bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theory for Equivariant Quantum Neural Networks
Authors: Nguyen Quynh T. , Schatzki Louis , Braccia Paolo , Ragone Michael , Coles Patrick J. , Sauvage Frédéric , Larocca Martín , Cerezo M.
Published: May 2024

Quantum neural network architectures that have little to no inductive biases are known to face trainability and generalization issues. Inspired by a similar problem, recent breakthroughs in machine learning address this challenge by creating models encoding the symmetries of the learning task. This is materialized through the usage of equivariant neural networks the action of which commutes with that of the symmetry. In this work, we import these ideas to the quantum realm by presenting a comprehensive theoretical framework to design equivariant quantum neural networks (EQNNs) for essentially any relevant symmetry group. We develop multiple methods to construct equivariant layers for EQNNs and analyze their advantages and drawbacks. Our methods can find unitary or general equivariant quantum channels efficiently even when the symmetry group is exponentially large or continuous. As a special implementation, we show how standard quantum convolutional neural networks (QCNNs) can be generalized to group-equivariant QCNNs where both the convolution and pooling layers are equivariant to the symmetry group. We then numerically demonstrate the effectiveness of a SU(2)-equivariant QCNN over symmetry-agnostic QCNN on a classification task of phases of matter in the bond-alternating Heisenberg model. Our framework can be readily applied to virtually all areas of quantum machine learning. Lastly, we discuss about how symmetry-informed models such as EQNNs provide hopes to alleviate central challenges such as barren plateaus, poor local minima, and sample complexity.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Crystal structures, electron spin resonance, and thermogravimetric analysis of three mixed-valence copper cyanide polymers
Authors: Corfield Peter W. R. , Elsayed Ahmed , DaCunha Tristan , Bender Christopher
Published: May 2024

The crystal structures of three mixed-valence copper cyanide alkanolamine polymers are presented, together with thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and electron spin resonance (ESR) data. In all three structures, a CuII moiety on a crystallographic center of symmetry is coordinated by two alkanolamines and links two CuICN chains via cyanide bridging groups to form diperiodic sheets. The sheets are linked together by cuprophilic CuI–CuI interactions to form a three-dimensional network. In poly[bis(μ-3-aminopropanolato)tetra-μ-cyanido-dicopper(I)dicopper(II)], [Cu4(CN)4(C3H8NO)2]
n
, 1, propanolamine bases have lost their hydroxyl H atoms and coordinate as chelates to two CuII atoms to form a dimeric CuII moiety bridged by the O atoms of the bases with CuII atoms in square-planar coordination. The ESR spectrum is very broad, indicating exchange between the two CuII centers. In poly[bis(2-aminopropanol)tetra-μ-cyanido-dicopper(I)copper(II)], [Cu3(CN)4(C3H9NO)2]
n
, 2, and poly[bis(2-aminoethanol)tetra-μ-cyanido-dicopper(I)copper(II)], [Cu3(CN)4(CH7NO)2]
n
, 3, a single CuII atom links the CuICN chains together via CN bridges. The chelating alkanolamines are not ionized, and the OH groups form rather long bonds in the axial positions of the octahedrally coordinated CuII atoms. The coordination geometries of CuII in 2 and 3 are almost identical, except that the Cu—O distances are longer in 2 than in 3, which may explain their somewhat different ESR spectra. Thermal decomposition in 2 and 3, but not in 1, begins with the loss of HCN(g), and this can be correlated with the presence of OH protons on the ligands in 2 and 3, which are not present in 1.
Testing the permanent income hypothesis using the Spanish Christmas Lottery
Authors: Cabanillas-Jiménez Guillermo
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of local windfall gains from the Spanish Christmas lottery on household consumption behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies differences-in-differences to assess permanent income hypothesis (PIH) validity, examining pre- and postlottery consumption effects. Additionally, it also uses an instrumental variable regression, using the lottery shock as an instrument for total expenditures, to estimate the Engel curves.

Findings

The paper finds a PIH violation; households in winning region notably increase consumption on durable and nondurable goods compared to nonwinning ones. Moreover, durable goods consumption is responsive to lottery winnings, while nondurable goods consumption are unit-elastic to expenditure shocks.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first paper analyzing the effects of winning regions of the Spanish Christmas lottery in all types of consumption goods, testing its consequences in the PIH and estimating its effects in the Engel curves.
Measurement and evaluation methods in corporate communications through the prism of Lasswell’s model
Authors: Oltarzhevskyi Dmytro
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to conceptualize, rethink and systematize methods used for measurement and evaluation (M&E) corporate communication.

Design/methodology/approach

The reflection is based on 462 key English-language books and papers devoted to M&E in the fields of corporate communication and public relations from the 1970th to 2023. Keywords in the titles and abstracts found the necessary materials. A critical analysis of the central concepts, models and methods described in the literature was conducted. As a result, a new model that unifies and structures the M&E toolkit is proposed for discussion.

