bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A systematic review of the Metaverse in formal education
Authors: Shi Chao , Park Jung Yeon
Published: September 2024

Purpose

In light of the burgeoning interest in the Metaverse within educational contexts, this study provides a comprehensive review to address the knowledge gap prevalent among K-12 and higher education teachers and educators. The increasing integration of the Metaverse into classroom settings necessitates a systematic exploration of its impact on subject-specific pedagogy, assessment methods, research methodologies and overall learning outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The research design involves a systematic review of 34 selected studies published between 2009 and 2023. The inclusion criteria prioritize investigations into Metaverse applications in classroom teaching, with a focus on subject disciplines, pedagogical approaches, measurement metrics and research methodologies. The selected studies undergo a detailed analysis and synthesis to extract meaningful patterns and trends.

Findings

The analysis reveals a predominant concentration on higher education, encompassing both science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) and non-STEM disciplines. However, few studies adopt comprehensive experimental designs. This suggests a gap in the methodological rigor of current research on Metaverse integration in education. While the Metaverse's impact on higher education is evident, the study underscores the need for more robust experimental designs and comprehensive research methodologies.

Research limitations/implications

The limited exploration of students' experiences with the Metaverse in educational settings highlights a nascent research area that warrants further investigation. Future research should prioritize measuring students' perceptions and performance through indicators such as test grades to enhance our understanding of the Metaverse's efficacy in educational contexts.

Originality/value

The study aims to offer insights into the current state of Metaverse integration in education and identify areas for further research and development.
From tradition to technological advancement: embracing blockchain technology in family businesses
Authors: Kumar Deepak
Published: September 2024

Purpose

Despite the rapid advancement of blockchain technology across various sectors, scholarly research on its application within family businesses remains significantly underdeveloped. This study aims to address this gap by examining the application of blockchain technology within family businesses to identify key application domains, benefits and implementation challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a conceptual approach, drawing on existing literature on family businesses and blockchain technology. This review aimed to identify the unique characteristics of family businesses, their challenges and the distinctive features of blockchain technology that can potentially be mapped to each other. Based on the literature review, we develop a conceptual framework exploring blockchain technology applications in family businesses. Real-world case studies of family businesses that have implemented blockchain technology were identified to provide practical insights and implementation challenges.

Findings

Blockchain technology possesses transformative potential for family businesses across several critical domains. It includes enhancing trust and transparency in operations, improving governance and decision-making and facilitating succession planning and intergenerational wealth management. Case study evidence illustrates the tangible benefits of blockchain, including enhanced supply chain transparency, optimized business processes, increased customer trust and resultant business sustainability. Blockchain technology implementation challenges include data privacy concerns, integration with legacy systems, regulatory uncertainty and change management issues.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by its reliance on existing literature and case studies. It may not capture the full spectrum of challenges and opportunities associated with blockchain applications in family businesses. Future research should focus on longitudinal and empirical research to provide a deeper understanding of the impact of blockchain technology application in family businesses.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by exploring the intersection of family businesses and blockchain technology, an area that has received limited academic attention. It identifies potential application domains of blockchain technology in family businesses and develops a conceptual framework based on existing literature. Through case studies, the research provides practical insights and valuable lessons for family businesses considering blockchain implementation. It also addresses key considerations and challenges, providing a clear roadmap for blockchain technology integration in family businesses. The study lays the groundwork for further research and exploration in blockchain technology and family businesses.
Social entrepreneurship and rural development in post-independence Indonesia
Authors: Imanuella Stella Franciska , Idris Aida , Kamaruddin Nurliana
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore how social entrepreneurship initiatives and rural development address various socio-economic challenges in rural communities following Indonesia’s independence in 1945.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a pragmatic research philosophy, this study uses a historical review and thematic analysis, extending from the PRISMA method to analyse articles and reports concerning social entrepreneurship initiatives and rural development in post-independence Indonesia.

Findings

This study reveals that social entrepreneurship initiatives and rural development programs have advanced hand in hand since Indonesia's independence. Social entrepreneurship initiatives and rural development mutually reinforce each other, with social entrepreneurship prominently featured in many rural development projects, promoting socioeconomic changes in rural communities.

Research limitations/implications

While this review has covered the available literature in Indonesia's context and extends the social entrepreneurship concept by showcasing its impact in rural Indonesia, further theoretical models integrating social entrepreneurship and rural development are needed, especially with local or regional context and community-driven approaches to increase the research potential in the field.

Practical implications

This study is beneficial for policymakers in the field to consider the findings of this review on the strong association that social entrepreneurship has had with rural development in Indonesia.

Social implications

This study highlights the importance of local values and community participation in social entrepreneurship initiatives for rural development. It is also highlighted that social entrepreneurship initiatives enable rural women to participate in entrepreneurial activities.

