bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-term outcomes of gradual ulnar lengthening in multiple hereditary osteochondromas of the forearm with monolateral external fixator
Authors: Moein Seyed Arman , Dehghani Javad , Fereidooni Reza , Gerami Mohammad Hadi , Seifaei Asal , Ayatizadeh Seyyed Hamidreza
Published: January 2025

Hereditary multiple exostoses is an autosomal dominant genetic condition primarily affecting long bones. Forearm deformities, including wrist ulnar deviation, ulnar shortening, radial or ulnar bowing, and radial head dislocation, are common manifestations. Gradual ulnar lengthening is suggested as a viable treatment option for managing these deformities. This retrospective single-center study included 15 forearms treated with gradual ulnar lengthening using a monolateral external fixator by a single surgeon. Clinical and radiological characteristics were recorded preoperatively and during follow-ups. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test compared preoperative and postoperative radiological and clinical parameters, while McNemar’s test assessed changes in radial head dislocation or subluxation. Significant radiological improvements were observed post-treatment. Proportional ulnar length increased from a mean of 0.85 ± 0.10 preoperatively to 1.11 ± 0.03 at the last follow-up (P < 0.001). Ulnar variance decreased from a mean of 17.6 ± 5.58 mm preoperatively to 0.13 ± 1.81 mm at the last follow-up (P < 0.001), while radial bowing decreased from a mean of 0.06 ± 0.02 to 0.05 ± 0.01 at the last follow-up (P < 0.001). In addition, the radioarticular angle decreased significantly from a mean of 29.93 ± 7.34 to 20.20 ± 5.71° (P < 0.001). The incidence of radial head dislocation or subluxation decreased significantly, from 11 patients preoperatively to only one at the last follow-up. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of gradual ulnar lengthening with a monolateral external fixator in correcting forearm deformities and reducing the incidence of radial head dislocation or subluxation.
Comprehensive analysis of DNA methylation and gene expression to identify tumor suppressor genes reactivated by MLN4924 in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Guo Yuancheng , Jian Jinli , Tang Xiao , Zhao Long , Liu Bei
Published: January 2025

This study investigated whether the neddylation inhibitor MLN4924 induces aberrant DNA methylation patterns in acute myeloid leukemia and contributes to the reactivation of tumor suppressor genes. DNA methylation profiles of Kasumi-1 and KU812 acute myeloid leukemia cell lines before and after MLN4924 treatment were generated using the 850K Methylation BeadChip. RNA sequencing was used to obtain transcriptomic profiles of Kasumi-1 cells. Target genes were identified through a combined analysis of methylation and transcriptome data. Methylation-specific PCR and quantitative PCR validated the changes in methylation and expression. Prognostic analysis of target genes was performed using databases, and Pearson correlation was used to examine the relationship between methylation and expression levels. In Kasumi-1 and KU812 cells, 301 and 469 differentially methylated sites, respectively, were identified. A total of 4310 differential expression genes were detected in Kasumi-1. Combined analysis revealed that TRIM58 exhibited significant demethylation and upregulation after MLN4924 treatment, as confirmed by quantitative and methylation-specific PCR. Furthermore, database analysis revealed that both down-expression and promoter hypermethylation of TRIM58 were correlated with poor prognosis in acute myeloid leukemia. A negative correlation was observed between TRIM58 methylation and expression levels. This study suggests that MLN4924 alters DNA methylation patterns in acute myeloid leukemia and reactivates TRIM58, a potential tumor suppressor gene, through demethylation.
Daily Path Areas and Location Use During and After Cardiac Rehabilitation
Authors: Langley Jodi , Campbell Nerissa , Warburton Darren , Rhodes Ryan E. , Sweet Shane , Giacomantonio Nicholas , Rainham Daniel , Strachan Shaelyn , Saunders Travis , Blanchard Chris
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Little research has focused on the potential impact that the environment plays in shaping cardiac rehabilitation (CR) patient sedentary time (ST) and physical activity (PA). To address this, the current study generated daily path areas (DPAs) based on the locations they visited during and after they completed CR.

Methods:

Patients in CR (n = 66) completed a survey and wore an accelerometer and Global Positioning System receiver for 7 days early (first month), late (last 2 weeks of program), and 3 months after completing CR.

Results:

Individual DPAs were approximately 24 km2 at baseline and remained stable over time. Location-based analyses showed that most patients’ ST and PA time was spent at home, followed by other residential, commercial, work, and CR locations. However, the time spent in certain locations (eg, parks and recreation locations) fluctuated during and after CR by intensity.

