bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Canary Mating Season Songs Move Between Order and Disorder
Authors: Levin S. , Cohen Y.
Published: October 2024

Many complex behaviors involve sequences of basic motor or vocal elements governed by syntactic rules, which facilitate flexible and adaptive actions. Songbirds that crystallize their repertoire of vocal syllables and transitions allow researchers to build probabilistic models of syntax rules, providing insight into underlying neural mechanisms. However, in many complex behaviors, syntax rules change over time, such as during learning or in response to new environmental and social contexts.

In this study, we investigated the songs of canaries, a seasonal songbird species. Canaries learn a repertoire of 30-50 syllable types, produce syllables in repeat phrases, and organize these phrases into sequences with long-range syntactic dependencies. Since canaries are known to adapt their repertoire annually, we recorded their songs during the spring mating season and examined the syntactic properties that determine syllable sequencing. Over days and weeks, we observed changes in syllable usage rates, syllable numbers within phrases, phrase positions in songs, and in the long-range dependencies of phrase transitions. Acoustic features of syllables were also found to shift alongside these syntactic changes.

Quantifying the variability of these properties revealed that the observed changes were not random. Most birds exhibited a clear trend of moving between order and disorder in their song’s syntactic and acoustic features. Interestingly, this trend varied across individuals; some birds increased their stereotypy and decreased variability across days, while others adopted more disordered and variable song structures.

These findings establish canaries as a valuable animal model for studying the neural mechanisms underlying syntax rules in complex motor sequences, their plasticity in social and environmental adaptation, and in implementing individual-specific strategies.
The impact of insertion bias into piRNA clusters on the invasion of transposable elements
Authors: Pritam Shashank , Scarpa Almorò , Kofler Robert , Signor Sarah
Published: October 2024

In our current understanding of transposable element (TE) invasions TEs move freely until they accidentally insert into a piRNA cluster. They are then silenced by the production of piRNA cognate to the TE. Under this model, one would expect that TEs might evolve to avoid piRNA clusters. Yet empirical observations show that some TEs, such as theP-element, insert into piRNA clusters preferentially. We were thus wondering if such a bias could be beneficial for the TE, for example by minimizing harm to the host while still being able to selfishly spread in populations. We decided to model insertion bias to determine if there was ever a situation in which insertion bias was beneficial to the TE. We performed extensive forward simulations of TE invasions with differing insertion biases into piRNA clusters. We found that insertion bias significantly altered the invasion dynamics of TEs, primarily by changing the copy number of the TE in individuals prior to silencing. Insertion into a piRNA cluster reduced the deleterious effects of TEs to the host population, but we found that TEs avoiding piRNA clusters out-compete TEs with a bias towards cluster insertions. Insertion bias was only beneficial to the TE when there was negative selection against TEs and a lack of recombination. Different TEs show different insertion biases into piRNA clusters suggesting they are an attribute of the TE not the host, yet scenarios in which this is beneficial to the TE are quite limited. This opens up an interesting area of future research into the dynamics of insertion bias during TE invasions.

Significance Statement

This study challenges the pre-existing understanding of the TE dynamics by investigating the potential adaptive role of insertion bias into piRNA clusters. Using extensive forward simulations, we demonstrate that while insertion bias significantly alters TE invasion dynamics, it is generally not beneficial for the TE’s spread in populations. Our results also show that transposable elements (TEs) that avoid piRNA clusters tend to do better than those that are more likely to preferencially insert into these clusters. This work provides novel insights into the complex dynamics between TEs and host genomes, showing the limited scenarios where the insertion bias could be advantageous to TEs. These results open new area for research into TE invasion dynamics and the evolution of host-TE interactions, further contributing to our understanding of genome evolution and stability.
Development and Multinational Validation of an Ensemble Deep Learning Algorithm for Detecting and Predicting Structural Heart Disease Using Noisy Single-lead Electrocardiograms
Authors: Aminorroaya Arya , Dhingra Lovedeep S , Pedroso Camargos Aline , Vasisht Shankar Sumukh , Coppi Andreas , Khunte Akshay , Foppa Murilo , Brant Luisa CC , Barreto Sandhi M , Ribeiro Antonio Luiz P , Krumholz Harlan M , Oikonomou Evangelos K , Khera Rohan
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

AI-enhanced 12-lead ECG can detect a range of structural heart diseases (SHDs) but has a limited role in community-based screening. We developed and externally validated a noise-resilient single-lead AI-ECG algorithm that can detect SHD and predict the risk of their development using wearable/portable devices.

