern, lack of adequate funding assumes greater importance for students from a poor background.
Managing Asymmetries for Data Mobilization under Digital Transformation
Authors: Kazantsev Nikolai , Batolas Dimitrios , White Leroy
Published: February 2024

Resource mobilization is a significant challenge for firms seeking survival and competitive advantage, especially in the context of digital transformation. Data has emerged as a vital resource, but its intangible nature adds complexity to the interactions between resource holders and seekers. This paper aims to address the gaps in understanding data resource mobilization by integrating perspectives on information, dependence, and orientation asymmetry using a social exchange perspective. The study focuses on the regulated animal healthcare industry, where a large established organization acts as the resource holder, universities act as intermediaries, and startups act as resource seekers. Through three years of data collection, the study finds that the context is rich in all three types of asymmetries and characterized by high uncertainty surrounding data as a resource. Actors engage in direct social exchanges to address information asymmetries and in generalized exchanges through intermediaries to deal with dependence and orientation asymmetries. The study contributes to theory by providing insights into the complex dynamics of resource mobilization in the context of digital transformation and proposes practical implications for managing multiple asymmetries and mobilizing data effectively for firm performance in regulated environments.
Reframing the public/private debate on healthcare services: Tracking boundaries in the National Health Service
Authors: Cowan Hannah
Published: February 2024

This paper intervenes in the dichotomous debate on the ‘privatisation’ of the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). Whilst research suggests that involving private‐sector actors and principles deviates from the founding aims of the NHS to deliver equitable healthcare for all, the opposing argument to ‘keep our NHS public’ also limits understanding and alternative possibilities. Through focusing on maintaining overarching structures, these campaigns fail to address everyday medical practices that have long been critiqued by those allied with the sociology of health and illness. This paper draws on feminist critiques of public/private to expand the structural economic lens of mainstream political debates and explore how multiple forms of economic, social, cultural, and symbolic capital, operate in everyday healthcare practices. Through an historically‐informed ethnographic exploration of routine hip replacements, I find that capital itself emerges through relations between people and things, and that public/private boundaries play an integral role in forming these relations to instil value on particular patients and forms of labour, demarcating what kind of healthcare is given to whom. I therefore suggest future action should focus on assembling healthcare relations beyond the dualism of public/private categories, to create multiple safe places and relations for all.