bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How we helped change the state lottery playslip
Authors: Rollinson Joseph , McIntosh Matthew , Ferguson Alex , Couch Josiah , Danley Bradley
Published: October 2024

A chat with friends about lottery numbers led one statistician and his dad to contact state lotteries across the USA and set up a unique undergraduate research group. Joseph Rollinson, Matthew McIntosh, Alex Ferguson, Josiah Couch and Bradley Danley recount the story so far
Beyond conventional wisdom: unexplored risk factors for penile fracture
Authors: Arikan Mehmet Gürkan , Akgul Burak , Turk Semih , Tantekin Ömer Onur , Çakiroğlu Basri , Arda Ersan
Published: October 2024

Background

Sexual intercourse is a predominant cause of penile fractures (PF).

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between body metrics and the severity of PF, identifying how anthropometric factors of patients and their partners influence the incidence and severity of PF.

Methods

This study analyzed 47 patients with PF over 9 years across multiple centers. Demographic and anthropometric data were collected for both patients and their partners. Injuries were categorized by the sexual position or activity causing them, including partner-related positions (man-on-top, woman-on-top, and doggy-style) and isolated actions (rolling-over, blunt trauma, masturbation, or manipulation). Statistical analysis was performed using the χ2-test.

Outcomes

The study aimed to uncover correlations between body metrics and the risk profile for PF, focusing on body mass index (BMI), weight, height, and age.

Results

The majority of PFs occurred during sexual activities (74.5%), particularly in “doggy” and “man-on-top” positions. Urethral involvement was observed in 10.6% of cases. Significant correlations were found between patient and partner ages (r = 0.915), patient BMI and weight (r = 0.874), patient height and weight (r = 0.502), and partner weight and BMI (r = 0.805). Higher BMI in patients was linked to delayed hospital visits (r = 0.377), and frequent sexual activity was strongly correlated with urethral complications (r = 0.727).

Clinical Implications

These findings emphasize the importance of considering body metrics in assessing PF risk and could guide future preventive strategies and clinical interventions.

Strengths & Limitations

The study’s strength lies in its comprehensive analysis of anthropometric factors and their correlation with PF severity. Limitations include a relatively small sample size and the potential for reporting bias in sexual activity data.

Conclusion

The study confirms sexual intercourse as the main cause of PF and highlights significant links between anthropometric factors and fracture severity. Higher BMI and weight in partners are associated with more centrally located fractures and urethral injuries, particularly in taller patients or those with larger partners.
Development and Validation of the Youth Back Activity Questionnaire
Authors: Selhorst Mitchell , Metzger Christina , Rice William , Ibinson Brittany , Mansfield Christine
Published: October 2024

Design:

Psychometric study

Objective:

To develop a reliable and valid patient-reported outcome measure to assess functional ability in adolescents with low back pain (LBP) using the Rasch model.

Summary of Background Data:

LBP is quite common in adolescence. Currently, no method adequately measures the functional ability of adolescents with LBP. Widely used outcome measures for LBP are problematic in adolescents, with significant ceiling/floor effects.

Methods:

Two hundred adolescents (15.4 ± 1.9 years; 56% female) with LBP. This study was comprised of two parts: Part 1: Development of the Youth Back Activity Questionnaire (YouthBAQ) (n = 75), and Part 2: Psychometric evaluation of the newly designed YouthBAQ using the Rasch Model (n = 125). Participants also completed the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) and Micheli Functional Scale (MFS), Data Analysis: Reliability and construct validity of the YouthBAQ were assessed using Rasch analyses. Correlations with the ODI and MFS were used to determine the convergent validity of the YouthBAQ.

Results:

Part 1: Based on the results of the Rasch analysis, 31 items were reduced to 14. Part 2. The 14-item YouthBAQ demonstrated good reliability and construct validity, with good item fit (>0.7 and <1.3), acceptable item hierarchy and spacing, response category functioning, unidimensionality (ratio >3:1), local independence (<0.30). The MFS demonstrated unacceptable reliability (person reliability = 0.62) and was not compared against the YouthBAQ. The ODI demonstrated acceptable reliability (person reliability =0.70), but poor construct validity among adolescents with LBP. The YouthBAQ demonstrated a moderate correlation with the ODI (r = 0.4).

Conclusion:

The YouthBAQ is a quick and easily understood measure of function with good validity and reliability in adolescents with LBP. The YouthBAQ is a more appropriate measure of functional ability than the ODI or MFS in this population.
Rheumatological Diseases and Lower Extremity Edema: A Lymphoscintigram Study
Authors: Ad Michal , Greene Arin K.
Published: October 2024

