bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk of Blindness From Temple Filler Injections: Investigating Vascular Anastomoses Between the Deep Temporal and Ophthalmic Arteries
Authors: Sheth Nishita T. , Hauck Erik F. , Bibawy Joseph M. , Lee Irene T. , Dermarkarian Christopher R. , Saadat David , Woodward Julie A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose:

Soft-tissue filler injections, particularly hyaluronic acid, are popular for temple volume restoration. Although uncommon, this area poses risk for vision loss from embolic occlusion. Guidelines recommend injecting into the supraperiosteal plane for safety; however, the deep temporal arteries (DTAs) in this plane pose a risk. This study investigates potential pathways from the DTA to the ophthalmic artery (OA) and mechanisms of filler travel.

Methods:

Retrospective analysis of carotid angiograms from patients with marked carotid artery stenosis or vascular malformations, given that collaterals are more visible in the presence of vascular blockages. Select cases were identified by the neurosurgery team.

Results:

Four anastomotic pathways between the DTA and OA were identified, displaying a combination of anterograde and retrograde flow. Case 1 shows direct DTA-lacrimal artery anastomosis. In cases 2 to 4, the DTA is shown originating from the internal maxillary artery (IMAX) following its anatomical course. Retrograde flow from the DTA into the IMAX can then lead to anterograde flow into branches connecting to the IMAX including the superficial temporal artery, infraorbital artery, and middle meningeal artery. These arteries then form collaterals with the OA.

Conclusions:

Our study is the first to elucidate 4 potential routes for filler-induced OA occlusion originating from DTAs in the supraperiosteal plane. These pathways involve retrograde flow, a mechanism previously suggested for filler-induced occlusion. Notably, the likelihood of these pathways being traversed may be low due to their length and amount of filler volume required; however, it is not impossible.
Umbilical Cord Amniotic Membrane Graft as a Skin Substitute in Periocular Reconstruction: A Case Series
Authors: Spadaro Jane Z. , Tur Komalpreet K. , Kahana Alon
Published: January 2025

Loss of periocular skin due to cancer, trauma, or surgery is a major reconstructive challenge; resultant tissue contracture can cause eyelid malposition with poor functional and aesthetic outcomes. We describe the successful use of cryopreserved umbilical cord amniotic membrane as a wound covering and scaffold for periorbital anterior lamellar defects. This is a retrospective case series of 4 patients (mean 21 years, range 9–30 years, 3 male) who underwent periocular reconstruction with umbilical cord amniotic membrane of 9 different sites. Follow-up time ranged from 10 to 22 months. All wounds healed successfully with a good functional eyelid position. Umbilical cord amniotic membrane is readily available, has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, provides a structural scaffold for cell adhesion and growth, and contains biological factors that promote cell proliferation/remodeling. We demonstrate that the umbilical cord amniotic membrane is an effective substitute for full-thickness skin grafting in the periocular area, particularly with skin loss secondary to burns and/or trauma.
Working Conditions in Complementary and Integrative Healthcare Professions
Authors: Whitley Margaret D. , Faydenko Jocelyn , Madigan Dana , Finnell John S.
Published: January 2025

Objective

The study aimed to describe working conditions among complementary and integrative healthcare (CIH) providers, specifically acupuncturists, chiropractors, massage therapists, midwives, and naturopathic doctors.

Methods

We used cross-sectional Occupational Information Network data (2013–2021) for five CIH occupations. We examined means and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for 10 variables that represented positive conditions, ergonomic demands, psychosocial demands, and schedule demands. We compared CIH to conventional healthcare and non-healthcare occupations.

Results

CIH occupations had relatively high degrees of positive conditions, moderate degrees of psychosocial demands, and moderate hours/scheduling. Massage therapists, chiropractors, and acupuncturists reported more ergonomic hazards (eg, 1–5 scale where 5 is the highest, mean bending/twisting frequency for chiropractors is 3.43 [95% CI, 3.80–4.05] compared to 2.17 for midwives [95% CI, 1.97–2.36] and 1.96 for managers [95% CI, 1.42–2.51]).

Conclusions

CIH occupations generally had healthy working conditions, although ergonomic hazards were prominent.
Too Soon to Breathe Easy
Authors: Creswell Paul D. , McCoy Katherine E. , Modji Komi K.S. , Morris Collin R. , Bedno Sheryl
Published: January 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to describe asbestosis morbidity and mortality in two statewide samples. We considered trends, demographic disparities, and excess mortality.

Methods

We assessed trends and demographic differences in asbestosis morbidity using hospital and emergency department (ED) visits. We calculated asbestosis mortality rates using vital records data and computed proportional mortality ratios (PMRs) to assess excess deaths by standardized industry and occupation codes.

Results

Asbestosis diagnoses peaked in 2008 and have declined since that time. Several occupations and industry codes, including those in Production/Manufacturing, Construction, and Transportation, were associated with an excess burden of asbestosis mortality.

