bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Have we reached a technological plateau? A situational awareness approach to overcome the barriers limiting the development of BIM-based plugins
Authors: Saad Ali M. , Badran Hasan D. , Ajayi Saheed , Sarhan Saad
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The construction industry has embraced building information modelling (BIM) as a practical methodology towards digitalisation. However, critics believe BIM has reached a plateau in addressing distinctive construction challenges. As a result, literature has seen an increase in the development and use of BIM-based plugins. Overall, the plugins have been critical in delivering custom-built solutions to longstanding construction challenges. The purpose of this study is to empirically investigate this trend and the potential barriers undermining the wider development of BIM plugins, by that contributing to a stimulating research topic and a growing knowledge gap.

Design/methodology/approach

Methodologically, this study used a quantitative approach to collect data through a carefully designed questionnaire. This study achieved a sample size of 39 experts who have been involved in developing, experimenting and publishing BIM-based plugins for specific construction activities.

Findings

The findings led to the identification of the key barriers to using BIM-based plugins and the identification of the key strategies to overcome them across the three situational awareness (SA) phases. Results also suggest that the development and use of plugins are destined to increase, and the research community can now rely on the insights of this paper as a departure point to address the technological plateau in BIM-related research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to empirically identify and assess the barriers undermining the wider development of BIM-based plugins. This study contributes to theory by building on SA, by challenging existing wisdom and fostering new knowledge around strategies to overcome the evaluated barriers.
Interactive and educational simulation tool for permanent magnet synchronous machines
Authors: Schugardt Alexander , Kaiser Louis , Avcilar Fatih , Schäfer Uwe
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to present an interactive design and simulation tool for permanent magnet synchronous machines based on the finite-element-method. The tool is intended for education and research on electrical machines.

Design/methodology/approach

A coupling between the software MATLAB and finite element method magnetics is used. Several functionalities are included as modular scripts and represented in the form of a graphical user interface. Included are fully parametrized motor models, automatic winding generations and the evaluation of torque waveforms, core losses and speed-torque-diagrams. A survey was conducted to determine how the motivation of students concerning the covered topics is influenced by using the tool.

Findings

Due to its simplicity and the intuitive visualization of the results, the tool provides direct access to the topic of electrical machines without having to deal with separate scripts. The modular structure of the software allows simple extensions with new functions. Because students can directly contribute to the tool with their own work, their motivation for using and extending it increases.

Originality/value

The presented tool offers more functionalities compared to similar free software packages, e.g. the calculation of core losses and speed-torque diagrams. Also, it is designed in such a way that it can be easily understood and extended by students.
Digital economy and regional innovation: unveiling the spatial dynamics and human capital influence in China
Authors: Bu Ya , Yu Xinghui , Li Hui
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the digital economy's influence on China's regional innovation and development. It focuses on direct effects and spatial spillover across regions, and the mediating role of human capital. This analysis is vital for policy and strategic planning in the digital era.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses panel data from 30 Chinese provinces (2004–2019) and uses the entropy method to quantify the digital economy's development. It investigates its impact on regional innovation using a dynamic spatial Durbin model (SDM) and mediation effect model, assessing direct effects, spatial spillover and human capital's mediating role. Various control variables are included for comprehensive analysis.

Findings

Findings show the digital economy significantly boosts regional innovation, acting as a growth driver. However, impacts vary regionally, with the central region gaining more than the eastern and western areas. Spatial spillover effects are mixed, showing negative short-term and positive long-term impacts under different weight matrices. Human capital is crucial for fostering innovation through the digital economy.

Originality/value

The paper offers unique insights into the spatial dynamics of the digital economy's impact on regional innovation in China. It advances understanding of the digital economy's role in regional development using innovative methods like the entropy method and dynamic SDM. Highlighting human capital as a key mediating factor enriches discussions on digital economy strategies for regional innovation.
Optimization design of custom pattern based on microclimate heat transfer
Authors: Zhang Yijie , Guo Ziyi , Wei Jiangang , Li Yijun
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to achieve a reasonable microclimate between clothing and the human body and optimize the custom dress pattern.

Design/methodology/approach

An interactive design method of 3D modeling, virtual try-on and heat transfer simulation are used. First, a 3D dress is designed with nonuniform rational B-splines curves and tried on virtually. After that, the heat transfer in the body-air-clothing microclimate and temperature distributions on the clothing surface are obtained. Based on the heat transfer in the body-air-clothing system, we design a method to improve the thermal comfort by optimizing the garment pattern digitally. Then, this paper utilized two heat transfer validating indexes to quantify the improvement of thermal comfort, and evaluate the modified model of dress.

