bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FluorescenceIn SituHybridization Provides Evidence for the Presence of the Endosymbiotic Bacterial GenusRickettsiain Tardigrades
Authors: Tibbs-Cortes Bienvenido W. , Schultz Dylan L. , Tibbs-Cortes Laura E. , Schmitz-Esser Stephan
Published: December 2022

Many ecdysozoans harbor endosymbiotic bacteria within their microbiota, and these endosymbionts can have a range of positive and negative effects on their hosts. Recent 16S rRNA gene amplicon sequencing studies have provided evidence for endosymbionts within the tardigrade microbiota. In a previous study amplicon study, we determined that sequences corresponding to the endosymbiotic genusRickettsiawere significantly more associated with tardigrades than with the substrate from which they were isolated. Here, we performed fluorescencein situhybridization (FISH) using aRickettsia-specific probe, RickB1, to determine ifRickettsiacould be found in tardigrades. RickB1 and a probe targeting most bacteria, EUB338, colocalized within the tissues of tardigrades, indicating the presence ofRickettsia. We also performed FISH using RickB1 and a nonsense probe which allowed us to distinguish between false positives and true positives. This method revealed RickB1 signals in tardigrades that were not due to erroneous probe binding, providing further evidence thatRickettsiais present in tardigrades. Future research will be necessary to determine the effects, if any, of this endosymbiont on its tardigrade host.
A lightweight deep learning approach to mouth segmentation in color images
Authors: Chotikkakamthorn Kittisak , Ritthipravat Panrasee , Kusakunniran Worapan , Tuakta Pimchanok , Benjapornlert Paitoon
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Mouth segmentation is one of the challenging tasks of development in lip reading applications due to illumination, low chromatic contrast and complex mouth appearance. Recently, deep learning methods effectively solved mouth segmentation problems with state-of-the-art performances. This study presents a modified Mobile DeepLabV3 based technique with a comprehensive evaluation based on mouth datasets.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a novel approach to mouth segmentation by Mobile DeepLabV3 technique with integrating decode and auxiliary heads. Extensive data augmentation, online hard example mining (OHEM) and transfer learning have been applied. CelebAMask-HQ and the mouth dataset from 15 healthy subjects in the department of rehabilitation medicine, Ramathibodi hospital, are used in validation for mouth segmentation performance.

Findings

Extensive data augmentation, OHEM and transfer learning had been performed in this study. This technique achieved better performance on CelebAMask-HQ than existing segmentation techniques with a mean Jaccard similarity coefficient (JSC), mean classification accuracy and mean Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) of 0.8640, 93.34% and 0.9267, respectively. This technique also achieved better performance on the mouth dataset with a mean JSC, mean classification accuracy and mean DSC of 0.8834, 94.87% and 0.9367, respectively. The proposed technique achieved inference time usage per image of 48.12 ms.

Originality/value

The modified Mobile DeepLabV3 technique was developed with extensive data augmentation, OHEM and transfer learning. This technique gained better mouth segmentation performance than existing techniques. This makes it suitable for implementation in further lip-reading applications.
Sliding mode speed control of permanent magnet synchronous motor based on improved reaching law
Authors: Zou Xinhong , Ding Hongchang , Li Jinhong
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to present a sliding mode control method based on disturbance observer (DO) for improving the reaching law of permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM).

Design/methodology/approach

Aiming at the insufficiency of the traditional exponential reaching law used in sliding mode variable structure control, an exponential reaching law related to the speed error is proposed. The improved exponential reaching law can adaptively adjust the size of the constant velocity term in the reaching law according to the size of the speed error, so as to adaptively adjust the speed of the system approaching the sliding mode surface to overcome the control deviation and improve the dynamic and steady state performance. To improve the anti-interference ability of the system, a DO is proposed to observe the external disturbance of the system, and the observed value is used to compensate the system. The stability of the system is analyzed by Lyapunov theorem. The effectiveness of this method is proved by simulation and experiment.

Findings

Simulation and experiment show that the proposed method has the advantages of fast response and strong anti-interference ability.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed method cannot observe the disturbance caused by the change of internal parameters of the system.

Originality/value

A sliding mode control method for PMSM is proposed, which has good control performance. The proposed method can effectively suppress chattering, ensure fast response speed and have strong anti-interference ability. The effectiveness of the algorithm is verified by simulation and experiment.
Hospitality employees’ technology adoption at the workplace: evidence from a meta-analysis
Authors: Guo Qiang , Zhu Dan , Lin Mao-Tang (Brian) , Li Fangxuan (Sam) , Kim Peter B. , Du De , Shu Yan
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This research aims to use meta-analytical structural equation modeling to look into how hospitality employees use technology at work. It further investigates if the relationship between the constructs of the technology acceptance model (TAM) is moderated by job level (supervisory versus non-supervisory) and different cultures (eastern versus western).