Conclusions:

CR patient DPA was stable over time. Within this space, they primarily engaged in ST and PA at home. However, when not home, the distribution of location use varied across a number of locations that extended well beyond their neighborhoods. Therefore, proximity to home may not be a barrier for CR patients in relation to their ST and PA.
Evaluating for Health Equity in a Safety Net Hospital
Authors: Washington-Plaskett Tulani , Gilman Joshua P. , Quinn Emily , Zombeck Stephanie , Balady Gary
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Uncovering the racial/ethnic health disparities that exist within cardiovascular medicine offers potential to mitigate treatment gaps that might affect outcomes. Socioeconomic status (SES) may be a more appropriate underlying factor to assess these disparities. We aimed to evaluate whether adherence, attendance, and outcomes in cardiac rehabilitation are associated with SES in a safety net hospital.

Methods:

We analyzed 542 patients in a retrospective cohort study of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Boston Medical Center from 2016 to 2019. Enrollees had a mean age of 59.4 years, 34% were female, 42% Black, and 12% Hispanic. The zip codes of each enrollee were used to obtain their area deprivation index (ADI). The ADI reflects income, education, employment, and housing quality within a given zip code. Associations between ADI and adherence and attendance rate were evaluated while controlling for covariates. Secondary outcomes included associations of ADI with change in exercise capacity, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, weight, quality of life, nutrition, and depression scores.

Results:

We applied logistic regression to examine the association between adherence and ADI with adjustment on the covariates. The attendance rate was analyzed with negative binomial regression with percent of sessions attended as prescribed as a dependent variable and adjusted on the same covariates. The primary outcome revealed no association for ADI with adherence to cardiac rehabilitation (OR = 0.91: 95% CI, 0.74-1.12) or attendance rate (RR = 0.91: 95% CI, 0.80-1.04). Utilizing multiple linear regression, secondary outcomes improved among patients regardless of ADI.

Conclusions:

We found equity in our cardiac rehabilitation program outcomes despite SES.
A novel suture-free nephroplication with 4D-printed biodegradable bag for giant hydronephrosis: initial experience from hydromechanics and clinical application
Authors: Zhang Fuxun , Jiao Yong , Zhang Lele , Meng Zijie , Xiong Yang , Ji Yunhua , Luo Zhirong , Xue Qi , Guo Xuyan , Tan Xiao , Chen Lei , He Jiankang , Zhang Bo
Published: January 2025

Background:

Giant hydronephrosis as an rare condition is often caused by chronic ureteral obstruction. Nephroplication is a crucial procedure to improve urinary drainage in the kidney-sparing surgery for patients with giant hydronephrosis. However, traditional nephroplication via suturing kidney has technical difficulty and many potential risks.

Materials and methods:

We devised a novel suture-free nephroplication by using a 4 dimension (4D)-printed biodegradable bag. Structures of the bag were observed by a scanning electron microscope. Hydromechanical analysis was conducted to explore the mechanism of this novel surgery. Patients with giant hydronephrosis caused by ureteropelvic junction obstruction (UPJO) were recruited. Computed tomography (CT) and renal emission computed tomography (ECT) were used to evaluate the renal morphology and function in preoperative examination and follow-up.

Results:

4D-printed biodegradable bag was fabricated using polycaprolactone (PCL). Hydromechanical analysis indicated that reduced space of renal pelvis after the nephroplication could improve urinary drainage. Finally, three patients were recruited, and underwent this novel suture-free nephroplication successfully. Postoperative CT and renal ECT performed at three months after the operation revealed significant recovery of affected kidney. Among them, the glomerular filtration rate (GFR) of affected kidneys in two patients increased from less than 10 mL/min to 13.11 mL/min and 14.30 mL/min respectively, indicating the significant recovery of split renal function.

Conclusions:

This is a novel suture-free nephroplication for treating benign giant hydronephrosis, in which the 4D-printed biodegradable bag simplified and standardized surgical procedures significantly. Initial experience from clinical application is encouraging, suggesting that the nephrectomy for patients with benign giant hydronephrosis might be avoided. Future investigations on long-term outcomes of this new surgery are warranted.
Systematic Review of COVID-19 and COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Myocarditis in Athletes: Incidence, Diagnosis, Prognosis, and Return-to-Play Principles
Authors: Mahneva Olena , Fakhoury Tamara R. , Hanspal Sukhwinder Singh , Gonzalez Velazquez Juan O. , Patel Nikhil , Henzlova Milena J.
Published: January 2025

Objective:

The purpose of this systematic review is to evaluate the original peer-reviewed studies on athletes who developed myocarditis after coronavirus disease (COVID-19) infection or after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. Both entities likely have an immunologic component. We discuss elite, professional, college, and adolescent athletes. The athletes are generally young and healthy, representing a distinctive population group that differs from the general population. This review includes diagnosis of myocarditis, incidence, complications, prognosis, and return-to-play guidance for sports medicine clinicians and coaches.

