bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational flow cytometry immunophenotyping at diagnosis is unable to predict relapse in childhood B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Martínez-Rubio Álvaro , Chulián Salvador , Niño-López Ana , Picón-González Rocío , Rodríguez Gutiérrez Juan F. , Gálvez de la Villa Eva , Caballero Velázquez Teresa , Molinos Quintana Águeda , Robleda Ana Castillo , Ramírez Orellana Manuel , Martínez Sánchez María Victoria , Minguela Puras Alfredo , Fuster Soler José Luis , Blázquez Goñi Cristina , Pérez-García Víctor M. , Rosa María
Published: April 2024

B-cell Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia is the most prevalent form of childhood cancer, with approximately 15% of patients undergoing relapse after initial treatment. Further advancements depend on novel therapies and more precise risk stratification criteria. In the context of computational flow cytometry and machine learning, this paper aims to explore the potential prognostic value of flow cytometry data at diagnosis, a relatively unexplored direction for relapse prediction in this disease. To this end, we collected a dataset of 252 patients from three hospitals and implemented a comprehensive pipeline for multicenter data integration, feature extraction, and patient classification, comparing the results with existing algorithms from the literature. The analysis revealed no significant differences in immunophenotypic patterns between relapse and non-relapse patients and suggests the need for alternative approaches to handle flow cytometry data in relapse prediction.
The Probability of Reducing Hospitalization Rates for Bronchiolitis: A Bayesian Analysis
Authors: Dong Larry , Klassen Terry P. , Johnson David W. , Correll Rhonda , Gouin Serge , Bhatt Maala , Patel Hema , Joubert Gary , Black Karen J. L. , Turner Troy W. S. , Whitehouse Sandra R. , Plint Amy C. , Heath Anna
Published: April 2024

Structured Abstract

Background

Bronchiolitis exerts a high burden on children, their families and the healthcare system. The Canadian Bronchiolitis Epinephrine Steroid Trial (CanBEST) assessed whether administering epinephrine alone, dexamethasone alone, or in combination (EpiDex) could reduce bronchiolitis-related hospitalizations among children less than 12 months of age compared to placebo. CanBEST demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in 7-day hospitalization risk with EpiDex in an unadjusted analysis but not after adjustment.

Objective

To explore the probability that EpiDex results in a reduction in hospitalizations using Bayesian methods.

Study Design

Using prior distributions that represent varying levels of preexisting enthusiasm or skepticism and information about the treatment effectbeforedata were collected, the Bayesian distribution of the relative risk of hospitalization compared to placebo was determined. The probability that the treatment effect is less 1, 0.9, 0.8 and 0.6, indicating increasing reductions in hospitalization risk, are computed alongside 95% credible intervals.

Results

Combining a minimally informative prior distribution with the data from CanBEST provides comparable results to the original analysis. Unless strongly skeptical views about the effectiveness of EpiDex were considered, the 95% credible interval for the treatment effect lies below 1, indicating a reduction in hospitalizations. There is a 90% probability that EpiDex results in a clinically meaningful reduction in hospitalization of 10% even when incorporating skeptical views, with a 67% probability when considering strongly skeptical views.

Conclusion

A Bayesian analysis demonstrates a high chance that EpiDex reduces hospitalization rates for bronchiolitis, although strongly skeptical individuals may require additional evidence to change practice.
Concurrent validity and discriminative ability of force plate measures of balance during the sub-acute stage of stroke recovery
Authors: Aryan Raabeae , Patterson Kara K. , Inness Elizabeth L. , Mochizuki George , Mansfield Avril
Published: April 2024

Background

Many objective measures of balance control, including force plate measures of standing balance, lack sufficient validation for use in the stroke population.

Research questions

Do force plate measures of quiet standing balance during the sub-acute stage of stroke recovery have concurrent validity (i.e., correlate with functional balance measures) and discriminative ability (i.e., differentiate fallers from non-fallers and/or those with low-moderate versus high risk of falling)?

Methods

Participants completed one trial of quiet standing with eyes open, lasting for 30 seconds. Mean speeds of centre of pressure along the anterior-posterior and medial-lateral axes, weight-bearing asymmetry, and symmetry index were calculated. Concurrent validity of these measures were established against the Berg Balance Scale; their abilities in differentiating fallers from non-fallers, and individuals with low-moderate versus high risk of falling were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating curve (AUC).

Results

Among the measures studied, mean speed of centre of pressure along the anterior-posterior axis demonstrated the strongest correlation with the Berg Balance Scale (ρ=-0.430, p-value=0.01). Weight-bearing asymmetry showed the highest ability in differentiating fallers from non-fallers (AUC= 0.69), as well as individuals with low-moderate versus high risk of falling (AUC= 0.66).