Originality/value

This study concludes that prior studies consistently demonstrate a strong association between social entrepreneurship initiatives and rural development, with government policies and programs increasingly leveraging social entrepreneurial approaches to tackle rural challenges. Additionally, rural development strategies in Indonesia align with three strategic pillars established by the government’s entrepreneurship programs. These pillars, integral to rural development through the social entrepreneurship approach, are critical for the formulation and future action plans adjustable to the current trends, issues and circumstances.
Expert consensus on systemic therapy for plaque psoriasis with limited skin involvement in JAPAN: Results from a DELPHI study
Authors: Morita Akimichi , Okubo Yukari , Imafuku Shinichi , Tada Yayoi , Abe Masatoshi , Gibson A. E. J. , Becker Frauke , Bogoeva Nataliya , Ohtsuki Mamitaro
Published: September 2024

Our objective was to establish consensus on (1) which patients with plaque psoriasis and limited skin involvement (body surface area [BSA] <10%) are suitable for systemic treatment, and (2) a definition of ‘topical therapy failure’. A steering committee refined 13 statements drawn from literature related to the study objectives. An independent panel of 45 clinical experts from Japan indicated their agreement to each statement using a 10‐point Likert scale (Round 1; strong consensus, ≥70% of responses = 7–10 and median value ≥8). The steering committee reviewed Round 1 results and refined the statements for Round 2, as necessary. In Round 2, the panel indicated their agreement to each statement using a 3‐point scale (strong consensus, ≥70% of responses and median value of 3) and were shown Round 1 responses before voting. Forty‐five clinicians participated in Round 1 and 41 of those (91%) participated in Round 2. Consensus was achieved on the criteria of eligibility for systemic treatment among patients with limited skin involvement as disease involvement at special or difficult to treat areas, psoriasis‐induced psychological distress, uncontrolled symptoms (e.g., scaling, bleeding, pruritus, insomnia) affecting their social life, psoriatic arthritis, or failure of topical therapy. Consensus on criteria for topical failure were persistent symptoms (e.g., itchiness, pain) and plaques, poor patient satisfaction with treatment, a need to increase medication quantity or application time after treatment with two topicals for 4 weeks; or if the Psoriasis Area Severity Index score of >3 or Physician Global Assessment Score of ≥2 after 8 weeks treatment. Our Delphi panel proposes criteria to help physicians identify patients with psoriasis and limited skin involvement who would benefit from systemic therapy and suggests a definition for topical therapy ‘failure’ which could indicate a move to systemic treatment is warranted.
Labour Market Arrangements and Competition Law in Australia: Time for Change?
Authors: Smith Rhonda L.
Published: September 2024

As part of an ongoing review of Australia's Competition and Consumer Act (CCA) by Treasury, consideration is being given to removing the exemption from that law for conduct related to the labour market. This article considers whether there is sufficient justification to do so and, if so, how such conduct should be assessed under the CCA. No‐poach agreements are cartel conduct and other restrictive agreements may substantially lessen competition in labour markets. Nevertheless, in some circumstances there are legitimate reasons for some of these arrangements. Some suggestions are made as to how restrictive labour arrangements could be addressed by competition law.
Education level is associated with the occurrence and timing of hysterectomy: A cohort study of Canadian women
Authors: Brennand Erin A. , Scime Natalie V. , Huang Beili , McDonagh Hull Pauline
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Hysterectomy is a common surgery with discernible practice variations that could be influenced by socioeconomic factors. We examined the association between level of educational attainment and the occurrence and timing of hysterectomy in Canadian women.

Material and Methods

We conducted a prospective cohort study of 30 496 females in the Alberta's Tomorrow Project (2000–2015) followed approximately every 4 years using self‐report questionnaires. Educational attainment was defined as high school diploma or less, college degree, university degree (reference group), and postgraduate degree. We used logistic regression analyzing hysterectomy occurrence at any time and before menopause, separately, and flexible parametric survival models analyzing hysterectomy timing with age as the time scale. Multivariable models controlled for race/ethnicity, rural/urban residence, parity, oral contraceptive use, and smoking.

Results

Overall, 39.1% of females reported a high school diploma or less, 28.9% reported a college degree, 23.5% reported a university degree, and 8.5% reported a postgraduate degree. A graded association was observed between lower education and higher odds of hysterectomy (high school or less: adjusted odds ratio [AOR] 1.68, 95% CI 1.55–1.82; college degree: AOR 1.58, 95% CI 1.45–1.72); results were similar for premenopausal hysterectomy. A graded association between lower education and earlier timing of hysterectomy was also observed up to approximately age 60 (eg at age 40: high school or less adjusted hazard ratio [AHR] 1.61, 95% CI 1.49–1.75; college degree AHR 1.53, 95% CI 1.40–1.67).

