bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantum topological data analysis via the estimation of the density of states
Authors: Scali Stefano , Umeano Chukwudubem , Kyriienko Oleksandr
Published: October 2024

We develop a quantum topological data analysis (QTDA) protocol based on the estimation of the density of states (DOS) of the combinatorial Laplacian. Computing topological features of graphs and simplicial complexes is crucial for analyzing data sets and building explainable artificial intelligence solutions. This task becomes computationally hard for simplicial complexes with over 60 vertices and high-degree topological features due to a combinatorial scaling. We propose to approach the task by embedding underlying hypergraphs as effective quantum Hamiltonians and evaluating their density of states from the time evolution. Specifically, we compose propagators as quantum circuits using the Cartan decomposition of effective Hamiltonians and sample overlaps of time-evolved states using multifidelity protocols. Next we develop various postprocessing routines and implement a Fourier-like transform to recover the rank (and kernel) of Hamiltonians. This enables us to estimate the Betti numbers, revealing the topological features of simplicial complexes. We test our protocol on noiseless and noisy quantum simulators and run examples on IBM quantum processors. We observe the resilience of the proposed QTDA approach to real-hardware noise even in the absence of error mitigation, showing the promise for near-term device implementations and highlighting the utility of global DOS-based estimators.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Long-Lived Magnetization in an Atomic Spin Chain Tuned to a Diabolic Point
Authors: Elbertse R. J. G. , Borodin D. , Oh J. , Ahn T. , Hwang J. , Rietveld J. C. , Heinrich A. J. , Delgado F. , Otte S. , Bae Y.
Published: October 2024

Scaling magnets down to where quantum size effects become prominent triggers quantum tunneling of magnetization (QTM), profoundly influencing magnetization dynamics. Measuring magnetization switching in an Fe atomic chain under a carefully tuned transverse magnetic field, we observe a nonmonotonic variation of magnetization lifetimes around a level crossing, known as the diabolic point (DP). Near DPs, local environment effects causing QTM are efficiently suppressed, enhancing lifetimes by three orders of magnitude. Adjusting interatomic interactions further facilitates multiple DPs. Our Letter provides a deeper understanding of quantum dynamics near DPs and enhances our ability to engineer a quantum magnet.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Cold Molecular Ions via Autoionization below the Dissociation Limit
Authors: Schaller Sascha , Seifert Johannes , Valtolina Giacomo , Fielicke André , Sartakov Boris G. , Meijer Gerard
Published: October 2024

Several diatomic transition metal oxides, rare-earth metal oxides, and fluorides have the unusual property that their bond dissociation energy is larger than their ionization energy. In these molecules, bound levels above the ionization energy can be populated via strong, resonant transitions from the ground state. The only relevant decay channel of these levels is autoionization; predissociation is energetically not possible and radiative decay is many orders of magnitude slower. Starting from translationally cold neutral molecules, translationally cold molecular ions can thus be produced with very high efficiency. By populating bound levels just above the ionization energy, internally cold molecular ions, exclusively occupying the lowest rotational level, are produced. This is experimentally shown here for the dysprosium monoxide molecule DyO, for which the lowest bond dissociation energy is determined to be 0.0831(6) eV above the ionization energy.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Thin film synthesis, structural analysis, and magnetic properties of novel ternary transition metal nitride
MnCoN2
Authors: Dugu Sita , Smaha Rebecca W. , Quadir Shaham , Treglia Andrew , Martin Julia , O'Donnell Shaun , Mahatara Sharad , Teeter Glenn , Lany Stephan , Neilson James R. , Bauers Sage R.
Published: October 2024

Recent high-throughput computational searches have predicted many novel ternary nitride compounds providing new opportunities for materials discovery in underexplored phase spaces. Nevertheless, there are hardly any predictions and/or syntheses that incorporate only transition metals into new ternary nitrides. Here, we report on the synthesis, structure, and properties of MnCoN2, a new ternary nitride material comprising only transition metals and N. We find that crystalline MnCoN2 can be stabilized over its competing binaries, and over a tendency of this system to become amorphous, by controlling growth temperature within a narrow window slightly above ambient condition. We find that single-phase MnCoN2 thin films form in a cation-disordered rocksalt crystal structure. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis suggests that MnCoN2 is sensitive to oxygen through various oxides and hydroxides binding to cobalt on the surface. X-ray absorption spectroscopy is used to verify that Mn3+ and Co3+ cations exist in an octahedrally coordinated environment, which is distinct from a combination of CoN and MnN binaries and in agreement with the rocksalt-based crystal structure prediction. Magnetic measurements suggest that MnCoN2 has a canted antiferromagnetic ground state below 10 K. We extract a Weiss temperature of θ=−49.7K, highlighting the antiferromagnetic correlations in MnCoN2.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Interactive homework to support student learning of measurement uncertainty in quantum mechanics
Authors: Passante Gina , Kohnle Antje
Published: October 2024

