bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mast cell activation and nutritional disorders in patients with hypermobility
Authors: Penny Hugo A. , Aziz Imran , Lam Ching
Published: February 2024

Purpose of review

Individuals with joint hypermobility disorders are increasingly referred to gastroenterology services for support with the investigation and management of gastrointestinal complaints. Individuals can present with a myriad of complex coexisting diagnoses, the inter-relationship of which is unclear. This review discusses the proposed association between hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (hEDS) and hypermobility spectrum disorder (HSD) with disorders of mast cell activation and provides an overview of gastrointestinal symptoms and nutritional outcomes in this patient cohort.

Recent findings

It is unclear whether a true association between hEDS/HSD and mast cell activation disorders exists. There is a high prevalence of nonspecific gastrointestinal symptoms in individuals with hEDS/HSD and patients may be at risk of macro-nutrient and micro-nutrient deficiencies, although the current evidence base is limited.

We advocate a pragmatic approach to the investigation and management of gastrointestinal symptoms in patients with hEDS/HSD. This centres on excluding organic pathology, discussing the overlap with disorders of gut-brain interactions, trialling evidence-based therapies targeting individual symptoms, and supporting nutritional deficiencies where present via the least invasive approach. Engagement with a broad multidisciplinary team is also important to support the holistic needs of this patient cohort.
Metformin Eliminates Lymphedema in Mice by Alleviating Inflammation and Fibrosis: Implications for Human Therapy
Authors: Wei Miaomiao , Wang Liangliang , Liu Xin , Deng Yaping , Yang Sanhong , Pan Wenjie , Zhang Xiaoshan , Xu Guangchao , Xiao Shune , Deng Chengliang
Published: February 2024

Background:

Secondary lymphedema is a chronic, disabling disease affecting more than 50% of patients with cancer and lacking effective pharmacologic treatment even for early to middle disease stages. Metformin reportedly exerts anti-inflammatory and antifibrotic effects and is safe, with minimal side effects. The authors investigated the role of metformin in lymphedema mouse models and examined underlying molecular mechanisms.

Methods:

Male C57BL/6 mice (6 to 8 weeks old; n = 15/group) received metformin (300 mg/kg/day) by gavage on day 3 after lymphedema surgery; saline and sham groups were administered the same volume of saline. Hindlimb circumference and tail volume were monitored every 2 days. On day 28, samples were collected for histologic assessment, Western blotting, and reverse transcription quantitative polymerase chain reaction analysis of inflammation, fibrosis, and AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) expression. AMPK activity was assayed in patients with secondary lymphedema (International Society of Lymphology stage II) and controls following strict inclusion criteria.

Results:

Compared with the saline group, the metformin group exhibited hindlimb circumference and tail volume reduced by 469.70% and 305.18%, respectively, on day 28. Dermal thickness was reduced by 38.27% and 72.57% in the hindlimbs and tail, respectively. Metformin decreased CD4+ T-cell infiltration by 19.73%, and decreased expression levels of interleukin-4, interleukin-13, interleukin-17, and transforming growth factor–β1. In addition, it lowered collagen I deposition by 33.18%. Compared with the saline group, the number of lymphatic vessels increased by 229.96% in the metformin group. Both the saline group mice and patients with lymphedema showed reduced AMPK activity; metformin increased p-AMPK expression by 106.12%.

Conclusion:

Metformin alleviated inflammation and fibrosis and increased lymphangiogenesis in lymphedema mouse models by activating AMPK signaling.

Clinical Relevance Statement:

Metformin provides preliminary evidence as a potential therapeutic option for lymphedema.
Pluvicto-Induced 18F-PSMA PET Bone Flare
Authors: Wang Xiaofei , Martin Daniel , Hogan Thomas , Veselicky Kenneth
Published: February 2024

A 79-year-old man with a history of metastatic prostate cancer was initially treated with Eligard and switched to relugolix in 2021. The 2022 bone scan presented superscan and extensive osseous metastatic lesions; some had intense PSMA uptake on the initial PSMA PET scan without nodal or visceral metastatic lesions. We treated him with Pluvicto and relugolix. The intermediate PSMA scan demonstrated prominent bone marrow PSMA uptake. However, PSA decreased 58.5%. We hypothesized that the patient might have a bone flare. The final PSMA scan confirmed our hypothesis. Based on our knowledge, this is the first case of Pluvicto-induced bone flare.
Prostate-Specific Membrane Antigen PET/CT Detection of Prostate Cancer Metastasis to Thyroid and Cricoid Cartilages
Authors: Eichhorn Joshua , Nelson Nadia , Raichandani Surbhi , Sesler Aaron , Palot Manzil Fathima Fijula
Published: February 2024

Prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA) PET/CT has revolutionized the imaging of prostate cancer. Historically, prostate cancer metastasis to thyroid and cricoid cartilages was thought to be exceedingly rare, with only a few reported cases in the literature. Prostate cancer metastasis to the laryngeal cartilages was detected in 4 of 221 patients who underwent imaging with 18F-PSMA (Pylarify) or 68Ga-PSMA (Illuccix) PET/CT for initial staging of high-risk prostate cancer or restaging evaluation in the setting of biochemical recurrence from April 2022 through October 2023. The increased sensitivity and specificity of PSMA PET/CT allow for the detection of previously occult metastatic disease.
Rotation of a Part of the Composite Flap for Simultaneous Gonion Reduction and Malar Augmentation During Rhytidectomy in Asians
Authors: Han Chung Hee
Published: February 2024

Background

The desired facial shape that Asians aim to achieve through plastic surgery differs from that of westerners.

Objectives

The author facilitates facial volume deflation by using the rotation of a part of the composite flap to the malar area resulting in volumetric augmentation during rhytidectomy; simultaneously, a volumetric reduction was implemented in the gonion.

Methods

Extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap was performed in 49 patients, whereas extended deep plane rhytidectomy without the rotation of a part of the composite flap was performed in 20 patients. For the results, the satisfaction survey of the surgery was conducted in all patients and by 2 surgeons during a follow-up visit 12 months later. To assess the surgical outcome objectively, the author used the Allergan photometric midface volume deficit scale to measure the midface volume. The midface contour and degree of projection were analyzed using lateral view photographs of the patients. The measurement of segment CM (distance between the lateral canthus and mouth corner) and segment MA (distance from segment CM to the most protruding malar area) was performed.

Results

The patients who underwent extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap reported higher overall satisfaction and achieved more favorable results, as evaluated by the 2 aesthetic surgeons (P < 0.05). The scores on the Allergan photometric midface volume deficit scale showed a significant increase before and after the surgery in both groups (P < 0.05), also as evaluated by the 2 aesthetic surgeons. However, the change in scores was found to be higher in the extended deep plane rhytidectomy with the rotation of a part of the composite flap group. The midface contour and degree of projection showed an increase of 20.6% on the right face and 22.7% on the left face, respectively (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Using the rotation of a part of the composite flap during rhytidectomy resulted in overall satisfactory outcomes for all patients. Based on these findings, it can be concluded that the use of this surgical method is beneficial and effective.
B Cell–mediated Immune Regulation and the Quest for Transplantation Tolerance
Authors: Baert Laurie , Mahmudul Hasan Md , Stegall Mark , Joo HyeMee , Oh SangKon
Published: February 2024

Pathophysiologic function of B cells in graft rejection has been well recognized in transplantation. B cells promote alloantigen-specific T-cell response and secrete antibodies that can cause antibody-mediated graft failures and rejections. Therefore, strategies targeting B cells, for example, B-cell depletion, have been used for the prevention of both acute and chronic rejections. Interestingly, however, recent mounting evidence indicates that subsets of B cells yet to be further identified can display potent immune regulatory functions, and they contribute to transplantation tolerance and operational tolerance in both experimental and clinical settings, respectively. In this review, we integrate currently available information on B-cell subsets, including T-cell Ig domain and mucin domain 1-positive transitional and T-cell immunoreceptor with Ig and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif domain-positive memory B cells, displaying immune regulatory functions, with a focus on transplantation tolerance, by analyzing their mechanisms of action. In addition, we will discuss potential T-cell Ig domain and mucin domain 1-positive and T-cell immunoreceptor with Ig and immunoreceptor tyrosine-based inhibitory motif domain-positive B cell–based strategies for the enhancement of operational tolerance in transplantation patients.
Three-dimensional checkerboard spin structure on a breathing pyrochlore lattice
Authors: Dronova Margarita G. , Petříček Václav , Morgan Zachary , Ye Feng , Silevitch Daniel M. , Feng Yejun
Published: February 2024

The standard approach to realize a spin-liquid state is through magnetically frustrated states, relying on ingredients such as the lattice geometry, dimensionality, and magnetic interaction type of the spins. While Heisenberg spins on a pyrochlore lattice with only antiferromagnetic nearest-neighbor interactions are theoretically proven disordered, spins in real systems generally include longer-range interactions. The spatial correlations at longer distances typically stabilize a long-range order rather than enhancing a spin-liquid state. Both states can, however, be destroyed by short-range static correlations introduced by chemical disorder. Here, using disorder-free specimens with a clear long-range antiferromagnetic order, we refine the spin structure of the Heisenberg spinel ZnFe2O4 through neutron magnetic diffraction. The unique wave vector (1,0,12) leads to a spin structure that can be viewed as alternatively stacked ferromagnetic and antiferromagnetic tetrahedra in a three-dimensional checkerboard form. Stable coexistence of these opposing types of clusters is enabled by the bipartite breathing pyrochlore crystal structure, leading to a second-order phase transition at 10 K. The diffraction intensity of ZnFe2O4 is an exact complement to the inelastic scattering intensity of several chromate spinel systems which are regarded as model classical spin liquids. Our results challenge this attribution, and suggest instead of the six-spin ring mode, spin excitations in chromate spinels are closely related to the (1,0,12) type of spin order and the four-spin ferromagnetic cluster locally at one tetrahedron.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Gluelump masses and mass splittings from SU(3) lattice gauge theory
Authors: Herr Jannis , Schlosser Carolin , Wagner Marc
Published: February 2024