Conclusions

Women with lower levels of education were more likely to experience hysterectomy, including hysterectomy before menopause and at younger ages.
Editorial: Cardiometabolic criteria matters inMASLD
Authors: Teng Margaret L. P. , Muthiah Mark D. , Huang Daniel Q.
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Tamaki et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18205andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18243
Letter: Potential impact ofHelicobacter pyloriinfection on oesophageal disorders in chronic liver disease—Authors' reply
Authors: Idalsoaga Francisco , Díaz Luis Antonio , Ayares Gustavo , Cabrera Daniel , Chahuan Javier , Monrroy Hugo , Halawi Houssam , Arrese Marco , Arab Juan Pablo
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Idalsoaga et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18193andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18220
Use of, time to, and type of first add‐on anti‐hyperglycaemic therapy to metformin in Australia, 2018–2022
Authors: Milder Tamara Y. , Lin Jialing , Pearson Sallie‐Anne , Greenfield Jerry R. , Day Richard O. , Stocker Sophie L. , Neuen Brendon L. , Falster Michael O. , de Oliveira Costa Juliana
Published: September 2024

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine contemporary trends in the use of, time to, and type of first add‐on anti‐hyperglycaemic therapy to metformin in Australia.

Methods

We used the dispensing records of a 10% random sample of Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS) eligible people. We included people aged 40 years and older initiating metformin from 1 January 2018 to 31 December 2020. Our primary outcome was first add‐on anti‐hyperglycaemic medicine within 2 years of metformin initiation. We analysed time to dispensing of first add‐on therapy. All analyses were stratified by metformin initiation year.

Results

Overall, 38 747 people aged 40 years and older initiated metformin between 2018 and 2020. Approximately one‐third (n = 12 946) of people received add‐on therapy with the proportion increasing slightly by year of metformin initiation (32.3% in 2018 to 34.8% in 2020). Amongst people with add‐on therapy following metformin initiation, sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) use increased from 28.8% (2018) to 35.0% (2020), and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA) increased from 3.0% to 9.6%, respectively. Dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors and sulfonylureas as first add‐on therapy decreased and insulin remained stable. One‐third of people with add‐on therapy initiated the therapy on the same day metformin was initiated, i.e. initial combination therapy.

Conclusions

Amongst people initiating metformin from 2018 to 2020, there was an increasing proportion of SGLT2i and GLP‐1 RA being used as first add‐on therapy. However, the overall prevalence of add‐on therapy was low. Advocacy to promote add‐on therapy with cardiorenal beneficial medicines is critical to reduce type 2 diabetes morbidity and mortality.
Quantifying regulatory limits for multiple stressors in an open and transparent way
Authors: Stoffels Rick J. , White Richard S. A.
Published: September 2024

Biodiversity is confronted globally by multiple stressors. Environmental policies must regulate these stressors to achieve targets, but how should that be done when the outcomes of limits on one stressor are contingent on other stressors, about which there is imperfect knowledge? Deriving regulatory frameworks that incorporate these contingencies is an emerging challenge at the science–policy interface. To be fit for implementation, these frameworks need to facilitate the inherently sociopolitical process of policy implementation and account transparently for uncertainty, such that practitioners and other stakeholders can more realistically anticipate the range of potential outcomes to policy. We developed an approach to quantify stressor limits that explicitly accounts for multistressor contingencies. Using an invertebrate data set collected over 30 years throughout New Zealand, we combined ecological and ecotoxicological models to predict biodiversity loss as a function of one stressor, treating multistressor contingencies as a form of uncertainty about the outcomes of limits on that stressor. We transparently accounted for that uncertainty by presenting regulatory limits as bands bounded between optimistic and pessimistic views that practitioners may have about the local context within which limits are applied. In addition to transparently accounting for uncertainties, our framework also leaves room for practitioners to build stakeholder consensus when refining limits to suit different local contexts. A criticism of this open, transparent approach is that it creates too much scope for choosing limits that are lenient on polluters, paralyzing on‐the‐ground management of multiple stressors, but we demonstrate that this is not necessarily the case.
BET inhibitors (BETi) influence oxidative phosphorylation metabolism by affecting mitochondrial dynamics leading to alterations in apoptotic pathways in triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells
Authors: Rossi Teresa , Iorio Egidio , Chirico Mattea , Pisanu Maria Elena , Amodio Nicola , Cantafio Maria Eugenia Gallo , Perrotta Ida , Colciaghi Francesca , Fiorillo Marco , Gianferrari Alessia , Puccio Noemi , Neri Antonino , Ciarrocchi Alessia , Pistoni Mariaelena
Published: September 2024

Repressing BET proteins' function using bromodomain inhibitors (BETi) has been shown to elicit antitumor effects by regulating the transcription of genes downstream of BRD4. We previously showed that BETi promoted cell death of triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) cells. Here, we proved that BETi induce altered mitochondrial dynamics fitness in TNBC cells falling in cell death. We demonstrated that BETi treatment downregulated the expression of BCL‐2, and proteins involved in mitochondrial fission and increased fused mitochondria. Impaired mitochondrial fission affected oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inducing the expression of OXPHOS‐related genes, SDHa and ATP5a, and increased cell death. Consistently, the amount of mitochondrial DNA and mitochondrial membrane potential (∆Ψm) increased in BETi‐treated cells compared to control cells. Lastly, BETi in combination with Metformin reduced cell growth. Our results indicate that mitochondrial dynamics and OXPHOS metabolism support breast cancer proliferation and represent novel BETi downstream targets in TNBC cells.
Marandu palisade grass‐forage peanut mixed pastures: Forage intake, animal behaviour, and canopy structure as affected by grazing intensities
Authors: Rodrigues da Cruz Priscila Junia , Vieira da Silva Denise , de Lima Italo Braz Gonçalves , Alves Gustavo Campos , Homem Bruno Grossi Costa , Alves Bruno Jose Rodrigues , Boddey Robert Michael , Sbrissia Andre Fischer , Casagrande Daniel Rume
Published: September 2024

