bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sign Problem in Tensor-Network Contraction
Authors: Chen Jielun , Jiang Jiaqing , Hangleiter Dominik , Schuch Norbert
Published: January 2025

We investigate how the computational difficulty of contracting tensor networks depends on the sign structure of the tensor entries. Using results from computational complexity, we observe that the approximate contraction of tensor networks with only positive entries has lower computational complexity as compared to tensor networks with general real or complex entries. This raises the question of how this transition in computational complexity manifests itself in the hardness of different tensor-network-contraction schemes. We pursue this question by studying random tensor networks with varying bias toward positive entries. First, we consider contraction via Monte Carlo sampling and find that the transition from hard to easy occurs when the tensor entries become predominantly positive; this can be understood as a tensor-network manifestation of the well-known negative-sign problem in quantum Monte Carlo. Second, we analyze the commonly used contraction based on boundary tensor networks. The performance of this scheme is governed by the number of correlations in contiguous parts of the tensor network (which by analogy can be thought of as entanglement). Remarkably, we find that the transition from hard to easy—i.e., from a volume-law to a boundary-law scaling of entanglement—already occurs for a slight bias of the tensor entries toward a positive mean, scaling inversely with the bond dimension D, and thus the problem becomes easy the earlier the larger D occurs. This is in contrast both to expectations and to the behavior found in Monte Carlo contraction, where the hardness at fixed bias increases with the bond dimension. To provide insight into this early breakdown of computational hardness and the accompanying entanglement transition, we construct an effective classical statistical-mechanical model that predicts a transition at a bias of the tensor entries of 1/D, confirming our observations. We conclude by investigating the computational difficulty of computing expectation values of tensor-network wave functions (projected entangled-pair states, PEPSs) and find that in this setting, the complexity of entanglement-based contraction always remains low. We explain this by providing a local transformation that maps PEPS expectation values to a positive-valued tensor network. This not only provides insight into the origin of the observed boundary-law entanglement scaling but also suggests new approaches toward PEPS contraction based on positive decompositions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Syntheses and crystal structures of the cerium-based coordination polymers poly[(acetic acid)bis(μ-5-carboxythiophene-2-carboxylato)bis(μ-thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylato)dicerium(III)] and poly[(μ-acetato)aqua(μ4-thiophene-2,5-dicarboxylato)cerium(III)]
Authors: Ruser Niklas , Näther Christian , Stock Norbert
Published: January 2025

The title compounds, [Ce2(C6H3SO4)2(C6H2SO4)2(CH3COOH)]
n
(1) and [Ce(CH3COO)(C6H2SO4)(H2O)]
n
(2) were synthesized by solvothermal reaction of Ce(NO3)3·6H2O with 2,5-thiophenedicarboxylic acid (H2TDC, C6H4SO4) and acetic acid in acetonitrile or ethanol/water, respectively. These compounds were obtained as single crystals among other crystalline phases. Both compounds belong to the family of three-dimensional coordination polymers. The asymmetric unit of 1 consists of two CeIII cations, two TDC2− dianions, two HTDC− anions and one acetic acid ligand, all of them located in general positions. The two CeIII cations are each coordinated by eight oxygen atoms in the form of distorted square antiprisms. These are bridged by carboxylate and carboxylic acid groups, forming mono-periodic hybrid inorganic building units (IBUs), which are connected into a three-dimensional network by the TDC2− and HTDC− ligands. Compound 2 has an asymmetric unit composed of one CeIII cation, one TDC2− dianion, one acetate anion and one water molecule in general positions. The cerium atom is eightfold coordinated by oxygen atoms. Edge-sharing CeO8 polyhedra form a dinuclear IBU (Ce2O14). This IBU is bridged by six TDC2− linkers to nine other IBUs, forming a three-dimensional framework. Both title compounds exhibit additional O—H...O hydrogen bonds. Powder X-ray diffraction shows that both compounds were not obtained as pure phases.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 2-methylquinazolin-4(3H)-one hydrochloride
Authors: Davlatboev Muzaffar , Allabergenova Sevara , Zulpanov Fazliddin , Yakubov Ubaydullo , Tojiboev Akmaljon , Sattarov Tulkinjon
Published: January 2025

