bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Marketing micro-credentials: understanding learners' engagement and willingness to pay more
Authors: Tee Poh Kiong , Cham Tat-Huei , Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Khudaykulov Adham , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Digitalisation is reshaping the learning process, shifting it towards personalisation and online learning, and fuelling the growth of massive open online courses (MOOCs) and micro-credentials. Despite being a popular global trend, limited studies have looked at micro-credentials and their impact on learners' behavioural outcomes. The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of programme design factors on learning experience, as well as the inter-relationships between programme design, learning experience and behavioural responses (e.g. engagement and willingness to pay more (WTPM)) towards micro-credentials. In addition, the study aims to investigate learning enjoyment as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey questionnaire was used to collect data from 354 respondents who are working adults living in the major economic states in Malaysia. Data analysis was performed using the analysis of a moment structures (AMOS) statistical software and SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) PROCESS macro.

Findings

The results show the significance of programme design factors (i.e., flexibility, system quality and content quality) in determining the learning experience. The learning experience is found as a mediator in the relationship between programme design factors and learner engagement and WTPM. In addition, the moderation assessment confirms that enjoyment during learning strengthens the relationship between experience and behavioural responses.

Originality/value

This study is amongst a few selected studies that focus on engagement in and WTPM for micro-credentials. In addition, it emphasises the mediating role of the learning experience and the moderating role of enjoyment in understanding the impact of programme design on learners' experiences and behavioural responses.
Social mediametrics: the mention laws and patterns of scientific literature
Authors: Zhao Rongying , Zhu Weijie , Huang He , Chen Wenxin
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Social mediametrics is a subfield of measurement in which the emphasis is placed on social media data. This paper analyzes the trends and patterns of paper comprehensively mentions on Twitter, with a particular focus on Twitter's mention behaviors. It uncovers the dissemination patterns and impact of academic literature on social media. The research has significant theoretical and practical implications.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores the fundamental attributes of Twitter mentions by means of analyzing 9,476 pieces of scholarly literature (5,097 from Nature and 4,379 from Science), 1,474,898 tweets and 451,567 user information collected from Altmetric.com database and Twitter API. The study uncovers assorted Twitter mention characteristics, mention behavior patterns and data accumulation patterns.

Findings

The findings illustrate that the top academic journals on Twitter have a wider range of coverage and display similar distribution patterns to other academic communication platforms. A large number of mentioners remain unidentified, and the distribution of follower counts among the mention users exhibits a significant Pareto effect, indicating a small group of highly influential users who generate numerous mentions. Furthermore, the proportion of sharing and exchange mentions positively correlates with the number of user followers, while the incidence of supportive mentions has a negative correlation. In terms of country-specific mention behavior, Thai scholars tend to utilize supportive mentions more frequently, whereas Korean scholars prefer sharing mentions over communicating mentions. The cumulative pattern of Twitter mentions suggests that these occur before official publication, with a half-life of 6.02 days and a considerable reduction in the number of mentions is observed on the seventh day after publication.

Originality/value

Conducting a multi-dimensional and systematic analysis of Twitter mentions of scholarly articles can aid in comprehending and utilizing social media communication patterns. This analysis can uncover literature's distribution patterns, dissemination effects and social significance in social media.
Characteristics of beech mixed forest distributed at low elevations on Mt. Toishi, northern Kyushu, in the upper warm‐temperate zone of Japan
Authors: Funato Yosuke , Itabashi Koji , Kanetani Seiichi , Sakuta Kotaro
Published: October 2023

The aim of this study was to clarify the structure and regeneration status of mixed beech (Fagus crenata) forest on Mt. Toishi in the Sangun mountain range in northern Kyushu, a relatively low‐latitude region in Japan, with emphasis on forests at lower elevations. We focused on a mixed beech forest at a low elevation of Mt. Toishi and compared the forest structure of the target stands, including tree species and size, with the forest structure near the peaks of Mt. Toishi and Mt. Sangun. Deciduous broad‐leaf trees were dominant near the peaks, while evergreen broad‐leaf trees dominated at lower elevations, whereas the relative dominance of beech trees was not significantly different. Near the peaks, the number of large‐diameter beech trees forming the canopy decreased, and small‐diameter trees were present. The proportion of small‐sized trees was lower in the low‐elevation forest area than in the forest area near the peak. Even at lower elevations, juvenile beech trees grew in limited areas on steep slopes along forest roads. These sites suggested that regeneration of beech populations is possible even at low elevation.
3D superimposition of human dentition contours in personal identification: A preliminary study
Authors: Yu Jiannan , Wang Menglin , Zhou Yu , Jin Xiang , Wang Feng , Sun Jinlong , Hao Wenjun , Yuan Li , Li Yanfeng
Published: October 2023

