bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Group twirling and noise tailoring for multiqubit controlled phase gates
Authors: Liu Guoding , Xie Ziyi , Xu Zitai , Ma Xiongfeng
Published: December 2024

Group twirling is crucial in quantum information processing, particularly in randomized benchmarking and randomized compiling. While protocols based on Pauli twirling have been effectively crafted to transform arbitrary noise channels into Pauli channels for Clifford gates—thereby facilitating efficient benchmarking and mitigating worst-case errors—the lack of practical twirling groups for multiqubit non-Clifford gates remains a challenge. To address this gap, we study the issue of finding twirling groups for generic quantum gates, focusing on a widely used circuit structure in randomized benchmarking or randomized compiling. Specifically, for multiqubit controlled phase gates, which are essential in quantum algorithms and directly implementable in practice, we determine optimal twirling groups within the realm of classically replaceable unitary operations. Contrasting with the local Pauli twirling group for Clifford gates, the optimal groups for such gates contain nonlocal operations, highlighting the overhead of tailoring noise in global non-Clifford contexts. We design new benchmarking procedures for multiqubit controlled phase gates based on the optimal twirling groups. Our simulation results show that our scheme can improve the precision and accuracy of benchmarking in small-scale systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Saddle avoidance of noise-induced transitions in multiscale systems
Authors: Börner Reyk , Deeley Ryan , Römer Raphael , Grafke Tobias , Lucarini Valerio , Feudel Ulrike
Published: December 2024

In multistable dynamical systems driven by weak Gaussian noise, transitions between competing states are often assumed to pass via a saddle on the separating basin boundary. By contrast, we show that timescale separation can cause saddle avoidance in nongradient systems. Using toy models from neuroscience and ecology, we study cases where sample transitions deviate strongly from the instanton predicted by the Freidlin-Wentzell theory, even for weak finite noise. We attribute this to a flat quasipotential and present an approach based on the Onsager-Machlup action to aptly predict transition paths.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Proposal for realization and detection of Kitaev quantum spin liquid with Rydberg atoms
Authors: Chen Yi-Hong , Wang Bao-Zong , Poon Ting-Fung Jeffrey , Zhou Xin-Chi , Liu Zheng-Xin , Liu Xiong-Jun
Published: December 2024

The Kitaev chiral spin liquid has captured widespread interest in recent decades because of its intrinsic non-Abelian excitations, yet the experimental realization is challenging. Here we propose to realize and detect Kitaev chiral spin liquid in a deformed honeycomb array of Rydberg atoms. With a laser-assisted dipole-dipole interaction mechanism which realizes both effective hopping and pairing terms for hard-core bosons, together with van der Waals interactions, we achieve the pure Kitaev model with high precision. The gapped non-Abelian spin liquid phase is then obtained under experimental conditions. Moreover, we propose innovative strategies to probe the chiral Majorana edge modes by light Bragg scattering and by imagining their chiral motion. Our proposed scheme broadens the range of quantum spin models with exotic topological phases that can be realized and detected in atomic systems, and makes an important step toward manipulating non-Abelian anyons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Cavity Microscope for Micrometer-Scale Control of Atom-Photon Interactions
Authors: Orsi Francesca , Sauerwein Nick , Bhatt Rohit Prasad , Faltinath Jonas , Fedotova Ekaterina , Reiter Nicola , Cantat-Moltrecht Tigrane , Brantut Jean-Philippe
Published: December 2024

Cavity quantum electrodynamics offers the possibility of observing and controlling the motion of a few or individual atoms, enabling the realization of various quantum technological tasks such as quantum enhanced metrology or quantum simulation of strongly correlated matter. A core limitation of these experiments lies in the mode structure of the cavity field, which is hard coded in the shape and geometry of the mirrors. As a result, most applications of cavity QED trade spatial resolution for enhanced sensitivity. Here, we propose and demonstrate a cavity-microscope device capable of controlling in space and time the coupling between atoms and light in a single-mode high-finesse cavity, reaching a spatial resolution an order of magnitude lower than the cavity-mode waist. This is achieved through local Floquet engineering of the atomic level structure, imprinting a corresponding atom-field coupling. We illustrate this capability by engineering micrometer-scale coupling, using cavity-assisted atomic measurements and optimization. Our system forms an optical device with a single optical axis, has the same footprint and complexity as a standard Fabry-Perot cavity or confocal lens pair, and can be used for any atomic species. This technique opens a wide range of perspectives, from ultrafast cavity-enhanced midcircuit readout to the quantum simulation of fully connected models of quantum matter such as the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Coordination geometry flexibility driving supramolecular isomerism of Cu/Mo pillared-layer hybrid networks
Authors: Moya Marielsys , Liendo-Polanco Gustavo R. , Atencio Reinaldo , Silva Pedro , Henao Jose A. , Bruno-Colmenares Julia
Published: December 2024