Conclusions

Despite declining diagnoses, asbestosis remains a risk for workers. Our findings of excess mortality for Transportation-related industry and occupation codes are unique and may indicate previously unrecognized risks in these jobs.
Nomogram model based on serum chitotriosidase activity to predict coronary artery aneurysm in Kawasaki disease
Authors: Wang Rui , Wei Dan , Gu Min , Mi Jiao , Hu Xing , Pu Wanli
Published: January 2025

Objective

Kawasaki disease (KD) is a common children’s disease with unknown etiology, which easily involves coronary artery and causes serious cardiovascular sequelae. The purpose was to investigate the relationship between chitotriosidase activity and coronary artery aneurysm (CAA) and develop and validate a nomogram to predict CAA in KD patients.

Methods

A total of 338 KD patients were included in this study. Differences analysis compared baseline characteristics and multivariate logistic regression analysis to determine independent risk factors for CAA in KD patients. Based on this independent risk factor, the nomogram was constructed and validated.

Results

Of 338 KD patients, 107 patients developed CAA. Multivariate logistic regression analysis identified that low-density lipoprotein (LDL) [odds ratio (OR):1.456, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.062–1.996], age (OR: 0.986, 95% CI: 0.974–0.998), neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (OR: 1.098, 95% CI: 1.020–1.182), and chitotriosidase activity (OR: 1.115, 95% CI: 1.111–1.192) were independent predictors for CAA. The nomogram was established based on serum chitotriosidase activity and clinical characteristics, and this nomogram has demonstrated to be of potential value in clinical practice using the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis.

Conclusion

LDL, age, NLR, and chitotriosidase activity were independent risk factors for CAA. Based on this independent risk factor, the nomogram was constructed to guide clinicians to effectively predict CAA and adopt appropriate interventions such as more aggressive anti-inflammatory and more frequent follow-up.
Limited Reconstructive Options of Jaw Osteomyelitis in the Osteopetrosis Patient Complicated by Blood Dyscrasia
Authors: Mustakim Kezia Rachellea , Eo Mi Young , Kim Soung Min
Published: January 2025

Osteopetrosis is a rare systemic skeletal disorder characterized by increased bone density and mass resulting from suboptimal or impaired resorption of osteoclastic bone. Compromised bone marrow function and associated disorders of red blood cells contribute to hematopoietic abnormalities, which exacerbate the risk of complex, recurrent infections such as jaw osteomyelitis. This case report describes the treatment of a 68-year-old Korean female with autosomal-dominant osteopetrosis who presented with severe and persistent jaw osteomyelitis complicated by hematopoietic dysregulation. Clinical findings included skin necrosis, purpura, and ecchymosis, which were likely due to underlying hematopoietic insufficiency and impaired wound healing. Despite suboptimal conservative interventions, partial mandibulectomy was ultimately unavoidable. Reconstruction was performed with a pectoralis major myocutaneous flap, as microvascular and osteocutaneous flaps were not viable due to limitation of the patient’s vessels and bone marrow. Conservative debridement, rigorous wound care, and transfusion support were essential to manage the infection and promote healing. This case underscores the challenges of treating osteomyelitis in patients with osteopetrosis, particularly given the likelihood of systemic hematopoietic compromise and a suboptimal healing environment. Conservative approaches, supportive transfusions, and close monitoring of the skin and hematological complications are vital for achieving favorable outcomes.
Application Guide for Orofacial Myofunctional Screening in Spanish Health Services
Authors: Inostroza-Allende Felipe , Caviedes-Ulloa Cristobal , Soutullo Paula , Berretin-Felix Giédre
Published: January 2025

Orofacial myofunctional disorders impact essential activities such as eating, breathing, and speaking, and can present at any age. Early detection and management of orofacial myofunctional disorders are crucial to prevent long-term complications and improve users’ quality of life. This brief clinical study introduces an application guide for an orofacial myofunctional screening, designed for use by Spanish-speaking speech therapists. The guide aims to standardize the observation and recording, reducing subjectivity and enabling quick, reproducible evaluations in a single session. A 6-year-old boy was evaluated using this screening, which covered medical history, morphological, muscular, and sensory aspects, orofacial functions, and speech sounds. The study found the screening tool to be practical and viable, facilitating early detection and guiding more detailed evaluations and interventions.
Anatomic Changes of Patients With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome at Different Stages
Authors: Doğru Yuvarlakbaş Semahat , Boyan Neslihan , Kuleci Sedat , Balli Hüseyin Tuğsan
Published: January 2025

Aim:

In this study, it was aimed to determine the changes in the anatomic structures of individuals with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) classified according to the apnea-hypopnea index (AHI).

Materials and Methods:

Individuals were divided into groups as group 1 (AHI=0, n=20), group 2 (AHI ˂5, n=20), group 3 (AHI=5-15, n=20), group 4 (AHI=16-30, n=20), group 5 (AHI ˃30, n=20). The individuals left lateral cervical vertebra radiographs were taken. Measurements were made from the morphometric points determined using the “Enlil PACS” program on the radiologic images (mm). These measurements are categorized into soft tissue, hyoid bone, airway size, and craniofacial variables.

