bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of sectoral and aggregate uncertainty on corporate debt structure
Authors: Sawarn Ujjawal , Dash Pradyumna
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates the differential and interactive effects of sectoral and aggregate uncertainty on the corporate debt structure of credit-constrained and credit-unconstrained firms in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The panel fixed-effect model was used to examine the effect of sectoral and aggregate uncertainty on corporate debt structure using annual data of 2,405 firms from 1997 to 2020.

Findings

An increase in sectoral and aggregate uncertainty leads to a greater increase in total and short-term debt and a decrease in long-term debt for credit-constrained firms than in unconstrained ones. However, sectoral uncertainty affects firms’ debt maturity structure more than aggregate uncertainty. Credit-constrained firms use short-term debt to finance capital expenditure during periods of high sectoral uncertainty and working capital requirements during periods of high aggregate uncertainty. When both sectoral and aggregate uncertainty are high, credit-constrained firms decrease total and short-term debt usage more than credit-unconstrained firms do. Our results are robust to a variety of tests, such as different measures of uncertainty, the use of instrument variables and controlling for economic conditions and financial crises.

Originality/value

This study addresses the differential and interactive effects of sectoral and aggregate uncertainty on corporate debt structure.
Micro-municipal administration: a review and network-based framework
Authors: Cristofaro Matteo , Cucari Nicola , Zannoni Anastassia , Laviola Francesco , Monda Antonella , Liberato Lo Conte Davide , Schilleci Pinalba , Girma Haylemariam Leul , Mare Simona Margareta
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Micro-municipalities are a widespread form of local government worldwide. However, research into micro-municipalities is often fragmented across various disciplines (e.g. public management, urban studies, etc.), limiting our understanding of the diverse influences impacting micro-municipal administration. Here, we review the literature on micro-municipalities and investigate the network relationships affecting their administration.

Design/methodology/approach

We performed a systematic literature review on micro-municipal administration. We adopted a network perspective for analysing the sample articles, which helps identify the multiple nodes that influence micro-municipalities’ administration, the drivers of relationships between the nodes, and the direction and flow of authority between these nodes.

Findings

We propose a network-based framework of micro-municipal administration that incorporates tailored interventions and support from higher government levels, adaptive stakeholder engagement, residents’ active participation, and responsive leadership.

Originality/value

This is the first systematic literature review of micro-municipalities and the first to propose a network-based framework for their effective governance.
Does personality matter? Understanding the impacts of real-self and avatar personality traits on metaverse satisfaction
Authors: Yang Shuiqing , Lin Kang , Wang Xi , Li Yixiao , Chen Yuangao , Wei June
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The metaverse enables users to create their own avatars in a shared virtual space, giving rise to a new avatar personality that differs from their real-self personality. The aim of this research is to explore how users' real-self and avatar personalities may affect their behavioral engagement and satisfaction in the metaverse context.

Design/methodology/approach

This research applies self-discrepancy theory to investigate how the big five traits of both real-self and avatar personalities influence users' engagement and satisfaction in the metaverse. The present research employed a mixed-methods approach, beginning with a qualitative study to identify prevalent personality cues among users on metaverse social media platforms. Subsequently, a quantitative study was conducted to further validate the findings of the qualitative study.

Findings

The results indicated that avatar personality scored higher than the real-self personality in the dimensions of openness, conscientiousness and extraversion, while scored lower in the dimensions of agreeableness and neuroticism. Both real-self and avatar personality traits positively influenced metaverse satisfaction via behavioral engagement in the metaverse. Notably, avatar personality traits had a stronger impact on behavioral engagement compared to real-self personality traits, which further influence metaverse satisfaction.

Practical implications

The present study offers practical insights for metaverse developers and managers to enhance user satisfaction by focusing on users’ big five traits of both real-self and avatar personality. It suggests implementing personalized tools, organizing personality-based social activities and other initiatives to encourage user’s behavioral engagement and ultimately enhance metaverse satisfaction.

Originality/value

Unlike existing research that concentrates on a single facet of personality traits, this research employs a mixed-methods approach to conceptualize users' real-self personality and avatar personality, further exploring their impacts on metaverse satisfaction.
How and when collaborative innovation networks influence new product development performance in SMEs: evidence from China
Authors: Lu Chang , Qi Yong , Hao Shibo , Yu Bo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the effect of collaborative innovation networks on new product development (NPD) performance in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). It also investigates the mediating role of business model innovation and moderating role of collaboration experience and external information technology (IT) capability in the above relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the research hypotheses about the relationships above, survey data were collected from 209 Chinese manufacturing SMEs. Multiple hierarchical regressions analysis was used to examine the hypotheses.

Findings

Results reveal that collaborative innovation networks have positive impacts on NPD performance in SMEs. Moreover, business model innovation mediates and collaboration experience and external IT capability positively moderate the relationship between collaborative innovation networks and NPD performance in SMEs.

