bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
ANDROGENS PROTECT ILC2S FROM FUNCTIONAL SUPPRESSION DURING INFLUENZA VIRUS INFECTION
Authors: Kadel Sapana , Miller Reegan A. J. , Karlik Anna , Turner Sean , Williams Abigael P. , Ainsua-Enrich Erola , Hatipoglu Ibrahim , Bagavant Harini , Alberola-Ila José , Garton Joshua W. , Pelikan Richard , Kovats Susan
Published: January 2025

Biological sex differences in morbidity upon influenza A virus (IAV) infection are linked to stronger IFN-centered immune responses in females, yet the regulatory role of sex hormone receptors in immune cell subsets is incompletely understood. Lung-resident group 2 innate lymphoid cells (ILC2s) express notably high levels of androgen receptors (AR). In IAV infection, ILC2s produce type 2 cytokines and facilitate tissue repair, but they also may be functionally suppressed by type 1 cytokines. Here we report sex differences in the magnitude of lung ILC2 functional suppression at the peak of sublethal IAV infection. Relative to males, ILC2s in females show attenuated proliferation, decreased propensity for IL-5 and amphiregulin production and reduced expression of GATA3 and IL-33R, features supported by divergent transcriptomes. Equivalent inflammatory cytokine levels and viral load suggested sex differences in ILC2-intrinsic factors. Indeed, naïve female ILC2s showed elevated IFNGR expression and higher phospho-STAT1 levels following IFNγ stimulation, and lymphocyte-restricted STAT1 deficiency reversed IAV-induced suppression of female ILC2s. Lymphocyte-restricted AR deficiency or loss of androgens via orchiectomy led to increased IFNGR expression and suppression of male ILC2s. These data support the hypothesis that intrinsic AR activity regulates IFNGR-STAT1 signaling pathways to preserve canonical ILC2 function in males during IAV infection.
7β-hydroxysteroid dehydratase Hsh3 eliminates the 7-hydroxy group of the bile salt ursodeoxycholate during degradation bySphingobiumsp. strain Chol11 and otherSphingomonadaceae
Authors: Richtsmeier Phil , Nedielkov Ruslan , Haring Malte , Yücel Onur , Elsner Lea , Lülf Rebekka Herdis , Wöhlbrand Lars , Rabus Ralf , Moeller Heiko , Philipp Bodo , Mueller Franziska Maria
Published: January 2025

Bile salts are steroids with distinctive hydroxylation patterns that are produced and excreted by vertebrates. In contrast to common human bile salts, ursodeoxycholate (UDCA) has a 7-hydroxy group in β-configuration and is used in large amounts for treatment of diverse gastrointestinal diseases. We isolated the 7β-hydroxysteroid dehydratase Hsh3 that is involved in UDCA degradation bySphingobiumsp. strain Chol11. Hsh3 eliminates the 7β-hydroxy group as water, leading to a double bond in the B-ring. This is similar to 7α-hydroxysteroid dehydratases in this and other strains, but Hsh3 is evolutionary different from these. Purified Hsh3 accepted steroids with and without side chain as substrates and had minor activity with 7α-hydroxy groups. The deletion mutant strain Chol11 Δhsh3had impacted growth with UDCA and accumulated a novel compound. The compound was identified as 3’,5-dihydroxy-H-methyl-hexahydro-5-indene-1-one-propanoate, consisting of steroid rings C and D with a C3-side chain carrying the former 7β-hydroxy group, indicating that Hsh3 activity is important especially for the later stages of bile salt-degradation. Hsh3 homologs were found in other sphingomonads that were also able to degrade UDCA as well as in environmental metagenomes. Thus, Hsh3 adds to the bacterial enzyme repertoire for degrading a variety of differently hydroxylated bile-salts.