Findings

The microclimate under the clothing is varied with the air gap distance, and the heat transfer on the area of the clavicle, bust point and front abandon are higher than other parts due to the narrow air gaps. In view of thermal comfort, the pattern optimization changes the distance ease and reforms the air circulating efficiency. The mean heat transfer and its standard variance are changing by about 10% and more than 20%. Thus, the heat transfer evaluation indexes are suitable to represent the heat transfer and thermal comfort in the microclimate system.

Research limitations/implications

It can be concluded that the methodology proposed in this paper has the advantage of interactive design, 3D visualization and local heat transfer simulation. This technology meets the need of personalized customization and well-considered garment and has broad application prospects.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that modifying the distance ease on body key girths based on heat transfer is a reliable way to improve thermal comfort. This method meets the consumers’ demand of the comfort of body-fit clothing under the condition of daily activities.
The effect of retail shelf position on private-label brand evaluations
Authors: Tofighi Maryam , Grohmann Bianca
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This research examines the effects of physical proximity (close vs distant) of retailers’ private label brands (PLBs) relative to national brands (NBs) and brand display orientation (horizontal [brands occupy the same shelf] vs vertical [brands occupy different shelves]) on consumers’ PLB quality perceptions and PLB evaluations.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experiments involving real brands in different product categories tested the hypotheses.

Findings

A PLB positioned close (vs distant) to a NB is evaluated more favorably and this effect is mediated by increased PLB quality perceptions, but only in a horizontal brand display. In a vertical brand display, a PLB positioned close (vs distant) to a NB is evaluated less favorably and this effect is mediated by decreased PLB quality perceptions.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that to enhance consumers’ PLB quality perceptions and evaluations, PLBs be positioned next to (rather than on separate shelves) and close to (rather than distant from) NBs in the same product category.

Originality/value

Although the literature suggests that the best shelf position for PLBs is close to NBs, there is a lack of empirical research on the effects of relative shelf positioning on consumers’ quality perceptions and subsequent PLB evaluations. This research finds that both physical proximity and brand display orientation play an important role.
Value implications of followers in social marketplaces: insights into ego network structures
Authors: Wang Shan , Wang Fang
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In social marketplaces, follower ego networks are integral social capital assets for online sellers. While previous research has underscored the positive impact of the follower number on seller performance, little attention has been given to the structure of follower networks and their value implications. This research investigates two structural properties of follower networks—network centralization and density—and examines their main and contingent effects on sellers’ sales performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A 13-month panel dataset of 1,150 sellers in Etsy, a social marketplace for handmade and vintage products, was collected and analyzed. A fixed effects model was adopted to validate the hypotheses on the main effect of centralization and density, as well as the moderating effects of two store attributes: store age and product diversification.

Findings

We find that both network centralization and density negatively impact sellers’ sales performance, and these effects vary across store age and product diversification levels. Specifically, the negative effect of network centralization is less pronounced for older stores than young ones, whereas the negative effect of density is more severe for stores with high product diversification.

Originality/value

This research contributes to social commerce research by highlighting the significance of network structure, alongside network size, in assessing the value of followers and offers practical guidance for sellers in social marketplaces seeking to optimize their follower networks.
Investigating the relationship between brand logo, customer satisfaction, attitude and repurchase intention of online services
Authors: Akbari Mohammad , Nazarzad Shadi , Ghasemi Namaghi Mohamad
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In this paper, the relationship of brand logo and purchase intention is investigated along with the mediating role of customer satisfaction, brand preference and brand attitude. The research is conducted on an online passenger transport company called Tapsi.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, we examine the positive effect of brand logo on brand attitude, consumer satisfaction and strengthening the intention to buy and brand preference by customer satisfaction. The statistical population was randomly selected. We design a conceptual model and then prepare a standard online questionnaire and send it to the target groups. Among this, the participants, 59% are women and 41% are men. After collecting the data through the software Smart-PLS3, we start the analysis. According to Cronbach's alpha and AVE, the validity and reliability of the model are confirmed.

Findings

The study shows that the brand logo has a positive and direct influence on customer attitude and satisfaction, and customer satisfaction mediates the purchase intention and brand preference. Given that the brand logo describes the company, managers must be very sensitive to design of a proper logo and spend enough time and money on it.

Originality/value

Few studies have examined the effectiveness of the brand logo the present study and the results show that the brand logo and its structures are directly related to brand attitude as a result of consumer satisfaction in all services even transportation services. The first thing consumers see when they first use a company’s services is the company logo. The brand and its logo can change the attitude and decision of the customer. Past studies have also shown that the brand logo can have a direct impact on customer satisfaction and customer preference for the brand. Therefore a model was prepared and the mentioned variables were selected. Brand preference as a mediating variable has a positive role on buying intention. However all relationships and their predictive power have been confirmed.
The impact of ICT on social workers' well-being: a mixed methods research
Authors: Khanchel-Lakhoua Hanen , Kadri Meissene
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) on the well-being of Tunisian social workers.

