bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Is Wave Function Collapse Necessary? Explaining Quantum Nondemolition Measurement of a Spin Qubit within Linear Evolution
Authors: Dyte Harry E. , Gillard George , Manna Santanu , Covre da Silva Saimon F. , Rastelli Armando , Chekhovich Evgeny A.
Published: April 2024

The measurement problem dates back to the dawn of quantum mechanics. Here, we measure a quantum dot electron spin qubit through off-resonant coupling with a highly redundant ancilla, consisting of thousands of nuclear spins. Large redundancy allows for single-shot measurement with high fidelity ≈99.85%. Repeated measurements enable heralded initialization of the qubit and backaction-free detection of electron spin quantum jumps, attributed to burstlike fluctuations in a thermally populated phonon bath. Based on these results we argue that the measurement, linking quantum states to classical observables, can be made without any “wave function collapse” in agreement with the Quantum Darwinism concept.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Adaptation, compensation and disengagement: how ICT competences influence nascent entrepreneurs' strategies in a global crisis environment
Authors: Estrada-Cruz Marina , Mira-Solves Ignacio , Martínez-Mateo Jesús
Published: April 2024

Purpose

A global crisis like that caused by the COVID-19 pandemic threatens the survival of any business, but especially of nascent entrepreneurs, due to their vulnerable situation. At this stage of entrepreneurship, information and communication technology capabilities (ICTCs) are critical skills that help entrepreneurs develop their new businesses, fostering economic adaptability to counteract adverse effects. This study advances knowledge of how nascent entrepreneurs react in an environment of global crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes a sample of 331 Spanish nascent entrepreneurs to determine the mediating effect of ICTCs on the relationship between the impact of a global crisis (e.g. COVID-19) and the firm’s strategic response.

Findings

The results suggest that crises influence adaptation and compensation strategies significantly and that ICTCs exert a total mediating effect on this relationship. The results do not, however, establish a clear relationship between the impact of the COVID-19 crisis and disengagement response, but rather a negative relationship, possibly influenced by government attempts to mitigate the pandemic’s economic consequences (economic aid to maintain the workforce, financial support for business model survival).

Originality/value

The COVID-19 crisis revealed ICT as a key technology for continuing business operations. This study analyzes how ICTCs affect nascent entrepreneurs’ strategies in crisis environments. Our analysis is important because these entrepreneurs have invested resources in their new project. We must determine their strategic response to crisis environments: adaptation, compensation or disengagement. The sample itself, collected during the pandemic, provides unique insights into the impact of the crisis on nascent business decisions.
Bond yield spreads and exchange market pressure in emerging countries
Authors: Ozcelebi Oguzhan , Perez-Montiel Jose , Manera Carles
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Might the impact of the financial stress on exchange markets be asymmetric and exposed to regime changes? Departing from the existing literature, highlighting that the domestic and foreign financial stress in terms of money market have substantial effects on exchange market, this paper aims to investigate the impacts of the bond yield spreads of three emerging countries (Mexico, Russia, and South Korea) on their exchange market pressure indices using monthly observations for the period 2010:01–2019:12. Additionally, the paper analyses the impact of bond yield spread of the US on the exchange market pressure indices of the three mentioned emerging countries. The authors hypothesized whether the negative and positive changes in the bond yield spreads have varying effects on exchange market pressure indices.

Design/methodology/approach

To address the research question, we measure the bond yield spread of the selected countries by using the interest rate spread between 10-year and 3-month treasury bills. At the same time, the exchange market pressure index is proxied by the index introduced by Desai et al. (2017). We base the empirical analysis on nonlinear vector autoregression (VAR) models and an asymmetric quantile-based approach.

Findings

The results of the impulse response functions indicate that increases/decreases in the bond yield spreads of Mexico, Russia and South Korea raise/lower their exchange market pressure, and the effects of shocks in the bond yield spreads of the US also lead to depreciation/appreciation pressures in the local currencies of the emerging countries. The quantile connectedness analysis, which allows for the role of regimes, reveals that the weights of the domestic and foreign bond yield spread in explaining variations of exchange market pressure indices are higher when exchange market pressure indices are not in a normal regime, indicating the role of extreme development conditions in the exchange market. The quantile regression model underlines that an increase in the domestic bond yield spread leads to a rise in its exchange market pressure index during all exchange market pressure periods in Mexico, and the relevant effects are valid during periods of high exchange market pressure in Russia. Our results also show that Russia differs from Mexico and South Korea in terms of the factors influencing the demand for domestic currency, and we have demonstrated the role of domestic macroeconomic and financial conditions in surpassing the effects of US financial stress. More specifically, the impacts of the domestic and foreign financial stress vary across regimes and are asymmetric.