We compute gluelump masses and mass differences using SU(3) lattice gauge theory. We study states with total angular momentum up to J=3, parity P=+,−, and charge conjugation C=+,−. Computations on four ensembles with rather fine lattice spacings in the range from 0.040 to 0.093 fm allow continuum extrapolations of gluelump mass differences. We complement existing results on hybrid static potentials with the obtained gluelump masses, which represent the limit of vanishing quark-antiquark separation. We also discuss the conversion of lattice gluelump masses to the renormalon subtracted scheme, which is e.g. important for studies of heavy hybrid mesons in the Born-Oppenheimer approximation.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Control variates for lattice field theory
Authors: Bhattacharya Tanmoy , Lawrence Scott , Yoo Jun-Sik
Published: February 2024

In most lattice field theories, correlators are plagued by a signal-to-noise problem of exponential difficulty in the time separation. We propose a method for improving the signal-to-noise ratio, in which control variates are systematically constructed from lattice Schwinger-Dyson relations. The method is demonstrated on various two-dimensional lattices in scalar field theory, and a strategy for scaling to larger systems is explored.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Dielectric spectroscopy of ferroelectric nematic liquid crystals: Measuring the capacitance of insulating interfacial layers
Authors: Clark Noel A. , Chen Xi , MacLennan Joseph E. , Glaser Matthew A.
Published: February 2024

Numerous measurements of the dielectric constant ɛ of the recently discovered ferroelectric nematic (NF) liquid crystal (LC) phase report extraordinarily large values of ɛ′ (up to ∼30 000) in the NF phase. We show that what is in fact being measured in such experiments is the high capacitance of the nonferroelectric, interfacial, insulating layers of nanoscale thickness that bound the NF material in typical cells. Polarization reorientation as a linear response to AC electric field drive renders the NF layer effectively electrically conductive, exhibiting low resistance that enables the charging of the interfacial capacitors. We analyze the commonly employed parallel-plate cell filled with NF material of high polarization , oriented parallel to the plates at zero applied voltage. Minimization of the dominant electrostatic energy renders spatially uniform and orients the polarization to make the electric field in the NF as small as possible, a condition under which the voltage applied to the cell appears almost entirely across the high-capacity interfacial layers. This coupling of orientation and charge creates a combined polarization-external capacitance (PCG) Goldstone reorientation mode requiring applied voltages orders of magnitude smaller than that of the NF layer alone to effectively transport charge across the NF layer. The NF layer acts as a low-value resistor, and the interfacial capacitors act as reversible energy storage reservoirs, lowering the restoring force (mass) of the PCG mode and producing strong reactive dielectric behavior. Analysis of data from a variety of experiments on ferroelectric LCs (chiral smectics C, bent-core smectics, and the NF phase) supports the PCG model, showing that deriving dielectric constants from electrical impedance measurements of high-polarization ferroelectric LCs, without properly accounting for the self-screening effects of polarization charge and the capacitive contributions of interfacial layers, can result in overestimation of the ɛ′ values of the LC by many orders of magnitude.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Antecedents of students' intention to be sustainable accountants: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Ratnaningsih Stephana Dyah Ayu , Ghozali Imam , Harto Puji
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to examine Indonesian accounting students’ intention to become sustainable accountants (ISAs) using a modified theory of reasoning action model.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were collected from 239 respondents from five reputable universities in Semarang, Indonesia, using a structured questionnaire. A random sampling technique was employed and used in selecting respondents. The data were then analyzed using smart PLS (version 3.2.9) to obtain the final results.

Findings

The results show university sustainability (US) and attitudes toward sustainability (ATS) affect students' intentions to become ISAs. Knowledge has no direct correlation with students' intention to become ISAs. Path analysis shows a significant correlation between US and students' knowledge, attitudes and intentions regarding sustainability.