Originality/value

This study paints a more complete picture of the relationship between collaborative innovation networks and NPD performance in SMEs and advances the understanding of how and when SMEs enhance their NPD performance through collaborative innovation networks.
“Vous parlez anglais?” “Pas du tout”: cross-cultural challenges faced by Chinese inpatriates in France
Authors: Huang Mingzhi , Richardson Christopher , Abdul Rahim Noor Fareen
Published: November 2024

Purpose

China is playing an increasingly prominent role in global business. However, there has been relatively little research on Chinese inpatriates working in Western countries, particularly in non-Anglo cultural contexts. This study attempts to explore the process of cross-cultural adjustment (CCA) and integration into corporate headquarters of Chinese inpatriates working in France, including the favorable factors that accelerate this process.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a qualitative, single-case study of Group X, a pseudonym for a French multinational enterprise, the authors drew on semi-structured interviews with 18 Chinese inpatriates and investigated their CCA and integration process at the French headquarters of their employer.

Findings

The CCA and integration process of Chinese inpatriates at the French headquarters includes three stages: honeymoon and/or crisis period, adjustment and/or integration period and mutual growth period. Chinese inpatriates mainly face language barriers and Sino-French cross-cultural challenges. They overcome these challenges by learning the language and culture of the host country and using co-cultural and cross-cultural Guanxi. Experiences vary, with some Chinese inpatriates bypassing the honeymoon and/or crisis stage and entering directly into the adjustment and/or integration stage and some even leapfrogging both initial phases to attain a stage of mutual growth. Favorable factors for this CCA and integration acceleration include experience of living abroad, the host country language proficiency, organizational service support and the English working environment.

Originality/value

The study enhances the theoretical framework of Chinese expatriates’ psychological adjustment process through two key contributions. First, it enriches the three stages by incorporating new aspects, namely the honeymoon facet at the crisis stage, the integration into the headquarters facet at the self-adjust stage and the promoting organizational growth facet at self-growth stage. Second, it adds precision to the horizontal timeline by incorporating two additional initial points for the adjustment and integration process. Until now, Chinese inpatriates and the French context have received little attention, and this research takes a step forward by illuminating the CCA and integration process of Chinese inpatriates in this non-Anglophone country.
Hybrid metaheuristic algorithm methods and econometric models in prediction of dogecoin price
Authors: Shahvaroughi Farahani Milad , Babaei Shiva , Kharazan Zahra Sadat , Bai Ali , Rahmati Zahra , Ghasemi Ghazal , Alipour Fardin , Farrokhi-Asl Hamed
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to predict Dogecoin price by using artificial intelligence (AI) methods and comparing the results with the econometrics models.

Design/methodology/approach

An artificial neural network (ANN) was applied as a prediction method without any optimization techniques. Additionally, the genetic algorithm (GA) is used to select the most appropriate input variables. Additionally, based on the literature review and the relationships between crypto-price and global indices, 20 economic indicators, such as Coinbase Bitcoin, Coinbase Litecoin and US dollars, along with main global stock indices such as FTSE100 and NIFTY50, are identified as input variables for the model. Lichtenberg algorithm (LA) and aquila optimization (AO) algorithm are used to make the ANN more robust. To validate our algorithms, they have been implemented on daily data for the last three years. To demonstrate the superiority of the models over traditional methods such as econometrics, regression analysis and curve fitting techniques are used. The effectiveness of these models is then evaluated and compared using criteria such as recall, accuracy and precision.

Findings

The results indicate that AI-based algorithms not only enhance the accuracy, recall and precision of calculations but also expedite the process without requiring the numerous and restrictive assumptions associated with time series and econometric models.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this paper is the application of novel approaches such as AO and LA to improve the predictive capabilities of the ANN method for various cryptocurrencies’ prices. It demonstrates the superiority of the proposed algorithms over traditional econometric models using real-life data.
Impact of digital technologies on manufacturing firm resilience during COVID-19 pandemic: a PLS-SEM and artificial neural network analysis
Authors: Basit Abdul , Wang Laijun , Javed Asma , Shoaib Muhammad , Aslam Muhammad Umer
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The emergence of the COVID-19 epidemic has considerably increased the intricacy of information, exacerbating the difficulties firms encounter in efficiently processing and understanding accurate data and knowledge. Consequently, the COVID-19 epidemic has profoundly exacerbated production ambiguity for firms, thereby disrupting their regular business operations and supply chain activities. Digital technologies (DTs) are essential tools for firms to process and interpret information and knowledge, thereby improving their resilience against supply chain interruptions.

Design/methodology/approach

This research investigates the effect of digital technologies on firm resilience throughout COVID-19, utilizing PLS-SEM and artificial neural networks (ANN) derived from a comprehensive survey of Pakistani manufacturing firms.

