bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Evaluation of Soil DNA Extraction Kits for Long Read Metagenomic Sequencing
Authors: Child Harry T. , Wierzbicki Lucy , Joslin Gabrielle R. , Tennant Richard K.
Published: August 2024

Metagenomics has been transformative in our understanding of the diversity and function of soil microbial communities. Applying long read sequencing to whole genome shotgun metagenomics has the potential to revolutionise soil microbial ecology through improved taxonomic classification, functional characterisation and metagenome assembly. However, optimisation of robust methods for long read metagenomics of environmental samples remains undeveloped. In this study, Oxford Nanopore sequencing using samples from five commercially available soil DNA extraction kits was compared across four soil types, in order to optimise read length and reproducibility for comparative long read soil metagenomics. Average extracted DNA lengths varied considerably between kits, but longer DNA fragments did not translate consistently into read lengths. Highly variable decreases in the length of resulting reads from some kits were associated with poor classification rate and low reproducibility in microbial communities identified between technical repeats. Replicate samples from other kits showed more consistent conversion of extracted DNA fragment size into read length and resulted in more congruous microbial community representation. Furthermore, extraction kits showed significant differences in the community representation and structure they identified across all soil types. Overall, the QIAGEN DNeasy PowerSoil Pro Kit displayed the best suitability for reproducible long-read WGS metagenomic sequencing, although further optimisation of DNA purification and library preparation may enable translation of higher molecular weight DNA from other kits into longer read lengths. These findings provide a novel insight into the importance of optimising DNA extraction for achieving replicable results from long read metagenomic sequencing of environmental samples.
Population coding of predator imminence in the hypothalamus
Authors: Cheung Kathy Y.M. , Nair Aditya , Li Ling-yun , Shapiro Mikhail G. , Anderson David J.
Published: August 2024

Hypothalamic VMHdmSF1neurons are activated by predator cues and are necessary and sufficient for instinctive defensive responses. However, such data do not distinguish which features of a predator encounter are encoded by VMHdmSF1neural activity. To address this issue, we imaged VMHdmSF1neurons at single-cell resolution in freely behaving mice exposed to a natural predator in varying contexts. Our results reveal that VMHdmSF1neurons do not represent different defensive behaviors, but rather encode predator identity and multiple predator-evoked internal states, including threat-evoked fear/anxiety; neophobia or arousal; predator imminence; and safety. Notably, threat and safety are encoded bi-directionally by anti-correlated subpopulations. Finally, individual differences in predator defensiveness are correlated with differences in VMHdmSF1response dynamics. Thus, different threat-related internal state variables are encoded by distinct neuronal subpopulations within a genetically defined, anatomically restricted hypothalamic cell class.

Highlights

Distinct subsets of VMHdmSF1neurons encode multiple predator-evoked internal states.

Anti-correlated subsets encode safety vs. threat in a bi-directional manner

A population code for predator imminence is identified using a novel assay

VMHdmSF1dynamics correlate with individual variation in predator defensiveness.
Using quantitative bias analysis to adjust for misclassification of COVID-19 outcomes: An applied example of inhaled corticosteroids and COVID-19 outcomes
Authors: Bokern Marleen , Rentsch Christopher T. , Quint Jennifer K. , Hunnicutt Jacob , Douglas Ian , Schultze Anna
Published: August 2024

1

During the pandemic, there was concern that underascertainment of COVID-19 outcomes may impact treatment effect estimation in pharmacoepidemiologic studies. We assessed the impact of outcome misclassification on the association between inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) and COVID-19 hospitalisation and death in the UK during the first pandemic wave using probabilistic bias analysis (PBA).

Using data from Clinical Practice Research Datalink Aurum, we defined a cohort with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) on 01 Mar 2020. We compared the risk of COVID-19 hospitalisation and death among users of ICS/long-acting β-agonist (LABA) and users of LABA/LAMA using inverse-probability of treatment weighted (IPTW) logistic regression. We used PBA to assess the impact of non-differential outcome misclassification. We assigned beta distributions to sensitivity and specificity and sampled from these 100,000 times for summary-level and 10,000 times for record-level PBA. Using these values, we simulated outcomes and applied IPTW logistic regression to adjust for confounding and misclassification. Sensitivity analyses excluded ICS+LABA+LAMA (triple therapy) users.

Among 161,411 patients with COPD, ICS users had increased odds of COVID-19 hospitalisations and death compared with LABA/LAMA users (OR for COVID-19 hospitalisation 1.59 (95% CI 1.31 – 1.92), OR for COVID-19 death 1.63, 95% CI 1.26 – 2.11). After IPTW and exclusion of people using triple therapy, ORs moved towards null. All implementations of QBA, both record and summary-level PBA, modestly shifted ORs away from the null and increased uncertainty.