Originality/value

This study enriches the literature on factors affecting the exchange market pressure of emerging countries. The results have significant economic implications for policymakers, indicating that the exchange market pressure index may trigger a financial crisis and economic recession.
Does self and role efficacy navigate effectiveness among MSME managers? A process-based perspective
Authors: Priyaadarshini R.G. , Jena Lalatendu Kesari
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to propose and validate a process-based model to enhance managerial effectiveness among micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs). It has been observed that business uncertainties and inadequate financial resources that MSME entrepreneurs and managers face require them to constantly engage in strong self-awareness and self-regulating behavior to enhance the efficacy in their roles and, henceforth, their role performance effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach for data collection was based on the clustering of MSMEs belonging to the clusters machine tool, pump manufacturing, foundry, textile and auto-component clusters in India. The respondents to the study were MSME entrepreneurs and managers who oversee and manage multiple functions like operations, quality, marketing, sales, supply chain management, procurement, personnel and administration and general administration.

Findings

The self-efficacy of entrepreneurial managers of MSMEs is observed to play an integral role in enhancing the efficacy of their roles, thus highlighting the use of a process-based perspective while dealing with constant resource constraints and excessive dynamism in their business contexts. The ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and resilience to manage challenges enhances their role-making process, which is significant in achieving and sustaining goal-oriented behavior among MSME entrepreneurs and managers.

Practical implications

This paper would serve as an effective model for entrepreneurs and managers to enhance their efficacy in the individual and interdependent role context, which would help achieve their individual and organizational goals. The model emphasizes a process-based perspective that thrusts the need to relate to the organizational context, enhancing individual confidence for goal-related behavior and fulfilling their role-related expectations.

Originality/value

This paper presents a model of enhancing managerial effectiveness that discusses self-efficacy as antecedent behavior. Here, personal and environmental factors aid cognition to one’s capability to construct reality, self-regulate, encode information and engage in effective managerial action.
Influence of individuals factors on employees' turnover intention: an analysis on private universities in Egypt
Authors: Aboudahab Nadeen , del Brío Jesús , Abdelsalam Eman
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study presents a comprehensive investigation of turnover intention within the context of higher education, specifically focusing on private universities in Egypt, to develop a robust conceptual framework to explore this phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample comprised both male and female tenured faculty members from private universities, and data were collected through questionnaires, resulting in 396 completed responses. Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS and partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) software.

Findings

The study highlights the significant impact of work-life balance (WLB) and organizational commitment on turnover intention, with job satisfaction as a mediating factor. Additionally, the research reveals that emotional intelligence (EI) does not directly influence turnover intention, but its effects are fully mediated by job satisfaction.

Originality/value

This research not only advances the theoretical understanding of why academics contemplate leaving their positions but also underscores the significance of this topic. Moreover, by exploring turnover intention in the private education sector of the Middle East, the study addresses a notable gap in the existing literature.
Education 4.0 unravelled: deciphering critical success factors for successful implementation
Authors: Sony Michael , Karingada Kochu Therisa Beena
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Education 4.0 (E 4.0) represents a new paradigm in the field of education, which emphasizes a student-centric approach that allows learners to access education anytime, anywhere, tailored to their individual needs through modern-day technologies. The purpose of the study was to unearth the critical success factors (CSFs) essential for the successful implementation of E 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

The CSFs were unearthed using a literature review and further the interrelationships were analysed using multi-criteria decision making (MCDM) approach.

Findings

The study unearthed 15 CSFs for the successful implementation of E 4.0. The most important factor for the successful implementation of E 4.0 was personalized learning which was found to be the casual factor. The other causal CSFs were clear vision and leadership for E 4.0, stakeholder involvement, data analytics in teaching and learning, inter-disciplinary learning and blended learning environments. The effect factors were digital citizenship-based education, teacher training and development for E 4.0, supportive environment, curriculum redesign for E 4.0, open educational resources, digital technologies, formative assessments, infrastructure for E 4.0 and sustainability in education.

Research limitations/implications

This is the first study which unearthed the CSFs and found the interrelationships among them, thus contributing to the theory of technology organization environment.

Originality/value

This study represented a pioneering effort in understanding the CSFs underpinning the successful adoption of E 4.0, paving the way for a more personalized, tech-savvy and effective education system.
An exploratory insight into religion based communication in Islamic financial institutions
Authors: Liaqat Hajira , Ahmed Ishfaq , Yousaf Sheikh Usman
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the phenomenon of Islamic religious communication and how Islamic banks in Pakistan use religion-based communication, along with its expected outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Transcendental phenomenology approach is opted using a multi-stage data collection strategy consisting of observations, documentary reviews and semi-structural interviews to get deep into the phenomenon in a particular context.

Findings

Findings highlight Islamic religious communication as workplace Islamic da’wah that is majorly categorized into compulsive da’wah, objectics da’wah and impulsive da’wah, serving its role in bringing spirituality to work through work-faith integration.