The human permanent dentition has been commonly used for personal identification due to its uniqueness. Limited research, however, is conducted using 3D digital dental models. We propose to develop a new 3D superimposition method using the contours of human dentition and to further evaluate its feasibility. A total of 270 intraoral scan models were collected from 135 subjects. After a one‐year interval, 52 subjects were chosen at random and the secondary intraoral scan models were obtained. The dentition contours of the first and secondary models were extracted to form a resource dataset and a test dataset. Through the application of the iterative nearest point (ICP) algorithm, the test dataset was registered with the resource dataset, and the root mean square error (RMSE) values of the point‐to‐point distances were calculated. 104 genuine pairs and 13,936 imposter pairs were generated, and in this study, the registration accuracy was 100%. The difference between mean RMSE values for the genuine pair (0.20 ± 0.06 mm) and the minimum RMSE value for the imposter pair (0.83 ± 0.06 mm) was significant in the maxillary arch (p < 0.05). Similarly, in the mandibular arch, the difference between mean RMSE values for the genuine pair (0.22 ± 0.07 mm) and the minimum RMSE value for the imposter pair (0.85 ± 0.08 mm) was significant (p < 0.05). The difference between the RMSE value for the genuine pair in the maxillary and the mandibular arch was significant (p < 0.05). This study indicated the feasibility of dentition contour‐based model superimposition and could be considered for personal identification in the future.
Three‐dimensional lung reconstructions for the localization of lung nodules to be resected during surgery
Authors: Natale Giovanni , Leonardi Beatrice , Messina Gaetana , Bergameo Grazia , Di Filippo Vincenzo , Chisari Giulia , Raciti Gabriele , Lombardo Sofia Paola , Mirra Rosa , Capasso Francesca , Leone Francesco , Pica Davide Gerardo , Fiorelli Alfonso
Published: October 2023

Background

The localization of lung nodules is challenging during thoracoscopy. In this study, we evaluated the use of three‐dimensional (3D) lung reconstruction for use in the operating room to guide the identification of lung nodules during thoracoscopy.

Methods

This was a single‐center retrospective study. All consecutive patients undergoing thoracoscopic resection of lung nodules were included in the study. Patients were retrospectively divided into two groups based upon whether the thoracoscopic resection was performed with the assistance (3D group) or not (standard group) of 3D lung reconstruction. The operative time (minutes) to detect lung nodules was statistically compared between the two study groups in relation to the characteristics of lung nodules as size, localization, and distance from the visceral pleura.

Results

Our study population consisted of 170 patients: 85 in the 3D group and 85 in the standard group. No intergroup difference differences were found regarding the characteristics and histological diagnosis of lesions. The standard group compared to the 3D group was associated with a significantly longer operative time for the detection of lesions <10 mm (13.87 ± 2.59 vs. 5.52 ± 1.01, p < 0.001), lesions between 10 and 20 mm (5.05 ± 0.84 vs. 3.89 ± 0.92; p = 0.03), lesions localized in complex segments (7.49 ± 4.25 vs. 5.11 ± 0.97; p < 0.001), and deep lesions (9.58 ± 4.82 vs. 5.4 ± 1.01, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Our 3D lung reconstruction model for use in the operating room may be an additional tool for thoracic surgeons to guide the detection of small and deep nodules during thoracoscopy. It is a noninvasive and cost saving procedure and may be widely used.
Trust, distrust, and open‐book accounting in three client‐vendor relationships
Authors: Agndal Henrik , Nilsson Ulf
Published: October 2023

Extant management accounting research has conceptualized the interplay between trust, distrust, and open‐book accounting (OBA) as a relationship‐level phenomenon, largely ignoring that inter‐organizational relationships are often complex entities that comprise multiple arenas of exchange where (dis)trust and OBA can interact in different—and potentially contradictory—ways. To address this theoretical oversight, we draw on relational exchange theory to propose that (dis)trust largely forms within OBA domains where different forms of data are exchanged for different purposes. Trust and distrust may thereby coexist within a relationship. We also propose that (dis)trust spills over to influence the conditions for OBA in other domains. Consequently, trust and distrust not only take shape in cumulative processes within OBA domains but also diffuse between domains in a relationship. Empirical observations from a longitudinal case study of a retail buyer's attempts to introduce OBA in three vendor relationships lead us to suggest that competence‐trust spillover is determined largely by domain similarity, while goodwill‐trust spillover relies to a greater extent on staff mobility between OBA domains. Overall, the negative effects of distrust spillover on the implementation of OBA appear greater than the positive effects of trust spillover. Our study shows that, by analyzing the domain‐specific nature of trust and distrust, future research can increase our understanding of the relationship between data characteristics and (dis)trust, as well as explain how trust and distrust interact to determine conditions for data exchange between organizations.
Association between torquetenovirus in vaginal secretions and infertility: An exploratory metagenomic analysis
Authors: Da Costa A. Charlys , Bortoletto Pietro , Spandorfer Steven D. , Tozetto‐Mendoza Tania Regina , Linhares Iara M. , Mendes‐Correa Maria Cassia , Witkin Steven S.
Published: October 2023

Problem

The association of viruses with infertility remains incompletely evaluated.

Method of study

Vaginal secretions from 46 women seeking treatment in the Center for Reproductive Medicine and Infertility at Weill Cornell Medicine were tested for viruses by metagenomic analysis by lab personnel blinded to all clinical data.

Results

Torquetenovirus (TTV) was identified in 16 women, alphapapillomavirus in seven women and most were positive for bacteriophages. Twelve of the subjects were fertile and sought to freeze their oocytes for future implantation. These women were all negative for TTV. In contrast, 16 of the 34 women (47.1%) being treated for infertility were TTV‐positive (p = .0035). Evaluating the women by cause of infertility, five of nine women (55.6%) whose male partner had inadequate sperm parameters and six of 14 women (42.9%) with defective ovulation were TTV positive (p = .0062 and p = .0171, respectively, vs. the fertile women). Alphapapillomavirus was identified in one (8.3%) fertile woman, five (35.7%) women with ovulation deficiency, and one (11.1%) woman with male factor infertility. These differences were not statistically significant. There were no differences in bacteriophage families or the presence of Lactobacillus phages between fertile or infertile women or between different causes of infertility. There was a negative association between TTV detection and Lactobacillus crispatus dominance in the vaginal microbiota (p = .0184), but no association between TTV detection and the presence of alphapapillomavirus or Candida species.

