bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elevated polyreactive immunoglobulin G in immune mediated liver injuries with the need for immunosuppressive therapy
Authors: Kirchner Theresa , Dalekos George N. , Zachou Kalliopi , Robles-Díaz Mercedes , Andrade Raúl J. , Sebode Marcial , Lohse Ansgar , Janik Maciej K. , Milkiewicz Piotr , Kolev Mirjam , Semmo Nasser , Bruns Tony , Gevers Tom Jg , Beretta-Piccoli Benedetta Terziroli , Wedemeyer Heiner , Jaeckel Elmar , Taubert Richard , Engel Bastian ,   pIgG study group
Published: May 2024

Background and aim

The distinction of drug-induced liver injury (DILI), drug-induced autoimmune-like hepatitis (DI-ALH) and autoimmune hepatitis (AIH) can be challenging due to overlapping clinical characteristics. Recently, polyreactive immunoglobulin G (pIgG) was identified as a novel biomarker with a higher accuracy for the diagnose of AIH than conventional autoantibodies. This retrospective multicenter study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of pIgG to distinguish between AIH, DI-ALH and DILI and thus identify patients in need of immunosuppression.

Methods

Samples from 116 patients (AIH=81, DI-ALH=12, DILI=23) were recruited and compared to a control group (non-AIH-non-DILI-LD= 596) from existing biorepositories.

Results

No patient in the DILI-group but 98% in the AIH-and 92% in the DI-ALH-group received immunosuppressive treatment. pIgG levels were significantly higher in the AIH-group (1.9 normalized arbitrary units (nAU) compared to DILI (1.1 nAU, p<0.001) and non-AIH-non-DILI-LD (1.0 nAU, p<0.001). Median pIgG concentrations of the DI-ALH-group (1.7 nAU) were between AIH (p=.634) and DILI (p=.052). Patients that needed immunosuppressive therapy for remission induction had significantly higher pIgG concentrations compared to those with spontaneous recovery of liver injury (1.8 nAU vs. 1.1 nAU, p<.001). The overall accuracy of pIgG >1.27nAU to distinguish AIH from DILI (74%) and liver injuries with and without the need for immunosuppression (74%) was similar to that of ANA (71/74%) and SMA (74/70%) at cut-offs of ≥1/40.

Conclusion

Polyreactive IgG can be used to predict AIH in comparison to DILI and indicate the need for immunosuppressive therapy in the work-up of immune mediated or drug-induced liver injuries.
Psychosocial Profiles of Older Adults by Dentition Status and Dental Utilization History
Authors: Finlayson T.L. , Moss K. , Jones J.A. , Preisser J.S. , Weintraub J.A.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Psychosocial factors can affect health. Patterns of psychosocial stressors and resources among older adults were examined for oral health status.

Methods

The Health and Retirement Study (HRS) is a representative sample of US adults >50 years. Participants completed the 2018 HRS CORE survey and Psychosocial and Lifestyle Questionnaire–Panel A “Leave Behind” survey (HRS-LB)(N=4703). All measures were self-reported, and stratified into outcome groups: 1) edentulous/dentate, 2) with/without a recent dental visit in the last two years. Psychosocial measures covered three domains: well-being, beliefs, and lifestyle. Specifically, we studied loneliness, life satisfaction, perceived age, social status, control, mastery, and chronic stressors. Latent class analysis (LCA) identified profiles of adults based on the distribution of psychological and social stressors and resources. Associations between latent classes and being edentulous and a recent dental visit were examined in logistic regression models.

Results

About 30% reported no recent dental visit; 14% were edentulous. Three latent classes were identified; profiles had different distributions of psychosocial factors. Half were in Class A:“Satisfied/Connected” (n=2230), 27% in Class B:“Satisfied/Lonely” (n=1293), and 25% in Class C:“Unsatisfied/Lonely” (n=1180). “Satisfied/Connected” adults had the fewest psychosocial risk factors, most resources, were dentate, with a recent dental visit. “Unsatisfied/Lonely” adults exhibited the most psychosocial risk factors and fewest resources, more were edentulous and lacked a recent dental visit. “Satisfied/Lonely” adults exhibited characteristics between Classes A and C. In fully adjusted regression models, Class B adults had 1.29 (1.03-1.61) times greater odds than Class A to be edentulous, and 1.27 (1.07-1.50) times greater odds to not have a recent dental visit. Class C adults had 1.20 (0.96-1.51) times greater odds than Class A to be edentulous, and 1.33 (1.11-1.58) times greater odds to not have recent dental visit.