“Lymphedema” is commonly used as a generic term to describe any form of leg swelling; 25% of patients referred to our center with “lymphedema” do not have the condition. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the lymphatic function of subjects with rheumatologic disease. Five individuals with a rheumatologic disease and leg edema underwent a lymphoscintigram. All individuals had normal lymphatic function. Patients presenting with lower extremity swelling and a rheumatologic condition do not have lymphedema. The etiology of their leg swelling is by mechanisms other than lymphatic dysfunction.
The prognosis of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer undergoing surgical versus non-surgical treatment: a retrospective cohort study based on SEER database and a single-center data
Authors: Gao Xinyan , Kong Yan , Ning Ying , Tian Tian , Gai Xiaojing , Lei Ke , Cui Zhumei
Published: October 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of surgical treatment on the survival prognosis of patients with locally advanced cervical cancer (LACC) and to identify factors that may influence the efficacy of surgery. Data from the SEER database (2000–2020) and a hospital (2013–2023) were collected for this investigation. Utilizing multivariable Cox regression analysis, Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, and log-rank tests, we assessed the effects of surgical intervention on overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS) in LACC patients. Our results revealed that in the SEER database, the surgical group exhibited significantly better OS and DSS compared to the non-surgical group. Particularly noteworthy was the significantly higher survival rate in the surgical group for patients with tumor diameters less than 6 cm. Furthermore, both OS and DSS were improved in the surgical group regardless of whether the cancer was squamous cell carcinoma or adenocarcinoma. Additionally, patients who underwent surgery combined with radiotherapy had notably better OS and DSS compared to those who received chemoradiotherapy alone. Similarly, our hospital data showed that the surgical group demonstrated significantly better OS than the non-surgical group, especially for patients with tumors smaller than 6 cm in diameter. These findings suggest that surgery combined with radiotherapy may offer more favorable outcomes than chemoradiotherapy alone, particularly for LACC patients with smaller tumors.
Multisite DNA methylation alterations of peripheral blood mononuclear cells serve as novel biomarkers for the diagnosis of AIS/stage I lung adenocarcinoma: a multicenter cohort study
Authors: Li Peilong , Liu Shibiao , Wang Tiantian , Wang Fang , Li Juan , Qi Qiuchen , Zhang Shujun , Xie Yan , Li Jianping , Zhu Yongcai , Yang Suli , Yin Guotao , He Xiaoyi , Li Shijun , Xu Huiting , Xiong Mengqiu , Li Guanghua , Zhang Yi , Du Lutao , Wang Chuanxin
Published: October 2024

Background:

Early diagnosis remains an obstacle for improving the outcome of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). DNA methylation changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) could reflect an immune response to tumorigenesis, providing the theoretical basis for early cancer diagnosis based on immune cell profiling.

Methods:

This multi-center study evaluated the DNA methylation patterns based on PBMCs samples from 1115 individuals at nine medical centers. Genome-wide DNA methylation profiling of PBMCs in a discovery cohort (35 LUAD patients and 50 healthy controls) was performed using Illumina 850K microarray. Candidate differentially methylated CpG positions (DMPs) were selected and validated in a two-step DMPs screening cohort (65 LUAD patients and 80 healthy controls) by pyrosequencing and multiple target region methylation enrichment sequencing (MTRMES). Then, an early LUAD Diagnostic Panel (LDP score) based on multisite methylation-specific chip-based digital PCR was constructed in a training set and then confirmed in a validation set from the LDP score development cohort (389 AIS/stage I LUAD patients and 293 healthy controls). Besides, we included 157 other cancer patients, including 52 gastric cancer (GC) patients, 50 breast cancer (BC) patients, and 55 colorectal cancer (CRC) patients to assess the specificity of the LDP score. In addition, we also evaluated the early warning ability of LDP score for LUAD in a prospective cohort (46 people who were at high-risk of developing LC).

Results:

A total of 1415 LUAD-specific DMPs were identified. Then, six DMPs were selected for validation and three DMPs were finally verified. The LDP score was constructed by combining the three DMPs, age, and sex, and showed an AUC of 0.916, sensitivity of 88.17%, and specificity of 80.20% in a combined set, outperforming traditional methods, such as CEA and CT (detection rate: 87.79% vs. 4.69%; 87.79% vs. 35.21%). This diagnostic performance was confirmed in sub-types of LUAD with clinical challenges, such as 6–20 mm LUAD (AUC: 0.914, 95% CI: 0.889–0.934) and ground-glass nodules (AUC: 0.916, 95% CI: 0.889–0.938). Importantly, our LDP score had significant improvement in terms of selecting high-risk individuals who should receive low-dose computed tomography (87.80% vs. 9.28%). Remarkably, the LDP score could predict LUAD around 2 years before clinical diagnosis in our prospective cohort.

Conclusions:

The novel developed LDP score represented a convenient and effective assay for the detection of AIS/stage I LUAD with high sensitivity and specificity, and had demonstrated unique advantages over traditional detection methods.
Clinical Education Capacity of One Regional Physical Therapist Consortium: A Centralized Placement Process Case Report
Authors: Bayliss Jamie , Howman Janice , McIntyre Karen , Renner Trisha A. , Matson Alison
Published: October 2024

Background and Purpose.