Significance

Our findings suggest that speed of centre of pressure along the anterior-posterior axis, and weight-bearing asymmetry are valid for use in the sub-acute stage of stroke recovery. These validated measures can better inform rehabilitation practice about the ability of upright standing balance following a stroke.
Pharmacodynamic effects of semorinemab on plasma and CSF biomarkers of Alzheimer’s disease pathophysiology
Authors: Schauer Stephen , Toth Balazs , Lee Julie , Honigberg Lee A. , Ramakrishnan Vidya , Jiang Jenny , Kollmorgen Gwendlyn , Bayfield Anna , Wild Norbert , Hoffman Jennifer , Ceniceros Ryan , Dolton Michael , Bohorquez Sandra Sanabria , Hoogenraad Casper C. , Wildsmith Kristin R. , Teng Edmond , Monteiro Cecilia , Anania Veronica , Yeh Felix L.
Published: April 2024

INTRODUCTION

Semorinemab, an anti-tau monoclonal antibody, was evaluated in two Phase II trials as a disease-modifying treatment for Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples were collected from trial participants to evaluate the pharmacodynamic effects of semorinemab and elucidate its mechanism of action.

METHODS

Qualified immunoassays were used to measure plasma and CSF biomarkers of tau, amyloidosis, glial activity, neuroinflammation, synaptic function, and neurodegeneration from participants enrolled in the Tauriel (NCT03289143) and Lauriet (NCT03828747) Phase II trials in prodromal-to-mild (P2M) and mild-to-moderate (M2M) AD.

RESULTS

Significant increases in plasma phosphorylated Tau 181 (pTau181) and CSF Chitinase-3-like protein 1 (YKL-40) followed administration of semorinemab in both studies. In the Lauriet study, plasma glial fibrillary protein (GFAP) levels rose progressively over the study period in the placebo group, but remained stable over time with the administration of semorinemab. In contrast, this was not observed in the Tauriel study. Semorinemab had no consistent impact on other biomarkers of AD pathophysiology that were evaluated.

DISCUSSION

Semorinemab engages and stabilizes plasma pTau181 in a manner consistent with previously reported data [1,2], and levels do not decrease after prolonged drug exposure. Increases to CSF YKL-40 suggest that semorinemab may stimulate microglia activation, while stabilization of plasma GFAP levels in Lauriet participants indicate that semorinemab may moderate reactive gliosis in M2M AD.
A novel dual-excitation pulse-amplitude-modulation fluorometer for investigating photosynthesis of plants
Authors: Havelka Martin , Nedbal Ladislav , Suhling Klaus , Nedbal Jakub
Published: April 2024

A modular instrument was developed to measure the fluorescence yield in plants subject to a combination of two harmonically-oscillating blue lights with independently controlled frequencies and phases.It uses the pulse-amplitude-modulation (PAM) method to measure the fluorescence yield independently of the plant irradiance. Compared to existing commercial instruments, it uses a higher measuring frequency (≈ 60 kHz) and higher measuring flash irradiance. This enables averaging over a number of subsequent measurement data points to achieve a higher signal-to-noise ratio. The manuscript describes the design, testing, and characterization of the operational limits of the instrument. It identifies its current weaknesses and makes recommendations for improvements. It is accompanied by supplementary materials containing the electronic schematics and the source code. The instrument was used to study a plant response to a mixture of two oscillating lights. It resulted in an excellent signal-to-noise ratio of the measured fluorescent yield. The measurements clearly demonstrated that the fluorescence yield of a plant subject to a combination of two harmonically-oscillating lights is not the same as the sum of the responses to the two oscillating lights applied independently. The observed non-linearity leads to the important conclusion that the time- and frequency-domain cannot be connected by a Fourier transform. Therefore, the frequency-domain approach will yield novel information that is not redundant to the well-established time-domain measurements.
Identifying and quantifying the contribution of maize plant traits to nitrogen uptake and use through plant modelling
Authors: Lu Jie , Stomph Tjeerd Jan , Mi Guohua , Yuan Lixing , Evers Jochem
Published: April 2024

Breeding for high nitrogen use efficient crops can contribute to maintaining or even increasing yield with less nitrogen. Nitrogen use is co-determined by N uptake and physiological use efficiency (PE, biomass per unit of N taken up), to which soil processes as well as plant architectural, physiological and developmental traits contribute. The relative contribution of these crop traits to N use is not well known but relevant to identify breeding targets in important crop species like maize. To quantify the contribution of component plant traits to maize N uptake and use, we used a functional-structural plant model. We evaluated the effect of varying both shoot and root traits on crop N uptake across a range of nitrogen levels. Root architectural traits were found to play a more important role in root N uptake than physiological traits. Phyllochron determined the structure of the shoot through changes in source: sink ratio over time which, in interaction with light and temperature, resulted in a significant effect on PE and N uptake. Photosynthesis traits were more relevant to biomass accumulation rather than yield, especially under high nitrogen conditions. The traits identified in this study are potential targets in maize breeding for improved crop N uptake and use.