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 140 relationships from 30 empirical studies (N = 6,728) were used in this study’s data analysis in accordance with the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis.

Findings

The findings demonstrated that perceived usefulness had a greater influence on “user attitudes” and “acceptance intention” than perceived ease of use. This study also identified that the effect sizes of relationships among TAM constructs appeared to be greater for supervisory employees or in eastern cultures than for those in non-supervisory roles or western cultures.

Practical implications

The findings provide valuable information for practitioners to increase the adoption of employee technology. Practitioners need to focus on the identification of hospitality employee attitudes, social norms and perceived ease of use. Moreover, hospitality practitioners should be cautious when promoting the adoption of new technologies to employees, as those at different levels may respond differently.

Originality/value

This is the very first empirical investigation to meta-analyze the predictive power of the TAM in the context of hospitality staff technology adoption at the workplace. The findings also demonstrated differences in the predictive power of TAM constructs according to job level and cultural differences.
The share of FDI in the value added of innovative and other industries in Poland
Authors: Kosztowniak Aneta Maria
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to examine the share of foreign direct investment (FDI) in creating the value added (VA) of innovative and other industries in Poland in 2004–2020.

Design/methodology/approach

In terms of the empirical analysis of FDI stocks, their locations were divided into innovative and other industries. The differences in the creation of VA are presented by domestic and foreign enterprises. The impact of FDI stocks in individual industries on gross domestic product (GDP) changes was assessed using the vector error correction model (VECM).

Findings

FDI from innovative industries generated approx. 7% VA of the Polish economy in the years 2004–2020. In 2009–2018, the share of VA of foreign enterprises in innovative industries in Poland showed a faster growth (by 5 pp) than in other industries. The results of decomposition confirm that the level of explanation of GDP by FDI in innovative industries is higher than in other industries.

Research limitations/implications

Changes in the classification of activities reduce the time series period available.

Practical implications

This study explains the participation of foreign and domestic enterprises in creating VA. The results are useful to pursuing the national investment policy.

Social implications

The economic results of domestic and foreign enterprises in the host country affect the economic growth and development and ultimately the socio-economic conditions of life.

Originality/value

This work provides some additional explanations for the inconclusive results of international research into the impact of FDI on GDP or the spillovers effects. Its usefulness concerns the detailed impact of FDI by industrial structures on GDP.
Sustainable food, consensus, and debates: a study on university campuses in Mexico City
Authors: Pasquier Merino Ayari Genevieve
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the conceptions that underlie the notion of “sustainable food” of different social actors based on a study focused on promoting sustainable food strategies on university campuses.

Design/methodology/approach

The research incorporates the views of various actors linked to a sustainable food project on the campuses of the National Autonomous University of Mexico (Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México), which is one of the most important universities in Latin America. The study includes a literature review on food sustainability strategies on university campuses and implemented sustainable food programmes in 100 universities worldwide. It also incorporates semistructured interviews and discussion groups conducted with consumers of the university community, 60 smallholder farmers and managers of 23 alternative food networks in Mexico City.

Findings

This research evidence the diversity of meanings and perspectives associated with food sustainability and a generalized emphasis on its environmental dimensions, although environmental problems tend to be partially understood. It also highlights the priority students and producers give to the accessibility of healthy foods.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study revealed important elements, potentially useful for designing sustainable food strategies on the campuses, considering the principles of the rights-based approach to development and social participation.

Originality/value

The research evinces tensions in the definition of food sustainability and its translation into actions from a multistakeholder perspective.
Is voice really persuasive? The influence of modality in virtual assistant interactions and two alternative explanations
Authors: Ischen Carolin , Araujo Theo B. , Voorveld Hilde A.M. , Van Noort Guda , Smit Edith G.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Virtual assistants are increasingly used for persuasive purposes, employing the different modalities of voice and text (or a combination of the two). In this study, the authors compare the persuasiveness of voice-and text-based virtual assistants. The authors argue for perceived human-likeness and cognitive load as underlying mechanisms that can explain why voice- and text-based assistants differ in their persuasive potential by suppressing the activation of consumers' persuasion knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

A pre-registered online-experiment (n = 450) implemented a text-based and two voice-based (with and without interaction history displayed in text) virtual assistants.

Findings

Findings show that, contrary to expectations, a text-based assistant is perceived as more human-like compared to a voice-based assistant (regardless of whether the interaction history is displayed), which in turn positively influences brand attitudes and purchase intention. The authors also find that voice as a communication modality can increase persuasion knowledge by being cognitively more demanding in comparison to text.

Practical implications

Simply using voice as a presumably human cue might not suffice to give virtual assistants a human-like appeal. For the development of virtual assistants, it might be beneficial to actively engage consumers to increase awareness of persuasion.