Originality/value

This is different from previous studies, which only focused on factors influencing students' intentions to pay attention to sustainability. This study focuses on prospective accountants because, in the future, they will be the technical executors of reporting using path analysis. This study further analyzes the relationship between existing antecedent variables. The results show that sustainability at the university is a variable that can influence all other variables.
The impact of subjective consumer knowledge on consumer behavioral loyalty through psychological involvement and perceived service quality: sports clubs
Authors: Hu Jianping , Ye Xinjiang , Gu Shengyu
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The study advances an enhanced model encompassing psychological involvement, denoted as the psychological continuum model (PCM) and perceived customer service quality as intermediaries in the association between subjective customer knowledge (SCK) and behavioral loyalty. The purpose of this study is to assess the mediating role of psychological engagement and consumers' perceived service quality in the relationship between SCK and behavioral loyalty among members of nonprofit sports service organizations. Additionally, the study aims to examine the impact of membership duration on the relationship between consumer knowledge and behavioral loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a quantitative research design, and primary data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 527 members of nonprofit Chinese sports clubs who were selected using a simple random sampling technique. A 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was developed to measure all constructs in the intended research model. The suitability of the measurement model was analyzed by performing confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data using AMOS-24.

Findings

The results of the overall direct effect indicate a significant influence of subjective knowledge on perceived service quality, perceived service quality significantly and positively influences psychological engagement; psychological engagement was found to be an important predictor of consumer behavioral loyalty.

Originality/value

The results offer information for nonprofit sports club (NPSC) managers who seek to increase the attractiveness and retention of their clubs' members by establishing the importance of subjective consumer knowledge.
Industry 4.0 as an enabler of sustainability for small and medium enterprises
Authors: Santos André de Mendonça , Becker Adriano Machado , Ayala Néstor Fabian , Sant’Anna Ângelo Márcio Oliveira
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate the potential impact of Industry 4.0 (I4.0) digital technologies on promoting sustainability in small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within developing economies such as Brazil. Additionally, we present a comprehensive framework that consolidates this correlation.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research was conducted through semi-structured interviews with leaders of SMEs to identify the specific challenges in achieving sustainability. Additionally, interviews were conducted with technology provider firms to evaluate the existing solutions available to SMEs. The interview results were analyzed, and technological solutions were proposed through a focus group session involving four experts in I4.0. These proposed solutions were then compared with the offerings provided by the technology providers. Based on this, a second round of meetings was conducted to gather feedback from the SMEs.

Findings

The findings of this study confirm the feasibility of implementing I4.0 and sustainable practices in SMEs. However, it is crucial to tailor the technologies to the specific circumstances of SMEs. The study presents propositions on how specific applications of technology can address the economic, environmental and social demands of SMEs. Furthermore, a framework is proposed, emphasizing the integration of smart technologies as essential components across sustainability dimensions.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant contribution to the current body of literature as it pioneers the examination of the relationship between I4.0 technologies and sustainability, focusing specifically on SMEs in a developing country context.
Sustainability drivers of fast-moving consumer goods supply chains: a multi-method study
Authors: Prashar Anupama , Sunder M. Vijaya
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study responds to the calls from the literature on identifying interactions among the sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) drivers, which influence focal firms’ SSCM decisions. It also determines how the effect of SSCM drivers differs across the upstream and downstream supply chains (SCs) entities of fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) companies.

Design/methodology/approach

We employ a multi-method design encompassing three studies: study 1 (multiple-case study), study 2 (quantitative survey), and study 3 (multiple-criteria decision-making or MCDM modeling).

Findings

The results show that the external drivers such as customer pressure, competition, and supplier pressure and internal drivers such as top management commitment interact to influence the adoption of SSCM practices, and this interaction is diverse across upstream and downstream SC entities of the FMCG sector. The study provides empirical evidence of relationships among the SSCM drivers, which influence SSCM decisions.

Originality/value

Understanding these interactions will help managers derive strategies to manage the overall SSCM ecosystem and recognize the multiplier effects of upstream to downstream and vice versa.
Occupational health risk assessment of PC production-caused pollution based on damage assessment and cyclic mitigation model
Authors: Dong Zhiyu , Qin Ruize , Zou Ping , Yao Xin , Cui Peng , Zhang Fan , Yang Yizhou
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The occupational health risk associated with the production of prefabricated concrete components is often overlooked. This paper will use a damage assessment and cyclic mitigation (DACM) model to provide individualized exposure risk assessment and corresponding mitigation management measures for workers who are being exposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The DACM model is proposed based on the concept of life cycle assessment (LCA). The model uses Monte-Carlo simulation for uncertainty risk assessment, followed by quantitative damage assessment using disability-adjusted life year (DALY). Lastly, sensitivity analysis is used to identify the parameters with the greatest impact on health risks.

Findings

The results show that the dust concentration is centered around the mean, and the fitting results are close to normal distribution, so the mean value can be used to carry out the calculation of risk. However, calculations using the DACM model revealed that there are still some work areas at risk. DALY damage is most severe in concrete production area. Meanwhile, the inhalation rate (IR), exposure duration (ED), exposure frequency (EF) and average exposure time (AT) showed greater impacts based on the sensitivity analysis.