Research limitations/implications

The finding of the study can be used in planning, formulating and implementing Islamic da’wah-based model to induce spirituality at work.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its type exploring Islamic da’wah in an organizational context as a mean to bring spirituality at work.
Fourth industrial (r)evolution? Investigating the use of technology bundles and performance implications
Authors: Demeter Krisztina , Szász Levente , Rácz Béla-Gergely , Györfy Lehel-Zoltán
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how different manufacturing technologies are bundled together and how these bundles influence operations performance and, indirectly, business performance. With the emergence of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) technologies, manufacturing companies can use a wide variety of advanced manufacturing technologies (AMT) to build an efficient and effective production system. Nevertheless, the literature offers little guidance on how these technologies, including novel I4.0 technologies, should be combined in practice and how these combinations might have a different impact on performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a survey study of 165 manufacturing plants from 11 different countries, we use factor analysis to empirically derive three distinct manufacturing technology bundles and structural equation modeling to quantify their relationship with operations and business performance.

Findings

Our findings support an evolutionary rather than a revolutionary perspective. I4.0 technologies build on traditional manufacturing technologies and do not constitute a separate direction that would point towards a fundamental digital transformation of companies within our sample. Performance effects are rather weak: out of the three technology bundles identified, only “automation and robotization” have a positive influence on cost efficiency, while “base technologies” and “data-enabled technologies” do not offer a competitive advantage, neither in terms of cost nor in terms of differentiation. Furthermore, while the business performance impact is positive, it is quite weak, suggesting that financial returns on technology investments might require longer time periods.

Originality/value

Relying on a complementarity approach, our research offers a novel perspective on technology implementation in the I4.0 era by investigating novel and traditional manufacturing technologies together.
Job satisfaction through the perspective of emotional labor
Authors: Gunawan Desynta Rahmawati , Eliyana Anis , Anggraini Rachmawati Dewi , Pratama Andika Setia , Febrianto Zukhruf , Zahar Marziah
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study explores how emotional intelligence, customer orientation, deep acting and surface acting influence job satisfaction among middle managers in their interactions with customers, colleagues and business partners. By examining these factors, we aim to provide insights into their collective impact on job satisfaction and interpersonal dynamics within organizational contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

By involving 95 middle managers at Indonesian Internet service providers as respondents, this research used a questionnaire to collect data. Next, the data were analyzed using the partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique, which evaluated measurement models and structural models. A total of twelve hypotheses were tested in this study.

Findings

This study found that customer orientation does not have a significant effect on deep acting, thereby nullifying its indirect effect on job satisfaction. Conversely, it's demonstrated that both deep acting and surface acting serve as partial mediators in the relationship between emotional intelligence and job satisfaction. Furthermore, surface acting emerges as a partial mediator in the connection between customer orientation and job satisfaction.

Originality/value

By exploring the relationship between customer orientation, emotional intelligence and job satisfaction among employees, this study seeks to reveal novel insights. The study examines the impact of these critical elements, which are necessary for middle managers to effectively manage their emotions and cultivate significant connections, on their overall job satisfaction and interpersonal dynamics in their diverse responsibilities.
Drawing attention to print or meaning: How parents read with their preschool‐aged children on paper and on screens
Authors: Nastasiuk Anika , Courteau Émilie , Thomson Jenny , Deacon S. Hélène
Published: April 2024

Background

Shared reading is an important opportunity for parents and children to connect and learn, which can support later independent reading skills. Much of the research to date has examined shared reading as parents read physical print books with their children. This research has demonstrated that parents tend to engage in more activities that emphasise the meaning of the stories over the code (i.e., print). Here, we examine the focus of shared reading when parents are reading with their children on paper versus on a digital device and whether this differs across the preschool years.

Methods

A total of 253 parents of children aged 0–5 years completed an online self‐report questionnaire. Parents reported on the frequency of engaging in meaning‐ versus code‐related activities during shared book reading on paper and on screen with their youngest child. We conducted a linear regression analysis contrasting code‐ versus meaning‐related activities on paper versus screen modality with age as a continuous variable.

Results

Key to our objectives, parents reported engaging in meaning‐related activities more frequently during shared reading on paper versus on screens and in code‐related activities more frequently during shared reading on screens than on paper. These effects did not differ across age, although overall, parents reported engaging slightly more frequently in shared reading activities in general when their child was older.

Conclusions

The findings show that parents are engaging with their children differently as they read together on paper versus screens. Consistent with prior research, we found that activities emphasising the meaning of stories dominate shared paper book reading experiences in the preschool years. Critically shared reading on screens tips this balance, with parents reporting more code‐related activities. These patterns identify the learning opportunities enabled by the affordances of shared reading on screens.
How does the marketization of urban land transfer reduce carbon emissions? Insights from China
Authors: Yang Yanjun , Yu Yang
Published: April 2024