Conclusion

Detection of TTV in the vagina might be a biomarker for specific causes of infertility.
Vitamin D deficiency associated with neurodevelopmental problems in 2‐year‐old Japanese boys
Authors: Yasumitsu‐Lovell Kahoko , Thompson Lucy , Fernell Elisabeth , Eitoku Masamitsu , Suganuma Narufurmi , Gillberg Christopher ,   the Japan Environment and Children's Study Group
Published: October 2023

Aim

While associations between vitamin D deficiency and neurodevelopmental disorders have been found, large studies on child vitamin D, neurodevelopment, and sex differences among the general population are lacking. This study aimed to investigate the association between child serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D)) levels and neurodevelopmental problems (NDPs).

Methods

Serum 25(OH)D and NDPs were measured at age two among the subcohort study of the Japan Environment and Children's Study. NDPs were assessed with the Kyoto Scale of Psychological Development 2001 (Kyoto scale). Adjusted odds ratios (aORs) for the Kyoto‐scale developmental quotient scores <70 were calculated, for postural–motor, cognitive–adaptive, and language–social domains and overall scores, adjusted for test month, latitude, small for gestational age, maternal age, and daycare attendance.

Results

Among 2363 boys and 2290 girls, boys had higher 25(OH)D levels, but scored lower in the Kyoto scale. For boys in the vitamin D deficiency (<20 ng/mL) group, aORs of scoring the Kyoto‐scale DQs <70 were 2.33 (p = 0.006) for overall DQs, 1.91 (p = 0.037) for cognitive–adaptive, and 1.69 (p = 0.024) for language–social domains. For girls, results were inconclusive.

Conclusion

Only boys showed a clear and cross‐modal association between vitamin D deficiency and NDPs.
Non‐tariff measures along global value chains: evidence from ASEAN countries
Authors: Eum Jihyun
Published: October 2023

This paper analyzes the effects of Non‐Tariff Measures (NTMs) on exports while considering the degree of participation in the global value chains (GVCs). Standard‐like non‐tariff measures, such as Sanitary and Phytosanitary Standards (SPS) and Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), have influenced trade by increasing trade costs or improving consumers' awareness. Theoretically, NTMs can have either positive or negative effects on trade flows. In this study the characteristics of the production process are considered in order to disentangle the arguments of ‘standards as barriers’ and ‘standards as catalyst’. Due to the expansion of GVCs, NTMs have accumulated along production processes. Cumulative NTMs along the GVCs affect not only the direct trade sector and its partners, but also other relevant sectors and countries indirectly through the production chains. We use panel data on product‐level ASEAN exports for 2007–2019 to estimate the effects of NTMs depending on GVC participation. The estimated results show that the impact of SPS and TBT is heterogeneous according to the degree of GVC participation. While SPS and TBT regulations have been found to promote trade, their positive effects are less significant for industries involved in forward and upstream GVC participation. This reflects the characteristics of these sectors, which require higher levels of technology and skilled labour compared to backward GVC participation and downstream sectors. As a result, ASEAN exporters heavily involved in forward and upstream GVCs face increased production costs to comply with the requirements of the standard‐like NTMs. The increased production costs limit the trade‐promoting effects of the standard‐like NTMs.
How well do collaboration quality estimation models generalize across authentic school contexts?
Authors: Chejara Pankaj , Kasepalu Reet , Prieto Luis P. , Rodríguez‐Triana María Jesús , Ruiz Calleja Adolfo , Schneider Bertrand
Published: October 2023

Multimodal learning analytics (MMLA) research has made significant progress in modelling collaboration quality for the purpose of understanding collaboration behaviour and building automated collaboration estimation models. Deploying these automated models in authentic classroom scenarios, however, remains a challenge. This paper presents findings from an evaluation of collaboration quality estimation models. We collected audio, video and log data from two different Estonian schools. These data were used in different combinations to build collaboration estimation models and then assessed across different subjects, different types of activities (collaborative‐writing, group‐discussion) and different schools. Our results suggest that the automated collaboration model can generalize to the context of different schools but with a 25% degradation in balanced accuracy (from 82% to 57%). Moreover, the results also indicate that multimodality brings more performance improvement in the case of group‐discussion‐based activities than collaborative‐writing‐based activities. Further, our results suggest that the video data could be an alternative for understanding collaboration in authentic settings where higher‐quality audio data cannot be collected due to contextual factors. The findings have implications for building automated collaboration estimation systems to assist teachers with monitoring their collaborative classrooms.

Practitioners notes

What is already known about this topic

Multimodal learning analytics researchers have established several features as potential indicators for collaboration quality, e.g., speaking time or joint visual attention.

The current state of the art has shown the feasibility of building automated collaboration quality models.

Recent research has provided preliminary evidence of the generalizability of developed automated models across contexts different in terms of given task and subject.

What does this paper add

This paper offers collaboration indicators for different types of collaborative learning activities in authentic classroom settings.