Importance

The bacterial degradation of different bile salts is not only important for the removal of these steroidal compounds from the environment but also harbors interesting enzymes for steroid biotechnology. The 7β-hydroxy bile salt UDCA naturally occurs in high concentration in the feces of black bears and has important pharmaceutical relevance for the treatment of different liver-related diseases, for which it is administered in high and increasing amounts. Additionally, it is present in the bile salt pool of humans in trace amounts. While ursodeoxycholate degradation is environmentally important, the enzyme Hsh3 modifies the hydroxy group that confers the medically relevant properties and thus might be interesting for microbiome analyses and biotechnological applications.
Worldwide patterns in mythology echo the human expansion out of Africa
Authors: Delbrassine Hélios , Mezzavilla Massimo , Vallini Leonardo , Berezkin Yuri , Bortolini Eugenio , Tehrani Jamshid , Pagani Luca
Published: January 2025

Similarities between geographically distant mythological and folkloric traditions have been noted for a long time. With the elaboration of large banks of data describing the presence and absence of narrative motifs around the world, scholars have been able to statistically investigate their potential routes and mechanisms of diffusion. However, despite genetic data allowing for increasingly refined demographic movement inferences, few have integrated it into their models, and none at a global scale. In this work, we capitalise on the augmenting availability of modern and ancient genetic data and on Yuri E. Berezkin’s database of more than 2000 mythological motifs worldwide to investigate the mechanisms involved in generating their present-day distribution at a global scale. The direct combination of both kinds of evidence allows us to explore in more depth the respective influences of population movement and replacement versus cultural diffusion on motif transmission. Our results show that both processes have played important roles in shaping their present-day distribution. By leveraging available ancient DNA (aDNA) and deepening the temporal scale of the detected signals, we reveal that correlations between mythemes and genetic patterns can be traced back to population movements that pre-date the Last Glacial Maximum and go back to at least 38,000 years ago, and possibly even earlier to the human expansion out of Africa some 60,000 years ago. Our work shows the earliest evidence for the transmission of stories and storytelling in human history, and supports the joint use of cultural evolutionary theory and population genetics to illuminate the biocultural processes that shaped our species.
A spiking LIF model captures the role of Somatostatin and Parvalbumin neurons in generating oscillations in V1
Authors: Milea Dario , Meneghetti Nicolò , Mazzoni Alberto , Cataldo Enrico
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Oscillations in the primary visual cortex of the mammalian brain have been demonstrated to arise from the balance between excitatory and inhibitory activity. Experimental studies suggest that different inhibitory neuron populations might make specific contributions to such oscillations, but the underlying mechanism has not yet been assessed.

Methods

We modified a standard excitatory-inhibitory spiking neuron model of layer 4 of the primary visual cortex and we investigated the effects on oscillations of the differentiation of inhibitory neurons in somatostatin and parvalbumin neurons.

Results

Our model reproduced the hypothesis that somatostatin and parvalbumin neurons are responsible for beta (15-25)Hz and gamma (40-70)Hz band oscillations, respectively.

Conclusion

To date, this is the simplest model accounting for this phenomenon and could therefore be suited to study pathologies in which the two populations have specific roles, such as migraine.
The mediating role of coping strategies in the relationship between illness perception and quality of life among hashish users
Authors: Khattak Alam Zeb , Zaman Sabir , Shah Sajid Usman , Fatima  , Nazir Jannat , Abdullah Mudassar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Hashish consumption is one of the most widespread public health concerns due to its extensive use and high prevalence. This study aims to investigate the association between illness perception and quality of life among hashish users, while also assessing the mediating role of coping strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Male hashish users’ with a mean age of 37.9 years (SD = 12.3) were screened from public and private addiction and rehabilitation centers in Districts Peshawar, Kohat and Karak. Data were collected through the Brief Illness Perception Questionnaire, the World Health Organization Quality of Life scale and the Brief Cope scale to assess illness perception, quality of life and coping strategies. Stepwise regression and mediation analysis were performed.

Findings

The findings suggest that illness perception has a significant reverse association with quality of life (r = −0.16, p < 0.01). However, coping strategies have a significantly positive association with quality of life (r = 0.51, p < 0.01) while subcategories, that is, problem-focused, emotion-focused and active avoidance coping were not significantly associated with quality of life.