Originality/value

Based on the comparison, the DACM model can determine that the potential occupational health risk of prefabricated concrete component (PC) factory and the risk is less than that of on-site construction. It synthesizes field research and simulation to form the entire assessment process into a case-base system with the depth of the cycle, which allows the model to be continuously adjusted to reduce the occupational health damage caused by production pollution exposure.
Inequality beneath the surface: a Belgian case study on structural discrimination in the workplace and the role of organizational structure, culture and policies
Authors: De Coninck David , Verhulst Laure
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The context of a long-standing research tradition, discrimination has emerged as a critical factor contributing to inequalities within the labor market. While existing studies have primarily focused on overt discrimination during the recruitment and selection process, influenced by biases, attitudes, or stereotypes, there remains a significant knowledge gap regarding discrimination within the workplace and its underlying structural dimensions. This article aims to address this gap by examining the impact of organizational culture, structure and policies on workplace discrimination, with a particular emphasis on women and ethnic minorities.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing a case study strategy centered around a Belgian branch of a multinational professional service agency, data was gathered through ten semi-structured in-depth interviews conducted with employees representing various organizational levels.

Findings

The findings reveal that organizational culture, structure and policies may pose inherent risks in perpetuating discrimination throughout individuals' professional trajectories. Furthermore, it becomes apparent that, albeit often unconscious, these elements exhibit biases against women and ethnic minorities.

Social implications

Given the unintentional nature of structural discrimination, it is crucial to foster increased awareness and understanding of these dynamics.

Originality/value

The originality of this research article lies in its focus on addressing a critical knowledge gap in the existing research tradition on discrimination in the labor market. While previous studies have primarily concentrated on overt discrimination during recruitment and selection, this article delves into the often overlooked area of discrimination within the workplace itself. It explores the intricate interplay of organizational culture, structure and policies in perpetuating discrimination, particularly against women and ethnic minorities. By utilizing a case study approach within a multinational professional service agency in Belgium, the research uncovers hidden biases and unconscious elements contributing to structural discrimination. This emphasis on understanding unintentional discrimination adds a novel dimension to the discourse on workplace inequalities.
The impact of the knowledge economy on the financing constraints of firms: within and between country effects
Authors: Mertzanis Charilaos , Houcine Asma
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study employs firm-level data to evaluate how the knowledge economy impacts the financing constraints of businesses across 106 low- and middle-income nations, focusing on the influence of technological transformation on corporate financing choices.

Design/methodology/approach

The research centers on privately held, unlisted firms and examines the distinct effects of knowledge at both the within-country and between-country levels using a panel dataset. Rigorous sensitivity and endogeneity analyses are conducted to ensure the reliability of the findings.

Findings

The findings indicate that greater levels of the knowledge economy correlate with reduced financing constraints for firms. However, this effect varies depending on the location within a country and across different geographical regions. Firms situated in larger urban centers and more innovative regions reap the most significant benefits from the knowledge economy when seeking external funding. Conversely, firms in smaller cities, rural areas and regions characterized by structural and institutional inefficiencies in knowledge generation experience fewer advantages.

Originality/value

The impact of knowledge exhibits variability not only within and among countries but also between poor and affluent developing nations, as well as between larger and smaller countries. The knowledge effect on firms' access to external finance is influenced by factors such as financial openness and development, educational quality, technological absorption capabilities and agglomeration conditions within each country.
SMEs’ innovation and government support during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Nguyen Hang Thu , Vu Tra Thi Dan , Nguyen Hiep Manh , Nguyen Dung Bui Phuong
Published: February 2024

Purpose

There is a need for research examining how governments and firms responded to the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic. This study investigates the interdependence between governments and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) during the pandemic in relation to the dynamic capabilities and resource dependence theories.

Design/methodology/approach

We use World Bank survey data collected immediately before and after the COVID-19 outbreak and a generalized structural equation model to examine the mediating role of government support in the relationship between firm innovation, resilience and survival.

Findings

Innovative SMEs exhibited higher resilience and a better chance of survival during the pandemic, partly due to attracting more government support.

Originality/value

This study offers a novel understanding of the government’s role in supporting innovative SMEs during the pandemic. The findings have implications for how government support policies can limit the deadweight effect and the substitution effect.
Financial performance response of manufacturers to servitization: curvilinear relationship mediated by service business focus and moderated by digital technology application
Authors: Liu Beini , Li Zhenyan , Fu Yaoyao
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Servitization of products is becoming increasingly prevalent among manufacturing enterprises. Existing research has primarily focused on exploring whether the direct impact of servitization on manufacturer performance follows a linear or a curvilinear relationship. However, the understanding of the underlying mechanisms between servitization and manufacturer financial performance remains limited. This paper aims to examine the non-linear relationship between servitization and manufacturer performance as well as the mediating process and boundary condition associated with this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on resource-advantage theory, this paper proposes a theoretical model of the U-shaped relationship between servitization and the financial performance of equipment manufacturers. Panel data of 248 listed equipment manufacturers in China during the period of 2010–2020 are used to test each hypothesis through the ordinary least square method.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that servitization follows a U-shaped relationship with service business focus and the financial performance of equipment manufacturers. Service business focus mediates this U-shaped relationship between servitization and financial performance, and digital technology application moderates this relationship.