Data Sources:

We surveyed the PUBMED, Embase, and Web of Science databases for the relevant peer-reviewed articles in the English language published from the onset of the pandemic until April 2023. Included were original observational studies and case series. Excluded were individual case reports and a small series with incomplete data. The resulting search yielded 30 original articles.

Main Results:

Reported myocardial abnormalities in athletes were rare after COVID-19 infection and even less frequent after COVID-19 mRNA vaccination. True incidence, however, may be higher because of under-reporting and frequent asymptomatic presentation. Male gender was prevalent for both manifestations; postvaccination myocarditis occurrence was the highest after the second vaccine dose. Diagnostic and return-to-play algorithms were developed and should be adopted and followed.

Conclusions:

The risk of myocarditis from COVID-19 infection and COVID-19 mRNA vaccination is very low. The long-term prognosis and evolution of the observed cardiac magnetic resonance abnormalities are currently unknown. Although inferences can be made from the published data, COVID-19 and postvaccine myocarditis in athletes may represent only a small fraction of the true incidence of those who have been affected worldwide and not evaluated.
Effect of low birth weight and preterm delivery on the development of childhood celiac disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis on observational studies
Authors: Bahardoust Mansour , Delpisheh Ali , Rashidi Shabnam , Haghmoradi Meisam , Goodarzy Babak , Jouybari Reza Mahdian
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

Whether low birth weight (LBW) and preterm delivery (PD) are associated with the risk of developing celiac disease (CD) in children remains unclear. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the association between LBW and PD with CD development in children.

Recent findings

We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar databases based on the Mesh terms to find observational studies that investigated the association of LBW and PD with CD development in children up to July 18, 2024. This systematic review was based on the PRISMA 2020 checklist. Heterogeneity between studies was assessed with Cochran's Q and I
2 tests. Meta-regression was used to control heterogeneity. Publication bias was evaluated using Egger's test. Finally, ten studies involving 3 434 290 participants were included. Based on 10 studies, the pooled prevalence of LBW was 6.4 per 1000 children with CD. A pooled estimate of ten studies did not show a significant relationship between LBW and the risk of developing CD in children [odds ratio (OR): 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.76, 1.16, I2: 67.9%, P: 0.001). Also, the pooled estimate of six studies did not show a significant relationship between PD and the risk of developing CD in children (OR: 0.98, 95% CI: 0.81, 1.16, I
2: 67.5%, P: 0.001).

We found no evidence of an association between LBW and PD with the risk of developing CD in children.
Red blood cell changes due to cancer and cancer treatments: a narrative review
Authors: Finnigan Deirdre , Hajjaj Omar I. , Othman Maha
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

To date, there is relatively limited research investigating changes in red blood cells (RBCs), particularly qualitative changes, in cancer patients and cancer patients receiving treatment. These changes may be important in better understanding cancer-associated anemia, which is the most prevalent hematological disorder in cancer patients with wide-ranging implications on patient care and quality of life. This review aims to summarize available evidence regarding qualitative and quantitative changes in RBCs in individuals with cancer prior to treatment and in patients undergoing treatment.

Recent findings

The most commonly reported changes in RBCs in cancer patients were increased mean corpuscular volume (MCV) and decreased hemoglobin, RBC count, and hematocrit. There were increased lipid peroxidation products and decreased antioxidants. There were increased polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) and decreased monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs) and saturated fatty acids (FAs). Additionally, RBC shape alterations with various atypical morphologies, membrane structure abnormalities, and impaired fluidity were also reported. These and various other reported findings are discussed in depth.

There are several reported quantitative and qualitative RBC changes in individuals with cancer, with some studies exhibiting conflicting results. Further research is needed to solidify the data and to better understand hematological-associated comorbidities in those patients.
Parapharyngeal space metastasis from squamous cell carcinoma: indications and limits of different surgical approaches
Authors: Fermi Matteo , Liberale Carlotta , Molteni Gabriele
Published: January 2025

Purpose of review

The aim of this review is to investigate the most suitable surgical approach to managing parapharyngeal space (PPS) squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) metastasis.

Recent findings

SCC metastasis in PPS are extremely rare. The PPS itself is a complex anatomical area, requiring extensive surgical experience and various surgical approaches for effective management. Several authors have attempted to systematize the surgical approaches to the PPS based on the anatomical location and histological nature of the lesions. However, there are currently few studies in the literature on the specific management of SCC metastases in the PPS, as these lesions are extremely rare.