Practical implications

Lower quality of life increases vulnerability to illness perception, and effective coping strategies improve quality of life. This study emphasizes the importance of addressing illness perception and enhancing coping strategies in interventions aimed at improving the quality of life for hashish users.

Originality/value

This novel view provide valuable insights for developing targeted interventions that enhance the well-being of hashish users by addressing both their psychological and behavioral aspects.
Engaging with AI in tourism: a key to enhancing smart experiences and emotional bonds
Authors: Chiengkul Watchara , Kumjorn Putthasak , Tantipanichkul Thanawat , Suphan Kittanathat
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore how engagement with AI mediates the relationship between AI adoption in tourism and the resulting smart experiences, which ultimately foster both smart tourism love and perceived happiness among tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 622 domestic Thai tourists aged 19 and above who visited Khon Kaen Province within the past three months and used AI-powered tools for tourism. The hypothesised model was tested using structural equation modelling (SEM) through a two-step approach.

Findings

The study reveals that the successful integration of AI in tourism largely depends on the depth of tourists’ engagement with these technologies. Greater engagement fosters enriched smart experiences and stronger emotional bonds.

Research limitations/implications

This study utilises the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) model to examine the impact of AI adoption on tourist behaviour, making substantial theoretical contributions to the expanding body of literature on AI in tourism.

Practical implications

Tourism operators and policymakers should prioritise fostering meaningful engagement with AI technologies to enhance tourist experiences and strengthen emotional connections to destinations, aligning with Thailand’s digital transformation initiatives.

Originality/value

This study emphasises the crucial role of engagement with AI – rather than mere adoption – in shaping smart tourism experiences and emotional outcomes, thereby contributing to the literature on AI in tourism.
Nykaa ruling social media platform with UGC campaigns
Authors: Vaswani Chitra , Shah Prutha , Malodia Suresh , Kapoor Deepa
Published: January 2025

Learning outcomes

The learning outcomes are as follows: understand the concept and importance of UGC in marketing campaigns; analyze the benefits and challenges of incorporating UGC as a marketing strategy; and evaluate the effectiveness of Nykaa's UGC marketing campaign.

Case overview/synopsis

The case focuses on Nykaa, India’s premier beauty and cosmetic e-commerce platform, and its innovative use of user-generated content (UGC) in social media marketing. Being a marketing intern, the objective is to critically evaluate the effectiveness of Nykaa’s UGC strategy compared to brand-generated content in terms of reach, engagement and brand attachment. The case examines the objectives behind Nykaa’s UGC campaign, which aimed to leverage authentic customer experiences to build trust, increase brand visibility and drive sales. Students will explore the reasons why Nykaa chose UGC as a marketing strategy. The case also delves into the challenges associated with implementing a UGC campaign. Additionally, the case highlights the role of social media platforms in facilitating UGC campaigns and explores the strategies adopted by Nykaa to encourage customers to participate actively. Students will evaluate the effectiveness of these strategies and their potential applicability to other industries and brands.

Complexity academic level

The teaching case is aimed at the students of postgraduate academic programs in the areas of knowledge of marketing, social media marketing and digital marketing. The case will help in understanding the user and brand-generated content and how to help companies with its solution.

Supplementary material

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS8: Marketing.
Unravelling the tapestry of struggle: an exploration of socio-economic challenges faced by internally displaced women in Bangladesh amidst the COVID-19 crisis
Authors: Jahid Anita , Rezvi Minhazur Rahman , Rahman Md. Masudur
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to identify and analyse the gender-specific challenges encountered by internally displaced women (IDWs) in developing countries, focusing on Bangladesh within the distinctive backdrop of the COVID-19 pandemic. Furthermore, the paper recommends effective strategies to address and overcome these challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

This research, conducted by the PRISMA guidelines, investigated the socio-economic challenges of the pandemic for IDWs through a comprehensive analysis of diverse sources. These sources encompassed quantitative and qualitative studies, organisational reports, publications from UN agencies, the International Organisation for Migration, the International Labour Organisation, the World Health Organisation, case studies and newspaper articles.