Conclusion

Adverse psychosocial factors are associated with edentulism and lack routine dental visits.
Usefulness of ecological mobility and socio-economic indicators in SARS-CoV-2 infection modelling: a French case study
Authors: Romain-Scelle Nicolas , Riche Benjamin , Benet Thomas , Rabilloud Muriel
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Following its emergence in January 2020, SARS-CoV-2 diffusion occurred for a year with only non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) available as mitigation tools. We aimed to assess the predictive capability of census-based indicators on the infection risk by SARS-CoV-2 in the French Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region to assist NPIs allocation at the neighbourhood level.

Methods

We aggregated all counts of biologically confirmed cases of SARS-CoV-2 infection at the neighbourhood level between May 2020 and February 2021. 10 census-based ecological covariates were evaluated as predictors of case incidence using a Poisson regression with conditional autoregressive (CAR) spatial effects. Benefits of CAR effects and covariates on model fit were evaluated using pseudo-R² and Moran’s I statistics.

Results

438,992 infection cases over 5,410 neighbourhoods among 7,917,997 inhabitants were analysed. The association between covariates and case incidence was inconstant across time and space. Spatial correlation was estimated at high levels. Spatial CAR effects were necessary to improve on the pseudo-R2and the Moran’s I statistics compared to the null model (intercept only).

Conclusion

The ecological covariates assessed were insufficient to adequately model the distribution of cases at the neighbourhood level. Excess incidence was found mainly in metropolitan areas before the epidemic wave peak.
The causal correlation between gastroesophageal reflux disease and chronic widespread pain: a bidirectional mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Menglin , Tu Houshu , Zhou Jiaoli , Zhang Yi , Wen Shuting , Xiao Yao , He Ling
Published: May 2024

Background

Previous observational research found a relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and chronic widespread pain (CWP). Despite this, it is unknown which, if any, of the conditions produces the other. Our study will use bidirectional Mendelian randomization (MR) to evaluate their causal link.

Methods

We examined two sets of publically accessible data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS): GERD (129,080 cases and 602,604 controls) and CWP (6,914 cases and 242,929 controls). We used the inverse variance weighting (IVW) approach as the major analysis method, but we also ran weighted median and MR-Egger regression analyses. We performed various sensitivity studies to assess the conclusions’ consistency, horizontal pleiotropy, and stability.

Results

MR analysis showed that CWP increased the risk of developing GERD [NSNP= 4, odds ratio (OR): 245.244; 95% confidence interval (CI): 4.35E+00,1.38E+04; p = 0.007 < 0.05] and vice versa (NSNP= 28; OR:1.019; 95% CI: 1.009-1.029; p = 0.029 < 0.05). Bidirectional evidence of causality existed. The sensitivity analysis demonstrated the robustness and reliability of the findings.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated a bidirectional causal relationship between GERD and chronic widespread pain, and future interventions for CWP may be an effective strategy for preventing or mitigating GERD and vice versa.
Clinical safety and pharmacokinetics of a novel oral niclosamide formulation compared with marketed niclosamide chewing tablets in healthy volunteers: a three-part randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial
Authors: Walther Niklas , Schultz-Heienbrok Robert , Staß Heino , Corman Victor M. , Gassen Nils C. , Müller Marcel A. , Drosten Christian , Witzenrath Martin , Lee Hweeling , Posch Maximilian G.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Niclosamide is an established anthelmintic substance and a promising candidate for treating cancer, viral infections, and other diseases. However, its solubility in aqueous media is low, and the systemic bioavailability of the commercially available chewing tablet is poor, limiting the use of niclosamide for systemic treatment. A liquid oral formulation using polyethylene glycol 400 was developed and investigated in healthy volunteers to assess safety, tolerability, and pharmacokinetics in comparison to the marketed tablet. (ClinicalTrials.gov:NCT04644705)

Methods

The study consisted of three parts: Part A was a double-blind placebo-controlled single ascending dose trial in three dose groups (200, 600, and 1600 mg) with four participants receiving either the investigational niclosamide formulation or placebo (3:1) under fasted and/or fed conditions. Part B was a crossover study comparing 1600 mg investigational niclosamide solution with the marketed 2000 mg chewing tablet in four healthy volunteers. Part C was a double-blind placebo-controlled multiple-dose trial comparing 1200 mg and 1600 mg (verum: placebo 4:2) in two dose groups with six subjects each, who received daily doses for seven days.

Results

No serious or severe adverse events occurred. The most frequent adverse events were mild to moderate gastrointestinal reactions. There was also no apparent dependence between drug exposure levels (AUC, Cmax) and the severity and incidence of adverse events detectable. A relevant food effect was observed with a mean AUClastabout 2-fold higher in fed condition compared to fasted condition. In Part B, dose-normalized Cmaxand AUClastwere similar for niclosamide solution and tablet. Absorption of niclosamide solution was highly variable. Some individuals showed high absorption (Cmax>2µg/ml) whereas others did absorb only marginally. Importantly, there was no dose linearity in the range of 200 mg – 1600 mg. No signs of relevant systemic drug accumulation after multiple administrations were observed.