[This paper is part of the Focused Collection in Investigating and Improving Quantum Education through Research.] When thinking about measurement uncertainty in a laboratory experiment that features quantum mechanical effects, it is important to consider both the physical principles of underlying quantum theory (e.g., the uncertainty due to quantum mechanical superposition states) as well as the limitations of the measurement (e.g., the spread in outcomes due to instrumental imperfections). Prior research has found student difficulties with these sources of uncertainty both individually and in students’ ability to distinguish between them. Additionally, students are less likely to access ideas related to experimental uncertainty in quantum mechanical contexts unless explicitly prompted. In this work, we have developed a simulation-homework activity focused on the Stern-Gerlach experiment to help students develop an understanding for the different ways that modifying the quantum state, improving the experimental setup, or collecting more data, will affect the resulting outcome distribution. The activity uses a purpose-built interactive simulation, coupled with homework questions grounded in the literature on student thinking about uncertainty. We analyze the effectiveness of the activity with students in junior-level undergraduate quantum mechanics courses using pre- and post-testing. The results indicate that the activity was successful in helping students distinguish between quantum mechanical uncertainty and uncertainty caused by instrumental imperfections, and in increasing the accessibility of instrumental limitations in this context. The activity can thus support student understanding of the core concept of quantum uncertainty, as well as link between the often abstract nature of quantum theory and laboratory experiments with their limitations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Dance of odd-diffusive particles: A Fourier approach
Authors: Langer Amelie , Sharma Abhinav , Metzler Ralf , Kalz Erik
Published: October 2024

Odd-diffusive systems are characterized by transverse responses and exhibit unconventional behaviors in interacting systems. To address the dynamical interparticle rearrangements in a minimal system, we here exactly solve the problem of two hard disklike interacting odd-diffusing particles. We calculate the probability density function (PDF) of the interacting particles in the Fourier-Laplace domain and find that oddness rotates all modes except the zeroth, resembling a mutual rolling of interacting odd particles. We show that only the first Fourier mode of the PDF, the polarization, enters the calculation of the force autocorrelation function (FACF) for generic systems with central-force interactions. An analysis of the polarization as a function of time reveals that the relative rotation angle between interacting particles overshoots before relaxation, thereby rationalizing the recently observed oscillating FACF in odd-diffusive systems [Kalz , ].

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum thermalization via multiwave mixing
Authors: Pekola Jukka P. , Karimi Bayan
Published: October 2024

We discuss thermalization in a multimode quantum cavity under unitary evolution. According to general principles, an isolated system with quadratic couplings does not exhibit thermalization. However, we find that nonlinearities, here three-wave perturbation, typical for instance in superconducting Josephson systems, may lead to thermalization into a Bose-Einstein distribution of occupations of the modes. The temperature of this state is dictated by energy conservation in this closed system, and the thermal distribution is robust against weak disturbances. We discuss how our findings open up new avenues to experimentally probe fundamental assumptions of statistical physics in solid-state systems.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Linear Cross-Entropy Certification of Quantum Computational Advantage in Gaussian Boson Sampling
Authors: Martínez-Cifuentes Javier , de Guise Hubert , Quesada Nicolás
Published: October 2024

Validation of quantum advantage claims in the context of Gaussian boson sampling (GBS) currently relies on providing evidence that the experimental samples genuinely follow their corresponding ground truth, i.e., the theoretical model of the experiment that includes all the possible losses that the experimenters can account for. This approach to verification has an important drawback: it is necessary to assume that the ground truth distributions are computationally hard to sample, that is, that they are sufficiently close to the distribution of the ideal, lossless experiment, for which there is evidence that sampling, either exactly or approximately, is a computationally hard task. This assumption, which cannot be easily confirmed, opens the door to classical algorithms that exploit the noise in the ground truth to efficiently simulate the experiments, thus undermining any quantum advantage claim. In this work, we argue that one can avoid this issue by validating GBS implementations using their corresponding ideal distributions directly. We explain how to use a modified version of the linear cross-entropy, a quantity that we call the LXE score, to find reference values that help us assess how close a given GBS implementation is to its corresponding ideal model. Finally, we analytically compute the score that would be obtained by a lossless GBS implementation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Crystal structure of N,N′,N′′-tricyclopropylbenzene-1,3,5-tricarboxamide
Authors: Stapf Manuel , Miyyapuram Venugopal Rao , Seichter Wilhelm , Mazik Monika
Published: October 2024

The title compound, C18H21N3O3, was prepared from 1,3,5-benzenetricarbonyl trichloride and cyclopropylamine. Its crystal structure was solved in the monoclinic space group P21/c. In the crystal, the three amide groups of the molecule are inclined at angles of 26.5 (1), 36.9 (1) and 37.8 (1)° with respect to the plane of the benzene ring. The molecules are linked by N—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming two-dimensional supramolecular aggregates that extend parallel to the crystallographic ab plane and are further connected by C—H...O contacts. As a result of the supramolecular interactions, a propeller-like conformation of the title molecule can be observed.
Crystal structure of [Ni(OH2)6]Cl2·(18-crown-6)2·2H2O
Authors: Brannon Jacob P. , Liang Kevin , Stieber S. Chantal E.
Published: October 2024