Originality/value

The current study adds to the emergent research stream considering virtual assistants in explicitly exploring modality differences between voice and text (and a combination of the two) and provides insights into the effects of persuasion coming from virtual assistants.
How effective is asynchronous, online training for graduate and undergraduate student instructors?
Authors: Hershock Chad , Melville Michael C. , Stimson Jacqueline , Dwyer Heather
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The authors developed online learning modules to train graduate and undergraduate student instructors (GUSIs) on grading and delivering feedback in quantitative disciplines. The authors report results from multiple assessments conducted during recent training events at a mid-sized, research-intensive institution and discuss implications for educational development.

Design/methodology/approach

Using pre/post-assessments, the author measured participants' learning gains and skill development. In Study 1, the authors measured learning gains for 109 computer science GUSIs randomly assigned to complete the modules or not. Participants who completed the modules performed significantly better on the post-assessment relative to the control group across all seven module learning objectives aligned with GUSI responsibilities. In Study 2, we iterated on both assessments and modules, replicating Study 1 results for GUSIs from other quantitative disciplines. In Study 3, the authors compared learning gains from online modules to in-person training sessions, focusing on the authentic task of providing written feedback on student work.

Findings

Proficiency improved equally and significantly via both training modalities.

Originality/value

At research-intensive universities, GUSI training can be inconsistent and difficult to scale and rarely assessed via direct measures of outcomes. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to rigorously measure GUSI skill development via authentic assessment tasks such as grading student work and/or providing effective written feedback rather than simply testing knowledge. This study also addresses implications for designing and implementing effective GUSI training at scale.
Can you feel it? The information behaviour of creative DJs
Authors: Munro Keith , Ruthven Ian , Innocenti Perla
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper investigates the information behaviour of creative DJs, a group previously not considered from the perspective of information studies. The practice of DJing is a musically creative process, where a performance can draw on a vast range of music to create a unique listening and dancing experience. The authors study what are the information behaviour processes involved in creative DJing and what roles embodied information play in DJing practice.

Design/methodology/approach

From a set of semi-structured interviews with 12 experienced DJs in Scotland, UK, that were subjected to inductive thematic analysis, the authors present a model of how DJs undergo the process of planning, performing and evaluating a DJ performance.

Findings

From this study, a model of creative DJs’ information behaviour is presented. This three-stage model describes the information behaviours and critical factors that influence DJs’ planning, decision-making and verification during the pre-performance, performance and post-performance stages, with particular emphasis on DJs’ performances as a rich site of embodied information interactions.

Originality/value

This research provides insight into a new activity in information behaviour, particularly in the use of embodied information, and presents a model for the information behaviour of creative DJs. This opens the way for future studies to consider minorities within the activity, the audience as opposed to the performer, as well as other creative activities where physicality and performance are central.
Nameless strangers, similar others: the affordances of a young people's anonymous online forum for health information practices
Authors: Hirvonen Noora
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The study examines how the technical features and associated social practices of an anonymous, text-based online forum intended for young people make it a unique platform for acquiring and sharing health information among peers.

Design/methodology/approach

The features and content of a young people's section of a popular Finnish discussion forum were examined with a focus on health-related threads. Observational notes and thread content were analysed with a focus on the forum's affordances for health information practices.

Findings

The findings indicate that the forum's affordances including anonymity, persistence, searchability, cohesion and tolerance enabled the pooling of peer experiences, opinions and experience-based advice on health, rather than sharing factual information or embracing reciprocal discussion. As such, instead of competing for a cognitive authority position with medical authorities or offering emotional support like tight online support communities, the anonymous forum served as a platform for young people to gain information on others' experiences and opinions on sensitive, mundane and disnormative health issues and for reflecting their own lived experiences to those of others.

Originality/value

The study is original in its approach to examining the affordances of an online platform for health information practices. It helps in understanding young people's ways of using different resources to meet their diverse health information needs and the value of gaining access to experiential health information.
Antecedents of labor shortage in the rural hospitality industry: a comparative study of employees and employers
Authors: Innerhofer Johanna , Nasta Luigi , Zehrer Anita
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Although the role of human capital in the hospitality sector is critical, the industry faces challenges in attracting workers with a poor industry image frequently mentioned regarding labor shortages. This research paper attempts to investigate the factors influencing labor shortages by presenting the perspectives of employees and employers.

Design/methodology/approach

Precisely 232 rural hospitality industry employees (n = 128) and employers (n = 104) in Northern Italy were surveyed using a written close-ended online survey and a quantitative research design as part of a convenience sampling approach. For hypotheses testing, Spearman's rho was used.

