bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proximal survival analysis to handle dependent right censoring
Authors: Ying Andrew
Published: May 2024

Many epidemiological and clinical studies aim to analyse a time-to-event endpoint. A common complication is right censoring. In some cases, right censoring occurs when subjects are still surviving after the study terminates or move out of the study area. In such cases, right censoring is typically treated as independent or noninformative. This assumption can be further relaxed to conditional independent censoring by leveraging possibly time-varying covariate information, if available, and assuming censoring and failure time are independent within covariate strata. In yet other instances, events may be censored by other competing events like death and are associated with censoring possibly through prognoses. Realistically, measured covariates can rarely capture all such associations with absolute certainty. In cases of dependent censoring, covariate measurements are often, at best, proxies of underlying prognoses. In this article, we establish a nonparametric identification framework by formally admitting that conditional independent censoring may fail in practice and accounting for covariate measurements as imperfect proxies of underlying association. The framework suggests adaptive estimators, and we provide generic assumptions under which they are consistent, asymptotically normal, and doubly robust. We examine the finite-sample performance of our proposed estimators via a Monte Carlo simulation and apply them to the SEER-Medicare dataset.
Clinical utility of anti-Ro52 antibody confirmation in anti-MDA5 antibody-positive dermatomyositis: A case report
Authors: Kodera Hitoshi , Hirano Reina , Akiyama Masahiro , Matsumoto Yoshifuji
Published: May 2024

This case report highlights dermatomyositis (DM) characterised by the concurrent presence of anti-melanoma differentiation-associated protein 5 (anti-MDA5) and anti-Ro52 antibodies. A 64-year-old woman initially presented with erythema on the palms, which later spread to the dorsum of the hands, followed by involvement of the face, forehead, and upper eyelids. The patient reported joint pain, fatigue, and dyspnea. Physical examination revealed characteristic cutaneous manifestations, including heliotrope rash and Gottron’s sign, accompanied by skin ulceration and muscle weakness. Blood tests showed elevated levels of creatine phosphokinase and C-reactive protein. A high-resolution computed tomography (HRCT) scan revealed interstitial lung disease (ILD) with an organising pneumonia (OP) pattern. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) confirmed the presence of myositis. Autoantibody analysis revealed concurrent positivity for both anti-MDA5 and anti-Ro52 antibodies. At the time of diagnosis, she had no respiratory impairment, but had an elevated C-reactive protein and high levels of anti-MDA5 antibody. She was started on triple combination therapy with glucocorticoids, cyclophosphamide, and tacrolimus. She had worsening oxygenation and elevated ferritin during the first weeks of treatment, but then her symptoms improved. Early detection of a co-positive anti-Ro52 antibody led to early initiation of triple combination therapy and a good prognosis.
Calcium pyrophosphate crystal arthritis associated with immune checkpoint inhibitor successfully treated with intra-articular glucocorticoid: A case report
Authors: Abe Kazuya , Iwamoto Taro , Ikeda Kei , Sugiyama Takahiro , Furuta Shunsuke , Saito Go , Wakabayashi Hanae , Nakajima Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) sometimes induce immune-related adverse events (irAEs), and arthritis is one of the irAE symptoms. Recently, crystal-induced arthritis, such as calcium pyrophosphate (CPP) crystal deposition disease and gout, has been reported to occur after ICI administration. However, the distinction between ICI-associated crystal arthritis and ICI-induced non-crystal arthritis is difficult because their symptoms are similar. Besides, optimal treatment for ICI-associated crystal arthritis has not been established. Here, we report a patient who developed CPP crystal arthritis twice after pembrolizumab (ICI) administration and was successfully treated with intra-articular glucocorticoid injection. He suffered arthritis and acute interstitial nephritis simultaneously after ICI administration. Musculoskeletal ultrasound of his affected joint suggests that his arthritis was crystal-induced arthritis, and arthrocentesis detected CPP crystal in synovial fluid. Thus, we diagnosed his arthritis as ICI-associated crystal arthritis. Therefore, our case encourages the use of musculoskeletal ultrasound in patients with arthritis after treatment with ICI because it may distinguish between ICI-associated crystal arthritis and ICI-induced non-crystal arthritis. Besides, ICI-associated crystal arthritis could be treatable by intra-articular glucocorticoid injection.
A NAC transcription factor represses a module associated with xyloglucan content and regulates aluminum tolerance
Authors: Li Su , Yang Ji Bo , Li Jia Qi , Huang Jing , Shen Ren Fang , Zeng Da Li , Zhu Xiao Fang
Published: May 2024