Conclusion

Overall safety and tolerability observed in healthy subjects were benign. This is also true for individual “high absorbers” (Cmax>2µg/ml), encouraging further research into niclosamide as a potential therapeutic agent. Galenic optimization, however, will remain challenging as evident from the observed exposure variability and non-linear PK. Non-linearity, if confirmed by additional data, might make niclosamide more suitable for multi-dose rather than high single dose regimens. The observed food effect should also be considered when further investigating systemic niclosamide exposures.
Musculoskeletal Modeling and Movement Simulation for Structural Hip Disorder Research: A Scoping Review of Methods and Applications
Authors: Harrington Margaret S. , Leo Stefania D. F. Di , Hlady Courtney A. , Burkhart Timothy A.
Published: May 2024

Musculoskeletal modeling is a powerful tool to quantify biomechanical factors typically not feasible to measurein vivo,such as hip contact forces and deep muscle activations. The purposes of this review were to summarize current modeling and simulation methods in structural hip disorder research and evaluate model validation practices and study reproducibility. MEDLINE and Web of Science were searched to identify literature relating to the use of musculoskeletal models to investigate structural hip disorders (i.e., involving a bony abnormality of the pelvis, femur, or both). Forty-seven articles were included for analysis. Studies either compared multiple modeling methods or applied a single modeling workflow to answer a research question. Overall, differences in outputs were shown between generic models scaled to participants’ anthropometrics and models with additional patient-specific geometry; however, generic models were most commonly used in application studies. The 11 studies that assessed model validation used qualitative approaches only. There was also wide variability and under-reporting of data collection, data processing, and modeling methods. Common assumptions made in musculoskeletal modeling during the model development, validation, and movement simulations were identified that are important to consider when evaluating the clinical applicability of modeling predictions in patients with structural hip disorders. Differences between generic and patient-specific model outputs exist; however, whether the patient-specific models are more accurate is still unknown. Increased transparency in reporting of data collection, signal processing, and modeling methods is needed to increase study reproducibility and allow for better assessment of modeling results.
Limitations of estimating antibiotic resistance using German hospital consumption data - A comprehensive computational analysis
Authors: Rank Michael , Kather Anna , Wilke Dominik , Steib-Bauert Michaela , Kern Winfried V. , Röder Ingo , de With Katja
Published: May 2024

For almost a century, antibiotics have played an important role in the treatment of infectious diseases. However, the efficacy of these very drugs is now threatened by the development of resistances, which pose major challenges to medical professionals and decision-makers. Thereby, the consumption of antibiotics in hospitals is an important driver that can be targeted directly. To illuminate the relation between consumption and resistance depicts a very important step in this procedure. With the help of comprehensive ecological and clinical data, we applied a variety of different computational approaches ranging from classical linear regression to artificial neural networks to analyze antibiotic resistance in Germany.

These mathematical and statistical models demonstrate that the amount and particularly the structure of currently available data sets lead to contradictory results and do, therefore, not allow for profound conclusions. More effort and attention on both data collection and distribution is necessary to overcome this problem. In particular, our results suggest that at least monthly or quarterly antibiotic use and resistance data at the department and ward level for each hospital (including application route and type of specimen) are needed to reliably determine the extent to which antibiotic consumption influences resistance development.
Dissociative recombination and resonant ion-pair formation in electron collisions with
HD+
Authors: Hörnquist Johan , Orel Ann E. , Larson Åsa
Published: May 2024

We have developed a method for which a variety of reactive scattering processes involving the H2 reaction complex can be studied using the same set of potential curves and couplings. The method is based on a close-coupling approach in a strict diabatic representation. By rigorously incorporating nonadiabatic couplings among bound states, we enable the computation of final-state distributions. Loss into the ionization continuum is accounted for with a nonlocal complex potential matrix. The method has successfully been applied in studies of H++H− mutual neutralization and H(1s)+H(ns) associative ionization. In this paper, we investigate the applicability of this method to dissociative recombination and resonant ion-pair formation in electron collisions with HD+. The importance of a nonlocal description of autoionization is demonstrated. Calculated cross sections and final-state distributions are compared with results from experiments and previous theoretical studies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Relativistic corrections to prompt double charmonium hadroproduction near threshold
Authors: He Zhi-Guo , Jin Xiao-Bo , Kniehl Bernd A.
Published: May 2024

We calculate the relativistic corrections to prompt J/ψ pair and J/ψ+ψ(2S) hadroproduction through the color singlet channel within the framework of nonrelativistic-QCD (NRQCD) factorization. The short-distance coefficients are obtained by matching full-QCD and NRQCD calculations at the partonic level, in which both squared amplitude and phase space are expanded in v2. We find that such an expansion of the phase space spoils the convergence of NRQCD factorization near the production threshold. To fix this problem, we propose to modify the matching between full QCD and NRQCD by adopting the physical phase space. In this modified approach, the theoretical uncertainties due to the choice of charm quark mass mc are largely reduced and the overall agreement of our predictions with LHC data is significantly improved, both for total and differential cross sections.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Structures of neural network effective theories
Authors: Banta Ian , Cai Tianji , Craig Nathaniel , Zhang Zhengkang
Published: May 2024