Methods

Using 266,740 ECGs from 99,205 patients with paired echocardiographic data at Yale New Haven Hospital, we developed ADAPT-HEART, a noise-resilient, deep-learning algorithm, to detect SHD using lead I ECG. SHD was defined as a composite of LVEF<40%, moderate or severe left-sided valvular disease, and severe LVH. ADAPT-HEART was validated in four community hospitals in the US, and the population-based cohort of ELSA-Brasil. We assessed the model’s performance as a predictive biomarker among those without baseline SHD across hospital-based sites and the UK Biobank.

Results

The development population had a median age of 66 [IQR, 54-77] years and included 49,947 (50.3%) women, with 18,896 (19.0%) having any SHD. ADAPT-HEART had an AUROC of 0.879 (95% CI, 0.870-0.888) with good calibration for detecting SHD in the test set, and consistent performance in hospital-based external sites (AUROC: 0.852-0.891) and ELSA-Brasil (AUROC: 0.859). Among those without baseline SHD, high vs. low ADAPT-HEART probability conferred a 2.8- to 5.7-fold increase in the risk of future SHD across data sources (all P<0.05).

Conclusions

We propose a novel model that detects and predicts a range of SHDs from noisy single-lead ECGs obtainable on portable/wearable devices, providing a scalable strategy for community-based screening and risk stratification for SHD.
Endovascular Thrombectomy for Acute Stroke with Large Ischemic Core: A Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Lin Chun-Hsien , Lee Meng , Ovbiagele Bruce , Liebeskind David S , Sanz-Cuesta Borja , Saver Jeffrey L
Published: October 2024

Background

Endovascular thrombectomy (EVT) is standard treatment for an acute ischemic stroke due to large-vessel occlusions (AIS-LVO) with a small ischemic core, but the effect of EVT on AIS-LVO with a large ischemic core remains unclear. The objective was to assess the benefit and safety of EVT for AIS-LVO with large ischemic cores.

Methods and Finding

PubMed, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrials.gov were searched from January 1 2000 to September 25 2025. Randomized clinical trials (RCTs) of patients with AIS-LVO and large ischemic cores that compared EVT plus medical care vs. medical care alone were evaluated. Risk ratio (RR) with 95% CI was used to measure outcomes of EVT vs. medical care alone. Primary outcome was functional independence, defined as modified Rankin Scale (mRS) of 0 to 2 at 90 days; and lead secondary outcome was reduced disability, defined as ordinal shift of mRS. Safety outcomes were requiring constant care or death (mRS 5 to 6), death, and early symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (sICH). We included 6 RCTs comprising 1870 patients (women 826 [44.2%]) with AIS-LVO. Pooled results showed that at 90 days, EVT vs. medical care alone was associated with greater functional independence (RR 2.53, 95% CI, 1.95-3.29; number needed to treat [NNT], 9) and reduced disability (common odds ratio 1.63, 95% CI 1.38-1.93; NNT, 4). EVT vs. medical care alone was associated with a lower risk of requring constant care or death (RR 0.74, 95% CI 0.66 to 0.84; NNT, 7). The rates of death and early sICH were not significantly different between the EVT and medical care alone groups.

Conclusions

EVT combined with medical care compared with medical care alone may be associated with improved functional outcomes and reduced severe disability or death at 90 days for acute stroke with large ischemic cores.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42024514605
Toxic Metals Impact Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Risk in Five African-Origin Populations
Authors: Jorgensen Julianne A. , Choo-Kang Candice , Wang Luyu , Issa Lina , Gilbert Jack A. , Ecklu-Mensah Gertrude , Luke Amy , Bedu-Addo Kweku , Forrester Terrence , Bovet Pascal , Lambert Estelle V. , Rae Dale , Argos Maria , Kelly Tanika N. , Sargis Robert M. , Dugas Lara R. , Dai Yang , Layden Brian T.
Published: October 2024

Exposure to toxic metals impacts obesity and type 2 diabetes (T2DM) risk. Yet, the underlying mechanisms remain largely unknown. Gut microbiota has been strongly associated with progression of cardiometabolic risk. To determine whether high metal exposures and gut dysbiosis interact to promote metabolic dysregulation and cardiometabolic risk, we assessed relationships between these factors. We analyzed cross-sectional associations between arsenic, lead, mercury, cadmium, and cardiometabolic health markers in 178 randomly selected African-origin adults (52% female, 51% obese, mean age=43.0±6.4 years) from Ghana, South Africa, Seychelles, Jamaica, and USA. Metal levels were dichotomized to high or low at the median level of each metal. We analyzed associations between gut microbiome taxa, metal levels, clinical measures (BMI, fasting blood glucose, and blood pressure) and diagnoses (hypertension, obesity, and diabetes status). High vs. low lead and arsenic exposures had a significant effect on beta diversity (p <0.05). 71 taxa were associated with high lead levels: 30 with elevated BMI, 22 with T2DM, and 23 with elevated fasting blood glucose (p<0.05). 115 taxa were associated with high arsenic levels: 32 with elevated BMI, 33 with T2DM, and 26 with elevated blood glucose (p<0.05). Of the taxa associated with high lead and arsenic exposure and either elevated BMI or fasting blood glucose, porphyrin metabolism was the most enriched metabolic pathway. These data collectively provide the first findings in a human study that the gut microbiome may drive the association between lead and arsenic exposure and obesity and T2DM risk.
Understanding Public Attitudes Towards Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in Japan: Insights from Social Media Stance Analysis Using Large Language Models
Authors: Liu Junyu , Niu Qian , Nagai-Tanima Momoko , Aoyama Tomoki
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite the reinstatement of proactive human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine recommendations in 2022, Japan continues to face persistently low HPV vaccination rates, posing significant public health challenges. Misinformation, complacency, and accessibility issues have been identified as key factors undermining vaccine uptake.