The crystal structure of the title compound, hexaaquanickel(II) dichloride–1,4,7,10,13,16-hexaoxacyclooctadecane–water (1/2/2), [Ni(H2O)6]Cl2·2C12H24O6·2H2O, is reported. The asymmetric unit contains half of the Ni(OH2)6 moiety with a formula of C12H32ClNi0.50O10 at 105 K and triclinic (P
1) symmetry. The [Ni(OH2)6]2+ cation has close to ideal octahedral geometry with O—Ni—O bond angles that are within 3° of idealized values. The supramolecular structure includes hydrogen bonding between the water ligands, 18-crown-6 molecules, Cl− anions, and co-crystallized water solvent. Two crown ether molecules flank the [Ni(OH2)6]2+ molecule at the axial positions in a sandwich-like structure. The relatively symmetric hydrogen-bonding network is enabled by small Cl− counter-ions and likely influences the more idealized octahedral geometry of [Ni(OH2)6]2+.
“Filling the void”: the diversified grassroots disaster narratives of the 2023 riverine flood in Z City, China
Authors: Xu Peiyang , Zhan Chengyu , Xu Mingjing
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Disaster narratives constitute a crucial and unique element in disaster understanding, recovery and communication. Along with facing various severe disasters, China’s dominant official disaster narratives have played an indispensable role in promoting post-disaster social solidarity. However, the consequences of “weak” official disaster narratives remain unknown.

Design/methodology/approach

In 2023, during a riverine flood in northern China’s Z City, diversified grassroots disaster narratives emerged, “filling the void” when the official narratives were comparatively “weak”. This paper uses this riverine flood in Z City as an uncommon case to analyze the official-grassroots disaster narrative interaction. During fieldwork, first-hand and second-hand data from in-depth interviews, on-site visits and public information were collected.

Findings

Based on fieldwork, this paper first introduced the “weak” official disaster narratives in Z City. Second, this paper organized and classified these grassroots disaster narratives into three interconnected stages: the flood’s causes, government and social responses, and recovery. In “filling the void,” “sacrifice” and “betrayed” sensemaking are detected and functions of these diversified grassroots disaster narratives become clear.

Originality/value

Official and grassroots disaster narratives are not simply competing, but complementary. As a unique soft lens to interpret disasters, this paper further discussed grassroots disaster narratives’ underlying connotations and potential impacts on social resilience building. Also, this paper provides insights into the disaster narrative dynamics, especially in China’s political and cultural context.
Holistic maintenance management for higher learning institution buildings in Tanzania
Authors: Gwimile Teobard Alphonce
Published: October 2024

Purpose

There have been claims of inadequate maintenance practice in Tanzania’s higher learning institutions (HLIs), primarily due to the traditional conventional approach where maintenance is only addressed during the usage stage. This study aimed to investigate whether universities and colleges are adopting a holistic approach to maintenance, where it is considered from the inception stage.

Design/methodology/approach

Structured questionnaires and semi-structured interviews were employed to gather quantitative and qualitative data, respectively. Through purposive sampling, 11 estate managers were selected, with eight of them responding to questionnaires. A comprehensive literature review was also conducted. Quantitative data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM SPSSTM) Version 20.0, while qualitative data were examined using Nvivo 12 Plus and in-depth analysis.

Findings

The study revealed that, maintenance in HLIs is only marginally considered in a holistic manner. In cases where it is “considered,” this is often by default rather than by design. This has led to maintenance challenges, such as the accelerated deterioration of components, the incompatibility of new maintenance materials with the old ones and difficulties in adapting spaces to meet emerging user requirements. The most frequently occurring words in the word cloud, “considered” and “maintenance”, underscore the necessity of adopting a holistic approach to maintenance management.

Research limitations/implications

The study was confined to HLIs in the Dar es Salaam region.

Practical implications

The findings from this study offer valuable insights for maintenance experts implementing holistic approaches in Tanzanian universities and colleges. Top management should focus on proper planning (including maintenance plans and budgets) and decision-making regarding maintenance management. Additionally, the Government of Tanzania may consider implementing policies requiring designing teams to adopt a holistic approach to maintenance before approving building permits.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine whether universities and colleges consider maintenance from a holistic perspective.
Understanding complex casual leisure information needs: an analysis of search requests for books, games, movies and music
Authors: Bogers Toine , Gäde Maria , Koolen Marijn , Petras Vivien , Skov Mette
Published: October 2024

Purpose

In this paper, we introduce the CRISPS (CRoss-domaIn relevance aSPects Scheme) coding scheme for complex information needs in the four leisure domains of books, games, movies and music. It categorizes the relevance aspects people consider when searching for these resources. The coding scheme and findings help search engines to better support complex information needs, both by prioritizing which aspects are easier to classify automatically and by determining which information sources should be considered.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-domain classification scheme for relevance aspects and information needs in casual leisure domains (CRISPS) is developed and applied. The paper provides the documentation of the scheme development and annotation process as well as a detailed, large-scale analysis of 2000 requests (500 per domain) and relevance aspects for four domains as expressed in complex search requests in everyday life information seeking posted to online forums.