Results:

As AHI increased, age, body mass index, neck circumference, and Epworth Sleep Scale scores increased in all groups. Soft palate and tongue length, hyoid-mandible, hyoid-posterior pharyngeal wall, and hyoid-spina nasalis posterior distances lengthened. An increase was found between spina nasalis anterior, spina nasalis posterior, distance between condylion and gnathion, and total facial length and lower face length in all groups.

Conclusions:

It is thought that the results obtained due to the differentiation in anatomic structures may help the methods that will facilitate the diagnosis and treatment of OSAS.
INCREASED CITRULLINATED HISTONE H3 LEVELS AND ACCELERATED THROMBIN KINETICS IN TRAUMA PATIENTS WHO DEVELOP VENOUS THROMBOEMBOLISM
Authors: Navarro Sergio M. , Thompson Riley J. , MacArthur Taleen A. , Spears Grant M. , Bailey Kent R. , Immermann Joe M. , Yudin Nikoli , Dong Jing-Fei , Kozar Rosemary A. , Park Myung S.
Published: January 2025

Background

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), and its formation and release, known as NETosis, may play a role in the initiation of thrombin generation (TG) in trauma. The objective of this study was to assess whether trauma patients, who develop symptomatic venous thromboembolism (VTE), have increased levels of plasma citrullinated histone H3 (CitH3) and accelerated TG kinetics.

Methods

Patients presenting to a Level I Trauma Center as trauma activations had samples collected within 12 hours of time of injury (TOI), alongside healthy volunteers (HV). CitH3 was measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay, and TG data were measured using a thrombin generation analyzer, comparing results between patients developing symptomatic VTE vs those who did not, within 90 days of injury. Data were expressed as median and quartiles [Q1, Q3], and tested using Wilcoxon rank-sum or Fisher’s exact test, or 1-sample test of Spearman’s correlation, p < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

39 trauma patient samples were analyzed (10 with and 29 without VTE), and compared to 15 HV samples. CitH3 levels in patients who developed VTE were significantly greater as compared to those who did not (12.8 ng/mL [7.1, 30.8]; 3.0 ng/mL [1.8,6.8], p = 0.024), with levels in both groups greater compared to HV (1.2 [0.3, 4.1], p = 0.003, p = 0.012), respectively. TG profiles were accelerated in patients developing VTE, with differences in peak height (337.6 nM [304.4, 356.0]; 231.8 nM [180.2, 281.8], p = 0.008), endogenous thrombin potential (1718.5 nM*min [1500, 1794]; 1208.5 nM*min (1072, 1417], p = 0.003) and velocity index (213.2 nM/min [162.3, 260.5]; 124.3 nM/min [93.2, 223.1], p = 0.03), respectively.

Conclusions

Trauma patients developing VTE exhibit increased NETosis, measured by increased CitH3 levels and accelerated TG early after injury, outlining an area for further understanding VTE after trauma.
Combined Effects of Oxandrolone and Exercise on Muscle Recovery in Rats with Severe Burn and Hindlimb Unloading
Authors: Palackic Alen , El Ayadi Amina , Wade Charles E. , Baer Lisa A. , Branski Ludwik K. , Hundeshagen Gabriel , Kleinhapl Julia , Wolf Steven E. , Song Juquan
Published: January 2025

Background

Loss of muscle mass and strength in patients who have experienced severe burns is dramatic and associated with subsequent functional impairment. Past work has shown that exercise and oxandrolone, an anabolic steroid, individually improve muscle function and muscle mass in severely burned patients. This study aims to evaluate the effect of oxandrolone treatment combined with resistance exercise on muscle atrophy and investigate the protein synthesis and mitochondrial biogenesis pathways in a hindlimb suspension model.

Methods

Twenty-four Sprague Dawley rats received 40% total body surface area (%TBSA) scald burns and were then placed for hindlimb unloading. All animals were randomly grouped into vehicle (corn oil) without exercise (V/NEX), oxandrolone administration (0.1 mg/kg/day) without exercise (OX/NEX), vehicle with exercise (V/EX), or oxandrolone with exercise (OX/EX). (n = 6/group). On day 14 isometric forces of the left plantaris and soleus muscle were measured by using a muscle lever system with dynamic muscle control and analysis software. Fatigue measurement was only performed in the soleus muscle. The tissue of the muscle was then collected for protein extraction. Western blots were performed to study signal alternations and mitochondrial biogenesis pathways.

Results

Tetanic force (Po) was significantly increased in the plantaris with exercise, rather than with oxandrolone treatment. Fatigue index (FI) was lower and integration was significantly elevated in the soleus with exercise but not with oxandrolone treatment. Fatigue curve in the soleus further revealed the average maximum force were achieved in soleus with either oxandrolone treatment or exercise alone independently. Raptor and p-Akt levels are elevated in the OX/EX group while PGC1a expression was not altered.