The treatment of SCC metastases in the PPS must be determined based on the individual patient. If the patient is a candidate for surgery, the surgical approach should be chosen based on the location of the metastases and must ensure a sufficiently wide surgical corridor to allow for as complete a resection as possible. To date, the surgical approach that best meets these requirements is the transcervical transparotid approach. With new technologies, including the use of robotics and endoscopy, surgery can become increasingly less invasive while maintaining the wide exposure provided by open surgical procedures.
Upper Lip Single-Point Technique for Lip Reshaping: A Safe, Minimalistic Approach in Over 500 Patients—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Vitale Massimo , Redaelli Alessio , Lazzarotto Andrea , Dell’Avanzato Roberto , Wan Jovian , Yi Kyu-Ho
Published: January 2025

Lip augmentation has become one of the most popular esthetic procedures globally, driven by societal standards that equate full lips with youth and sensuality. While young individuals often seek volume enhancement for lip beautification, older adults pursue lip rejuvenation to counter aging effects, such as volume loss, fine lines, and reduced definition. A range of techniques has been developed to meet these esthetic goals, but achieving natural and safe results remains a challenge. This study evaluates the single-point technique (SPT), a novel approach for lip augmentation that utilizes a single injection point to reshape and enhance the lips while prioritizing vascular safety. Single-point technique applies linear retrograde injections to project, define, and evert the lips with minimal trauma. Two cases of M-shaped lips demonstrate the effectiveness of SPT in achieving balanced, esthetically pleasing results with lasting effects beyond 6 months. Through a detailed review of lip anatomy, filler selection, and injection techniques, this paper presents SPT as a refined approach for practitioners seeking optimal, natural lip enhancement outcomes.
Postoperative Outcomes in Condylar Hyperplasia: Proportional Condylectomy Versus Orthognathic Surgery
Authors: Cohen Adir , Rushinek Heli , Shhadeh Amjad , Alterman Michael , Casap Nardy
Published: January 2025

The management of patients with facial asymmetry caused by condylar hyperplasia remains a subject of ongoing debate. This study compared active patients with unilateral condylar hyperplasia (UCH) who underwent proportional condylectomy with ceased patients with UCH who underwent orthognathic surgery, evaluating esthetics, function, and satisfaction. The retrospective study included 2 groups: group A, with 15 active patients with UCH who underwent proportional condylectomy, and group B, with 22 ceased patients with UCH who underwent orthognathic surgery. Facial, occlusal, and skeletal changes were analyzed using photographic and radiologic records, along with a satisfaction questionnaire. Both groups showed significant improvements. Group A’s chin deviation, dental midline, and occlusal plane canting improved by 58.5% (P < 0.001), 56.5% (P < 0.001), and 70.0% (P < 0.001), respectively. Group B’s corresponding improvements were 60.1% (P < 0.001), 79.4% (P < 0.001), and 64.9% (P < 0.001). Patient satisfaction was high in both groups, without significant differences in postoperative results, esthetics, and functional satisfaction. In conclusion, Proportional condylectomy for UCH achieves comparable outcomes with orthognathic surgery in facial, occlusal, and skeletal improvements and patient satisfaction.
How should we bend the curve of biodiversity loss to build a just and sustainable future?
Authors: Bridle Jon , Balmford Andrew , Durant Sarah M. , Gregory Richard D. , Pearson Richard , Purvis Andy
Published: January 2025

Current rates of habitat and biodiversity loss, and the threat they pose to ecological and economic productivity, would be considered a global emergency even if they were not occurring during a period of rapid anthropogenic climate change. Diversity at all levels of biological organization, both within and among species, and across genomes and communities, is critical for the resilience of the world’s ecosystems in the face of such change. However, it remains an urgent scientific challenge to understand how biodiversity underpins these ecological outputs, how patterns of biodiversity are being affected by current threats, and how and where such biodiversity contributes most directly to human economies, well-being and social justice. In addition, even with such scientific understanding, there is a pressing need for societies to incorporate biodiversity protection into their economies and governance, and to stop subsidizing the loss of humanity’s future prosperity for short-term private benefit. We highlight key issues and ways forward in these areas, inspired by the research and career of Dame Georgina Mace FRS, and by our discussions during the Royal Society meeting of June 2023.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.
Intertwined people–nature relations are central to nature-based adaptation to climate change
Authors: Locatelli Bruno , Lavorel Sandra , Colloff Matthew J. , Crouzat Emilie , Bruley Enora , Fedele Giacomo , Grêt-Regamey Adrienne , Plieninger Tobias , Andersson Erik , Abbott Mick , Butler James , Devisscher Tahia , Djoudi Houria , Dubo Titouan , González-García Alberto , Karim Paulina G. , Múnera-Roldán Claudia , Neyret Margot , Quétier Fabien , Salliou Nicolas , Walters Gretchen
Published: January 2025

Adaptation to climate change is a social–ecological process: it is not solely a result of natural processes or human decisions but emerges from multiple relations within social systems, within ecological systems and between them. We propose a novel analytical framework to evaluate social–ecological relations in nature-based adaptation, encompassing social (people–people), ecological (nature–nature) and social–ecological (people–nature) relations. Applying this framework to 25 case studies, we analyse the associations among these relations and identify archetypes of social–ecological adaptation. Our findings revealed that adaptation actions with more people–nature relations mobilize more social and ecological relations. We identified four archetypes, with distinct modes of adaptation along a gradient of people–nature interaction scores, summarized as: (i) nature control; (ii) biodiversity-based; (iii) ecosystem services-based; and (iv) integrated approaches. This study contributes to a nuanced understanding of nature-based adaptation, highlighting the importance of integrating diverse relations across social and ecological systems. Our findings offer valuable insights for informing the design and implementation of adaptation strategies and policies.