Objective

This study aims to understand how factors such as misinformation, public health events, and attitudes toward other vaccines, like COVID-19, influence HPV vaccine hesitancy, by analyzing the evolution of public attitudes towards HPV vaccination in Japan by examining social media content.

Methods

We collected tweets related to HPV vaccine from 2011 to 2021. Traditional natural language processing (NLP) methods and large language models (LLMs) was utilized to perform stance analysis on collected data. The analysis included stance identification, time series analysis, topic modeling, and logic analysis. We framed our findings within the context of the WHO’s 3Cs model—Confidence, Complacency, and Convenience.

Results

Public confidence in the HPV vaccine fluctuated in response to government policies and media events, with misinformation playing a critical role in eroding trust. Complacency increased following the suspension of recommendations in 2013 but decreased as advocacy resumed in 2020. Accessibility (Convenience) was also found to be a key determinant of vaccination uptake. HPV vaccines are often used as supportive evidence towards other vaccines, such as COVID-19.

Conclusions

Our findings underscore the importance of targeted public health interventions to restore and maintain vaccine confidence in Japan. While vaccine confidence has shown a slow increase, sustained efforts are necessary to secure long-term improvements. Confidence in one vaccine may positively influence perceptions of other vaccines. Addressing misinformation, reducing complacency, and enhancing vaccine accessibility are key strategies to improve uptake. Increased confidence in HPV vaccines appeared to have a positive influence on confidence in other vaccines, such as COVID-19. This study also demonstrates the utility of LLMs in offering a deeper understanding of public health attitudes. To effectively combat vaccine hesitancy and improve coverage, interventions must prioritize consistent communication, localized strategies, and an integrated approach to vaccine narratives.
Kinesin Autoinhibition Requires Elbow Phosphorylation
Authors: Chen Guanghan , Guo Zhengyang , Zhu Zhiwen , Xie Shanshan , Zhou Tianjing , Ou Guangshuo
Published: October 2024

Kinesin motor proteins facilitate microtubule-based transport by converting chemical energy into mechanic forces, but this activity is autoinhibited until cargo is loaded. Regulatory mechanisms underlying this autoinhibitory conformation are not well understood. Here, we show that a NEver in mitosis Kinase NEKL-3 directly phosphorylates a flexible elbow region between two coiled coil domains connecting the motor head and tail of an intraflagellar transport kinesin, OSM-3. The phosphor dead (PD) mutation, but not phosphor mimic (PM) mutation, induce constitutive motility of OSM-3 in vitro. Using knock-in animals, we discovered that both PD and PM mutations shorten the C. elegans sensory cilia. The hyperactive OSM-3PD fails to enter cilia and abnormally accumulates in neurites, mimicking another hyperactive mutation, OSM-3G444E. Conversely, OSM-3PM enters cilia but moves at a reduced speed, indicating an inhibitory role of elbow phosphorylation in kinesin motility. These findings highlight the crucial role of elbow phosphorylation in regulating kinesin autoinhibition.
Investigation on the bottom analogs
Tbb−
of
Tcc+
Authors: Ren Yu-Shan , Wang Guang-Juan , Yang Zhi , Wu Jia-Jun
Published: October 2024

We investigate the doubly bottom state Tbb− composed of two bottom mesons with JP=1+. The potentials are obtained using the one-boson exchange model. With the heavy quark flavor symmetry, all the parameters in the model are determined by fitting the experimental data of doubly charmed state Tcc+ from our previous work. Our analysis indicates that the isospin symmetry is well preserved. We identify a deeply bound Tbb− state with quantum numbers I(JP)=0(1+), in contrast to the loosely bound Tcc+. Additionally, we discover a resonant Tbb− state with I(JP)=1(1+). Furthermore, our investigation into the B¯B¯*−B¯*B¯* coupled channel effect reveals its important impact. The binding energy of the bound I(JP)=0(1+) states becomes deeper, while the resonant Tbb− state with I(JP)=1(1+) remains nearly unchanged.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Decaying sterile neutrinos at short baselines
Authors: Hostert Matheus , Kelly Kevin J. , Zhou Tao
Published: October 2024