Conclusion

Oxandrolone and resistance exercise have independent positive effects on muscle function recovery in this clinically relevant rodent model of severe burn. Both treatments combined increased signaling pathways by increasing protein synthesis.
Gastrodin protects against sepsis-associated encephalopathy by suppressing ferroptosis
Authors: Xu Yunfei , Chen Jing , Zhou Lin , Zhao Yao , He Nina , Xu Qing , Zhao Jie , Liu Ying
Published: January 2025

Background

Sepsis-associated encephalopathy (SAE) represents a severe complication of sepsis, substantially elevating both mortality and healthcare costs for patients. Gastrodin (GAS), a principal bioactive constituent of Gastrodia elata Blume, is neuroprotective in various neurological disorders, including ischemic stroke, epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, and neuropathic pain. In this study, we sought to investigate whether GAS could serve as a protective agent against SAE.

Methods

Mice were subjected to cecal ligation and puncture (CLP) or the murine brain microvascular endothelial cell bEnd.3 was exposed to lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and subsequently treated with GAS. We assessed neurological deficits, blood-brain barrier (BBB) integrity, neuroinflammation, and the state of ferroptosis to evaluate the regulation of GAS on SAE. Mechanistically, we utilized glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) knockout mice to delineate the crucial role of GPX4 and examined the cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2)/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) pathway to uncover the upstream signaling of GPX4.

Results

GAS mitigated neurological deficits in SAE mice and reduced BBB disruption and neuroinflammation both in vivo and in vitro. Functionally, the neuroprotective effects of GAS were realized through the inhibition of ferroptosis. Furthermore, we demonstrated that GPX4 played a pivotal role in this process. Lastly, we found that the COX-2/PGE2 pathway was activated following GAS treatment in SAE mice, thereby increasing the expression level of GPX4.

Conclusions

Our study elucidated that GAS offers protection against SAE by suppressing ferroptosis through the activation of the COX-2/PGE2/GPX4 axis. This research validates the therapeutic potential of GAS and provides novel insights into potential therapeutic strategies for the management of SAE.
Transcriptome-wide outlier approach identifies individuals with minor spliceopathies
Authors: Arriaga Maggie T , Mendez Rodrigo , Ungar Rachel A , Bonner Devon E , Matalon Dena R , Lemire Gabrielle , Goddard Pagé C , Padhi Evin M , Miller Alexander M , Nguyen Jonathan V , Ma Jialan , Smith Kevin S , Scott Stuart A , Liao Linda , Ng Zena , Marwaha Shruti , Bademci Guney , Bivona Stephanie A , Tekin Mustafa ,   Undiagnosed Disease Network,   Genomics Research to Elucidate the Genetics of Rare Diseases consortium, Bernstein Jonathan A , Montgomery Stephen B , O'Donnell-Luria Anne , Wheeler Matthew T , Ganesh Vijay S
Published: January 2025

RNA-sequencing has improved the diagnostic yield of individuals with rare diseases. Current analyses predominantly focus on identifying outliers in single genes that can be attributed to cis-acting variants within or near that gene. This approach overlooks causal variants with trans-acting effects on splicing transcriptome-wide, such as variants impacting spliceosome function. We present a transcriptomics-first method to diagnose individuals with rare diseases by examining transcriptome-wide patterns of splicing outliers. Using splicing outlier detection methods - FRASER and FRASER2 - we identified splicing outliers from whole blood for 390 individuals from the Genomics Research to Elucidate the Genetics of Rare Diseases (GREGoR) and Undiagnosed Diseases Network (UDN) consortia. We examined all samples for excess intron retention events in minor intron containing genes. Minor introns, which make up about 0.5% of all introns in the human genome, are removed by small nuclear RNAs (snRNAs) in the minor spliceosome. This approach identified five cases with excess intron retention events in minor intron containing genes, all of which were found to harbor rare, biallelic variants in the minor spliceosome snRNAs. Four had rare, compound heterozygous variants in RNU4ATAC. These results led to the reclassification of four variants. Additionally, one case had rare, highly conserved, compound heterozygous variants in RNU6ATAC that may disrupt the formation of the catalytic spliceosome, suggesting a novel disease-gene candidate. These results demonstrate that examining RNA-sequencing data for known transcriptome-wide signatures can increase the diagnostic yield of individuals with rare diseases, provide variant-to-functional interpretation of spliceopathies, and potentially uncover novel disease genes.
Body Roundness Index Z-Scores and Hypertension
Authors: Wu Liangxiu , Du Shenshen , Lai Weicheng , Liu Mengxuan , Wu Yupeng , Qin Huayang , Lu Pinyou , Wu Qimeng , Liu Qian , Jie Qiao , Li Xin , Wu Liangyan
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Hypertension is a global health concern and a leading risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Central obesity, marked by abdominal fat, is more strongly linked to hypertension than general obesity. Traditional metrics like Body Mass Index (BMI) overlook fat distribution. This study examines the association between the Body Roundness Index (BRI) Z-score, a novel central obesity measure, and hypertension prevalence in China's middle-aged and older adults. Methods: Utilizing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS), we included 16,102 participants aged 45 years and above. BRI was calculated and standardized into Z-scores, with participants categorized into three groups (Q1-Q3). Logistic regression and restricted cubic spline models were used to evaluate the relationship between BRI Z-scores and hypertension prevalence, adjusting for confounders. Results: Higher BRI Z-score were significantly associated with increased hypertension prevalence (OR per unit increase: 1.39; 95% CI: 1.32-1.47, p < 0.0001). Subgroup analysis revealed that individuals in the highest BRI Z-score group (Q3) had a substantially elevated hypertension risk (OR: 2.33; 95% CI: 2.07-2.64). Additionally, BRI Z-score effectively identified early blood pressure abnormalities within the pre-hypertensive range (SBP 130-140 mmHg or DBP 80-90 mmHg). Conclusion: The BRI Z-score outperforms BMI in assessing hypertension risk by better capturing central obesity. Integrating it into clinical and public health strategies enables early screening and personalized interventions, especially in high-risk populations. These findings emphasize the need for novel obesity metrics to tackle the growing hypertension burden globally.
Study of quasi-two-body
B0→T(ππ,KK¯,πη)
decays in perturbative QCD approach
Authors: Mu Lun-Lian , Yu Xian-Qiao
Published: January 2025