Hydrothermal synthesis led to four novel 3D pillared-layer metal–organic frameworks: [Cu4(4,4′-bipy)4(MoO4)4·0.3H2O]
n
(1), [Cu(4,4′-bipy)0.5(MoO4)·0.25H2O]
n
(2), [Cu(4,4′-bipy)(MoO4)·0.1H2O]
n
(3), and [{Cu(4,4′-bipy)}2(Mo8O26)0.5]
n
(4). These compounds exhibit diverse supramolecular isomerism within their 3D coordination networks, each incorporating bimetallic {CuMoO} layers linked by 4,4′-bipyridine, demonstrating a remarkable structural diversity. Compound 1 features a 3D network derived from conformational supramolecular isomerism. Its bimetallic layer comprises fused 16-membered {Cu4Mo4O8} and eight-membered {Cu2Mo2O4} rings, with varying O—Cu—O bond angles affecting the network puckering and Cu–Cu distances. In contrast, the coordination networks observed in 2, 3, and 4 correspond to structural supramolecular isomers from the earlier stated networks. In 2, centrosymmetric Cu2+ dimers with distorted square-pyramidal geometry are linked along the c axis by 4,4′-bipyridine, forming 1D {Cu2(4,4′-bipy)}
n
chains with a Cu–Cu distance of 2.95 Å. Its oxide substructure comprises bilayers of fused 12-membered {Cu3Mo3O6} rings. Crystal structures 3 and 4 are particularly notable for their construction at the Cu+ centers. In compound 4, this isomerism is further influenced by the interplay between the distortion of the coordination geometry of both the Cu and Mo ions. The propensity to form these supramolecular isomers primarily stems from the flexible coordination environment of copper ions. Electron paramagnetic resonance measurements corroborated the structural descriptions of the paramagnetic compounds 1 and 2.
Seed layer formation by deposition of microcrystallites on a revolving substrate: modeling of the effective linear elastic, piezoelectric, and dielectric coefficients
Authors: Ballato Arthur , Ballato John
Published: December 2024

Averaging of material coefficients of crystallites deposited at an angle to a rotating substrate is considered. A simple model is proposed, and applied to determine effective linear dielectric, piezoelectric, and elastic constants of all Laue groups. While these represent tensors of rank 2, 3, and 4, the method applies generally to tensors of any rank. Results are then particularized for 6mm point symmetry crystals, and applied numerically to zinc oxide, ZnO. It is shown that, by means of the rotating substrate method, depositions may be achieved having the equivalent of hexagonal anisotropy, enabling the creation of `engineered' structures.
Do religious values mitigate the effect of formal corporate governance rules on earnings management in Islamic countries? Evidence from Jordan
Authors: Almarayeh Taha , Aibar-Guzmán Beatriz
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the board of directors’ effectiveness in curbing earnings management (EM) in Jordan, a country where Islamic religious values strongly influence corporate practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of 51 Amman Stock Exchange-listed firms from 2012 to 2022, generalised least squares regression is used to examine the association between board characteristics and EM.

Findings

Most board characteristics do not significantly affect EM. Interestingly, board activity is significantly and positively associated with EM, suggesting that the board’s monitoring function has been relegated to a secondary role.

Research limitations/implications

Formal corporate governance mechanisms may prove ineffective, as their effectiveness in limiting EM is undermined by informal rules.

Practical implications

Regulators should adapt corporate governance rules to the context in which they are embedded. Greater attention to religious dynamics could improve board oversight effectiveness.

Originality/value

This study provides a new perspective to analyse the relationship between corporate governance and EM. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is among the first studies to explore this issue within the context of Islamic countries.
“Scaling up Mariam Special Venture”: nutritious products towards base of pyramid consumers in developing economy
Authors: Pipim Kwame Ntim
Published: December 2024

Learning outcomes

After completion of the case study, students will have the ability to identify and apply various distribution strategies in the low-income market segment, to identify how last mile distribution is organized and executed in unconventional market situation and to identify and apply the 4Ps to support low-income market in last mile situations.

Case overview/synopsis

Mariam Atinga, the founder and owner of Mariam Special, was a native of Garu in the Upper East region. Mariam Special had specialized in the processing of freshly grown sorghum in the community into sorghum drink alongside some other natural spice additives. The drink was popularly called and known in the Garu community as “Zomkom”. Although there were other women who also processed and sold the drink in the community, the competitive advantage with Mariam Special was on the hygiene and innovative way it was prepared. She was also outward looking and had already made some attempt at expanding her business and passion beyond the community/district and into the villages. This was where her passion and interest caught the attention of a non-governmental organization (NGO) with interest in supporting low incomes in last mile situations. Atinga’s main interest and that of the NGO was hence to develop a route-to-market and associated strategic marketing approaches to reach this type of market or audience in Garu environs in the Upper East region of Ghana.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for undergraduate students.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS8: Marketing.
When and why is kinship important? Reducing turnover intention with kinship employee engagement
Authors: Pariyanti Eka , Adawiyah Wiwiek Rabiatul , Wulandari Siti Zulaikha
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The main objective of this study is to assess kinship employee engagement as a mediating variable in the relationship between person–organization–fit (P-O Fit) and person–job–fit with turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was conducted at creative industry micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) in Yogyakarta, Indonesia. The number of respondents was 331 MSME employees. The distribution of questionnaires was carried out using offline and online systems through direct questions and Google forms. The data analysis tool used was structural equation modelling.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed that kinship employee engagement is proven to mediate the relationship between P-O-fit and P-J-fit on turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides a new perspective on social exchanges, namely, exchanges that are intangible based on the relationship between employees, leaders and owners of micro and small medium enterprises (MSMEs) in the form of kinship employee engagement. Employees who feel P-O Fit and P-J fit with their organizations will exhibit positive behavior in the form of kinship employee engagement.