Findings

This research sheds light on the impact of the COVID-19 crisis on IDWs, encompassing aspects such as safety, shelter, livelihood, household responsibilities, health support, external aid, domestic violence and childcare facilities. In addition, it emphasises the pivotal contributions of government organisations (GOs) and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in ensuring the well-being and survival of IDWs.

Originality/value

This paper represents one of the initial endeavours in exploring the socio-economic challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic on IDWs. Moreover, it highlights the significance of tailored gender-specific assistance for IDWs in challenging circumstances. Researchers, policymakers, GOs and NGOs can leverage the insights gleaned from this study to enhance the socio-economic well-being of IDWs.
College NIL athletes as social media influencers: examining sports vs lifestyle posts on consumer perceptions
Authors: Schartel Dunn Stephanie G. , Nisbett Gwendelyn S.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Influencer marketing is a significant element in modern marketing. Both influencer marketing and college athletics are billion-dollar industries. As the two collide in the wake of college name, image or likeness (NIL) regulations, allowing for NIL athletes to monetize themselves and their personal brands, it is important to evaluate the implications of NIL influencers. This paper specifically examines whether sports-themed posts differ from lifestyle posts in terms of consumer perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental design was used to explore the impact that NIL influencer source attributes have on audiences’ consumer attitudes. Participants (N = 222) viewed Instagram posts of four of the top NIL-earning athletes (two men and two women athletes) from 2023. Perceptions of the posts were examined under two collapsed conditions: sports-themed posts focusing on athletic pursuits and lifestyle posts that focused on lifestyle. Participants answered questions concerning credibility, wishful identification, homophily and behavioral intention.

Findings

Sports-themed content was regarded as more credible and linked to greater behavioral intentions, including intent to engage on social media and intent to purchase an endorsed product when compared with more traditional lifestyle posts. Both homophily and wishful identification play an important mediating role in the processing of influencer content.

Originality/value

Given the recency of NIL regulations, this research focuses on the underexplored topic of college athletes as endorsers. Understanding the type of posts that elicit greater behavioral intentions has marketing implications for a wide variety of organizations interested in partnership opportunities with NIL athletes.
Mechanism analysis and structural design of parallel-driven hydraulic wrist joint
Authors: Tao Zhenguo , Li Xu , Feng Haibo , Zhang Songyuan , Fu Yili
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to design a novel 3 degree-of-freedom parallel-driven hydraulic wrist (PHW) joint, characterized by a compact structure, heavy payload capacity and spherical workspace.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the kinematics and dynamics mathematical model of PHW is analyzed based on the closed-loop vector method, screw theory and virtual work principle. And the key parameters of PHW are determined based on the singularity analysis. The integrated design method of hydraulic and mechanical systems is used, thereby enabling a hose-less configuration that fosters a low-leakage hydraulic system structure with reduced self-weight. Additionally, this research proposed a dynamic nonlinear compensation control methodology predicated on a payload model to enhance the stability and precision of trajectory tracking for PHW. Finally, several experiments have been conducted to evaluate and validate the performance of the proposed approach and the payload capacity of PHW.

Findings

Experiment results show that PHW has a payload-to-self-weight ratio of 4(payload 14 kg with self-weight 3.5 kg) under supply pressure 7 MPa. The experimental assessment of payload capacity substantiates the efficacy of the dynamic nonlinear compensation control method for PHW. Remarkably, the trajectory tracking errors for PHW remain under 0.03 rad, even when subjected to payloads of 10.5 and 14 kg.

Originality/value

This study presents an effective parallel hydraulic-driven wrist structure. This parallel structure provides a spherical workspace with flexible motion, and larger payload capacity compared with the existing robot wrist.
Global taxation issues in cryptocurrencies – a synthesis of literature and future research agenda
Authors: Bhullar Pritpal Singh , Joshi Mahesh , Sharma Sharad , Phan Duc Hong Thi , Nguyen Anh Lan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of the current study is to contribute to the existing body of knowledge by understanding the rationale, benefits and consequences of taxing cryptocurrency transactions. This study investigates where taxation and cryptocurrencies meet from an investment standpoint.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive bibliometric study was conducted to offer a thorough examination of the published literature in the last decade pertaining to the intersection of cryptocurrencies and taxation across nations. This study provides an analysis of citation patterns, prominent authors, publication trends and thematic clusters by applying VOSviewer and R-studio.