Findings

A relationship between the shortage of professional workers and a variety of factors was found, including professional, digital, social and green skills, industry-intrinsic characteristics and symbolic image attributes of the industry. The findings show that some factors are more important for employees, while others are more significant for employers.

Practical implications

This study demonstrates several practical implications for the hospitality sector by addressing the under-researched stakeholder group of existing hospitality employees, e.g. improving working conditions, reduction of manual operations through digital technologies, realistic career planning, employer branding, identification of skill deficiencies and provision of specialized trainings.

Originality/value

Most research on labor shortages in the hospitality industry has focused on the perspective of either employees or employers. This study compares both perspectives, including the industry image, to gain a realistic picture of the relevant factors for a rural tourism destination in Northern Italy.
Lateral control of intelligent vehicles using radial basis function neural networks with sliding mode control based on fractional order calculus
Authors: Li Peiqing , Yang Taiping , Zhang Hao , Wang Lijun , Li Qipeng
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aimed a fractional-order sliding mode-based lateral lane-change control method that was proposed to improve the path-tracking accuracy of vehicle lateral motion.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper the vehicle presighting and kinematic models were established, and a new sliding mode control isokinetic convergence law was devised based on the fractional order calculus to make the front wheel turning angle approach the desired value quickly. On this basis, a fractional gradient descent algorithm was proposed to adjust the radial basis function (RBF) neuron parameter update rules to improve the compensation speed of the neural network.

Findings

The simulation results revealed that, compared to the traditional sliding mode control strategy, the designed controller eliminated the jitter of the sliding mode control, sped up the response of the controller, reduced the overshoot of the system parameters and facilitated accurate and fast tracking of the desired path when the vehicle changed lanes at low speeds.

Originality/value

This paper combines the idea of fractional order calculus with gradient descent algorithm, proposed a fractional-order gradient descent method applied to RBF neural network and fast adjustment the position and width of neurons.
Dark, darker, social media: dark side experiences, identity protection, and preventive strategies of micro entrepreneurs on social media
Authors: Sawy Alina , Bögenhold Dieter
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Social media has been gaining importance in recent years as an integral part of entrepreneurs’ business and marketing strategies. At the same time, the entrepreneurial use of social media can lead to dark and negative consequences. This aspect has received less attention in the literature so far. The purpose of this study is to advice entrepreneurial practitioners to balance the sides of pros and cons as being an inherent reality to acknowledge the full scenario of business life and the interplay of diverse influences.

Design/methodology/approach

The qualitative interviews focused on the dark side experiences of micro-entrepreneurs on social media and on strategies to protect their private identities and businesses from those dark side effects. For the theoretical classification of dark side experiences, the framework of Baccarella et al. (2018) was used and adapted based on the experiences reported.

Findings

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the study is one of the first to provide an understanding of the negative experiences micro-entrepreneurs face on social media. The research showed the relevance of five out of the seven dark-side building blocks and identified time as a further influential aspect. Thereby, the authors learn to comprehend the negative sides of social media for micro-operated businesses. The findings highlight the need to understand entrepreneurial social media use with simultaneously negative hazards and economic and social challenges. Addressing the entanglement of the entrepreneurial and private selves of micro-entrepreneurs, the findings demonstrate entrepreneur’s attempts of distancing or cleaning the negativity from their private identities and their businesses.

Originality/value

This paper problematizes dark sides as critical elements in entrepreneurial practice, which are too often neglected when discussing entrepreneurial marketing in general and entrepreneurship in social media specifically. The self is always captured between two sides, including the problematic (“dark”) and the bright.
Drivers of digital corporate social responsibility during unprecedented crises: an institutional perspective
Authors: Al-Omoush Khaled Saleh
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study explores the role of institutional pressures and top management support in digital corporate social responsibility (CSR) adoption. It also investigates the impact of digital CSR on social trust and corporate sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 279 managers of Jordanian companies. Smart PLS was utilized to analyze the research model and test hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal that coercive pressures, normative pressures, memetic pressures and top management support significantly impact digital CSR adoption. The results also show that digital CSR significantly impacts social trust and corporate sustainability.

Originality/value

This study provides worthwhile insights into the literature on drivers of digital CSR, social trust and corporate sustainability in unprecedented crises. This study enriches the literature on the relationship between institutional theory and innovative IT solutions adoption theories. The review of prior research confirms an absence of empirical examinations of the causal relations among institutional forces, digital CSR, social trust and corporate sustainability.
Public-Private-Community Partnerships (PPCPs) as a mechanism in enhancing food security during the COVID-19 pandemic in Zimbabwe
Authors: Shoniwa Brighton
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper examines the relevance of Public-Private-Community Partnerships (PPCPs) as an alternative mechanism in enhancing food security during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond in Zimbabwe. It also draws attention to the complexities of adopting PPCPs, and proposes possible options to improve their effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applied concurrent mixed research methods. The sample population comprised multiple stakeholders in the area of food security and agricultural financing in Zimbabwe. The research adopted purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Data were collected through questionnaire, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions (FGDs) and documentary analysis. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, while qualitative data analysis was conducted thematically.