Findings

Despite the significant contribution to developing a wide range of M&E models, they are still not perfect and universal. In addition, this system of approaches is continuously self-evolving and changing under the influence of digital innovations, so it requires steady rethinking and updating. On the other hand, most previous studies focused on communication management processes, losing focus on communication aspects. This led to the need for an alternative view based on proven theories to fill this gap. The proposed model combines quantitative and qualitative M&E methods for the five main components of corporate communication (communicator, audience, content, channels and result), covering a wide range of tools, from statistical and sociological research to big data analysis and neuro research.

Originality/value

This work contributes to developing the M&E theory of corporate communication, systematizing existing methods and opening new research perspectives. From a practical point of view, companies can use the presented approach for a more accurate and objective internal evaluation of the main components of corporate communication.
Analysis of e-government and digital society indicators over the years: a comparative study of the EU member states
Authors: Lnenicka Martin , Luterek Mariusz , Majo Lorraine Tinashe
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Benchmarking e-government and digital society developments using relevant indicators provides crucial insights into what aspects to consider while building a resilient digital society in which digital public services are delivered effectively and sustainably. The purpose of this paper is to analyse selected indices and indicators over the years and provide findings and recommendations on what indicators contribute most to the development.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed research approach was used to conduct the research and collect, analyse and interpret data. A qualitative analysis involving the search, decomposition and comparison approaches to identify e-government and digital society reports, indices, rankings and indicators was followed by a quantitative analysis comprising of regression and cluster analyses.

Findings

The findings revealed that changes in the mix of indicators used by e-government and digital society indices can be attributed to advances in ICT and channels through which people communicate and receive information. The authors found that digital and telecommunication infrastructures and the quality of their parameters such as broadband have the biggest influence on progress of the e-government and digital societies developments and contribute most to clustering of the EU member states into groups.

Originality/value

The paper provides insights into how the structures of related indices changed over the years and how different indicators contribute to benchmarking of e-government and digital society developments by means of their weights. It provides governments with recommendations on which indicators to focus most.
Believing in the power of belief: a study on the formation mechanism of innovative behavior from the perspectives of intrinsic and extrinsic spiritual inspiration
Authors: Liu Yuanyuan , Zhang Fan , Li Bin , Liu Pingqing , Liu Shuzhen , Sun Qiong
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study reveals the trigger of innovative behavior from the perspective of intrinsic and extrinsic spiritual inspiration and provides a new research idea for the formation mechanism of innovative behavior. The purpose of this study is to provide certain guidance and implications for enterprises to cultivate and enhance employees’ innovative behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

We conducted three studies, collected multi-source data (N = 1,175) from different countries longitudinally, as well as used hierarchical regression analysis and fuzzy-set quantitative comparative analysis to verify the theoretical model.

Findings

According to the findings, both spiritual leadership and career calling have a positive impact on employees’ innovative behavior through the mediating effect of autonomous motivation and the moderating effect of person-vocation fit.

Originality/value

Innovative behavior is the positive professional pursuit of employees, which is difficult to form without the motivation of spiritual factors. Spirituality is a complex concept that contains intrinsic and extrinsic spiritual factors, both of which could stimulate employees’ innovative behavior. Although many discussions have been held on this topic in recent years, little attention has been paid simultaneously to the motivating effects of the two perspectives. Drawn from self-determination theory, this study explores the mechanisms of two spiritual motivation paths (i.e. the intrinsic and extrinsic spiritual motivation paths) in the improvement of employees’ innovative behavior.
Examining the impact of pharmacist professionalism and celebrity endorsers on dietary supplement purchase intention: the moderating role of product knowledge
Authors: Chou Shihyu , Chen Chi-Wen , Shen Zi-Ling
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how consumers’ purchase intentions concerning dietary supplements are affected by two pivotal factors: pharmacist professionalism and celebrity endorser attractiveness. In addition, this study investigates the moderating role of consumers’ awareness of product knowledge about dietary supplements in the relationship between brand trust and purchase intention.

Design/methodology/approach

The research data was collected through online questionnaires from a convenience sample of 340 individuals residing in Taiwan. The research model, consisting of four hypotheses, was formulated based on a literature review. The partial least squares structural equation modeling technique was used for data analysis.

Findings

The findings indicate positive effects of both pharmacist professionalism and celebrity endorser attractiveness on dietary supplement brand trust. The results also suggest a significant impact of brand trust on purchase intention. Finally, product knowledge significantly moderates the relationship between brand trust and purchase intention.

Practical implications

The findings from this study provide valuable insights for marketers, pharmacists and practitioners about the drivers of consumers’ dietary supplement purchase behavior. It will enable marketers to develop better strategies for the dietary supplement market segment.