We develop a diagrammatic approach to effective field theories (EFTs) corresponding to deep neural networks at initialization, which dramatically simplifies computations of finite-width corrections to neuron statistics. The structures of EFT calculations make it transparent that a single condition governs criticality of all connected correlators of neuron preactivations. Understanding of such EFTs may facilitate progress in both deep learning and field theory simulations.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Essay: Quantum Sensing with Atomic, Molecular, and Optical Platforms for Fundamental Physics
Authors: Ye Jun , Zoller Peter
Published: May 2024

Atomic, molecular, and optical (AMO) physics has been at the forefront of the development of quantum science while laying the foundation for modern technology. With the growing capabilities of quantum control of many atoms for engineered many-body states and quantum entanglement, a key question emerges: what critical impact will the second quantum revolution with ubiquitous applications of entanglement bring to bear on fundamental physics? In this Essay, we argue that a compelling long-term vision for fundamental physics and novel applications is to harness the rapid development of quantum information science to define and advance the frontiers of measurement physics, with strong potential for fundamental discoveries. As quantum technologies, such as fault-tolerant quantum computing and entangled quantum sensor networks, become much more advanced than today’s realization, we wonder what doors of basic science can these tools unlock. We anticipate that some of the most intriguing and challenging problems, such as quantum aspects of gravity, fundamental symmetries, or new physics beyond the minimal standard model, will be tackled at the emerging quantum measurement frontier.

.

Published by the American Physical Society2024
First Results of the Laser-Interferometric Detector for Axions (LIDA)
Authors: Heinze Joscha , Gill Alex , Dmitriev Artemiy , Smetana Jiří , Yan Tianliang , Boyer Vincent , Martynov Denis , Evans Matthew
Published: May 2024

We present the operating principle and the first observing run of a novel kind of direct detector for axions and axionlike particles in the galactic halo. Sensitive to the polarisation rotation of linearly polarised laser light induced by an axion field, our experiment is the first detector of its kind collecting scientific data. We discuss our peak sensitivity of 1.51×10−10  GeV−1 (95% confidence level) to the axion-photon coupling strength in the axion mass range of 1.97–2.01 neV which is, for instance, motivated by supersymmetric grand-unified theories. We also report on effects that arise in our high-finesse in-vacuum cavity at an unprecedented optical continuous-wave intensity of 4.7  MW/cm2. Our detector already belongs to the most sensitive direct searches within its measurement band, and our results pave the way towards surpassing the current sensitivity limits even of astrophysical observations in the mass range from 10−8 down to 10−16  eV via quantum-enhanced laser interferometry, especially with the potential of scaling our detector up to kilometer length.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Geometry and Unitarity of Scalar Fields Coupled to Gravity
Authors: He Minxi , Kamada Kohei , Mukaida Kyohei
Published: May 2024

We formulate scalar field theories coupled nonconformally to gravity in a manifestly frame-independent fashion. Physical quantities such as the S matrix should be invariant under field redefinitions, and hence can be represented by the geometry of the target space. This elegant geometric formulation, however, is obscured when considering the coupling to gravity because of the redundancy associated with the Weyl transformation. The well-known example is the Higgs inflation, where the target space of the Higgs fields is flat in the Jordan frame but is curved in the Einstein frame. Furthermore, one can even show that any geometry of O(N) nonlinear σ models can be flattened by an appropriate Weyl transformation. In this Letter, we extend the notion of the target space by including the conformal mode of the metric, and show that the extended geometry provides a compact formulation that is manifestly Weyl-transformation or field-redefinition invariant. We identify the cutoff scale with the inverse of square root of the extended target-space curvature and confirm that it coincides with that obtained from two-to-two scattering amplitudes based on our formalism.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Combining Reinforcement Learning and Tensor Networks, with an Application to Dynamical Large Deviations
Authors: Gillman Edward , Rose Dominic C. , Garrahan Juan P.
Published: May 2024

We present a framework to integrate tensor network (TN) methods with reinforcement learning (RL) for solving dynamical optimization tasks. We consider the RL actor-critic method, a model-free approach for solving RL problems, and introduce TNs as the approximators for its policy and value functions. Our “actor-critic with tensor networks” (ACTeN) method is especially well suited to problems with large and factorizable state and action spaces. As an illustration of the applicability of ACTeN we solve the exponentially hard task of sampling rare trajectories in two paradigmatic stochastic models, the East model of glasses and the asymmetric simple exclusion process, the latter being particularly challenging to other methods due to the absence of detailed balance. With substantial potential for further integration with the vast array of existing RL methods, the approach introduced here is promising both for applications in physics and to multi-agent RL problems more generally.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Output redefinition-based active disturbance rejection control for nonminimum phase hypersonic vehicles
Authors: Lu Qingli , Sun Ruisheng , Lu Yu
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose and verify an improved cascade active disturbance rejection control (ADRC) scheme based on output redefinition for hypersonic vehicles (HSVs) with nonminimum phase characteristic and model uncertainties.