Design/methodology/approach

Resources (JD-R) theory. A questionnaire was administered to 162 Tunisian social workers, and statistical analysis and hypothesis testing were conducted using SPSS and SmartPLS software.

Findings

The study found that ICT has a substantial positive influence on social workers' well-being. Specifically, ICT was found to increase social workers' job resources, which in turn led to decreased job demands, increased burnout and increased work engagement.

Originality/value

This study addresses prior research gaps by exploring ICT's interplay with well-being within the Tunisian context. Its outcomes offer valuable insights for policymakers, guiding the development of strategies to address challenges and harness ICT's potential in social work.
Shirking in supply chain collaborations: do circular economy entrepreneurship and technical capability moderate impacts for circular economy performance?
Authors: Rijal Anita , Baah Charles , Agyabeng-Mensah Yaw , Afum Ebenezer , Acquah Innocent Senyo Kwasi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in emerging economies are encouraged to form supply chain collaborations (SCC) for better circular economy (CE) performance. Yet, the literature remains silent on SMEs’ susceptibility to opportunistic behaviors of supply chain (SC) partners. This study draws on the transaction cost theory (TCT) and the resource-based view (RBV) to investigate the impact of shirking on SCC and CE performance while exploring how circular economy entrepreneurship (CEE) can curb the impacts of shirking on SCC as well as drive technical capability (TC) to moderate the relationship between SCC and CE performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The TCT and RBV are used as a theoretical lens to investigate the direct, mediation and moderation effects tested via partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using survey data from 152 managers of SMEs in Nepal.

Findings

Contrary to past findings, the study results show that shirking, directly and indirectly, has a positive and significant impact on SCC and CE performance, respectively. The results also show that as CEE, which positively and significantly drives TC, moves from low to high levels, the effect of shirking on SCC dampens, and as TC moves from low to high levels, the effect of SCC on CE performance intensifies.

Originality/value

This study’s contribution lies in extending the shirking debate to the CE domain and also in identifying CEE and TC as potent means for SMEs in emerging economies to mitigate shirking impacts and induce SC partner commitments in CE-driven SCC. This study provides relevant theoretical and practical insights.
Accounting graduates’ perceptions on sustainability
Authors: Lejárraga-García Ana María , Ortiz-Martínez Esther , Marín-Hernández Salvador
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to test whether the perceptions of graduates of accounting-related degrees on the implications of companies’ commitment to sustainable development strategies can be influenced by certain factors associated with their previous training and characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on measuring and analyzing the assessment carried out by a sample of students graduating in degrees that include accounting subjects for five consecutive years, from 2016–2017 to 2020–2021, both inclusive. Nonparametric statistical tests are used to determine the type of association between the factors that characterize the graduates and their degree of agreement with the training they received and its relationship with their role in implementing corporate social responsibility (CSR) and sustainability strategies in the company.

Findings

The study’s significant findings reveal that the respondents’ perception of the training they received and their opinion of certain benefits provided by sustainable development and CSR strategies in organizations are positively related. This insight is crucial, as it suggests that the training graduates receive plays a pivotal role in shaping their understanding and support for sustainability. The respondents’ opinions do not vary depending on their personal and/or work characteristics, except in the type of contract, as significant differences are observed between the self-employed and temporary or nonworking workers and between those with a permanent contract and those who are linked to the company with a temporary contract.

Originality/value

In a field where most studies focus on employee–employer relationships and human resource management policies, this research stands out. It delves deeper, not just into employees’ perception of sustainability but also into the causes of this perception. It explores what factors may be influencing employees’ opinions on sustainability, and importantly, it extends this analysis to graduates who will be in charge of these issues. This work covers a significant gap in the research, incorporating the study of variables such as personal characteristics and work-related aspects of employees and the training received in accounting matters.
The prevention effect of Limosilactobacillus reuteri on acute kidney injury by regulating gut microbiota
Authors: Yang Zhan , Ni Juan , Sun Xuewei , Cui Qian , Zhang Xinrui , Zhang Mingyan , Zhu Xiaojing , Wu Zihan , Tang Chengliang , Zhu Jingfeng , Mao Huijuan , Liu Kang , Wang Chunhui , Xing Changying , Zhu Jin
Published: May 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) has considerably high morbidity and mortality but we do not have proper treatment for it. There is an urgent need to develop new prevention or treatment methods. Gut microbiota has a close connection with renal diseases and has become the new therapy target for AKI. In this study, we found the oral administration of the probiotic Limosilactobacillus reuteri had a prevention effect on the AKI induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS). It reduced serum concentration of creatinine and urea nitrogen and protected the renal cells from necrosis and apoptosis. Meanwhile, L. reuteri improved the gut barrier function, which is destroyed in AKI, and modulated the gut microbiota and relevant metabolites. Compared with the LPS group, L. reuteri increased the proportion of Proteobacteria and reduced the proportion of Firmicutes, changing the overall structure of the gut microbiota. It also influenced the fecal metabolites and changed the metabolite pathways, such as tyrosine metabolism, pentose and glucuronate interconversions, galactose metabolism, purine metabolism, and insulin resistance. These results showed that L. reuteri is a potential therapy for AKI as it helps in sustaining the gut barrier integrity and modulating gut microbiota and related metabolites.
Diversified cropping strengthens herbivore regulation by providing seasonal resource continuity to predators
Authors: Heinen Janina , Domínguez‐García Virginia , Aguilera Guillermo , Malsher Gerard , Vesterinen Eero , Roslin Tomas , Bommarco Riccardo , Bartomeus Ignasi
Published: May 2024