Originality/value

This paper has made a significant contribution to the understanding of consumer buying intentions toward dietary supplements, addressing a gap in the literature. First, unlike previous research, this study considers both pharmacist professionalism and celebrity endorser attractiveness in the research model, effectively bridging this gap. Furthermore, this study identifies the pivotal role of brand trust as a critical factor in enhancing consumers’ purchase intentions toward dietary supplements, offering valuable insights for dietary supplement companies regarding consumer purchase decision-making.
Formation of structural holes in R&D context: the effect of inventors’ knowledge abilities and patenting output
Authors: Wang Yalan , Wang Chengjun , Wang Wei , Sun Xiaoming
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of inventors’ abilities to acquire external knowledge, provide broad and professional knowledge and patenting output (i.e. different types of inventors) on the formation of structural holes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected 59,798 patents applied for and granted in the USA by 33 of the largest firms worldwide in the pharmaceutical industry between 1975 and 2014. A random-effects tobit model was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The inventors’ ability to acquire external knowledge contributes to the formation of structural holes. While inventors’ ability to provide broad knowledge positively affects the formation of structural holes, their ability to provide professional knowledge works otherwise. In addition, key inventors and industrious inventors are more likely to form structural holes than talents.

Originality/value

The results identify individual factors that affect the formation of structural holes and improve the understanding of structural hole theory. This study is unique in that most scholars have studied the consequences of structural hole formation rather than their antecedents. Studies on the origin of structural holes neglect the effect of inventors’ knowledge abilities and patenting output. By addressing this gap, this study contributes to a more comprehensive theoretical understanding of structural holes. The results can guide managers in managing structural holes in accordance with inventors’ knowledge abilities and patenting outputs, which optimize the allocation of network resources.
Exploring the role of self-determination theory and theory of planned behaviour in understanding the link between spiritual motivation and university-industry collaboration
Authors: Selvamani Lourden , Dhilipan C. , Divyalakshmi G. , Lakshmi Jaya , Krishna V.B.
Published: May 2024

Purpose

University-industry collaboration studies have placed greater emphasis on intrinsic motivators that drive academic researchers to pursue collaboration. This paper explores the relationship between spiritual motivation and collaboration intentions mediated the antecedents of university-level collaboration through theories of self-determination and planned behaviour. This study was conducted to validate the proposed relationship between spirituality and academic researchers in the field of engineering affiliated with higher educational institutions in India.

Design/methodology/approach

This study surveyed 242 participants and utilised structural equation modelling. Research has found that the beneficial relationship between spiritual motivation and collaboration intentions is mediated by attitudes and perceived behavioural control. This study represents a quantitative investigation within the realm of university-industry collaboration, which aims to document the ways in which spiritual motivation can augment collaboration with industry. The study employs self-determination theory and the theory of planned behaviour to elucidate the underlying mechanism to support entrepreneurial debate.

Findings

This study identified attitude and perceived behavioural control as mediators in the relationship between spiritual motivation and collaboration intentions.

Originality/value

The results of this study provide additional support for existing theories and present a diverse perspective on the intrinsic motivation of academic researchers to adopt UIC.
A social exchange theory perspective on efficacy, co-creation and successful new service development
Authors: Hyder Shabir , Malik Muhammad Imran , Hussain Saddam , Saqib Adeel
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to examine the relationships among hotel employees’ creative self-efficacy, co-creation and new service development moderated by collective efficacy in the context of social exchange theory (SET).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by using questionnaire from the frontline employees working in hotels in Pakistan. A total of 220 employees participated in the survey. Structural equation modeling has been used.

Findings

Results show that employees’ creative self-efficacy enhances co-creation and helps in new services development. Moreover, collective efficacy moderates the relationship between individual employees’ creative self-efficacy and co-creation.

Practical implications

Hotel managers should focus on building employees' self-efficacy beliefs to enhance their motivation and performance in new service development. Moreover, they should establish platforms for co-creation with customers, involving them in idea generation, feedback and testing, to ensure new services meet customer needs and increase their adoption.

Originality/value

Earlier literature has examined the co-creation and new service development from various perspectives, largely ignoring the social exchange theory. This is the pioneering study that examines these relationships through the lens of social exchange theory. Moreover, most of the literature has analyzed the co-creation separately, i.e. either employees’ co-creation or customers’ co-creation. To understand the phenomenon of co-creation in depth it is believed that co-creation should be analyzed from both these aspects. Therefore, this study examined this phenomenon by including employees’ as well as customers’ co-creation for better understanding. Moreover, the group influence is examined in explaining the new service development through collective efficacy. Therefore, this study is unique in explaining the co-creation and new service development from various angles.
Synthesis and characterization of chicken feather derived rachis fiber-bamboo particulate hybrid reinforced epoxy composites for sustainable structural applications
Authors: Oladele Isiaka Oluwole , Odemilin Omoye Oseyomon , Adelani Samson Oluwagbenga , Taiwo Anuoluwapo Samuel Samuel , Olanrewaju Olajesu Favor
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to reduce waste management and generate wealth by investigating the novelty of combining chicken feather fiber and bamboo particles to produce hybrid biocomposites. This is part of responsible production and sustainability techniques for sustainable development goals. This study aims to broaden animal and plant fiber utilization in the sustainable production of epoxy resins for engineering applications.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used two reinforcing materials [chicken feather fiber (CFF) and bamboo particles (BP)] to reinforce epoxy resin. The BPs were kept constant at 6 Wt.%, while the CFF was varied within 3–15 Wt.% in the composites to make CFF-BP polymer-reinforced composite (CFF-BP PRC). The mechanical experiment showed a 21% reduction in densities, making the CFF-BP PRC an excellent choice for lightweight applications.