Findings

We identify and discuss relevance aspect frequencies, information need types and the described search process of the requests. Furthermore, the coding scheme development and the annotation process are documented and reflected on.

Originality/value

This is the first categorization and analysis of complex information needs in these four leisure domains combined. The coding scheme and findings can be used to develop new types of search interfaces that incorporate the kinds of relevance aspects identified in the scheme, allowing to express complex needs in the form of structured queries.
Do board characteristics affect financial sustainability? The COVID-19 pandemic experience
Authors: Sajwani Burair , Al-Shboul Mohammad , Maghyereh Aktham
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the board characteristics–financial sustainability relationship in the largest US nonfinancial listed firms and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Board characteristics such as attendance, cultural diversity, size, experience and gender diversity were assessed in relation to financial sustainability through various regression models, using 2007–2023 panel data of nonfinancial S&P 500 firms.

Findings

The examined board characteristics are positively associated with financial sustainability. The COVID-19 pandemic accentuated this association, which emphasizes the importance of effective board oversight during crises.

Practical implications

The findings provide guidance to shareholders, managers and regulators seeking to enhance corporate governance and financial sustainability. The adoption of effective supervisory and monitoring mechanisms can improve financial sustainability and reporting practices.

Social implications

Enhanced financial sustainability practices can lead to a more stable and secure financial future for companies, thus benefiting employees, shareholders and communities. This study offers insights for promoting the overall social and economic well-being of the US market.

Originality/value

This study enhances knowledge on how board characteristics influence financial sustainability, particularly during crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. It provides insights into safeguarding stakeholder interests and improving financial sustainability in the US market.
Change in organizational fields: the role of peripheral actors within the Colombian coffee industry (1960–2020)
Authors: Yepes-Lugo Cristian Armando , Ojeda-Pérez Robert , Vera-Acevedo Luz Dinora
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the evolution of the organizational field in the Colombian coffee industry between 1960 and 2020 and explain how peripheral actors influenced institutional change.

Design/methodology/approach

The methods analyze historical processes from a hermeneutical and interpretative perspective. The authors used data collection techniques through interviews, archive data, publications and media reports, embracing an interdisciplinary and qualitative documentary approach. This approach helps the authors unravel the temporal dimensions of the historical discourse related to coffee and the involvement of various actors within organizational structures.

Findings

The authors found that, unlike the literature regarding the change in organizational fields, recently, within the coffee sector in Colombia, the institutional work of peripheral actors (small producers, local associative groups and coffee women, among others) is changing the field as follows: (1) women are changing traditional behaviors moving from hierarchical family structures and lack of gender awareness, to empowered, horizontal and sustained relationships, (2) indigenous people include rituals and other traditional practices in coffee production and (3) ex-guerrilla members are helping to strengthen the peace process implementation in Colombia through coffee production.

Research limitations/implications

The authors did not conduct statistical or computational analysis to simulate the emergence of new organizational forms. Instead, the authors attempted to elucidate narratives and discourses that reflect the tensions between central and peripheral actors from a historical perspective.

Practical implications

This study seeks to help leaders and managers overcome processes or organizational change in which peripheral actors are crucial. From that perspective, allocating resources and capabilities can become more effective.

Originality/value

This paper offers a new perspective of change within organizational fields from the roles of peripheral actors, which are fundamental in change processes within organizational fields, especially in the global south, where tensions between elites and vulnerable people are familiar.
On the consequences of AI bias: when moral values supersede algorithm bias
Authors: Asante Kwadwo , Sarpong David , Boakye Derrick
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study responded to calls to investigate the behavioural and social antecedents that produce a highly positive response to AI bias in a constrained region, which is characterised by a high share of people with minimal buying power, growing but untapped market opportunities and a high number of related businesses operating in an unregulated market.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on empirical data from 225 human resource managers from Ghana, data were sourced from senior human resource managers across industries such as banking, insurance, media, telecommunication, oil and gas and manufacturing. Data were analysed using a fussy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA).

Findings

The results indicated that managers who regarded their response to AI bias as a personal moral duty felt a strong sense of guilt towards the unintended consequences of AI logic and reasoning. Therefore, managers who perceived the processes that guide AI algorithms' reasoning as discriminating showed a high propensity to address this prejudicial outcome.

Practical implications

As awareness of consequences has to go hand in hand with an ascription of responsibility; organisational heads have to build the capacity of their HR managers to recognise the importance of taking personal responsibility for artificial intelligence algorithm bias because, by failing to nurture the appropriate attitude to reinforce personal norm among managers, no immediate action will be taken.