It has been suggested that capacity for physical therapy clinical education (CE) experiences is limited; however, data remain unavailable. Regional CE networks have been suggested and may facilitate data collection and management of capacity issues. The Ohio Kentucky Consortium of Physical Therapy Programs developed a Consortium Core Network (CCN) from shared partnerships and implemented a centralized placement process. The purpose of this case report is to begin to describe the capacity of one regional consortium in terms of its demand, supply, and utilization of CE experiences.

Case Description.

A centralized placement process was implemented in 2022 using Exxat while retaining autonomy for sites and programs. Sites affiliated with 2 or more of the Consortium's 14 physical therapist academic programs (n = 364) were invited to participate, with 101 opting in. Academic programs maintained their individual processes with nonparticipants.

Outcomes.

Data obtained provide a description of regional CE capacity for 2023. Demand was 2353 CE experiences; total supply obtained was 4,193, with 19% offered on a “first-come, first-served” basis and 24% obtained through the CCN. Within the centralized process, all academic programs received offers. Outpatient (66%) and terminal experiences (42%) were most plentiful. Overall utilization of CCN offers was 54%, with greater use of inpatient (82%), first (68%), and program-specific (63%) offers.

Discussion and Conclusion.

This collaborative process provided novel data valuable in understanding regional physical therapist CE capacity. Although the total supply obtained seems to exceed demand, alignment between offer type (level, setting, “first-come, first-served” designation) and needs of individual programs and students must be considered further.
Anatomical Feasibility of Endobentall Strategies for Management of Acute type A Aortic Dissection
Authors: Vallée Aurelien , Guimbretière Guillaume , Guihaire Julien , Guery Antoine , Gaillard Maira , Thomas Le Houerou , Gaudin Antoine , Ramadan Ramzi , Phillippe Deleuze , Maurel Blandine , Roussel Jean Christian , Ghostine Said , Vincentelli André , Juthier Francis , Fabre Dominique , Sobocinski Jonathan , Haulon Stephan
Published: October 2024

Objectives:

This study assesses the feasibility of acute type A dissections treatment with a dedicated aortic root endograft concept and introduces a new aortic classification.

Summary Background Data:

Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) remains a catastrophic aortic condition with perioperative mortality ranging from 12% and 20%. Total Aortic root endovascular repair, “Endobentall concept”, has been explored as an alternative but only documented on case report.

Methods:

Imaging study of all consecutive patients treated in three French centers were achieved. The study introduces an adapted aortic classification to report entry tear locations. Measurements included aortic annulus mensuration, coronary height, and several aortic lengths. Two treatment concepts were described “fenestrated Endobentall” and “branched Endobentall”. Patients were eligible to the “fenestrated endobentall” design if their aortic root dimensions fitted the Edwards Sapien® and Corevalve Medtronic® instruction for use. Eligibility for the "branched Endobentall" required meeting the criteria for a "fenestrated Endobentall" and having a left coronary main stem length exceeding 5 mm. “Branched Endobentall” was mandatory when the entry was located in the aortic root.

Results:

A total of 250 CT scans for acute type A aortic dissection were reviewed, 116 were finally included for analysis. The primary entry tear was found in the aortic root in 9% of patients, and in 31% of cases, it was located within the first centimeter distal to the sinotubular junction (STJ). 63.7% of the patients were eligible for an Endobentall procedure, even 73.3% when considering extended criterion. Fenestrated Endobentall accounted for 2/3 of cases.

Conclusion:

In our study, 63.7% of patients with aortic type A dissections are deemed eligible to an “Endobentall repair”, increasing to 73.3% when considering extended anatomical criteria.
Dedicated Chest Wall Injury Program quality review: How to create and incorporate a quality and safety program for surgical stabilization of rib fractures
Authors: Sanderfer V. Christian , Davis Joshua , Green John , Thomas Bradley , Rex Kathy , Sachdev Gaurav , Dieffenbaugher Sean , Cunningham Kyle , Lauer Cynthia , Torres Fajardo Rafael , Kuppler Christopher , Cirone Justin , Ross Samuel W.
Published: October 2024

BACKGROUND

Adoption of surgical stabilization of rib fractures (SSRF) in chest trauma necessitates outcomes reviews and process improvement (PI). As volume and complexity increase, such vigilance is imperative. Over 10 years, our center has developed a dedicated PI program based on our trauma PI program. Here, we outline the components of this program, aiming to share best practices and potentially improve SSRF patient outcomes.

METHODS

Over 10 years, our dedicated SSRF PI process has evolved to include bimonthly reviews on case and quality metrics. In 2022, all patients at our single high-volume Level 1 trauma center with flail chest segments were identified, and a PI chart review was conducted. Data collected included management approach (operative vs. nonoperative), postoperative complications, mortality, patient demographics, trauma specific variables (Injury Severity Score, etc.), and rib fracture details. Operative data collected included number of ribs plated, system used, and complication rates for each surgeon and plating system used.