Design/methodology/approach

To handle the nonminimum phase characteristic, a tuning factor stabilizing internal dynamics is introduced to redefine the system output states; its effective range is determined by analyzing Byrnes–Isidori normalized form of the redefined system. The extended state observers (ESOs) are used to estimate the uncertainties, which include matched and mismatched items in the system. The controller compensates observations in real time and appends integral terms to improve robustness against the estimation errors of ESOs.

Findings

Theoretical and simulation results show that the stability of internal dynamics is guaranteed by the tuning factor and the tracking errors of external commands are globally asymptotically stable.

Practical implications

The control scheme in this paper is expected to generate a reliable way for dealing with nonminimum phase characteristic and model uncertainties of HSVs.

Originality/value

In the framework of ADRC, a concise form of redefined outputs is proposed, in which the tuning factor performs a decisive role in stabilizing the internal dynamics of HSVs. By introducing an integral term into the cascade ADRC scheme, the compensation accuracy of matched and mismatched disturbances is improved.
Structure analysis of double comb about jet spinning machine based on CFD
Authors: Haifeng Fang , Zhang Jun , Sun Hanlin , Cai Lihua
Published: May 2024

Purpose

As a new type of spinning machine, the jet spinning machine absorbs the carding system of the rotating cup spinning series and the nozzle part of the jet spinning. This paper aims to intends to introduce the double carding structure currently studied by the rotating cup spinning into the jet spinning machine, and analyze the influence of the nozzle characteristic number on the flow field in the double carding structure to verify the advantages of the double carding structure.

Design/methodology/approach

The simulation is used to evaluate the performance of single/double split jet spinning and nozzle feature number, verify the technical advantages of double split jet spinning and evaluate the influence of nozzle feature number on flow field. The influence of the nozzle characteristic number on the flow pattern in the four models is compared. The advantages and disadvantages of a conventional single comb and a double comb with a bypass channel on the longer side of the transport channel as an additional air supply channel are also evaluated.

Findings

At present, the double comb technology of rotary cup spinning is being studied at home and abroad to improve the spinning quality and improve the difficult problem of mixed yarn with large difference in processing fiber properties. At present, the jet spinning machine combines the advantages of rotary cup spinning and jet spinning, absorbing the comb system of rotary cup spinning series and the nozzle part of jet spinning. Therefore, it is found that the introduction of the double-split structure into the wool jet spinning has research value to improve the spinning quality.

Originality/value

The purpose of this paper is to refer to the previous research on the double comb structure in rotary spinning, and to apply the double comb structure in the new jet spinning machine to improve the spinning quality. The simulation is used to evaluate the performance of single/double split jet spinning and nozzle feature number, verify the technical advantages of double split jet spinning and evaluate the influence of nozzle feature number on flow field.
Drivers of formal and informal retail patronage in emerging markets
Authors: Rajaguru Rajesh , Matanda Margaret , Siaw Christopher Agyapong
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study examines how formal retail formats (FRFs), and informal retail formats (IRFs) may coexist as substitutes and complements in emerging markets because of store patronage driven by customers’ chronic shopping orientations, and differences in salesperson consultation in the two retail formats.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a shopping motivational orientation framework, we develop and test a moderated mediation model using survey data from 515 shoppers of formal and informal grocery retail outlets in India.

Findings

While task-focused and experiential-focused shopping orientations influence both FRF and IRF patronage, store satisfaction mediates these relationships and crucially attenuates the negative impact of task-focused orientation on FRF patronage. Salesperson consultation moderates the mediating effects of satisfaction in the link between shopping orientation and patronage of both FRFs and IRFs.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that FRFs and IRFs could coexist as complements and substitutes when patronage is examined as repeated visits determined by shopping orientation, mediated by satisfaction and moderated by salesperson consultation.

Practical implications

For FRFs and IRFs to be complements, both formats must prioritize their distinctive attributes that satisfy a consumer's chronic shopping orientation. Substitution depends on how both retail formats prioritize salesperson consultation and in-store characteristics that appeal to consumers’ chronic orientation during specific shopping trips.