Findings

Our research assesses the mediating role of supply chain integration, memory, and absorptive capacity, as well as the moderating influence of information complexity. The outcomes demonstrate that supply chain integration (SCI), memory (SCM), and absorptive capacity (SCAC) mediate digital technologies’ influence on firm resilience. Moreover, in situations where information is highly complex, DTs have a greater effect on a firm’s resilience.

Originality/value

The results enhance our comprehension and awareness of the resilience-related effects of DTs and offer significant management insights for strengthening firm resilience in the setting of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Distinguishing altruism from warm glow: psychological motivations for money donations to Thailand’s Buddhist society
Authors: Amonhaemanon Dalina , Khongkaew Panita , Akartwipart Ausawatap , Thamthanakoon Nithicha
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the factors influencing monetary donations in Thailand, a developing Buddhist nation. We explore the interplay of demographic, socioeconomic, psychological and social factors on individual donation behavior, focusing on frequency, amount, planning and motivation. Our primary aim is to distinguish pure altruism from the “warm glow” effect and identify the optimal model explaining how donation behavior impacts donor life satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured, self-administered questionnaire surveyed 450 Thai charitable donors (convenience sample) using logistic regression analysis in SPSS

Findings

The study revealed females and those with higher education exhibited stronger altruistic motives, while a warm glow motivated five distinct groups: 1) older, 2) unmarried, 3) those with high external locus of control, 4) reputation-conscious donors and 5) those aware of public health benefits like medical care access. Additionally, pre-planned donations were associated with five factors: 1) debt-free, 2) Buddhist faith, 3) belief in societal improvement through donations, 4) witnessing family members donate and 5) awareness of public health benefits including receiving royal decorations.

Practical implications

This research provides valuable insights for policymakers and charities. By understanding donor motivations, targeted incentives (e.g. emphasizing the “warm glow” effect) can be designed to increase donations and address social issues.

Originality/value

The study suggests tax deduction campaigns may be less effective than expected, as awareness of deductions correlated with lower donation frequency and amount. To incentivize giving, the government should focus on factors most linked to donor satisfaction. This research indicates warm glow is the strongest driver, followed by donation frequency, planning behavior and amount donated.
RSM applied to lattice patterns for stiffness optimization
Authors: Donnici Giampiero , Freddi Marco , Liverani Alfredo
Published: November 2024

Purpose

In this study, response surface methodology (RSM) is applied to a three-point bending stiffness analysis of low-cost material (PLA) specimens printed using FDM technology to analyze the performance of different internal lattice structures (Octet and IsoTruss principally). The purpose of this study is to extend the definition from a discrete (lattice) model to an analytical one for its use in subsequent design phases, capable of optimizing the type of cell to be used and its defining parameters to find the best stiffness-to-weight ratio.

Design/methodology/approach

The representative function of their mechanical behavior is extrapolated through a two-variable polynomial model based on the cell size and the thickness of the beam elements characterizing it. The polynomial is obtained thanks to several tests performed according to the scheme of RSM. An analysis on the estimation errors due to discontinuities in the physical specimens is also conducted. Physical tests applied to the specimens showed some divergences from the virtual (ideal) behavior of the specimens.

Findings

The study allowed to validate the RSM models proposed to predict the behavior of the system as the size, thickness and type of cells vary. Changes in stiffness and weight of specimens follow linear and quadratic models, respectively. This generally allows to find optimal design points where the stiffness-to-weight ratio is at its highest.

Originality/value

Although the literature provides numerous references to studies characterizing and parameterizing lattice structures, the industrial/practical applications concerning lattice structures are often still detached from theoretical research and limited to achieving functioning models rather than optimal ones. The approach here described is also aimed at overcoming this limitation. The software used for the design is nTop. Subsequent three-point bending tests have validated the reliability of the model derived from the method’s application.
Deep learning‐based inversion with discrete cosine transform discretization for two‐dimensional basement relief imaging of sedimentary basins from observed gravity anomalies
Authors: Roy Arka , Ekinci Yunus Levent , Balkaya Çağlayan , Ai Hanbing
Published: November 2024