RESULTS

Of 82 patients identified, 88% underwent SSRF. Among these, 49% experienced one or more postoperative complications, not all directly related to SSRF procedures. Mortality rate for SSRF patients was 15%, predominantly in those with Injury Severity Score of >25 and mean age of 58 years. Patients who had trauma activations and required emergency department chest tube placement had higher complications. The mean number of ribs stabilized was four. Complications occurred more frequently with posterior fractures. Outcomes were collated and analyzed at SSRF Outcomes Committee.

CONCLUSION

The utilization of SSRF underscores the need for a rigorous quality review process to enhance patient safety and SSRF-specific outcomes. Our program developed over time from and was implemented in fashion similar to the trauma PI processes. The resulting quality initiative has fostered center-specific PI projects and programmatic advancements.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

Economic and Value-Base Evaluations; Level IV.
Fluid confinement within a branched polymer structure enhances tribological performance of a poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine)-surface-modified contact lens
Authors: Sharma Vinay , Shi Xinfeng Charlie , Yao George , Zheng Ying , Spencer Nicholas D. , Wu James Yuliang
Published: October 2024

The poly(2-methacryloyloxyethyl phosphorylcholine) (PMPC)-modified, silicone hydrogel, contact lens (CL) material
lehfilcon A
has previously been demonstrated to have a lubricious, antifouling and ultra-soft surface. This study provides confirmatory identification of the outer polymer structures on this CL surface as branched PMPC structures. It further aims to understand their role in providing enhanced tribological performance via fluid confinement. A combination of scanning transmission electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy infrared spectroscopy has been used to achieve both morphological and chemical confirmation of branched PMPC structures resembling the polysaccharide species present on the surface of the cornea. Measurements of the fluid-confinement behaviour of this layer, by means of nanoindentation experiments, show it to resist squeeze-out of the interstitial fluid, thereby boosting lubrication by virtue of a fluid-load-support mechanism. Tribological testing of CLs showed this effective lubrication to be maintained after one month of daily wearing.
Inducible clindamycin resistance among clinical Gram-positive cocci in a tertiary hospital in Niger Republic
Authors: Yacouba Abdourahamane , Zeidou Alassoum Malika , Marou Soumana Boubacar , Moussa Saley Sahada , Ousmane Abdoulaye , Moussa Harouna , Amatagas Saidou , Alhousseini Daouda , Doutchi Mahamadou , Chaibou Salao , Daou Mamane , Brah Souleymane , Adehossi Eric , Olowo-Okere Ahmed , Mamadou Saidou
Published: October 2024

Graphical abstract
Data Hunters: bridging bioinformatics education and microbiome research
Authors: Fumagalli Sara , Armanni Alice , Casiraghi Maurizio , Corneo Luca , Ghisleni Giulia , Labra Massimo , Bruno Antonia
Published: October 2024

Vast sequencing data in public repositories offer researchers unprecedented opportunities for gaining insights through reanalysis and machine learning approaches, thereby advancing the microbiology field. However, the lack of standardized metadata poses a significant obstacle to big data reuse, necessitating advanced bioinformatics skills for curation and integration.

To tackle this challenge, we organized the Data Hunters Workshop, enabling extensive human skin microbiome metadata curation through student community engagement. The Data Hunters Workshop constitutes a student-science initiative within the University of Milano-Bicocca, Italy. Integrating theoretical and hands-on phases, the workshop’s structure included a 6-hour lecture, covering metagenomics and metadata manipulation fundamentals, followed by an interactive practical phase designed as a learn-and-play activity. This phase was supported by in-house developed educational online and command-line resources, facilitating students’ acquisition of Python commands for managing microbiome metadata. Upon the workshop’s conclusion, its effectiveness was assessed through surveys and standardized evaluation scales.

Twenty-nine students addressed the critical challenge of metagenomics metadata standardization. Workshop’s resources have equipped students with foundational knowledge in metagenomics and Python programming, empowering them to curate metadata from 379 amplicon-based and shotgun sequencing projects of the human skin microbiome. The collaborative endeavors of these students will ensure the construction of a curated metadata collection.

The Data Hunters Workshop established a reusable model for similar educational aims, facilitating metagenomics and bioinformatics teaching and metadata curation. It bridged education and microbiome research by focusing on human skin microbiome metadata curation, ultimately striving to construct a specific collection promptly accessible to researchers.
State and trait serotonin variations interact to shape the intrinsic connectivity and gradient architecture of the brain – a combined TPH2 genetics and tryptophan depletion study
Authors: Wang Lan , Liu Congcong , Xu Ting , Gan Xianyang , Kendrick Keith , Zhao Weihua , Montag Christian , Becker Benjamin
Published: October 2024

Background

Serotonin (5-HT) critically regulates cognitive and emotional functions, and both stable and transient variations in 5-HT signaling have been associated with emotional dysregulations. However, findings regarding the neurofunctional effects of transient 5-HT variations have been highly inconsistent. Therefore, we examined whether individual variations in a central 5-HT-regulating genetic polymorphism (tryptophan hydroxylase 2, TPH2) represent a vulnerability or resilience factor for the effects of acute tryptophan depletion (ATD) on functional brain architecture.