In the context of China's market‐oriented transformation, the marketization of urban land transfer (MULT) plays an important role. However, the intrinsic link between MULT and carbon emissions remains unclear. This study aims to revise the assessment methodology of MULT using large‐scale land transaction record data and tested its impact on carbon emissions at the city level. The results indicate that the competitive bidding mechanism of MULT suppresses “bottom line” competition between local authorities and has beneficial effects on carbon emissions reduction. Further analysis shows that MULT has indirectly reduced carbon emissions by industrial structure optimization. The heterogeneity test showed that the effectiveness of MULT on carbon emissions varies significantly across cities with different levels of resource endowment and location. The lag effect test shows that MULT has a negative impact on carbon emissions in the current year and second year but is no longer significant in the third year. This research expands the understanding of the intrinsic link between institutional and sustainable development, providing new insights and policy rationale for mitigating the environmental crisis.
Do progressive prosecutors increase crime? A quasi‐experimental analysis of crime rates in the 100 largest counties, 2000–2020
Authors: Petersen Nick , Mitchell Ojmarrh , Yan Shi
Published: April 2024

Research summary

In recent years, there has been a rise in so‐called “progressive prosecutors” focused on criminal justice reforms. Although there has been considerable debate about the relationship between progressive prosecution policies and crime rates, there has been surprisingly little empirical research on the topic. Building on the limited extant research, we examined whether the inauguration of progressive prosecutors in the nation's 100 most populous counties impacted crime rates during a 21‐year period (2000 to 2020). After developing an original database of progressive prosecutors in the 100 largest counties, we used heterogeneous difference‐in‐differences regressions to examine the influence of progressive prosecutors on crime rates. Results show that the inauguration of progressive prosecutors led to statistically higher index property (∼7%) and total crime rates (driven by rising property crimes), and these effects were strongest since 2013—a period with an increasing number of progressive prosecutors. However, violent crime rates generally were not higher after a progressive prosecutor assumed control.

Policy implications

Despite concerns that the election of progressive prosecutors leads to “surging” levels of violence, these findings suggest that progressive‐oriented prosecutorial reforms led to relatively higher rates of property crime but had limited impact on rates of violent crime. In fact, in absolute terms, crime rates fell in jurisdictions with traditional and progressive prosecutors. Yet, relative property crime rates were greater after the inauguration of progressive prosecutors. Given that prior research shows progressive prosecutors reduce mass incarceration and racial inequalities, our findings indicate that higher property crime rates may be the price for these advancements.
NMR metabolomic modeling of age and lifespan: A multicohort analysis
Authors: Lau Chung‐Ho E. , Manou Maria , Markozannes Georgios , Ala‐Korpela Mika , Ben‐Shlomo Yoav , Chaturvedi Nish , Engmann Jorgen , Gentry‐Maharaj Aleksandra , Herzig Karl‐Heinz , Hingorani Aroon , Järvelin Marjo‐Riitta , Kähönen Mika , Kivimäki Mika , Lehtimäki Terho , Marttila Saara , Menon Usha , Munroe Patricia B. , Palaniswamy Saranya , Providencia Rui , Raitakari Olli , Schmidt Amand Floriaan , Sebert Sylvain , Wong Andrew , Vineis Paolo , Tzoulaki Ioanna , Robinson Oliver
Published: April 2024

Metabolomic age models have been proposed for the study of biological aging, however, they have not been widely validated. We aimed to assess the performance of newly developed and existing nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR) metabolomic age models for prediction of chronological age (CA), mortality, and age‐related disease. Ninety‐eight metabolic variables were measured in blood from nine UK and Finnish cohort studies (N ≈31,000 individuals, age range 24–86 years). We used nonlinear and penalized regression to model CA and time to all‐cause mortality. We examined associations of four new and two previously published metabolomic age models, with aging risk factors and phenotypes. Within the UK Biobank (N ≈102,000), we tested prediction of CA, incident disease (cardiovascular disease (CVD), type‐2 diabetes mellitus, cancer, dementia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), and all‐cause mortality. Seven‐fold cross‐validated Pearson's r between metabolomic age models and CA ranged between 0.47 and 0.65 in the training cohort set (mean absolute error: 8–9 years). Metabolomic age models, adjusted for CA, were associated with C‐reactive protein, and inversely associated with glomerular filtration rate. Positively associated risk factors included obesity, diabetes, smoking, and physical inactivity. In UK Biobank, correlations of metabolomic age with CA were modest (r = 0.29–0.33), yet all metabolomic model scores predicted mortality (hazard ratios of 1.01 to 1.06/metabolomic age year) and CVD, after adjustment for CA. While metabolomic age models were only moderately associated with CA in an independent population, they provided additional prediction of morbidity and mortality over CA itself, suggesting their wider applicability.
Stripping versus ligation of vas deferens in microscopic denervation of spermatic cord in men with chronic orchialgia: A multicenter study
Authors: El‐Achkar Adnan , Hammad Muhammed , Barham David , Service Chad A , Patel Darshan , Hsieh Tung Chin , Mills Jesse , Kianian Reza , Eleswarapu Sriram , Ziegelmann Matthew , Smith Ryan , Bryk Darren , Bernie Helen L , Egert Melissa , Raheem Omer , Fendereski Kiarad , Gross Kelli , Pastuszak Alex , Hotaling James , Yafi Faysal
Published: April 2024

Background

Microdenervation of the spermatic cord (MSCD) is an effective treatment modality for men with intractable scrotal content pain. For patients not interested in preserving fertility, some centers advocate ligation of the vas during denervation, while others prefer stripping of the vas deferens to preserve the vasal artery, hence preserving vasculature to the testis and possibly decreasing post‐operative congestion pain.