In this study, we calculate the CP-averaged branching ratios and the direct CP-violating asymmetries of the three body decays B0→T(ππ,KK¯,πη) in the perturbative QCD approach, where T denotes tensor mesons a2(1320), K2*(1430), f2(1270), and f2′(1525), and the daughter branching is f0(980)→ππ,KK¯,f0(500)→ππ, a0(980)→KK¯,πη. By introducing two-meson distribution amplitudes parametrized by the timelike form factors, the three-body decay is simplified to quasi-two-body decay. The scalar mesons a0(980), f0(980), and f0(500) are regarded as the lowest-lying qq¯ state, considering the effect of mixing angle θ between f0(980) and f0(500), ϕ between f2(1270) and f2′(1525) on our calculations. We found the following. (a) With θ=135°, we evaluate the branching fractions of B0→K2*(1430)0f0(980)[→π+π−] to be 4.30×10−6,then under the narrow-width approximation we extract the branching fraction of the decayB0→K2*(1430)0f0(980) to be 8.78×10−6, which is consistent with the current experimental data well. (b) The decay rates for the considered decay modes are generally in the order of 10−8 to 10−5. (c) The branching fractions are sensitive to the θ, and the opposite is true for ϕ. The ϕ is really small, so the decay branching ratio has only little change, except for some decays involving f2′(1525). (d) The θ and ϕ can bring remarkable change to the direct CP asymmetries of pure penguin processes so that it is not 0. (e) We calculate the relative partial decay widths Γ(a0→KK¯)/Γ(a0→πη) and the ratio B(f0→K+K−)/B(f0→π+π−), which are in agreement with the existing experimental values. Our results can help one to understand the internal structure of scalar mesons and the nature of tensor mesons and can be tested by future experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Fractional quantum Hall effect in higher dimensions
Authors: Agarwal Abhishek , Karabali Dimitra , Nair V. P.
Published: January 2025

Generalizing from previous work on the integer quantum Hall effect, we construct the effective action for the analog of Laughlin states for the fractional quantum Hall effect in higher dimensions. The formalism is a generalization of the parton picture used in two spatial dimensions, the crucial ingredient being the cancellation of anomalies for the gauge fields binding the partons together. Some subtleties which exist even in two dimensions are pointed out. The effective action is obtained from a combination of the Dolbeault and Dirac index theorems. We also present expressions for some transport coefficients such as Hall conductivity and Hall viscosity for the fractional states.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Stability and Mobility of Disconnections in Solute Atmospheres: Insights from Interfacial Defect Diagrams
Authors: Hu Chongze , Medlin Douglas L. , Dingreville Rémi
Published: January 2025

This Letter explores the stability of disconnections (step-dislocation defects) at grain boundaries in binary alloys. We introduce interfacial defect diagrams, derived from atomistic simulations and segregation theory, to predict the stability of disconnections in the temperature-solute concentration phase space and relate it to governing segregation mechanisms. These diagrams reveal multiple stability regimes influenced by solute-induced clustering and pinning effects impacting the thermal migration of disconnections and offering insights into their thermodynamics and kinetic properties.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Quantum resonant dimensionality reduction
Authors: Yang Fan , Wang Furong , Xu Xusheng , Gao Pan , Xin Tao , Wei ShiJie , Long Guilu
Published: January 2025