The transcriptional regulation of aluminum (Al) tolerance in plants is largely unknown, although Al toxicity restricts agricultural yields in acidic soils. Here, we identified a NAM, ATAF1/2, and cup-shaped cotyledon 2 (NAC) transcription factor that participates in Al tolerance in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). Al substantially induced the transcript and protein levels of ANAC070, and loss-of-function mutants showed remarkably increased Al sensitivity, implying a beneficial role of ANAC070 in plant tolerance to Al toxicity. Further investigation revealed that more Al accumulated in the roots of anac070 mutants, especially in root cell walls, accompanied by a higher hemicellulose and xyloglucan level, implying a possible interaction between ANAC070 and genes that encode proteins responsible for the modification of xyloglucan, including xyloglucan endo-transglycosylase/hydrolase (XTH) or ANAC017. Yeast 1-hybrid analysis revealed a potential interaction between ANAC070 and ANAC017, but not for other XTHs. Furthermore, dual-luciferase reporter assay, RT-qPCR, and GUS analysis revealed that ANAC070 could directly repress the transcript levels of ANAC017, and knockout of ANAC017 in the anac070 mutant partially restored its Al sensitivity phenotype, indicating that ANAC070 contributes to Al tolerance mechanisms other than suppression of ANAC017 expression. Further analysis revealed that the core transcription factor SENSITIVE TO PROTON RHIZOTOXICITY 1 (STOP1) and its target genes, which control Al tolerance in Arabidopsis, may also be involved in ANAC070-regulated Al tolerance. In summary, we identified a transcription factor, ANAC070, that represses the ANAC017-XTH31 module to regulate Al tolerance in Arabidopsis.
D-ꞵ-hydroxybutyrate stabilizes hippocampal CA3-CA1 circuit during acute insulin resistance
Authors: Kula Bartosz , Antal Botond , Weistuch Corey , Gackière Florian , Barre Alexander , Velado Victor , Hubbard Jeffrey M , Kukley Maria , Mujica-Parodi Lilianne R , Smith Nathan A
Published: May 2024

The brain primarily relies on glycolysis for mitochondrial respiration but switches to alternative fuels such as ketone bodies (KBs) when less glucose is available. Neuronal KB uptake, which does not rely on glucose transporter 4 (GLUT4) or insulin, has shown promising clinical applicability in alleviating the neurological and cognitive effects of disorders with hypometabolic components. However, the specific mechanisms by which such interventions affect neuronal functions are poorly understood. In this study, we pharmacologically blocked GLUT4 to investigate the effects of exogenous KB D-ꞵ-hydroxybutyrate (D-ꞵHb) on mouse brain metabolism during acute insulin resistance (AIR). We found that both AIR and D-ꞵHb had distinct impacts across neuronal compartments: AIR decreased synaptic activity and long-term potentiation (LTP) and impaired axonal conduction, synchronization, and action potential properties, while D-ꞵHb rescued neuronal functions associated with axonal conduction, synchronization, and LTP.
Exploring overlooked growth-promoting mechanisms by plant-associated bacteria
Authors: Danchin Antoine
Published: May 2024

Agriculture-oriented microbiome studies try to develop microbiota beneficial to their plant hosts. This positive goal extends to the soil quality driving plant growth and disease resistance. In research aimed at identifying the causes of this beneficial action, a common interpretation is that microbes will synthesize metabolites useful to their hosts. This view assumes that important microbial metabolites are exported for use by their hosts. Yet, this seems unlikely for essential metabolites, without a counterpart imported from the plants, as the corresponding syntheses would often involve the consumption of resources without explicit benefit to the microbes. Illustrating this function with the example of Bacilli of the Subtilis clade, we emphasize here that the most direct access to the contents of microbial cells is through cell lysis, a phenomenon often linked to the process of sporulation. This process also releases macromolecules that are digested in the environment, releasing key metabolites such as queuine, an important base analog present in the anticodon of some transfer RNAs. This overlooked importance of cell lysis could also be a major cause of the ubiquitous presence of bacteriophages in microbiota.
Renal disease in pediatric rheumatology
Authors: Cody Ellen , Brunner Hermine I.
Published: May 2024

Purpose of review

This review will provide updates in the outcomes in the common rheumatologic diseases with kidney involvement. Covered are also advances in therapeutics for the use of pediatric rheumatologic diseases with kidney involvement, as well as the potential kidney complications from other rheumatologic diseases and their medications.

Recent findings

Two of the more common rheumatologic diseases with kidney involvement, lupus and vasculitis, continue to show inadequate response to initial therapy of renal disease and practice continues to be driven by results of adult studies.

There is a continued need for pediatric specific studies in rheumatologic diseases with kidney involvement as outcomes continue to be inadequate. Despite recently approved treatments for adults with rheumatic diseases and kidney involvement, therapeutic options in pediatrics remain limited, contributing to the overall morbidity and mortality.
Multiple brain abscesses in a neonate: a rare case report along with review of literature
Authors: Mehta Aanand , Yadav Manish , Gupta Bishal K. , Thapa Bikash , Rai Junu , Thapa Surya B. , Yadav Sudip K. , Yadav Digraj , Sharma Mohan R.
Published: May 2024

Introduction and importance:

Brain abscess (BA) is a pyogenic infection of the brain parenchyma caused by various organisms. Multiple BAs are uncommon in neonates, and Candida albicans as a causative agent is very rare. If left untreated, BAs are invariably fatal. Early diagnosis, prompt surgical intervention, simultaneous eradication of the primary source, and high-dose intravenous antibiotics decrease the incidence of morbidity and mortality.