Objective

To compare outcomes of patients with chronic orchialgia, who underwent MSCD by either stripping or ligating the vas deferens.

Materials and methods

A retrospective chart review of 85 patients who underwent MSCD from 2017–2023 was performed. Patients’ demographics including history of prior surgical procedures were recorded. Response to surgery was evaluated as either complete resolution of pain, partial resolution of pain, or no improvement in pain.

Results

Eighty‐five patients underwent MSCD with a median (interquartile range, IQR) age of 36 (25.5–46.5) years and median duration of pain of 16 (6–31) months. Thirty‐seven patients underwent stripping of vas, while 48 underwent ligation of vas during MSCD. Median follow up was 12 months. Twenty‐one (43.5%) patients had prior inguinal scrotal surgery in the ligation group compared to 5 (13.5%) in the stripping group, p = 0.003. The etiology of pain was similar between the groups. The response to MSCD between the two groups was similar, 67.6% of patients who underwent stripping had complete resolution of pain versus 66.7% of those who had ligation (p = 0.968), with similar rates of post‐operative complications (p‐value = 0.132).

Conclusions

In men with intractable chronic scrotal content pain with no interest in preserving fertility, ligation, or stripping of the vas deferens yields similar outcomes with regard to pain resolution. Both techniques are safe with no reports of any testicular atrophy.
Chymotrypsin activity signals to intestinal epithelium by protease‐activated receptor‐dependent mechanisms
Authors: Guignard Simon , Saifeddine Mahmoud , Mihara Koichiro , Motahhary Majid , Savignac Magali , Guiraud Laura , Sagnat David , Sebbag Mireille , Khou Sokchea , Rolland Corinne , Edir Anissa , Bournet Barbara , Buscail Louis , Buscail Etienne , Alric Laurent , Camare Caroline , Ambli Mouna , Vergnolle Nathalie , Hollenberg Morley D. , Deraison Céline , Bonnart Chrystelle
Published: April 2024

Background and Purpose

Chymotrypsin is a pancreatic protease secreted into the lumen of the small intestine to digest food proteins. We hypothesized that chymotrypsin activity may be found close to epithelial cells and that chymotrypsin signals to them via protease‐activated receptors (PARs). We deciphered molecular pharmacological mechanisms and gene expression regulation for chymotrypsin signalling in intestinal epithelial cells.

Experimental Approach

The presence and activity of chymotrypsin were evaluated by Western blot and enzymatic activity tests in the luminal and mucosal compartments of murine and human gut samples. The ability of chymotrypsin to cleave the extracellular domain of PAR1 or PAR2 was assessed using cell lines expressing N‐terminally tagged receptors. The cleavage site of chymotrypsin on PAR1 and PAR2 was determined by HPLC–MS analysis. The chymotrypsin signalling mechanism was investigated in CMT93 intestinal epithelial cells by calcium mobilization assays and Western blot analyses of (ERK1/2) phosphorylation. The transcriptional consequences of chymotrypsin signalling were analysed on colonic organoids.

Key Results

We found that chymotrypsin was present and active in the vicinity of the colonic epithelium. Molecular pharmacological studies have shown that chymotrypsin cleaves both PAR1 and PAR2 receptors. Chymotrypsin activated calcium and ERK1/2 signalling pathways through PAR2, and this pathway promoted interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) up‐regulation in colonic organoids. In contrast, chymotrypsin disarmed PAR1, preventing further activation by its canonical agonist, thrombin.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results highlight the ability of chymotrypsin to signal to intestinal epithelial cells via PARs, which may have important physiological consequences in gut homeostasis.
Designing turnover taxes in countries with large informal sectors
Authors: Wei Feng , Wen Jean‐François
Published: April 2024

Turnover (sales) is frequently used in developing countries as a presumptive income tax base to economize on the costs of tax administration and taxpayer compliance. We construct a simple model where a size threshold separates firms paying turnover tax from those paying regular income tax and where firms have the option of producing in the untaxed, informal sector. The optimal turnover tax rate trades off two policy concerns: reducing informality and avoiding strategic reductions in sales by firms seeking to remain below the threshold for the regular income tax. We provide analytical results and calibrate the model to compute the optimal policy using realistic parameter values. Introducing an optimally designed turnover tax induces about 12 percentage points of previously informal enterprises to register for the presumptive regime in the calibrated model.
A novel variant in IFT122 associated with a severe phenotype of cranioectodermal dysplasia
Authors: Nagayama Shiho , Takahashi Hironori , Hasegawa Fuyuki , Hori Asuka , Kizami Sho , Furukawa Rieko , Horie Kenji , Ogoyama Manabu , Hata Kenichiro , Fujiwara Hiroyuki
Published: April 2024