Quantum computing is a promising candidate for accelerating machine learning tasks. Limited by the control accuracy of current quantum hardware, reducing the consumption of quantum resources is the key to achieving quantum advantage. Here, we propose a quantum resonant dimensionality reduction (QRDR) algorithm based on the quantum resonant transition to reduce the dimension of input data and accelerate the quantum machine learning algorithms. After QRDR, the dimension of input data N can be reduced into the desired scale R, and the effective information of the original data will be preserved correspondingly, which will reduce the computational complexity of subsequent quantum machine learning algorithms or quantum storage. QRDR operates with polylogarithmic time complexity and reduces the error dependency from the order of 1/ε3 to the order of 1/ε, compared to existing algorithms. Meanwhile, by avoiding quantum phase estimation, the consumed qubits in QRDR is independent on error ε. Therefore, compared with existing algorithms, our algorithm has achieved the optimal performance in terms of time complexity and space complexity. We demonstrate the performance of our algorithm combining with two types of quantum classifiers, quantum support vector machines and quantum convolutional neural networks, for classifying underwater detection targets and quantum many-body phase, respectively. The simulation results indicate that reduced data extremely improved the processing efficiency following the application of QRDR. As quantum machine learning continues to advance, our algorithm has the potential to be utilized in a variety of computing fields.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Navigating the dimensions of criticality: exploring reflective processes in critical entrepreneurship education
Authors: Bohlayer Carina , Timm Jana-Michaela , Halberstadt Jantje
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Critical entrepreneurship education (CEE) has the potential to foster learners’ critical thinking and to contribute to renewed entrepreneurial action beyond mere business creation. However, despite the growing recognition of (critical) entrepreneurship’s potential in research and practice, there is still a lack of clarity about its definition and scope in general and from a learner’s perspective in particular. We create a more detailed understanding of how students' reflective processes relate to criticality in CEE.

Design/methodology/approach

Delving into reflective processes, we examine students’ learning in a course, which we conducted five times at two German universities. We analyze written reflection logs of 84 students (707 pages), supplemented with group discussions.

Findings

Our findings illustrate learners’ reflective processes (reflectively engaging with others, reflectively understanding entrepreneurship, reflectively transforming the self) and explore how these facilitate learners’ transitions within the valence, paradigmatic and (newly added) narrative dimensions in CEE.

Originality/value

Our research contributes a learner-centered, three-dimensional framework of CEE, in which reflection is the central mechanism driving movement and hence learning within this space. To develop this framework, we draw upon insights from Dey et al.’s (2023) framework on critical entrepreneurship research and transformative learning (Mezirow, 1991) vis-à-vis our fieldwork material.
International and Islamic perspectives on the right and access to education for refugees: Malaysia’s response
Authors: Mohd Nor Aishah , Rahmat Nur Ezan , Nadzari Dhiyauddin Athir
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Refugees commonly face inequitable access to education in their host countries. The purpose of this study is to examine the related laws and policies on the right of education for refugees from the international perspective; to explore the issues from the Islamic perspective; and to analyse Malaysia’s response to the international conventions, specifically in its implementation of educational access and services.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative study uses an exploratory approach, reviewing materials such as books, journals, reports and newspaper articles to identify international conventions and Islamic perspectives on the rights to education for refugees. An analysis of Malaysia’s response to the rights to education for refugees was conducted to highlight the implementation of educational access and services for refugees in Malaysia.

Findings

This study reveals the existing rights and access to education for refugees from the international and Islamic perspectives. However, in Malaysia, there is a lack of a domestic legal framework governing refugees which limits access to basic human rights including education.

Research limitations/implications

This study focuses on the rights and access to education.

Practical implications

The lack of adequate and quality access to education for refugees in host countries will likely increase illiteracy levels and subsequently trigger societal and financial strife in the long run. This research emphasizes the importance of developing an adequate framework and strategic plan of action for better access and services for refugee education in Malaysia.

Social implications

A lack of research and engagement on the rights and access to education services may come at the expense of refugees. An adequate framework and strategic plan of action incorporating access to education services for refugees are necessary to support refugees in enhancing their quality of life and creating a safer environment reducing the possibility of exploitation, abuse or harm. This study may generate interest and create awareness of refugee education in Malaysia, especially among advocates and policymakers interested in such groups.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the discussion on the right and access to education for refugees from the international and Islamic perspectives, while also examining Malaysia’s response to its implementation. Refugees displaced to Malaysia have become a matter of concern that should be addressed by academic researchers, activists and official authorities. The findings demonstrate the urgency of developing an adequate framework and strategic plan of action to minimize disparities in education access among refugees. Further research is still needed, as very limited research has been conducted on this topic, particularly in developing countries like Malaysia.
Can financial agglomeration weaken the role of logistics accessibility in promoting enterprise specialization? Evidence from Chinese manufacturing industry
Authors: Liu Zhiqiang , Wang Chenmiao
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study explores whether and how financial agglomeration affects enterprise specialization, and whether it weakens the division effects of logistics accessibility.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the panel data of A-share listed companies in the Chinese manufacturing industry from 2010 to 2018, the authors test the hypotheses of the research framework by constructing a double fixed effect model.

Findings

First, for every 1% increase in financial agglomeration and logistics accessibility, enterprise specialization will increase by 1.8% and 5.6%. Meanwhile, financial agglomeration weakens the division effects of logistics accessibility. After a multiple robustness test, the above conclusions still hold. Second, the mechanism test shows that financial agglomeration can promote enterprise specialization through cost saving effect, scale expansion effect and technological progress effect. Third, financial agglomeration has a stronger positive impact and negative moderating effect on enterprise specialization in periphery areas and small-scale enterprises, but logistics accessibility is more likely to increase enterprise specialization in core regions and small-scale firms.