Case presentation:

A 20-day-old newborn, delivered normally at term with a full APGAR score, presented with a 5-day history of fever, decreased activity, jaundice, and seizures. Imaging identified multiple cerebral cysts, diagnosed as multiple cerebral abscesses. Treatment involved intraoperative USG-guided burr-hole drainage, followed by a 6-week antifungal therapy course. C. albicans was found to be the causative organism following microscopic examination and culture of the pus.

Clinical discussion:

This literature highlights the rarity of fungal involvement in multiple cerebral abscesses in neonates. Managing such cases is very challenging, as the presentation may mimic bacterial infections. The importance of considering fungi as a causative agent in treatment decisions is crucial.

Conclusion:

Multiple BAs of fungal origin are extremely rare. Early detection and management of cases can reduce mortality among neonates.
Rheumatoid Arthritis–Related Lung Disease and Its Association With Mortality
Authors: Sahin Didem , Colaklar Anil , Baysal Serdar , Torgutalp Murat , Baygul Asaf , Sezer Serdar , Aydemir Guloksuz Emine G. , Yuksel Mehmet L. , Yayla Mucteba E. , Uslu Emine , Uzun Caglar , Ozdemir Kumbasar Ozlem , Turgay Tahsin M. , Kinikli Gulay , Ates Askin
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to determine the association of rheumatoid arthritis–related lung disease (RA-LD) and its subtypes with all-cause mortality.

Materials and Methods

For the present analyses, patients with RA who underwent computed tomography of the chest (chest-CT) were evaluated. RA-LD was defined in 4 subtypes as follows: interstitial lung disease (RA-ILD), airway disease (RA-AD), rheumatoid pulmonary nodules (RA-PN), and RA-related pleural disease (RA-PD). The date of RA-LD diagnosis was considered the date of the first chest-CT detecting the pathology. To assess the factors associated with mortality, multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed with variables selected based on their causal associations with the outcome.

Results

Of 576 RA patients, 253 (43.9%) had RA-LD (38.7% male; mean age at RA-LD diagnosis, 59.9 ± 9.8 years). The most common subtype was RA-AD, which was detected in 119 (47.0%) patients followed by 107 (42.3%) with RA-ILD, 70 (27.7%) with RA-PN, and 31 (12.3%) with RA-PD. Sixty-one (24.1%) patients had 2+ subtypes. After median follow-up of 10.2 years, 97 (16.8%) died. The existence of at least 1 subtype and 2+ subtypes increased the all-cause mortality, as indicated by odds ratios of 1.60 (95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–2.48) and 2.39 (95% CI, 1.26–4.54), respectively. Among RA-LD patients, RA-ILD and RA-PD were associated with increased mortality (odds ratios were 2.20 [95% CI, 1.18–4.08] and 1.62 [95% CI, 0.70–3.75], respectively).

Conclusions

In this study, RA-AD was the most common subtype, and the presence of RA-LD increased mortality. This effect was particularly pronounced in patients with RA-ILD and RA-PD or those presenting with 2+ subtypes.
Histopathologic Predictors for Locoregional Recurrence in Patients With Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma – A Single-Center Retrospective Study
Authors: Jolly Satnam Singh , Rattan Vidya , Parasuraman Lingesh , Mitra Suvradeep , Singh Apoorva
Published: May 2024

Background:

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is known for its aggressive behavior and the high potential for locoregional recurrence (LRR), contributing to poor prognostic outcomes. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of histologic parameters in predicting LRR in patients with OSCC.

Materials and Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed on 58 OSCC patients treated between January 2018 and December 2022. Data were collected from medical records, focusing on demographics, clinicopathologic features, and treatment details. Different histopathologic factors such as depth of invasion, tumor stage (T), pathologic node stage (N), histologic grade of differentiation, perineural invasion, lymphovascular invasion, extranodal extension (ENE), and margin of resection were correlated with LRR.

Results:

Out of 58 patients, 20 (34.4%) reported LRR within the first year of follow-up. In the recurrence group, 14 patients succumbed to death within 24 months. Among all the histopathologic parameters, our study found a statistically significant correlation between higher pathologic node stage, presence of ENE, and closest margin of resection (≤5 mm) with LRR.