Method

The current study utilized a pharmacogenetic within-subject randomized placebo-controlled resting-state fMRI design with n=53 healthy male participants in combination with spontaneous intrinsic neural activity, functional connectivity, and connectome gradient analyses to compare the neurofunctional effects of ATD-induced transient reduction in central 5-HT signaling between TPH2 genotypes (a priori genotyping for rs4570625, GG n = 25 vs. TT n = 23).

Results

ATD induced significant increases in spontaneous neural activity in hippocampal CA1 irrespective of genotype and enhanced communication of this region with the bilateral amygdala and the vmPFC specifically in GG carriers. ATD sharpened the intrinsic connectome gradient architecture in several large-scale networks, including the salience, frontoparietal, and default mode network.

Conclusions

Our results identify a potential genetic marker for an increased vulnerability to the neural effects of transient variations in 5-HT signaling on the functional architecture of an anxiety- and stress-related brain circuit. Connectome gradient results underscore the regulatory role of 5-HT on the intricate organization of large-scale networks involved in emotional reactivity and regulation.
Vaccine failure mode determines population-level impact of vaccination campaigns during epidemics
Authors: Lee Da In , Nande Anjalika , Anderson Thayer L , Levy Michael Z , Hill Alison L
Published: October 2024

Vaccines are a crucial tool for controlling infectious diseases, yet rarely offer perfect protection. “Vaccine efficacy” describes a population-level effect measured in clinical trials, but mathematical models used to evaluate the impact of vaccination campaigns require specifying how vaccines fail at the individual level, which is often impossible to measure. Does 90% efficacy imply perfect protection in 90% of people and no protection in 10% (“all-or-nothing”), or that the per-exposure risk is reduced by 90% in all vaccinated individuals (“leaky”), or somewhere in between? Here we systematically investigate the role of vaccine failure mode in controlling ongoing epidemics. We find that the difference in population-level impact between all-or-nothing and leaky vaccines can be substantial when R0is higher, vaccines efficacy is intermediate, and vaccines slow but can’t curtail an outbreak. Comparing COVID-19 pandemic phases, we show times when model predictions would have been most sensitive to assumptions about vaccine failure mode. When determining the optimal risk group to prioritize for limited vaccines, we find that modeling a leaky vaccine as all-or-nothing (or vice versa) can change the recommended target group. Overall, we conclude that models of vaccination campaigns should include uncertainty about vaccine failure mode in their design and interpretation.
Maternal high-fat, high-sucrose diet-induced excess adiposity is linked to placental hypoxia and disruption of fetoplacental immune homeostasis in late gestation
Authors: Bellissimo Christian J. , Ribeiro Tatiane A. , Yeo Erica , Jazwiec Patrycja A. , Luo Howard , Bains Jaskiran , Sloboda Deborah M.
Published: October 2024

Maternal excess adiposity (i.e., overweight and obesity) at conception is linked to numerous signs of malperfusion and inflammatory injury in the placenta. Previous reports have suggested that obesity-associated placental malperfusion may trigger a state of fetoplacental hypoxia, contributing to adverse health outcomes within and beyond the perinatal period. However, many previous studies have relied on indirect measures of tissue oxygen saturation, including readouts influenced by external inflammatory stressors. Direct comparisons of tissue oxygen saturation at the uteroplacental interface in pregnancies complicated by excess adiposity are lacking. Here, we used a mouse model of chronic preconception high-fat, high-sucrose (HFHS) diet feeding to model the impacts of an obesogenic milieu on placental oxygenation near term gestation (E17.5). We found that both placental junctional and labyrinth zone tissues were relatively hypoxic in HFHS pregnancies compared to chow-fed controls (CON). However, this was not associated with enhanced HIF-1α expression in labyrinth tissues. Similarly, placentas from CON and HFHS dams did not exhibit gross differences in morphology or vessel density and pericyte coverage. However, HFHS placentas have a greater burden of histopathological lesions, including tissue calcification and fibrinoid deposition within the labyrinth zone. Calcified placental tissue coincided with the destruction of vasculosyncytial membranes and macrophage-dense foci, alongside altered expression of immunomodulatory and chemotactic cytokines within the labyrinth zone proteome, which differed in magnitude with fetal sex. While fetal growth was not markedly affected, fetuses from HFHS pregnancies exhibited higher levels of circulating IL-6, prolactin, CXCL1, and CCL2. Collectively, these data confirm that diet-induced maternal excess adiposity leads to a relative state of placental hypoxia, even in the absence of marked growth restriction or fetal demise. While this hypoxic state is not linked to gross morphological abnormalities, it is associated with a greater histopathological burden indicative of local malperfusion and inflammation, and an altered fetal inflammatory and endocrine milieu in late gestation. These findings provide new insight into mechanisms by which an obesogenic environment during pregnancy compromises placental function and contributes to the long-term programming of chronic disease susceptibility.
Orbital Hall Effect Accompanying Quantum Hall Effect: Landau Levels Cause Orbital Polarized Edge Currents
Authors: Göbel Börge , Mertig Ingrid
Published: October 2024