Long-standing anomalous experimental results from short-baseline neutrino experiments have persisted for decades. These results, when interpreted with one or more light sterile neutrinos, are inconsistent with numerous null results experimentally. However, if the sterile neutrino decays en route to the detector, this can mimic νμ→νe oscillation signals while avoiding many of these external constraints. We revisit this solution to the MiniBooNE and LSND puzzles in view of new data from the MicroBooNE experiment at Fermilab. Using MicroBooNE’s liquid-argon time-projection chamber search for an excess of νe in the Booster beam, we derive new limits in two models’ parameter spaces of interest; where the sterile neutrino decays (I) via mixing with the active neutrinos, or (II) via higher-dimensional operators. We also provide an updated, comprehensive fit to the MiniBooNE neutrino- and antineutrino-beam data, including appearance (νe) and disappearance (νμ) channels. Despite alleviating the tension with muon neutrino disappearance experiments, we find that the latest MicroBooNE analysis rules out the decaying sterile neutrino solution in a large portion of the parameter space at more than 99% CL.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Renormalization flow of nonlinear electrodynamics
Authors: Gies Holger , Schirrmeister Julian
Published: October 2024

We study the renormalization flow of generic actions that depend on the invariants of the field strength tensor of an Abelian gauge field. While the Maxwell action defines a Gaussian fixed point, we search for further non-Gaussian fixed points or rather fixed functions, i.e., globally existing Lagrangians of the invariants. Using standard small-field expansion techniques for the resulting functional flow equation, a large number of fixed points is obtained, which—in analogy to recent findings for a shift-symmetric scalar field—we consider as approximation artifacts. For the construction of a globally existing fixed function, we pay attention to the use of proper initial conditions. Parametrizing the latter by the photon anomalous dimension, both the coefficients of the weak-field expansion are fully determined and those of the large-field expansion can be matched such that a global fixed function can be constructed for magnetic fields. The anomalous dimension also governs the strong-field limit. Our results provide evidence for the existence of a continuum of non-Gaussian fixed points parametrized by a small positive anomalous dimension below a critical value. We discuss the implications of this result within various scenarios with and without additional matter. For the strong-field limit of the 1PI QED effective action, where the anomalous dimension is determined by electronic fluctuations, our result suggests the existence of a singularity free strong-field limit, circumventing the standard conclusions connected to the perturbative Landau pole.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Bridging the diverse leader gap in public relations through accreditation: examining US diverse practitioners’ motivations, challenges and leader development
Authors: Neill Marlene S. , Vasquez Rosalynn A. , Broussard Sharee L. , Gent Chris M.
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of the Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) certification on the leader development of US diverse practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

The study involved six online focus groups with 64 APRs who identified as diverse practitioners and APR chairs who supported and mentored diverse candidates.

Findings

Diverse practitioners identified specific knowledge, skills and abilities (KSAs) that they developed through the APR study process, which are consistent with those desired in leaders such as technical, relationship management and conceptual skills. Not only did diverse practitioners become more strategic thinkers and skilled in the public relations planning process, but they also were promoted or hired into management positions. Effective mentors were key to their success. These findings confirm that the APR can be a form of leader development for diverse public relations practitioners that opens doors to management positions. However, employers need to provide instrumental support for diverse practitioners to be successful, such as covering costs associated with the exam, providing study time and supporting their membership in professional associations.

Originality/value

Based on the theoretical framework of self-efficacy and a lifelong learning mindset, the study reveals the value of the APR in preparing diverse practitioners for leadership roles, which can be a resource to address the gap in diverse leaders in the public relations industry.
Linking authentic leadership with organizational citizenship behavior: follower’s hope and collective efficacy
Authors: Jun Kiho , Hu Zhehua , Lee Joonghak , Lee Jegoo
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This research aims to explore the psychological constructs of hope and collective efficacy as fundamental mechanisms through which authentic leadership affects follower outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation employs a two-study approach, with two samples of 481 employees from various teams in the United States and South Korea. In two studies, we examine the proposed hypotheses, focusing on the mediation of follower hope and the moderation by collective efficacy in the relationship between authentic leadership and OCB, which is bifurcated into altruism (OCBI) and compliance (OCBO).

Findings

The findings reveal that follower hope mediates the relationship between perceived authentic leadership and OCB. This mediation confirms the integral role of hope in translating authentic leadership into positive follower behaviors. Additionally, the study shows a significant moderating effect of collective efficacy on the relationship between authentic leadership and follower hope. This moderation underscores the importance of collective beliefs in the capabilities of a group in enhancing the impact of authentic leadership.