Highlight

Our research provides insight into the relevance of a range of traits for maize N uptake and N use, and identifies several potential target traits based on underlying mechanisms to assist maize breeding.
Seed tuber microbiome is a predictor of next-season potato vigor
Authors: Song Yang , Atza Elisa , Sanchez Gil Juan J. , Akkermans Doretta , de Jonge Ronnie , de Rooij Peter G.H. , Kakembo David , Bakker Peter A.H.M. , Pieterse Corné M.J. , Budko Neil V. , Berendsen Roeland L.
Published: April 2024

Potato vigor, an important agronomic trait, is heavily influenced by the field of seed tuber production. Soil microbiota vary significantly between fields, impacting plant health and crop yield. Our study demonstrates that seed potato vigor can be predicted based on microbiota associated with seed tuber eyes, the dormant buds that grow out in the next season. By combining time-resolved drone-imaging of potato crop development with microbiome sequencing of seed tuber eyes from 6 varieties produced in 240 fields, we established correlations between microbiome fingerprints and potato vigor parameters. Employing Random Forest algorithms, we developed a predictive “Potato-Microbiome Informed” model, revealing variety-specific relationships between seed tuber microbiome composition and next season’s potato vigor in trial fields. The model accurately predicted vigor of seed tubers to which the model was naïve and pinpointed key microbial indicators of potato vigor. By connecting variety-specific microbiome fingerprints to crop performance in the field, we pave the way for microbiome-informed breeding strategies.
Genetic variants associated with longevity in long-living Indians
Authors: Pemmasani Sandhya Kiran , Shakthiraju R G , Suraj V , Bhattacharya Raunaq , Patel Chetan , Gupta Anil Kumar , Acharya Anuradha
Published: April 2024

Genetic factors play a significant role in determining an individual’s longevity. The present study was aimed at identifying the genetic variants associated with longevity in Indian population. Long living individuals (LLIs), aged 85+, were compared with younger controls, aged 18-49 years, using data from GenomegaDB, a genetic database of Indians living in India. An in-house developed custom chip, having variants associated with various cancers, cardiovascular, neurological, gastro-intestinal, metabolic and auto-immune disorders, was used to generate genotype data. Logistic regression analysis with top five genetic principal components as covariates resulted in 11 variants to be significantly associated with longevity at a p-value threshold of 5×10−4. Alleles associated with slower heart rate (rs365990, MYH6), lower risk of osteoporosis and short body height (rs2982570, ESR1), decreased risk of schizophrenia (rs1339227, RIMS1-KCNQ5) and decreased risk of anxiety and neuroticism (rs391957, HSPA5) were found to have higher frequency in LLIs. Alleles associated with increased risk of atrial fibrillation (rs3903239, GORAB-PRRX1) and biliary disorders (rs2002042, ABCC2) were found have lower frequency. The G allele of rs2802292 from FOXO3A gene, associated with longevity in Japanese, German and French centenarians, was also found to be significant in this population (P=0.027). Pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the genes involved in oxidative stress, apoptosis, DNA damage repair, glucose metabolism and energy metabolism were significantly involved in increasing the longevity. Results of our study demonstrate the genetic basis of healthy aging and longevity in the population.
Analytical description of the charge-to-photon conversion efficiency for electroluminescent devices based on thermally activated delayed fluorescence
Authors: Li Yungui , Blom Paul W. M.
Published: April 2024

The efficiency of electroluminescent devices based on thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF) is a complex interplay of spin-allowed radiative and nonradiative singlet and triplet recombination as well as spin-flip (reverse) intersystem crossing processes. An analytical description of exciton dynamics based on the various singlet and triplet transition rates would strongly facilitate the evaluation of the effects of different processes on device performance. We present unified and analytical expressions for the exciton densities, photoluminescence quantum yield (PLQY), and charge-to-photon (CTP) conversion efficiency in TADF-based electroluminescent devices. The derivation is based on a three-level model that can also be applied to conventional fluorescence- or phosphorescence-based devices. The model allows us to analytically calculate the fundamental kinetic rates in TADF systems as well as the CTP efficiency in devices with only PLQY and transient photoluminescence decay as experimental inputs. Evaluation of the individual kinetic processes reveals that TADF emitters with PLQY as high as around 90% that exhibit pronounced delayed fluorescence, intuitively treated as potential candidates for high-performance electroluminescent devices, can still result in a CTP efficiency of only 50%–60% due to the direct competition between triplet recombination and reverse intersystem crossing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Phase structure of extra-dimensional gauge theories with fermions
Authors: Pastor-Gutiérrez Álvaro , Yamada Masatoshi
Published: April 2024

We study the phase structure of five-dimensional Yang-Mills theories coupled to Dirac fermions. In order to tackle their nonperturbative character, we derive the flow equations for the gauge coupling and the effective potential for the Aharonov-Bohm phases employing the functional renormalization group. We analyze the infrared and ultraviolet fixed-point solutions in the flow of the gauge coupling as a function of the compactification radius of the fifth dimension. We discuss various types of trajectories which smoothly connect both dimensional limits. Last, we investigate the phase diagram and vacuum structure of the gauge potential for different fermion content.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Classification of same-gate quantum circuits and their space-time symmetries with application to the level-spacing distribution
Authors: Duh Urban , Žnidarič Marko
Published: April 2024