The results provide reassurance that outcome misclassification was unlikely to change the conclusions of the study but confounding by indication remains a concern.
Automated Craniofacial Biometry with 3D T2w Fetal MRI
Authors: Matthew Jacqueline , Uus Alena , Collado Alexia Egloff , Luis Aysha , Arulkumaran Sophie , Fukami-Gartner Abi , Kyriakopoulou Vanessa , Cromb Daniel , Wright Robert , Colford Kathleen , Deprez Maria , Hutter Jana , O’Muircheartaigh Jonathan , Malamateniou Christina , Razavi Reza , Story Lisa , Hajnal Jo , Rutherford Mary A.
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Evaluating craniofacial phenotype-genotype correlations prenatally is increasingly important; however, it is subjective and challenging with 3D ultrasound. We developed an automated landmark propagation pipeline using 3D motion-corrected, slice-to-volume reconstructed (SVR) fetal MRI for craniofacial measurements.

Methods

A literature review and expert consensus identified 31 craniofacial biometrics for fetal MRI. An MRI atlas with defined anatomical landmarks served as a template for subject registration, auto-labelling, and biometric calculation. We assessed 108 healthy controls and 24 fetuses with Down syndrome (T21) in the third trimester (29-36 weeks gestational age, GA) to identify meaningful biometrics in T21. Reliability and reproducibility were evaluated in 10 random datasets by four observers.

Results

Automated labels were produced for all 132 subjects with a 0.03% placement error rate. Seven measurements, including anterior base of skull length and maxillary length, showed significant differences with large effect sizes between T21 and control groups (ANOVA, p<0.001). Manual measurements took 25-35 minutes per case, while automated extraction took approximately 5 minutes. Bland-Altman plots showed agreement within manual observer ranges except for mandibular width, which had higher variability. Extended GA growth charts (19-39 weeks), based on 280 control fetuses, were produced for future research.

Conclusion

This is the first automated atlas-based protocol using 3D SVR MRI for fetal craniofacial biometrics, accurately revealing morphological craniofacial differences in a T21 cohort. Future work should focus on improving measurement reliability, larger clinical cohorts, and technical advancements, to enhance prenatal care and phenotypic characterisation.
Three Year Outcomes after Programmatic Transitioning to Dolutegravir in the Context of Severe Civil Unrest in Haiti
Authors: Liautaud Bernard , Chico Ana Sanchez , Macius Youry , Joseph Patrice , Reeder Harrison , Bolas Theo , Marcelin Adias , Moïse Colette Guiteau , Apollon Alexandra , Dai Angela , Cremieux Pierre , Pape Jean W. , Koenig Serena P.
Published: August 2024

Background

Dolutegravir (DTG) has been widely scaled-up worldwide. Data on long-term outcomes are limited.

Methods

We included all persons living with HIV (PLWH) ≥15 years of age who initiated or switched to DTG in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. We described treatment outcomes by pre-switch viral load and assessed predictors of virologic failure using multivariable logistic regression.

Findings

A total of 10,354 PLWH initiated or switched to DTG from November 5, 2018 to March 21, 2021, and were included in the analyses. Of these, 2217 (21.4%) were ART-naïve and 8137 (78.6%) switched from an NNTRI-based regimen. Median follow-up time on DTG was 2.8 years (IQR: 2.3, 3.1). Among PLWH with ≥2 tests on DTG, 83.5% of ART-naïve, 93.1% with pre-switch suppression, 64.8% with pre-switch failure, and 90.2% without pre-switch viral load had <1000 copies/mL at latest test. Among treatment-experienced patients, predictors of HIV-1 RNA ≥1000 copies/mL at latest test included younger age (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 2.33 for ≤30 vs. ≥50 years), shorter pre-switch time on ART (aOR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.89, 0.94/year), lower education (aOR: 1.31; 95% CI: 1.10, 1.55), and higher pre-switch viral load: (aOR: 7.00; 95% CI; 5.74, 8.54 for ≥10,000 vs. <1000 copies/mL).

Interpretation

Virologic outcomes on DTG-based regimens are outstanding for PLWH with pre-switch suppression, even in the context of severe civil unrest in Haiti. However, rates of persistent viremia are high among PLWH who experienced pre-switch failure; additional interventions are critically needed, including access to genotypic resistance testing and provision of alternative regimens as clinically-indicated.

Funding

None
Cognitive dysfunction following brain trauma results from sex-specific reactivation of the developmental pruning processes
Authors: Arizanovska Dena , Dallera Carlos A. , Folorunso Oluwarotimi O. , Bush Gerald F. , Frye Jennifer B. , Doyle Kristian P. , Jagid Jonathan R. , Wolosker Herman , Monaco Bernardo A. , Cordeiro Joacir Graciolli , Atkins Coleen M. , Griswold Anthony J. , Liebl Daniel J.
Published: August 2024