Originality/value

This research highlights the understudied roles of hope and collective efficacy in the context of authentic leadership. It offers a novel perspective on how hope and collective efficacy influence followers’ OCB. The study proposes a necessity for further exploration of these constructs, emphasizing leadership dynamics and employee behavior.
Ethical artificial intelligence (AI): principles and practices
Authors: Law Rob , Ye Huiyue , Lei Soey Sut Ieng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to delve into the ethical challenges in artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to underscore the necessity of establishing principles for ethical AI utilization in hospitality and tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative review of research on ethical AI across diverse realms was conducted to reflect current research progress and examine whether sufficient measures have been taken to address issues pertinent to AI utilization in hospitality and tourism.

Findings

Ethical issues including privacy concerns, detrimental stereotypes, manipulation and brutalization pertinent to AI utilization are elaborated. How AI should be properly used and managed ethically, responsibly and sustainably is suggested.

Research limitations/implications

Five fine-tuned principles for regulating AI use in hospitality and tourism are proposed.

Practical implications

A resilient mindset, enhancement of AI context adaptability, equilibrium between development and regulation and collaborative effort of multiple stakeholders are paramount.

Originality/value

Through applying the AI evolution trajectory model, this study contributes to the current discourse of managing AI by proposing a framework that addresses the specific characteristics of hospitality and tourism.
A review of the literature on spirituality and religion in information research – 1990 to 2022
Authors: Nangia Pranay , Ruthven Ian
Published: October 2024

Purpose

More than eight in ten people worldwide identify with a religious group. In addition, people often engage with spiritual and religious content despite having no formal beliefs or affiliations. Spirituality remains a prominent feature of Western and Westernised information-based societies and cultures; however, people’s everyday interactions with spiritual and religious information have received disproportionate attention in information and library science research. Accordingly, this paper aims to understand how scholars have explored religion and spirituality in information research and identify current and emerging trends in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyses 115 peer-reviewed articles, 44 book chapters, 24 theses and 17 unrefereed papers published between 1990 and 2022 to present a narrative review of how scholars have explored spirituality and religion in information research. The reviewed literature is first organised into spirituality-related and religion-related articles and thereafter analysed in Internet studies, information behaviour studies and galleries, libraries, archives and museums-related research groups.

Findings

Our analysis indicates scholars in Internet studies have researched both established and alternative religious interactions, and emerging research agendas seek to explore intersections between traditional religious authority and modern Internet-facilitated engagements. Information behaviour scholars have examined interactions in Christianity and Islam, focused primarily on Western contexts and conventional interactions, with emerging research aiming to explore diverse contextual and methodological combinations. Finally, GLAM researchers have investigated the practicality, suitability, and appropriateness of spirituality and religion-related service provisions; however, a clear research agenda is currently lacking in spirituality and religion information research more broadly.

Originality/value

This paper is the first review of the spirituality and religion-related information research spanning Internet studies, information behaviour studies and galleries, libraries, archives and museums research domains.
Capital structure determinants of private and public firms in an emerging economy: a panel data quantile regression analysis
Authors: Bortoluzzo Adriana Bruscato , Sanvicente Antonio Zoratto , Bortoluzzo Maurício Mesquita
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study explores distinct capital structure patterns between private and public companies, examining the varying influence of determinants on debt choices contingent upon a firm’s existing debt position.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing annual data from 2012 to 2022 for 142 public firms and 660 private firms in a large emerging economy, we use quantile regression within a panel data framework to study the heterogeneous effects of debt determinants, incorporating firm and time random effects.

Findings

Our findings indicate that such factors as size and operating margin contribute to higher levels of debt, while investment opportunities reduce the debt level. Further analyses, when accounting for a firm’s likelihood of being publicly traded, reveal that dividend payout and operating margin significantly influence debt levels, exclusively in the presence of high debt proportions. Conversely, investment opportunities emerge as a substantial determinant in all debt scenarios. In addition, we found a strong persistence in the indebtedness of companies, and we conclude that the effect of the determinants of indebtedness is heterogeneous according to the level of debt of companies.

Originality/value

This research provides a comprehensive comparison between private and public firms, not only in terms of debt levels but also in key capital structure determinants, highlighting their significance within the context of varying debt levels.
Management of adverse effects of construction digitalization on the quantity surveying key roles: a qualitative Delphi study
Authors: Deshapriya L.A.M. , Perera B.A.K.S. , Ilangakoon I.W.M.A.D. , Weerasooriya Dilan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Digitalization has significantly impacted the job roles of construction professionals globally. This study aims to investigate how to manage the adverse effects of digitalization on roles of quantity surveyor (QS) by assessing the level of digitalization of quantity surveying key roles identifying the adverse effects of digitalization on key roles and proposing mitigation strategies to manage adverse effects. It addresses a critical gap by providing a nuanced understanding of adverse effects faced by QSs due to digital advancement.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting an interpretive stance, the research involved three rounds of 16 semistructured interviews with experts selected through heterogeneous purposive sampling. The data were analyzed using code-based content analysis with NVivo12.