We study Floquet systems with translationally invariant nearest-neighbor two-site gates. Depending on the order in which the gates are applied on an N-site system with periodic boundary conditions, there are factorially many different circuit configurations. We prove that there are only N−1 different spectrally equivalent classes, which can be viewed either as a generalization of the brick wall or of the staircase configuration. Every class, characterized by two integers, has a nontrivial space-time symmetry with important implications for the level-spacing distribution—a standard indicator of quantum chaos. Namely, in order to study chaoticity one should not look at eigenphases of the Floquet propagator itself, but rather at the spectrum of an appropriate root of the propagator.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Improving gradient methods via coordinate transformations: Applications to quantum machine learning
Authors: Bermejo Pablo , Aizpurua Borja , Orús Román
Published: April 2024

In this paper, we introduce a generic strategy to accelerate and improve the overall performance of machine-learning algorithms, both in their classical and quantum versions, heavily rely on optimization algorithms based on gradients, such as gradient descent. The overall performance is dependent on the appearance of local minima and barren plateaus, which slow down calculations and lead to nonoptimal solutions. In practice, this results in dramatic computational and energy costs for artificial intelligence applications. Our method is based on coordinate transformations, like variational rotations, adding extra directions in parameter space that depend on the cost function itself, and which allowus to explore the configuration landscape more efficiently. The validity of our method is benchmarked by boosting several quantum machine-learning algorithms, getting a very significant improvement in their performance.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Experimental superposition of a quantum evolution with its time reverse
Authors: Strömberg Teodor , Schiansky Peter , Quintino Marco Túlio , Antesberger Michael , Rozema Lee A. , Agresti Iris , Brukner Časlav , Walther Philip
Published: April 2024

In the macroscopic world, time is intrinsically asymmetric, flowing in a specific direction, from past to future. However, the same is not necessarily true for quantum systems, as some quantum processes produce valid quantum evolutions under time reversal. Supposing that such processes can be probed in both time directions, we can also consider quantum processes probed in a coherent superposition of forward and backward time directions. This yields a broader class of quantum processes than the ones considered so far in the literature, including those with indefinite causal order. In this work, we demonstrate an operation belonging to this class: the quantum time flip. Using a photonic realisation of this operation, we apply it to a game formulated as a discrimination task between two sets of operators. This game not only serves as a witness of an indefinite time direction, but also allows for a computational advantage over strategies using a fixed time direction, and even those with an indefinite causal order.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Adaptive variational low-rank dynamics for open quantum systems
Authors: Gravina Luca , Savona Vincenzo
Published: April 2024

We introduce a model-independent method for the efficient simulation of low-entropy systems, whose dynamics can be accurately described with a limited number of states. Our method leverages the time-dependent variational principle to efficiently integrate the Lindblad master equation, dynamically identifying and modifying the low-rank basis over which we decompose the system's evolution. By dynamically adapting the dimension of this basis, and thus the rank of the density matrix, our method maintains optimal representation of the system state, offering a substantial computational advantage over existing adaptive low-rank schemes in terms of both computational time and memory requirements. We demonstrate the efficacy of our method through extensive benchmarks on a variety of model systems, with a particular emphasis on multiqubit bosonic codes, a promising candidate for fault-tolerant quantum hardware. Our results highlight the method's versatility and efficiency, making it applicable to a wide range of systems characterized by arbitrary degrees of entanglement and moderate entropy throughout their dynamics. We provide an implementation of the method as a Julia package, making it readily available to use.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Chiral Pseudospin Liquids in Moiré Heterostructures
Authors: Kuhlenkamp Clemens , Kadow Wilhelm , Imamoğlu Ataç , Knap Michael
Published: April 2024

We propose multilayer moiré structures in strong external magnetic fields as a novel platform for realizing highly tunable, frustrated Hubbard physics with topological order. Identifying the layer degree of freedom as a pseudospin allows us to retain SU(2) symmetry while controlling ring-exchange processes and concurrently quenching the kinetic energy by large external magnetic fields. This way, a broad class of interacting Hubbard-Hofstadter states and their transitions can be studied. Remarkably, in the limit of strong interactions the system becomes Mott insulating and we find chiral pseudospin-liquid phases which are induced by the magnetic field. We find that this topologically ordered state remains exceptionally stable toward relevant perturbations. We discuss how layer pseudospin can be probed in near-term experiments. As the magnetic flux can be easily tuned in moiré systems, our approach provides a promising route toward the experimental realization and control of topologically ordered phases of matter.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Investigations on corrosion behavior of 316LN and 316L austenitic stainless steel under corrosion-deformation interactions
Authors: Rao Sixian , Zhang Changwei , Zhao Fei , Bao Lei , Wang Xiaoyi
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the influence of corrosion-deformation interactions (CDI) on the corrosion behavior and mechanisms of 316LN under applied tensile stresses.