Conclusion:

Higher pathologic node stage, presence of ENE, and closest margin of resection (≤5 mm) were the histopathologic factors associated with LRR, and can serve as deciding prognostic factors. Treatment intensification in early-stage disease with higher pathologic nodal stage, presence of ENE, and closest margin of resection (≤5 mm) may improve survival outcomes.
Association of Collagen Changes in Distal Anastomotic Margin and Anastomotic Stenosis after Neoadjuvant Chemoradiotherapy for Rectal Cancer
Authors: Feng Mingyuan , Wang Huaiming , Zheng Jixiang , Chen Zhenbang , Kang Bingzi , Zhao Yandong , Yao Jiaxin , Wang Hui , Zhuo Shuangmu , Yan Jun
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND:

Neoadjuvant chemoradiotherapy (nCRT) for rectal cancer can lead to structural changes in collagen in the tumor microenvironment and increase the risk of postoperative anastomotic stenosis (AS). However, the quantitative relationship between AS and collagen has not been defined. This study is to quantitatively analyze the collagen features in rectal cancer and explore the relationship between the changes of collagen and postoperative anastomotic stenosis after nCRT.

STUDY DESIGN:

This is a retrospective study. A total of 371 patients with rectal cancer were included. Collagen features in the resection margin of rectal cancer anastomosis was extracted by multiphoton imaging. The least absolute shrinkage operator logistic regression was performed to select features related to AS and the collagen score (CS) was constructed. Area under the receiver operating curve (AUROC) and decision curve analysis were performed to evaluate the discrimination and clinical benefit of the nomogram.

RESULTS:

The probability of AS was 23% in the training cohort and 15.9% in the validation cohort. In the training cohort, the distance between tumor and resection margin, anastomotic leakage and CS were independent risk factors for postoperative AS in univariate and multivariate analyses. A nomogram was constructed based on these results. The prediction nomogram showed good discrimination (AUROC 0.864; 95% CI 0.776 to 0.952) and was validated in the validation cohort (AUROC 0.918; 95% CI 0.851 to 0.985).

CONCLUSIONS:

CS is an independent risk factor for AS in rectal cancer after nCRT. The predictive model based on CS can predict the occurrence of postoperative AS.
A Unique Case of SCN2A Variant-Associated Catatonia and Response to Electroconvulsive Therapy
Authors: Colijn Mark Ainsley , Pirlot Tyler
Published: May 2024

The SCN2A gene encodes a subunit that forms part of voltage-gated sodium channels in the brain. Gain-of-function mutations are associated with epilepsy as well as numerous movement/motor abnormalities. Loss-of-function mutations may also cause epilepsy in addition to a variety of neurodevelopmental anomalies, including autism and intellectual disability. The occurrence of catatonia has also been described in 1 previous report that involved a 4-year-old boy. We describe a 20-year-old intellectually disabled female patient who developed recurrent catatonic symptoms in her teenage years that remitted with electroconvulsive therapy. This is only the second report of catatonia occurring in relation to an SCN2A mutation and the first involving a female. Moreover, this case is unique given our patient's later age of symptom onset and given that her symptoms responded well to electroconvulsive therapy.
Current Physical Therapy for Skin Scars Management: A Scoping Review Protocol
Authors: Di Serio Sara , Congiu Matteo , Minnucci Silvia , Scalise Valentina , Mourad Firas
Published: May 2024

Background

Scar impairments impose a great economic burden and influence a subject’s well-being and quality of life. Despite that, physiotherapy interventions are poorly investigated.

Objective of the study

Provide a comprehensive overview of studies addressing physiotherapy and conservative non-invasive interventions for skin scar management, summarizing studies based on scar type, localization, patient’s characteristics (e.g., age), safety and tolerance of physical interventions. The realization of an infographic will assist clinicians and patients with scars’ management. Moreover, any knowledge gaps will be identified.

Methods

The review will be conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute Manual for Evidence Synthesis. MEDLINE Central, PEDro, Embase, Cochrane Library and Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) and CINAHL and grey literature (e.g., Google Scholar) will be searched for studies considering physical therapy interventions in scars management. Every study considering conservative non-invasive physiotherapy interventions for scar management will be included. This review will look at studies carried out in any context. Articles written in English or Italian will be considered. No temporal or publication type restrictions will be placed. Selection and extraction of data will be done by three reviewers independently, any discrepancies will be resolved by a fourth reviewer. The results will be illustrated using descriptive statistics and summarized in an infographic.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethics approval will be necessary.
Researcher Views on Multi-omics Return of Results to Research Participants: Insights from the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) Study
Authors: Ormond Kelly E. , Stanclift Caroline , Reuter Chloe M. , Carter Jennefer N. , Murphy Kathleen E. , Lindholm Malene E. , Wheeler Matthew T.
Published: May 2024

Background

There is growing consensus in favor of returning individual specific research results that are clinically actionable, valid, and reliable. However, deciding what and how research results should be returned remains a considerable challenge. Researchers are key stakeholders in return of results decision-making and implementation. Multi-omics data contains medically relevant findings that could be considered for return. We sought to understand researchers’ views regarding the potential for multi-omics data derived return of results from a large, national consortium generating multi-omics data.