Findings

The study identified ten quantity surveying key roles adopting digital technologies. While digitalization has enhanced efficiency and accuracy, it has also introduced adverse effects such as increased workload, potential burnout due to skills shortages, resistance to digital tools and data security concerns. Effective mitigation strategies include task prioritization, balancing traditional and digital skills and investing in continuous training. The study underscores the need for ongoing professional development for QSs and organizational restructuring to support digital integration, enhance workflow efficiency and reduce resistance to technological changes.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s novel contribution lies in its exploration of the adverse effects of digitalization on the QSs, usage and the level of adaptation of digital tools by QSs and strategies to manage them. Therefore, the findings of this study serve as precious steerage for QSs to have an in-depth understanding of digitalization’s usage and level of adaptation, its adverse effects and mitigation of the adverse effects.

Originality/value

This study’s novel contribution lies in its exploration of the adverse effects of digitalization on the QSs, usage and the level of adaptation of digital tools by QSs and strategies to manage them. Therefore, the findings of this study serve as precious steerage for QSs to have an in-depth understanding of digitalization’s usage and level of adaptation, its adverse effects and mitigation of the adverse effects.
What use of proceeds do family IPOs signal? The influence of family generational stage and family CEO
Authors: Manzi Maria Angela , Sanseverino Andrea , Carbone Emmadonata , Kunz Alberto
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship between the family generational stage and the intended use of the Initial Public Offering (IPO) proceeds disclosed in the prospectus. With the aim to explore family business (FB) heterogeneity, it also explores the moderating role of the family CEO.

Design/methodology/approach

We draw on signalling theory and hand-collected data on Italian family IPOs that occurred in the period 2000–2020, disentangling the intended use of IPO proceeds as distinguished into three categories. We employ logit regression to test our hypotheses.

Findings

According to our theoretical predictions, we find that the family generational stage positively affects the disclosure of the investment reason as the intended use of IPO proceeds, while it negatively influences the use for recapitalization and general corporate purposes. The first relationship is moderated by the presence of a family CEO. Our results remain robust with different FBs definitions and a different empirical method.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to address the topic of the intended use of IPO proceeds in FBs. In doing so, it opens avenues for future research by enriching an underdeveloped, albeit growing, area of research, that of preparing for the market scrutiny in family IPOs.
Socioeconomic and demographic factors predictive of same day access utilization in outpatient radiation oncology
Authors: Chen Allen
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Access to medical care extends to not only the timely and appropriate receipt of services but also addresses inclusivity and underlying determinants of health. Given that patients from disadvantaged backgrounds have been shown to be more likely to experience delays in care, a same day access scheduling initiative was proposed to address this equity issue. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate our experience, focusing on identifying socioeconomic and demographic patterns of same day access utilization.

Design/methodology/approach

From March 2021 to January 2023, all patients referred for new consultation to a tertiary care-based radiation oncology department were offered same day appointments as part of a prospective pilot initiative. Descriptive statistics were used to identify factors predictive of utilization.

Findings

On multivariate analysis, patient characteristics independently associated with higher odds of same day access utilization included low-income status ([OR] = 3.70, 95% CI (1.47–6.14)) and Black or Latino race ([OR] = 4.05, 95% CI: 1.72–9.11).

Research limitations/implications

While we were unable to acquire data on actual clinical outcomes for patients opting for same day appointments, the enthusiasm for this program was obvious.

Practical implications

Patients from disadvantaged backgrounds and vulnerable segments of the population were more likely to elect for same day appointments. Implications on health equity are discussed.

Social implications

Patient-centered approaches to overcome barriers of access can potentially help ensure that care is equitable.

Originality/value

Our findings, representing the first published data analyzing a longitudinal experience with same day appointments in oncology, strongly suggest that certain disadvantaged populations may benefit more from access initiatives.
Hemp for health: a historical perspective on the marketing of cannabis-based foods in Sweden
Authors: Runefelt Leif , O’Hagan Lauren Alex
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide the first comprehensive examination of the early cannabis-based food products industry, using Sweden as a case study. Drawing upon historical newspaper articles and advertisements from the Swedish Historical Newspaper Archive, the authors trace the short-lived development of the industry, from the initial exploitation of fears of tuberculosis in the late 19th century, followed by the “boom” in hempseed extract products and the widening of its claimed effects and, finally, increased skepticism and critiques of such products across the popular press in the early 20th century.