Findings

It was discovered that fabricated composites with 10 mm CFF length had improved properties compared with the 15 mm CFF length and pristine samples, which confirmed that short fibers are better at enhancing randomly dispersed fibers in the epoxy matrix. However, the ballistic properties of both samples matched. There is a 40% increase in tensile strength and a 54% increase in flexural strength of the CFF-BP PRC compared to the pristine sample.

Originality/value

According to the literature review, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is a novel study of chicken fiber and bamboo particles in reinforcing epoxy composite.
Linking police and citizen data: a multilevel analysis on the effects of organizational effectiveness and fairness on procedural justice
Authors: Li Luye , Sun Ivan , Wu Yuning
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Police procedural justice is essential in shaping police legitimacy and public willingness to cooperate, yet factors that affect police fair treatment of citizens are not fully understood. Using the data of the National Police Research Platform (NPRP), Phase II, this study examines the effects of three key organizational factors (i.e. effective leadership, supervisory justice and department process fairness) on officers’ procedural justice in police stops.

Design/methodology/approach

Innovatively, this study links police data with citizens’ data and conducts multilevel analyses on the effects of a host of citizen, officer, incident, and, importantly, agency characteristics on officer behaviors during over 5,000 police stops nested within 48 police agencies.

Findings

The results showed that the fairness of the departmental process had a positive effect on officer procedural justice, while the fairness of the supervisor was inversely associated with procedural justice on the street.

Originality/value

The linked data demonstrated that organizational fairness affected street procedure justice.
Performance of health care service area definitions for capturing variation in inpatient care and social determinants of health
Authors: Crook Hannah , Horta Manuel , Michelson Kenneth A. , Graves John A.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To quantify the degree to which health care service area (HCSA) definitions captured hospitalizations and heterogeneity in social determinants of health (SDOH).

Data Sources and Study Setting

Geospatial data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, the Census Bureau, and the Dartmouth Institute. Drive‐time isochrones from MapBox. Area Deprivation Index (ADI) data. 2017 inpatient discharge data from Arizona, Florida, Iowa, Maryland, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, and Wisconsin, State Emergency Department Databases and State Inpatient Databases, Healthcare Cost and Utilization Project, Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality; and Fee‐For‐Service Medicare data in 48 states.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional, descriptive analysis.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

The capture rate was the percentage of inpatient discharges occurring in the same HCSA as the hospital. We compared capture rates for each HCSA definition for different populations and by hospital type. We measured SDOH heterogeneity using the coefficient of variation of the ADI among ZIP codes within each HCSA.

Principal Findings

HCSA definitions captured a wide range of inpatient discharges, ranging from 20% to 50% for Public Use Microdata Areas (PUMAs) to 93%–97% for Metropolitan Statistical Areas (MSAs). Three‐quarters of inpatient discharges were from facilities within the same county as the patient's residential ZIP code, while nearly two‐thirds were within the same Hospital Service Area. From the hospital perspective, 74.7% of inpatient discharges originated from within a 30‐min drive and 90.1% within a 60‐min drive. Capture rates were the lowest for teaching hospitals. PUMAs and drive‐time‐based HCSAs encompassed more homogenous populations while MSAs, Commuting Zones, and Hospital Referral Regions captured the most variation.

Conclusions

The proportion of hospital discharges captured by each HCSA varied, with MSAs capturing the highest proportion of discharges and PUMAs capturing the lowest. Additionally, researchers face a trade‐off between capture rate and population homogeneity when deciding which HCSA to use.
Houston, you have a problem: How large cities accommodate more housing
Authors: Orlando Anthony W. , Redfearn Christian L.
Published: May 2024

We document how a select set of large and growing metropolitan areas have accommodated growth in their housing supply over 40 years. In particular, we examine how housing provision has evolved for the largest four metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in California and Texas. Despite differences in their topographies and regulatory environments, we find several common dynamics. As these MSAs grow, we see that fewer new net units are built at the periphery and a smaller share of the new units are built as single‐family detached houses. As a greater share of new net units are built in infill locations, more units are built using higher‐density—and more costly—multifamily housing construction techniques. Interestingly, we see these housing supply patterns in both “pro‐growth” MSAs and “highly regulated” MSAs. Among all of our sample MSAs, we also find a declining share of Census tracts that participate in accommodating growth. Our results are consistent with the existence of a convex housing supply curve. We believe that this secular trend will pose genuine challenges to many urban housing policies aimed at improving affordability.
Radiation therapy for ventricular arrhythmias
Authors: Liulu Xingzhou , Balaji Poornima , Barber Jeffrey , De Silva Kasun , Murray Tiarne , Hickey Andrew , Campbell Timothy , Harris Jill , Gee Harriet , Ahern Verity , Kumar Saurabh , Hau Eric , Qian Pierre C
Published: May 2024