Practical implications

In the context of the global value chain (GVC) reshaping caused by the transformation of the international situation, exploring the relationship among financial agglomeration, logistics accessibility and enterprise specialization based on China’s experience can be an important insight for other emerging economies to enhance their position in the GVC.

Originality/value

The above findings enrich the literature on the division of labor among firms and contribute to the further improvement of GVC theory and division theory.
Exploring response levels to sustainability in engineering curricula: a cross-case analysis
Authors: Gutierrez-Bucheli Laura , Reid Alan , Kidman Gillian , Lamborn Julia
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore how engineering curricula can address sustainability considerations. Through a cross-case analysis, a hybrid theoretical-empirical model is developed to identify and analyse a broad range of possible and actual responses to sustainability within engineering education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a multiple-case study design to compare the experiences of educators and students engaging with sustainability topics in two contrasting tertiary civil engineering programs. It draws on an original conceptual framework informed by the literature for analysing educational responses to sustainability around the world, which can be applied to a diverse range of educational settings. Conceptual review, fieldwork, case-specific and cross-case analysis have been used to refine the framework, enabling the emergence of a hybrid model.

Findings

The hybrid model suggests three levels of response to sustainability in engineering education, which can be characterised as: 1) incorporation, 2) integration and 3) transformation. Each level is analysed in relation to five dimensions: functions, content, relationships, spaces and time, which influence the nature of the response and its capacity to foster learning. Cross-case analysis findings suggest that the shape and focus of a particular response to sustainability are significantly influenced by both the types of engineering problems, and the diversity and extent of relationships that engineering educators and students engage during teaching and learning.

Practical implications

Cross-case analysis reveals that developing and supporting (inter)subjective relationships can play a pivotal role in fostering a transformation level of response. Engagement with Indigenous, more-than-human and interdisciplinary perspectives in engineering education for sustainability can also be critical to deepening students’ reflexivity.

Originality/value

The study helps ground theory-driven frameworks for analysing the nature and purpose of responses to sustainability in engineering education, and higher education more broadly. The study also offers a novel hybrid model for identifying and classifying responses to sustainability in engineering education and other disciplines.
Fostering employment match? Graduates’ internships and early professional experiences between individuals’ choices and institutional constraints
Authors: Romanò Sara , Nazio Tiziana
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In Italy, internships were introduced in higher education to ease graduates’ entry into the labor market, addressing youth unemployment and overeducation attributed to low job-specific skills. We investigate whether internships during and after the degree program improve employment quality, specifically in terms of coherence between the job obtained and the educational-level achieved.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ both a longitudinal approach and Propensity Score Matching (PSM) to examine the associations between curricular and extracurricular internships, and the number of job episodes after graduation, with the risk of overeducation among master’s graduates.

Findings

The findings suggest that curricular internships, if at all, do not affect the likelihood of obtaining a matching qualified job. Extracurricular internships are instead associated with a higher risk of overeducation. Additionally, the risk of overeducation does not decrease with more job episodes and even rises in the South, where opportunities are scarcer. We conclude that internships may help secure employment but at the cost of overeducation for graduates.

Originality/value

This study fills a gap by analyzing the impact of both curricular and extracurricular internships on employment quality in terms of occupational coherence. In doing so, it assesses policies on graduates' professional experiences over the last 20 years. By employing both longitudinal analysis and PSM quasi-experimental models, it aims to address selection bias related to unobserved characteristics in observational datasets and panel attrition. Theoretically, it advances by analyzing the determinants of overeducation while accounting for territorial differences in labor demand, and better assessing the contrasting predictions of human capital vs credentialist theories.
Unveiling WCM and firm performance relationship: evidence from Shariah compliance United Kingdom firms
Authors: Kayani Umar , Hasan Fakhrul , Choudhury Tonmoy , Nawaz Farrukh
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the realtionship between the strategic maneuvers in working capital management (WCM) and the ensuing corporate performance, chiefly within the purview of companies aligned with Shariah-compliant financial practices during epochs of fiscal distress.

Design/methodology/approach

This study deploys a fixed effect regression model to dissect the WCM-performance nexus for Shariah and non-Shariah compliance firms in the UK. Here, the authors used FTSE 350 index data from 1990 till 2022. The authors used return on assets, return on equity and net profit margin as the dependent variables and they used working capital as the independent variable. Finally, a set of different control variables including, size, leverage, dividend and research and development. Furthermore, for robust purposes, the authors use the system generalized method of moments estimation.

Findings

The findings reveal a significant relationship between WCM and firm performance across different crisis periods. Effective WCM is associated with improved profitability and stability in firms. This study shows that firms with efficient WCM strategies were better positioned to navigate the financial turmoil of the GFC, the operational disruptions during COVID-19 and the economic impacts of the Russia–Ukraine conflict.