Originality/value

Whilst FRFs must satisfy task-focused shoppers to compete with IRFs, salesperson consultation can inhibit such satisfaction. However, the extent of coexistence between FRFs and IRFs depends on how each format leverages salesperson consultation to enhance satisfaction of experiential-focused shoppers.
Impact of metaverse technology on hospitality and tourism industry: an interplay of social media marketing on hotel booking in India
Authors: Ahmad Khalil , Sharma Bhuvanesh , Khatwani Ritesh , Mishra Mahima , Mitra Pradip Kumar
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of metaverse technology on the hospitality and tourism industry. The introduction of metaverse technology has revolutionised the way the hospitality and tourism industry works. In the present study, the authors have investigated the role of social media marketing in the adoption of metaverse technology in hotel booking in India.

Design/methodology/approach

An extended technology acceptance model was proposed for an empirical investigation in the Indian context. Sample of 344 respondents was collected across India using a purposive sampling technique for the purpose of data analysis. The structural model analysis is used to analyse the data collected from the respondents using the SmartPLS software to check the structural and the measurement fit of the model.

Findings

The adoption intentions were largely influenced by the utility, attitude (ATT) and ease of use of the technology, and social media marketing plays a major role in influencing the perceived usefulness (PU) and ease of use (PEU). The study finds positive ATTs of the customers for using metaverse technology for booking their hotels. PU and PEU significantly influence the ATT of the consumer indicating the traveller’s perception of the usefulness and ease of metaverse technology influence their ATTs towards adoption.

Originality/value

Influence of metaverse technology is at a nascent stage in India specifically for hotel booking and tourism. The authors have used discriminant validity by using the criteria for both the square root of the average variance extracted and heterotrait–monotrait ratio tests, and the results suggest that the constructs in the research are distinct from other.
Analysis of Islamic finance, Islamic accounting and standards research
Authors: Meriç Arzu , Karaca Halime
Published: May 2024

Purpose

The Islamic financial system is a sector with a high potential for development, and the agenda has been set with theoretical studies before practical studies in this field have begun. The increase in theoretical studies on the establishment of the Islamic financial system has led to the issue being placed on the agenda of the Islamic world. Following the theoretical studies, the sector gained popularity with applications. The aim of this study is to systematically review the literature on the subject, which has been theoretically agenda-setting and functionalised with applications.

Design/methodology/approach

In this context, the place of the concepts of “Islamic Finance or Islamic Accounting and AAOIFI or IFRS” in the international literature and their coverage were examined; a bibliometric analysis of the articles written in this field between 2001 and 2023 and scanned in the Scopus database was carried out. The R bibliometrics software was used to analyse the data, and the results were evaluated by carrying out performance and scientific mapping analyses of the publications.

Findings

Based on the results of the bibliometric analysis, a total of 969 publications in the form of articles, books, book chapters and proceedings were identified in the Scopus database. It is evident that there has been a steady increase in the number of articles pertaining to the research topic over the years, and the years with the highest volume of publications are 2020 and 2022. The Journal of Islamic Accounting and Business Research is the most frequently published journal in this field, with the most commonly published authors being K. Hussainey and M.K. Alam.

Originality/value

A bibliometric analysis of the literature pertaining to the subject has been conducted to examine primarily theoretical shortcomings and translate them into practical improvements. This pioneering study of theoretical investigations on the subject is aimed at eradicating practical deficiencies.
Rumours. Who believes them?
Authors: Zhu Runping , Liu Qilin , Krever Richard
Published: May 2024

Purpose

While psychology, sociology and communications studies hypothesise a range of independent variables that might impact on individuals’ acceptance or rejection of rumours, almost all studies of the phenomenon have taken place in environments featuring notable, and sometimes very deep, partisan divisions, making it almost impossible to isolate the impact of partisan influences on views on different rumour subjects. This study aims to remove the possibility of partisan influences on readers of internet rumours by testing the impact of independent demographic variables in China, a one-party state with no overt partisan divisions. The study provides an opportunity to strip away the influence of ideology and see whether this factor may have coloured previous studies on susceptibility to believe rumours.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical study was used to examine belief in false and true online rumours in a non-partisan environment. A large sample group was presented with rumours across four subject areas and respondents’ conclusions and demographic information was then subject to logistic regression analysis to identify relationships between factors and ability to identify the veracity of online rumours.

Findings

Unexpectedly, the regression analysis revealed no statistically significant nexus between many independent demographic variables and patterns of believing or disbelieving rumours. In other cases, a statistically significant relationship was revealed, but only to a limited degree. The results suggest that once the role of partisanship in explaining the proliferation of and belief in false rumours and the ability to identify true ones is removed from consideration, no other independent variables enjoy convincing links with rumour belief.