Sedimentary basins, integral to Earth's geological history and energy resource exploration, undergo complex changes driven by sedimentation, subsidence and geological processes. Gravity anomaly inversion is a crucial technique offering insights into subsurface structures and density variations. Our study addresses the challenge of complex subsurface structure assessment by leveraging deep neural networks to invert observed gravity anomalies. Optimization approaches traditionally incorporate known density distributions obtained from borehole data or geological logging for inverting basement depth in sedimentary basins using observed gravity anomalies. Our study explores the application of deep neural networks in accurate architectural assessment of sedimentary basins and demonstrates their significance in mineral and hydrocarbon exploration. Recent years have witnessed a surge in the use of machine learning in geophysics, with deep learning models playing a pivotal role. Integrating deep neural networks, such as the feedforward neural networks, has revolutionized subsurface density distribution and basement depth estimation. This study introduces a deep neural network specifically tailored for inverting observed gravity anomalies to estimate two‐dimensional basement relief topographies in sedimentary basins. To enhance computational efficiency, a one‐dimensional discrete cosine transform based discretization approach is employed. Synthetic data, generated using non‐Gaussian fractals, compensates for the scarcity of true datasets for training the deep neural network model. The algorithm's robustness is validated through noise introduction with comparisons against an efficient and traditional global optimization‐based approach. Gravity anomalies of real sedimentary basins further validate the algorithm's efficacy, establishing it as a promising methodology for accurate and efficient subsurface imaging in geological exploration.
Soil moisture mediates the effect of plant below‐ground carbon allocation on the decomposition of root litter in a subtropical forest
Authors: Xi Meijie , Zeng Xiaoyue , Yang Yin , Liang Shuang , Cai Liangyuan , Pan Zichen , Liu Yu , Fernandez Christopher W. , Koide Roger T. , Chen Weile
Published: November 2024

Trees allocate carbon below‐ground to fuel the functioning of roots and mycorrhizal fungi, which affect litter decomposition, but the direction and magnitude of this effect are variable. While tree mycorrhizal type is often suggested to mediate this above‐ground–below‐ground linkage, previous studies yield mixed results. In this study, we investigated how absorptive root traits, soil conditions and litter type influence the response of litter decomposition to altered below‐ground carbon allocation, both within and across mycorrhizal types.

We girdled transport roots of seven subtropical tree species to eliminate carbon allocation to distal absorptive roots. We monitored leaf and root litter decomposition surrounding girdled and un‐girdled root branches.

We found that girdling generally slowed leaf litter decomposition. However, the effect of girdling on root litter decomposition depended on soil moisture, stimulating decomposition in dry soil but suppressing it in moist soil. Absorptive root traits did not influence the girdling effect on either leaf or root litter decomposition. These findings suggest that disturbance in carbon allocation can impact litter decomposition, with the outcome largely contingent on litter type and soil moisture.

Synthesis. Our findings highlight the importance of accounting for local soil variability in understanding the relationship between above‐ground and below‐ground carbon dynamics. This study underscores a critical need for comprehensive assessment of below‐ground ecosystem responses to above‐ground disturbances, as it is essential for accurately predicting future forest carbon and nutrient cycles.
Promoting sustainable agri‐food production to achieve food and nutrition security: The role of soil conservation practices
Authors: Li Junpeng , Vatsa Puneet , Ma Wanglin , Luu Phong Quoc
Published: November 2024

We examine the role of soil conservation practices (SCPs) in promoting sustainable agri‐food production to achieve food and nutrition security. To this end, we use the endogenous treatment regression model, as it allows us to address the selection bias associated with SCP adoption. Data sourced from the 2020 China Land Economic Survey, collected by Nanjing Agricultural University, China, are examined. First, we analyse the association between the adoption of SCPs and rice yield; we focus on rice as it is the most common staple food globally. Then, we examine the links between SCP adoption and dietary diversity and the consumption of seven specific foods (rice, potato, pork, poultry, egg, fruits and vegetable oil). This allows us to glean insights into how SCPs may affect the dietary patterns in rural communities. The findings show that adopting SCPs is associated with an 8.5% increase in rice yield. Rice yields increase with the intensification of SCP adoption. Disaggregated analysis suggests that low‐income farmers receive the most rice yield promotion by adopting SCPs compared with wealthier ones. Meanwhile, among the three SCPs (i.e. soil remediation, commercial organic fertiliser application and formulated fertilisation) considered in our study, only formulated fertilisation increases rice yields. Furthermore, adopting SCPs is associated with higher consumption of protein‐rich foods and lower dietary diversity.
A Political–Economic Model of Community and Societal Health Resources: A 92‐Country Global Analysis
Authors: Omidvar Tehrani Shadi , Perkins Douglas D. , Mihaylov Nikolay L.
Published: November 2024

The quality and access to healthcare systems depend on community health resources, infrastructure, and funding; however, a significant disparity in these resources persists globally. The effectiveness of national health systems depends on a balanced approach to health spending, access to facilities and a skilled local health workforce. What accounts for country‐level differences in those critical community and societal health resources? We proposed and tested a model that leverages political and socioeconomic factors to predict various health resources and services in countries. Data, including community health training, research, and support, universal health coverage, healthcare infrastructure, and per capita health expenditure, were collected and analysed by statistical methods, like bivariate correlations and hierarchical multiple linear regressions from 105 countries. Countries with more grassroots activism, fiscal decentralisation, freedom, and globalisation and less perceived corruption and inequality had more community and societal health resources. In multivariate analyses, stronger community health training and research is associated with the globalisation index, freedom score, government fiscal decentralisation, and income inequality. The strongest predictor of health insurance coverage and hospital beds was the country's population education index, and of nurses and midwives‐per‐capita and health expenditures‐per‐capita was GDP‐per‐capita. These insights could guide policymaking to reduce global health inequalities.
Evaluation of silver nanoformulated plant extracts against larvae of the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), under laboratory and field conditions
Authors: Abbas Umair , Majeed Muhammad Zeeshan , Alkherb Wafa Abdullah Hamad , Alshehri Mohammed Ali , Alkeridis Lamya Ahmed , Sayed Samy , Majeed Muhammad Irfan , Riaz Muhammad Asam
Published: November 2024

The fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (J. E. Smith), is a destructive pest of Zea mays (maize) and other agricultural crops. The synthetic insecticides predominantly used against this pest lead to pest resistance, environmental contamination and health hazards. This study evaluated nanoformulated aqueous extracts of some promising local plant species against third instar larvae of S. frugiperda under laboratory and field conditions. The initial screening bioassay showed highest larval mortality with a 20% extract of Nicotiana tabacum L. (66.67%), followed by Azadirachta indica A. Juss. (53.33%), Withania somnifera L. (46.67%), Melia azedarach L. (40%) and Dodonaea viscosa Jacq. (33.33%). The two most effective plant extracts (A. indica and N. tabacum) were further nanoformulated with silver nitrate (AgNO3) and bioassayed against S. frugiperda larvae using different concentrations. The results showed that these nanoformulated extracts caused significant larval mortality, with LC50 (lethal concentration that kills 50% of the population) and LT50 (lethal time to kill 50% of the population) values of 37.36 and 28.21% at 72 h, and 52.19 and 33.25 h at 80% concentration, respectively. Field experiments on Zea mays L. (maize) plants showed maximum larval reduction by nanoformulated A. indica extract (48%), followed by N. tabacum extract (36%), whereas 80% and 20% larval reduction was noted for the positive (SuperLock®, emamectin benzoate and tebufenozide) and the negative (water) controls, respectively. Furthermore, characterization of both silver nanoparticles‐based plant extract formulations was performed using ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) techniques, which confirmed the formation of silver nanoparticles. It is concluded that nanoformulated plant extracts can be an effective alternative to synthetic pesticides in combatting S. frugiperda and other lepidopteran pests.
Analysis and control of hybrid convection‐radiation drying systems toward energy saving strategy
Authors: Qenawy Mohamed , Ali Mona , El‐Mesery Hany S. , Hu Zicheng
Published: November 2024

Food drying is a vital technology in agricultural preservation, where hybrid drying provides efficient moisture removal. However, the transient behavior of the moisture ratio () and associated drying rate () could increase energy consumption if not managed with an effective energy‐saving strategy. This study investigates the impacts of hybrid convection‐radiation drying on , , drying time, and energy consumption. Unlike previous studies, which have not fully addressed the connections between operating conditions and drying kinetics, this work provides new insights into these relationships. Additionally, an artificial neural network (ANN) control model is applied to optimize energy consumption, offering a new approach to improving the efficiency of the drying process. During the experiment, the airflow velocity was varied from 0.7 m/s to 1.5 m/s, the airflow temperature was varied from 40°C to 60°C, and the radiation intensity was varied from 1500 W/m2 to 3000 W/m2. The results showed that the transient behavior exhibited four data groups with consistent and through the mean and statistical analysis. Increasing radiation intensity and air temperature has decreased the drying time, while higher airflow has increased the drying time. The energy indices were enhanced by increasing radiation intensity and temperature while reducing airflow velocity. The measured of all groups exhibited similar kinetics behavior, while the associated exhibited similar clustering through the self‐organizing map. Those findings were further controlled using an ANN model with 99% predicting accuracy. With airborne heating at 60°C and airflow at 0.7 m/s, the radiation intensity is transiently controlled, showing a 6.5% drying time reduction and a 36% energy saving. Thus, controlling the radiation intensity and its impact on the slice properties is highly desirable in future work. This work could help designers improve the processing efficiency and energy conservation of garlic slices drying.
Influences of serving temperatures on human perceived spiciness intensity of commercial spicy sauces
Authors: Chon Seo‐yeong , Shin Yejin , Kim Mina K.
Published: November 2024

The objective of this study was to examine the effects of serving temperatures on the perceived spiciness intensities of commercial spicy sauces, which vary in capsaicinoid content. A total of 9 types of commercially available spicy sauces were used and capsaicinoid content was analyzed using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. To assess spiciness intensity, a highly trained panel (n = 6) rated the spiciness intensities at 4, 25, and 60°C. The spiciness intensity was assessed on a 15‐point scale using the spectral method. Panelists were instructed to assess the spiciness intensities from the moment the sauce was in the mouth until 50 s after expectoration, hence, allowing evaluations of intensities both in‐mouth and at Tmax. This allowed us to evaluate both the time and intensity of Tmax, the time when the spiciness in the mouth is most intense. The range of total capsaicinoids analyzed in this study spanned from 0.06 to 25.70 µg/mL. Serving temperature was found to have minimal impact on spiciness intensity (p > 0.05), and the liquid type sauces elicited higher spiciness intensities than the paste type sauces. Regardless of serving temperature, spiciness intensities measured at Tmax consistently exceeded those measured in‐mouth. These findings suggest considerations for formulation and presentation temperature when developing sauce products.