Practical implications

The first practical implication is that MSME superiors/owners must pay more attention to P-O fit; one way to do this is to assess P-O fit at the recruitment and selection stage. This may be useful for organizations that hire and retain employees whose goals and values closely match those of the organization. With regard to the P-J fit relationship, and turnover intention, which turns out to have a negative relationship, this finding has implications for the formulation of policies that should not only focus on increasing the knowledge, skills and abilities of employees but also on fulfilling their wishes. For example, providing employees with training, self-development opportunities, flexible working hours and competitive salaries will strengthen their level of compatibility with their jobs, which in turn will reduce the willingness of employees to leave their jobs.

Social implications

In social practice, kinship employee engagement can be applied to MSMEs. When MSME owners have limited funds, facilities, etc., to bind employees, they can apply kinship to employees so that they are more attached to MSMEs.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to introduce a new construct (kinship employee engagement) which is an extension of the engagement construct that is more specific and follows the MSME context, and is the first study to propose kinship employee engagement as a mediating variable in the relationship between P-O-fit and P-J-fit on turnover intention.
Service quality and customer loyalty in Ghana’s auto detailing service industry
Authors: Allan Michael Mba , Alomenu Clemence , Anabila Peter
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The study investigates service quality in developing customer loyalty in Ghana’s auto detailing industry. The study also examines how customer satisfaction and service innovation indirectly and positively influence the relationship between service quality and customer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 318 respondents, drawn from a convenience sampling method, was utilised for the analysis. Partial Least Squares (PLS) of Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) technique was used to analyse the data to obtain results.

Findings

The study established a significant positive relationship between the tangibility dimension of service quality and customer loyalty; however, this influence is indirect through the mediation effect of customer satisfaction between service innovation and customer loyalty.

Practical implications

The study provides a useful guide for policy formulation and implementation by managers of auto detailing services to enhance customer loyalty as a basis of sustainable business performance.

Originality/value

The study is the first of its kind to investigate the role of service quality and customer loyalty being mediated by service innovation and customer satisfaction in the context of Ghana’s auto detailing industry.
Damage assessments of designed sandwich cores against an idealized impact loading of ship accidents: experiment-based validated nonlinear finite element approach
Authors: Saputra Reza Kurniawan , Fhandy Brilliant Aditya , Prabowo Aditya Rio , Do Quang Thang , Santoso Budi , Muhayat Nurul
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The high rate of ship casualties demands serious attention. Earlier studies have yet to integrate several scenarios in an experiment. This research aims to determine damage to a ship's hull that is assumed to have been stranded due to being hit by a rock under the sea.

Design/methodology/approach

This scenario was analyzed by conducting a penetration test simulation using the ANSYS LS DYNA. Modeling was carried out with core, speed, indenter shape and indenter angle variations. The test is carried out by moving the indenter against the plate until the plate is damaged.

Findings

The results of this research show that the round indenter gave the best results in testing, while changes in speed below 1.5 m/s did not significantly affect the results. The contact angle of the indenter to the panel is directly proportional to the damage to the panel, and core X has the best results in the test.

Originality/value

This work presented several proposed eccentric sandwich panels to calculate their performance against impact loading. The detailed geometry for future reference is presented, while the indenter-panel interactions are validated based on experimental work.
Exploring user engagement behavior with short-form video advertising on short-form video platforms: a visual-audio perspective
Authors: Xiao Lin , Li Xiaofeng , Mou Jian
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Short-form video advertisements have recently gained popularity and are widely used. However, creating attractive short video advertisements remains a challenge for sellers. Based on the visual-audio perspective and signaling theory, this study investigated the impacts of three visual features (number of shots, pixel-level image complexity and vertical versus horizontal formats) and two audio features (speech rate and average spectral centroid) on user engagement behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted a field study on TikTok. To test our various hypotheses, we used regression analysis on 2,511 videos containing product promotion information posted by 60 sellers between January 1, 2020 and November 20, 2021.

Findings

For visual variables, the number of shots and pixel-level image complexity were found to have nonlinear (inverted U-shaped) relationships with user engagement behavior. The vertical video form was found to have a positive effect on comments and shares. In the case of audio variables, speech rate was found to have a significant positive effect on shares but not on likes and comments. The average spectral centroid was found to have significant negative influences on likes and comments.