Findings

Prior to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, food insecurity was a consistent challenge in Zimbabwe. The pandemic has worsened the situation by further disruption of food systems and limiting people's access to food. PPCPs could be feasible alternative as they enhance value chain collaboration, improve access to inputs, reduce information asymmetry, ensure trust and facilitate risk sharing. PPCPs require proper design, control of transaction costs, clear definition of partners' roles, fair risk sharing, trust, and flexibility.

Originality/value

PPCPs are yet to be adopted in the Zimbabwean agricultural sector. The research informs policymakers on the need to implement multi-stakeholder collaborations in food production.
Building information modeling (BIM) for lifecycle carbon emission: scientometric and scoping literature reviews
Authors: Bouhmoud Hanane , Loudyi Dalila , Azhar Salman
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Considering the world population, an additional 415.1 billion m2 of built floor will be needed by 2050, which could worsen the environmental impact of the construction industry that is responsible for one-third of global Carbon Emissions (CEs). Thus, the current construction practices need to be upgraded toward eco-friendly technologies. Building Information Modeling (BIM) proved a significant potential to enhance Building and Infrastructure (B&I) ecological performances. However, no previous study has evaluated the nexus between BIM and B&I CEs. This study aims to fill this gap by disclosing the research evolution and metrics and key concepts and tools associated with this nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method design was adopted based on scientometric and scoping reviews of 52 consistent peer-reviewed papers collected from 3 large scientific databases.

Findings

This study presented six research metrics and revealed that the nexus between BIM and CEs is a contemporary topic that involves seven main research themes. Moreover, it cast light on six key associated concepts: Life Cycle Assessment; Boundary limits; Building Life Cycle CE (BLCCE); Responsible sources for BLCCE; Green and integrated BIM; and sustainable buildings and related rating systems. Furthermore, it identified 56 nexus-related Information and Communication Technologies tools and 17 CE-coefficient databases and discussed their consistency.

Originality/value

This study will fill the knowledge gap by providing scholars, practitioners and decision-makers with a good grasp of the nexus between CEs and BIM and paving the path toward further research, strategies and technological solutions to decrease CEs of B&I sectors and their impacts on the climate change.
Consumer attributions for corporate social responsibility: causes and consequences
Authors: Konalingam Kajenthiran , Sivapalan Achchuthan , Ratnam Umanakenan , Sivapiragasam Sivanenthira
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the complex relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) dimensions and customer loyalty. In particular, this study suggested an intervening process through customer perceived value, which makes banking customers more loyal.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a randomised sample of 261 respondents from the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, this study empirically investigates the role of CSR in enhancing customer value and loyalty. The collected data, the study model and hypotheses were assessed by partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

According to the results, CSR practices that are both strategic and stakeholder-driven have a positive effect on customer loyalty in the banking industry. Further, customer perceived-value positively impacts customer loyalty. Besides, customer perceived-value mediates the association between CSR practices and customer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to the banking industry. Thus, future studies can replicate the same research in different sectors like retail, tourism and hospitality, insurance and microcredit institutions, garments, textiles, etc.

Practical implications

This study suggests specific dimensions of CSR that need to be emphasised while the banking industry designs its loyalty programs.

Originality/value

The notion of customer value has been suggested as a mediating mechanism between diversified CSR perspectives and customer loyalty. Thus, this study proposes a comprehensive framework for enhancing customer loyalty to banks via CSR practices and customer value creation.
Tourism policy and United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 16: peace and stability in the Middle East and North Africa
Authors: Anouti Ahmad , Chaperon Samantha , Kennell James
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This article explores the ways in which the relationship between tourism, sustainable development and peace in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) is presented in national tourism policies, with a focus on United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG)16: peace justice and strong institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

Leximancer 5.0 software is used to analyze national tourism policy documents. Themes and concepts from the documents are presented visually in a concept map, and further qualitative analysis is carried out on the theme of sustainability to generate insights.

Findings

The relationship between tourism and peace is not well developed in tourism policies in the MENA region. This is a missed opportunity to use the engine of tourism development to promote regional sustainable development, but increased engagement with nongovernmental organization (NGOs) and communities by tourism policy-makers can help to address this.