Originality/value

This paper pioneers the unraveling of the potential mechanism that can explain the curvilinear relationship between servitization of manufacturers and financial performance. This mechanism is the focus of the service business, which is theoretically delineated and empirically tested. Furthermore, digital technology application enables manufacturers to achieve service business focus more effectively in the process of servitization. Thus, this study addresses the call for research on digital servitization.
Using learning analytics to alleviate course and student support administrative load for large classes: a case study
Authors: Honson Vanessa , Vu Thuy , Tran Tich Phuoc , Tejada Estay Walter
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Large class sizes are becoming the norm in higher education against concerns of dropping learning qualities. To maintain the standard of learning and add value, one of the common strategies is for the course convenor to proactively monitor student engagement with learning activities against their assessment outcomes and intervene timely. Learning analytics has been increasingly adopted to provide these insights into student engagement and their performance. This case study explores how learning analytics can be used to meet the convenor’s requirements and help reduce administrative workload in a large health science class at the University of New South Wales.

Design/methodology/approach

This case-based study adopts an “action learning research approach” in assessing ways of using learning analytics for reducing workload in the educator’s own context and critically reflecting on experiences for improvements. This approach emphasises reflexive methodology, where the educator constantly assesses the context, implements an intervention and reflects on the process for in-time adjustments, improvements and future development.

Findings

The results highlighted ease for the teacher towards the early “flagging” of students who may not be active within the learning management system or who have performed poorly on assessment tasks. Coupled with the ability to send emails to the “flagged” students, this has led to a more personal approach while reducing the number of steps normally required. An unanticipated outcome was the potential for additional time saving through improving the scaffolding mechanisms if the learning analytics were customisable for individual courses.

Originality/value

The results provide further benefits for learning analytics to assist the educator in a growing blended learning environment. They also reveal the potential for learning analytics to be an effective adjunct towards promoting personal learning design.
Unveiling ChatGPT in tourism education: exploring perceptions, advantages and recommendations from educators
Authors: Altun Ozlem , Saydam Mehmet Bahri , Karatepe Tuna , Dima Ştefana Maria
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Following the remarkable debut of ChatGPT and its rapid adoption by a global audience since its launch in November 2022, this study delves into educators' perceptions of ChatGPT within the specialized domains of tourism and hospitality education. While acknowledging ChatGPT’s swift rise and advanced capabilities, this research aims to comprehensively explore educators' perspectives, advantages and concerns regarding its integration into academic settings.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was utilized to reveal dominant themes from in-depth, semi-structured face-to-face interviews with twenty lecturers in tourism faculties in North Cyprus. Collected responses from respondents were subjected to analysis using Leximancer software.

Findings

Our analysis unearthed seven significant themes encapsulating educators' perceptions of ChatGPT: 1 – “reliability and accuracy concerns”; 2 – “dependency”; 3 – “student engagement”; 4 – “ethical considerations”; 5 – “time efficiency and productivity”; 6 – “teacher-student interaction” and 7 – “learning flexibility”. Noteworthy positive perceptions emerged regarding “student engagement,” “time efficiency and productivity,” and “learning flexibility.”

Originality/value

This study contributes to the originality of research by addressing the underexplored aspect of educators' perceptions of ChatGPT within the domains of tourism and hospitality education, shedding light on its potential implications, advantages and drawbacks in a specialized educational context. Furthermore, it aims to offer insights into educators' recommendations for the effective incorporation of ChatGPT technologies into this specific educational setting, filling a crucial gap in understanding the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in specialized fields of study.
Pro‐market Institutions and the Degree of Hybridity in Startup Social Ventures: The Moderating Effects of Organizational Activities
Authors: Liu Zhiyang , Xu Liping , Jia Fu , Zhuang Xinhe
Published: February 2024

As a departure from previous research that takes social ventures as a distinct organizational type, this study investigates the relationship between the pro‐market institutions in a country and the degree of hybridity in social ventures, focusing on the dimension of organizational goals. Additionally, it examines the contingent effects of organizational activities, such as the novelty of market offering and the implementation of social performance measurement. Combining Global Entrepreneurship Monitor data in 2009 and 2015 with other cross‐national databases, we test our theoretical predictions using 3648 startup social ventures across 42 countries. We find that pro‐market institutions have an inverted U‐shaped effect on the degree of hybridity in social ventures. Furthermore, the novelty of market offering and social performance measurement attenuate the impact of pro‐market institutions on organizational hybridity by shifting the inverted U‐shape to relatively negative and linear. Through this cross‐level empirical exploration, we develop a richer explanation of organizational hybridity and contribute to the growing literature on social ventures and hybrid organizations.
Unveiling the influence of environmental taxes, socioeconomic conditions, renewable energy, and financial globalization on environmental sustainability
Authors: Ahmed Zahoor , Pata Ugur Korkut
Published: February 2024