Methods

Researchers from the Molecular Transducers of Physical Activity Consortium (MoTrPAC) were recruited for in-depth semi-structured interviews. To assess understanding of potential clinical utility for types of data collected and attitudes towards return of results in multi-omic clinical studies, we devised an interview guide focusing on types of results generated in the study which could hypothetically be returned based on review of the literature and professional expertise of team members. The semi-structured interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim and co-coded. Thematic trends were identified for reporting.

Results

We interviewed a total of 16 individuals representative of 11 sites and 6 research roles across MoTrPAC. Many respondents expressed positive attitudes regarding hypothetical multi-omics results return, citing participant rights to their data and perception of minimal harm. Ethical and logistical concerns around the return of multi-omics results were raised, including: uncertain clinical validity, a lack of expertise to communicate results, and an unclear obligation regarding whether to return multi-omics results. Further, researchers called for more guidance from funding agencies and increased researcher education regarding return of results.

Conclusion

Overall, researchers expressed positive attitudes toward multi-omic return of results in principle, particularly if medically actionable. However, competing ethical considerations, logistical constraints, and need for more external guidance were raised as key implementation concerns. Future studies should consider views and experiences of other relevant stakeholders, specifically clinical genomics professionals and study participants, regarding the clinical utility of multi-omics information and multi-omics results return.
Barriers to Cochlear Implant Uptake in Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Neukam Jonathan D. , Kunnath Ansley J. , Patro Ankita , Gifford René H. , Haynes David S. , Moberly Aaron C. , Tamati Terrin N.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Cochlear Implants (CIs) provide access to sound and help mitigate the negative effects of hearing loss. As a field, we are successfully implanting more adults with greater amounts of residual hearing than ever before. Despite this, utilization remains low, which is thought to arise from barriers that are both intrinsic and extrinsic. A considerable body of literature has been published in the last five years on barriers to adult CI uptake, and understanding these barriers is critical to improving access and utilization. This scoping review aims to summarize the existing literature and provide a guide to understanding barriers to adult CI uptake.

Methods

Inclusion criteria were limited to peer-reviewed articles involving adults, written in English, and accessible with a university library subscription. A cutoff of 20 years was used to limit the search. Barriers uncovered in this review were categorized into an ecological framework.

Results

The initial search revealed 2,315 items after duplicates were removed. One hundred thirty-one articles were reviewed under full-text, and 68 articles met inclusion criteria.

Discussion

Race, ethnicity, and reimbursement are policy and structural barriers. Public awareness and education are societal barriers. Referral and geographical challenges are forms of organizational barriers. Living context and professional support are interpersonal barriers. At the individual level sound quality, uncertainty of outcome, surgery, loss of residual hearing, and irreversibility are all barriers to CI uptake. By organizing barriers into an ecological framework, targeted interventions can be used to overcome such barriers.
Marital dissolution and cognition: The mediating effect of β-amyloid neuropathology
Authors: Chandra Avinash , Anjum Rifah , Waters Sheena , Proitsi Petroula , Smith Laura J , Marshall Charles R ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: May 2024

Background

Widowhood and divorce are extremely stressful life events and have been associated with high risk of dementia and cognitive impairment. However, the neurobiological mechanisms underlying how this risk is conferred requires further investigation. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) pathology, such as β-amyloid (Aβ), may explain influences of chronic stress, such as those seen in disruptive marital transitions, on declines in cognition. Therefore, we examined whether Aβ mediates associations between marital dissolution (through widowhood or divorce) and executive functioning (EF) and episodic memory (EM) performance in cognitively normal (CN) individuals.

Methods

Data from 543 CN participants from the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) were analysed. Outcomes included marital status, Aβ PET tracer uptake, and composite EF and EM scores. Primary analyses assessed relationships between marital dissolution and Aβ pathology, and marital dissolution and cognitive performance, and explored whether Aβ mediated associations between the latter.

Results

Marriage dissolution was associated with increased Aβ burden (β= 0.56; 95% CI: 0.11 to 1.02;P= 0.015) and worse EM performance (β= –0.09; 95% CI: –0.15 to –0.03;P= 0.003). Level of Aβ neuropathology was also identified as a significant mediator for the relationship between marriage dissolution and EM (ACME= –0.007;P= 0.029).

Conclusions

Aβ pathology was identified as a potential neurobiological mediator for the impacts of chronic stress due to marital dissolution on poorer memory performance. This suggests that stressful life events, such as the dissolution of one’s marriage might exert a direct effect on AD proteinopathy, which may subsequently influence poor cognition.
Topological phase diagrams of in-plane field polarized Kitaev magnets
Authors: Chern Li Ern , Castelnovo Claudio
Published: May 2024