The title salt (systematic name: 2-methyl-4-oxo-3,4-dihydroquinazolin-1-ium chloride), C9H9N2O+·Cl−, has orthorhombic (Pbcm) symmetry. Except for two methyl H atoms, all atoms of the molecular cation are located about a mirror plane, making the quinazolinium moiety exactly planar. Individual molecules are arranged in (001) layers in the crystal. Supramolecular features include N—H...Cl hydrogen-bonding interactions, leading to zigzag chains along [010] with D
1
1(2) and C
1
2(6) graph-set motifs. Additionally, weak π–π stacking interactions occur between benzene rings in adjacent layers. Hirshfeld surface analysis revealed that the most important contributions to the surface contacts are from H...H (36.1%), H...C/C...H (25.8%), and H...O/O...H (17.7%) interactions.
Platform digitization capability and organizational resilience: examining the roles of resource reconfiguration and environmental munificence
Authors: Li Xiadi , Lin Hanchuan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Despite the importance of platform digitization capability to established firms, empirical research related to platform digitization capability, resource reconfiguration and organizational resilience remains scarce. Based on resource action view and contingency theory, this study constructs an integrated theoretical framework to examine the mediation effect of resource reconfiguration and the moderation effect of environmental munificence in the relationship between resource reconfiguration and organizational resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data comprising 312 valid responses are collected from manufacturing firms in China. Partial least squares equation modeling (PLS) was used in this study to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Results showed that platform digitization capability is positively related to organizational resilience. Resource recombination and resource reallocation mediate the platform digitization capability–organizational resilience relationship. Furthermore, environmental munificence significantly strengthens the relationship between resource recombination and organizational resilience while weakens the relationship between resource reallocation and organizational resilience.

Originality/value

This study reveals the path of platform digitization capability affecting organizational resilience, discusses the different role of resource recombination and resource reallocation and makes incremental contributions to resource action view. It also studies the impact of resource reconfiguration on organizational resilience under the condition of environmental munificence, which provides a new perspective for the study of organizational resilience and enriches the application of contingency theory in the crisis context.
The role of online communities in shaping the Society 5.0 paradigm: a social capital perspective
Authors: Ancillai Chiara , Bartoloni Sara , Filipovic Jelena , Temperini Valerio
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The study’s purpose is to understand how online communities, thanks to their knowledge-sharing potential, can help to achieve the principles of a human-centered society. The social capital theory is applied to understand knowledge contribution and knowledge sharing in online communities.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach based on a single case study of an international online community is adopted.

Findings

The case study highlights how each social capital facet unfolds within the online community to model efficient knowledge exchange among members. The developed social capital generates benefits at three interconnected system levels: micro (individuals), meso (companies), and macro (society).

Originality/value

The paper makes several contributions to the literature on Society 5.0, social capital theory, and knowledge management by bringing the needed empirical evidence on how to exploit online digital technologies to generate the benefits associated with Society 5.0. It also demonstrates that social capital theory is a valuable theoretical lens through which to explain how knowledge-sharing and exchange mechanisms in online communities contribute to shaping a human-centered society.
Prioritizing performance objectives of vaccine supply chain for future pandemics
Authors: Rai Pratik , Bera Sasadhar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The vaccine supply chain (VSC) performance remains under stress during pandemic outbreaks than conventional vaccination drives due to desired vaccination coverage. Therefore, it is essential to identify the crucial performance objectives (POs) and their interrelationship structure and prioritize them to improve performance in a pandemic VSC.

Design/methodology/approach

This study combines the decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory based analytic network process (DANP) method with spherical fuzzy sets (SFS) to explore critical POs of the pandemic VSC in the balanced scorecard framework. The SFS theory tackles the uncertainty of POs and DANP interlaced causal relationships among crucial POs to the pandemic VSC while ranking them for prioritization.

Findings

This work identifies 32 issues associated with pandemic VSC and maps them against 13 POs. Effective communication, adequate health financing and operating cost optimization are the most critical POs, and operational issues listed under them must be prioritized to improve the overall VSC performance for future pandemics. The relationship structure among these POs is also summarized using the balanced scorecard framework in a strategy map.

Research limitations/implications

The strategy map proposed in this study can help practitioners to address the causality among different POs and underlying issues for the sudden expansion of vaccination programs during pandemics from an economic, social and operational perspective.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first empirical study to suggest improving the VSC performance during the pandemic by focusing on the causative relationship and priority of different detected POs.
Generative AI tools (ChatGPT*) in social science research
Authors: Sebastian Rigin , Kottekkadan Noufal Naheem , Thomas Toney K. , Niyas KK Mohammed
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to critically examine the implications of using generative artificial intelligence (AI) models, such as ChatGPT and Bard, in social science research. It examines the doppelganger effect in AI-driven studies as well as cognitive dissonance brought on by the autonomy of these tools. The discussion also addresses the debate between quantitative and qualitative methods for evaluating AI-driven research, scrutinising existing guidelines for accountability and validity. In addition, the paper considers the potential for generative AI to dominate research, identifying “non-takeoverable” skills and ethical issues in AI-driven knowledge production.

Design/methodology/approach

This work primarily focuses on research articles for conceptual clarity, while news media reports are used to illustrate current scenarios.

Findings

The doppelganger effect makes people worry about situations in which AI copies existing work so well that it becomes possible for people to give the wrong credit. This has led to a critical review of ways to make sure that the outputs of generative AI are real and original. Generative AI can enhance data collection and analysis, offering alternative approaches to traditional research methodologies. By leveraging the capabilities of generative AI, researchers can potentially uncover new insights and perspectives from their data.