Integrating forage legumes into grasslands offers numerous ecosystem services. However, the management of grass‐legume pastures is challenging because the interaction between the defoliation frequency and severity may affect the legume persistence and forage intake by grazing animals. This 2‐year study evaluated the most effective grazing intensity to increase forage intake while maintaining a balanced legume proportion in tropical pastures consisting of Brachiaria brizantha and Arachis pintoi. Three treatments (grazing intensities) were assessed: severe, moderate, and low, corresponding to stubble heights of 10, 15, and 20 cm, respectively, and a pre‐grazing height of 25 cm. Two purebred Tabapua heifers were used for each treatment, and additional put‐and‐take animals were introduced, as required. Canopy structure, grazing behaviour, nutritive value, and forage intake were evaluated. The legume proportion in herbage mass remained consistent across all intensities, averaging 35% pre‐ and 32% post‐grazing. The grazing duration remained consistent across treatments on the first and third days, with an average grazing time of 390 and 440 min, respectively. Under post‐grazing conditions, low‐intensity grazing had a 52% greater intake rate than severe‐intensity grazing, which was attributed to a greater biting rate (37.9 bites/min) and bite weight (0.9 g DM/bite). Moderate grazing intensity (stubble height of ~15 cm associated with a pre‐grazing height of ~25 cm) is recommended to manage a mixture of B. brizantha and A. pintoi when the objective is to couple high forage intake with a balanced legume proportion in the pasture.
The impact of fear of attacks on pain‐related disability in cluster headache: Insights from the fear avoidance model
Authors: Fox Janosch , Gaul Charly , Slijepcevic Mirjana , Ohse Julia , Peperkorn Nicolina , Shiban Youssef
Published: September 2024

Objective

This study utilized the theoretical framework of the “fear avoidance model” (FAM) and investigated the role of fear of attack in pain‐related disability. To this end, a measurement specific to cluster headache (CH) was used to investigate whether fear of attacks, alongside attack frequency, is a significant predictor of pain‐related disability in CH.

Background

Cluster headache substantially impacts daily functioning, yet empirical research exploring specific contributing factors is limited.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was undertaken in patients with CH, gathering sociodemographic, clinical data, and responses on the Cluster Headache Scale and the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale.

Results

Analysis of data from 640 patients (chronic CH: 287/640 [44.8%]; female: 264/640 [41.3%]; male: 373/640 [58.3%]; gender diverse: three of 640 [0.5%]; age range: 18–86 years; mean [standard deviation] Cluster Headache Scales subscale disability score: 36.9 [9.8]; out of 869 respondents) revealed that both attack frequency and fear of attacks significantly predicted pain‐related disability (p < 0.001, percentage of variance explained: R2 = 0.24). More variance was explained by fear of attacks (R2 = 0.22) than by attack frequency (R2 = 0.02). This relationship remained significant even when controlling for depression and anxiety, which were also identified as independent predictors of pain‐related disability (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.44).

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the relevance of psychological factors in CH‐related disability. Fear of attacks was found to be an independent predictor, while attack frequency was of minor relevance. Empirical investigation of the FAM in CH could improve the understanding of the mechanisms underlying disability and contribute to the development of CH‐specific interventions.
Patient Perceptions of Weight Stigma Experiences in Healthcare: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Robinson Kathleen M. , Robinson Kimberley A. , Scherer Aaron M. , Mackin Melissa Lehan
Published: September 2024

Background

Weight stigma is the social devaluation and denigration of individuals because of their excess body weight, resulting in poorer physical and mental health and healthcare avoidance. Attribution Theory and Goffman's theory of spoiled identity provided a general overarching framework for understanding weight stigma experiences.

Objective

Our purpose was to explore weight stigma experiences from a broad range of perspectives emphasizing identities typically excluded in the weight stigma literature.

Design

We conducted a qualitative descriptive study with data drawn from 73 substantive narrative comments from participants who responded to a larger survey.

Results

Analysis developed five themes: Working on weight, Not being overweight, Lack of help and empathy, Exposure and embarrassment and Positive experiences. Individuals who would be clinically assessed as overweight, especially men, often did not identify with having a weight problem and found the framing of personal responsibility for weight empowering. Participants with larger body sizes more often attributed embarrassment and shame about weight to treatment in the clinical setting. Older participants were more likely to have positive experiences.