The paper includes a systematic investigation into collaboration quality automated model's generalizability across different tasks, types of tasks and schools.

This paper also offers a comparison between different modalities' potential to estimate collaboration quality in authentic settings.

Implications for practice

The findings inform the development of automated collaboration monitoring systems for authentic classroom settings.

This paper provides evidence on across‐school generalizability capabilities of collaboration quality estimation models.
Formation and clearance of TNF–TNF inhibitor complexes during TNF inhibitor treatment
Authors: Berkhout Lea Catharina , I'Ami Merel Jeanne , Kruithof Simone , Vogelzang Erik Hans , Hooijberg Femke , Hart Margaretha Hendrika Louise , Bentlage Arthur Ebel Herman , Thomas Debby , Vermeire Severine , Vidarsson Gestur , ten Brinke Anja , Nurmohamed Michael Twahier , Wolbink Gerrit Jan , Rispens Theo
Published: October 2023

Background and Purpose

Millions of patients with inflammatory diseases are treated with tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors (TNFi). Individual treatment response varies, in part related to variable drug clearance. The role of TNF–TNFi complexes in clearance of the different TNFi is controversial. Moreover, mechanistic insight into the structural aspects and biological significance of TNF–TNFi complexes is lacking. We hypothesized a role for Fc‐mediated clearance of TNF–TNFi immune complexes. Therefore, we investigated circulating TNF–TNFi complexes upon treatment with certolizumab—lacking Fc tails—in comparison with adalimumab, golimumab, infliximab and etanercept.

Experimental Approach

Drug‐tolerant ELISAs were developed and used to quantify TNF during adalimumab, golimumab, etanercept, certolizumab and infliximab treatment in patients with inflammatory arthritis or ulcerative colitis for a maximum follow‐up of 1 year. Effects on in vitro TNF production and Fc‐mediated uptake of TNF–TNFi complexes were investigated for all five TNFi.

Key Results

Circulating TNF concentrations were >20‐fold higher during certolizumab treatment compared with adalimumab, reaching up to 23.1 ng·ml−1. Internalization of TNF–TNFi complexes by macrophages depended on Fc valency, with efficient uptake for the full antibody TNFi (three Fc tails), but little or no uptake for etanercept and certolizumab (one and zero Fc tail, respectively). TNF production was not affected by TNFi. Total TNF load did not affect clearance rate of total TNFi.

Conclusions and Implications

Differences in TNFi structure profoundly affect clearance of TNF, while it is unlikely that TNF itself significantly contributes to target‐mediated drug disposition of TNFi.
Walking outcomes in cerebral palsy: What is the GOAL?
Authors: Narayanan Unni
Published: October 2023

This commentary is on the original articles by Stout et al. and Munger et al. on pages 61–69 and 70–81 of this issue.
Addressing gaps and stigma appropriately in fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Andrew Gail
Published: October 2023

This commentary is on the scoping review by Wilson et al. on pages 702–712 of this issue.
Omega‐3 fatty acids and endothelial function: A GRADE‐assessed systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Arabi Seyyed Mostafa , Bahari Hossein , Chambari Mahla , Bahrami Leila Sadat , Mohaildeen Gubari Mohammaed Ibrahim , Watts Gerald F. , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: October 2023

Introduction

N‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) supplementation has been reported to have an impact on flow‐mediated dilatation (FMD), a conventionally used clinical technique for estimating endothelial dysfunction. However, its proven effects on endothelial function are unclear. This systematic review and meta‐analysis were conducted to evaluate the effects of n‐3 PUFAs supplementation on FMD of the brachial artery.

Method

This study was performed following the PRISMA guidelines. To identify eligible RCTs, a systematic search was completed in PubMed/Medline, Scopus and Web of Science using relevant keywords. A fixed‐ or random‐effects model was utilized to estimate the weighted mean difference (WMD) and 95% confidence interval (95% CI).

Results

Thirty‐two studies (with 35 arms) were included in this meta‐analysis, involving 2385 subjects with intervention duration ranging from 4 to 48 weeks. The pooled meta‐analysis demonstrated a significant effect of omega‐3 on FMD (WMD = 0.8%, 95% CI = 0.3–1.3, p = .001) and heterogeneity was significant (I2 = 82.5%, p < .001).

Conclusion

We found that n‐3 PUFA supplementation improves endothelial function as estimated by flow‐mediated dilatation of the brachial artery.
Post‐stroke immunosuppression: Exploring potential implications beyond infections
Authors: Brea David
Published: October 2023

Stroke is a leading cause of mortality and disability. It occurs when cerebral blood flow is disrupted via vascular occlusion or rupture, causing tissue damage. Research has extensively examined the role of the immune response in stroke pathophysiology, focusing on infiltrated immune cells and inflammatory molecules. However, the stroke's impact on immune physiology remains underexplored. While initially stroke triggers the activation of peripheral inflammation, a subsequent profound immunosuppression occurs in a matter of hours/days. This response, potentially shielding the brain from excessive inflammation, significantly affects stroke patients. Beyond rendering patients more susceptible to infections, immunosuppression generates diverse consequences by disrupting immune system functions that are crucial for organ homeostasis. This review explores the effects of immunosuppression on stroke patients, shedding light on potential issues in immune organs such as the spleen and bone marrow, as well as non‐immune organs like the small intestine, liver and heart. By synthesizing existing literature and offering additional insights, this manuscript highlights the multifaceted impact of post‐stroke immunosuppression.
Disrupted topologic efficiency of brain functional connectome in de novo Parkinson's disease with depression
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhan Xiaoyan , Xu Jianxia , Yu Miao , Guo Zhiying , Zhou Gaiyan , Ren Jingru , Zhang Ronggui , Liu Weiguo
Published: October 2023