While the existence of a magnetic field induced quantum spin liquid in Kitaev magnets remains under debate, its topological properties often extend to proximal phases where they can lead to unusual behaviors of both fundamental and applied interests. Subjecting a generic nearest-neighbor spin model of Kitaev magnets to a sufficiently strong in-plane magnetic field, we study the resulting polarized phase and the associated magnon excitations. In contrast to the case of an out-of-plane magnetic field where the magnon band topology is enforced by symmetry, we find that it is possible for topologically trivial and nontrivial parameter regimes to coexist under in-plane magnetic fields. We map out the topological phase diagrams of the magnon bands, revealing a rich pattern of variation of the Chern number over the parameter space and the field angle. We further compute the magnon thermal Hall conductivity as a weighted summation of Berry curvatures, and discuss experimental implications of our results to planar thermal Hall effects in Kitaev magnets.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Implementation of the photovoice methodology in a project-based upper-division physics course
Authors: Oliver Kristin A. , Borish Victoria , Wilcox Bethany R. , Lewandowski H. J.
Published: May 2024

Photovoice is a type of participatory action research in which individuals document their experiences through photography. Through the taking, captioning, and reflecting on photographs that they have taken, participants are able to affect change within their communities. Participants also take part in an interview or focus group about their photos at the end of the photovoice process in which they determine themes that appear in their photos, allowing them to participate in the research being done. We used the photovoice methodology in a small, project-based, upper-division, physics capstone course at the University of Colorado Boulder, in which students worked on an authentic industry project in partnership with a company in the quantum industry. As an example of the types of research results and benefits one could obtain using photovoice, we present a discussion of how we implemented the photovoice process within this course and present some of our results, including students’ experiences with the photovoice process. Photovoice may be particularly useful in understanding new, unique courses, as it allows students to co-create research that highlights ideas about the course that researchers would not know to ask about in more traditional research methodologies such as reflection questions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Measurement-induced transitions beyond Gaussianity: A single particle description
Authors: Lumia Luca , Tirrito Emanuele , Fazio Rosario , Collura Mario
Published: May 2024

Repeated measurements can induce entanglement phase transitions in the dynamics of quantum systems. Interacting models, both chaotic and integrable, generically show a stable volume-law entangled phase at low measurement rates that disappears for free, Gaussian fermions. Interactions break the Gaussianity of a dynamical map in its unitary part, but non-Gaussianity can be introduced through measurements as well. By comparing the entanglement and non-Gaussianity structure of different protocols, we propose a single particle indicator of the measurement-induced phase transition, and we use it to argue in favor of the stability of the transition when non-Gaussianity is purely provided by measurements.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
New forms of employment: development of take-away delivery and urban–rural wage inequality
Authors: Gao Ziming
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Since smartphones became ubiquitous, online grocery and food purchases through take-away delivery platforms have steadily increased in China. Nevertheless, whether the development of take-away delivery can ameliorate urban–rural wage inequality still requires further analysis. The purpose of this paper is to clarify whether this positive effect exists.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper makes estimations based on city and individual levels combining the Chinese Household Income Project (CHIP) 2008, CHIP 2013, CHIP2018 survey data and the take-away delivery site data. At the city level, the Oaxaca-Blinder (O-B) decomposition method is employed to construct wage inequality index of urban and rural labors. At the individual level, this paper analyzes urban–rural wage differentials with high or low formal education level.

Findings

The rapid establishment of take-away delivery sites has resulted in an increase of 52.425 yuan on average in the annual wage of rural labors with low formal education level. When the cumulative number of sites increases by 1 unit, the annual wage inequality index decreases by 0.007 on average. Labors with the characteristics of rural household registration and low education can enjoy more dividends. Through inter-/within-industry decomposition, this paper elaborates formal education, age and cross-industry transfer as the main factors for the improvement of urban–rural wage inequality. Narrowing effect of wage differences between different groups in multiple sample slices also contributes to the mechanism analyses.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is the first to analyze the impact of take-away delivery development on the urban–rural wage inequality from the perspective of the establishment of take-away delivery sites. This empirical study will enrich the existing theoretical perspectives on urban–rural divide under the emergence of new forms of employment. The results indicate that new forms of employment represented by take-away delivery can not only promote economic growth, but also eliminate urban–rural inequality.
The impact of perceived organizational virtuousness on employees’ innovative behavior
Authors: Arshad Beenish , Hassan Hamid , Azam Akbar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to draw upon the broaden-and-build theory to examine the relationship between perceived organizational virtuousness and employees’ innovative behavior. Moreover, the study investigates the indirect relationship between perceived organizational virtuousness and employees’ innovative behavior via thriving. Additionally, this study examines whether creative personal identity strengthens the relationship between thriving and innovative behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research methodology was used to test the proposed moderated mediation model. Data was gathered from 206 respondents from organizations in different industries. The SPSS PROCESS tool was used for hypotheses testing.

Findings

The findings of the study revealed that there is a positive relationship between perceived organizational virtuousness and employees’ innovative behavior. Additionally, the results also support that there is an indirect relationship between perceived organizational virtuousness and innovative behavior through thriving. The findings revealed that creative personal identity strengthens the relationship between thriving and innovative behavior.

Practical implications

The findings of the study provide implications for managers who can promote and shape virtuous organizational contexts to drive positive employee attitudes and behaviors.