This article is part of the discussion meeting issue ‘Bending the curve towards nature recovery: building on Georgina Mace's legacy for a biodiverse future’.
Higher-order EEG microstate syntax and surrogate testing
Authors: von Wegner Frederic , Hermann Gesine , Tödt Inken , Todtenhaupt Inga Karin , Laufs Helmut
Published: January 2025

Higher-order syntax properties of EEG microstate sequences offer insight into the transition dynamics of functional brain networks. We here define higher-order syntax as microstate sequence properties that are not explained by the first-order transition matrix, and we postulate three requirements that surrogate data should fulfill to provide a null hypothesis for higher-order syntax tests. We then compare two general approaches to surrogate data generation that have been used in microstate research, (a) surrogates from a first-order Markov chain model, and, (b) surrogates obtained from sequence shuffling. There are two different ways of representing microstate sequences, and syntax analyses can be applied to both, continuous microstate sequences, where each time sample is assigned the nearest microstate cluster, or to jump sequences which record only non-identical transitions by removing adjacent duplicates. We show that jump sequences have at least first-order syntax properties, whereas continuous sequences allow for zero-order and first-order surrogates. Markov chain generated surrogates fulfill the three requirements, i.e. they preserve the microstate distribution and transition matrix, and have no higher-order properties. Jump sequence shuffling, on the other hand, yields first-order surrogates whose first-order parameters are markedly different from the original sequence. Using a large open-access resting-state EEG dataset we show that jump sequence shuffling almost certainly produces microstate word probabilities that are significantly different from first-order expected word frequencies, erroneously indicating higher-order syntax properties. Markov chain surrogates reproduce the expected word probabilities of first-order sequences and correctly reject higher-order syntax properties in these cases. We conclude that jump sequence shuffling does not produce adequate surrogates for higher-order syntax investigations. The proposed Markov chain generative method for surrogate data synthesis is computationally efficient and allows the generation of surrogate sequences of arbitrary length, whereas shuffling can lead to sequences that are shorter than the original sequence and have variable length. Sample code in Python and MATLAB is provided.
Intrahousehold dynamics in South Asia: understanding the relationships among women’s empowerment, task sharing, women’s decision making, and diets
Authors: Kumar Neha , Quisumbing Agnes , Manohar Swetha , Banerjee Archis , Gupta Shivani , Chauhan Alka , Patwardhan Sharvari , Koirala Uma ,   TAFSSA collaborators
Published: January 2025

Despite the growing evidence on women’s roles in agriculture and nutrition, interlinkages between women’s empowerment, gendered task allocation, and nutrition are rarely studied together. Using data from the Transforming Agrifood Systems in South Asia (TAFSSA), a household survey that used a “plate to farm” assessment approach in three countries (Bangladesh, India and Nepal), the paper investigates the associations between women’s empowerment, gendered task allocation, women’s decision-making, and women’s diets. Our findings reveal complex and context-specific differences in associations between task allocation, decision-making and women’s empowerment. While agency in women’s decision-making is positively associated with empowerment in all three country contexts, associations between gendered task allocation and empowerment vary. The share of tasks performed by females, particularly in agriculture and food preparation) is positively associated with women’s empowerment, but the proportion of tasks shared equally between males and females does not necessarily empower women. Gendered task allocation and women’s empowerment are not significantly associated with women’s diets in the three countries, owing to the greater importance of broader socio-economic and context-specific factors such as wealth, education, and regional factors in explaining the variance in dietary outcomes. These findings highlight the need to take a holistic approach that addresses gender norms and household resource constraints to improving women’s empowerment, while also addressing local accessibility/availability of nutritious foods to enhance the quality of women’s diets.
Hippocampal-cortical connectivity relates to inter-individual differences and training gains in distinguishing similar memories
Authors: Iliopoulos P. , Güsten J. , Molloy E. N. , Cichy R. M. , Krohn F. , Maass A. , Düzel E.
Published: January 2025