The augmented resource consumption, higher demand for resources, and limited supply promote a major resource crisis in a number of the largest economies. This crisis upsurges the ecological footprint (EF) augmenting the process of resource depletion and enhancing ecological degradation. Against this backdrop, this investigation aims to apprehend the interplay between environmental policy, socioeconomic conditions (SEC), financial globalization (FG), renewable energy (RN), and the EF within the top 10 economies. Driven by their massive economic growth, the top 10 economies have become entangled in a vicious cycle of resource consumption and environmental degradation. To understand these relationships, the Method of Moments Quantile Regression (MM‐QR) is adopted, which helps to identify the impacts of regressors on EF from 2000 to 2021. The findings of this analysis denote that environmental taxes (ETX) reduce the EF in the context of top economies without much variation. RN bolsters reductions in the EF, displaying an escalating impact that ranges from the 10th to the 90th quantiles. FG reduces the EF across various quantiles, with its effects stimulating from lower to upper quantiles. The findings did not reveal any statistically significant effects of SEC on the EF. Additionally, the study observed a U‐shaped relationship between EF and economic growth, indicating a potential escalation of environmental issues with further development in the upcoming years. The study provides in‐depth policy directions for increasing the utilization of renewables and enhancing the FG to enhance environmental sustainability.
The antibacterial mechanism of (−)‐epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) against Campylobacter jejuni through transcriptome profiling
Authors: Lin Yilin , Liang Siwei , Zhang Yehui , Yu Yigang
Published: February 2024

(−)‐Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) has been shown antibacterial activity against Campylobacter jejuni; however, the relevant antibacterial mechanism is unknown. In this study, phenotypic experiments and RNA sequencing were used to explore the antibacterial mechanism. The minimum inhibitory concentration of EGCG on C. jejuni was 32 µg/mL. EGCG‐treated was able to increase intracellular reactive oxygen species levels and decline bacterial motility. The morphology and cell membrane of C. jejuni after EGCG treatment were observed collapsed, broken, and agglomerated by field emission scanning electron microscopy and fluorescent microscopy. The RNA‐seq analysis presents that there are 36 and 72 differential expressed genes after C. jejuni was treated by EGCG with the concentration of 16 and 32 µg/mL, respectively. EGCG‐treated increased the thioredoxin expression, which was a critical protein to resist oxidative stress. Moreover, downregulation of the flgH and flgM gene in flagellin biosynthesis of C. jejuni was able to impair the flagella, reducing cell motility and virulence. The primary antibacterial mechanism revealed by RNA‐seq is that EGCG with iron‐chelating activity competes with C. jejuni for iron, causing iron deficiency in C. jejuni, which potentially impacts the survival and virulence of C. jejuni. The results suggested a new direction for exploring the activity of EGCG against C. jejuni in the food industry.

Practical Application

A deeper understanding of the antibacterial mechanism of EGCG against C. jejuni was more beneficial in improving the food safety, eliminating concerns about human health caused by C. jejuni in future food, and promoting the natural antibacterial agent EGCG application in the food industry.
Effects of extrusion screw speed, feed moisture content, and barrel temperature on the physical, techno‐functional, and microstructural quality of texturized lentil protein
Authors: Singh Ravinder , Guerrero Maria , Nickerson Michael T. , Koksel Filiz
Published: February 2024

Utilizing lentil protein as a novel ingredient for producing texturized vegetable proteins (TVPs) can provide new opportunities for the production of next‐generation hybrid meat products. TVPs from lentil protein isolate were manufactured using low‐moisture extrusion cooking at different combinations of screw speed (SS), feed moisture content (MC), and barrel temperature (BT) profile. In total, seven different combinations of processing treatments were tested, and the resulting TVPs were characterized for their physical (rehydration ratio, texture profile analysis, color, and bulk density), techno‐functional (oil and water holding capacities), and microstructural properties. The processing conditions of higher SS and lower MC resulted in increased values of several textural profile attributes (springiness, cohesiveness, and resilience), increased water holding capacity (WHC), and decreased bulk density. Compared to raw lentil protein, TVPs showed enhanced oil holding capacity, though WHC either decreased or remained constant. The extrusion response parameters (die pressure, torque, and specific mechanical energy) showed positive correlations with several physical properties (texture, WHC, and total color change), revealing their potential for serving as important TVP quality indicators. TVPs produced at SS, MC, and BT of 450 rpm, 30%, and 140°C, respectively, showed relatively better overall physical and techno‐functional quality and can be used as meat extenders in hybrid meat patties. Overall, this research evidenced the viability of lentil protein as a potential ingredient for producing low‐moisture TVPs.
Metabolomic profiling of the nutritional components of chicory leaves following heat processing
Authors: Kobayashi Wataru , Tomizawa Ayumi , Kurawaka Misaki , Abe Masako , Watanabe Akio , Ayabe Sonoko
Published: February 2024