Originality/value

This study addresses the call of scholars to extend the body of research on the outcomes of organizational virtuousness. The study contributes to the limited body of knowledge regarding the relationship between organizational virtuousness and employees’ innovative behavior. Furthermore, it elaborates on the precise mechanism through which perceived organizational virtuousness can increase employees’ innovative output. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the current study is also the pioneer attempt to examine the role of a personal identity factor in influencing the relationship between employees’ experience of thriving and their innovative behavior.
Citizen scholars: cultivating 21st century graduate competencies in business education
Authors: Gao Yuhui , Huber Elaine
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study has two objectives: (1) to identify gaps in the citizen scholar framework by comparing and synthesizing the relevant pedagogical literature and (2) to illustrate how 21st century graduate capabilities can be cultivated through teaching practices using the citizen scholar framework.

Design/methodology/approach

We briefly synthesize the relevant citizen scholar pedagogical frameworks and approaches. We use two case studies in two large classroom settings in Ireland and Australia to demonstrate how the citizen scholar attributes can be developed through curriculum design and multiple forms of assessment.

Findings

We identify that there is a need for digital literacy to be placed as a fifth attribution cluster in the citizen scholar framework. We also demonstrate that these graduate competencies can be developed at scale by embedding the citizen scholar framework in teaching practices.

Practical implications

We offer a practical implementation mechanism for cultivating 21st century graduate competencies, which will help further embed citizen scholar in pedagogy strategies, thus empowering learning at scale in business education.

Originality/value

The current study makes the first attempt to identify significant attribution gaps in the citizen scholar framework by synthesizing and mapping the relevant approaches. Detailed examples of curriculum design from the two countries also offer new insights into the implementation of a citizen scholar framework.
The trickle-down effect of strengths use support: examining the linkage between “support from superiors” and “support for subordinates”
Authors: Matsuo Makoto
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Although strengths use support (SUS) has been shown to facilitate employee strengths use and work engagement, little is known about how senior managers’ SUS affects middle managers’ SUS. The purpose of the present research was to examine the trickle-down effect of SUS from superiors on SUS for subordinates.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-wave questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data from middle managers (n = 228) at a global manufacturing firm in Japan.

Findings

The results of structural equation modeling indicated that (1) SUS from superiors indirectly promoted SUS for subordinates mediated through middle managers’ strength use, and (2) SUS from superiors indirectly promoted SUS for subordinates mediated through middle managers’ strength use, and subsequently through their work engagement.

Research limitations/implications

As the respondents were middle-level managers at a manufacturing firm in Japan and were all Japanese nationals, indigenous culture and traditional work mentality may have affected the results.

Practical implications

To create a supportive learning culture in an organization, human resource (HR) managers need to encourage senior-level managers to provide SUS for middle managers through HR systems such as training, appraisal, and survey feedback.

Originality/value

This study may be the first to clarify how SUS from superiors is linked to SUS for subordinates by identifying the mediating effects of strength use and work engagement, based on the Job-Demand Resources model, the Social Cognitive theory, and the trickle-down effect.
Analysis of garment fit problems and body measurements of Ethiopian young female consumers
Authors: Bizuneh Berihun , Destaw Abrham , Hailu Fasika
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate fit problems with some ready-to-wear garments, analyse the body measurements of Ethiopian young female consumers and draw implications for the improvement of ready-to-wear garment fit.

Design/methodology/approach

A random sample of 970 university students aged 18–35 years were interviewed, and their 35 body dimensions were measured manually according to the procedures in ISO 8559: 2017. The fit problems and body measurements were examined with the body mass index (BMI) and ethnicity of the subjects. Moreover, 15 body dimensions were compared with that of Chinese and US females of similar age.

Findings

The results showed that fit problems are frequent in lower garments for underweight consumers. Nearly consistent and smaller differences in body measurements were observed with BMIs and ethnicity of the subjects, while inconsistent and larger differences were found among the subjects from the three countries. The Ethiopian subjects were smaller than the Chinese in height and weight, between the Chinese and US females in most body measurements, and larger than the US subjects in across shoulder and arm and shoulder lengths. The results alarm the need for the development of Ethiopian national garment size standards.

Originality/value

The paper relates ready-to-wear garment fit issues to demographic factors and demographic factors to body measurements. Moreover, it considers young female consumers in Ethiopia, an African country with less explored consumer needs for clothing.
Flying without fear: Shooting disturbance has little effect on site preferences in a conflict goose species
Authors: McIntosh Aimée L. S. , Langley Liam P. , Hilton Geoff M. , Shaw Jessica M. , Bearhop Stuart
Published: May 2024

Human‐modified landscapes have created opportunities for numerous taxa. Agricultural expansion has proven advantageous for several Arctic‐breeding goose species, leading to increased abundance and intensified conflict with farmers. Shooting is frequently implemented as a mitigation strategy to control population and via scaring to alter the spatial distribution of conflict species. However, the efficacy of such regimes in manipulating the fear landscape is not always investigated.