Cognitive losses resulting from severe brain trauma have long been associated with the focal region of tissue damage, leading to devastating functional impairment. For decades, researchers have focused on the sequelae of cellular alterations that exist within the perilesional tissues; however, few clinical trials have been successful. Here, we employed a mouse brain injury model that resulted in expansive synaptic damage to regions outside the focal injury. Our findings demonstrate that synaptic damage results from the prolonged increase in D-serine release from activated microglia and astrocytes, which leads to hyperactivation of perisynaptic NMDARs, tagging of damaged synapses by complement components, and the reactivation of developmental pruning processes. We show that this mechanistic pathway is reversible at several stages within a prolonged and progressive period of synaptic loss. Importantly, these key factors are present in acutely injured brain tissue acquired from patients with brain injury, which supports a therapeutic neuroprotective strategy.
Axonal mitochondria regulate gentle touch response through control of axonal actin dynamics
Authors: Hegde Sneha , Modi Souvik , Deihl Ennis W. , Glomb Oliver Vinzenz , Yogev Shaul , Hoerndli Frederic J. , Koushika Sandhya P.
Published: August 2024

Actin in neuronal processes is both stable and dynamic. The origin & functional roles of the different pools of actin is not well understood. We find that mutants that lack mitochondria,ric-7andmtx-2; miro-1, in neuronal processes also lack dynamic actin. Mitochondria can regulate actin dynamics upto a distance ∼80 μm along the neuronal process. Absence of axonal mitochondria and dynamic actin does not markedly alter the Spectrin Membrane Periodic Skeleton (MPS) in touch receptor neurons (TRNs). Restoring mitochondria inTRNs cell autonomously restores dynamic actin in asod-2dependent manner. We find that dynamic actin is necessary and sufficient for the localization of gap junction proteins in the TRNs and for theC. elegansgentle touch response. We identify anin vivomechanism by which axonal mitochondria locally facilitate actin dynamics through reactive oxygen species that we show is necessary for electrical synapses & behaviour.
Galvanotactic directionality of cell groups depends on group size
Authors: Copos Calina , Sun Yao-Hui , Zhu Kan , Zhang Yan , Reid Brian , Draper Bruce , Lin Francis , Yue Haicen , Bernadskaya Yelena , Zhao Min , Mogilner Alex
Published: August 2024

Motile cells migrate directionally in the electric field in a process known as galvanotaxis, important and under-investigated phenomenon in wound healing and development. We previously reported that individual fish keratocyte cells migrate to the cathode in electric fields, that inhibition of PI3 kinase reverses single cells to the anode, and that large cohesive groups of either unperturbed or PI3K-inhibited cells migrate to the cathode. Here we find that small uninhibited cell groups move to the cathode, while small groups of PI3K-inhibited cells move to the anode. Small groups move faster than large groups, and groups of unperturbed cells move faster than PI3K-inhibited cell groups of comparable sizes. Shapes and sizes of large groups change little when they start migrating, while size and shapes of small groups change significantly, lamellipodia disappear from the rear edges of these groups, and their shapes start to resemble giant single cells. Our results are consistent with the computational model, according to which cells inside and at the edge of the groups pool their propulsive forces to move but interpret directional signals differently. Namely, cells in the group interior are directed to the cathode independently of their chemical state. Meanwhile, the edge cells behave like individual cells: they are directed to the cathode/anode in uninhibited/PI3K-inhibited groups, respectively. As a result, all cells drive uninhibited groups to the cathode, while larger PI3K-inhibited groups are directed by cell majority in the group interior to the cathode, while majority of the edge cells in small groups win the tug-of-war driving these groups to the anode.

Significance statement

Motile cells migrate directionally in electric fields. This behavior – galvanotaxis – is important in many physiological phenomena. Individual fish keratocytes migrate to the cathode, while inhibition of PI3K reverses single cells to the anode. Uninhibited cell groups move to the cathode. Surprisingly, groups of PI3K-inhibited cells exhibit bidirectional behavior: larger/smaller groups move to the cathode/anode, respectively. A mechanical model suggests that inner and outer cells interpret directional signals differently, and that a tug-of-war between the outer and inner cells directs the cell groups. These results shed light on general principles of collective cell migration.
Pharmacogenomic Drug-Gene Interactions in Geriatric Emergency Department Patients That Have Fallen
Authors: Shih Richard D. , Engstrom Gabriella , Pandya Abhijit S. , Fields Gregg B. , Furht Borivoje , Danesh Ali A. , Alter Scott M. , BPharm Humberto Munoz , Clayton Lisa M. , Solano Joshua J. , Buckley Timothy , Hung Olivia , Farag Alexander , Wells Mike
Published: August 2024

Background

Pharmacogenomic assisted prescribing of medications utilizes individual genetic information to identify drug-gene interactions. We aimed to assess potential pharmacogenomic drug-gene interactions in geriatric emergency department (ED) patients that have sustained a fall.

Methods

This was a prospective study involving 25 older adult ED patients with fall related injury. Data collected included current medications, demographics and mechanism of injury. All patients provided a DNA sample for pharmacogenomic testing, MatchMyMeds (DNA Labs, Boca Raton, FL) which assessed genetic data for 23 enzyme systems and reports on potential drug-gene interactions for 134 medications. Each patients’ medications were reviewed against their pharmacogenomic report and categorized as Green (go), Yellow (caution) or Red (stop) based on their genetic information and published interactions by the Clinical Pharmacogenetics Implementation Consortium (CPIC), Dutch Pharmacogenetics Working Group (DPWG) and Food and Drug Administration-approved drug label information. The main study outcome was pharmacogenomic drug-gene interactions.