A 27‐year‐old multiparous woman conceived her fetus naturally. Early second‐trimester ultrasound showed short extremities with systemic subcutaneous edema. The pregnancy was artificially terminated at 19 weeks of gestation because of the abnormalities based on the parents' wishes. The parents desired whole‐exome sequencing to detect a causative gene using the umbilical cord and the parents' saliva. Compound heterozygous variants (NC_000003.11(NM_052989.3):c.230 T > G/NC_000003.11(NM_052985.4):c.1178A > T) were identified. We described a fetus with a novel compound heterozygous variant in IFT122. The phenotype of this case was severer than of other types of cranioectodermal dysplasia.
Genealogy: A conceptual map
Authors: Ratcliffe Julian
Published: April 2024

The blossoming literature on genealogy in recent years has come as somewhat of a pleasant surprise to the historically inclined among us. It has not, however, come without its difficulties. As I see it, the literature on genealogy is guilty of two conflations, what I call the “debunking/problematizing conflation” and the “problematizing/rationalizing conflation.” Both are the result of the inadequate typological maps currently used to organize the literature. As a result, what makes many genealogies philosophically interesting often remains obscure. In response, I propose a new two‐dimensional typology that avoids these conflations and outfits us with a richer conceptual vocabulary with which to understand and organize the genealogies which populate the literature. By identifying a second dimension of analysis which has thus far gone untheorized, my typology enables us to elucidate the various normative objectives and objects of investigation structuring a literature which is more diverse than previously acknowledged. We can thus get a clearer understanding of the problems those genealogies face, of their critical potential, and of their implications for our conception of critique.
Endoscopic application of magnetic compression anastomosis: a review
Authors: Zhang Guo , Liang Zheng , Zhao Guiping , Zhang Shutian
Published: April 2024

Magnetic compression anastomosis (MCA) is a new method that provides sutureless passage construction for tubular organs. Due to the high recurrence rate of conventional endoscopic treatment and the high morbidity and mortality of surgical procedures, the MCA technique shows promise. The aim of this review is to comprehensively examine the literature related to the use of MCA in different gastrointestinal diseases over the past few years, categorizing them according to the anastomotic site and describing in detail the various methods of magnet delivery and the clinical outcomes of MCA. MCA is an innovative technique, and its use represents an advancement in the field of minimally invasive interventions. Comparison studies have shown that the anastomosis formed by MCA is comparable to or better than surgical sutures in terms of general appearance and histology. Although most of the current research has involved animal studies or studies with small populations, the safety and feasibility of MCA have been preliminarily demonstrated. Large prospective studies involving populations are still needed to guarantee the security of MCA. For technologies that have been initially used in clinical settings, effective measures should also be implemented to identify, even prevent, complications. Furthermore, specific commercial magnets must be created and optimized in this emerging area.
Management of eating disorders during pregnancy: A survey of Australian dietitians in clinical practice
Authors: Parker Tamara , Angus Rebecca
Published: April 2024

Background

Eating disorders (EDs) are estimated to affect 5.2%–7.5% of pregnant women, equating to 15,800–23,000 births in Australia annually. In pregnancy, an ED increases the risk of complications for both mother and child. Heightened motivation and increased utilisation of healthcare services during pregnancy present an opportunity to identify and commence ED treatment. Dietetic management of EDs differs from nutrition guidelines for pregnancy. This study aimed to assess current practice, confidence and training needs of dietitians to manage EDs in pregnancy.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey of Australian dietitians with past year exposure to ED and/or antenatal fields was completed using Microsoft Forms between November 2022 and January 2023.

Results

One hundred and seventeen responses were analysed. Confidence was less for assessment of a woman with an active ED in pregnancy than a pregnant woman with a history of an ED, pregnancy or an ED alone (p < 0.001). Greater than 5 years of experience as a dietitian, but without recent exposure to the patient population, was associated with increased confidence (p < 0.01). Almost half provided descriptions of treatments and interventions used to treat a pregnant woman with an ED, some of which conflict with ED or antenatal guidelines. Dietitians were more likely to weigh a person with an ED in pregnancy. Most respondents indicated further training (93%) and guidelines (98%) would be helpful.

Conclusion

This is the first investigation into the dietetic management of EDs in pregnancy, and it highlights a need for guidelines and training for dietitians.
Insights from Developing and Implementing a Novel School Community Collaborative Model to Promote School Safety*
Authors: Hullenaar Keith L. , Hicks Chelsea D. , Stubblefield Marcus W. , Herndon (Flip) Lester , Seabrooks Susan K. , Vavilala Monica S. , Laing Sharon S.
Published: April 2024

BACKGROUND

School Resource Officer (SRO) programs do not reduce school violence and increase school discipline. We describe the use of a culturally responsive framework to form a school community collaborative among students, parents, staff, administrators, and law enforcement to reform an SRO program, promote school safety, and reduce punitive measures.