The quantum Hall effect emerges when two-dimensional samples are subjected to strong magnetic fields at low temperatures: Topologically protected edge states cause a quantized Hall conductivity in multiples of e2/h. Here we show that the quantum Hall effect is accompanied by an orbital Hall effect. Our quantum mechanical calculations fit well the semiclassical interpretation in terms of “skipping orbits.” The chiral edge states of a quantum Hall system are orbital polarized akin to a hypothetical orbital version of the quantum anomalous Hall effect in magnetic systems. The orbital Hall resistivity scales quadratically with the magnetic field, making it the dominant effect at high fields.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Real-time study of the interplay between phase formation and stress evolution at the
W1−xSix/a−Si
interface
Authors: Krause Bärbel , Furgeaud Clarisse , Mastail Cédric , Michel Anny , Parent Salomé , Abadias Gregory , Resta Andrea , Coati Alessandro , Garreau Yves , Vlad Alina
Published: October 2024

Nanoscale W1−xSix layers with different Si content were deposited by magnetron sputtering on amorphous silicon layers. The structure and stress evolution during deposition were monitored and in real time. Thus, it was possible to disentangle different origins of stress built-up (interface formation, phase formation, grain growth, and texture) on the nanoscale. It was found that the bcc phase with a composition-dependent texture forms at low Si content (less than 10% Si), but only above a critical thickness. At intermediate Si content (13.9% and 16.5% Si), or low Si content and low thicknesses (≲4.5 nm), the β phase with A15 structure and coexisting phases (bcc or amorphous) form, while a single, amorphous phase is observed at high Si content (≳22% Si). An A15 formation driven by impurities (O,C,N) was excluded by combined x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and x-ray diffraction measurements on a second sample series. calculations of substitutional bcc and A15 W1−xSix alloys support the formation of A15 at higher Si content. The A15-containing interlayer should be taken into account when discussing the superconductivity of W/Si multilayers. The stress evolution during deposition of W1−xSix was correlated with the microstructure evolution, and compared to similar observations for Mo1−xSix. Due to the crystalline phase (bcc/A15) and bcc texture ([111] and [110]) competition, the structure formation of W1−xSix shows a higher complexity. This explains the wide range of stress states (from tensile to compressive) observed after deposition of W1−xSix. Nanoscale W-Si based stress-compensation layers could be employed for tailoring the stress state of nonepitaxial semiconductor devices.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
The interactive effect of products and consumption frequency on happiness in China
Authors: Jin Yufang
Published: October 2024

Purpose

A substantial portion of existing literature on comparing experiential and material purchases on happiness indicates an experiential advantage. However, this advantage is presumed to occur in developed countries, with developing countries being overlooked. To address this gap in the literature, this paper examines the effect of consumption in China. It introduces a new perspective, consumption frequency (ordinary vs extraordinary), to investigate the interactive effect of consumption frequency (ordinary vs extraordinary) and product type (material vs experiential) on happiness and to explore the underlying mechanisms in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The study constructs a model about the interactive effect of consumption frequency (ordinary vs extraordinary) and product type (material vs experiential) on happiness and takes self-expansion as the underlying mechanism. The authors employ two experiments and a nationwide secondary survey dataset to test the model.

Findings

(1) consumption frequency and product type can interactively improve happiness significantly in China; (2) extraordinary material consumption induces a higher level of happiness than extraordinary experiential consumption and (3) these effects are driven by self-expansion, which is an important character for people in developing countries.

Research limitations/implications

This study is incomplete in its lack of investigation into the boundary conditions, such as materialism in the model.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a novel perspective, consumption frequency and integrates it with existing research variables (material vs experiential) to propose the interactive effect and the underlying mechanism, self-expansion. This paper contributes to the theory of consumption happiness by introducing the concept of consumption frequency in the comparison of material versus experiential products on happiness. Conversely, our findings contribute to the understanding of happiness in China.
Effects of foundation pit excavation on adjacent metro stations and shield tunnel structures: a study on horizontal displacement
Authors: Wei Gang , Mu Zhiyuan , Feng Weihao , Qi Yongjie , Guo Binglai
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to investigate the horizontal displacement effects of foundation pit excavation on adjacent metro stations and shield tunnel composite structures. It seeks to develop a theoretical calculation method capable of accurately assessing these engineering impacts, aiming to provide practical assistance for engineering applications.

Design/methodology/approach

This study introduces a model for shield tunnel segments incorporating rotation and misalignment, considering the constraints of metro stations. It establishes a displacement model for tunnel-station combinations during foundation pit excavation, deriving a formula for calculating station-proximal tunnel horizontal displacements. The method's accuracy is validated against field data from three engineering cases. The research also explores variations in tunnel displacement, inter-ring shear force, misalignment and rotation angle under different spatial relationships between pits, tunnels and stations.