Agricultural practices shape arthropod communities in arable fields, consequently influencing their interactions and the resulting ecosystem services, in particular pest regulation. Predatory arthropods play a pivotal role by preying on herbivores, soil fauna, and on other predators. However, the intricate mechanisms through which agricultural practices shape the dietary preferences of predators, and regulate herbivore populations remain complex and inadequately understood.

We assessed how fertilisation with organic fertiliser and extending crop rotations with perennial ley affected predation pressure across prey taxa. We mapped predator and prey trophic linkages with molecular analysis of carabid predator gut contents, and measured densities and taxonomic richness of predators, herbivores, and soil fauna in 19 cereal fields during three samplings across the growing season.

We derived two food web structure metrics: prey vulnerability that is the average number of predators feeding on a selected prey, and predator trophic redundancy, that is dietary overlap. Prey vulnerability was compared among soil fauna, herbivores, and other predator species (that is interspecific intraguild predation) over the growing season, and across treatments. The mechanistic underpinnings of observed shifts in vulnerability of herbivorous prey at different crop stages were identified using information criteria to select among candidate variables related to the richness, density and interaction structure of the different guilds during both the current, and the previous crop stages.

Agricultural diversification via organic fertilisation combined with perennial ley in the crop rotation decreased the vulnerability of both intraguild prey and soil fauna prey, and stabilised herbivore vulnerability. Mechanistically, the vulnerability of herbivorous prey at crop ripening emerges from the combination of predator richness and trophic redundancy during this sampling round, rather than from carryover effects from previous crop stages.

Synthesis and applications: Our results suggest that locally provided resource continuity through diversified cropping practices bolster biological pest regulation, thus underline the importance of lesser disturbance in arable ecosystems for the provision of ecosystem services. Enhanced predator species richness together with availability of alternative prey through the season underpins this enhanced pest regulation.
JAE 2023: Report of the Editor‐in‐Chief
Authors: Brooks Jonathan
Published: May 2024

Submissions fell back slightly in 2023 to 474 manuscripts but remain above pre‐Covid levels. Despite the high number of submissions, there has been little change in the number of papers accepted for publication, with the acceptance rate in 2023 standing at 8%. The acceptance rate is considerably higher for papers originating from Europe and North America. Accepted papers are now routinely made available online as ‘Early View’. The Journal's Impact Factor fell back slightly for 2022, but still compares favourably with other journals in the field of agricultural economics. Operational changes include revisions to the journal's webpage and authors' guidelines and a newly configured editorial team.
Therapeutic plasma exchange in critically ill children: A single center experience
Authors: Yazici Özkaya Pinar , Koç Gülizar , Ersayoğlu İrem , Cebeci Kübra , Hekimci Özdemir Hamiyet , Karadas Nihal , Yilmaz Karapinar Deniz , Karapinar Bülent
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE) is used in a wide spectrum of diseases in critically ill pediatric patients. We aim to review the indications, complications, safety, and outcomes of critically ill children who received TPE.

Methods

All of the TPE procedures performed in a pediatric intensive care unit providing tertiary care during 19 years (January 2013–January 2023) were evaluated retrospectively. A total of 154 patients underwent 486 TPE sessions.

Results

Median age was 6 years (2–12.5) and 35 children had a body weight of <10 kg (22.7%). Number of organ failure was 4 (2–6). Liver diseases were the most common indication for TPE (31.2%) followed by sepsis with multiorgan dysfunction syndrome (27.3%). Overall survival rate was 72.7%. The highest mortality was observed in hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis group. Non‐survivors had significantly higher number of organ failure (p < 0.001), higher PRISM score (p < 0.001), and higher PELOD score on admission (p < 0.001). Adverse events were observed in 68 (13.9%) sessions. Hypotension (7.8%) and hypocalcemia (5.1%) were the most frequent adverse events.