Growing evidence supports that depression in Parkinson's disease (PD) depends on disruptions in specific neural networks rather than regional dysfunction. According to the resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging data, the study attempted to decipher the alterations in the topological properties of brain networks in de novo depression in PD (DPD). The study also explored the neural network basis for depressive symptoms in PD. We recruited 20 DPD, 37 non‐depressed PD and 41 healthy controls (HC). The Graph theory and network‐based statistical methods helped analyse the topological properties of brain functional networks and anomalous subnetworks across these groups. The relationship between altered properties and depression severity was also investigated. DPD revealed significantly reduced nodal efficiency in the left superior temporal gyrus. Additionally, DPD decreased five hubs, primarily located in the temporal‐occipital cortex, and increased seven hubs, mainly distributed in the limbic cortico‐basal ganglia circuit. The betweenness centrality of the left Medio Ventral Occipital Cortex was positively associated with depressive scores in DPD. In contrast to HC, DPD had a multi‐connected subnetwork with significantly lower connectivity, primarily distributed in the visual, somatomotor, dorsal attention and default networks. Regional topological disruptions in the temporal‐occipital region are critical in the DPD neurological mechanism. It might suggest a potential network biomarker among newly diagnosed DPD patients.
Cover crop identity determines root fungal community and arbuscular mycorrhiza colonization in following main crops
Authors: García‐González Irene , Martínez‐García Laura B. , Barel Janna M. , Martens Henk , Snoek L. Basten , Hontoria Chiquinquirá , De Deyn Gerlinde B.
Published: October 2023

Cover crops (CC) can promote nutrient retention and recycling for main crops yet may also promote soilborne pathogens or suppress beneficial root symbionts such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). We investigated how root fungal communities of main crop are affected by preceding CC monocultures and mixtures and by main crop identity. We expected that AMF abundance and diversity in main crops are promoted by AM‐host CC, and suppressed by non‐AM‐host CC, and that mixtures of CC species can promote beneficial and suppress pathogenic root fungi. Our full‐factorial field experiment comprised crop rotation in sand soil with different CC treatments (monocultures of radish [AM non‐host], ryegrass, clover, vetch [AM hosts], mixtures of radish + vetch, ryegrass + clover and fallow) and two main crops (oat and endive). At peak crop growth, we investigated the root fungal communities in the main crops using microscopy and high throughput sequencing (Illumina MiSeq). Cover crop identity was of prime importance and CC legacy overruled main crop identity in determining root fungal communities in main crops. Compared with fallow, CC with ryegrass increased AMF colonization and richness in both main crops and of non‐AMF in oat. Legacies of ryegrass, ryegrass + clover and vetch resulted in distinct root fungal communities in the main crops, while the legacy of CC with radish were similar to the legacy of fallow. Root fungal community in crops after clover had highest abundance of representative fungal pathogens in contrast with the other CC treatments that resulted in fungal communities where pathogens were scarce. Oppositely to expected, CC mixtures did not enhance fungal symbionts or suppressed pathogens. Overall, fungal communities in roots of the main crops in our field experiment were determined by the preceding CC species in monoculture, rather than by the CC AMF preference or functional group. This research highlights that the choice of CC determines the root fungal community in main crop which may influence crop quality.
Optimal pricing strategies and decision‐making systems in e‐commerce using integrated fuzzy multi‐criteria method
Authors: Shan Wenli
Published: October 2023

E‐commerce online stores are now virtual platforms for connecting with millions of potential clients worldwide in the age of digitization. The marketing teams develop digital marketing tactics to attract traffic to their e‐commerce sites and increase sales volume. With the vast amount of data provided by the cloud, decisions that were previously made with a significant level of intuition based on the knowledge and experience of decision‐makers can now be backed using artificial intelligence algorithms. To identify the variables influencing pricing decisions for products launched on e‐commerce shopping sites and to develop variable pricing techniques for each product found on an e‐commerce site. This paper introduces a novel approach that applies Fuzzy association rule mining (FARM) and Fuzzy TOPSIS MCDM methodology. A B2B e‐commerce marketing store based in Hong Kong has created and implemented Smart‐Quo, a pricing decision support system for B2B e‐commerce retail businesses. After a six‐month trial period, there has been a substantial advance in the effectiveness and efficiency of choosing prices for each product. The case study illustrates the viability and potential advantages of implementing artificial intelligence tools in marketing management in the digital era.
Epothilone B loaded in acellular nerve allograft enhanced sciatic nerve regeneration in rats
Authors: Omar Khudhur Zhikal , Ziyad Abdulqadir Shang , Faqiyazdin Ahmed Mzury Abdullah , Aziz Rasoul Abdulrahman , Wasman Smail Shukur , Ghayour Mohammad B. , Abdolmaleki Arash
Published: October 2023

Background

Epothilone B (EpoB) is a microtubule‐stabilizing agent with neuroprotective properties.

Objectives

This study examines the regenerative properties of ANA supplemented with EpoB on a sciatic nerve deficit in male Wistar rats.