Findings

This study models uneven deformation between stations and tunnels due to bending stiffness and shear constraints. It enhances the misalignment model with station-induced shear effects and introduces coefficients for their mutual interaction. Results show varied responses based on pit-station-tunnel positioning: minimal displacement near pit edges (coefficients around 0.1) and significant effects near pit centers (coefficients from 0.4 to 0.5). “Whip effect” from station constraints affects tunnel displacement, shear force, misalignment and rotation, with fluctuations decreasing with distance from excavation areas.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates significant originality and value. It introduces a novel displacement model for tunnel-station combinations considering station constraints, addressing theoretical calculations of horizontal displacement effects from foundation pit excavation on metro stations and shield tunnel structures. Through validation with field data and parameter studies, the concept of influence coefficients is proposed, offering insights into variations in structural responses under different spatial relationships. This research provides crucial technical support and decision-making guidance for optimizing designs and facilitating practical construction in similar engineering projects.
Fostering sustainability in the healthcare organization through green HRM practices: the mediation analysis of perceived organizational support
Authors: Sarwar Adnan , Shahzad Saqib
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of green human resource management (GHRM) practices on healthcare organization sustainability performance in Pakistan. It explores how perceived organizational support (POS) mediates the relationship between GHRM practices and healthcare organizational sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

In the quantitative method, a questionnaire was used to acquire the perception of individuals via a simple random method. A total of 320 questionnaires were collected from the employees in the healthcare organizations of Pakistan, with a 47.70% response rate. Hypotheses were tested using SmartPLS (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results reveal a positive relationship between GHRM practices and healthcare organization sustainability performance. POS partially mediated the relationship, strengthening the effectiveness of GHRM practices in boosting organizational sustainability.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to the understanding of GHRM practices in the healthcare industry, particularly in the context of emerging nations like Pakistan. It demonstrates a novel mediation role of POS to bolster the effectiveness of GHRM practices for gaining sustainability performance. The research proposes significant insight for both scholars and practitioners on how supportive corporate cultures affect the GHRM initiatives that foster economic, environmental and social sustainability.
Analyzing hockey publications through scientometric and altmetric perspectives
Authors: Nadanveettil Ghazzali N. , Kambitta Valappil Ibnu Noufal , Swargiary Hadungshar , Sevukan R.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to present scientometric mapping and altmetric analysis of publications related to “Hockey” in the past three decades. By using the advanced analytical techniques of mapping coupled with altmetric analysis, this paper aims to reveal the complex network of collaborations, the dispersion of expertise worldwide and prevailing thematic trends in the field of hockey.

Design/methodology/approach

The data was extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) database and Altmetric Explorer for articles related to hockey over the past three decades. VOSviewer was used to conduct network analysis whereas MS-Excel was used for altmetric data analysis. The study focused on the articles retrieved using the key term “Hockey” in English language publications. The altmetric attention scores (AAS) were used to measure the level of online attention on different platforms, complementing traditional bibliometric analysis.

Findings

The study reveals a notable increase in the productivity of hockey research over the past 30 years, with a specific focus on major surges in publication output and altmetric attention in recent times. Coauthorship and country-wise mapping analysis highlight global research collaboration trends, while keyword analysis underscores thematic concentrations. Key journals such as British Journal of Sports Medicine and American Journal of Sports Medicine emerge as crucial dissemination platforms. The importance of X posts (Formerly Twitter) and Mendeley in the diffusion of hockey literature is highlighted by altmetric research.

Originality/value

The study provides a concise overview of research conducted on the game of hockey. This research will be advantageous for researchers and individuals involved in the hockey community, as it offers bibliographic insights and aids in identifying suitable media for disseminating their findings.
Are investors attentive before a one-off holiday?
Authors: Fleming Grant , Liu Zhangxin (Frank) , Merrett David , Ville Simon
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study investigates investor trading behaviour around regular and one-off public holidays on the Sydney Stock Exchange (SSX) from 1901 to 1950. The purpose is to examine whether trading patterns differ between regular holidays, which are known in advance, and one-off holidays, which are unexpected. The study provides insights into the predictability of holidays and its influence on market activity, contributing to the broader literature on investor inattention and market anomalies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a novel dataset constructed from handwritten share price lists covering 14,224 trading days, we perform quantitative analysis to assess trading volume before and after regular and one-off public holidays. Ordinary least squares regression models are employed to identify the presence of a holiday effect, accounting for various fixed effects and time-varying factors such as geopolitical events.

Findings

We find that trading volume is significantly lower on the day before regular holidays and higher on the day after, consistent with the investor inattention hypothesis. In contrast, no significant holiday effect is observed for one-off holidays. This suggests that predictability plays a crucial role in influencing investor behaviour, with irregular, less predictable holidays having less impact on trading patterns.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited by the historical nature of the data, which may not fully capture the diversity of modern trading environments. Additionally, the analysis is restricted to the SSX and may not be generalisable to other markets or time periods. Future research could explore similar effects in different contexts or with more recent data.