Conclusion

TPE is safe for critically ill pediatric patients with experienced staff. Survival rate may vary depending on the underlying disease. Survival decreases with the increase in the number of failed organs.
Quality of life and sleep, depression, family functioning, and marital adjustment in patients on hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis
Authors: Kılıç Evnur Kahyacı , Kılıç İlhan , Görgülü Yasemin , Üstündağ Sedat
Published: May 2024

Introduction

End‐stage renal disease is different from other chronic diseases that the treatment method is as difficult. Our aim in this study was to compare marital adjustment, sexual functions and family functioning between hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patient.

Method

A total of 21 HD and 27 PD patients were included. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI), Short Form‐36 (SF‐36), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI), Arizona Sexual Experiences Scale (ASEX), Golombok‐Rust Inventory for Sexual Satisfaction (GRISS), Marital Adjustment Test (MAT) and Family Assessment Device (FAD) were applied.

Results

BDI scores were significantly higher in HD patients (p < 0.001). According to FAD problem solving (p < 0.001), communication (p = 0.00) and general functioning scores (p = 0.04) were higher in PD. The rate of poor sleep quality was 44.4% in the PD group, and 66.7% in HD group (p = 0.12). General health (p = 0.04), vitality (p < 0.001), mental health (p = 0.00) and social functioning (p = 0.00) scores were lower in HD patients.

Conclusion

HD patients are at high risk for psychiatric disorders due to the treatment modality. These patients should be monitored carefully and consultation‐liaison services should be increased.
Comparison of Australian Football League Women's athletes match day energy and nutrient intake to recommendations
Authors: Otte Chloe J. , Mantzioris Evangeline , Salagaras Brianna S. , Hill Alison M.
Published: May 2024

Aims

This cross‐sectional observational study quantified Australian Football League Women's athletes' match volume, and compared match‐day dietary intakes against recommendations.

Methods

Self‐report, direct observation, and fluid measurements determined dietary intake (n = 17, 25 ± 4.5 years, 22.8 ± 1.8 kg/m2) on five home match days (early or late starting). Global positioning system software captured match volume. Linear mixed effects models evaluated differences in early versus late match volume and nutrient intakes. Data are presented as mean ± standard deviation.

Results

Athletes covered 6712 ± 622 m during matches, with similar numbers of very high‐intensity running efforts over equal distances in early and late matches (early vs. late efforts [no.]: 8.5 ± 4.9 vs. 9.5 ± 5.5; distance [m]: 203 ± 127 vs. 212 ± 113). Across all match days, 71% (n = 12) of athletes met their predicted daily energy requirements. However, 82% (n = 14) failed to meet minimum daily carbohydrate recommendations; intake was lower on early compared with late match days (4.7 g/day vs. 5.4 g/kg/day, p = 0.027). On average, no athletes met carbohydrate recommendations in the 2 h prior to a match and only 24% (n = 4) met recommendations during matches. All athletes met post‐match carbohydrate and protein requirements.

Conclusion

Athletes cover large distances during games with frequent bursts of high‐intensity running. However, they do not adjust their intake to meet the energy demands of competition, with inadequate fuelling prior to and during matches. These findings emphasise the need for greater athlete education and dietary support to maximise strategic fuelling to optimise athletic performance.
Network pharmacology combined with an experimental validation study to reveal the effect and mechanism of Lonicera japonica Thunb. extracts against immunomodulation
Authors: Wang Wei , Pan Yunan , Lin Yucheng , Zhao Junjie , Liu Meimei , Wang Guangyu , Li Shanshan
Published: May 2024

Lonicera japonica Thunb. (LJT) is known for its valuable medicinal properties that highlight its potential application in the pharmaceutical and health food industry. We predict that LJT polyphenols by network pharmacology may be involved in immunomodulation, and the study of LJT polyphenols regulating immunity is still insufficient; therefore, we experimentally found that LJT enhances immunity by promoting the proliferation and phagocytic activity of RAW246.7 cells. A model of an immunosuppressed mouse was constructed using cyclophosphamide‐induced, and LJT was extracted for the intervention. We found that LJT restored immune homeostasis in immune deficiency mice by inhibiting the abnormal apoptosis in lymphocytes, enhancing natural killer cell cytotoxicity, promoting T lymphocyte proliferation, and increasing the CD4+ and CD8+ T lymphocytes in quantity. Moreover, LJT treatment modulates immunity by significantly downregulating lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammation and oxidative stress levels. We verified the immunomodulatory function of LJT through both cell and animal experiments. The combination of potential‐protein interactions and molecular docking later revealed that LJT polyphenols were associated with immunomodulatory effects on MAPK1; together, LJT intervention significantly modulates the immune, with the activation of MAPK1 as the underlying mechanism of action, which provided evidence for the utilization of LJT as a nutraceutical in immune function.
Structure‐function relationship of oat flour fractions when blended with wheat flour: Instrumental and nutritional quality characterization of resulting breads
Authors: Rashed Mahmoud Said , Pojić Milica , McDonagh Ciara , Gallagher Eimear , Frias Jesus M , Pathania Shivani
Published: May 2024