Ventricular arrhythmias (VA) can be life‐threatening arrhythmias that result in significant morbidity and mortality. Catheter ablation (CA) is an invasive treatment modality that can be effective in the treatment of VA where medications fail. Recurrence occurs commonly following CA due to an inability to deliver lesions of adequate depth to cauterise the electrical circuits that drive VA or reach areas of scar responsible for VA. Stereotactic body radiotherapy is a non‐invasive treatment modality that allows volumetric delivery of energy to treat circuits that cannot be reached by CA. It overcomes the weaknesses of CA and has been successfully utilised in small clinical trials to treat refractory VA. This article summarises the current evidence for this novel treatment modality and the steps that will be required to bring it to the forefront of VA treatment.
Chewing asymmetry in dogs: Exploring the importance of the fossa masseterica and first molar teeth morphology
Authors: Gündemir Ozan , Michaud Margot , Altundağ Yusuf , Karabağlı Murat , Onar Vedat , Crampton Denise
Published: May 2024

Dogs are animals with strong bite force. This strong bite mechanism has led to significant changes in the skeletal system such as fossa masseterica. It can be thought that one side is used more than the other side in chewing and is related to the preference of using the same side's hand, eye and foot. In the study, directional asymmetry and fluctuating asymmetry, which occurs as a result of chewing asymmetry, were examined on the first molar teeth and the fossa masseterica in 85 dog mandibles including a wide diversity of morphotypes. The association of high PC1 values for directional asymmetry with a pronounced cranial index, as evident in breeds like Pekingese, Pomeranian and Bulldog, indicates a potential evolutionary or selective breeding trend favouring brachycephaly. On the contrary, guardian breeds like the German shepherd and Bernese mountain dog, which typically require strong jaws for their roles, showcased reduced PC1 values, which might be related to their functional morphology. Similarly, the PCA results for the first molar teeth shape variations also highlighted the influence of cranial shape, with boxer dogs displaying notably higher PC1 values. The fluctuating asymmetrical distributions provided valuable insights into individualistic variations. Interestingly, no specific breed distribution trend was observed for these asymmetries, indicating a more individual‐based variation rather than breed‐based. It is essential to note that while these results provide valuable insights, further studies are required to understand the underlying causes better. Factors like genetic variations, developmental processes, dietary habits and external environmental factors could play pivotal roles in these observed morphological differences.
Sport, Identity, and Self‐Determination: Aboriginal Rugby League in Brisbane after the Second World War
Authors: Sherwood Catherine , Aird Michael , Phillips Murray G. , Osmond Gary
Published: May 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between self‐determination and sport through the exploits of the Brisbane All Blacks, an Aboriginal rugby league football club established in Brisbane after the Second World War. When the club was formed, the government policy of “Protection,” which legalised the forced removal of Aboriginal peoples to government settlements, was giving way in Queensland to the policy of assimilation. Aboriginal people in Brisbane, including members of the Brisbane All Blacks, were expected to renounce their Aboriginality under the assimilation policy and culturally absorb into white society. Oral history and archival research show, however, that the Brisbane All Blacks actively pushed back against these expectations. The footballers strategically navigated their settler colonial environment in ways that allowed them to exploit the assimilation policy for their own needs and purposes. The All Blacks' football activities and associated Boathouse dances facilitated the emergence of a distinctly Aboriginal community in Southeast Queensland. This community demonstrated a sense of pride and empowerment, as well as forging strong social networks, which enabled Aboriginal initiatives in the following decades. The All Blacks are a meaningful example of self‐determination by Aboriginal peoples before formal self‐determination emerged federally on the political landscape or internationally at the United Nations.
Disability Policy and the Whitlam Government
Authors: St Guillaume Louise
Published: May 2024

The Whitlam Government has an enduring legacy. Yet scholarship on the Whitlam Government rarely exclusively or extensively focusses on its disability policies. This article applies disability studies to analyse key policies of the Whitlam Government, including increases to the Invalid Pension, Sheltered Employment Allowance and Sickness Benefits, the Australian Assistance Plan, the Handicapped Persons Assistance Act 1974, and the National Compensation Bill 1974 to understand how the Whitlam Government understood people with disability and the ongoing legacy of the policies. It hypothesises that, although from a contemporary viewpoint the policies and how they understand people with disability could be problematised, it postulates that, in the 1970s, they reflect a significant shift in how people with disability were understood and governed. Further, it conjects that the policies can inform current disability policy.
Early predictors of severe left main and/or three‐vessel disease in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction: A dual‐center retrospective study
Authors: Huang Bihan , Han Xueying , Huang Yulian , Chen Dongdong , Xie Peiyi , Chen Shaoyuan
Published: May 2024

Background

Early detection of patients concomitant with left main and/or three‐vessel disease (LM/3VD) and high SYNTAX score (SS) is crucial for determining the most effective revascularization options regarding the use of antiplatelet medications and prognosis risk stratification. However, there is a lack of study for predictors of LM/3VD with SS in patients with non‐ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI). We aimed to identify potential factors that could predict LM/3VD with high SS (SS > 22) in patients with NSTEMI.