Design/methodology/approach

A rigorous search of the Swedish Historical Newspaper Archive was conducted to gather newspaper articles and advertisements on cannabis-based foods. The collected resources were scrutinized using critical discourse analysis to tease out key discourses at work, particularly around the concepts of health, nutrition and science.

Findings

The authors find that central to the marketization of cannabis-based foods was the construction of disease based on scientific and medical discourse, fearmongering to create a strong consumer base and individualization to place responsibility on consumers to take action to protect their family’s health. This demonstrates not only the long historical relationship between science and food marketing but also how brands’ health claims could often be fraudulent or overstated.

Originality/value

It is important to cast a historical lens on the commercialization of cannabis-based food products because demand for similar types of products has rapidly grown over the past decade. Now, just as before, manufacturers tap into consumers’ insecurities about health, and many of the same questions continue to be mooted about products’ safety. Paying greater attention to the broader and problematic history of commercial cannabis can, thus, serve as a reminder for both consumers and policymakers to think twice about whether hemp really is for health and if the claims it espouses are a mirage rather than a miracle.
Service language and small talk: differentiating genuine from mundane in B2B contexts
Authors: Saragih Harriman Samuel
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study examines the role of genuine small talk in business-to-business (B2B) communication through the lens of service language. By exploring and distinguishing genuine and mundane small talk, the research elucidates the impact of sincere, empathetic interactions on value co-creation and relational dynamics within the B2B contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing an abductive qualitative research strategy, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 25 B2B professionals from Australian and Indonesian multinational corporations. Data analysis involved descriptive coding and thematic analysis, supplemented by network view strategies to visualize interrelations within the dataset.

Findings

The study finds that genuine small talk, characterized by sincere and contextually relevant exchanges, enhances relational enrichment, customer satisfaction and long-term loyalty in B2B interactions. Participants highlighted the importance of empathetic communication and personalized conversations in building trust and rapport. Conversely, mundane small talk, marked by superficiality, was found to erode trust and diminish the quality of client relationships. These insights underscore the critical importance of integrating genuine small talk into communication strategies to foster enduring business relationships and enhance overall service effectiveness.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the service literature by exploring the notion of genuine and mundane small talk in B2B communication, grounding them in service language perspective. It provides novel insights into the verbal and non-verbal elements of genuine small talk, offering practical implications for enhancing B2B negotiation strategies.
Scholarly apps: enhancing research mobility and accessibility
Authors: Kaur Simran , Chakravarty Rupak
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how scholarly apps are changing the landscape of academic research by increasing mobility, accessibility and user engagement. It assesses the role of mobile-based applications in supporting research activities, enabling access to scholarly content and facilitating seamless communication between researchers and libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

A brief content analysis of prominent scholarly apps was performed to evaluate their prime features and usability.

Findings

Scholarly apps improve research mobility by offering on-the-go access to academic resources, databases, communication tools, personalized content recommendations and integrated automated citation tools. The integration of AI and machine learning into these apps holds potential for further personalizing and streamlining research processes.

Research limitations/implications

Although certain discussed mobile apps are well known and frequently used by users, their value in the field of mobile technology remains significant. Despite their vast popularity, these apps continue to play a significant part in the mobile app ecosystem due to their proven efficacy, widespread acceptance and continuous relevance in meeting user demands.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to comprehensively evaluate the scholarly apps and contributes to the literature on mobile-based library services.
Active restoration after three decades: Seed addition increases native dominance compared to landscape‐scale secondary succession
Authors: O'Reilly‐Nugent Andrew , Blumenthal Dana M. , Wandrag Elizabeth M. , Duncan Richard P. , Catford Jane A.
Published: October 2024

Active restoration often aims to accelerate ecosystem recovery. However, active restoration may not be worthwhile if its effects are overwhelmed by changes that occur passively. Moreover, it can be challenging to separate the effects of passive processes, such as dispersal and natural succession, from active restoration efforts.

We assess the 24‐year impact of actively restoring a Minnesota old‐field grassland via seed addition of native tallgrass prairie species. We compared the abundance of four functional plant groups in actively restored plots against abundances in three reference classes: (1) unrestored plots undergoing passive recovery within the same old field, (2) passively recovering plots in two nearby old fields of similar age and (3) a chronosequence of 21 old fields within the same landscape.

Active restoration led to a higher abundance of native grasses and forbs in the 36 m2 treatment plots. Seed addition was more effective if the original vegetation was first removed using herbicide, burning and tilling. However, long‐term conclusions about the efficacy of active restoration varied widely depending on the choice of reference class.