Results

Of the 25 patients enrolled (median age, 81 years, IQR: 76-85), 68% were female. Patients were taking a median of 8 medications (IQR: 5-11). The most common types were antihypertensives, statins, anticoagulants, and anti-platelet medications. Significant drug-gene interactions (Yellow or Red) were identified in 14/25 (56%) patients. Further, 6/25 (24%) had one or more potentially serious (Red) interactions identified.

Conclusions

In geriatric ED patients with a fall-related injury, a majority have a significant pharmacogenomic drug-gene interactions. DNA testing identifies these interactions and can assist with pharmacogenomic-guided medication prescribing which may decrease ADEs and improve clinical outcomes.

Key Points

Polypharmacy is associated with adverse drug events and fall-related injuries.

Pharmacogenomic can identify drug-gene interactions in older ED adults that sustain a fall.

Significant drug-gene interactions are common in older ED adults that sustain a fall.

Pharmacogenomic-guided medication prescribing which may decrease ADEs and improve clinical outcomes
Reducing Entanglement with Physically Inspired Fermion-To-Qubit Mappings
Authors: Parella-Dilmé Teodor , Kottmann Korbinian , Zambrano Leonardo , Mortimer Luke , Kottmann Jakob S. , Acín Antonio
Published: August 2024

In electronic structure simulations, fermion-to-qubit mappings represent the initial encoding step from the problem of fermions into a problem of qubits. This work introduces a physically inspired method for constructing mappings that significantly simplify entanglement requirements when one is simulating states of interest. The presence of electronic excitations drives the construction of our mappings, reducing correlations for target states in the qubit space. To benchmark our method, we simulate ground-states of small molecules and observe an enhanced performance when compared with classical and quantum variational approaches from prior research using conventional mappings. In particular, on the quantum side, our mappings require a reduced number of entangling layers to achieve accuracy for LiH, H2, (H2)2, H4≠ stretching, and benzene’s π system using the RY hardware-efficient ansatz. In addition, our mappings also provide an enhanced ground-state simulation performance in the density matrix renormalization group algorithm for the N2 molecule.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Modelling the enablers of organizational resilience: a modified total interpretive structural modeling (m-TISM) approach
Authors: Sethi Meghna , Sushil  , Gupta M.P.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Given the rising complexities around organizational resilience, this study identifies and explains the critical enablers of developing organizational resilience (OR). It offers logical reasoning into the interactions and interdependencies among the identified elements with the help of a hierarchical model of the antecedents of OR.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper deployed a mixed methodology research design. Firstly, critical enablers of OR are identified from the literature review. Second, contextual relationships and interactions between the enablers are examined using modified total interpretive structural modeling to derive a hierarchical model among the antecedents that characterize OR. Lastly, a survey study including industry experts is used to statistically verify the model links.

Findings

Developing resilience lies at the intersection of organization science and strategic management, involving the interaction of factors within an organization’s strategic behaviors, organizational practices, and people processes. The study identifies twelve antecedents of OR. The resultant interpretive hierarchical model helped decipher internal relationships among the antecedents. The proposed model helps determine how organizations move through different phases (before, during, and after) of turbulences and how organizational resilience helps overcome negative spirals.

Originality/value

This research is original and refreshing in its attempt to necessitate resilience as a processual characteristic needed to survive, thrive, and transform amidst business tensions. The hierarchical model of antecedents garners a better understanding of how their interactions and interdependencies help organizations enhance their capacity to adapt and build resilience in organizational systems and processes. It answers questions of “what,” “how,” and “why” relevant to theory building in OR.
Autism Ashram
Authors: Mukherjee Ujjal
Published: August 2024

Learning outcomes

The primary learning objectives/outcome of case discussion is to apply design thinking principles to design innovative and socially responsible strategies that promote financial sustainability for organizations serving unique societal needs. The secondary learning objectives/outcome of case discussion is to gain a deeper appreciation for the potential social impact of their innovative ideas and understand the complexities and ethical considerations in social entrepreneurship, especially when working with individuals with special needs.

Case overview/synopsis

The case study describes the challenge facing Anil Kumar Kundra, the founder and trustee of Autism Ashram and Autism Guardian Village in Hyderabad and Gujarat, an organization that provides shelter and care for individuals with autism and residential facilities for their parents. Autistic individuals often lack social skills and may face challenges in reading, writing and communicating. In addition, they may experience behavioral issues, making it difficult for them to obtain employment or run their own ventures, resulting in a lifetime financial dependency on their guardians. In August 2023, Kundra, in pursuit of sustainability, aims to empower autistic individuals in the ashram to attain financial independence. He envisions Autism Ashrama as a self-sustaining entity, no longer dependent on contributions from parents. The dilemma facing Kundra is the need to identify innovative ideas that will enable these autistic individuals to contribute to revenue generation. The challenges faced by autistic individuals in their day-to-day lives make Kundra’s decision-making complex. While he acknowledges the challenge, he firmly believes that a handful of transformative ideas can bring about a revolutionary shift in the ecosystem for autistic individuals, rendering this business model truly sustainable. The case study invites students to help Kundra identify innovative ideas using design idea techniques, such as the Stanford d.school model.