Mnemonic discrimination (MD) is the ability to distinguish current experiences from similar memories. Research on the brain correlates of MD has focused on how regional neural responses are linked to MD. Here we go beyond this approach to investigate inter-regional functional connectivity patterns related to MD, its inter-individual variability and training-related improvement. Based on prior work we focused on medial temporal lobe (MTL), prefrontal cortex (PFC) and visual regions. We used fMRI to determine how functional connectivity patterns between these regions are related to MD before and after 2-weeks of web-based cognitive training. We identified a functional connectivity signature involving MTL-PFC-visual areas during successful MD. We found that hippocampal-PFC connectivity was negatively associated with interindividual variability in MD performance across two different tasks. Hippocampal-PFC connectivity decrease was also linked to interindividual variability in post-training MD improvement. Additionally, training led to increased connectivity from the lateral occipital cortex to the occipital pole area. Our results point to a hippocampal-PFC connectivity pattern which is a reliable, task-invariant, marker of MD performance. This pattern is further related to MD training gains providing causal evidence for its relevance in distinguishing similar memories. Overall, we show that hippocampal-PFC connectivity constitutes a neural resource for MD that enables training-related improvements and could be targeted in future research to enhance cognition.
Toward a 2D Local Implementation of Quantum Low-Density Parity-Check Codes
Authors: Berthusen Noah , Devulapalli Dhruv , Schoute Eddie , Childs Andrew M. , Gullans Michael J. , Gorshkov Alexey V. , Gottesman Daniel
Published: January 2025

Geometric locality is an important theoretical and practical factor for quantum low-density parity-check (qLDPC) codes that affects code performance and ease of physical realization. For device architectures restricted to two-dimensional (2D) local gates, naively implementing the high-rate codes suitable for low-overhead fault-tolerant quantum computing incurs prohibitive overhead. In this work, we present an error-correction protocol built on a bilayer architecture that aims to reduce operational overheads when restricted to 2D local gates by measuring some generators less frequently than others. We investigate the family of bivariate-bicycle qLDPC codes and show that they are well suited for a parallel syndrome-measurement scheme using fast routing with local operations and classical communication (LOCC). Through circuit-level simulations, we find that in some parameter regimes, bivariate-bicycle codes implemented with this protocol have logical error rates comparable to the surface code while using fewer physical qubits.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Does visiting a traditional art and handicraft market enhance well-being? Exploring visitor experience through the lens of self-determination theory
Authors: Singh Priyanka , Lama Rinzing , Srivastava Harshita
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The accelerating popularity of the art and handicraft sector in recent years has attracted notable academic attention. Several studies examined the potential of this sector to generate positive outcomes for the associated communities. However, what is currently missing from the line of scholarly discussion is a comprehensive understanding of the experiential value of such marketplaces for consumers. The present study, therefore, seeks to explore the dimensions of visitor experience at traditional art and handicraft markets and identify how such marketplaces facilitate the fulfillment of an individual’s deeply embedded psychological needs and promote well-being through positive emotions and self-empowerment.

Design/methodology/approach

Study data was obtained through semi-structured interviews, field visits and on-site observations conducted at the Dilli Haat, INA, Delhi, India. The conceptual framework of self-determination theory (SDT) is employed to analyze the perspectives of the visit experience of 35 visitors who arrived at Dilli-Haat.

Findings

Findings indicate that visitors’ interest in participating in the traditional art and handicraft market was influenced by their fundamental psychological needs. By offering an opportunity to experience autonomy, competency and relatedness, such marketplaces can contribute to generating positive emotions and lead toward visitor well-being.

Originality/value

Study outcomes added a new perspective on the less studied subject of traditional art and handicraft market consumption. Findings contribute to enhancing the understanding of visitors’ experiences and the role of the traditional art and handicraft market in the context of well-being. Further, the current study highlights the influence of market attributes on visitor satisfaction and positive experience and offers useful implications for the efficient performance of such marketplaces.
Enhancing freight logistics: overcoming barriers and driving sustainable growth with an integrated grey Delphi DEMATEL approach
Authors: Gupta Srikant , Gupta Neha
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to enhance freight logistics by overcoming barriers and driving sustainable growth through an integrated approach. It focuses on the critical role of efficient freight logistics in sustaining economic growth and addresses the challenges hindering the sector’s efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employs the grey Delphi method for a comprehensive literature review and expert evaluation to identify significant barriers in India’s freight logistics sector. Subsequently, the grey decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) method establishes causal relationships among these barriers to provide insights into their interconnectedness.

Findings

The findings of the study highlight the importance of addressing these barriers through sustainable strategies and innovative solutions. The study recommends the adoption of green transportation technologies, collaborative efforts among stakeholders and the development of modern logistics facilities. By mitigating the adverse effects of logistics operations on the environment and society, these strategies aim to improve overall efficiency and competitiveness in the freight logistics sector.

Research limitations/implications

This study is primarily based on feedback from ten seasoned experts; however, incorporating input from a broader range of experts would provide deeper insights and perspectives.