Originality/value

The study tests in China, a jurisdiction featuring a non-partisan environment, the impact of independent variables on media users’ belief in a wide range of rumours.
Development of an empirical model and using community sport organizations as the basis for intervening variables in Islamic sports
Authors: Wulandari Septantri Shinta , Suryapermana Nana , Fauzi Anis , Suseno Bambang Dwi
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Through the development of an empirical model and using community sport organizations (CSOs) as the basis for intervening variables, this study aims to ascertain the impact of Muslim household consumption, sport development officers (SDOs) and CSOs on Islamic sport development (ISD) during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

All of the sports branch managers in Banten Province make up the study’s sample. Non-probability sampling with a purposive sampling strategy was the sampling method used. Making use of a questionnaire to gather data, 275 different sets of data are available for analysis.

Findings

Partial least squares is a tool for technical data analysis. With a t-statistic value of 71.358, the Moslem household consumption construct had a favorable and significant impact on the SDO construct. With a t-statistic value of 1.111, the Moslem household consumption construct had a positive but not statistically significant impact on ISD.

Originality/value

With a t-statistic value of 3.926, the Moslem household consumption construct had a positive and statistically significant impact on CSOs. With a t-statistic value of 1.111, the SDO construct had a positive and statistically significant impact on ISD. This study makes a new contribution by providing practical recommendations for the relationship between ISD authorities, community sports organizations and the positive and substantial impact on the development of the community and ISD.
Analyzing the factors influencing the creation of a toxic workplace in the electronics industry:a fuzzy cognitive map approach
Authors: Salehzadeh Reza , Ziaeian Mehran , Malekinejad Pooria , Zare Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify the factors influencing the creation of a toxic workplace and to examine how to improve a toxic workplace in the electronics industry.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the factors that influence the creation of a toxic work environment were identified by reviewing the research literature. Then, the current status of each identified factor in Iran’s electronics industry was evaluated by developing a questionnaire. Based on the survey data, a relationship map between the factors influencing the toxic workplace was created using the fuzzy cognitive mapping technique. Finally, scenarios were designed to improve the toxic workplace.

Findings

The results show that the “workplace bullying” factor is the factor with the highest centrality in relation to other factors. The results of the scenario design indicate the effectiveness of the “unrealistic expectations at work” factor as a scenario trigger.

Originality/value

This study helps reduce the toxic workplace in the organization, which plays an important role in improving the employees’ work performance and the organization’s development.
Understanding consumer behavior in phygital environments: an interpretivist methodological framework
Authors: Yao Alex , Chan Naythan , Yao Nansheng
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Due to rapid digitalization, the emergence of the “phygital” environment, which blends physical and digital experiences, creates unique challenges for researchers. This paper aims to introduce an interpretivist methodological framework designed to understand consumer behavior in phygital environments. The framework enables an in-depth exploration of the contextual factors, subjective experiences, personal emotions and social networks that influence consumer behavior in this space.

Design/methodology/approach

The framework was developed after a thorough literature review of the phygital environment and interpretivist research landscape. Consistent with the phygital transformation theory, this approach allows researchers to go beyond the limitations of purely quantitative methods, gaining a deeper understanding of consumer behavior in phygital environments. The framework is organized into four meticulously designed pillars, each focusing on specific aspects of research and using distinct data collection and analysis approaches.

Findings

The systematic framework facilitates exploration of various dimensions of consumer experiences in phygital settings through qualitative research techniques. Uncovering the richness of contextual factors, subjective meanings, consumer experiences and social interactions within the phygital environment yields meaningful insights into consumer decision-making and preferences. These insights help marketers craft better phygital marketing strategies.

Originality/value

This interpretivist framework presents a unique approach for researchers hoping to investigate consumer behavior in phygital environments. It offers deep insights and understanding of this largely unexplored space, contributing to the evolving body of knowledge in phygital studies.
Multi-objective reinforcement learning based on nonlinear scalarization and long-short-term optimization
Authors: Wang Hongze
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Many practical control problems require achieving multiple objectives, and these objectives often conflict with each other. The existing multi-objective evolutionary reinforcement learning algorithms cannot achieve good search results when solving such problems. It is necessary to design a new multi-objective evolutionary reinforcement learning algorithm with a stronger searchability.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-objective reinforcement learning algorithm proposed in this paper is based on the evolutionary computation framework. In each generation, this study uses the long-short-term selection method to select parent policies. The long-term selection is based on the improvement of policy along the predefined optimization direction in the previous generation. The short-term selection uses a prediction model to predict the optimization direction that may have the greatest improvement on overall population performance. In the evolutionary stage, the penalty-based nonlinear scalarization method is used to scalarize the multi-dimensional advantage functions, and the nonlinear multi-objective policy gradient is designed to optimize the parent policies along the predefined directions.

Findings

The penalty-based nonlinear scalarization method can force policies to improve along the predefined optimization directions. The long-short-term optimization method can alleviate the exploration-exploitation problem, enabling the algorithm to explore unknown regions while ensuring that potential policies are fully optimized. The combination of these designs can effectively improve the performance of the final population.