Originality/value

It is crucial to acknowledge the ethical concerns associated with using generative AI in social science research. The deployment of such technology introduces the possibility of biases and other ethical challenges that may impact the cognitive abilities of human participants or researchers involved in the research process. The work makes an effort by encouraging ethical consideration and highlighting crucial human abilities that are still necessary, providing a novel viewpoint on the use of generative AI in research approaches.
Understanding public preference for misinformation interventions: support for digital platform monitoring, media literacy education and legislation
Authors: Tsang Stephanie Jean , Zhou Lin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Concerns regarding the implementation of interventions to address misinformation have been prominent in Hong Kong and other regions. This study aims to explore the factors that influence public support for digital platform regulation, media literacy education and legislation in the fight against misinformation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilized data from a nationally sampled survey in Hong Kong (N = 1,654) collected during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Findings

Perceptions of the direction in which misinformation is biased moderated the influence of the third-person perception on support for all three intervention types: digital platform regulation, media literacy education and legislation. As individuals differ in their focus on either penalizing those who spread misinformation or safeguarding themselves from potential consequences, varying strategies are favored. Media literacy education stands out as a preferred approach since it neither penalizes individuals nor restricts freedom of expression, offering a gentle form of intervention.

Practical implications

Governments may view media literacy education as a favorable intervention, as it garners support without infringing on free speech. Conversely, individuals advocating for more stringent measures, such as enforcement actions, may lean towards legislation rather than literacy education.

Originality/value

This research is unique in its simultaneous comparison and contrast of public support for three misinformation interventions. It underscores the significance of taking both third-person perceptions and perceptions of bias of misinformation into account when considering strategies to combat misinformation.
Navigating ethical and methodological challenges: lessons from data collection among non-binary gendered people in Hungary and Bangladesh
Authors: Sony M.M. Abdullah Al Mamun
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper investigates the challenges associated with collecting data from non-binary gender individuals in Hungary and Bangladesh. It aims to explore the legal, social and cultural factors contributing to their marginalization and the ethical and methodological considerations necessary to conduct research in such contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a qualitative approach, utilizing snowball sampling and partnerships with local NGOs to recruit participants from marginalized communities. A combination of in-person and virtual interviews was used to ensure participant safety and comfort. Ethical measures, particularly concerning anonymity and confidentiality, were rigorously followed to protect participants from potential harm.

Findings

The study identifies key challenges, including mistrust among participants, legal constraints in Hungary and social exclusion in Bangladesh. By leveraging trust-building techniques and flexible data-collection methods, the research overcame obstacles in accessing and engaging non-binary individuals. The findings provide a framework for collecting reliable data while safeguarding participants' rights in diverse socio-political contexts.

Research limitations/implications

While the study offers valuable insights, its findings may be limited by the snowball sampling method, which could introduce sample bias. Future research should explore more diverse recruitment strategies to enhance generalizability.

Practical implications

The research highlights the importance of culturally sensitive and flexible methodologies in studies involving marginalized populations. It provides guidelines for future researchers on overcoming recruitment challenges and ensuring ethical compliance when working with vulnerable groups.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the limited methodological literature on data collection from non-binary gender individuals. It offers innovative strategies for engaging marginalized populations in different socio-political contexts and underscores the need for ethical rigor in qualitative research.
Exploring social responsibility towards gig workers: a comprehensive review and future research directions
Authors: Ray Bhumika , Verma Mohit , Gautam Nikshit , Kumar Manindra
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to present a comprehensive review of the scientific literature on gig work and the social responsibility towards them; the study highlights the evolving nature of work, career and organisation, focussing on their social responsibility towards gig work.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review of 186 selected articles published since the beginning of the gig economy research. Quantitative bibliometric and framework-based review techniques were used to analyse theoretical nuances, themes, antecedents and contextual factors.

Findings

Factors responsible for the social responsibility towards gig work were identified. The factors were categorised into individual, organisational and social-related attributes. Overall, the contextual factors, top articles, authors and journals suggested that gig work research is increasing exponentially across the globe.

Research limitations/implications

The understanding of the factors influencing the gig work explored, the long-term implications of disruptions or gig workers’ well-being and exploring the impact of social and cultural aspects of the gig work research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to analyse the factors influencing social responsibility towards gig work in the changing nature of work, career and organisation. The study provides future directions for expanding the scholarship, resulting in the sustainability of this form of employment.
The endocuticle structural glycoprotein AgSgAbd‐2‐like is required for cuticle formation and survival in the melon aphid Aphis gossypii
Authors: Guo Mingyu , Qu Xueting , Cheng Shenhang , Wang Haiqi , Xue Yang , Shen Jie , Wang Dan
Published: January 2025