The present work investigated the structure‐function relationship of dry fractionated oat flour (DFOF) as a techno‐functional ingredient using bread as a model system. Mechanically, DFOF fractions (F), that is, F1: <224 µm, F2: 250–280 µm, F3: 280–500 µm, F4: 500–600 µm, and whole oat flour (F5) were blended with white wheat flour at 10%, 30%, and 50% substitution levels for bread making. The blended flours, doughs, and bread samples were assessed for their techno‐functional, nutritional, and structural characteristics. The results of Mixolab and the Rapid Visco Analyzer show that the 50% substituted F3 fraction exhibits the highest water absorption properties (69.53%), whereas the 50% F1 fraction exhibits the highest peak viscosity of the past slurry. Analysis of bread samples revealed a lower particle size of DFOF fractions and higher supplementation levels, increased β‐glucan levels (0.13–1.29 g/100 bread (db), reduced fermentable monosaccharides, that is, glucose (1.44–0.33 g/100 g), and fructose (1.06–0.28 g/100 g). The effect of particle size surpassed the substitution level effect on bread volume reduction. The lowest hardness value for F1 is 10%, and the highest value for F2 is 50%. The total number of cells in the bread slice decreased from the control to the F4 fraction (50%). Multi‐criteria analysis indicated that DFOF fractions produced breads with similar structure and higher nutritional value developed from white wheat flour.

Practical Application

The use of mechanically fractionated oat flours fractions in white wheat flour breads can improve the nutritional profile without affecting the physical properties of the bread product. Based on the oat flour fractions, bakers and food processing companies can tailor the bread formulations for high β‐glucan, high fiber, and low reduced sugar claims.
Study on the stability of molecular chirality and the configuration protection of dihydromyricetin in vine tea
Authors: Li Shuang , Sha Xuming , Sun Shanshan , Zhang Xing , Guo Dandan , Huang Shaohua
Published: May 2024

This study aims to investigate the impact of four key factors, namely, temperature, water source, metal ion, and pH, on the stability of molecular chirality of dihydromyricetin (DMY) and proposed effective strategies for configuration protection. The findings reveal that temperatures exceeding 80°C could accelerate the racemization process of DMY, with a significant increase in racemization observed at 100°C. In addition, DMY exhibited heightened stability in ultrapure water as compared to various water sources, including pure water‐1, pure water‐2, mineral water, and running water. Notably, the presence of Fe2+ displayed an inhibitory effect on the racemization of DMY, whereas Mg2+, Ca2+, and Mn2+ showed a substantial promotional effect. Additionally, acidic conditions (pH < 5.0) were found to be protective for maintaining the stability of DMY, whereas alkaline conditions (pH > 9.0) were observed to be detrimental. Meanwhile, we first identified the presence of another pair of DMY isomers in this work.
Exercise rejuvenates microglia and reverses T cell accumulation in the aged female mouse brain
Authors: Chauquet Solal , Willis Emily F. , Grice Laura , Harley Samuel B. R. , Powell Joseph E. , Wray Naomi R. , Nguyen Quan , Ruitenberg Marc J. , Shah Sonia , Vukovic Jana
Published: May 2024

Slowing and/or reversing brain ageing may alleviate cognitive impairments. Previous studies have found that exercise may mitigate cognitive decline, but the mechanisms underlying this remain largely unclear. Here we provide unbiased analyses of single‐cell RNA sequencing data, showing the impacts of exercise and ageing on specific cell types in the mouse hippocampus. We demonstrate that exercise has a profound and selective effect on aged microglia, reverting their gene expression signature to that of young microglia. Pharmacologic depletion of microglia further demonstrated that these cells are required for the stimulatory effects of exercise on hippocampal neurogenesis but not cognition. Strikingly, allowing 18‐month‐old mice access to a running wheel did by and large also prevent and/or revert T cell presence in the ageing hippocampus. Taken together, our data highlight the profound impact of exercise in rejuvenating aged microglia, associated pro‐neurogenic effects and on peripheral immune cell presence in the ageing female mouse brain.
A systematic review of minimally invasive cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in patients with peritoneal malignancy
Authors: Cohen Lauren , Alam Faizah , Flood Michael P. , Mohan Helen , Jain Anshini , Guerra Glen , Heriot Alexander G. , Kong Joseph C. H.
Published: May 2024

Background

Cytoreductive surgery (CRS) and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy (HIPEC) is traditionally a maximally invasive operation with a large abdominal incision and multi‐visceral resections. However, to minimize abdominal wall morbidity and improve functional recovery, some centres have adopted a minimally invasive (MI) approach in select cases. The primary aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to assess the evidence for safety and patient selection for minimally invasive approaches to CRS and HIPEC with curative intent.