Methods

For this purpose, the 10 mm nerve gap was filled with acellular nerve allografts (ANAs) containing EpoB at 0.1, 1, and 10 nM concentrations. The sensorimotor recovery was evaluated up to 16 weeks after the operation. Real‐time PCR, histomorphometry analysis, and electrophysiological evaluation were also used to evaluate the process of nerve regeneration.

Results

ANA/EpoB (0.1 nM) significantly improved sensorimotor recovery in rats compared to ANA, ANA/EpoB (1 nM), and ANA/EpoB (10 nM) groups. This led to reduced muscle atrophy, improved sciatic functional index, and thermal paw withdrawal reflex latency, indicating nerve regeneration and target organ reinnervation. The electrophysiological and histomorphometry findings also confirmed the ANA/EpoB regenerative properties (0.1 nM). EpoB only enhanced ANA regenerative properties at 0.1 nM, with no therapeutic effects at higher concentrations.

Conclusion

Totally, we concluded that ANA loaded with 0.1 nM EpoB can effectively reconstruct the transected sciatic nerve in rats, likely by enhancing axonal sprouting and extension.
An exploration of healthcare use in older people waiting for and receiving Australian community‐based aged care services
Authors: Edney Laura C. , Haji Ali Afzali Hossein , Visvanathan Renuka , Toson Barbara , Karnon Jonathan
Published: October 2023

Aim

Home care packages (HCPs) facilitate older individuals to remain at home, with longer HCP wait times associated with increased mortality risk. We analyze healthcare cost data pre‐ and post‐HCP access to inform hypotheses around the effects of healthcare use and mortality risk.

Methods

Regression models were used to assess the impact of delayed HCP access on healthcare costs and to compare costs whilst waiting and in the 6‐ and 12 month periods post‐HCP access for 16 629 older adults.

Results

Average wait time for a HCP was 89.7 days (SD = 125.6) during the study period. Wait‐time length had no impact on any healthcare cost category or time period. However, total per day healthcare costs were higher in the 6 and 12 months post‐receipt of a HCP (AU$61.5, AU$63, respectively) compared with those in the time waiting for a HCP (AU$48.1). Inpatient care accounted for a higher proportion of total healthcare costs post‐HCP (AU$45.1, AU$46.3, respectively) compared with in the wait time (AU$30.6), whilst spending on medical services and pharmaceuticals reduced slightly in the 6 month (AU$7.1, AU$6.3) and 12 month (AU$7.2, AU$6.3) post‐HCP periods compared with in the wait time (AU$7.9, AU$7.1).

Conclusions

Increased spending post‐HCP on inpatient care or non‐health support afforded by HCPs may offer protective effects for mortality and risk of admission to aged care. Further research should explore the association between delayed access to inpatient care for geriatric syndromes and mortality to inform recommendations on extensions to residential care outreach services into the community to improve the timely identification of the need for inpatient care. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 899–905.
Pleurotus geesteranus mycelium proteins: physicochemical and functional properties
Authors: Xv Wanting , Qiu Zijie , Zheng Qianwang , Ye Zhiwei , Wei Tao , Guo Liqiong , Lin Junfang , Zou Yuan
Published: October 2023

In the present work, the physicochemical and functional properties, as well as the digestion behaviour of Pleurotus geesteranus mycelium protein isolates (PMPI), were investigated. SDS‐PAGE results found that the molecular weight of PMPI was mainly concentrated in >100 kDa and <25 kDa and a total of 365 proteins were detected with proteome analysis. The contents of secondary structures in PMPI were as follows: β‐sheet (27.15%) > α‐helix (23.23%) > random coil (21.92%) > β‐turn (17.21%) > β‐antiparallel (10.48%). The total sulphydryl, free sulphydryl and disulphide bond content of PMPI were 29.88, 9.77 and 10.05 μmol/g respectively. The denaturation temperature of PMPI was measured at 92.94 °C, with an enthalpy change of 39.76 J/g. However, PMPI showed poor solubility, leading to relatively low foaming properties and emulsion activity. The nitrogen release rate of PMPI was 21.78% after pepsin digestion and 74.60% at the end of trypsin digestion.
Analysis of the flavour components, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity between rice wine from two raw rice and starters
Authors: Lin Yudan , Yang Huaxia , Jiang Liang , Zhang Yongjun , Li Jia , Zhu Xiaoxu
Published: October 2023

Different raw rice and starters will affect the quality of Chinese rice wine (CRW). This study focused on the quality (flavour components, total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity) between Hong Qu japonica rice wine and Wheat Qu glutinous rice wine. Free amino acids and volatile compounds were analysed respectively. Total phenolic content was compared using Folin–Ciocalteu methods and antioxidant activity using DPPH, ABTS+ and FRAP methods. The results indicated that total free amino acid content of CRW ranged from 0.959 ± 0.09 to 3.229 ± 0.24 g L−1. About 65 volatile compounds were obtained in wine samples, mainly including alcohols, esters, aldehydes, acids, phenols and ethers. Isopentanol, isobutanol, phenylethyl alcohol, ethyl lactate, diethyl succinate, benzaldehyde, furfural and 2,4‐ditert‐butylphenol were the prominent aroma components in samples. Total phenolic content in samples ranged from 0.27 ± 0.00 to 0.45 ± 0.01 mg GAE mL−1. Experimental samples showed different radical scavenging capacity and ferric‐reducing capacity. These results proved that japonica rice wine with Hong Qu had abundant flavour components and strongest antioxidant capacity, the brewing raw material can be better developed in the production of CRW.
A crystallisation protocol designed for the isolation of lycopene from tomato processing by‐products
Authors: Wu Nai‐Ying , Qiao Xuan‐Xuan , Gao Wei , Peng Jing‐Wei
Published: October 2023