Conclusions

The findings suggest ongoing tension between the framing of weight as a personal responsibility as opposed to a multifactorial condition with many uncontrollable aspects. Gender, age and body size shaped respondent perspectives, with some young male respondents finding empowerment through perceived personal control of weight. The healthcare system perpetuates weight stigma through lack of adequate equipment and excessively weight‐centric medical counselling. Recommending a healthy lifestyle to patients without support or personalized medical assessment may perpetuate weight stigma and associated detrimental health outcomes.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients with obesity and overweight were integral to this study, providing comments for our qualitative analyses.
The Salience of Less Important Product Attributes
Authors: Park Jihye , Ko Dongwoo
Published: September 2024

The significance of product attributes, as reflected in online reviews during the initial purchase, may undergo changes following positive or negative product usage experiences. The purpose of this research was to investigate whether positive or negative product consumption experiences influence shifts in the perceived importance of product attributes and subsequent product choices, based on online quality ratings by attributes. A series of experiments demonstrated that the importance associated with an attribute's expectation in the pre‐purchase process shifted after a negative consumption experience with that attribute. The results showed that a change in both attribute importance and product choice following a negative attribute experience. A less important attribute that malfunctioned during the consumption experience became more crucial in the subsequent purchase (Study 1). However, this shift in importance may not be universal for all attributes; it was observed only when the attribute was moderately important (Study 2). This study contributes valuable empirical findings to the existing literature on online reviews by highlighting dynamic shifts in the importance weight of product attributes. E‐commerce practitioners are encouraged to allow formal purchasers to leave product reviews without time constraints, providing a platform for reflecting users' lifelong consumption experiences.
Editor's highlights — October, 2024
Authors: Kemény Lajos
Published: September 2024

Dermatology has seen significant advancements in understanding and treating complex immune‐mediated chronic inflammatory skin conditions such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. This editorial highlights five pivotal studies that delve into the real‐world effectiveness of biological therapies and the challenges of treating pediatric patients with overlapping dermatological conditions. These studies collectively underscore the need for continued research and treatment approaches in dermatology.
Turpentine fruit paste as an ingredient of wheat bread: physicochemical and sensory properties
Authors: Qasem Akram A. , Mohamed Ahmed Isam A. , Mohammed Belal M. , Özcan Mehmet Musa , Albakry Zainab
Published: September 2024

The physical, chemical, phenolic constituents, fatty acids and mineral contents of the breads produced from wheat flour and turpentine paste at different concentrations were analysed by chromatographic and spectrophotometric methods. L*, a* and b* results of the breads were equal to 49.28–74.51, 0.90–6.55 and 13.45–20.19, respectively. Total phenolic and flavonoid quantities of the breads prepared by adding turpentine fruit paste at different concentrations were depicted to be between 26.15 (control) and 222.66 mg GAE/100 g (20%) to 74.52 (control) and 389.29 mg/100 g (20% turpentine fruit paste), respectively. Also, antioxidant activities of breads with turpentine paste were assigned to be between 2.44 (control) and 7.29 mmol kg−1 (20% turpentine paste). Gallic acid amounts of the breads were specified to be between 3.51 (control) and 16.98 mg/100 g (20% turpentine paste). Oleic and linoleic acid values of the bread oils were depicted to be between 45.34 (control) and 53.66% (3%) to 23.66 (3%) and 26.35% (control), respectively. K, P, S, Ca and Mg were the most abundant elements of bread samples. The changes in physical, chemical, phenolic components, fatty acids and mineral contents and sensory properties of the breads produced with turpentine paste added to wheat flour at different concentrations were determined.
Colorimetric loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) for identification of crocodile meat in raw meat and commercial processed meat products
Authors: Thangsunan Pattanapong , Thangsunan Patcharapong , Uchuwittayakul Anurak , Suree Nuttee , Jakmunee Jaroon
Published: September 2024

Deliberate and accidental adulteration or substitution of crocodile meat with other meats is possibly seen in meat products, which could be challenging to identify. This research aims to develop a new loop‐mediated isothermal amplification for accurately identifying crocodile meat in raw meat and processed food samples. Conditions for LAMP were initially optimised. The LAMP was proven for its high specificity to only crocodile DNA. The LAMP revealed a detection limit of 1 pg/μL crocodile DNA and 0.01% (w/w) crocodile meat in meat admixtures. From forty‐seven commercial processed meat samples, the LAMP detected crocodile content in ten products with the declaration of crocodile on their labels. Without the requirement of DNA purification, the direct LAMP showed its ability to detect crocodile content in both fresh meat and processed meat samples. This LAMP could become a promising alternative to support the food industry, especially for on‐site services and limited‐resource laboratories.
Curcumin‐loaded nanoparticles developed from sodium caseinate and OSA starch and the in vitro semi‐dynamic elderly digestion behaviour of fortified yogurt
Authors: Wang Ruijie , Deng Leiyu , Jin Weiping , Meng Qi , Han Jianzhong , Liu Weilin
Published: September 2024