Practical Application

This study found no significant differences in spiciness intensity at the three tested temperatures (4, 25, and 60°C). However, the peak intensity of spiciness was observed approximately 20 s after expectoration, not immediately upon intake. These findings may contribute significantly to our understanding of the mechanisms of spicy perception and the interactions between spicy taste and the nervous system, gustatory system, and other senses.
Changes in quality characteristics and inactivation of Salmonella in cake, including oleogel used as a fat replacer, baked with two different methods
Authors: Ozdemir‐Orhan Necla , Eroglu Zeynep , Omac Basri
Published: November 2024

This is the first study to assess the impact of substitution of shortening (50%) with sunflower‐beeswax oleogel in cake formulations on the inactivation kinetics of Salmonella spp. and the quality attributes of cakes baked in conventional (CO) and microwave (MWO) ovens. Four distinct cake samples were examined in the study: Cake samples containing oleogel prepared in two different ovens (Oleo‐Cake‐CO and Oleo‐Cake‐MWO) and control cake samples baked in two different ovens (Cont‐Cake‐CO and Cont‐Cake‐MWO). The control‐batter and oleogel‐batter demonstrated shear thinning behavior (pseudoplastic, n < 1), with a good fit to the Power Law model, but viscosity and viscoelastic moduli decreased when the oleogel was used in place of shortening in cake recipes. In addition, the Cont‐Cake‐MWO had the greatest special volume value (2.31 ± 0.04 mL/g), whereas the Oleo‐Cake‐CO had the lowest (1.65 ± 0.02 mL/g) (p < 0.05). Furthermore, compared to the samples baked with CO, lower water activity and moisture values (p < 0.05) were observed in the samples baked in MWO due to their higher cooking loss values (p < 0.05). In all baking techniques, the addition of oleogel to the cake formula, used as a fat substitute, resulted in higher values for cohesiveness, hardness, springiness, and chewiness (p < 0.05). As a result, the inactivation of Salmonella in cakes slightly reduced with using oleogel as a fat substitute (p > 0.05), whereas it affected some quality properties of cakes baked with both heat treatments.
Oxidation protection efficiency of the combination of Minthostachys mollis K. and Origanum vulgare L. essential oils with “chain‐breaking” and “termination‐enhancing” antioxidant mechanisms
Authors: Juncos Nicolle Stefani , Ponso Carolina Florencia Cravero , Grosso Nelson Rubén , Olmedo Rubén Horacio
Published: November 2024

The use of antioxidants is known to reduce lipid oxidation. This study aimed to assess the interaction of two antioxidant mechanisms, namely, “chain‐breaking” and “termination‐enhancing” by combining natural antioxidants derived from “oregano” (Origanum vulgare L.) and “peperina” (Minthostachys mollis K.) essential oils (EOs) in an accelerated oxidation process of sunflower oil at 60°C. Concentrations of 0.05% w/w (1) and 0.02% w/w (2) of the combined oregano and peperina EOs were evaluated. Chemical and volatile oxidation markers were determined in comparison with the pure compounds, an antioxidant‐free control, and a BHT‐treated sample (0.02% w/w). Although the combinations exhibited lower oxidation indicator values (Anisidine ≈ 136) compared to the control (Anisidine ≈ 213), no evidence of a synergistic effect was observed (Anisidine: Oregano 1 ≈ 52; Oregano 2 ≈ 199; Peperina 1 ≈ 155; Peperina 2 ≈ 153), indicating that the combination did not enhance their antioxidant activity beyond that of the pure EOs. Thus, evaluating these combinations in other food matrices is important.

Practical Application

Food oxidation is one of the main causes of food spoilage, and the search for natural antioxidants has become a necessity for society's increasing food knowledge and consumption preference. The research is focused on demonstrating that not only natural phenolic compounds with a “chain‐breaking” mechanism have efficient antioxidant activity but also non‐phenolic terpenes using the “termination enhancer” mechanism are efficient, but also the combination of them, which provides more alternative antioxidants for industrial applications.
Bacteriophages and their potential for treatment of metabolic diseases
Authors: Deng Youpeng , Jiang Shouwei , Duan Hanyu , Shao Haonan , Duan Yi
Published: November 2024

Recent advances highlight the role of gut virome, particularly phageome, in metabolic disorders such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, metabolic dysfunction‐associated fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular diseases, including hypertension, stroke, coronary heart disease, and hyperlipidemia. While alterations in gut bacteria are well‐documented, emerging evidence suggests that changes in gut viruses also contribute to these disorders. Bacteriophages, the most abundant gut viruses, influence bacterial populations through their lytic and lysogenic cycles, potentially modulating the gut ecosystem and metabolic pathways. Phage therapy, previously overshadowed by antibiotics, is experiencing renewed interest due to rising antibiotic resistance. It offers a novel approach to precisely edit the gut microbiota, with promising applications in metabolic diseases. In this review, we summarize recent discoveries about gut virome in metabolic disease patients, review preclinical and clinical studies of phage therapy on metabolic diseases as well as the breakthroughs and currently faced problems and concerns.