Design/methodology/approach

Corrosion of metals would be aggravated by CDI under applied stress. Notably, the presence of nitrogen in 316LN austenitic stainless steel (SS) would enhance the corrosion resistance compared to the nitrogen-absent 316L SS. To clarify the CDI behaviors, electrochemical corrosion experiments were performed on 316LN specimens under different applied stress levels. Complementary analyses, including three-dimensional morphological examinations by KH-7700 digital microscope and scanning electron microscopy coupled with energy dispersive spectroscopy, were conducted to investigate the macroscopic and microscopic corrosion morphology and to characterize the composition of corrosion products within pits. Furthermore, ion chromatography was used to analyze the solution composition variations after immersion corrosion tests of 316LN in a 6 wt.% FeCl3 solution compared to original FeCl3 solution. Electrochemical experiment results revealed the linear decrease in free corrosion potential with increasing applied stress. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy results indicated that high tensile stress level damaged the integrity of passivation film, as evidenced by the remarkable reduction in electrochemical impedance. Ion chromatography analyses proved the concentrations increase of NO3− and NH4+ ion concentrations in the corrosion media after corrosion tests.

Findings

The enhanced corrosion resistance of 316LN SS is attributable to the presence of nitrogen.

Research limitations/implications

The scope of this study is confined to the influence of tensile stress on the electrochemical corrosion of 316LN at ambient temperatures; it does not encompass the potential effects of elevated temperatures or compressive stress.

Practical implications

The resistance to stress electrochemical corrosion in SS may be enhanced through nitrogen alloying.

Originality/value

This paper presents a systematic investigation into the stress electrochemical corrosion of 316LN, marking the inaugural study of its impact on corrosion behaviors and underlying mechanisms.
A new challenge in accounting education: convergence of maturity model, education and evaluation in accounting
Authors: Arianpoor Arash , Abdollahi Ahmad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to propose a framework for the convergence of maturity model and education and evaluation in accounting.

Design/methodology/approach

The present research was conducted in two phases. In the first phase, to determine the indicators of convergence of the maturity model and education and evaluation in accounting, a Meta-Synthesis method was used. The conceptual model includes two dimensions of “Teaching and learning processes” and “Evaluation methods"; five levels of initial, repeatable, defined, managed and optimized; and a total number of 35 indicators. In the second phase, a questionnaire was developed, and academics as accounting faculty members in Iranian public universities were employed to fill out the questionnaire electronically and present a final framework. Having received the questionnaires, 66 questionnaires were analyzed statistically.

Findings

The results showed that the two dimensions of “Teaching and learning processes” and “Evaluation methods” considering initial, repeatable, defined, managed and optimized levels include 35 indicators, which form a framework for the convergence of maturity model and education and evaluation in accounting. The results show that both dimensions have positive and significant regression path coefficients in the convergence model. Moreover, the dimension of teaching and learning processes has the highest regression path coefficient indicating a greater impact on the convergence model. Besides, all five levels have positive and significant regression path coefficients with dimensions. Finally, in this study, all indicators were prioritized according to five levels.

Originality/value

Due to the success of maturity models and the urgent developments that require transformative improvements in accounting education, maturity models can respond to the challenges associated with education and learning in accounting. Thus, conceiving an image of the convergence of maturity model, education and evaluation in accounting seems imperative which has been scarcely investigated previously.
An analysis of apartment listings in best destinations on an OTA: Thailand versus Japan
Authors: Thongmak Mathupayas
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The sharing economy enables apartment owners to generate income from their assets. “Agoda Homes” is an online travel agent (OTA) that directly competes with Airbnb. A destination has to discover its competitiveness, but few studies have provided an overview of accommodation attributes in each destination, which are crucial to shaping its brand image. This paper aims to illustrate firm-generated content or attributes that apartment owners list about their properties on an OTA platform to comprehend factual information about apartments in each destination with various star ratings and user ratings and to formulate a research model for future studies.

Design/methodology/approach

Informational content and accommodation attributes for apartments are automatically collected using a Web scraping tool (the Data Miner). Descriptive statistics and text analysis (word cloud and word frequency) are used to analyze data.

Findings

Findings reveal the primary location, facilities, cleanliness and safety attributes for all apartments in each destination, along with star ratings and user ratings. A research framework for scholars is also suggested. Guidelines for stakeholders in the tourism industry are additionally furnished.

Originality/value

This work concentrates on apartments, which have received less attention in the tourism literature. The study gathers factual data from a website to mitigate respondent bias issues inherent in the traditional survey methods.
The effect of immersive technologies on tourist satisfaction and loyalty: the mediating role of customer engagement and customer perceived value
Authors: Abou-Shouk Mohamed , Zouair Nagwa , Abdelhakim Ayman , Roshdy Hany , Abdel-Jalil Marwa
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This research paper aims to investigate the predictors and outcomes of immersive technology adoption in tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

PLS-SEM is used for data collected from tourists visiting the UAE and Egypt to examine predictors and consequences of adoption.

Findings

It is revealed that perceived ease of use, enjoyment, immersion, usefulness and attitude towards technology predict immersive technology adoption. It is also revealed that the adoption affects tourists’ perceived value and engagement, which, in turn, affects tourists’ satisfaction and loyalty.