Curcumin is a bioactive substance, while poor stability and low bioavailability limit its effective utilisation. Curcumin‐loaded nanoparticles were prepared using the wall materials containing OSA starch alone (HI), sodium caseinate alone (SC), and a mixture of OSA starch and sodium caseinate (HS). Compared to HI and SC, HS had obvious network structure and smaller particle size, with the loading capacity higher than 20%. The storage stability at 4 °C were higher in HS and SC, FTIR and XRD results showed that all nanoparticles encapsulated curcumin through hydrogen bonding. When nanoparticles were added to yogurt, HI showed slower curcumin release during in vitro semi‐dynamic elderly digestion, whereas SC and HS can better accelerate the digestion rate of proteins in yogurt, leading to a decrease in the apparent viscosity of digestive emptying products. This study provided a reference for curcumin delivery wall materials and pushed forward development of functional foods for elderly.
Degradation of sesame hull pectin during roasting: catalytic effects of four inorganic chloride salts
Authors: Zheng Chuan‐Lei , Qin Zhi , Wang Kun‐Qi , Gao Tian‐Tian , Lu Hui‐Hui , Liu Xin‐Yao , Liu Hua‐Min , Wang Xue‐De , Wen Xin‐Yu , Zhang Hong‐Yu , Liu Hong‐Wei
Published: September 2024

Sesame seed hull contains a substantial concentration of minerals. During the roasting, these minerals assume a catalytic function in the degradation of the sesame seed hull pectin. In this work, the effect of four inorganic chloride salts on the structure and thermal degradation products of sesame hull pectin during heating was investigated. The results indicated that, during roasting, chloride salts catalysed the degradation of pectin polysaccharide side chain regions more than the linear main chain. The introduction of chloride salts reduced the rate of mass loss from sesame hull pectin and resulted in a shift of the main peak towards a lower temperature range. The introduction of KCl and NaCl resulted in a significant decrease in the yield of furans and an increase in the proportion of small molecules such as acids and aldehydes in the thermal degradation products of sesame peel pectin, suggesting that the presence of KCl and NaCl facilitated the fragmentation of the sugar units. In contrast, MgCl2 and CaCl2 clearly facilitated the formation of furans and exhibited a discernible catalytic effect on the degradation of acidic substances. This study contributes to the understanding of the effect of minerals on the degradation behaviours of pectin in sesame hulls during sesame processing.
Shortbread cookies reformulation by raspberry powder enrichment: functional and sensory aspects
Authors: De Santis Diana , Ferri Serena , Rossi Alice , Frisoni Riccardo , Modesti Margherita
Published: September 2024

The consumer is looking for foods that can satisfy the need to combine nutrition and well‐being, not only balanced in their composition but also endowed with properties that can improve, or at least maintain, a good state of health. The study aims to enrich the short‐crust pastry with raspberry powder, as a base for breakfast biscuits, increasing its antioxidant properties. Optimising the extent of integration with raspberry powder helped avoid interference with the cross‐linking process of the gluten mesh. The reformulation of shortbread cookies was compared with that of non‐enriched biscuits to define chemical composition, antioxidant potential, and sensory profile. A consumer test helped to evaluate the acceptability of the new formulations. The results indicate that the integration with the optimal identified percentage of raspberry powder, by‐products of juice production, represents an excellent matrix to increase the health properties of shortbread cookies, improving functionality and sensory acceptability.
Enhanced tofu quality through calcium sulfate and transglutaminase treatment: physicochemical properties and digestibility analysis
Authors: Liu Jia , Yang Siran , Tang Ruyi , Yang Wenjing , Xing Guangliang
Published: September 2024

Tofu, a traditional soy‐based food, is widely consumed globally and serves as a significant source of plant protein. The quality of tofu can vary greatly depending on the coagulation process and the type of coagulants used. This study investigated the impact of a compound coagulant, consisting of transglutaminase (TGase) and calcium sulfate (CaSO4), on tofu quality, specifically focusing on pH, yield, water holding capacity (WHC), cooking loss, protein content, and in vitro digestibility. Soymilk was pre‐crosslinked with TGase for different durations (0, 1, 2, and 3 h) before the addition of CaSO4. Results indicated that TGase pre‐treatment significantly improved tofu yield and WHC, with optimal outcomes at 3 and 2 h, respectively. Cooking loss decreased with TGase treatment but increased at the 3‐h mark, suggesting over‐crosslinking. Electrophoresis revealed substantial protein crosslinking with TGase treatment, while in vitro digestion showed enhanced protein digestibility and higher peptide content in TGase‐treated samples. These findings underscore the potential of TGase treatment to enhance tofu's structural integrity and digestibility, offering valuable insights for optimising plant‐based protein processing to improve nutritional quality.
Sourcing algorithms: Rethinking fairness in hiring in the era of algorithmic recruitment
Authors: Alexander Leo , Song Q. Chelsea , Hickman Louis , Shin Hyun Joo
Published: September 2024