Originality/value

A multi-objective evolutionary reinforcement learning algorithm with stronger searchability has been proposed. This algorithm can find a Pareto policy set with better convergence, diversity and density.
A study on the thermomechanical response of various die attach metallic materials of power electronics
Authors: Gharaibeh Mohammad A. , Wilde Jürgen
Published: May 2024

Purpose

In power electronics, there are various metallic material systems used as die attachments. The complete understanding of the thermomechanical behavior of such interconnections is very important. Therefore, this paper aims to examine the thermomechanical response of four famous die attach materials, including sintered silver, sintered nano-copper particles, gold-tin solders and silver-tin transient liquid phase (TLP) bonds, using nonlinear finite element analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

During the study, the mechanical properties of all die attach systems, including elastic and viscoplasticity parameters, are obtained from literature studies and hence incorporated into the numerical analysis. Subsequently, the bond stress–strain relationships, stored inelastic strain energies and equivalent plastic strains are thoroughly examined.

Findings

The results showed that the silver-tin TLP bonds are more likely to develop higher inelastic strain energy densities, while the sintered silver and copper interconnects would possess higher plastic strains and deformations. Suggesting higher damage to such metallic die attachments. The expensive gold-based solders have developed least inelastic strain energy densities and least plastic strains as well. Thus, they are expected to have improved fatigue performance compared to other bonding configurations.

Originality/value

This paper extensively investigates and compares the mechanical and thermal response of various metallic die attachments. In fact, there are no available research studies that discuss the behavior of such important die attachments of power electronics when exposed to mechanical and thermomechanical loads.
High prevalence of dermatophytosis of the feet in acral melanoma of the foot
Authors: Waki Yuma , Nobeyama Yoshimasa , Nakagawa Hidemi , Asahina Akihiko
Published: May 2024

The clinical characteristics and pathogenesis of acral melanoma of the foot (AMF) have not been sufficiently elucidated. Clinical or subclinical persistent inflammation of the feet is caused by dermatophytosis of the feet (DPF). Persistent inflammation is potentially associated with oncogenesis. Moreover, diabetes has been reported to be associated with the development of dermatophytosis and cancer. The present study aimed to elucidate the clinical association between DPF and AMF, with consideration of diabetes. The medical records of 114 Japanese patients were retrospectively examined and divided into an AMF group (n = 30) and a control group consisting of patients with foot diseases other than melanoma (n = 84). Microscopic DPF screening was performed on all patients who reported symptoms in the foot, with or without AMF. Patients underwent a microscopic test to detect the presence of dermatophytes, and the diagnosis of DPF was made based on a positive result. In the AMF group, 18 (60.0%) and eight (26.7%) patients had DPF and diabetes, respectively. Four patients (13.3%) had both DPF and diabetes. In the control group, 25 (29.8%) and 11 (13.1%) patients had DPF and diabetes, respectively. Five patients (6.0%) had both DPF and diabetes. Univariate analyses showed a significantly higher prevalence of DPF in the AMF group than in the control group (odds ratio, 3.540; p = 0.003, Pearson χ2 test). Furthermore, multivariate analyses of sex, body mass index, DPF, and diabetes revealed DPF as a significant factor associated with AMF (odds ratio, 4.285; p = 0.002, logistic regression analysis). The hyperkeratotic type of DPF was more frequently observed in patients with AMF than in control patients (odds ratio, 11.083; p < 0.001, Pearson χ2 test). In conclusion, the present study found a significantly higher prevalence of DPF, especially its hyperkeratotic type, in patients with AMF. DPF may be associated with AMF pathogenesis.
Elevated serum vasohibin‐1 levels in atopic dermatitis: Implications for disease chronicity
Authors: Taira Haruka , Ito Yukiko , Yamamoto Toyoki , Koyama Asumi , Li Lixin , Sugimoto Eiki , Mizuno Yuka , Awaji Kentaro , Sato Shinichi , Shibata Sayaka
Published: May 2024

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is often characterized by chronic skin changes of dermal fibrosis, typically regulated by inflammatory and angiogenic factors. However, the significance of angiogenesis inhibitory factors in the development of AD is poorly understood. The present study investigated the potential role of an angiogenesis inhibitory factor, vasohibin‐1 (VASH1), in AD by evaluating serum and skin VASH1 levels and their correlation with clinical features. The results showed that VASH1 expression levels in both the serum and skin of patients with AD were significantly elevated compared to healthy controls. Immunohistochemical staining of AD skin showed increased VASH1 expression in dermal vascular endothelial cells. Notably, there was a significant correlation between serum VASH1 levels and disease duration as well as VASH1 and vascular endothelial growth factor A expression levels in the skin tissue of patients with AD. These results may suggest a pathogenesis of increased angiogenesis and associated elevated inhibitory processes accompanying inflammation in the chronic phase of AD.