The antioxidant and anticancer properties of lycopene make it an excellent ingredient for daily food supplements. The present study developed a novel protocol based on crystallisation to produce lycopene of high purity from a complex extract obtained by n‐hexane from tomato peel. The crystallisation process aimed to achieve a higher recovery and purity of lycopene. The crystallisation system was optimised using ethanol and n‐hexane at a volume ratio of 0.8:1 after evaporating the extract to a solid concentration of 66%. The recovery of lycopene reached 78.45% with a purity of 96.12%. The combination of the two crystallisation methods used, antisolvent and evaporation crystallisation, removed most impurities from the lycopene crystals. This novel protocol thus proved to be effective for recovering lycopene from tomato waste.
Structure‐guided discovery of aminopeptidase ERAP1 variants capable of processing antigens with novel PC anchor specificities
Authors: Pande Suchita , Guo Hwai‐Chen
Published: October 2023

Endoplasmic reticulum aminopeptidase 1 (ERAP1) belongs to the oxytocinase subfamily of M1 aminopeptidases (M1APs), which are a diverse family of metalloenzymes involved in a wide range of functions and have been implicated in various chronic and infectious diseases of humans. ERAP1 trims antigenic precursors into correct sizes (8–10 residues long) for Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) presentation, by a unique molecular ruler mechanism in which it makes concurrent bindings to substrate N‐ and C‐termini. We have previously determined four crystal structures of ERAP1 C‐terminal regulatory domain (termed ERAP1_C domain) in complex with peptide carboxyl (PC)‐ends that carry various anchor residues, and identified a specificity subsite for recognizing the PC anchor side chain, denoted as the SC subsite to follow the conventional notations: S1 site for P1, S2 site for P2, and so forth. In this study, we report studies on structure‐guided mutational and hydrolysis kinetics, and peptide trimming assays to further examine the functional roles of this SC subsite. Most strikingly, a point mutation V737R results in a change of substrate preference from a hydrophobic to a negatively charged PC anchor residue; the latter is presumed to be a poor substrate for WT ERAP1. These studies validate the crystallographic observations that this SC subsite is directly involved in binding and recognition of the substrate PC anchor and presents a potential target to modulate MHC‐restricted immunopeptidomes.
A Multivariate Study on Enzymatic Changes in Limb Muscles and Heart Muscle of Dystrophic Mice
Authors: Aoyagi T. , Wada T. , Kojima F. , Nagai M. , Harada S. , Umezawa H.
Published: October 2023

The present study was undertaken to elucidate further the enzymatic changes in dystrophic muscle using multivariate analysis. The activities of 14 kinds of enzymes, including 6 exopeptidases, 4 endopeptidases, beta‐N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosaminidase, phosphatase, esterase, and ribonuclease, were examined in forelimb and hindlimb muscles as well as in cardiac muscle of dystrophic mice and their controls. Two principal components identified from the enzymatic spectrum proved to be related especially to aminopeptidases and to serine proteinases, respectively. The enzymatic changes in forelimb muscle were very similar to those in hindlimb muscle when both were compared to those in cardiac muscle. The changes in aminopeptidases were unique to the limb muscles, whereas those of serine proteinases were unique to cardiac muscle of dystrophic mice. In the future, more attention should be focused on the role of exopeptidases in pathogenetic mechanisms of muscular dystrophy, because of the possibility that they play a major role in the initial stage of muscular dystrophy.
Transfer and Expression of Plasmids Containing Human Cytomegalovirus Immediate‐Early Gene 1 Promoter‐Enhancer Sequences in Eukaryotic and Prokaryotic Cells
Authors: Davis MG , Huang ES
Published: October 2023

The human cytomegalovirus immediate‐early gene region 1 promoter‐enhancer is active in bacteria and in many mammalian cells. Recombinant plasmids containing portions of this DNA can be used to promote the expression of foreign proteins in many cells. In this communication, we report the optimal conditions for transfer of plasmid DNA to cells by electroporation and the transient expression assays which document the activity of different promoter constructions. The observed activity of the human cytomegalovirus promoter is more than 100‐fold higher than the activity of the early promoter of SV40.
Acylphosphatase Increases the Rate of Ethanol Production from Glucose in Cell‐Free Extracts of Saccharomyces Cerevisiae
Authors: Ramponi G. , Liguri G. , Nediani C. , Stefani M. , Taddei N. , Nassi P.
Published: October 2023

Addition of acylphosphatase exerted a stimulating effect on the alcoholic fermentation of glucose by Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The rates of glucose degradation and ethanol production by cell‐free extracts of the S‐288C strain were measured in the absence and in the presence of various levels of this enzyme. Two acylphosphatase isoenzymes were used; one was purified from horse skeletal muscle and the other from human erythrocytes. Both increased the rate of alcoholic fermentation, but that from erythrocytes proved to be the more efficient. This stimulating action is probably due to an “uncoupling effect” of acylphosphatase on the fermentative process, through hydrolysis of 3‐phosphoglyceroyl phosphate. This was demonstrated by the fact that alcoholic fermentation was stimulated considerably by a mixture of ADP and inorganic phosphate and by arsenate as well. The possibility of improving the fermentative capacity of microorganisms may have important biotechnological applications.
Feedback analysis of the behavior of the renin‐angiotensin system under inhibition of angiotensin‐converting enzyme
Authors: Wada T. , Aoyagi T. , Iinuma H. , Ogawa K. , Kojima F. , Nagai M. , Kuroda H. , Obayashi A. , Takeuchi T.
Published: October 2023