METHODS

Members of a participating school district, a local county, and a university collaborated. Adapting an identified culturally responsive model, a racially/ethnically diverse school community co‐developed and implemented a School Community Collaborative (SCC) to address a school safety priority (SRO program reform). The main outcomes were SCC model development and implementation, policy change, and school community feedback.

RESULTS

Sixteen community members participated in the 5‐week SCC with students, staff, law enforcement, and parents. The SCC revised the district's SRO memorandum of understanding (MOU) with law enforcement. Participants reported favorable feedback, and 89% reported the inclusion of diverse voices.

CONCLUSIONS

Co‐development and implementation of an SCC process with schools were feasible. School SCC participated in a community‐engaged evaluation and revision of an MOU.
Split personalities? Behavioral effects of temperature on financial decision‐making
Authors: Gavresi Despina , Litina Anastasia , Makridis Christos A.
Published: April 2024

The fact that environmental factors have a broader effect on financial decision‐making has been lengthily explored, but there is a gap in understanding how personality traits might mediate the effects of temperature on individual decision‐making. Using plausibly exogenous variation of individuals' exposure to changes in national temperature between 2004 and 2018 across NUTS 1 regions in 29 European countries, we estimate the causal effect of a marginal change in temperature on financial investments and its interaction with the trait of optimism/pessimism using Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe (SHARE) data. A 10% increase in temperature is associated with a 0.03 percentage point (pp) rise in the probability that an optimist invests in bonds and a 0.024 pp decline in the probability for investment in stocks. However, among pessimists, we find null effects. The results are comparable on the intensive margin. In sum, our results highlight the potentially heterogeneous ways that environmental factors shape individual decision‐making.
‘Uncertainty as constant presence’: Emerging geographers reflect on their housing experiences in Aotearoa
Authors: Schloffel‐Armstrong Salene , Bates Laura , Kearns Robin A. , Coleman Tara , Baluyot Alliyah , Barber‐Wilson Hannah , Best Marnie , Corattur Thanve Senthil , Davidson Molly , Fisher Kyla , Griffin Alex , Jelitto Petra , Lawrence Molly , Manuel Mark , Read Caitlin , Rigden Cameron , Rodger Lottie , Tesfaye Sahil , Tuhoro Cory , Buttle Eleanor , Soukoutou Ruth
Published: April 2024

As a collective of students and teachers, we reflect on student experiences of housing in Aotearoa. The commentary began as a reflective diary assignment from a third‐year course offered in semester one of 2023 at the University of Auckland. Using 15 of these diaries as our data, we take stock of the multiple intersecting crises of housing that are currently impacting students and other young people, and suggest potential directions for future research.
Does symbolic representation matter? A meta‐analysis of the passive‐symbolic representation link
Authors: Wang Yao
Published: April 2024

The theory of symbolic representation expects that passive representativeness of bureaucrats can heighten agencies' perceived legitimacy and enhance citizen outcomes. Empirical evidence on the consequences of symbolic representation, however, is mixed. By performing a meta‐analysis of 286 effect sizes, this study finds a significantly positive, though weak, association between passive representation and its anticipated symbolic outcomes. A meta‐regression analysis further examined how the salience of symbolic representation is moderated by multiple aspects of passive representativeness, symbolic outcomes, policy and geographical contexts, and research design. Results suggest that the symbolic benefits of passive representation are more observed at the frontline than in managerial settings, and the effects are stronger in experimental research designs than observational ones. This research echoes the increasing attention dedicated to the importance of context to representative bureaucracy research and contributes to a more refined theoretical exploration of symbolic representation.
The four stages of neighborhood trust: Classic grounded theory
Authors: Beese Shawna , Graves Janessa M. , Postma Julie , Oneal Gail
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Neighborhoods are often overlooked as a determinant of health. Among recent research, the focus on “place‐based effects,” due to prolonged residential environmental exposure, has been of particular interest. These studies' purpose is to identify and examine how a healthy neighborhood is intentionally created to describe a transferable process‐driven theory.

Method

A classic grounded theory approach was used in these studies. Data sources include individual in‐depth interviews, historical documents, and a member‐checking focus group, collected over 3‐years.

Results

Analysis generated the Four Stages of Neighborhood Trust Model, which is nested within the context of perceived neighborhood safety. The theory outlines a social process of four stages of neighborhood trust: (a) rules‐based agreements, (b) shared values, (c) cooperation, and (d) neighborhood belonging.