Practical implications

This study provides specific suggestions for sellers who create short-form videos to improve user engagement behavior.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on short-form video advertising by extending the potential drivers of user engagement behavior. Additionally, from a methodological perspective, it contributes to the literature by using computer vision and speech-processing techniques to analyze user behavior in a video-related context, effectively overcoming the limitations of the widely adopted survey method.
AI adoption and organizational readiness: boosting accounting efficiency in Jordan
Authors: Alghazzawi Rasha
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Artificial intelligence (AI) use is on the rise and evolving fast, which expectedly is set to transform the way we carry certain processes in accounting. This study aims to examine the use of AI in enhancing accounting efficiency in terms of AI adoption, employee competence, data quality and organizational readiness.

Design/methodology/approach

This study gathered data from 192 participants working in the field of accounting in Jordan to look into these factors and how they influence the efficiency of accounting processes. The research hypotheses were tested using partial least squares (PLS)-structural equation modeling.

Findings

The outcomes of this study documented that a high level of AI adoption, better data quality and competent employees can achieve better accounting efficiency. The PLS analysis also showed that accounting efficiency in Jordan could be enhanced with increased AI adoption level, mainly when organizational readiness elements such as sufficient infrastructure and positive organizational cultures are in place.

Originality/value

In the realm of emerging markets, this study takes a leading position as the researcher recognizes the vital importance of AI in increasing accounting efficiency across different entities. The outcomes of this study highlight the importance of aligning AI initiatives with broader organizational development strategies to fully gain the advantages of AI in accounting.
The collaborative and professional boundary challenges from a bottom-up perspective: an insider action research study on a hospital ward
Authors: Björk Mia , Eklund Annika , Skyvell Nilsson Maria , Nyman Viola
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify and describe the collaborative and professional boundary challenges at a hospital ward from a bottom-up perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted as a bottom-up improvement project at a hospital ward in western Sweden. An insider action research (IAR) approach was used during the project. The theoretical framework for this project was based on the Cultural-Historical Activity Theory (CHAT). Data were collected between 2019 and 2021.

Findings

The findings showed that unclear professional boundaries and limited resources challenged and hindered interprofessional collaboration. The project group had to reorganize its daily work to adjust to the different disciplines’ legal responsibilities in relation to the patients’ recovery process. To safely discharge patients, the professionals needed to talk about each other’s professional responsibilities, professional boundaries and ethical codes.

Originality/value

The IAR project revealed that revising the daily team-round routine improved the status of assistant nurses and encouraged physicians to consider input from all professions during the patients’ recovery process. However, the new approach faced resistance from clinic leadership, who believed it could prolong patients’ stays in the ward. The findings underscore the challenges of modifying hierarchical structures and social orders within hospital settings.
The influence of Islamic corporate social responsibility implementation and marketing on Islamic bank performance moderated by community religious commitment
Authors: Suandi Edi , Wahyudi Harry , Yoda Tilawatil Ciseta , Reswita Yefri
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of implementing and marketing Islamic bank corporate social responsibility (CSR) on the performance of Islamic banks moderated by the community’s religious commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

The research was conducted at branch offices of Islamic banks in Indonesia with a sample of 251 branches. The questionnaire was distributed for six months. All variables are measured using previous studies’ instruments and Smart PLS 3.0 to analyze the data.

Findings

This study found that CSR implementation had a direct effect, while CSR evaluation and CSR marketing had no significant effect on performance. The results also show that community religious commitment negatively moderates the effect of CSR evaluation on performance and positively moderates the effect of CSR marketing on performance.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the literature on Islamic marketing and financial services management by reporting that CSR marketing in the context of a religious society has a significant effect on improving branch bank performance. Hence, this study expands the understanding of stakeholder and environmental contingency theories by assessing society’s role and perceptions in determining Islamic banks’ performance.

Practical implications

Practically, this research helps bank managers to encourage people to become Islamic bank customers using CSR information.

Originality/value

This study reveals the role of community religious commitment as a moderator for the effectiveness of CSR marketing in improving performance. Previous research has never examined the role of this variable.
Design of a “binaural” hydroacoustic transducer
Authors: Jing Sujie , Wang Hongwei , Yu Zhaoxian
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to design a piezoelectric sensor with high performance transmitting and receiving functions, which is characterized by simple structure and multifunctionality.

Design/methodology/approach

In accordance with the binaural principle, a binaural-sensitive element is constructed with the middle module transmitting the signal and the left and right modules receiving the signal. The traditional 1-3-2 piezoelectric composite material is selected for the sensitive element of the transmitting module, while the improved 1-3-2 piezoelectric composite material is selected for the sensitive element of the receiving module. The impact of varying the thickness of the transmitting module on its resonance frequency and the influence of varying the thickness of the receiving module on its anti-resonance frequency were investigated through simulations conducted using ANSYS finite element software. This was done to ascertain the optimal thickness dimensions and operating frequencies for the binaural sensitive elements.