Cuticular proteins are essential for cuticle formation, molting, and survival in insects. However, functional analysis of cuticular proteins in the melon aphid has been limited. In this study, we identified an endocuticle structural glycoprotein (ESG) AgSgAbd‐2‐like in the melon aphid Aphis gossypii, which is a member of the RR‐1 subfamily of the CPR (cuticular protein containing the conserved Rebers–Riddiford motif) chitin‐binding proteins. When double‐stranded RNA is delivered epidermally, AgSgAbd‐2‐like is knocked down, resulting in molting defects and mortality. The expression of AgSgAbd‐2‐like is comparatively low prior to molting and increases following molting. Ecdysone signaling consistently suppresses AgSgAbd‐2‐like. Histologically, the endocuticle and whole cuticle are thinner in AgSgAbd‐2‐like RNA interference (RNAi) aphids, which is a leading cause of molting defects and mortality. Furthermore, knockdown of any other homolog of ESGs, including AgSgAbd‐4, AgSgAbd‐4‐like, AgSgAbd‐8‐like, and AgSgAbd‐9‐like, results in molting defects and death, like that by AgSgAbd‐2‐like RNAi. These results indicate that the melon aphid ESGs are conserved in cuticle formation and could be potential targets for RNAi‐based pest management.
A Phage‐Based Approach to Identify Antivirulence Inhibitors of Bacterial Type IV Pili
Authors: Shimozono Tori M. , Vogelaar Nancy J. , O'Hara Megan T. , Yang Zhaomin
Published: January 2025

The increasing threat of antibiotic resistance underscores the urgent need for innovative strategies to combat infectious diseases, including the development of antivirulants. Microbial pathogens rely on their virulence factors to initiate and sustain infections. Antivirulants are small molecules designed to target virulence factors, thereby attenuating the virulence of infectious microbes. The bacterial type IV pilus (T4P), an extracellular protein filament that depends on the T4P machinery (T4PM) for its biogenesis, dynamics and function, is a key virulence factor in many significant bacterial pathogens. While the T4PM presents a promising antivirulence target, the systematic identification of inhibitors for its multiple protein constituents remains a considerable challenge. Here we report a novel high‐throughput screening (HTS) approach for discovering T4P inhibitors. It uses Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a high‐priority pathogen, in combination with its T4P‐targeting phage, φKMV. Screening of a library of 2168 compounds using an optimised protocol led to the identification of tuspetinib, based on its deterrence of the lysis of P. aeruginosa by φKMV. Our findings show that tuspetinib also inhibits two additional T4P‐targeting phages, while having no effect on a phage that recognises lipopolysaccharides as its receptor. Additionally, tuspetinib impedes T4P‐mediated motility in P. aeruginosa and Acinetobacter species without impacting growth or flagellar motility. This bacterium‐phage pairing approach is applicable to a broad range of virulence factors that are required for phage infection, paving ways for the development of advanced chemotherapeutics against antibiotic‐resistant infections.
Self‐reported experiences and perspectives on using psychedelics to manage opioid use among participants of two Reddit communities
Authors: Krawczyk Noa , Miller Megan , Gu Emma Yuanqi , Irvine Natalia , Ramirez Elisbel , Santaella‐Tenorio Julian , Lippincott Thomas , Bogenschutz Michael , Bunting Amanda M. , Meacham Meredith C.
Published: January 2025

Background and Aims

The opioid crisis continues to exert a tremendous toll in North America, with existing interventions often falling short of addressing ongoing needs. Psychedelics are emerging as a possible alternative therapy for mental health and substance use disorders. This study aimed to gather insights on how people use or are considering using psychedelics to manage opioid use disorder (OUD), how these experiences are perceived to impact opioid use and what these lessons imply for future research and practice.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative study using the Reddit online community platform. We extracted posts that contained key psychedelic terms from the two most subscribed‐to subreddits dedicated to discussions of OUD treatment (r/OpiatesRecovery and r/Methadone) from 2018 to 2021. We thematically analyzed content from 151 relevant posts and their respective comments.

Results

Two prominent themes identified in discussions were perspectives on the effectiveness of psychedelics in treating OUD, and mechanisms through which psychedelics were thought to impact use and desire to use opioids. For many, psychedelics were deemed to have a strong impact on opioid use via multiple mechanisms, including alleviating physical symptoms of dependence, shifting motivations around desire to use opioids and addressing underlying mental health problems and reasons for use. Others saw the potential promise around psychedelics as exaggerated, acknowledging many people eventually return to use, or even considered psychedelics dangerous.

Conclusions

There appear to be diverse perspectives on the effects of using psychedelics to treat opioid use disorder and an urgent need for controlled studies to better understand the impact of different psychedelics on opioid use, how they may be used in the context of existing treatments and what strategies they must be combined with to ensure safety and effectiveness. Integrating the experiences of people who use drugs will help guide psychedelics research toward effective person‐centered interventions to enhance health and wellness.
Cystic Spaces in the Endometrium on Ultrasound and Correlations With Pathological Diagnosis: A Contemporary Retrospective Cohort Study in a Tertiary Centre
Authors: McBain Rosemary , Reidy Karen , Palma‐Dias Ricardo , Healey Martin
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To determine the correlation between the ultrasound finding of cystic spaces in the endometrium and endometrial hyperplasia or cancer.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study at a tertiary teaching hospital in Victoria, Australia, between January 2014 and December 2016. Patients who had a tertiary ultrasound where the endometrium was assessed and underwent endometrial sampling in the subsequent year were included.