Sourcing algorithms are technologies used in online platforms to identify, screen, and inform potential applicants about job openings. The popularity of such technologies is rapidly increasing due to their pervasiveness in online advertising and beliefs that sourcing algorithms can decrease time to hire while improving the quality of new hires. What is little known, however, are their potential risks: sourcing algorithms could (intentionally or unintentionally) encode or exacerbate occupational demographic disparities, thereby hindering organizational diversity and/or decreasing the effectiveness of online hiring practices. Because sourcing algorithms identify and screen potential job applicants before they are made aware of employment opportunities, methods for evaluating discrimination in hiring which focus solely on job applicants (e.g., adverse impact ratio), may fail to detect the effects of discriminatory sourcing algorithms. Thus, we propose an expanded model of the employee hiring process to take into account the role of sourcing algorithms. Based on empirical approximations, we conducted a Monte Carlo simulation study to examine the magnitude and nature of sourcing algorithms' influence on hiring outcomes. Our findings suggest that sourcing algorithms could hinder the diversity of new hires while misleadingly suggesting positive diversity outcomes in personnel selection. We provide practical guidance for the use of sourcing algorithms and call for a systematic re‐examination of how to evaluate selection system fairness in the era of algorithmic recruitment.
Prevalence of SARS‐CoV‐2 Antibodies in Kosovo‐Wide Population‐Based Seroepidemiological Study
Authors: Ramadani Naser , Hoxha‐Gashi Sanije , Gexha‐Bunjaku Dafina , Kalaveshi Arijana , Jakupi Xhevat , Humolli Isme , Vaughan Aisling , Pebody Richard , Kacaniku‐Gunga Pranvera , Jashari Violeta
Published: September 2024

Background

Seroprevalence studies have proven to be an important tool in tracking the progression of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic. The aim of this study was to measure the seroprevalence of antibodies to severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in the general population of Kosovo by gender, age group and region and among asymptomatic people.

Method

The Institute of Public Health of Kosovo conducted a cross‐sectional population‐based survey, aligned with the protocols of the WHO Unity Studies, from the beginning of May to the end of June 2021.

Results

The survey covered a total of 2204 people with a response rate of 91.8% (41.9% [923] males and 51.2% [1281] females). In May to June 2021, the prevalence of antibodies in the overall population (IgG antibodies ≥ 1.1) was 37.0%. Seroprevalence was 34.4% in men and 38.9% in women (p < 0.05), with the highest percentage (48.7%) found in the 60–69 years' age group. The overall prevalence of acute IgM antibodies (IgM ≥ 1.1) was 1% (95% CI: 0.7%–1.5%), with no significant difference between genders and the highest prevalence among participants of 60–69 years of age (1.6%; 95% CI: 0.7%–3.6%).

Conclusion

A high prevalence of antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 was found in Kosovo before the start of the vaccination campaign. However, the results of the survey suggested that, by the end of June 2021, a desirable level of protection from the SARS‐CoV‐2 virus had not been reached.
Navigating Life With Parkinson's Disease: A Focus Group Study on Coping Strategies and Considerations for Self‐Management Support
Authors: Daemen Maud M. J. , De Bruijn‐Heijligers Bouke A. A. G. , Van Der Heijden Colin , Boots Lizzy M. M. , Oosterloo Mayke , De Vugt Marjolein E. , Duits Annelien A.
Published: September 2024

Aim

To investigate the experiences of people with Parkinson's disease in coping with and adapting to their disease and to identify considerations for a tailored self‐management support program.

Design

A descriptive phenomenological focus group study.

Methods

Five semi‐structured focus groups were conducted between April 2023 and June 2023 in the Netherlands, with 12 people with Parkinson's disease. Two researchers independently performed an inductive content analysis.

Results

Three principal categories emerged: (1) Rational realisation versus emotional experience: the coping strategy transition. This category includes three main coping strategies: denial or avoidance coping, acknowledging with less active coping and proactive and task‐oriented coping. (2) Factors that influence coping, including mindset and skills, social circles and communication and access to support and care. (3) Considerations for successful self‐management of Parkinson's disease, highlighting key areas such as psycho‐emotional guidance, nutrition and lifestyle, peer support and maintaining autonomy and sense of identity.

Conclusion

Coping and adaptation strategies are individual and dynamic processes, with multiple key or turning points during the transition between strategies. Tailored self‐management support can enhance coping abilities during these transitions, fostering adaptation to a life with Parkinson's disease.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

A patient‐focused version of an existing blended self‐management support program for family caregivers will be developed, which will be delivered by healthcare professionals.

Impact

This study can help healthcare professionals tailor support for people with Parkinson's disease, emphasising their role in facilitating coping and adaptation. Enhancing self‐management can improve self‐efficacy, quality of life and potentially reduce healthcare utilisation in people with Parkinson's disease.