Originality/value

The study has integrated a research model that combines both antecedents and consequences of immersive technology adoption where few empirical investigations were revealed to draw conclusions on this research area. Also, missing relations have been included and tested in the research model.
Ethics in international HRD: examining conversational AI and HR chatbots
Authors: Andreas Natalie Bidnick
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies like conversational AI and HR chatbots in international human resource development (HRD) presents both productivity benefits and ethical challenges. This study aims to examine the ethical dimensions of AI-driven HR chatbots, emphasizing the need for fairness, autonomy and nondiscrimination. It discusses inherent biases in AI systems and addresses linguistic, cultural and accessibility issues. The paper advocates for a comprehensive risk assessment approach to guide ethical integration, proposing a “risk management by design” framework. By embracing ethical principles and robust risk management strategies, organizations can navigate AI-driven HR technologies while upholding fairness and equity in global workforce management.

Design/methodology/approach

Systematic literature review.

Findings

The paper advocates for a comprehensive risk assessment approach to guide ethical integration, proposing a “risk management by design” framework.

Practical implications

By embracing ethical principles and robust risk management strategies, organizations can navigate AI-driven HR technologies while upholding fairness and equity in global workforce management.

Originality/value

This study explores the intricate ethical landscape surrounding AI-driven HR chatbots, spotlighting the imperatives of fairness, autonomy, and nondiscrimination. Uncovering biases inherent in AI systems, it addresses linguistic, cultural, and accessibility concerns. Proposing a pioneering “risk management by design” framework, the study advocates for a holistic approach to ethical integration, ensuring organizations navigate the complexities of AI-driven HR technologies while prioritizing fairness and equity in global workforce management.
Recent advances on enhancing 3D printing quality of protein‐based inks: A review
Authors: Tian Han , Wu Jiajie , Hu Yanyu , Chen Xu , Cai Xixi , Wen Yaxin , Chen Huimin , Huang Jianlian , Wang Shaoyun
Published: April 2024

3D printing is an additive manufacturing technology that locates constructed models with computer‐controlled printing equipment. To achieve high‐quality printing, the requirements on rheological properties of raw materials are extremely restrictive. Given the special structure and high modifiability under external physicochemical factors, the rheological properties of proteins can be easily adjusted to suitable properties for 3D printing. Although protein has great potential as a printing material, there are many challenges in the actual printing process. This review summarizes the technical considerations for protein‐based ink 3D printing. The physicochemical factors used to enhance the printing adaptability of protein inks are discussed. The post‐processing methods for improving the quality of 3D structures are described, and the application and problems of fourth dimension (4D) printing are illustrated. The prospects of 3D printing in protein manufacturing are presented to support its application in food and cultured meat. The native structure and physicochemical factors of proteins are closely related to their rheological properties, which directly link with their adaptability for 3D printing. Printing parameters include extrusion pressure, printing speed, printing temperature, nozzle diameter, filling mode, and density, which significantly affect the precision and stability of the 3D structure. Post‐processing can improve the stability and quality of 3D structures. 4D design can enrich the sensory quality of the structure. 3D‐printed protein products can meet consumer needs for nutritional or cultured meat alternatives.
Total fermentable oligo‐, di‐, monosaccharides and polyols intake, carbohydrate malabsorption and gastrointestinal symptoms during a 56 km trail ultramarathon event
Authors: Convit Lilia , Rahman Shant S. , Jardine William T. , Urwin Charles S. , Roberts Spencer S. H. , Condo Dominique , Main Luana C. , Carr Amelia J. , Young Chris , Snipe Rhiannon M. J.
Published: April 2024

Aims

To explore the relationship between nutritional intake, fermentable oligo‐, di, monosaccharides and polyols, and carbohydrate malabsorption, with gastrointestinal symptoms during a 56 km trail ultramarathon event and identify differences in nutritional intake between runners with severe and non‐severe gastrointestinal symptoms.

Methods

Forty‐four ultramarathoners recorded and self‐reported dietary intake 3 days before, morning of, and during the ultramarathon with gastrointestinal symptoms obtained retrospectively and nutrient analysis via FoodWorks. Carbohydrate malabsorption was determined via breath hydrogen content pre‐ and post‐race. Spearman's rank‐order and Mann–Whitney U‐tests were used to identify relationships and differences between groups.

Results

Total fermentable oligo‐, di, monosaccharides and polyols intake were not associated with gastrointestinal symptoms, but weak associations were observed for lower energy (rs = −0.302, p = 0.044) and fat intake (rs = −0.340, p = 0.024) 3 days before with upper gastrointestinal symptoms and higher caffeine intake 3 days before with overall gastrointestinal symptoms (rs = 0.314, p = 0.038). Total fermentable oligo‐, di‐, monosaccharides and polyols intake and breath hydrogen were not different between those with severe versus non‐severe symptoms (p > 0.05). Although those with severe symptoms had higher caffeine (p = 0.032), and total polyols intake (p = 0.031) 3 days before, and higher % energy from fat (p = 0.043) and sorbitol intake (p = 0.026) during the race, and slower ultramarathon finish times (p = 0.042).