Methods

This dual‐center retrospective study included a total of 481 patients diagnosed with NSTEMI who performed coronary angiography procedures. Clinical factors on admission were collected. The patients were divided into non‐LM/3VD, Nonsevere LM/3VD (SS ≤ 22), and Severe LM/3VD (SS > 22) groups. To identify independent predictors, Univariate and logistic regression analyses were conducted on the clinical parameters.

Results

A total of 481 patients were included, with an average age of 60.9 years and 75.9% being male. Among these patients, 108 individuals had severe LM/3VD. Based on the findings of a multivariate logistic regression analysis, the extent of ST‐segment elevation observed in lead aVR (OR: 7.431, 95% CI: 3.862–14.301, p < .001) and age (OR: 1.050, 95% CI: 1.029–1.071, p < .001) were identified as independent predictors of severe LM/3VD.

Conclusion

This study indicated that the age of patients and the extent of ST‐segment elevation observed in lead aVR on initial electrocardiogram were the independent predictive factors of LM/3VD with high SS in patients with NSTEMI.
Maternal opioid use during pregnancy and the risk of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome in the offspring
Authors: Kristensen Anna Warncke , Vestermark Vibeke , Kjærbye‐Thygesen Anette , Eckhardt Maria‐Christina , Kesmodel Ulrik Schiøler
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome (NOWS) is caused by sudden cessation from in utero exposure to opioids. The indications for opioid use during pregnancy are diverse including medication for opioid use disorder and analgesia. The opioid dose typically depends on the indication, with higher doses used for medication for opioid use disorder and lower doses used for analgesia. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between maternal opioid dose during pregnancy and the risk of NOWS.

Material and Methods

We conducted a historical multicenter cohort study of neonates prenatally exposed to opioids in Eastern Denmark during a six‐year period from 2013 to 2018. The data was extracted from reviewing the individual's medical record(s), which were identified through a search of the Danish National Patient Register. Four groups (quartiles) according to maternal opioid dose during the last four weeks prior to delivery were compared. Unadjusted and adjusted logistic regression analyses were conducted to examine the risk of NOWS while controlling for relevant covariates.

Results

A total of 130 in utero opioid exposed neonates were included. The majority of the pregnant patients (88%) were treated with opioids for analgesic purposes. Overall, 52% of neonates developed NOWS. The cumulative incidence of NOWS was 21%, 28%, 67% and 91% at maternal average daily dose of morphine milligram equivalent during the last four weeks prior to delivery of 0.7–14 (group I), 14.3–38.6 (group II), 40–90 (group III) and 90.9–1440 (group IV), respectively. Compared to group I the adjusted odds (aOR) of NOWS increased significantly in group III (aOR 10.6 [2.9–39.1]) and group IV (aOR 37.8 [7.6–188.2]) but not in group II (aOR 1.5 [0.4–5.2]). No cases of NOWS were reported at maternal dose less than an average daily dose of five morphine milligram equivalent during the last four weeks prior to delivery. No significant changes in the incidence of NOWS were observed between 2013 and 2018.

Conclusions

The odds of neonatal opioid withdrawal syndrome increased significantly as the maternal average daily dose of morphine milligram equivalent during the last four weeks prior to delivery surpassed 40.
Editorial: Can dietary gluten restriction improve hepatic steatosis? Authors' reply
Authors: Armandi Angelo , Schuppan Detlef , Schattenberg Jörn M.
Published: May 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Armandi et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17941 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17969.
Expectations and outcomes of varying treatment strategies for CML presenting during pregnancy
Authors: Robertson H. F. , Milojkovic D. , Butt N. , Byrne J. , Claudiani S. , Copland M. , Gallipoli P. , Innes A. J. , Knight K. , Mahdi A. J. , Parker J. , Virchis A. , Apperley J. F.
Published: May 2024