Originality/value

By integrating the social identity theory, norm activation theory and justice theory, the study improves our understanding of how a collective organisational identity, perception of justice and personal values reinforce a positive reactive response towards AI bias outcomes.
Business groups and firm-specific characteristics: influences on entrepreneurial orientation
Authors: Tiwari Santosh Kumar , Shaik Rihana , Vidyarthi Harishankar , Chitre Chetan , Kommu Ravishankar Venkata
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of business group (BG) affiliation on affiliated firms' entrepreneurial orientation (EO). The authors further investigate the possible contingent factors affecting this relationship – the age of BGs and the affiliated firm’s external linkages (ratio of external to in-house interlocks) on the relationship in an emerging market context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a dynamic panel data framework using the system-generalized method of moments (Sys-GMM) on a sample of 670 NSE-listed Indian firms during the 2006–2019 period. EO is measured through content analysis of the letters to shareholders (LTS) issued by the companies between the period 2006 and 2019.

Findings

BG affiliates have more EO than standalone firms, as affiliates can access group-wide resources and capabilities apart from firm-specific resources. Affiliates of older BG have less EO since they are more entrenched in the institutional settings of their BG. Affiliates with more external linkages of board members will have a higher level of EO, as such linkages would subside inertial tendencies by exposing them to novel sets of information, resources and strategic practices. Further, the negative effect of BG age on EO is countered by external linkages. Overall, the study shows that the effect of group affiliation is not uniform and is contingent on the factors we have theorized and tested.

Originality/value

The paper proposes the resource-based view and the institutional void theory as likely candidates for explaining the contribution of BGs towards the EO of its affiliates, especially in the context of emerging markets. The contingent role of BG age highlighted in the paper forewarns managers about the importance of establishing internal mechanisms to preserve the EO in affiliates. Our findings about the positive role played by external linkages of the board members provide one such mechanism that can be leveraged to enhance affiliated firm’s EO.
Preparation and properties of glass fiber/PBAT shape memory composites
Authors: Zhang Yi xuan , Xu Shi , Gao Hongyu , Dong Yubing
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to improve the mechanical properties of PBAT. Polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) has excellent biodegradability, which has been widely used in various fields, such as biomedical supplies, plastic packaging materials, industrial composting and daily sanitary consumables. However, the application of PBAT is limited by its high production costs and poor mechanical property. In this study, the glass fiber (GF)/PBAT composites were prepared, and the effect of GF and the modifiers on the structure, mechanical properties and shape memory properties of the composites were investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

In this work, GF, 3-aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH550) and chain extender ADR 4370 were selected as reinforcement, GF and chain extender, respectively. The GF/PBAT, KH550-modified GF/PBAT and ADR-modified GF/PBAT composites were prepared by melt blending, extrusion granulation and hot pressing.

Findings

The study showed that the fracture strength and elongation at break of PBAT decreased with the increasing of GF, and the decline is controlled after addition of KH550 and ADR 3470. When the GF content was low (such as 5 wt% and 10 wt%), KH550 significantly improved the mechanical properties of the composites. When the GF content was high (such as 20 wt% and 25 wt%), the mechanical properties of the composites were obviously improved by addition of ADR 3470. In addition, the shape memory fixity ratios (Rf) and shape memory recovery ratios (Rr) of the composites increased and decreased with increase of GF content, the prestrain and tensile temperature, respectively. Furthermore, the Rf of the KH550 modified GF/PBAT composites were the lowest, the Rr were the highest than that of the ADR modified GF/PBAT composites and the untreated GF/PBAT composites.

Research limitations/implications

GF/PBAT composites exhibited good mechanical properties and low production costs. The research can help promote the widespread use of PBAT and alleviate the situation of serious plastic pollution.

Originality/value

A novel biodegradable GF/PBAT composite was developed by chain extender ADR 4370, incorporating environmentally friendly GF with excellent mechanical properties into PBAT.
Playing the System: Electoral Bias in the 2024 UK General Election
Authors: Pattie Charles , Cutts David
Published: October 2024

The UK's 2024 general election was the least proportional of modern times. Labour's substantial parliamentary majority rested on the smallest ever winning party vote share. The Conservatives, meanwhile, suffered one of their worst ever results. While political and economic events during the 2019–2024 Parliament were key to the outcome, the operation of the first past the post electoral system was also important. In 2024, it was strongly biased in Labour's favour and against the Conservatives, contributing substantially to the scale of their defeat and of Labour's victory, allowing Labour to parlay modest support into a large majority. This pro‐Labour bias was to a large extent a result of the much greater efficiency of Labour's geography of support. We place the relative Conservative‐Labour bias at the 2024 contest into a longer historical perspective, demonstrating that it marked the abrupt end of a ten‐year period in which electoral bias had favoured the Conservatives.
Cardiovascular disease in pregnancy: Prevalence and obstetric outcomes in a Swedish population‐based cohort study between 2000 and 2019
Authors: Svanvik Teresia , Ramakrishnan Rema , Svensson Martin , Albrektsson Henrik , Basic Carmen , Mandalenakis Zacharias , Rosengren Annika , Schaufelberger Maria , Thunström Erik , Knight Marian
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of cardiovascular disease during pregnancy (cardiovascular disease diagnosed before, during or up to 6 months after childbirth) and the risk of adverse outcomes associated with it have not been previously described in Sweden. This study examined trends in prevalence of cardiovascular disease and its association with maternal and perinatal outcomes, overall and by timing of diagnosis in relation to pregnancy.