We developed resource selection functions using GPS‐tracking data for Greenland barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis) wintering on Islay, Scotland to assess foraging site choice. We assessed overall foraging site preference and evaluated the influence of shooting management on foraging site selection of key habitats.

Barnacle geese selected for improved grassland areas and the likelihood of utilisation varied between these fields according to field‐specific management. Protected areas were strongly selected for along with newly reseeded grassland. Field‐level exposure to shooting disturbance did not cause a notable change in site selection.

Synthesis and Applications: Our results demonstrate the importance of providing refuges within managed agricultural landscapes to encourage site use and minimise conflict. We highlight how low‐intensity shooting disturbance may be ineffective in altering winter habitat selection of high‐value foraging sites (especially near roosts). If future management aimed to stimulate redistribution, higher intensity shooting disturbance along with the spatial and temporal coordination of shooting effort would likely be required to create a stronger perceived gradient of disturbance risk.
“Why is it not bringing me meaning and purpose?” Former occupational therapists' narratives of leaving the profession
Authors: Turner Isla , McMullen‐Roach Sarah , Baker Amy , Murray Carolyn M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

The demand for occupational therapy services in Australia has experienced considerable growth in the last decade. Despite an increase in occupational therapy numbers, there remains a substantial workforce shortage. One reason for this shortage is difficulty with the retention of occupational therapists and subsequent workforce attrition. The literature attributes planning to leave as being influenced by high workloads, insufficient time, a negative workplace culture, and stress impacting well‐being. However, much of this research is specific to a practice area, such as mental health, and does not explore the experiences of those who have already left. Knowing why people leave occupational therapy will inform our understanding of how to support and retain our occupational therapy workforce.

Methods

A qualitative study was undertaken using narrative inquiry in an Australian context. In 2022, stories were gathered from six former occupational therapists who left within the previous 5 years. Data were collected via semi‐structured in‐depth interviews using Zoom. Interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data were analysed using narrative and thematic analysis.

Findings

Four themes were developed: “I just want to help this person”; “there was no real understanding”; “Trying to find where occupational therapy fits for me”; and “I'm not able to continue … anymore.” Participants experienced dissonance between enacting their occupational therapy values and the expectations of their management. They were challenged by unsupportive workplace cultures and leadership styles that undermined their autonomy. They responded with resilience, and trying new ways to continue being occupational therapists, but became increasingly uncomfortable and stressed until they reached a tipping point where they decided to leave.

Conclusion

Increasing leadership development within the profession is essential, along with creative strategies for meeting funding requirements and fulfilling occupational therapy values. Workplaces that provide autonomy and respect the occupational therapy role are likely to support retention.
‘Knowing What a Man Wants’: Advertising in Playboy magazine, 1972–1982
Authors: McDivitt Anne Ladyem
Published: May 2024

This article argues that faced with the changing cultural environment, competition and financial hardship, Playboy tried to find ways to adapt with more sexualised editorial content, while also making an attempt at maintaining normalcy in the advertising of their ideal Playboy lifestyle in the magazine to keep the illusion of a fantasy lifestyle alive for readers and keep advertisers happy. Playboy’s team, like their readers, had to navigate their own ideas of masculinity, sexuality and feminism – even if that meant maintaining the status quo. This led to an unclear goal for what Playboy was trying to be in the 1970s and 1980s.
Circulating microRNA profile of long‐lived Okinawans identifies novel potential targets for optimizing lifespan and health span
Authors: Noureddine Sarah , Schneider Augusto , Strader Sydney , Zhu Xiang , Dhahbi Joseph , Allsopp Richard , Willcox D. Craig , Donlon Timothy A. , Shimabukuro Michio , Higa Moritake , Suzuki Makoto , Torigoe Trevor , Ashiqueali Sarah , Yadav Hariom , Willcox Bradley J. , Masternak Michal M.
Published: May 2024

Nonagenarians and centenarians serve as successful examples of aging and extended longevity, showcasing robust regulation of biological mechanisms and homeostasis. Given that human longevity is a complex field of study that navigates molecular and biological mechanisms influencing aging, we hypothesized that microRNAs, a class of small noncoding RNAs implicated in regulating gene expression at the post‐transcriptional level, are differentially regulated in the circulatory system of young, middle‐aged, and nonagenarian individuals. We sequenced circulating microRNAs in Okinawan males and females <40, 50–80, and >90 years of age accounting for FOXO3 genetic variations of single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs2802292 (TT ‐ common vs. GT ‐ longevity) and validated the findings through RT‐qPCR. We report five microRNAs exclusively upregulated in both male and female nonagenarians with the longevity genotype, play predictive functional roles in TGF‐β, FoxO, AMPK, Pi3K‐Akt, and MAPK signaling pathways. Our findings suggest that these microRNAs upregulated in nonagenarians may provide novel insight into enhanced lifespan and health span. This discovery warrants further exploration into their roles in human aging and longevity.