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Comparing the effectiveness of different DNA extraction methods in MX‐80 bentonite
Authors: Mijnendonckx Kristel , Smolders Carla , Bartak Deepa , Le Duc Trung , Morales‐Hidalgo Mar , Povedano‐Priego Cristina , Jroundi Fadwa , Merroun Mohamed L. , Leys Natalie , Cerna Katerina
Published: November 2024

Approaches to DNA extraction play a crucial role in determining the variability of results obtained through 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Particularly, clay‐rich samples can impede the efficiency of various standard cultivation‐independent techniques. We conducted an inter‐laboratory comparison study to thoroughly assess the efficacy of two published DNA extraction methods (kit‐based and phenol‐chloroform‐based) specifically designed for bentonite samples. To this end, we spiked Wyoming MX 80 bentonite with two different mock communities and compared the obtained DNA yield and purity, the presence of contaminants and the community profile. Our findings suggest that both methods are equally viable, with the best choice depending on the specific requirements of the downstream analysis. However, it is crucial to maintain consistency in the chosen method, as comparing results becomes challenging, particularly in the presence of bentonite. In summary, our study emphasizes the significance of standardized DNA extraction methods and underscores the importance of validating these methods using appropriate controls when studying microbial communities with 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing, particularly in environments characterized by low biomass and clay‐rich compositions. Additionally, slight modifications to one of the extraction methods can substantially enhance its efficiency.
Immune Signatures of Solid Tumor Patients Treated With Immune Checkpoint Inhibitors: An Observational Study
Authors: Chen Ling , Tan Hourui , Geng Ruixuan , Li Yifan , Wang Yingyi , Li Taisheng
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Our study aimed to comprehensively describe the features of peripheral blood multiple immune cell phenotypes in solid tumor patients during pretreatment and after immunotherapy, providing a more convenient approach for studying the prognosis of immunotherapy in different solid tumor patients.

Methods

We prospectively recruited patients with advanced solid tumors from Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) between February 2023 and April 2024. Using multicolor flow cytometry, our study comprehensively observed and described the signatures of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets including activation, proliferation, function, naïve memory, and T cell exhaustion immune cell subsets in this population of pretreatment and after immunotherapy.

Results

Our study enrolled 59 advanced solid tumor patients with immunotherapy and 59 healthy controls were matched by age and gender. The results demonstrated a marked upregulation in the expression of lymphocyte activation markers CD38 and HLA‐DR, as well as exhaustion and proliferation markers PD‐1 and Ki67, in solid tumor patients compared to healthy controls. After immune checkpoint blockade (ICB) treatment, mainly the expression of Ki67CD4+T and HLA‐DRCD38CD4+T, was significantly upregulated compared to pretreatment levels (p = 0.017, p = 0.019, respectively). We further found that gynecological tumors with better prognoses had higher baseline activation levels of CD4+ T cells compared to other solid tumors with poorer prognoses.

Conclusion

Our study elucidated the characteristics of different lymphocyte subsets in the peripheral blood of solid tumor patients. Further research revealed changes in the phenotypes of different lymphocyte subsets after ICIs treatment, with the activated phenotype of CD4+ T cells playing a crucial role in the antitumor effect. This lays the groundwork for further exploration of prognostic biomarkers and predictive models for cancer patients with immunotherapy.
Hologenomic data generation and analysis in wild vertebrates
Authors: Pietroni Carlotta , Gaun Nanna , Leonard Aoife , Lauritsen Jonas , Martin‐Bideguren Garazi , Odriozola Iñaki , Aizpurua Ostaizka , Alberdi Antton , Eisenhofer Raphael
Published: November 2024

Hologenomics, the joint analysis of host genomes and microbial metagenomes, has the potential to address fundamental biological questions from a systemic host‐microbiota perspective. However, multiple fieldwork, laboratory and bioinformatic steps challenge quality, representativeness and comparability of hologenomic data.

Leveraging the first 2025 samples sourced from 151 wild vertebrate species analysed in the Earth Hologenome Initiative, we scrutinise hologenomic data generation steps, including laboratory and bioinformatic procedures. Comparisons across taxa and sample types provide novel insights into the relationships between laboratory quality metrics and derived data, the variation of host, prokaryotic and non‐prokaryotic fractions of shotgun data, and the relationship between data quality and quantity with genome and metagenome reconstruction.