It was previously shown that autoregressive modeling can be used for feedback analysis in the body. We used this method to investigate the dynamic changes in and around the renin‐angiotensin system in vivo induced by angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition. Long‐term studies were performed on rabbits, which were given a daily injection of one of the following ACE inhibitors: captopril, foroxymithine, or histargin. For comparison, other rabbits received injections of saline or the renin inhibitor pepstatin. Autoregressive coefficients were computed from the raw data thus observed and were used to simulate the impulse‐response function proper to each animal. The response of each animal estimated in this way exposed the effects of ACE inhibitors in vivo which were obscured by the feedback regulation of the renin‐angiotensin system. Also, it was suggested that histargin has a peculiar action, blocking the negative feedback that would be elicited by the usual ACE inhibition. Feedback analysis seems to be essential to elucidate the in vivo effects of enzyme inhibitors.
Sensitive Assay of Cysteine Proteinases Using new Peptide P‐Nitroanilides
Authors: Fukal L. , Kasafirek E.
Published: October 2023

N‐Succinyl‐glycyl‐leucyl‐cystein(S‐benzyl) p‐nitroanilide and N‐succinyl‐leucyl‐leucyl‐cystein(S‐benzyl) p‐nitroanilide were found to be very sensitive substrates for the assay of papain, ficin, and bromelain. These p‐nitroanilides were hydrolyzed only very slightly by chymotrypsin, but not detectably by trypsin.
Single‐use accessories and endoscopes in the era of sustainability and climate change—A balancing act
Authors: Nabi Zaheer , Tang Raymond S. Y. , Sundaram Sridhar , Lakhtakia Sundeep , Reddy D. Nageshwar
Published: October 2023

Gastrointestinal (GI) endoscopy is among the highest waste generator in healthcare facilities. The major reasons include production of large‐volume non‐renewable waste, use of single‐use devices, and reprocessing or decontamination processes. Single‐use endoscopic accessories have gradually replaced reusable devices over last two decades contributing to the rising impact of GI endoscopy on ecosystem. Several reports of infection outbreaks with reusable duodenoscopes raised concerns regarding the efficacy and adherence to standard disinfection protocols. Even the enhanced reprocessing techniques like double high‐level disinfection have not been found to be the perfect ways for decontamination of duodenoscopes and therefore, paved the way for the development of single‐use duodenoscopes. However, the use of single‐use endoscopes is likely to amplify the net waste generated and carbon footprint of any endoscopy unit. Moreover, single‐use devices challenge one of the major pillars of sustainability, that is, “reuse.” In the era of climate change, a balanced approach is required taking into consideration patient safety as well as financial and environmental implications. The possible solutions to provide optimum care while addressing the impact on climate include selective use of disposable duodenoscopes and careful selection of accessories during a case. Other options include use of disposable endcaps and development of effective high‐level disinfection techniques. The collaboration between the healthcare professionals and the manufacturers is paramount for the development of environmental friendly devices with low carbon footprint.
The m6A reader SiYTH1 enhances drought tolerance by affecting the messenger RNA stability of genes related to stomatal closure and reactive oxygen species scavenging in Setaria italica
Authors: Luo Weiwei , Tang Yuxiang , Li Shenglan , Zhang Linlin , Liu Yuwei , Zhang Renliang , Diao Xianmin , Yu Jingjuan
Published: October 2023

Foxtail millet (Setaria italica), a vital drought‐resistant crop, plays a significant role in ensuring food and nutritional security. However, its drought resistance mechanism is not fully understood. N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) modification of RNA, a prevalent epi‐transcriptomic modification in eukaryotes, provides a binding site for m6A readers and affects plant growth and stress responses by regulating RNA metabolism. In this study, we unveiled that the YT521‐B homology (YTH) family gene SiYTH1 positively regulated the drought tolerance of foxtail millet. Notably, the siyth1 mutant exhibited reduced stomatal closure and augmented accumulation of excessive H2O2 under drought stress. Further investigations demonstrated that SiYTH1 positively regulated the transcripts harboring m6A modification related to stomatal closure and reactive oxygen species (ROS) scavenging under drought stress. SiYTH1 was uniformly distributed in the cytoplasm of SiYTH1‐GFP transgenic foxtail millet. It formed dynamic liquid‐like SiYTH1 cytosol condensates in response to drought stress. Moreover, the cytoplasmic protein SiYTH1 was identified as a distinct m6A reader, facilitating the stabilization of its directly bound SiARDP and ROS scavenging‐related transcripts under drought stress. Furthermore, natural variation analysis revealed SiYTH1AGTG as the dominant allele responsible for drought tolerance in foxtail millet. Collectively, this study provides novel insights into the intricate mechanism of m6A reader‐mediated drought tolerance and presents a valuable genetic resource for improving drought tolerance in foxtail millet breeding.