Findings

At last, binaural transducers were constructed and subjected to experimental evaluation within an anechoic chamber. The experimental results demonstrate that the operating frequency of both the transmitting and receiving modules is 150 kHz, the transmitting voltage response is 160 dB, and the receiving sensitivity of the “left ear” is −192 dB, and the receiving sensitivity of the “right ear” is −190 dB. The objective of achieving high-performance transmitting and receiving within the same frequency range has been met.

Originality/value

A binaural sensitive element is proposed to realize high-performance transmission and reception in the same frequency range.
Onychomycosis caused by Aspergillus species belonging to section Circumdati
Authors: Hayashi Daiki , Kashiwada‐Nakamura Kayo , Noguchi Hiromitsu , Matsumoto Tadahiko , Yaguchi Takashi , Ohara Sayaka , Kubo Masahide , Makino Katsunari , Fukushima Satoshi
Published: December 2024

We encountered two cases of onychomycosis caused by Aspergillus (A.) subramanianii and A. sclerotiorum. These species belong to the Aspergillus section Circumdati, which is reportedly common in a wide range of habitats. The members of section Circumdati rarely cause onychomycosis. We report the second and fifth cases of A. subramanianii and A. sclerotiorum in the world. Positive findings in dermatophyte antigen kits helped us to diagnose these infections. These isolates were sensitive to ravuconazole, with a minimum inhibitory concentration of  0.5 μg/mL. They were successfully treated with oral fosravuconazole. We discuss 14 cases of onychomycosis caused by Aspergillus section Circumdati.
Drivers of infliximab biosimilar uptake: A comparative analysis of new biosimilar initiations versus switching in a national rheumatology registry
Authors: Roberts Eric Thomas , Bansback Nick , Tseng Chien‐Wen , Shiboski Stephen , Li Jing , Schmajuk Gabriela , Yazdany Jinoos
Published: December 2024

Objective

To analyze the variability in new infliximab biosimilar starts as well as switching from bio‐originator to biosimilar infliximab, across insurance payers and rheumatology practices nationally.

Study Setting and Design

Data came from Rheumatology Informatics System for Effectiveness, a national registry with electronic health records from over 1100 US rheumatologists. Key outcomes include ever use of a biosimilar, date of initiation, and date of switching. Key variables of interest include insurance payer and practice.

Data Sources and Analytic Sample

Secondary analysis of 37,560 patients aged ≥18 years administered infliximab (bio‐originator or biosimilar) between April 2016 and September 2022 in Rheumatology Informatics System for Effectiveness. We tested for differences in use of biosimilar infliximab by demographic characteristics, socioeconomic status, and diagnosis using standard mean differences and multivariable modified Poisson regression. We used generalized estimating equations to assess the adjusted effect of insurance and year of initiation on new biosimilar starts. We analyzed variation in biosimilar switching by insurance, date of switch, and practice.

Principal Findings

A total of 8196 (21.8%) infliximab users ever used a biosimilar and use did not differ significantly by demographic or clinical characteristics. In 2022, uptake among new users was higher among those with Medicaid (55%; 95%CI 43%–68%) and private insurance (51%; 95%CI 46%–57%) compared to Medicare (36%; 95%CI 29%–43%). Few prevalent bio‐originator infliximab users switched to a biosimilar, and switching was lowest among Medicare beneficiaries (7% vs. 14.2% in Medicaid and 16.9% among privately insured). In adjusted analyses, practice level differences explained 37% of variation among new biosimilar starts and 34% of variation among those switching to a biosimilar.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore two critical areas for enhancing biosimilar infliximab usage: increasing switching among prevalent users and increasing uptake among Medicare beneficiaries initiating treatment. Significant variation in uptake across practices also suggests that local switching policies are likely key drivers of uptake.
Colloidal state–based studies on the chloride salts of magnesium‐ and calcium‐induced coagulation of soymilks
Authors: Li Qianru , Hua Yufei , Li Xingfei , Kong Xiangzhen , Zhang Caimeng , Chen Yeming
Published: December 2024

Chloride salts (MgCl2 and occasionally CaCl2) coagulation of the heated soymilks is the key step in manufacturing traditional tofu. In this study, colloidal state diagrams were constructed first, and then the effects of processing parameters, including coagulant concentration, preheating intensity, protein concentration, and coagulation temperature as well as the intrinsic properties (phytate concentration) on the microstructure, protein coagulability, and water holding capacity (WHC) were investigated to gain an overall framework understanding of the Mg2+ and Ca2+ coagulated soymilk process. As the variables changed, the coagulated soymilks displayed one of the following states: colloidal suspension, flocs, weak gel, and strong gel. The microstructures of the coagulated systems also changed to different features with the variation in processing parameters and phytate concentrations. Several interesting results were obtained. It was found that the transformations from colloidal suspension to gel state were usually corresponding to the increase of particle size, the decrease of porosity, and a sharp increase in protein coagulability. The colloidal states of Mg2+ and Ca2+ coagulated soymilks were usually different, but their microstructures were similar. With the increase of protein concentration, the protein coagulability decreased but the WHC was enhanced. The presence of high phytate contents led to form small protein agglomerates, which resulted in worse protein coagulation and WHC. It is expected that this study will deepen the understanding of chloride salts coagulation process.
Exploring dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV inhibitory peptides from Tartary Buckwheat protein: A study of hydrolysis, fractionation, and molecular interactions
Authors: Wu Weijing , Wang Libo , Qiu Ju , Zhuang Ziyuan , Qin Fei , Tan Qianglai , Wang Yanling , Wu Lanlan
Published: December 2024