Complexity academic level

This take-home assignment is suitable for both undergraduate and postgraduate students and is designed to explore the integration of sustainable business practices and design thinking in a real-world context.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 7: Management science.
Hey “CSIRI”, should I report this? Investigating the factors that influence employees to report cyber security incidents in the workplace
Authors: Ahola Kristiina , Butavicius Marcus , McCormac Agata , Sturman Daniel
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Cyber security incidents pose a major threat to organisations. Reporting cyber security incidents and providing organisations with information about their true nature, type and volume, is crucial to inform risk-based decisions. Despite the importance of reporting cyber security incidents, little research has addressed employees’ motivations to do so. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the factors that influence employees to report cyber security incidents using the theory of planned behaviour as a theoretical framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from a sample of 549 working Australian adults. Demographics were gathered, in addition to data using the Cyber Security Incident Reporting Inventory (CSIRI; pronounced, “Siri”).

Findings

Attitude towards reporting, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control each significantly predicted intention-to-report cyber security incidents. Perceived behavioural control also significantly predicted actual reporting behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The results of this study validate the application of the theory of planned behaviour to the cyber security incident reporting context, also indicating that the relationship between intention to report a cyber security incident and actual reporting behaviour may be facilitated by perceived behavioural control.

Practical implications

These findings can be applied to inform the development of strategies that increase employees’ cyber security incident reporting behaviour.

Originality/value

This study outlines the development of a new tool to measure attitudes, subjective norms and perceived behavioural control in relation to the reporting of cyber security incidents. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study of its kind to identify the relationship between these factors and intentions to report cyber security incidents.
AI-enabled FinTech for innovative sustainability: promoting organizational sustainability practices in digital accounting and finance
Authors: J. Nair Arjun , Manohar Sridhar , Mittal Amit
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to delve into the intricate terrain of assimilating sustainability practices into digital accounting and finance, centring on the transformative dynamics introduced by artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled FinTech. The primary objective is to scrutinize critical lacunae in existing literature, exploring how organizations can meticulously construct comprehensive sustainability frameworks. Simultaneously, the study investigates the protracted repercussions of AI-enabled FinTech on the enduring sustainability paradigms.

Design/methodology/approach

Executing a systematic literature review, the research engaged in the meticulous identification and assessment of a voluminous pool of 1,158 articles. Using a judicious two-phase strategy, the scrutiny distilled a mere 64 pertinent articles, subjecting them to rigorous evaluation encompassing methodologies, contributions and overall quality. The Fuzzy Delphi method was used to elicit expert opinions and facilitate consensus-building, leveraging fuzzy logic to accommodate uncertainties in the data.

Findings

The review navigates the convoluted impact of AI across diverse sectors, accentuating its transformative imprint on realms such as health care, finance and transportation. Specifically, in the financial domain, the discerning eye of AI-enabled FinTech optimizes investment portfolios, augments risk assessment, propels financial inclusion and streamlines the intricate landscape of sustainability reporting. The study meticulously pinpoints research gaps encompassing investment optimization, risk management, financial inclusion, sustainability reporting and ethical considerations within the intricate milieu of AI-enabled FinTech. This research contributes to the existing body of knowledge by synthesizing intricate thematic strands, discerning overarching trends and spotlighting critical voids in the synthesis of sustainability practices and AI-enabled FinTech. The findings resonate with far-reaching implications, emphasizing the exigency of comprehensive investigations into the longitudinal sustainability ramifications instigated by AI-enabled FinTech.

Originality/value

The study underscores the imperative of crafting robust ethical frameworks for the equitable and transparent deployment of AI solutions within the intricate landscape of FinTech. Moreover, this research stands poised to shape organizational strategies, inform regulatory frameworks and guide investment decisions, thereby catalyzing the cultivation of conscientious and sustainable financial practices.
The application of lean six sigma to improve mining transportation overall vehicle effectiveness (MTOVE): a case study in mining company
Authors: Hia Selamat Walmanto , Singgih Moses Laksono , Gurning Raja Oloan Saut
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study the application of lean six sigma combined with mining transportation overall vehicle effectiveness (MTOVE) to improve mining transportation performance. MTOVE is a newly developed model to measure the overall effectiveness of mining transportation.

Design/methodology/approach

The method used is case study combines the MTOVE and LSS methodologies. Data were collected from the hauling operation during a three-month period. Various lean six-sigma tools, such as the Pareto chart, ANOVA, two sample t-tests, one sample t-test, cause-and-effect analysis and time study, have been used.

Findings

The case study resulted in improvement of vehicle overall effectiveness; a 35% increase in MTOVE value, a 17% improvement in productivity and a 9% increment in truck utilization. Statistical tests confirmed the significance of reducing the mean and variation in the hauling process cycle time, which led to productivity improvement.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides practitioners with additional quantitative evidence of the potential benefits of LSS methods in the coal mining industry.