Originality/value

This article links SDG 16 to tourism policy and provides insights into how this relationship could be developed in a region experiencing recurrent crises and high levels of tourism growth.
Asking Old Questions Anew: On the “History” of “Religions”
Authors: Roubekas Nickolas P.
Published: December 2022

By taking Hesiod's work from the subfield known as “ancient Greek religion” as both its starting point and case study, this article utilizes the work of Bruce Lincoln to demonstrate that, despite the contrary arguments, the role of history in the study of religion remains central, necessary, and frankly a prerequisite for a sober academic study of religions past and present. Therefore, by resorting to Lincoln's foundational work for a critical study of religion that does not negate the phenomenon itself but clearly indicates that it is a historical, human, and thereby examinable phenomenon—rather than an ahistorical, sui generis, and therefore non‐empirical one—the article attempts to ask questions that seemingly seem outdated but have been inadequately addressed, or consciously avoided, by contemporary scholars of religion. Three core questions are briefly examined: Is religion the topic of investigation in a given text? When working with historical textual sources, do we have a way to determine the content and aim of the author(s)? And, lastly, given that all our language is ultimately anachronistic, must historians of religions find other ways to approach religions of the past?
Introduction: Historians in the Study of Religion\s*
Authors: Brand Mattias
Published: December 2022

In this introduction to the special forum discussion on the role of historians in the study of religion\s, I present three main challenges to the discipline: (1) profound questioning of the most central concepts in the historical study of religion\s; (2) increasing fragmentation of the discipline, with many excellent – but hyper‐specialised – contributions; and (3) limited success in communicating specific academic insights to a larger audience of scholars and the general public. The aim of this forum discussion is to reflect on these challenges and rethink the role of the role of historians and historical analysis in the study of religion\s, in particular through research practices such as historicising, comparing, theorising, and generalising.
Gynaecological care of women with chronic pelvic pain: Patient perspectives and care preferences
Authors: Ross Whitney Trotter , Snyder Bethany , Stuckey Heather , Ross Ian R. , McCall‐Hosenfeld Jennifer , Harkins Gerald J. , Smith Carly P.
Published: December 2022

Objective

To explore the experiences and care preferences of women with chronic pelvic pain, with or without a history of sexual trauma, seeking gynaecological care.

Design

Qualitative study.

Setting

Ambulatory endometriosis centre.

Population or Sample

Women aged 18–55 years with chronic pelvic pain.

Methods

Baseline demographics and sexual trauma history were obtained, and participants were assigned to focus groups according to a positive (four groups, 13 participants) or negative (two groups, nine participants) screen for a history of sexual trauma. The focus groups were led by a clinical psychologist and a gynaecological surgeon and consisted of semi‐structured interviews. The interviews were audio‐recorded and transcribed, and the transcripts were coded in NVivo 12.

Main outcome measures

Content analysis was used to derive themes according to the participants' own words.

Results

Participants with chronic pelvic pain, with or without a history of sexual trauma, experienced delay in diagnosis and repetitive dismissals by clinicians. Participants' experiences of dismissals included: clinicians not listening, insufficient allocation of time to appointments and perceived redundant medical testing (i.e. sexually transmitted infection testing, urine cultures, ultrasounds). Participants identified clinician interactions as pivotal in coping with both pelvic pain and sexual abuse. Participants also provided feedback regarding trauma‐informed practices and care delivery specific to patients with chronic pelvic pain.

Conclusion

Patients with chronic pelvic pain, with or without a history of sexual trauma, report negative experiences when interacting with the healthcare system. They have clear needs and preferences regarding gynaecological care and provide feasible suggestions for improving care delivery.
Expression and functional characterization of odorant‐binding protein 2 in the predatory mite Neoseiulus barkeri
Authors: Wu Yixia , Li Yaying , Chu Wenqiang , Niu Tiandi , Feng Xiaotian , Ma Rongjiang , Liu Huai
Published: December 2022

Olfaction plays a crucial role for arthropods in foraging, mating, and oviposition. The odorant‐binding protein (OBP) gene is considered one of the most important olfactory genes. However, little is known about its functions in predatory mites. Here, we used Neoseiulus barkeri, an important commercialized natural pest control, to explore the chemosensory characteristics of OBP. In this study, N. barkeri was attracted by methyl salicylate (MeSA) and showed higher crawling speeds under MeSA treatment. Then, we identified and cloned an OBP gene named Nbarobp2 and analyzed its expression profiles in the predatory mite. Nbarobp2 was 663 bp, was highly expressed in larval and nymphal stages, and was significantly upregulated in N. barkeri under MeSA treatment. Nbarobp2 encoded 202 amino acid residues with a molecular weight of 23 kDa (after removing the signal peptide). Sequence comparisons revealed that the OBPs in Arachnida shared 6 conserved cysteine sites, but were distinguishable from the OBPs of Insecta on the phylogenetic tree. RNA interference, Western blotting, and binding affinity assays further proved that Nbarobp2 was involved in volatile perception in predatory mites. This study shed light on the functional characteristics of OBPs in predatory mites, providing a new insight for better biological control.
Diffusive wave models for operational forecasting of channel routing at continental scale
Authors: Beg Md Nazmul Azim , Meselhe Ehab A. , Kim Dong Ha , Halgren James , Wlostowski Adam , Ogden Fred L. , Flowers Trey
Published: December 2022