Tartary buckwheat, a protein‐rich pseudocereal with anti‐diabetic effects, has not yet been fully explored as a source of dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitory peptides. This study aims to discover novel DPP‐IV inhibitory peptides from tartary buckwheat protein (TBP). Five hydrolysis methods were employed, with simulated gastrointestinal digestion (SGID) releasing the most active DPP‐IV inhibitory hydrolysates, showing both the highest degree of hydrolysis (22.66 ± 1.12%) and inhibition activity (41.81 ± 1.52% at 1.25 mg/mL). In addition, ultrafiltration enriched the <3 kDa fraction with the highest inhibitory rate, and further purification using reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography concentrated the DPP‐IV inhibitory peptides in the first fraction (F1). Nano liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry analysis identified 10 new peptides in F1, among which the peptide Leu‐His‐Ile‐Val‐Gly‐Pro‐Asp‐Lys (LHIVGPDK) exhibited the strongest inhibitory effect, with an IC50 value of 1.61 mM. Kinetic studies revealed that LHIVGPDK acts as a mixed‐type inhibitor, and molecular docking indicated that it inhibits DPP‐IV by forming stable complexes through five types of interactions, with hydrogen bonds playing a key role. This study underscores TBP's DPP‐IV inhibitory potential and anti‐diabetic properties, reinforcing the value of tartary buckwheat as a beneficial food for diabetes management.

Practical Application

This research identified new peptides from Tartary buckwheat protein that effectively inhibit DPP‐IV, an enzyme associated with diabetes management. These findings suggest potential applications in developing functional foods to help control hypoglycemia.
Enhancement of γ‐aminobutyric acid in fermented cucumbers
Authors: Moore Jennifer Fideler , Johanningsmeier Suzanne D. , Pérez‐Díaz Ilenys M.
Published: December 2024

The effects of brine acidification, glutamate addition, and starter culture on γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) content of fermented cucumber were investigated. GABA is a nonprotein amino acid with antihypertensive, antianxiety, and immunomodulatory properties. It is produced during cucumber fermentation but is limited by the low intrinsic concentration of free glutamate. Glutamine is 10‐fold more abundant than glutamate in fresh cucumber and could provide additional substrate if converted to glutamate by glutaminase. Cucumbers were fermented in triplicate in acidified (pH 4.7–4.8) or nonacidified (pH 6.6) cover brines with 2% (342 mM) sodium chloride (NaCl) and 0 or 10 mM added glutamate. Indigenous and starter culture‐assisted fermentations were conducted for each treatment at 28°C. The starter culture included lactobacilli containing gene sequences that encode for glutaminase (Lactobacillus gasseri ATCC 33323) and glutamate decarboxylase (Lactiplantibacillus plantarum WCFS1 ATCC BAA‐793). GABA, glutamate, and glutamine were quantified by liquid chromatography triple quadrupole mass spectrometry. Both indigenous and starter culture‐assisted fermentations effectively metabolized intrinsic and added glutamate, resulting in 10.4 ± 2.2 mM to 14.9 ± 0.7 mM GABA in glutamate supplemented fermentations compared with only 1.1 ± 0.2 mM in indigenous ferments. No additional increases in glutamate or downstream formation of GABA were observed in nonacidified brines with or without starter cultures, indicating that glutaminase production by L. gasseri and the indigenous microbiota was minimal or absent under these conditions. Glutamate addition to reduced salt cucumber fermentations generated ready‐to‐eat pickles that can deliver clinically relevant levels of GABA in a typical serving size.