Practical implications

This paper practically and unquestionably has contributed to the LSS body of knowledge focused on the mining sector, which is recently still far behind the manufacturing sector. The study has demonstrated that some challenges in the mining environment can be solved through the effective implementation of LSS tools. Hence, this paper could be used as a reference for both researchers and practitioners.

Social implications

The study contributes in the field of LSS spread in mining industries using a case study. This study shows practical evidence of improving overall vehicle effectiveness using LSS. Practitioners can refer to this study to understand the benefits of LSS in mining sector. Since the mining industry should also adopt the LSS principle into the mining business process due to its ability to improve business performance (Valente et al., 2020; Tupamahu et al., 2019; Zanon et al., 2021).

Originality/value

There has been little scientific study of the LSS implementation in the mining industry. This research provides detailed evidence of LSS implementation in the mining sector. The main contribution is the implementation framework, which shows the combination of newly developed indicators (MTOVE and LSS) to enhance hauling operation effectiveness. This paper demonstrates how LSS tools and methods can be applied in the mining transportation industry.
An empirical study on driving blockchain adoption in Maritime freight: an Asian business perspective
Authors: Singh Suneet , Pratap Saurabh , Dwivedi Ashish , Lakshay Lakshay
Published: August 2024

Purpose

In the existing era, international trade is boosted by maritime freight movement. The academicians and Government are concerned about environmental contamination caused by maritime goods that transit global growth and development. Digital technologies like blockchain help the maritime freight business to stay competitive in the digital age. This study aims to illuminate blockchain technology (BCT) adoption aspects to alleviate early industry adoption restrictions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a two-stage approach comprising of structural equation modeling (SEM) with artificial neural networks (ANN) to analyze critical factors influencing the adoption of BCT in the sustainable maritime freight industry.

Findings

The SEM findings from this study illustrate that social, organizational, technological and infrastructual and institutional factors affect BCT execution. Furthermore, the ANN technique uses the SEM data to determine that sustainability enabled digital freight training (S3), initial investment cost (O5) and trust over digital technology (G1) are the most essential blockchain deployment factors.

Originality/value

The hybrid approach aims to help decision-makers and policymakers examine their organizational blockchain adoption goals to construct sustainable, efficient and effective maritime freight transportation.
Cynicism, justice and behavioral support for change: a moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Sabar Sabar , Sukoco Badri Munir , Ahlstrom David
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to describe and explain the relationship between organizational justice, as an environment and as a buffer and suppressant for influencing cynicism about organizational change (CAOC), thereby influencing change-supportive behavior (CSB) and its impact on higher education performance (OP). The social cognitive theory was applied to test the moderating role of perceived organizational justice in the relationship between CAOC, CSB, and OP.

Design/methodology/approach

The research found support for the proposed model using data collected from 91 faculties at 10 autonomous higher education institutions in Indonesia and a multisource research design with a non-academic staff sample.

Findings

This finding confirms that distributive and interactional justice only influences organizational performance when perceived as moderate or high. The moderated mediation analysis findings were supported by the moderating variable of procedural justice but were supported by the moderating variables of distributive and interactional justice.

Originality/value

As a determinant of CAOC on non-academic staff in Indonesia, a country with a high-power distance, cynicism towards change is difficult to detect due to the prevalence of silent cynicism.
Artificial intelligence-based virtual assistant and employee engagement: an empirical investigation
Authors: Dutta Debolina , Mishra Sushanta Kumar
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Scholars have highlighted personal interactions between employees and their leaders in an increasingly distributed and hybrid work environment as an essential mechanism that engages employees toward organizational goals. Enhanced employee engagement significantly contributes to sustained organizational performance and growth. While Artificial Intelligence (AI) applications in the HR domain are increasing, research to understand the implication of AI-based virtual assistants on enabling trust and managing human resources is, at best, limited.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the social response theory and the social exchange theory, and based on a multi-source, time-lagged field study spanning over ten months, we investigated the impact of AI-based virtual assistants on employee attitudes, namely perception of fairness and employee engagement.

Findings

The usage of AI-based virtual assistants is associated directly with employee engagement and indirectly through employees’ perceptions of fairness. While employees’ past performance moderates the relationship between perceived fairness and employee engagement, the interaction effect becomes non-significant with AI-based virtual assistants.

Research limitations/implications

Our study contributes to the emerging literature on AI-based virtual assistants in HRM and employee engagement. The virtual assistants’ use to enhance employee engagement emerges as an opportunity for task substitution and augmentation. Our study demonstrates that AI-based virtual assistants can enhance employee engagement and help build perceptions of fairness among employees.