Diagnosing chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML) during pregnancy is rare. Tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) have traditionally been contraindicated owing to their teratogenicity. Management decisions should consider the risks to mother and foetus of uncontrolled disease and teratogenic medications. Further cases are required to build upon the paucity of current literature. We report 22 cases of CML diagnosed during pregnancy from 2002 to date. Twenty‐one pregnancies resulted in healthy babies and one patient miscarried. Some patients remained untreated throughout pregnancy but the majority received one or both of interferon‐α and leucapheresis. One patient was started on imatinib at Week 26, and one on hydroxycarbamide in the third trimester. We report haematological parameters during pregnancy to provide clinicians with realistic expectations of management. There were no fetal abnormalities related to treatment during pregnancy. Seventeen patients achieved at least major molecular response on first‐line TKI. A diagnosis of CML during pregnancy can be managed without significant consequences for mother or child. Leucapheresis and interferon‐α are generally safe throughout pregnancy. Despite having been avoided previously, there is growing evidence that certain TKIs may be used in particular circumstances during the later stages of pregnancy. Future work should aim to further elucidate this safety profile.
Autoimmune myelofibrosis: A Mayo Clinic series of 22 patients
Authors: Gangat Naseema , Reichard Kaaren , Orazi Attilio , Tefferi Ayalew
Published: May 2024

We describe the clinical phenotype, management strategies and outcomes of 22 patients with autoimmune myelofibrosis (AIMF); median age: 45 years; 77% females; 83% with autoimmune disease, pancytopenia in 32% and transfusion‐requiring anaemia in 59%. All informative cases were negative for JAK2 (n = 18) and CALR/MPL mutations (n = 12). Fourteen of nineteen (74%) evaluable patients achieved complete response (CR) based on the resolution of cytopenias. First‐line treatments included steroids +/− immunosuppressive agents, cyclosporin and mycophenolate with CR in 7 of 13 (54%), 1 of 2 (50%) and 1 of 2 (50%) respectively. Rituximab salvage therapy yielded CR in 4 of 5 (80%) cases. The current study provides information on steroid‐sparing treatments for AIMF.
Global drivers of the conservation–invasion paradox
Authors: Hong Yanhua , Yuan Zhiyong , Liu Xuan
Published: May 2024

The conservation–invasion paradox (CIP) refers to a long‐term phenomenon wherein species threatened in their native range can sustain viable populations when introduced to other regions. Understanding the drivers of CIP is helpful for conserving threatened species and managing invasive species, which is unfortunately still lacking. We compiled a global data set of 1071 introduction events, including 960 CIP events (successful establishment of threatened species outside its native range) and 111 non‐CIP events (unsuccessful establishment of threatened species outside its native range after introduction), involving 174 terrestrial vertebrates. We then tested the relative importance of various predictors at the location, event, and species levels with generalized linear mixed models and model averaging. Successful CIP events occurred across taxonomic groups and biogeographic realms, especially for the mammal group in the Palearctic and Australia. Locations of successful CIP events had fewer native threat factors, especially less climate warming in invaded regions. The probability of a successful CIP event was highest when species introduction efforts were great and there were more local congeners and fewer natural enemies. These results can inform threatened species ex situ conservation and non‐native invasive species mitigation.
Fluoroquinolones and the risk of severe hypoglycaemia among sulphonylurea users: Population‐based cohort study
Authors: Dimakos Jenny , Cui Ying , Platt Robert W. , Renoux Christel , Filion Kristian B. , Douros Antonios
Published: May 2024

Aim

Fluoroquinolone‐related hypoglycaemia is rare but may become clinically relevant in individuals at high baseline hypoglycaemic risk, such as patients with diabetes using sulphonylureas. Our population‐based cohort study assessed whether fluoroquinolones are associated with an increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia compared with amoxicillin among patients treated with sulphonylureas.

Materials and Methods

Using the UK's Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum linked to hospitalization and vital statistics data, we assembled a base cohort of patients who initiated second‐generation sulphonylureas (1998‐2020). The study cohort included patients initiating either fluoroquinolones or amoxicillin while on sulphonylureas. Using an intent‐to‐treat exposure definition, we assessed the 30‐day risk of severe hypoglycaemia (hospitalization with or death because of hypoglycaemia) associated with fluoroquinolones compared with amoxicillin. Cox models estimated hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of severe hypoglycaemia after 1:5 matching on previous sulphonylurea use and propensity scores. Secondary analyses were stratified by demographics and glycated haemoglobin.

Results

Overall, 143 417 patients initiated fluoroquinolones (n = 13 123) or amoxicillin (n = 130 294) while on sulphonylureas. Compared with amoxicillin, fluoroquinolones were not associated with the risk of severe hypoglycaemia (HR, 1.17; 95% CI, 0.91‐1.50). Fluoroquinolones were associated with an increased risk in patients <65 years (HR, 2.90; 95% CI, 1.41‐5.97) but not in those ≥65 years (HR, 1.03; 95% CI, 0.79‐1.35) in stratified analyses. There was no evidence of effect modification by sex or glycated haemoglobin.