Conclusion

Total fermentable oligo‐, di‐, and monosaccharides intake and carbohydrate malabsorption were not associated with gastrointestinal symptoms. Additional research on the effect of fat, caffeine, and polyol intake on exercise‐associated gastrointestinal symptoms is warranted and presents new nutritional areas for consideration when planning nutritional intake for ultramarathoners.
Evaluation of the decomposition ability and characteristics of pig manure treated with different larval instar stages of black soldier fly (Hermetia illucens L.)
Authors: Choi In‐Hag
Published: April 2024

Waste treatment using black soldier fly (BSF; Hermetia illucens L.) larvae is an emerging technology that reduces livestock manure disposal. This study aimed to evaluate the effect of different growth stage BSF larvae on the decomposition potential (Experiment 1) and characteristics (Experiment 2) of pig manure. BSF larval instars were randomly divided in three groups according to their developmental stage, with three replicates per group, using a randomized block design. Each treatment group consisted of 1 kg of 2nd, 3rd, or 4th instar BSF larvae added in 10 kg of pig manure (Group 1, 2, or 3, respectively). In Experiment 1, 2nd and 3rd instar BSF larvae treatments resulted in greater decomposition levels of pig manure compared with 4th instar BSF larvae groups. In Experiment 2, BSF larvae improved the nutrient content of manure, leading to an increase in the total nitrogen levels and a decrease in total carbon content and C:N ratio, rendering it suitable for use as an organic fertilizer. In addition, the increased N levels of treated BSF manure were not related to lower pH levels. BSF larvae can greatly reduce ADF and NDF pig manure contents as a result of the larvae's waste reduction potential. Overall, BSF 3rd instar larvae have proven to be a useful tool for the sustainable management of pig manure by strongly increasing its decomposition ability and can be an organic fertilizer for agricultural purposes that reduce ADF and NDF contents through composting.
Effect of parboiling treatment times on the physicochemical, cooking, textural, and pasting properties and amino acid, phenolic, and sugar profiles of germinated paddy rice from different rice varieties
Authors: Mudgal Swasti , Singh Narpinder
Published: April 2024

In this research, parboiling was carried out at different times (5 and 15 min) on germinated paddy rice (GPR) from various basmati and non‐basmati varieties. The results showed that as the parboiling time increased from 5 to 15 min, E, ash content, total dietary fiber, mineral content, cooking time, and textural properties increased while L*, lipid content, total starch, gruel solid loss, water absorption, oil absorption, foaming capacity, sugar profile, and total phenolic and flavonoid content decreased as compared to GPR. All pasting properties of GPR increased except breakdown as the parboiling time increased from 5 to 15 min. Parboiling altered the properties of GPR due to starch gelatinization. Total essential amino acid and gamma‐aminobutyric acid decreased as the parboiling time (5 to 15 min) increased. The germinated parboiled brown rice could create a highly nutritious alternative to regular brown rice as it offers improved texture and cooking qualities.
Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract promotes skeletal muscle fiber type transformation through modulation of cecal microbiota and enhanced butyric acid production
Authors: Li Yiqiang , Chen Xiaoling , He Jun , Zheng Ping , Luo Yuheng , Yu Bing , Chen Daiwen , Huang Zhiqing
Published: April 2024

The conversion of fast‐twitch fibers into slow‐twitch fibers within skeletal muscle plays a crucial role in improving physical stamina and safeguarding against metabolic disorders in individuals. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) possesses numerous pharmacological and health advantages, effectively inhibiting the onset of chronic illnesses. However, there is a lack of research on the specific mechanisms by which GSPE influences muscle physiology and gut microbiota. This study aims to investigate the role of gut microbiota and their metabolites in GSPE regulation of skeletal muscle fiber type conversion. In this experiment, 54 male BALB/c mice were randomly divided into three groups: basal diet, basal diet supplemented with GSPE, and basal diet supplemented with GSPE and antibiotics. During the feeding period, glucose tolerance and forced swimming tests were performed. After euthanasia, samples of muscle and feces were collected for analysis. The results showed that GSPE increased the muscle mass and anti‐fatigue capacity of the mice, as well as the expression of slow‐twitch fibers. However, the beneficial effects of GSPE on skeletal muscle fibers disappeared after adding antibiotics to eliminate intestinal microorganisms, suggesting that GSPE may play a role by regulating intestinal microbial structure. In addition, GSPE increased the relative abundance of Blautia, Muribaculaceae, and Enterorhabdus, as well as butyrate production. Importantly, these gut microbes exhibited a significant positive correlation with the expression of slow‐twitch muscle fibers. In conclusion, supplementation with GSPE can increase the levels of slow‐twitch fibers by modulating the gut microbiota, consequently prolonging the duration of exercise before exhaustion.