Our results show that faecal samples are significantly better than anal and cloacal swabs to study intestinal microbiomes using genome‐resolved metagenomics. We also report that birds and bats both have substantially lower microbial DNA fractions and a higher degree of sample‐to‐sample variability compared to amphibians, reptiles and non‐flying mammals.

Based on these data, we provide suggestions to the field for robustly and efficiently generating hologenomic data from wild vertebrates.
Stiffening symphony of aging: Biophysical changes in senescent osteocytes
Authors: Tilton Maryam , Weivoda Megan , Astudillo Potes Maria , Gingery Anne , Liu Alan Y. , Tchkonia Tamara , Lu Lichun , Kirkland James L.
Published: November 2024

Senescent osteocytes are key contributors to age‐related bone loss and fragility; however, the impact of mechanobiological changes in these cells remains poorly understood. This study provides a novel analysis of these changes in primary osteocytes following irradiation‐induced senescence. By integrating subcellular mechanical measurements with gene expression analyses, we identified significant, time‐dependent alterations in the mechanical properties of senescent bone cells. Increases in classical markers such as SA‐β‐Gal activity and p16Ink4a expression levels confirmed the senescence status post‐irradiation. Our key findings include a time‐dependent increase in cytoskeletal Young's modulus and altered viscoelastic properties of the plasma membrane, affecting the contractility of primary osteocytes. Additionally, we observed a significant increase in Sclerostin (Sost) expression 21 days post‐irradiation. These biophysical changes may impair osteocyte mechanosensation and mechanotransduction, contributing to bone fragility. This is the first study to time‐map senescence‐associated mechanical changes in the osteocyte cytoskeleton. Our findings highlight the potential of biophysical markers as indicators of cellular senescence, providing more specificity than traditional, variable biomolecular markers. We believe these results may support biomechanical stimulation as a potential therapeutic strategy to rejuvenate aging osteocytes and enhance bone health.
Long term trends in non‐audit fees and audit quality: New evidence based on going concern opinions and financial restatements
Authors: Biswas Pallab Kumar , Griffin Paul A. , Lont David H.
Published: November 2024

We revisit the question of whether high levels of non‐audit fees degrade audit quality. We use a structural model to specify the key variables and a grouping approach to reduce measurement error and tighten identification of the non‐audit fee threat to audit quality. We use going concern opinions (GCOs) and financial restatements to proxy for audit quality. We find that higher non‐audit fees reduce the percentage of GCOs issued around the passage of the Sarbanes–Oxley Act of 2002 (SOX), and that restatements are higher around SOX also. The trends in the GCO and restatement percentages after SOX are consistent with an improvement in audit quality.
Discovery through iNaturalist: First record of Hoplopeza Bezzi, 1909 (Diptera: Hybotidae) from New Zealand and an updated key to the genera of Ocydromiinae from the Australasian Region
Authors: Barros Luana M. , Soares Matheus M. M. , Ale‐Rocha Rosaly
Published: November 2024

Hoplopeza pulcherrima (Bezzi, 1909) is recorded from New Zealand through photographs posted on the website iNaturalist, corresponding to the first record of the genus Hoplopeza for this country. Furthermore, we redescribed H. pulcherrima through specimens collected near the type locality in New South Wales, Australia. An updated key for the genera of Ocydromiinae from the Australasian Region is also provided.
Radiographic Assessment of the Hind Limb Bone Development in Maned Wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus)
Authors: Gonçalves Raphael A. B. , Rahal Sheila C. , Silva Jeana P. , Cassanego Guilherme R. , Mamprim Maria J. , Rolim Luna S. , Teixeira Carlos R. , Inamassu Letícia R.
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to analyse the growth plate fusion and secondary ossification centres of the hind limbs in maned wolves (Chrysocyon brachyurus) using radiographs. Data from three maned wolves estimated to be 3–4 months old were utilised. The right and left hind limbs were radiographed in the mediolateral and craniocaudal views once a month until 11–12 months of age and then every 2–3 months until 18–19 months of age. The growth plates identified in the hind limbs and their closure times were as follows: proximal femur (13–15 months), distal femur (13–15 months), proximal tibia (17–19 months), tibial tuberosity (17–19 months), distal tibia (11–13 months), proximal fibula (13–15 months) and calcaneal tuber (8–9 months). Measurements of the areas of the secondary ossification centres of the proximal epiphysis of the femur, distal epiphysis of the tibia, patella and fibular tarsal bone epiphysis showed a significant difference between the first assessment and 6–7 months. The distal femoral epiphysis, proximal tibial epiphysis and tibial tuberosity showed a statistically significant difference between the first assessment and 7–8 months. The difference in the proximal epiphysis of the fibula was observed between 4 to 5 months and 7 to 8 months. In conclusion, the information obtained regarding the growth plates and secondary ossification centres of the maned wolves may support other studies and help understand the normal patterns of the species.