Operational forecast models require robust, computationally efficient, and reliable algorithms. We desire accurate forecasts within the limits of the uncertainties in channel geometry and roughness because the output from these algorithms leads to flood warnings and a variety of water management decisions. The current operational Water Model uses the Muskingum‐Cunge method, which does not account for key hydraulic conditions such as flow hysteresis and backwater effects, limiting its ability in situations with pronounced backwater effects. This situation most commonly occurs in low‐gradient rivers, near confluences and channel constrictions, coastal regions where the combined actions of tides, storm surges, and wind can cause adverse flow. These situations necessitate a more rigorous flow routing approach such as dynamic or diffusive wave approximation to simulate flow hydraulics accurately. Avoiding the dynamic wave routing due to its extreme computational cost, this work presents two diffusive wave approaches to simulate flow routing in a complex river network. This study reports a comparison of two different diffusive wave models that both use a finite difference solution solved using an implicit Crank–Nicolson (CN) scheme with second‐order accuracy in both time and space. The first model applies the CN scheme over three spatial nodes and is referred to as Crank–Nicolson over Space (CNS). The second model uses the CN scheme over three temporal nodes and is referred to as Crank–Nicolson over Time (CNT). Both models can properly account for complex cross‐section geometry and variable computational points spacing along the channel length. The models were tested in different watersheds representing a mixture of steep and flat topographies. Comparing model outputs against observations of discharges and water levels indicated that the models accurately predict the peak discharge, peak water level, and flooding duration. Both models are accurate and computationally stable over a broad range of hydraulic regimes. The CNS model is dependent on the Courant criteria, making it less computational efficient where short channel segments are present. The CNT model does not suffer from that constraint and is, thus, highly computationally efficient and could be more useful for operational forecast models.
Association between financial toxicity and health‐related quality of life in cancer survivors: A systematic review
Authors: Jiang Hua , Lyu Jianxia , Mou Wenxuan , Jiang Qinghua , Du Jiali
Published: December 2022

Over the past decade, the number of cancer cases has continued to rise, placing a heavy burden on patients' families and healthcare systems. Although innovative treatments and drugs have improved patient outcomes, the financial toxicity (FT) of treatment is a growing concern among oncologists. Previous research have examined the impacts of FT on the HRQOL of cancer patients. However, the extent of the association is unclear, given that previous studies vary in the enrolled population, adjustment of confounding factors, and usage of FT assessment tools. To address this gap, the main purpose of this systematic review is to examine the relationship between FT and HRQOL of cancer survivors, and explore any potential factors that may affect this relationship.
Very low‐calorie ketogenic diet rapidly augments testosterone levels in non‐diabetic obese subjects
Authors: Cignarelli Angelo , Santi Daniele , Genchi Valentina Annamaria , Conte Eleonora , Giordano Fiorella , Di Leo Simona , Natalicchio Annalisa , Laviola Luigi , Giorgino Francesco , Perrini Sebastio
Published: December 2022

Background

The very low‐calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) represents an opportunity to attain clinically relevant weight loss in obese patients. Functional hypogonadism represents a frequent hormonal disorder associated with obesity and visceral fat accumulation characterised by low testosterone levels and subnormal luteinising hormone (LH) levels.

Aim

To evaluate the early effects of VLCKD on serum total testosterone (TT) levels in non‐diabetic obese patients.

Methods: Twenty‐two obese male patients (mean age 39.3 ± 11.7 years, mean body mass index (BMI) 38.2 ± 6.4 kg/m2) were enrolled and treated for 28 days with VLCKD. Anthropometric and hormonal variables were assessed before, during and after diet intervention.

Results

After 7 and 28 days on a VLCKD, a significant and persistent reduction in body weight, BMI, fat mass, blood glucose, insulin and homeostasis model assessment index was observed compared with baseline. TT significantly increased after 7 days (+35 ± 64 ng/dl) and 28 days (+74 ± 97 ng/dl) on a VLCKD. In addition to TT, a significant increase in serum sex hormone‐binding globulin levels was observed after 7 (+2.1 ± 4.1) and 28 days (+7.7 ± 10.0). However, both calculated free testosterone and LH did not change after 7 or 28 days of VLCKD. Following cessation of VLCKD, hypogonadal subjects achieved a higher percentage of total weight loss (8.5% ± 1.5%), a greater reduction in weight (−9.94 ± 1.66 kg), fat mass (−7 ± 2.1 kg) and waist circumference (−6.31 ± 2.65 cm) and a greater improvement in glycaemia (−8.75 ± 10.92 mg/dl) as compared with eugonadal subjects. Furthermore, hypogonadal subjects exhibited a trend of higher TT increase (+98.12 ± 71.51 ng/dl) as compared with eugonadal subjects.