Methods

A PRISMA‐compliant systematic review was performed using three electronic databases: Ovid MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science. Data regarding postoperative morbidity was meta‐analysed.

Results

Thirteen studies met the inclusion criteria (N = 462 MI patients), all of which were retrospective in design. Six studies included an open comparison group. Pseudomyxoma peritonei, mesothelioma and ovarian carcinoma made up the majority of cases (>90%), with a PCI < 10 listed as a prerequisite to selection across all studies. On pooled analysis there was no difference in major morbidity between MI and open groups (OR 0.52 95% CI 0.18–1.46, P = 0.33). There was one perioperative death reported in the MI group. Length of stay appeared shorter in the MI group (median range MI: 4–11 v Open: 7–13 days). Short‐term recurrence and overall survival between both groups also appeared no different.

Conclusion

Minimally invasive CRS and HIPEC appears feasible and safe in appropriately selected patients. Clear histological stratification and longer term follow up is required to determine oncological safety, particularly in more aggressive tumours such as colorectal peritoneal metastases.
Altered skeletal muscle function and beneficial effects of exercise training in a rat model of induced pulmonary emphysema
Authors: Passerieux Emilie , Desplanche Elodie , Alburquerque Laurie , Wynands Quentin , Bellanger Axel , Virsolvy Anne , Gouzi Farés , Cazorla Olivier , Bourdin Arnaud , Hayot Maurice , Pomiès Pascal
Published: May 2024

Aim

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is characterized by progressive airflow obstruction and development of emphysema. Among the comorbidities associated with COPD, skeletal muscle dysfunction is known to affect exercise capacity and the survival rate of patients. Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR), via exercise training, is essential for COPD patients. However, the response to PR is most often moderate. An animal model that recapitulates critical features of chronic human disease and provides access to muscle function should therefore be useful to improve PR benefits.

Methods

We used a rat model of induced emphysema based on pulmonary instillations of elastase (ELA) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS). We assessed the long‐term effects of ELA/LPS and the potential effectiveness of endurance training on the skeletal muscle function. In vivo strength of the animals, and ex vivo contractility, endurance, type 1 fiber proportion, fiber cross‐sectional area, and capillarization of both soleus and extensor digitorum longus (EDL) were assessed.

Results

An impaired overall muscle strength with decreased force, reduced capillarization, and atrophy of type 1 fiber of EDL was observed in ELA/LPS rats. Soleus was not affected. Endurance training was able to reduce fatigability, and increase type 1 fiber proportion and capillarization of soleus, and improve force, endurance, and capillarization of EDL in control and ELA/LPS rats.

Conclusion

Our rat model of induced emphysema, which shares some features with the phenotype present in patients with COPD, could represent a suitable model to study skeletal muscle dysfunction and the effects of exercise training on muscle function in patients.
Obesity, liver steatosis and metabolic syndrome: The hidden enemies in transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia
Authors: Padeniya Padmapani , Premawardhena Anuja
Published: May 2024

In their paper, the authors quantified liver iron concentration (LIC) and hepatic steatosis (HS) using MRI‐T2* technology in transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia (TDT) patients and healthy controls and found that the prevalence of HS among patients with TDT was 36.4%. In comparison with healthy controls, the hepatic fat fraction (FF) was significantly higher in the TDT population (p = 0.013). Active hepatitis C virus infection, body mass index (BMI) and LIC were independent predictors of HS. An inverse correlation between hepatic FF and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (p = 0.042) and a significant association of high glycaemia level (p = 0.037) with higher hepatic FF and a significant relationship (p = 0.026) between HS and higher BMI (though in a ‘lean’ group of patients) in TDT patients indicated that ‘metabolic syndrome’ was present in this subset with TDT. The impact of metabolic syndrome on TDT, including cardiac disease unrelated to iron overload, needs further study.

Commentary on: Ricchi et al. Liver steatosis in patients with transfusion‐dependent thalassaemia. Br J Haematol 2024;204:2458–2467.
Identification of seven variants in the col4a1 gene that alter RNA splicing by minigene assay
Authors: Wang Zhi , Sun Yan , Zhang Yiyin , Zhang Yan , Zhang Ran , Li Changying , Liu Xuyan , Pan Fengjiao , Qiao Dan , Shi Xiaomeng , Zhang Bingying , Xu Ning , Bottillo Irene , Shao Leping
Published: May 2024