Conclusions

In patients using second‐generation sulphonylureas, fluoroquinolones were not associated with an increased risk of severe hypoglycaemia compared with amoxicillin. An increased risk among younger adults is possible.
Localization of the counterinsurgency in Sinai: A case study on integrating local population into counterinsurgency combat operations in Sinai
Authors: Saad Mohamed
Published: May 2024

Integrating local militias in the counterinsurgency (COIN) operations in Sinai has achieved tangible successes. The presence of local fighters contributed to the penetration of the Islamic State—Sinai Province network. The integration of locals into the ongoing COIN process has imposed a degree of local participation in local governance and decision‐making. Nevertheless, this article argues that there are two approaches to local integration into the COIN operation; the first is institutional integration, in which the state integrates local fighters at an institutional level in the ranks of the security apparatus. The second is the collaborating militia approach. In this pattern, the state resorts to warlords and tribal chiefs to mobilize irregular militias, coordinating with the regular forces in the COIN process without formally merging them into security institutions’ ranks. The Egyptian model in the Sinai is one of the latter type. The collaborating militia integration approach into COIN operations contributes to wooing elites to create narrow patronage networks of cronies, preventing systematized community participation in the decision‐making process, which leads to keeping the factors of rebellion alive below the surface even if the rebels are defeated militarily.
Perspectives on the diagnosis and management of functional cognitive disorder: An international Delphi study
Authors: Cabreira Verónica , Alty Jane , Antic Sonja , Araújo Rui , Aybek Selma , Ball Harriet A. , Baslet Gaston , Bhome Rohan , Coebergh Jan , Dubois Bruno , Edwards Mark , Filipović Saša R. , Frederiksen Kristian Steen , Harbo Thomas , Hayhow Bradleigh , Howard Robert , Huntley Jonathan , Isaacs Jeremy , LaFrance William Curt , Larner Andrew J. , Di Lorenzo Francesco , Main James , Mallam Elizabeth , Marra Camillo , Massano João , McGrath Emer R. , McWhirter Laura , Moreira Isabel Portela , Nobili Flavio , Pennington Catherine , Tábuas‐Pereira Miguel , Perez David L. , Popkirov Stoyan , Rayment Dane , Rossor Martin , Russo Mirella , Santana Isabel , Schott Jonathan , Scott Emmi P. , Taipa Ricardo , Tinazzi Michele , Tomic Svetlana , Toniolo Sofia , Tørring Caroline Winther , Wilkinson Tim , Frostholm Lisbeth , Stone Jon , Carson Alan
Published: May 2024

Background

Current proposed criteria for functional cognitive disorder (FCD) have not been externally validated. We sought to analyse the current perspectives of cognitive specialists in the diagnosis and management of FCD in comparison with neurodegenerative conditions.

Methods

International experts in cognitive disorders were invited to assess seven illustrative clinical vignettes containing history and bedside characteristics alone. Participants assigned a probable diagnosis and selected the appropriate investigation and treatment. Qualitative, quantitative and inter‐rater agreement analyses were undertaken.

Results

Eighteen diagnostic terminologies were assigned by 45 cognitive experts from 12 countries with a median of 13 years of experience, across the seven scenarios. Accurate discrimination between FCD and neurodegeneration was observed, independently of background and years of experience: 100% of the neurodegenerative vignettes were correctly classified and 75%–88% of the FCD diagnoses were attributed to non‐neurodegenerative causes. There was <50% agreement in the terminology used for FCD, in comparison with 87%–92% agreement for neurodegenerative syndromes. Blood tests and neuropsychological evaluation were the leading diagnostic modalities for FCD. Diagnostic communication, psychotherapy and psychiatry referral were the main suggested management strategies in FCD.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates the feasibility of distinguishing between FCD and neurodegeneration based on relevant patient characteristics and history details. These characteristics need further validation and operationalisation. Heterogeneous labelling and framing pose clinical and research challenges reflecting a lack of agreement in the field. Careful consideration of FCD diagnosis is advised, particularly in the presence of comorbidities. This study informs future research on diagnostic tools and evidence‐based interventions.
What accounts for the difference in the emergence times of Drosophila melanogaster between the first and second eclosion days?
Authors: Watari Yasuhiko , Goto Shin G. , Miyazaki Yosuke , Kuroki Izuru , Tanaka Kazuhiro
Published: May 2024

One of the characteristics of the adult eclosion rhythm in Drosophila melanogaster is that adult emergence time differs greatly between the first and second eclosion days. The emergence time is in the middle of the light period on the first eclosion day, but immediately after light‐on on the second day. We hypothesized that incomplete entrainment of the endogenous pacemaker to the light–dark (LD) cycle is responsible for the daily variation. Due to the very short pupal period of this species, adult emergence may occur before complete synchronization of the pacemaker with the external cycle on the first eclosion day. Therefore, the peak time on the first eclosion day may differ significantly from that on the second day. To verify this hypothesis, using pupae that had pupariated within 24 h, the time difference between the first and second peaks was compared in LD 12:12 or constant darkness at five different temperatures from 30 to 15°C. In both light regimes, the time difference decreased with decreasing temperature and extended pupal duration. The interval between the eclosion peaks approached 24 h, supporting this hypothesis. These results can be interpreted by using a two‐oscillator model.