Conclusions

We present the development of a process‐driven theory that may be useful for public health nurses as they engage neighborhoods in health promotion activities. The stage of trust development will aid the nurse in identifying what is needed to move to the next stage in a healthy neighborhood process.
‘We’ in English language textbooks for Japanese high school students
Authors: Gonja Chika , Musaev Talaibek
Published: April 2024

In a globalised educational context, recognising English as an International Language is crucial for fostering cultural diversity in learning materials. This study examines the representation of ‘we’ in 24 government‐approved English textbooks for the course ‘English Communication I’, under Japan's 2018 national curriculum, aiming to understand the cultural and linguistic inclusivity portrayed. An analysis of 247 instances of ‘we’ associated with human characters revealed a pronounced bias towards ‘native’ English speakers, predominantly from the United States, while noticeably excluding ‘non‐native’ speakers, especially from neighbouring Asian countries. These findings underscore an imbalance that could influence Japanese students’ perceptions of global English speakers, potentially impacting their identity formation and intercultural competence. This study advocates for a more inclusive approach in textbook development, emphasising the need for representations that reflect English user's global diversity. Such an approach can contribute to a more comprehensive English language education, aligning national identity with global engagement.
PTH treatment before cyclic joint loading improves cartilage health and attenuates load-induced osteoarthritis development in mice
Authors: Antoinette Adrien Y. , Ziemian Sophia N. , Brown Allison R. , Hudson Erin B. , Chlebek Carolyn , Wright Timothy M. , Goldring Steven R. , Goldring Mary B. , Otero Miguel , van der Meulen Marjolein C.H.
Published: April 2024

Osteoarthritis (OA) treatment is limited by the lack of effective nonsurgical interventions to slow disease progression. Here, we examined the contributions of the subchondral bone properties to OA development. We used parathyroid hormone (PTH) to modulate bone mass before OA initiation and alendronate (ALN) to inhibit bone remodeling during OA progression. We examined the spatiotemporal progression of joint damage by combining histopathological and transcriptomic analyses across joint tissues. The additive effect of PTH pretreatment before OA initiation and ALN treatment during OA progression most effectively attenuated load-induced OA pathology. Individually, PTH directly improved cartilage health and slowed the development of cartilage damage, whereas ALN primarily attenuated subchondral bone changes associated with OA progression. Joint damage reflected early transcriptomic changes. With both treatments, the structural changes were associated with early modulation of immunoregulation and immunoresponse pathways that may contribute to disease mechanisms. Overall, our results demonstrate the potential of subchondral bone-modifying therapies to slow the progression of OA.
Multi-center evaluation of the Research Use Only NeuMoDx monkeypox virus (MPXV) fully automated real-time PCR assay
Authors: Mostafa Heba H. , Wall Gavin , Su Szu-Chi , Hysa Gerta , Gong Lijie , Dadjeu Urbain Charly , Cheung Helen , Pekosz Andrew , De Smet Delphine , Sklenovská Nikola , Laenen Lies , Viñuela Laura , de Salazar Adolfo , Fuentes Ana , Padalko Elizaveta , Garcia Federico
Published: April 2024

The mpox outbreak, caused by monkeypox virus (MPXV), accelerated the development of molecular diagnostics. In this study, we detail the evaluation of the Research Use Only (RUO) NeuMoDx MPXV assay by multiple European and US sites. The assay was designed and developed by Qiagen for the NeuMoDx Molecular Systems. Primers and probes were tested for specificity and inclusivity
in silico
. The analytical sensitivity of the assay was determined by testing dilutions of synthetic and genomic MPXV DNA. A total of 296 clinical samples were tested by three sites; the Johns Hopkins University (US), UZ Gent (Belgium, Europe), and Hospital Universitario San Cecilio (Spain, Europe). The analytical sensitivity of the assay was 50 copies/mL for both clades I and II. The assay showed 100%
in silico
identity for 80 clade I and 99.98%
in silico
identity for 5,162 clade II genomes. Clade II primers and probes showed 100%
in silico
specificity; however, identity of at least one of the two sets of clade I primers and probes with variola, cowpox, camelpox, and vaccinia viruses was noticed. The clinical validation showed sensitivity of 99.21% [95% confidence interval (CI): 95.66–99.98%] and specificity of 96.64% (95% CI: 91.62–99.08%) for lesion swab samples. The NeuMoDx MPXV Test shows acceptable analytical and clinical performance. The assay improves the laboratory’s workflow as it consolidates nucleic acid extraction, PCR, data analysis, and interpretation and can be interfaced. The Test Strip can differentiate clades I and II, which has important laboratory safety implications.

IMPORTANCE

In this manuscript, we provide detailed
in silico
analysis and clinical evaluation of the assay using a large cohort of clinical samples across three academic centers in Europe and the United States. Because the assay differentiates MPXV clades I and II, this manuscript is timely due to the current need to rule out the regulated clade I by diagnostic clinical laboratories. In December 2023, and due to first report of cases of sexually transmitted clade I infections in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, when generic assays that do not differentiate the clades are used, samples are considered regulated. The assay meets the need of full automation and has a marked positive impact on the laboratory workflow.