Originality/value

With the emerging importance of AI, there is an increasing interest in explaining human-computer interactions and their effect on employee engagement. Our study is among the early empirical studies examining the implications of AI-based virtual assistants on employee outcomes.
Legal Parenthood, Novel Reproductive Practices, and the Disruption of Reproductive Biosex
Authors: Romanis Elizabeth Chloe , Brown Alan
Published: August 2024

There are reproductive technologies on the horizon that challenge the fundamentals of human reproduction – the need for sperm, eggs, and someone to gestate the pregnancy. We argue that such technologies collectively undermine our conception of reproductive biosex as we know it. In this article, we (re)examine the attribution and determination of legal parenthood in assisted reproduction in light of such developments. The literature on these emerging reproductive technologies and practices has focused on ethical questions around their permissibility, and regulatory questions regarding access to such technologies. Consequently, there has been limited consideration of how these technologies and practices will challenge the framework that determines legal parenthood in assisted reproduction. We argue that the current legal framework is premised on a number of cis‐heteronormative assumptions about the idealised nuclear family and reproductive biosex. We illustrate three conceptual challenges to the law from the shifting nature of human reproduction: (1) the potential for reproductive biosexed roles to be deconstructed; (2) the potential for relatedness to be reimagined; and (3) the possibilities of disembodied reproduction. These challenges illustrate that we must revisit the foundations of the legal framework attributing legal parenthood in assisted reproduction: its purpose, its functions, and its basis.
Yeast extracts weakened warmed‐over flavor in surimi gels made from silver carp due to the masking effect by high concentrations of pyrazines and esters
Authors: An Yueqi , Li Wenrong , Shen Shuo , Li Ku , Guo Jiangyong , Xiong Shanbai
Published: August 2024

Warmed‐over flavor (WOF) is an off‐flavor in surimi gels. Yeast extract (YE) could improve the aroma properties of food. However, the effect of YE on the WOF in surimi gels and its mechanism was still unclear. In this study, aroma profiles, the composition of aroma compounds and aroma precursors, concentrations of WOF compounds, and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) of surimi gels with different amounts of YE were investigated by molecular sensory science and chromatographic techniques. Moreover, the effect of pyrazines and esters introduced by YE on WOF was also tested by sensory analysis. The addition of no less than 1% YE to surimi gels significantly weakened WOF. However, YE did not decrease the concentrations of WOF compounds and did not change the fatty acid composition and TBARS in surimi gels. Conversely, the addition of YE significantly increased the contents of free amino acids, N‐containing compounds, and esters in surimi gels. The contents of total free amino acids, 2,6‐dimethylpyrazine, and ethyl acetate in surimi gels with 2.5% YE were 1.5, 21, and 2.1 times higher than those in the control, respectively. Additionally, the sensory results of the spiked aroma models containing WOF compounds, 2,6‐dimethylpyrazine, and esters showed that more than 9.4 µg/kg of 2,6‐dimethylpyrazine with a baked‐potato note and more than 6.1 µg/kg of ethyl acetate and 11.2 µg/kg of butyl acetate with a fruity note could significantly mask WOF. In conclusion, WOF in surimi gels could be masked by YE due to the high concentrations of pyrazines and esters.

Practical Application: Yeast extracts could decrease the warmed‐over flavor (WOF) due to the high concentrations of pyrazines (baked‐potato note) and esters (fruity note). This finding extends the application of yeast extracts in the food industry. On the other hand, this study presents a reasonable solution for the reduction of WOF in surimi products.
Microencapsulated Asiatic Pennywort (Centella asiatica) fortified chocolate oat milk beverage: Formulation, polyphenols content, and consumer acceptability
Authors: Samaratunga Roselle , Kantono Kevin , Kam Rothman , Gannabathula Swapna , Hamid Nazimah
Published: August 2024

This study investigated the use of microencapsulated Asiatic pennywort (Centella asiatica) (CA) as a functional ingredient to formulate a novel chocolate oat milk beverage. The main objectives of the study were to characterize and encapsulate bioactive components from CA and to determine the polyphenol content and sensory properties of the beverage. CA extract was microencapsulated using maltodextrin and gum Arabic as carriers and subsequently freeze‐dried to produce microcapsules. Microencapsulated CA was incorporated into chocolate oat milk at varying concentrations. Polyphenol content of the beverages was quantified using liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry. Consumer acceptability and sensory perception of the beverages were evaluated through an acceptance test and a check‐all‐that‐apply test, respectively, to assess the sensory characteristics of the chocolate oat milk beverage. CA fortified chocolate oat milk contained fourteen polyphenols. Increasing the concentration of microencapsulated CA led to an increase in the polyphenol content of the beverage. Among the identified polyphenols, asiatic acid and asiaticoside stood out as the unique and most abundant compounds in CA (p < 0.05). Additionally, the incorporation of cocoa powder into the beverage further contributed to the polyphenol content, introducing bioactive compounds such as benzoic acid, caffeic acid, catechin, chlorogenic acid, kaempferol, luteolin, madecassic acid, p‐coumaric acid, and quercetin. Evaluation of consumer acceptability revealed that chocolate oat milk beverages containing 2% and 4% microencapsulated CA were liked by consumers. However, beverages with higher concentrations of CA were perceived as less acceptable, characterized by grassy, bitter, and earthy attributes. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the potential of microencapsulated CA as a functional ingredient in chocolate oat milk beverages.