Results

There were 1614 patients who were included, and 154 (9.5%) had endometrial cystic spaces on ultrasound. Sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value for a histological finding of polyps were 16.3%, 93.4%, 51.3% and 72.3%, respectively; for endometrial hyperplasia without atypia (EH no A) 40.7%, 91.0%, 7.1% and 98.9%, respectively; for hyperplasia with atypia (EH with A) 25.0%, 90.8%, 5.2%, 98.4%, respectively and for endometrial cancer were 19.5%, 90.7%, 5.2% and 97.7%, respectively. When adjusted for age, endometrial thickness and the presence of polyps on ultrasound, cystic spaces increased the odds of a histologic diagnosis of polyps (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.13 (95% CI 1.41–3.21) P < 0.001) or EH no A (aOR 5.20 (95% CI 2.06–13.12) P < 0.001) and reduced the odds of endometrial cancer (aOR 0.26 (0.08–0.81) P = 0.02).

Conclusion

Cystic spaces on ultrasound are more likely to indicate the presence of EH no A or an endometrial polyp than endometrial cancer. As one in ten patients who had cystic spaces on tertiary ultrasound had a pathologic diagnosis of EH with A or carcinoma, there remains a need for sampling in this group until better data are available.
Uptake of Quitline Telephone Counselling by Women Who Smoke During Pregnancy
Authors: Bailey Cheryl , Ellwood David , Middleton Philippa , Wojcieszek Aleena M. , Flenady Vicki , Andrews Christine
Published: January 2025

Background

While many pregnant women accept referrals for smoking cessation support, the uptake of telephone counselling appointments is unknown.

Aims

To determine the uptake rate of Quitline appointments among Australian pregnant women who smoke after being referred by a healthcare provider.

Materials and Methods

Data on attendance at telephone counselling appointments, number of appointments attended, gestational age at referral, referral source and smoking cessation upon completion of the program were requested from Quitline. Descriptive analysis of trends over time were undertaken using retrospective data from six Australian jurisdictions between 2016 and 2023 for pregnant women referred to Quitline by healthcare providers.

Results

A total of 7503 pregnant women who smoke were referred to Quitline in the study period. More than half (n = 4072, 54%) did not attend any telephone counselling appointments, 24% (n = 1812) attended one appointment, 10% (n = 725) two, 5% (n = 359) three and only 7% (n = 535) attended four or more appointments. Gestational age at referral was available for 1203 women in Queensland, with 52% (n = 624) attending their first phone appointment between 1 and 20 weeks of pregnancy and 48% (n = 579) attending between 21 and 40 weeks. The overall referred smoking cessation rate in this cohort was 4% and 52% for those completing the program.

Conclusions

The Quitline referral model for smoking cessation support for pregnant women is suboptimal. Comprehensive and consistent routinely collected data are urgently needed to monitor Quitline services for pregnant women who smoke across Australia. Further research is needed to understand the barriers to referral and uptake.
Outcomes after cystectomy in Australian rural and metropolitan hospitals by intensive care admissions
Authors: Paynter Jessica A. , Doherty Zakary , Qin Kirby R. , Pilcher David , Brennan Janelle
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To examine demographics and in‐hospital outcomes for patients admitted to Australian intensive care units (ICUs) following cystectomy of the urinary bladder. Additionally, to compare outcomes between metropolitan and rural hospitals.

Patients and Methods

A retrospective cohort analysis was undertaken of all adult patients admitted to participating Australian ICUs (Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society Adult Patient Database) following cystectomy/cystoprostatectomy between January 2011 and December 2021. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality. Secondary outcomes were ICU and hospital length of stay.

Results

Over the 10‐year period, 3376 adult patients were admitted to 135 Australian ICUs after cystectomy. Of these, 3083 patients (91.3%) were treated in 106 metropolitan ICUs and 293 patients (8.7%) were treated in 29 rural ICUs. There was no difference in adjusted mortality between metropolitan and rural hospitals admitted to an ICU after cystectomy (odds ratio 1.32, 95% confidence interval 0.44–3.48; P = 0.6).

Conclusion

There was no difference in in‐hospital mortality for cystectomy patients requiring ICU admission between metropolitan and rural hospitals. These findings may be used to inform decisions about the rural provision of cystectomy services.
Prognostic value of changes in vibration‐controlled transient elastography parameters for liver, cardiovascular and mortality outcomes in individuals with type 2 diabetes and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease: The Rio de Janeiro type 2 diabetes cohort
Authors: Leite Nathalie C. , Villela‐Nogueira Cristiane A. , Santos Lorrane V. , Cardoso Claudia R. L. , Salles Gil F.
Published: January 2025

Background/Aims

The prognostic importance of changes in vibration‐controlled transient elastography (VCTE) parameters, liver stiffness measurement (LSM), and controlled attenuation parameter (CAP), in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is unknown.