Practical Application

Research was conducted to explore ways to increase the production of the health‐promoting compound, γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), in fermented cucumber pickles. Cucumbers were fermented in reduced salt cover brines with or without added glutamate and/or acetic acid. Both natural and starter culture‐assisted fermentations effectively converted the intrinsic and added glutamate to GABA, producing ready‐to‐eat pickles that can deliver clinically relevant levels of GABA in a typical serving size.
Economic, social and environmental sustainability in uncertainty times
Authors: Segovia‐Vargas María‐Jesús , Camacho‐Miñano María‐del‐Mar
Published: December 2024

This paper provides an introduction to this Special Issue on sustainability from different approaches. In a global situation of uncertainty due to wars, political conflicts, elections, social inequalities, and climate emergency, sustainability emerges as a potential solution. However, the pursuit of social, economic, and environmental sustainability is a complex task with many facets. Our contribution is multifaceted and ranges from insurance to zombie companies, climate change regulation, temporary trade measures, financial reporting transparency standards, earnings management, and social enterprises, among others. This introduction provides an overview of all the topics that we have covered as well as their main findings and implications.
Mode of delivery and outcomes among inborn extremely preterm singletons: A cohort study
Authors: Travers Colm P. , Chowdhury Dhuly , Das Abhik , Ambalavanan Namasivayam , Peralta‐Carcelen Myriam , Newman Nancy , Cosby Shirley , Wyckoff Myra , Tita Alan , Carlo Waldemar A. ,   For the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development Neonatal Research Network
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cesarean delivery is the most common mode of delivery among extremely preterm infants but there are insufficient data regarding the best mode of delivery among extremely preterm singletons. The objective of this study was to compare the rate of death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment among extremely preterm singletons by actual mode of delivery.

Material and Methods

Observational study using prospectively collected data from 25 US medical centers. We included postnatally‐treated singletons with birth weight 401–1000 g, gestational age 22 + 0/7–26 + 6/7 weeks, without a major birth defect, born 2006–2016. Death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment (Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐3rd edition cognitive composite score<70, cerebral palsy (Gross Motor Function Classification Scale >3), bilateral blindness, or bilateral hearing loss) at 18–26 month follow‐up were compared by mode of delivery (cesarean, vaginal including vertex or breech) using propensity score analysis to adjust for baseline characteristics.

Results

There was no difference in death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment between cesarean and vaginal (vertex or breech) births (42.4% cesarean vs. 47.2% vaginal; adjusted odds ratio (aOR), 95% confidence intervals (CI); 1.03, 0.91–1.17). Both cesarean delivery (26.8% cesarean vs. 51.5% breech vaginal; aOR: 0.71; 95% CI: 0.55–0.92) and vertex vaginal delivery (28.5% vertex vaginal vs. 51.5% breech vaginal; aOR: 0.59; 95% CI: 0.45–0.76) were associated with lower mortality compared with breech vaginal delivery.

Conclusions

Among postnatally‐treated extremely preterm singletons, there was no difference in death or severe neurodevelopmental impairment between cesarean or vaginal delivery. Both vertex vaginal and cesarean delivery were associated with lower mortality compared with breech vaginal delivery.
Exploring prosocial behaviors in times of a pandemic: Individuals’ lay perspective versus scientific measurements
Authors: Kleber Janet , Hartl Barbara , Hofmann Eva , Gölly Katharina Ingrid
Published: December 2024

Humanitarian crises like the Covid‐19 pandemic pose significant challenges to society, prompting scientific debate on whether such situations elicit more prosocial or more selfish behavior. Despite the restrictions imposed by the pandemic, current evidence indicates a continued display of various prosocial behaviors. This research aims to enhance the understanding of what constitutes prosocial behavior from both individuals’ lay and scientific perspectives. For this purpose, we analyzed lay perspectives via an open question in a representative survey (N = 446) and qualitatively categorized the reported prosocial behaviors inductively with content analysis. The qualitative content analysis revealed three clusters of prosocial behaviors: promoting the welfare of others, health‐protective measures, and supporting society. Additionally, we conducted a systematic literature review to identify the scientific perspective view (i.e., focusing on the empirical measurements) on prosocial behaviors studied during the pandemic. Although behaviors promoting the welfare of others (e.g., donations) were the most commonly studied in the literature review, participants reported more health‐protective behavior, such as hand‐washing, which was not traditionally considered to be prosocial before the pandemic. The comparison between individuals’ lay and scientific perspectives highlighted some prosocial behaviors that warrant future investigation (e.g., supporting the economy, home office).
An Empirical Analysis of the Impact of Financialisation on the Rate of Profit for the US (1955–2019)
Authors: Barbieri Góes Maria Cristina , Deleidi Matteo , Bucchianico Stefano Di , Salvati Luigi
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this article is to examine the relationship between financialisation and functional income distribution. To this end, we empirically analyse the relationship between financialisation, the real wage level and the rate of profit in the US (1955–2019) using structural vector autoregressive modelling. According to our results, while an increase in financialisation leads to changes in the rate of profit with ambiguous signs and unclear statistical significance, financialisation has a clear, negative and persistent effect on the real wage level. We conclude with a reconsideration of the role of financialisation in shaping functional income distribution, as it appears to contribute directly to restraining real wage levels rather than directly impacting profitability.
Impact of experience on visual and Simpson's biplane echocardiographic assessment of left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Akil S. , Castaings J. , Thind P. , Åhlfeldt T. , Akhtar M. , Gonon A. T. , Quintana M. , Bouma K.
Published: December 2024

Background

In clinical routine, health care professionals with various levels of experience assess left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) by echocardiography. The aim was to investigate to what extent visual and Simpson's biplane assessment of LVEF, using two‐dimensional (2D) transthoracic echocardiography (TTE), is affected by the evaluator's experience.