Chicory (Cichorium intybus L.; witloof) is a crisp bitter leafy vegetable, popularly used in western cuisine in salads and soups (leaves) and as an alternative to coffee (roasted roots). In this study, we explored the effect of heat processing under various temperatures and for different durations on the nutritional composition of chicory leaves using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC/MS) and principal component analysis (PCA). “Vintor” chicory leaves were processed and homogenized to obtain lyophilized samples, and their moisture content and pH were measured. Heat processing was conducted at 4, 30, 60, and 100°C. Metabolites were extracted and analyzed using GC/MS. The results were statistically analyzed using multiple t‐tests and Tukey–Kramer method. A PCA was conducted using standardized data. A lower temperature (≤60°C) positively influenced the concentrations of nutritional components (sugars, free amino acids, and organic acids), branched‐chain amino acids (which reportedly improve exercise performance), and γ‐aminobutyric acid (which exerts antihypertensive effects). Whereas, a higher temperature (100°C) and microwave processing induced the generation of low‐molecular‐weight sugars from polysaccharides and glycosides, decreased free amino acid concentrations, and caused heat‐induced aminocarbonyl reactions. This study provides valuable information for enhancing the flavor profiles and potential health benefits of chicory leaves by identifying the optimal heat processing parameters for preserving the desired nutritional value.

Practical Application

The palatability, nutritional content, and health benefits of chicory have been evaluated based on its inherent constituents, but changes in these parameters during food processing remain unclear. Heating at 30 and 60°C activated secondary metabolism in chicory, increasing the amino acid and organic acid concentrations, whereas heating at 100°C and microwave processing increased the sugar concentrations in chicory. Thus, the nutritional value and potential health benefits of chicory could be enhanced by processing it under controlled temperatures; the findings are valuable for both consumers and food processing industry.
Botrytis cinerea type II inhibitor of apoptosis BcBIR1 enhances the biocontrol capacity of Coniothyrium minitans
Authors: Wu Jianing , Xin Ruolong , Jiang Yachan , Jin Huanan , Liu Hao , Zhang Hongxiang , Jiang Daohong , Fu Yanping , Xie Jiatao , Cheng Jiasen , Lin Yang
Published: February 2024

Apoptosis‐like programmed cell death is associated with fungal development, ageing, pathogenicity and stress responses. Here, to explore the potential of Botrytis cinerea type II inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) BcBIR1 in elevating the biocontrol efficacy of Coniothyrium minitans, the BcBIR1 gene was heterologously expressed in C. minitans. Results indicated that the strains expressing BcBIR1 had higher rates of conidiation, mycelial growth and biomass growth than the wild‐type strain. Moreover, BcBIR1 was found to inhibit apoptosis, indicating its role as an IAP in C. minitans. Under various abiotic stresses, the growth rates of BcBIR1‐expressing strains were significantly higher than that of the wild‐type strain. Moreover, the conidial survival rate of the BcBIR1‐expressing strains treated with ultraviolet irradiation was enhanced. In antifungal activity assay, the culture filtrates of BcBIR1‐expressing strains displayed a stronger inhibitory effect on B. cinerea and Sclerotinia sclerotiorum than the wild‐type strain. The study also found that BcBIR1 expression increased the mycoparasitism against the sclerotia, but not the hyphae of S. sclerotiorum. Taken together, these results suggest that BcBIR1 enhances vegetative growth, conidiation, anti‐apoptosis activity, abiotic stress resistance, antifungal activity and mycoparasitism in C. minitans. As an IAP, BcBIR1 may improve the control capacity of C. minitans against S. sclerotiorum.
Fermented foods, their microbiome and its potential in boosting human health
Authors: Valentino Vincenzo , Magliulo Raffaele , Farsi Dominic , Cotter Paul D. , O'Sullivan Orla , Ercolini Danilo , De Filippis Francesca
Published: February 2024

Fermented foods (FFs) are part of the cultural heritage of several populations, and their production dates back 8000 years. Over the last ~150 years, the microbial consortia of many of the most widespread FFs have been characterised, leading in some instances to the standardisation of their production. Nevertheless, limited knowledge exists about the microbial communities of local and traditional FFs and their possible effects on human health. Recent findings suggest they might be a valuable source of novel probiotic strains, enriched in nutrients and highly sustainable for the environment. Despite the increasing number of observational studies and randomised controlled trials, it still remains unclear whether and how regular FF consumption is linked with health outcomes and enrichment of the gut microbiome in health‐associated species. This review aims to sum up the knowledge about traditional FFs and their associated microbiomes, outlining the role of fermentation with respect to boosting nutritional profiles and attempting to establish a link between FF consumption and health‐beneficial outcomes.