Originality/value

This study offers a comprehensive analysis of barriers and opportunities for sustainable growth in India’s freight logistics sector. The study contributes valuable evidence-based insights and practical recommendations, serving as a guide for policymakers, industry stakeholders and practitioners seeking to enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of the country’s freight logistics operations.
Perceived employability among European workers: the impact of human capital, training practices and national values
Authors: Cuéllar-Molina Deybbi , García-Cabrera Antonia M. , Lucia-Casademunt Ana M. , Gutiérrez-Pérez Francisco J.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Based on the conservation of resources (COR) theory, this paper aims to explore how individual factors, organizational training practices and national values of masculinity and uncertainty avoidance influence workers’ perceived employability.

Design/methodology/approach

A hierarchical linear model tested the proposed hypotheses among a sample of 26,555 workers from 29 European countries, obtained through the 6th European Work Conditions Survey.

Findings

Results show the influence of individual factors (i.e. level of education, work experience at the current organization, training paid for by employees, etc.), the organization’s training practices and national cultural values on the European workers’ perceived employability. Post hoc analysis also shows that current “person-job fit” moderates the influence of several individual factors, organizational practices and cultural values on perceived employability.

Research limitations/implications

It would be interesting to replicate this study in non-European countries to better understand the effect of national cultural values on perceived employability. Future research should also consider a longitudinal approach to better capture the dynamics of employability over time.

Practical implications

As a complex and increasingly interesting phenomenon in the academic literature on management, this study contributes a deeper understanding of how several factors influence perceived employability. Individuals and organizations should invest in training and development programs that enhance employability, considering individual and cultural factors. Additionally, this research provides insights for policymakers and practitioners aiming to strengthen workforce development and adaptability in Europe.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive framework based on a multilevel approach (individual, organizational and national factors) to understand the antecedents of perceived employability among individuals already employed.
The effects of green skills and defensive routines on open innovation in textile industry SMEs
Authors: Cegarra-Navarro Juan-Gabriel , Martínez-Martínez Aurora , Cegarra-Leiva David , Sánchez-Vidal María Eugenia
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Being open-minded means listening to others’ proposals, even if they go against our criteria. Although having an open mindset is the key to “open innovation,” we find that many managers are reluctant to make sustainable changes, either because they prefer to stick to what they know and prefer to stay in their comfort zone or just because they are embarrassed to assume errors or ignorance in certain issues of an environmental nature. The study aims to examine the role of green skills in overcoming defensive rigidity and defensive embarrassment barriers that hinder open innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire-based survey was administered to 208 SMEs in the Spanish textile industry. The data collected were processed and analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling technique (PLS-SEM) and SmartPLS 4.

Findings

The study reveals that green skills significantly contribute to the development of open innovation and the mitigation of defensive routines among managers. This indicates that equipping managers with green skills can reduce their defensive rigidity and embarrassment, thereby fostering a more open and innovative organizational culture.

Originality/value

This research is original in its focus on the Spanish textile industry and its exploration of the specific psychological barriers that managers face in adopting sustainable innovations. By highlighting the importance of green skills, it provides a novel perspective on overcoming defensive routines to promote open innovation.
How to promote co-production of neighborhood regeneration in China? An evolutionary game approach to government and resident-initiated projects
Authors: Zhuang Taozhi , Ji Haojie , Wang Ying , Wu Hongjuan , Zeng Meiling
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Globally, co-production is of great significance in promoting neighborhood regeneration. However, in the Chinese context, characterized by a governance system with strong government discourse power and a tradition of passive public participation, co-production has faced significant challenges. To address issues, this paper aims to deeply understand the co-production behaviors and strategy choices of local governments and residents in the co-produced neighborhood regeneration.

Design/methodology/approach

An evolutionary game approach was utilized as the research method to analyze the interest interactions between the two parties, the differences and similarities in strategy choices and the influencing factors in government and resident-initiated project types, respectively. Chongqing was selected as the case area for empirical analysis, with data derived from project materials and in-depth interviews.

Findings

This study revealed dynamic interactions between local governments and residents, significant differences between the two project types regarding co-production levels, the positive role of residents' perceived loss and the effect of marginal benefits on critical influencing factors.

Originality/value

Drawing upon co-production theory, this paper elucidates how different levels of co-production are implemented and highlights the differences between the two types of neighborhood regeneration projects within governance systems characterized by strong state discourse power and a lack of public participation tradition. It addresses current issues and provides critical references for government policymakers and urban planners to make informed decisions and promote co-produced neighborhood rehabilitation projects.
Consumer enchantment through everyday consumption
Authors: Morais Isabela Carvalho de , Brito Eliane Pereira Zamith
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate consumer enchantment through everyday consumption, focusing on how individuals seek virtue, reason and a sense of purpose in their consumption practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This seven-year study was performed using a multimethod approach. Data collection involved netnography, participant observation, introspection and in-depth interviews with consumers and technical experts, resulting in extensive qualitative data analysis of craft beauty product consumption.