Methods

A prospective cohort of 288 patients underwent 2 VCTE exams at least 2 years apart, and the relative percentage changes in LSM and CAP were calculated. Outcomes were the occurrence of any liver‐related events (LREs), cardiovascular events (CVEs), and all‐cause mortality. Multivariable Cox analyses, adjusted for liver and cardiometabolic factors, assessed associations between VCTE parameters changes, both as continuous and dichotomical variables (LSM increase >15% and CAP reduction >10%), and outcomes.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 6 years, there were 22 LREs, 28 CVEs, and 37 all‐cause deaths. For LREs, baseline LSM was the strongest predictor, but LSM increases added further prognostic value (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.5 [1.0–2.1], 1‐SD increment). For CVEs, both LSM increase (HR: 1.7 [1.3–2.3]) and CAP reduction (HR: 1.5 [1.0–2.3], 1‐SD decrease) were significant predictors. For all‐cause mortality, baseline CAP was a protective predictor. When classified into subgroups based on LSM and CAP changes, the subgroup with both increased LSM and reduced CAP had the highest risks for CVEs (HR:5.3 [1.4–19.6]) and all‐cause mortality (HR: 3.4 [1.2–9.6]). The highest risk for LREs was observed in the subgroup with increased LSM without CAP reduction (HR: 3.5 [0.9–12.9]).

Conclusions

VCTE parameters changes, LSM increase and CAP reduction, provide prognostic information for adverse liver, cardiovascular, and mortality outcomes in individuals with T2D and MASLD.
First record of Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) in Algeria
Authors: Labdaoui Zine Eddine , Bourmita Younes , Halima Monia Kamel Ben , Guenaoui Yamina
Published: January 2025

Observations conducted from the end of May to July 2024 on the leaves of Ficus microcarpa trees present in public gardens and in green spaces of several academic institutions in the Mostaganem region, Algeria revealed the occurrence of a new species of invasive whitefly Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae). All life stages (eggs, nymphs, puparia and adults) were observed. The species was identified based on its morphological characteristics. This discovery is significant as S. simplex poses a substantial threat to urban forestry and ornamental areas, as F. microcarpa is widely grown and given the known impact of S. simplex in other regions.
Effects of Atmospheric Pollutants on Volatile‐Mediated Insect Ecosystem Services
Authors: Pinto‐Zevallos Delia M. , Skaldina Oksana , Blande James D.
Published: January 2025

Primary and secondary atmospheric pollutants, including carbon monoxide (CO), carbon dioxide (CO2), nitrogen oxides (NOx), ozone (O3), sulphur dioxide (SO2) and particulate matter (PM2.5/PM10) with associated heavy metals (HMs) and micro‐ and nanoplastics (MPs/NPs), have the potential to influence and alter interspecific interactions involving insects that are responsible for providing essential ecosystem services (ESs). Given that insects rely on olfactory cues for vital processes such as locating mates, food sources and oviposition sites, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are of paramount importance in interactions involving insects. While gaseous pollutants reduce the lifespan of individual compounds that act as olfactory cues, gaseous and particulate pollutants can alter their biosynthesis and emission and exert a direct effect on the olfactory system of insects. Consequently, air pollutants can affect ecosystem functioning and the services regulated by plant–insect interactions. This review examines the already identified and potential impacts of air pollutants on different aspects of VOC‐mediated plant–insect interactions underlying a range of insect ES. Furthermore, we investigate the potential susceptibility of insects to future environmental changes and the adaptive mechanisms they may employ to efficiently detect odours. The current body of knowledge on the effects of air pollutants on key interspecific interactions is biased towards and limited to a few pollinators, herbivores and parasitoids on model plants. There is a notable absence of research on decomposers and seed dispersers. With exception of O3 and NOx, the effects of some widespread and emerging environmental pollutants, such as secondary organic aerosols (SOAs), SO2, HMs, PM and MPs/NPs, remain largely unexplored. It is recommended that the identified knowledge gaps be addressed in future research, with the aim of designing effective mitigation strategies for the adverse effects in question and developing robust conservation frameworks.
Double Trouble for Native Species Under Climate Change: Habitat Loss and Increased Environmental Overlap With Non‐Native Species
Authors: Jan Arif , Arismendi Ivan , Giannico Guillermo
Published: January 2025

Climate change and biological invasions are affecting natural ecosystems globally. The effects of these stressors on native species' biogeography have been studied separately, but their combined effects remain overlooked. Here, we develop a framework to assess how climate change influences both the range and niche overlap of native and non‐native species using ecological niche models. We hypothesize that species with similar niches will experience both range reductions and increased niche overlap under future climates. We evaluate this using the ongoing invasion of smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) and northern pike (Esox lucius) on the native habitats of redband trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and bull trout (Salvelinus confluentus) in western North America. Future climate conditions will reduce habitat suitability for native and non‐native species, but an increased niche overlap might exacerbate negative effects on native fishes. Our framework offers a tool to predict potential species distribution and interactions under climate change, informing adaptive management globally.
Related factors of postoperative half‐year care utilization for health status and recovery in older adults with hip fracture: A retrospective study of Osaka National Health Insurance Data
Authors: Wang Huiting , Yamakawa Miyae , Suto Shunji , Takeya Yasushi , Oyama Asuka , Toki Hiroshi , Yamamoto Ryohei
Published: January 2025

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between preoperative patient factors and postoperative half‐year health care utilization reflecting recovery, common complications, comorbidities, and significant health concerns, identifying strong risk and protective factors.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study utilized linear, quantile, and ordinal regressions to analyze Osaka National Health Insurance data from 26 606 elderly patients who underwent hip fracture surgery between 2012 and 2018.