Reporting Method

Findings are reported according to the COREQ guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients and Parkinson's disease experts participated in the preparation and implications of the findings. All participants could contribute to the self‐management support program, either through video interviews or content feedback.
Calibrating acceleration transmitters to quantify the seasonal energetic costs of activity in lake trout
Authors: Reeve Connor , Smith Kurtis A. , Bzonek Paul A. , Cooke Steven J. , Blanchfield Paul J. , Brownscombe Jacob W.
Published: September 2024

Bioenergetics models are powerful tools used to address a range of questions in fish biology. However, these models are rarely informed by free‐swimming activity data, introducing error. To quantify the costs of activity in free‐swimming fish, calibrations produced from standardized laboratory trials can be applied to estimate energy expenditure from sensor data for specific tags and species. Using swim tunnel respirometry, we calibrated acceleration sensor‐equipped transmitting tags to estimate the aerobic metabolic rates (ṀO2) of lake trout (Salvelinus namaycush) at three environmentally relevant temperatures. Aerobic and swim performance were also assessed. Like other calibrations, we found strong relationships between ṀO2 and acceleration or swimming speed, and jackknife validations and data simulations suggest that our models accurately predict metabolic costs of activity in adult lake trout (~5% algebraic error and ~20% absolute error). Aerobic and swim performance metrics were similar to those reported in other studies, but their critical swimming speed was lower than expected. Additionally, lake trout exhibited a wide aerobic scope, suggesting that the avoidance of waters ≥15°C may be related to selection for optimal growing temperatures. The ability to quantify the free‐swimming energetic costs of activity will advance our understanding of lake trout ecology and may yield improvements to bioenergetics model.
Possible determinants of physical fitness in Japanese school children: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yoshikawa Aya , Asakura Keiko , Mori Sachie , Fujiwara Aya , Sasaki Satoshi , Nishiwaki Yuji
Published: September 2024

Background

Physical fitness is one of the most important health indicators in children. Although appropriate body composition or certain lifestyle factors such as frequent physical activity are thought to improve physical fitness, results of previous studies are inconsistent, and most studies were from Western countries.

Objectives

We investigated associations of body composition and modifiable lifestyle factors such as physical activity, screen time, diet and sleep duration with physical fitness in Japanese primary school children.

Methods

2308 children (age 10–12 years old) in 12 primary schools were analysed in this cross‐sectional study. Physical fitness was evaluated by sports battery tests conducted routinely and annually at schools. The total score of sports battery tests, 20‐m shuttle run (laps) and grip strength (kg) were selected as outcomes. Information about lifestyle factors was collected by two questionnaires. Associations between lifestyle factors and physical fitness were assessed by multivariable linear mixed models by sex.

Results

Frequent exercise was related to better overall physical fitness. Regarding the 20‐m shuttle run, many unfavourable lifestyle factors such as higher BMI in boys (β −7.37, 95% confidence interval [CI] −8.39, −6.35) and girls (β −3.54, 95% CI −4.50, −2.58), longer screen time (β −4.31, 95% CI −7.29, −1.34) in boys and girls (β −5.65, 95% CI −9.01, −2.30); shortest (reference) versus longest, breakfast skipping in boys (β −5.24, 95% CI −8.71, −1.77) and girls (β −3.57, 95% CI −6.84, −0.30); consumers (reference) versus skippers were associated with worse performance. Better quality of diet was associated with better results in the 20‐m shuttle run only in girls (β 2.58, 95% CI 0.24, 4.93); lowest (reference) versus highest.

Conclusions

Frequent exercise was related to better physical fitness. Higher BMI and unfavourable lifestyle factors such as longer screen time and breakfast skipping were associated with worse results of the 20‐m shuttle run.
Corporate Solidarity in Stalin’s USSR: Arrests and Release of NKVD Officers in the 1930s–1940s
Authors: Khlevniuk Oleg V.
Published: September 2024

Purges and high‐profile political cases were constantly, though with varying degrees of intensity, brought down on Soviet functionaries in the 1920s–1950s. However, judging by the latest research, repressions did not completely stop the stabilization and formation of corporate cohesion within the nomenklatura, convincing signs of which already had appeared under Stalin. This trend, which in many ways determined the nature of the Soviet system’s development, is significant. However, its study requires considerable effort, including analyzing new sources reflecting the practices of the nomenklatura’s resistance to repressive pressure from above. This article addresses this problem through the prism of a well‐known phenomenon: the purges of NKVD officers, who themselves conducted mass repressions in 1937–38. Newly available archival documents make it possible to investigate several critical interrelated questions. First, what was the situation of convicted Chekists in the camps? Second, what were the mechanisms for the early release of former officers? Third, what were the subsequent trajectories of restoring the Chekists’ social status?
Taking Their Game to the Next Level: Why Members Support Party Digitalization
Authors: Gherghina Sergiu , Marian Claudiu
Published: September 2024

The scholarship on party digitalization discusses why, how and with what consequences parties use digitalization. Such a detailed account of the supply side contrasts sharply with the limited information we have about the demand side. We know little about party members' support for digitalization. To address this gap in the literature, our article aims to explain what drives the support for digitalization within political parties. We use individual‐level data from an original survey conducted in March–April 2023 with 2,032 members of the second largest party in Romania. The statistical analysis tests the effects of two main categories of explanations: technology winners and reinforcement hypothesis. We find that those party members who are active and informed about party activities will support party digitalization. The results hold when controlling for technology experience and skills, length of membership, position in the party and age.