Practical implications

This research provides valuable insights for market participants and regulators by demonstrating how the predictability of holidays influences market activity. Understanding these patterns could help in making more informed decisions during periods of expected low trading volumes.

Social implications

The study underscores the role of public holidays in shaping investor behaviour, with broader implications for understanding how societal events influence financial markets. This is particularly relevant in discussions about the impact of unexpected events on market stability.

Originality/value

This is the first study to compare the effects of regular and one-off public holidays on trading volumes in a historical stock market context. Our findings highlight the importance of event predictability in financial markets, offering a new perspective on how historical market behaviours can inform current financial theories.
Market-orientation, entrepreneurial-orientation and SMEs’ performance: the mediating roles of marketing capabilities and competitive strategies
Authors: Yaqub Muhammad Zafar , Yaqub Rana Muhammad Shahid , Alsabban Abdullah , Baig Fahad Javed , Bajaba Saleh
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Appealing to the resource-based view and the resource advantage theory, this research aims to ascertain the complementarity of entrepreneurial and market orientation in enhancing the performance of small and medium enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a survey design, a self-administered questionnaire containing scales adapted from leading previous studies was used to collect data from 400 executives working in small and medium enterprises in Pakistan. Partial least squares-based structural equation modeling was performed to analyze the measurement and the structural models and test the significance of the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

It has been found that market orientation and entrepreneurial orientation enhance firm performance directly and indirectly with marketing capabilities and competitive strategies (partially or fully) mediating these causes and effects relationships.

Practical implications

The study adds to the literature on entrepreneurship, marketing and strategy and has significant ramifications for managers and public policymakers desiring to boost the performance of small and medium enterprises, which is crucial to the economic growth of developing nations, through nurturing and leveraging intangible resources such as market orientation, entrepreneurial orientation and marketing capabilities.

Originality/value

It is one of the rare attempts to investigate the complementarity of entrepreneurial orientation and market orientation, channeled through marketing capabilities and competitive strategies to boost SME performance, that too in the context of a developing country.
Telework experience, frequency, and knowledge management during COVID-19 in Japan and the United States
Authors: Magnier-Watanabe Remy
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the relationship between telework frequency and knowledge management (KM) activity in Japan and the USA. By examining how telework impacts KM activity differently across these two countries, this study aims to provide insights into the design and implementation of effective telework policies tailored to specific cultural contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Linear and quadratic regression analyses were conducted to explore the relationship between telework frequency and KM activity. Data was collected from samples in Japan and the USA, with respondents categorized based on prior telework experience. Various KM activities such as knowledge acquisition, sharing and application were measured using established scales.

Findings

In Japan, an inverted U-shaped relationship between telework frequency and KM activity was observed, with optimal activity occurring at four days of telework per week. Conversely, the USA demonstrated a linear relationship, indicating sustained KM activity across different telework frequencies. Notably, individuals with prior telework experience showed higher levels of KM activity compared to those without experience.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the understanding of how cultural differences influence the relationship between telework and KM activity, and ultimately learning. By highlighting the nuanced patterns observed in Japan and the USA, it emphasizes the importance of tailored telework policies and support mechanisms for effective KM in diverse cultural contexts. Future research could further explore additional explanatory variables and their impact on telework-related outcomes.
Research progress in fluorescent biosensor technology for detecting Escherichia coli based on PCR
Authors: Guo Wenjin , Li Qian , Yang Xinran , Xu Pengbo , Cai Gaozhe , Cui Chuanjin
Published: October 2024

Purpose

In recent decades, advancements in biosensors technology have made fluorescent biosensor pivotal for biomolecular recognition. This paper aims to provide an in-depth analysis of polymerase chain reaction (PCR) fluorescent biosensor detection technology for identifying Escherichia coli (E. coli), setting the stage for future developments in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

The review of literature on PCR fluorescent biosensor detection technology for E. coli over the past decades includes discussions on traditional biological fluorescent detection, quantitative PCR fluorescent detection and digital fluorescent detection technology.

Findings

Advancements in fluorescent biosensor technology enable precise measurement of fluorescent signals, and when integrated with microfluidic technology, produce compact, reagent-efficient digital sensor devices.

Originality/value

This paper provides a comprehensive review of recent fluorescent detection technology for pathogenic E. coli, assessing method efficiencies and offering insights to advance the field.
Algorithmic policing: Part 1. Tech startups, venture capital and law enforcement in America
Authors: González Roberto J.
Published: October 2024

This article examines the rise of algorithmic policing in the United States, focusing on predictive policing platforms and facial recognition technologies. Part 1 explores how companies like PredPol, Palantir and Clearview AI have developed data‐driven tools to predict and prevent crime and identify suspects. The article analyses the historical context, technological development and implementation of these systems by law enforcement agencies. It also discusses the concerns raised by critics, including issues of privacy, racial bias and the potential for reinforcing discriminatory policing practices. Through case studies and examples, the article illustrates how these technologies have impacted communities, particularly communities of colour. It examines the complex interplay between Silicon Valley startups, venture capital and law enforcement in shaping modern policing practices.