Findings

Despite external constraints, consumers exercise discretion in their choices, seeking to achieve their ideal selves and full potential through their consumption practices. They prioritise personal health and sustainability, rather than pursuing material satisfaction, leading to enchantment. Craftsmanship plays a significant role in offering unexpected outcomes, symbolic meaning and fostering an affective connection with materials and processes.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to consumption studies by distinguishing between hedonic consumption, rooted in sensory pleasure, and eudaimonic enchantment, which emphasises personal fulfilment and ethical engagement. This study expands the understanding of consumer enchantment associated with everyday consumption practices.

Practical implications

Organisations should prioritise transparency in production processes, ingredient sourcing and formulations to align with consumer demands for ethical consumption and sustainability. By incorporating elements of craft consumption into their offerings, businesses can enhance consumer experiences, support consumer well-being and foster enduring relationships with those who value authenticity and sustainability.

Originality/value

By exploring consumer values, aspirations and involvement in the craftsmanship of everyday products, this study uncovers an underexplored path to consumer enchantment. The authors show how individuals, in their pursuit of self-development, achieve states of enchantment by engaging with the eudaimonic aspects of life, particularly in the consumption of crafted products.
The impact of Hofstede’s dimensions on the CSR-firm performance relationship in common law countries before and during the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Lajnef Karima , Ellouz Siwar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore how different Hofstede cultural dimensions moderate the impact of corporate social performance (CSR) on firm performance, both before and during the COVID-19 crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

This study aims to examine how Hofstede’s cultural dimensions influence the CSR-firm performance relationship, using data from 71,893 observations across 4,229 firms in common law countries from 2006–2022.

Findings

The study initially found that CSR investments negatively impacted firm performance both before and during the COVID-19 crisis. However, further analysis revealed that cultural dimensions acted as moderators, influencing this relationship. This suggests that cultural factors significantly affect how CSR initiatives impact a company’s performance, particularly during crises.

Originality/value

This study examines the relationship between CSR and firm financial performance through Hofstede’s cultural dimensions in common law countries, both before and during the COVID-19 crisis. It highlights the critical role of cultural factors in shaping the effectiveness of CSR initiatives across different economic conditions. The findings provide valuable implications for businesses and policymakers, suggesting that CSR strategies should be adapted to cultural contexts, especially in times of crisis.
Impact of founder controls on digital transformation: evidence from listed family firms in China
Authors: He Qiuqin , González-Cruz Tomás , Muñoz-de-Prat Javier , Montesinos-Sansaloni Eduard
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Digital transformation is the key for family firms to gain a competitive advantage in the digital economy. This paper empirically examines the effect of founder control on family firms’ digital transformation from the perspectives of risk-taking and founders’ power.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses an unbalanced panel dataset to test the hypotheses using a sample of Chinese A-share listed family firms from 2010 to 2022.

Findings

Compared to non-founder-controlled firms, founder-controlled family firms are more capable of driving digital transformation and only facilitate substantive transformation rather than symbolic transformation. Mechanism analysis reveals that founder control is associated with a higher inclination for risk-taking and higher power, which leads to a greater willingness and ability to facilitate digital transformation. Heterogeneity analysis indicates that founder control is particularly advantageous for promoting substantive digital transformation in family firms without state capital participation, second-generation involvement and weak Confucian cultural embeddedness.

Originality/value

To study how family control affects digital transformation, this article splits family enterprises into founder and non-founder control. This study divides digital transformation into substantive and symbolic paths, each with distinctive objectives. This study improves the understanding of family enterprise digital transformation processes and provides policy insights for their digital evolution.
Lesson study enhancing pre-service teachers’ learning in STEM education
Authors: Baptista Mónica , Conceição Teresa , Filipe Josina
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This research aims to examine the pre-service teachers’ learning when using STEM tasks with middle school students in a lesson study.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopted a qualitative methodology with an interpretative orientation. The participants are three pre-service teachers involved in a lesson study that took place in a curricular unit of a master’s program in physics and chemistry teaching. Data were collected through observation and written reflections.

Findings

This lesson study, conducted as part of initial teacher training, allowed pre-service teachers to deepen their understanding regarding students’ difficulties when engaged in a STEM task involving prototype construction. It also enabled them to learn about the engineering design process and the integration of the four STEM areas. Reflecting with peers and educators on the research lesson, taught by the cooperating teacher, and on the results allowed them to develop knowledge about the use of STEM tasks.

Originality/value

This research highlighted the importance of introducing STEM education in the initial teacher training. Specifically, this research contributed to the scarce studies on lesson studies with pre-service teachers that focus specifically on the use of STEM tasks.