Results

The key factors associated with multiple postoperative care utilizations (P < 0.001) included:

1 Compared with men, women were strongly negatively correlated with postoperative length of stay (LOS) at q90, diabetes prescriptions or drip injections, while showing strong positive associations with postoperative antihypertensive, antiosteoporosis, and antidementia prescriptions.

2 Age has a strong negative correlation with antiosteoporosis or diabetes prescriptions but strongly positive associations with indwelling urinary catheters or drip injections.

3 The preoperative 1‐year LOS correlated positively with the postoperative LOS or indwelling urinary catheters, and the strongest associations were observed at q25 with the postoperative LOS. It was significantly and negatively associated with antihypertensive or antidementia prescriptions.

4 Many preoperative care utilizations were positive factors, and some were strong factors at q25 of the LOS.

Conclusions

Nuanced relationships between the female sex; preoperative LOS; antidementia, antiosteoporosis, antihypertensive and constipation prescriptions; indwelling catheters, and postoperative LOS were elucidated. These are key risks during shorter postoperative LOS, while male subgroups are at a higher risk during longer LOS duration. Patients with extended preoperative diabetes prescriptions or drip injections are at high risk of multiple postoperative care. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 190–205.
Prognostic significance of the Questionnaire for Medical Checkup of Old‐Old for the incidence of functional disability: The Shizuoka Kokuho Database study
Authors: Tabara Yasuharu , Shoji‐Asahina Aya , Akasaka Hiroshi , Sugimoto Ken , Sato Yoko
Published: January 2025

Aim

In the Japanese health checkup system for older adults aged ≥75 years, the Questionnaire for Medical Checkup of Old‐Old (QMCOO) was adopted after 2020. However, the prognostic significance of this questionnaire for the incidence of functional disability is uncertain. The current study aimed to validate the prognostic significance of the QMCOO, and to develop a simple risk score for functional disability by analyzing health insurance claims data including annual health checkup data.

Methods

This study included 111 282 older adults aged 75–90 years who did not receive long‐term care services at baseline. The study period was between the earliest day of participation in the health checkup after April 2020 and September 2022. The participants who were certified as care level 2 and higher during this period were considered as incident cases of functional disability.

Results

Within a mean follow‐up duration of 1.7 years (191 085 person‐years), 4578 functional disability cases were identified. In addition to the basic covariates, among the 15 items in the QMCOO, nine were identified as independent determinants. The probability of developing functional disability that was calculated using the model was associated with older age, male sex, underweight and poor responses to the QMCOO items. According to the weighted score based on the model, the participants was classified as functional disability probability of <1% to >45%.

Conclusions

The nine items in the QMCOO were associated with the incidence of functional disability. The weighted scoring system could be helpful for the use of the QMCOO. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2025; 25: 260–266.
“Chance and Necessity” on the Molecular Evolution of REV3 (a Catalytic Subunit of DNA Polymerase ζ)—The Dual Roles of Translesion and Neuronal Extension
Authors: Kajiwara Kagemasa , Yamada Kouichi
Published: January 2025

Catalytic subunit of DNA polymerase ζ (REV3), involved in translesion‐replication is evolutionarily conserved from yeast and plants to higher eukaryotes. However, a large intermediate domain is inserted in REV3 of humans and mice. The domain has “DUF4683” region, which is significantly similar to human neurite extension and migration factor (NEXMIF). This region was also found in REV3 of invertebrates such as Ciona intestinalis (sea squirt) … and Lingula anatina (Brachiopoda). We hypothesize foreign sequences were introduced into the Rev3 genes in the ancestral species of L. anatina, which would have gradually evolved into the DUF4683 region through overly complicated processes. Besides DUF4683, various exogenous sequences would have been inserted during the REV3 evolution. Therefore, insertion events of foreign sequences are all products of “necessity”. tBLASTn analysis of the Callorhinchus milii (elephant shark) genome with the C. milii REV3 sequence identified three neural factors (NEXMIF, NEXMIF‐like and AHDC1) in distinct positions of the genome. These factors may have differentiated from the Rev3 gene in Chondrichthyes, which had experienced two rounds of whole‐genome duplication, and may have evolved into neurite‐forming proteins in vertebrates. L. anatina has the DUF4683 C‐terminal proximal consensus (SPPRA/CWSP) in REV3. However, the consensus was not necessarily maintained in Mollusca, the closely related animal phylum of L. anatina. Just as written by Jacques Monod, we assume “chance” (mutation in DNA) and “necessity” (selection at the “organism” population level) were frequently repeated on the Rev3 in Cambrian ancestors. As a result, certain species developed the DUF4683 consensus of a neurite extension activity.
The Role of Care Paradoxes in Maintaining Precariousness: A Case Study of Australia's Aged Care Work
Authors: McEwen Celina
Published: January 2025