Type IV collagen is an integral component of basement membranes. Mutations in COL4A1, one of the key genes encoding Type IV collagen, can result in a variety of diseases. It is clear that a significant proportion of mutations that affect splicing can cause disease directly or contribute to the susceptibility or severity of disease. Here, we analyzed exonic mutations and intronic mutations described in the COL4A1 gene using bioinformatics programs and identified candidate mutations that may alter the normal splicing pattern through a minigene system. We identified seven variants that induce splicing alterations by disrupting normal splice sites, creating new ones, or altering splice regulatory elements. These mutations are predicted to impact protein function. Our results help in the correct molecular characterization of variants in COL4A1 and may help develop more personalized treatment options.
Neural Denoising for Deep‐Z Monte Carlo Renderings
Authors: Zhang Xianyao , Röthlin Gerhard , Zhu Shilin , Aydın Tunç Ozan , Salehi Farnood , Gross Markus , Papas Marios
Published: May 2024

We present a kernel‐predicting neural denoising method for path‐traced deep‐Z images that facilitates their usage in animation and visual effects production. Deep‐Z images provide enhanced flexibility during compositing as they contain color, opacity, and other rendered data at multiple depth‐resolved bins within each pixel. However, they are subject to noise, and rendering until convergence is prohibitively expensive. The current state of the art in deep‐Z denoising yields objectionable artifacts, and current neural denoising methods are incapable of handling the variable number of depth bins in deep‐Z images. Our method extends kernel‐predicting convolutional neural networks to address the challenges stemming from denoising deep‐Z images. We propose a hybrid reconstruction architecture that combines the depth‐resolved reconstruction at each bin with the flattened reconstruction at the pixel level. Moreover, we propose depth‐aware neighbor indexing of the depth‐resolved inputs to the convolution and denoising kernel application operators, which reduces artifacts caused by depth misalignment present in deep‐Z images. We evaluate our method on a production‐quality deep‐Z dataset, demonstrating significant improvements in denoising quality and performance compared to the current state‐of‐the‐art deep‐Z denoiser. By addressing the significant challenge of the cost associated with rendering path‐traced deep‐Z images, we believe that our approach will pave the way for broader adoption of deep‐Z workflows in future productions.
A Hierarchical Architecture for Neural Materials
Authors: Xue Bowen , Zhao Shuang , Jensen Henrik Wann , Montazeri Zahra
Published: May 2024

Neural reflectance models are capable of reproducing the spatially‐varying appearance of many real‐world materials at different scales. Unfortunately, existing techniques such as NeuMIP have difficulties handling materials with strong shadowing effects or detailed specular highlights. In this paper, we introduce a neural appearance model that offers a new level of accuracy. Central to our model is an inception‐based core network structure that captures material appearances at multiple scales using parallel‐operating kernels and ensures multi‐stage features through specialized convolution layers. Furthermore, we encode the inputs into frequency space, introduce a gradient‐based loss, and employ it adaptive to the progress of the learning phase. We demonstrate the effectiveness of our method using a variety of synthetic and real examples.
Pure tone audiogram classification using deep learning techniques
Authors: Dou Zhiyong , Li Yingqiang , Deng Dongzhou , Zhang Yunxue , Pang Anran , Fang Cong , Bai Xiang , Bing Dan
Published: May 2024

Objective

Pure tone audiometry has played a critical role in audiology as the initial diagnostic tool, offering vital insights for subsequent analyses. This study aims to develop a robust deep learning framework capable of accurately classifying audiograms across various commonly encountered tasks.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This single‐centre retrospective study was conducted in accordance with the STROBE guidelines. A total of 12 518 audiograms were collected from 6259 patients aged between 4 and 96 years, who underwent pure tone audiometry testing between February 2018 and April 2022 at Tongji Hospital, Tongji Medical College, Wuhan, China. Three experienced audiologists independently annotated the audiograms, labelling the hearing loss in degrees, types and configurations of each audiogram.

Main Outcome Measures

A deep learning framework was developed and utilised to classify audiograms across three tasks: determining the degrees of hearing loss, identifying the types of hearing loss, and categorising the configurations of audiograms. The classification performance was evaluated using four commonly used metrics: accuracy, precision, recall and F1‐score.

Results

The deep learning method consistently outperformed alternative methods, including K‐Nearest Neighbors, ExtraTrees, Random Forest, XGBoost, LightGBM, CatBoost and FastAI Net, across all three tasks. It achieved the highest accuracy rates, ranging from 96.75% to 99.85%. Precision values fell within the range of 88.93% to 98.41%, while recall values spanned from 89.25% to 98.38%. The F1‐score also exhibited strong performance, ranging from 88.99% to 98.39%.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that a deep learning approach could accurately classify audiograms into their respective categories and could contribute to assisting doctors, particularly those lacking audiology expertise or experience, in better interpreting pure tone audiograms, enhancing diagnostic accuracy in primary care settings, and reducing the misdiagnosis rate of hearing conditions. In scenarios involving large‐scale audiological data, the automated classification system could be used as a research tool to efficiently provide a comprehensive overview and statistical analysis. In the era of mobile audiometry, our deep learning framework can also help patients quickly and reliably understand their self‐tested audiograms, potentially encouraging timely consultations with audiologists for further evaluation and intervention.