Material and Methods

This population‐based observational retrospective cohort study consisted of women aged 15–49 years who were registered in the Swedish Medical Birth Register 2000–2019. Prevalence was defined as annual diagnosis of cardiovascular disease per pregnant woman as numerator and all pregnant women per year as denominator. Adverse maternal and perinatal outcomes were analyzed using time‐dependent Cox regression and Poisson regression models. Outcomes were obtained during and after childbirth up to 1 year postpartum, depending on the outcome.

Results

There were 2 069 107 births to 1 186 137 women (911 101 primiparous). The prevalence of cardiovascular disease among pregnant women in Sweden during 2000–2019 increased from 0.31% to 1.34%, for non‐congenital cardiovascular disease, this was primarily driven by arrythmia (0.11%–0.58%). Primiparous women with cardiovascular disease had a higher risk of eclampsia over‐all (aHR 4.50, 95% CI 2.01–10.05) and when diagnosed during pregnancy (aHR 3.22, 95% CI 1.21–8.61); admission to psychiatric ward overall (aHR 2.51, 95% CI 1.30–4.83), and when diagnosed during pregnancy (aHR 2.54, 95% CI 1.21–5.34); and one‐year mortality when diagnosed before pregnancy (aHR 1.67, 95% CI 1.16–2.42) and when diagnosed postpartum (aHR 6.59, 95% CI 3.38–12.84), compared to those without cardiovascular disease. Children born to women with cardiovascular disease diagnosed both overall and in relation to timing of diagnosis had an increased risk of being born preterm and small for gestational age.

Conclusions

Cardiovascular disease prevalence among pregnant women in Sweden increased during 2000–2019, primarily driven by arrhythmias. In primiparous women, the timing of diagnosis of cardiovascular disease is important for maternal and perinatal outcomes, including when diagnosed postpartum. This calls for awareness among all staff when planning pregnancy and monitoring women with cardiovascular disease throughout pregnancy and in the postpartum period.
High chloride induces aldosterone resistance in the distal nephron
Authors: Vitzthum Helga , Hauswald Nina , Pham Helena , Eckermann‐Reimer Leya , Meyer‐Schwesinger Catherine , Ehmke Heimo
Published: October 2024

Aim

Increasing the dietary intake of K+ in the setting of a high salt intake promotes renal Na+ excretion even though K+ concurrently enhances the secretion of aldosterone, the most effective stimulus for renal Na+ reabsorption. Here, we questioned whether in the high salt state a mechanism exists, which attenuates the aldosterone response to prevent renal Na+ reabsorption after high K+ intake.

Methods

Mice were fed diets containing varying amounts of Na+ combined with KCl or KCitrate. Murine cortical connecting duct (mCCDcl1) cells were cultured in media containing normal or high [Cl−]. The response to aldosterone was analyzed by high‐resolution imaging and by biochemical approaches.

Results

The canonical cellular response to aldosterone, encompassing translocation of the mineralocorticoid receptor (MR) and activation of the epithelial Na+ channel ENaC was repressed in Na+‐replete mice fed a high KCl diet, even though plasma aldosterone concentrations were increased. The response to aldosterone was restored in Na+‐replete mice when the extracellular [Cl−] increase was prevented by feeding a high KCitrate diet. In mCCDcl1 cells, an elevated extracellular [Cl−] was sufficient to disrupt the aldosterone‐induced MR translocation.

Conclusion

These findings indicate a pivotal role for extracellular [Cl−] in modulating renal aldosterone signaling to adapt MR activation by a high K+ intake to the NaCl balance. An impairment of [Cl−]‐mediated aldosterone resistance may contribute to excessive MR activation by aldosterone in the presence of a high salt intake characteristic of the Western diet, resulting in an inappropriate salt reabsorption and its downstream detrimental effects.
Ethics and Entrepreneurship: How Recent Unanticipated Externalities Change the Scope A Bibliometric Analysis and Research Agenda
Authors: Mejri Issam , Le Loarne Lemaire Séverine , Bertrand Gael , Maalaoui Adnan , Maran Thomas
Published: October 2024