Methods

Ultrasound images of 140 patients were assessed, visually and with Simpson's biplane method, by six evaluators divided into three groups based on echocardiographic experience level (beginner, intermediate and expert). The evaluators were blinded to each other's LVEF assessments. Bland‐Altman analyses (bias±SD) were performed to assess agreement. P‐values < 0.05 with the performed paired t‐test were considered statistically significant.

Results

Level of agreement in LVEF was good between evaluators within the expert group: visual = LVEFexpert 1 vs LVEFexpert 2: −0.4 ± 6.4 (p = 0.46); Simpson's biplane = LVEFexpert 1 vs LVEFexpert 2: 0.96 ± 7.0 (p = 0.11), somewhat lower within the intermediate group: visual = LVEFintermediate 1 vs LVEFintermediate 2: −1.2 ± 4.4 (p = 0.004); Simpson's biplane = LVEFintermediate 1 vs LVEF intermediate 2: −3.3 ± 5.0 (p < 0.001) and lowest for beginners: visual = LVEFbeginner 1 vs LVEFbeginner 2: 2.3 ± 9.8 (p = 0.007), Simpson's biplane = LVEFbeginner 1 vs LVEF beginner 2: −1.8 ± 8.7 (p = 0.02). The agreement between LVEFexpert and LVEFs by the two other groups was: visual = LVEFexpert vs LVEFbeginner: 1.5 ± 6.0 (p = 0.005); LVEFintermediate: −3.0 ± 4.4 (p < 0.001) and Simpson's biplane = LVEFexpert vs LVEFbeginner: 3.2 ± 6.3 (p < 0.001); LVEFintermediate: −2.2 ± 4.7 (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The evaluator's level of experience affects visual and Simpson's biplane assessment of LVEF by 2D‐TTE, with highest variability being among beginners. Furthermore, a second opinion is recommended when assessing reduced LVEF even for evaluators with intermediate and expert experience.
Connectivity‐based striatal subregion microstructural changes in sporadic amyotrophic lateral sclerosis patients: Relation to motor disability, cognitive deficits, and serum biomarkers
Authors: Chen Yujing , Sun Sujuan , Yun Yan , Sun Xiaohan , Xin Jiaxiang , Shao Kai , Lin Pengfei , Yu Dexin , Yan Chuanzhu , Liu Shuangwu
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

To date, no previous studies have used multishell diffusion MRI to identify striatal microstructural damage in vivo in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) patients. Thus, in the present study, we aimed to comprehensively explore connectivity‐based selective striatal subregion microstructural damage in sporadic ALS patients and its associations with motor disability, cognitive deficits, and serum biomarkers.

Methods

In this retrospective study, 79 ALS patients and 53 healthy controls (HCs) who underwent clinical assessment, serum neurofilament light (NfL) measurement, genetic testing, and multishell diffusion MRI scanning were included. Using a probabilistic tractography approach, the striatum was segmented into six subregions based on their corticostriatal connectivity. Three neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) parameters, the neurite density index (NDI), orientation dispersion index (ODI), and isotropic volume fraction (ISO), of the connectivity‐based striatal subregions were measured.

Results

Compared with HCs, ALS patients had a significantly lower NDI in the bilateral motor and right frontal subregions, a significantly lower ODI in the right motor and frontal subregions, and a significantly higher ISO in the bilateral motor and frontal subregions of the striatum after familywise error (p < 0.05). Moreover, striatal subregion microstructural damage was significantly correlated with motor disabilities, cognitive deficits, and serum NfL levels in ALS patients (p = 0.020–0.002).

Conclusions

Our study provides clear evidence demonstrating that connectivity‐based selective striatal subregion microstructural damage is a definite feature of sporadic ALS patients and suggesting that striatal damage may play an important role in motor disability and cognitive deficits in ALS patients.
The Influence of a Sudden Impact Loading on the Creep, Damage, and Fracture of Beams Made From Functionally Graded Materials
Authors: Breslavsky Dmytro , Palamarchuk Pavlo , Tatarinova Oksana , Altenbach Holm , Pellicano Francesco
Published: December 2024

An approach to the analysis of the influence of impact loading on creep, accumulation of hidden damage and fracture of structural elements made of functionally graded materials (FGM) is proposed. The approach is based on the analysis of additional damage caused by the impact loading and the stress redistribution caused by it. For the numerical modeling, finite element analysis was applied using algorithms for determining the size and direction of motion of macroscopic defects by means of the analysis of the time‐varying damage field. The fracture after an impact on a beam made from FGM is considered. The nature of fracture of a beam made of two‐layer metal‐ceramic material was studied. The advantages of using FGM to ensure a better long‐term response of a structural element to a non‐destructive impact loading are shown. An approach to determine the time until the complete fracture of the FGM beam by the simultaneous description of the motion of two cracks is proposed.