The paper examines why despite many inquiries and government reforms, the working conditions of aged care workers have remained precarious. The study draws on an analysis of Australian workforce survey data, government documents, and hearing transcripts from a recent Royal Commission into the sector's workforce and care practices. The results paint a complex and nuanced picture of how the government and providers rely on older or culturally and linguistically diverse women to carry out high standards of quality care with minimal worker benefits and protection while devaluing their work as unprofessional. The analysis also highlights the coexistence of four types of precariousness in aged care work: precariousness as a social category, a shared experience, a set of work practices, and management. Further, I find that a series of paradoxes rooted in cultural perceptions of care and older and/or diverse women maintain precariousness at work by constructing workers as the problem, entrenching disadvantage borne from intersectionality and shifting the burden of responsibility and part of the cost of caring for older people onto workers. I suggest that little improvement is possible until the systemic and sociocultural issues around care and the workers engaged in the transaction of care are tackled together as a whole.
Influence of Anticoagulants on Platelet Counts: A Study and Recommendations From the French Speaking Cellular Hematology Group (GFHC)
Authors: Wuilleme Soraya , Girard Sandrine , Soulard Michel , Chatelain Bernard , Etienne Elodie , Guiheneuf Eric , Geneviève Franck , Vedrenne Aurélie , Lesesve Jean François , Baccini Véronique , Bardet Valérie
Published: January 2025

Introduction

For complete blood count, ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) is universally used and has been recognized as the most robust anticoagulant. However, it may lead to pseudothrombocytopenia (PTCT), due to the formation of platelet clumps, which is currently followed by resampling on sodium citrate. Other possible anticoagulants are citrate theophylline adenosine dipyridamole (CTAD) and MgSO4. These anticoagulants were compared here for resolution of PTCT and platelet count values and stability.

Methods

Paired blood samples were used to compare the four anticoagulants. First, samples containing clumps on EDTA were compared to samples collected on sodium citrate (335), CTAD (31), or MgSO4 (160). For platelet counts, compared series were of respectively, 168, 191, and 87, paired to PTCT‐free EDTA samples. Finally, platelet count stability was evaluated over 2–24 h.

Results

MgSO4, followed by CTAD, was the most efficient to avoid platelet clump formation, while sodium citrate performed poorly. Regarding platelet count, significantly lower values were obtained with sodium citrate (p < 0.0001), with more samples (35% vs. 6.5%) below the 150 × 109/L threshold. Conversely, CTAD yielded similar values as EDTA, while higher counts were observed with MgSO4 (p = 0.008). Finally, platelet count stability began to decrease at 4 h for sodium citrate, while the other anticoagulants were stable for at least 8 h, up to 12 h for MgSO4 and 24 h for EDTA.

Conclusions

This real‐life study confirms that sodium citrate should no longer be used to improve platelet counts in patients with platelet clumps, CTAD, if available, and MgSO4 being much better alternatives.
Migrant returnees as (anti‐)migration messengers? A case of street‐level representative bureaucracy in Senegal
Authors: Glyniadaki Katerina , Ratzmann Nora , Stier Julia
Published: January 2025

International organizations and foreign‐funded NGOs run campaigns in Senegal to raise awareness of the perils of irregular migration. To increase their effectiveness, these organizations often enlist local migrant returnees to share their personal migration experiences and transmit an anti‐irregular migration message to their compatriots. This article examines whether policymakers' assumptions regarding the representativeness of migrant returnees operating as (anti‐)migration messengers in terms of shared identities corresponds to reality at the street level. It draws from theories of street‐level bureaucracy and representative bureaucracy and is based on 31 qualitative interviews with migrant returnees and experts. The study shows that migrant returnees engaged in migration information campaigns are not as representative of the local population as envisaged by policymakers, potentially impacting policy outcomes. They stand out from their compatriots in terms of skillsets and social status – partly because of the selection mechanism employed by organizations and partly because of the training and capacity‐building efforts directed at migrant returnees.
The Financial Reporting Consequences of Last Chance Earnings Management
Authors: Mayberry Michael A. , Rane Scott G.
Published: January 2025

Given its opacity and the timing of its closure, the tax expense represents a theoretically and intuitively plausible mechanism for managers to manipulate earnings to achieve performance benchmarks (i.e., last chance earnings management or LCEM). Although empirical analyses of effective tax rates are consistent with the existence of this behavior, its consequences are unclear. We investigate whether LCEM is associated with lower financial reporting quality. Contrary to our expectations, we fail to find evidence that LCEM is associated with tax‐related misstatements, tax‐related comment letters, or tax accrual quality with scaled confidence intervals reliably near zero. In cross‐sectional tests, we also fail to find a consistent association in subsamples where LCEM is more likely to represent impaired financial reporting quality. Collectively, our results should caution researchers using LCEM as a proxy for impaired financial reporting quality.