This paper aims to provide a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the current state of ethics and entrepreneurship research by using bibliometric and content analysis. Focusing on 579 papers published between 1988 and 2023, it highlights how recent, unanticipated global challenges—such as the need to combat climate change, ongoing conflicts, and pandemics—have profoundly influenced and revitalized the field. The content analysis reveals that “entrepreneurial ethics” has evolved to encompass a broad range of subtopics and debates. We analyzed the data in four time periods: 1988–2002, 2003–2008, 2009–2016, and 2017–2023 to identify the intellectual foundation of each period and the evolution of the research on the topic. What emerges is that recent research on the societal impact of entrepreneurship has expanded significantly, now covering 11 distinct research areas. This indicates that entrepreneurial ethics has become a widespread theme in entrepreneurship research, rather than an isolated sub‐field, with a notable focus on the identities of entrepreneurs, particularly women and family‐owned business. Additionally, this paper contributes to the literature on technology entrepreneurship by highlighting the limited attention given to the ethical issues that entrepreneurs face when working with new technologies and innovation, despite major external shifts in the environment. Furthermore, this research reinforces earlier findings that entrepreneurial ethics remains heavily influenced by the principles of corporate social responsibility (CSR). It also highlights the tendency to conflate entrepreneurial ethics with social entrepreneurship, underscoring the need for a more holistic approach to ethics in entrepreneurship research to better understand the interconnectedness of these two domains.
Climate‐Smart Invasive Species Management for 21st Century Global Change Challenges
Authors: Colberg Eva M. , Bradley Bethany A. , Morelli Toni Lyn , Brown‐Lima Carrie J.
Published: October 2024

Addressing the global challenges of climate change and biotic invasions requires understanding their interactions and implications for natural resource management. To facilitate and support invasive species management in a changing climate, we review how climate change and invasions interact to impact the planning, action, and outcomes of invasive species management. Climate change is facilitating the introduction of new potential invasive species and altering pathways of introduction and spread, with implications for which species natural resource managers need to assess, monitor, and target. Climate‐driven shifts in invasive species phenology require more flexible management timelines. Climate change may reduce the efficacy and feasibility of current treatment methods and make native ecosystems more vulnerable to invasion. Additionally, disturbance caused by extreme climate events can compound the spread and impacts of biological invasions, making invasive species management a necessary part of extreme event preparation and response planning. As a solution to these challenges, we propose climate‐smart invasive species management, which we define as the approaches that managers and decision‐makers can take to address the interactive effects of climate change and invasions. Climate‐smart invasive species management includes considering potential shifts in species ranges, abundances, and impacts to inform monitoring, treatment, and policies to prevent new invasive species. Climate‐smart management may also involve adjusting the timing and type of treatment to maintain efficacy, promoting resilient ecosystems through climate‐smart restoration, and considering the effects of climate change when setting management goals. Explicitly considering the interactions of climate change and biological invasions within organizational decision‐making and policy can lead to more effective management and promote more resilient landscapes.
Integrating ERT and SP Techniques for Characterizing Aquifers and Surface‐Groundwater Interactions
Authors: Mamud Md Lal , Holt Robert M. , Hickey Craig J. , O'Reilly Andrew M. , Wodajo Leti T. , Bakhtiari Rad Parsa , Samad Md Abdus
Published: October 2024

This study enhances the understanding of riverbank filtration and improves management of the Mississippi River valley alluvial (MRVA) aquifer during a managed aquifer recharge (MAR) pilot project at Shellmound, MS. Using high‐resolution electrical resistivity tomography (ERT) and self‐potential (SP) geophysical methods, we characterized the heterogeneous MRVA aquifer and monitored groundwater flow near a pumping well. ERT was used to provide detailed spatial characterization, filling gaps left by airborne electromagnetic (AEM) data and soil boring logs, while SP techniques were used to monitor groundwater flow, predict drawdown trends, and investigate surface‐groundwater interactions. Results showed that SP signals were influenced by groundwater flow, river infiltration, and water mixing due to pumping disturbance of natural geochemical stratification, with significant river interaction observed after 1 h of pumping. The integration of ERT and SP methods revealed lithologic heterogeneity, explaining greater drawdowns on the northern side of the well and increased flow from the riverside. This comprehensive approach offers valuable insights into aquifer management and sustainability.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis of non‐SCORTEN predictors of mortality in Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis
Authors: Stewart Thomas Jonathan , Shah Hemali , Frew John
Published: October 2024

Stevens‐Johnson syndrome (SJS) and toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) are rare, severe cutaneous adverse reactions that result in in‐hospital death in 12–49% of cases. The severity‐of‐illness score for toxic epidermal necrolysis (SCORTEN) is the most widely used mortality prognosis score; however, it has been shown to have critical limitations. Other mortality predictors not incorporated in SCORTEN or other predictor tools are being increasingly reported. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to synthesize and evaluate the predictors of mortality in adults with Stevens‐Johnson syndrome and toxic epidermal necrolysis not included in SCORTEN. It was registered with the International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis Protocols (INPLASY) and conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) reporting guidelines. Potential bias was assessed using the National Institutes of Health (NIH) criteria. Forty articles describing results from 52,398 cases were included. Sixteen predictors were reported in five or more articles, and thirty‐three were reported in two to four articles. Meta‐analysis showed preexisting renal disease (odds ratio (OR): 3.14, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.99–4.97, P < 0.0001, I2 = 21%), renal involvement (OR: 5.62, 95% CI: 2.29–13.77, P = 0.0002, I2 = 36%), respiratory involvement (OR: 3.14, 95% CI: 1.25–7.92, P = 0.015, I2 = 66%), diabetes mellitus (OR: 1.87, 95% CI: 1.21–2.89, P = 0.005, I2 = 19%), sepsis (OR: 5.64, 95% CI: 2.81–11.29, P < 0.0001, I2 = 63%), comorbidity (OR: 9.13, 95% CI: 4.60–18.12, P < 0.0001, I2 = 0%), and time to hospitalization (OR: 2.56, 95% CI: 1.15–5.65, P = 0.021, I2 = 93) increased risk of mortality. This systematic review and meta‐analysis support several clinical and laboratory parameters not included in SCORTEN (preexisting renal disease, renal involvement, respiratory involvement, diabetes mellitus, sepsis, comorbidities, and time to hospitalization) as predictors of mortality in adults with SJS/TEN. The future utilization of these factors may improve mortality prognostication in adults with SJS/TEN.
Association Between Changes in Central Blood Pressure and Peripheral Blood Pressure With New‐Onset Hypertension in a Chinese Community‐Based Population
Authors: Li Kaiyin , Fan Fangfang , Gao Lan , Jia Jia , Jiang Yimeng , Li Jianping , Zhang Yan , Huo Yong
Published: October 2024