Practical Application

This research suggests that grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) has potential applications in improving physical stamina and preventing metabolic disorders. By influencing the gut microbiota and increasing butyric acid production, GSPE contributes to the conversion of fast‐twitch muscle fibers into slow‐twitch fibers, thereby enhancing anti‐fatigue capacity and exercise endurance. While further studies are needed, incorporating GSPE into dietary supplements or functional foods could support individuals seeking to optimize their exercise performance and overall metabolic health.
Transdermal alcohol concentration features predict alcohol‐induced blackouts in college students
Authors: Richards Veronica L. , Glenn Shannon D. , Turrisi Robert J. , Mallett Kimberly A. , Ackerman Sarah , Russell Michael A.
Published: April 2024

Background

Alcohol‐induced blackouts (AIBs) are common in college students. Individuals with AIBs also experience acute and chronic alcohol‐related consequences. Research suggests that how students drink is an important predictor of AIBs. We used transdermal alcohol concentration (TAC) sensors to measure biomarkers of increasing alcohol intoxication (rise rate, peak, and rise duration) in a sample of college students. We hypothesized that the TAC biomarkers would be positively associated with AIBs.

Methods

Students were eligible to participate if they were aged 18–22 years, in their second or third year of college, reported drinking 4+ drinks on a typical Friday or Saturday, experienced ≥1 AIB in the past semester, owned an iPhone, and were willing to wear a sensor for 3 days each weekend. Students (N = 79, 55.7% female, 86.1% White, Mage = 20.1) wore TAC sensors and completed daily diaries over four consecutive weekends (89.9% completion rate). AIBs were assessed using the Alcohol‐Induced Blackout Measure‐2. Logistic multilevel models were conducted to test for main effects.

Results

Days with faster TAC rise rates (OR = 2.69, 95% CI: 1.56, 5.90), higher peak TACs (OR = 2.93, 95% CI: 1.64, 7.11), and longer rise TAC durations (OR = 4.16, 95% CI: 2.08, 10.62) were associated with greater odds of experiencing an AIB.

Conclusions

In a sample of "risky" drinking college students, three TAC drinking features identified as being related to rising intoxication independently predicted the risk for daily AIBs. Our findings suggest that considering how an individual drinks (assessed using TAC biomarkers), rather than quantity alone, is important for assessing risk and has implications for efforts to reduce risk. Not only is speed of intoxication important for predicting AIBs, but the height of the peak intoxication and the time spent reaching the peak are important predictors, each with different implications for prevention.
A 1‐year longitudinal study on experiencing workplace cyberbullying, affective well‐being and work engagement of teachers: The mediating effect of cognitive reappraisal
Authors: Leung Angel Nga Man , Ho Henry C. Y. , Hou Wai Kai , Poon Kai‐Tak , Kwan Joyce L. Y. , Chan Ying Chuen
Published: April 2024

Research on experiencing workplace cyberbullying (WCB) and its underlying mechanisms that impact the well‐being of teachers is scarce. We propose that cognitive reappraisal, which is a useful and adaptive emotion–regulation strategy for reinterpreting emotion‐eliciting situations, is a mediator explaining the inverse relationships between experiencing WCB and well‐being. A three‐wave longitudinal survey (baseline, T1; 3 months, T2; and 1 year, T3) was conducted with a sample of 444 primary and secondary schoolteachers in Hong Kong, China. Exposure to WCB, cognitive reappraisal, affective well‐being and work engagement of participants was assessed. In line with the hypotheses, results showed that cognitive reappraisal mediated the associations between WCB and well‐being. WCB at T1 was negatively associated with cognitive reappraisal at T2, which in turn was positively associated with positive affect and work engagement and negatively associated with negative affect at T3. Findings suggest that the intrusive nature of WCB renders its victims emotionally exhausted and helpless, thus negatively impacting the process to reinterpret the situation in a positive light, resulting in undesirable consequences. This study has illuminated WCB's inhibitory mechanism and its long‐term detrimental impact. Practical implications are discussed.
Germline assessment for alloHSCT candidates over 50 years: A ‘Fast‐Track’ screening in myeloid neoplasms
Authors: Torres‐Esquius Sara , Beas Francisco , Chen‐Liang Tzu Hua , Pomares Helena , Santiago Marta , Varela Nicolás Díaz , Liquori Alessandro , Hernandez Francisca , Xicoy Blanca , Hermosín Lourdes , Arnan Montserrat , Tazón‐Vega Bárbara , Blanco Adoración , Cervera José , Diez‐Campelo María , Lozano María Luisa , Valcárcel David , Bosch Francesc , Montoro Maria Julia , Jerez Andrés ,   the GESMD centres
Published: April 2024

Patients aged 50 or above diagnosed with myeloid neoplasms (MNs) are typically not candidates for germline testing. However, approximately 8% carry pathogenic germline variants. Allogeneic haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (alloHSCT) remains an option for those aged over 50; neglecting germline testing could mask the risk for relative donor cell‐derived MN. We propose a germline‐augmented somatic panel (GASP), combining MN predisposition genes with a myeloid somatic panel for timely germline variant identification when initial testing is not indicated. Out of our 133 whole‐exome‐sequenced MN cases aged over 50 years, 9% had pathogenic/likely variants. GASP detected 92%, compared to 50% with somatic‐only panel. Our study highlights the relevance of germline screening in MN, particularly for alloHSCT candidates without established germline‐testing recommendations.