Conclusions

VLCKD results in rapid improvements in TT levels associated with weight loss in male obese non‐diabetic subjects, particularly in the presence of obesity‐related hypogonadism.
A Nordic screening guideline for juvenile idiopathic arthritis‐related uveitis
Authors: Leinonen Sanna
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this perspective was to shed light on screening of uveitis among Nordic children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA).

Methods

A literature search was conducted to review predictors of JIA‐uveitis and previous JIA‐uveitis screening recommendations.

Results

Predictors of uveitis in JIA are younger age and positive antinuclear antibody titre at onset of JIA, specific subtypes of JIA (extended and persistent oligoarthritis, rheumatoid factor negative polyarthritis and psoriatic arthritis) and short duration of JIA. Methotrexate and monoclonal tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor treatment reduce the risk JIA‐uveitis.

Conclusion

Children with all of the above risk factors should be screened frequently but if they receive TNF inhibitor or methotrexate therapy, they may be screened less frequently. Children with none of the risk factors do not benefit from long‐term screening for uveitis. A guideline for intervals and overall length of screening was prepared considering currently known risk factors for JIA‐uveitis, the Nordic population and previous guidelines.
Effect of a strong CYP3A4 inhibitor and inducer on the pharmacokinetics of senaparib (IMP4297) in healthy volunteers: A drug–drug interaction study
Authors: Hu Xiaolei , Hsieh Chih‐Yi , Zhang Yanxin , Liu Wanli , Xu Sumei , Cai Sui Xiong , Liu Lan , Zhang Ming , Shi Huiyan , Zhang Hongxia , Liu Ping , Li Xiaomin , Xu Pingsheng
Published: December 2022

Aims

A phase I open‐label study assessed the effect of multiple oral doses of a potent CYP3A4 inhibitor (itraconazole) and inducer (rifampicin) on the pharmacokinetic profile of a single oral dose of senaparib, a novel, highly potent poly‐(ADP‐ribose) polymerase 1/2 inhibitor and CYP3A4 substrate, in Chinese healthy male volunteers (HMV).

Methods

Adult HMV were enrolled to the itraconazole or rifampicin group (n = 16 each). In Period 1, all participants received a single oral dose of senaparib 40 mg (itraconazole group) or 100 mg (rifampicin group). In Period 2, the same dose was coadministered with itraconazole (200 mg) and rifampicin (600 mg), respectively. The primary endpoints were senaparib exposure parameters.

Results

Coadministration with itraconazole significantly increased exposure of senaparib and decreased that of its major metabolites M9 and M14. Maximum plasma senaparib concentration (Cmax) was increased by ~79% and area under the concentration–time curve (AUC) increased by ~2.8‐fold. Coadministration with rifampicin significantly reduced the Cmax and AUC of senaparib by ~59 and 83%, respectively. The Cmax for both M9 and M14 was slightly increased, although AUC was decreased. All treatment‐emergent adverse events were grade ≤2, regardless of the treatment administered.

Conclusion

In Chinese HMV, the exposure of senaparib was significantly increased when coadministered with itraconazole and significantly decreased when coadministered with rifampicin. It is recommended to avoid concomitant use of senaparib and strong inhibitors or inducers of CYP3A4.
Which method delivers greater signal‐to‐noise ratio: Structural equation modelling or regression analysis with weighted composites?
Authors: Yuan Ke‐Hai , Fang Yongfei
Published: December 2022

Observational data typically contain measurement errors. Covariance‐based structural equation modelling (CB‐SEM) is capable of modelling measurement errors and yields consistent parameter estimates. In contrast, methods of regression analysis using weighted composites as well as a partial least squares approach to SEM facilitate the prediction and diagnosis of individuals/participants. But regression analysis with weighted composites has been known to yield attenuated regression coefficients when predictors contain errors. Contrary to the common belief that CB‐SEM is the preferred method for the analysis of observational data, this article shows that regression analysis via weighted composites yields parameter estimates with much smaller standard errors, and thus corresponds to greater values of the signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR). In particular, the SNR for the regression coefficient via the least squares (LS) method with equally weighted composites is mathematically greater than that by CB‐SEM if the items for each factor are parallel, even when the SEM model is correctly specified and estimated by an efficient method. Analytical, numerical and empirical results also show that LS regression using weighted composites performs as well as or better than the normal maximum likelihood method for CB‐SEM under many conditions even when the population distribution is multivariate normal. Results also show that the LS regression coefficients become more efficient when considering the sampling errors in the weights of composites than those that are conditional on weights.