Practical Application

This study reveals new insights on the microencapsulation of bioactive compounds in CA, proposing its potential as a novel functional ingredient in food and beverage applications in Western markets. The study revealed microencapsulated CA retained polyphenols in CA including asiatic acid and asiaticoside responsible for its bioactive properties. Consumer perception of CA added to oat milk revealed that it can be added at an acceptable level of 4%; however, higher amounts can decrease consumer acceptability. As practitioners explore the incorporation of CA as a functional component in food products, it is crucial to explore preservation techniques for the sensitive bioactive components while balancing the optimal amount of CA to enhance overall consumer liking.
Preparation of a colorimetric hydrogel indicator reinforced with modified aramid nanofiber employing natural anthocyanin to monitor shrimp freshness
Authors: Tang Qiushi , Hu Jiwen , Liu Feng , Gui Xuefeng , Tu Yuanyuan
Published: August 2024

The pH‐responsive hydrogels have potential applications in food visualization detection, but their fragile mechanical properties limit their applicability. The excellent mechanical properties and thermal stability of aramid nanofibers (ANFs) can improve the structural stability of hydrogels. In this study, the surface properties of ANFs were enhanced through modification to improve their surface activity. The modified ANFs, designated as ANF‐SN, were produced following treatment with a mixture of sulfuric acid (H2SO4) and nitric acid (HNO3), which led to increased reactivity and dispersibility of the ANFs due to the proliferation of active groups on their nanofiber surface. The preferred anthocyanin extract from purple sweet potatoes (purple sweet potato extract [PSPE]) had significant color responses to pH (2–12) and ammonia vapor. A stable dual‐network colorimetric hydrogel was fabricated by combining ANF‐SN, polyvinyl alcohol/sodium alginate (PVA/SA), and PSPE through a two‐step method (freeze‐thawing and staining). Characterization analysis showed that the strong acid modification of ANFs effectively improved their chemical reactivity. ANF‐SN was better than ANF in promoting the formation of hydrogen bond networks, enhancing hydrogel network structures, and improving the viscoelasticity of hydrogels. The optimal hydrogel indicator PVA/SA/ANF‐SN/PSPE had good color responsiveness and sensitivity to ammonia. It can also be used to further determine shrimp freshness value using a smartphone and RGB color‐picking software.
The utility of next‐generation sequencing in distinguishing between separate primary lung carcinomas and intrapulmonary metastasis: A case report
Authors: Mantri Shilpa S. , Wallace William D. , Nieva Jorge J.
Published: August 2024

The distinction between separate primary lung carcinomas (SPLCs) and intrapulmonary metastases (IPMs) is crucial to accurate cancer staging. Histopathology‐based classification cannot always determine the relatedness of multiple tumors taken from the lung. Recently, next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has been used for biomarker determination, but it also has the potential to inform clonality determination among multiple tumors. Here we present a patient with three lung tumors, each diagnosed as adenocarcinoma by histopathology with a differential diagnosis of SPLC versus IPM. We pursued molecular profiling by NGS, which revealed three unique mutational patterns ruling out the possibility of clonal relatedness among the cancers. Our case supports the utility of NGS in supplementing histopathological methods to distinguish between SPLCs and IPMs and to guide treatment decisions.
Lead isotopes may link the earliest silver hoard from Megiddo to the military campaign of Thutmose III
Authors: Eshel Tzilla , Finkelstein Israel
Published: August 2024

During the University of Chicago excavations at Megiddo, a 135 g hoard of silver fragments wrapped in cloth and enclosed in a small clay jug was unearthed in a room with an earthen or plastered floor, in a focal point of the Middle Bronze (MB) city. It was affiliated by the excavators with Stratum XIIIA, dated to the MB I. The hoard is published here for the first time, along with various possibilities for its dating, the weights of the items, and the chemical composition and isotopic ratios of a selected number of them. Although the hoard could be associated with several overlying MB II strata, the isotopic ratios of the silver, combined with archaeological considerations, suggest that it be placed in the Late Bronze Stratum IX and associated with the siege and takeover of Megiddo by Thutmose III in the mid‐15th century bce.
Identifying and responding to fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in child and family health: Lessons from an exploratory mixed methods study
Authors: Evans Susan , Lucas Barbara R. , Monds Lauren Ann , Montebello Mark
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Developmental outcomes for children and young people with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) are optimised if their needs are identified early. Yet, health workers miss vital opportunities to identify and respond to FASD due to a lack of support, knowledge and skills.

Methods

Through surveys and interviews, our study investigated what child and family health workers in an Australian metropolitan local health district understand, already do and want to learn about FASD.

Results

The study provided evidence of low FASD knowledge and confidence and a lack of referral options with some workers ‘patching together’ care planning in a ‘referral black hole’. Qualitative data provided insight into how skilled clinicians engage families in FASD assessment and negotiate gaps in clinical knowledge.

Discussion and Conclusions

Health workers in this study requested high‐quality training and the development of FASD practice guidelines to improve role clarity and clinical impact when working with FASD populations.