Originality/value

This research provides a significant perspective by spotlighting Sharia-compliant entities, thus charting new territory in the strategic finance discourse. In addition, the focus on Shariah-compliant firms introduces a novel perspective within the financial management domain, offering valuable insights for both academic researchers and financial practitioners.
Enhancing TVET students’ interest in mathematics through the history of mathematics and self-efficacy
Authors: Arthur Yarhands Dissou , De Vittori Thomas , Welcome Natalie B. , Dogbe Courage Simon Kofi , Asare Bright
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the mediating role of mathematics self-efficacy in the relationship between the history of mathematics (HIST) and the interest in mathematics.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey research design was adopted, with a quantitative research approach. The study adopted a convenience sampling technique to select 219 Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVET) students (level 100 to 400) from a public university in Ghana. Structural equation modelling (SEM) and a bias-corrected percentile method of bootstrapping were run in AMOS (v. 23), to estimate the path coefficients.

Findings

The study found that the HIST significantly influences both the student’s interest in mathematics and their mathematics self-efficacy. Furthermore, mathematics self-efficacy was found to significantly affect students' interest in mathematics and partially mediate the relationship between the HIST and students' interest.

Research limitations/implications

The study was confined to TVET students in a single public university in Ghana. Future studies may consider TVET students in other disciplines in other universities within or outside Ghana to increase generalization.

Originality/value

There is a shortage of empirical studies that specifically examine how self-efficacy mediates the relationship between the HIST as a teaching tool and students' interest in mathematics. Also, while previous studies have examined the role of pedagogical approaches in mathematics education, there is a lack of research focusing on the impact of historical context on students' interest, particularly within TVET settings.
Mapping psychological adjustment in third culture kids: the relative contributions of emotion regulation, cognition, resilience and stress
Authors: Marchal Jones Emma , Reed Marnie Olivia , Meyer Andrea , Gaab Jens , Ooi Yoon Phaik
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This cross-sectional investigation explores the relative importance of specific psychological factors influencing adjustment in a sample of internationally mobile children and adolescents, commonly referred to as third culture kids (TCKs), living in Switzerland.

Design/methodology/approach

The study cohort comprised 126 participants aged 7–17 years, all of whom had experienced international relocations due to their parents' professional commitments. Participants were recruited from local and international schools in Switzerland, and data were collected through validated online questionnaires after obtaining informed consent. The study focused on proximal psychological factors, including emotion regulation strategies (such as cognitive reappraisal and emotion suppression), negative social cognition, resilience and perceived stress, assessing their impact on psychological adjustment. Outcomes were measured through indicators of well-being and mental health, including emotional and behavioral symptoms.

Findings

Commonality analysis was used to evaluate the relative contributions of each psychological factor to well-being and mental health in the sample. Perceived stress emerged as the most significant contributor to well-being, while resilience played a crucial buffering role against mental-health difficulties. These findings are consistent with Berry’s Acculturative Stress Model, which highlights the importance of managing stress in the context of cultural transitions. Additionally, the presence of well-established expatriate support networks in Switzerland may have mitigated the negative effects of stress, suggesting that similar patterns may not hold in less resource-rich environments.

Research limitations/implications

The study offers important insights into the challenges faced by TCKs during international relocations, underscoring the need for further cross-cultural research. It remains essential to examine whether emotion regulation strategies such as cognitive reappraisal and resilience mechanisms function similarly in different cultural and socioeconomic contexts.

Practical implications

The findings also suggest the potential benefits of tailored psychotherapeutic interventions aimed at enhancing the well-being and adaptive capacity of TCKs.

Originality/value

Overall, this research contributes valuable knowledge to the understanding of the psychological mechanisms that can inform strategies for supporting TCKs as they navigate the complexities of global mobility.
Testing the EU’s Blocking Statute in investment arbitration: failure to protect the investor against secondary sanctions as a violation of legitimate expectations?
Authors: Bakos Alexandros
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This article aims to demonstrate that in certain circumstances investors may legitimately expect protection from the host state against secondary sanctions imposed by a third state. Failure to meet those expectations by the host state may lead to a violation of the fair and equitable treatment (FET) found in various applicable investment treaties.

Design/methodology/approach

This article is based on a doctrinal analysis of various provisions contained in investment treaties, which guarantee the fair and equitable treatment of the foreign investor and its investment. It also involves an analysis of the EU’s Blocking Statute and how it influences the application of international (investment) law in the specific context of the research question.

Findings

Such a form of protection, however, is highly contingent on the existence of a domestic legislative framework that can create specific legitimate expectations. Applying this to the EU’s Blocking Statute (designed to protect EU operators from the extraterritorial application of a third state’s laws), foreign investors in the Union who are affected by secondary sanctions may only expect protection once the specific sanctions regimes are listed in the Annex to the Blocking Statute. Before the EU amends the Annex, no legitimate expectations that protection against secondary sanctions may be formed. Nonetheless, the complexity of the Blocking Statute, especially in terms of the protected interests, could have an impact on the formation of any expectations that would eventually be protected under international investment law.

Originality/value

This article assesses when, and how, the EU’s failure (or the failure of one Member State) to protect the foreign investor against secondary sanctions can amount to a violation of the FET in various applicable investment treaties. The main contribution of the present analysis is that it engages with a broadly under-researched area of international investment law – the extent to which it offers protection against economic sanctions. In addition, it zooms in on an instance of inaction that can amount to a violation of the host state’s obligations.