Spot central and peripheral blood pressure are predictors for future hypertension, but the associations between central or peripheral systolic blood pressure (SBP) changes and new‐onset hypertension are unclear. Annual changes in central and peripheral SBP over a mean interval of 2.36 years were calculated for 815 Chinese community residents without cardiovascular disease and hypertension at the first two visits, with the formula: ([2nd SBP−1st SBP]/1st SBP) × 100%/time interval (years). The independent and joint associations of these SBP changes with new‐onset hypertension at the third visit were assessed with multivariable logistic regression models. During a mean follow‐up interval of 4.37 years since the second visit, 171 new cases of hypertension were observed. Central and peripheral SBP changes were significantly associated with new‐onset hypertension (central SBP change rate: odds ratio [OR]: 1.19 [95% confidence intervals (CI) 1.13, 1.26]; peripheral SBP change rate: OR: 1.25 [95% CI 1.17, 1.33]), even after adjusting for each other. Compared to the group with neither SBP increased, the group with both SBPs increased showed a significantly higher risk of new‐onset hypertension (OR: 4.52 [95% CI 2.54, 8.04]). The model including both SBP changes had a higher area under the curve (AUC) for predicting hypertension in receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses than those with either change alone. Central and peripheral SBP changes are independently and jointly associated with new‐onset hypertension. It is recommended to regularly monitor both central and peripheral blood pressures.
The Rise of Remote Work Evidence on Productivity and Preferences From Firm and Worker Surveys
Authors: Bartik Alexander , Cullen Zoë , Glaeser Ed , Luca Michael , Stanton Christopher
Published: October 2024

Drawing on surveys of small business owners and employees, we present three main findings about the evolution of remote work after the onset of COVID‐19. First, uptake of remote work was abrupt and widespread in jobs suitable for telework according to the task‐based measure from Dingel and Neiman (2020). The initial adoption lead to a persistent shift in work arrangements that both firms and workers forecast would continue into the future. Second, business leaders' perceptions of how remote work affected productivity shifted over time. In early 2020, 70% of small business owners reported a productivity dip due to remote work. By contrast, the median business owner reported a positive productivity impact of remote work by 2021. Third, 21% of workers report being willing to accept a pay cut in excess of 10% if it allowed them to continue working from home, but the median worker in a teleworkable job would not tradeoff any compensation for the option of continued remote work. Taken together, our evidence points to perceived productivity gains and some workers' preferences as reasons for the persistence of remote work in the years following the onset of COVID‐19.
Ultrasound‐Assisted Extraction of Bioactive Compounds From Sucupira (Pterodon pubescens) Fruit: Chemical Characterization and Antimicrobial Activity
Authors: Alves Israel Luna , Martins Caroline Carboni , Cacciatore Fabíola Ayres , da Silva Malheiros Patricia , Marczak Ligia Damasceno Ferreira , Flôres Simone Hickmann , Mercali Giovana Domeneghini
Published: October 2024

The sucupira fruit (Pterodon pubescens) contains a valuable oil characterized by high levels of fatty acids and an abundance of bioactive compounds, such as flavonoids and terpenoids. This study aimed to evaluate the use of ultrasound‐assisted extraction to obtain sucupira fruit oil through a complete 22 factorial rotational design. The effects of ultrasound intensity (%) and ethanol concentration (%) on lipid content, antioxidant capacity, color, and reducing capacity were assessed. The maximum lipid content was 26.9/100 g, which was significantly higher than that obtained by the Soxhlet method (23.4/100 g). The extract obtained at the optimized conditions (90% ultrasound intensity and 80% ethanol concentration) showed antimicrobial activity against Salmonella and Escherichia coli cocktails. Compounds such as β‐caryophyllene, caryophyllene oxide, α‐humulene, α‐copaene, and spathulenol, responsible for biologically relevant activities, were identified in the extract through GC/GC–MS. HPLC–MS/MS identified compounds such as catechin, luteolin, quercetin, taxifolin, among others.