In our small‐scale restoration experiment, native abundance was similarly high in both the actively restored and reference plots after 24 years, suggesting either (1) passive recovery or (2) local dispersal of native species from nearby treatment plots (i.e. cross‐contamination). In contrast, a comparison with two nearby reference fields suggested active restoration resulted in much higher native abundance relative to passive recovery. A smaller, positive effect was detected when we compared actively restored plots to the chronosequence of old fields. In the chronosequence, many passively recovering old fields had transitioned to native grass dominance naturally, although active restoration appeared to increase native forb abundance.

Synthesis and applications: Our findings highlight the importance of using scale‐appropriate references for assessing the efficacy and need for active restoration. Comparing actively restored plots with the surrounding landscape, we found that active restoration and passive recovery led to similar plant communities after 24 years. Because local dispersal from actively restored sites can nearby references, caution should be exercised when evaluating long‐term restoration projects using only small‐scale experiments.
Frozen dough steamed products: Deterioration mechanism, processing technology, and improvement strategies
Authors: Zhang Meng‐Li , Guo Xiao‐Na , Sun Xiao‐Hong , Zhu Ke‐Xue
Published: October 2024

Fresh dough products lead to instability in product quality, high production costs, and more production time, which seriously affects the industrial production of the food industry. The frozen dough technology mitigates the problems of short shelf‐life and easy deterioration of quality during storage and transportation. It has shown a series of advantages in large‐scale industrialization, high‐quality standardization, and chain operation. However, the further development of frozen dough is restricted by the deterioration of the main components (gluten, starch, and yeast) caused by freezing. This review summarizes the main production process of frozen steamed bread and buns, and the deterioration reasons for the main component of frozen dough. The improvement mechanisms of raw ingredients, processing technology, processing equipment, and additives on frozen dough quality were analyzed from the perspective of improving gluten network integrity and yeast freeze tolerance. From prefermented frozen raw to steamed products without thawing has become the preferred production process to improve production efficiency. Wheat flour mixed with other flour can maintain the gluten network continuity of frozen dough. The freeze tolerance of yeast was improved by treatment with yeast suspension, yeast cell encapsulation, screening hybridization, and genetic engineering. Process optimization and new technology‐assisted fermentation and freezing effectively reduce freezing damage. Various additives improve the freeze resistance of the gluten‐starch matrix by promoting protein cross‐linking and inhibiting water migration. In addition, ice structural proteins and ice nucleating agents have been proven to change the growth morphology and formation temperature of ice crystals. More new technologies and additive synergies need to be further explored.
Indirect costs assessment and intangible costs description of rheumatoid arthritis patients with biological therapy in Morocco: ECORAM Study
Authors: Zarrik Hanae , Hassani Abha Cherkani , Rkain Hanane , Allali Fadoua , Bahiri Rachid , Ahid Samir
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The aims of study are to estimate the indirect costs and intangible costs of RA in Morocco and to identify the factors likely to influence these costs among suffering patients.

Methods

In the current study, data were collected by face‐to‐face interviews using a questionnaire in addition to the patient's files. Indirect costs including productivity losses and formal care, and intangible costs such as the cessation of physical and leisure activities, family care and divorce or remaining single until menopause's age for women due to the disease were reported for 110 RA patients.

Results

The results show that among patients who lost totally or partially their salary, the annual average costs is $2337.73 ± 1649.80 per patient, with a minimum and a maximum of $600 and $9630 respectively. As regards formal care, only 13 patients reported that they paid for care services; the annual average cost was $421.84 ± 261.34 with a minimum of $252 and a maximum of $1200. Statistical analysis revealed significant differences between annual lost salary and gender (p = .04) disease duration (p = .016) and sport/leisure activities cessation (p = .08).

Conclusion

Besides the burden in terms of productivity loss and caregivers' costs, the intangible costs are considerable, especially those related to divorce and spinsterhood. These conclusions may contribute to the understanding of the socio‐economic impact of the disease and to the development of strategies for better governance of RA in Morocco.
Does increased monitoring enhance the credibility of financial reports? Evidence of auditing semi‐annual financial statements
Authors: Hsiao Hui‐Yu , Liu Wu‐Po , Wu Szu‐Jung
Published: October 2024

Due to several financial scandals of Taiwan‐listed foreign firms (known as KY firms), the Taiwan Financial Supervisory Commission requires KY firms to disclose audited semi‐annual financial statements, which were reviewed before. Using the event study, we find higher cumulative abnormal returns for KY firms around the regulation announcement, suggesting the market's positive attitude towards the increase in the assurance level of semi‐annual financial statements. In addition, we apply a difference‐in‐differences test and find the improvement in earnings response coefficients, showing the market's increased perception of audit quality. Our findings should be of interest to regulators, practitioners, and researchers.