Findings

The results indicate a tendency in the existing literature to address the taxes concerns associated with cryptocurrency transactions. The findings demonstrate that cryptocurrency taxation discrepancies across countries create tax evasion, transaction risks and market uncertainties.

Practical implications

The report provides a theoretical framework for policymakers and financial experts to create a global cryptocurrency tax regime. The study emphasizes the need to incorporate technology start-ups to mitigate public safety and security risks, strengthen financial systems and provide regulators with necessary supervision.

Originality/value

The study provides an extensive on taxation issues such as tax evasion and money laundering in the context of cryptocurrency. There has been no prior effort to explore this research domain so deeply and provide comprehensive details on cryptocurrency.
Unpacking elitism: a comprehensive review of accounting ethics education research (1970–2023)
Authors: Nguyen Lan Anh , Dellaportas Steven , Phan Duc Hong Thi
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to examine the literature on accounting ethics education to capture and synthesise the characteristics of scholars dedicated to this area of research.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a combination of PRISMA systematic literature review methods and research profiling, the study collects a sample frame consisting of 278 articles published in peer-reviewed academic journals from 1970 to 2023. The articles were analysed to identify key authors of accounting ethics education research, the institutions conducting this research and the journals publishing this research.

Findings

The results indicate that research in accounting ethics education is not dominated by any single institution but is distributed across 225 institutions in 36 countries, with a significant concentration in the United States. Additionally, most articles were published in accounting or business journals, rather than in education-focused journals.

Research limitations/implications

The findings provide insights into the ranking of researchers in accounting ethics education and establish benchmarks among the institutions involved in this research area. Further studies could explore the implications of these findings on future research directions.

Practical implications

This study offers valuable information for academics and institutions seeking to understand the landscape of accounting ethics education research and highlights areas for potential collaboration and development.

Originality/value

This paper addresses a gap in the literature by providing a comprehensive synthesis of the existing research on accounting ethics education and the scholarly community surrounding it.
Grit and individual entrepreneurial orientation: are passion and perseverance the basis for entrepreneurial performance?
Authors: Bittencourt Bruno Anicet , Milleto Lucca , Avila Freischlag Bruno Luis
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the relationship between grit and individual entrepreneurial orientation (IEO) of Brazilian startup founders.

Design/methodology/approach

To understand the relationship between IEO and grit, a quantitative and descriptive research was conducted with 124 founders of Brazilian startups through T-test and analysis of variance analyses.

Findings

The authors evidenced that perseverance has a greater correlation with IEO than passion. It was also identified that the perseverance of novice entrepreneurs is lower than that of established ones.

Practical implications

The authors contribute to advancing the prediction of entrepreneurial success. Furthermore, this study contributes to a discussion about behaviours that influence entrepreneurial performance. In the managerial field, it provides inputs to guide entrepreneurial training and development programmes.

Originality/value

The results of this research contribute to a discussion and reflection on the importance of passion for business and how to ensure greater perseverance in entrepreneurs.
The rising appeal of creative industry for women entrepreneurs: an exploratory study of rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Authors: Haram Hina , Gohar Madiha , Abrar Ayesha
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The current research study aims to explore the rising appeal of creative industry for institutionally embedded women entrepreneurs of rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative research methodology is adopted to conduct the research study. Primary data is collected through in-depth interviews with 38 women entrepreneurs working in two sectors of creative industry in rural Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Findings

The research study explored creative industry as the most informal, non-traditional, low cost, flexible and convenient business sector for institutionally embedded Pukhtoon women entrepreneurs of rural KP.

Practical implications

The study draws the attention of policymakers and government to consider the informal norms in which women entrepreneurship is deeply embedded, while making entrepreneurship development policies and programs. The research study drives the attention of government toward making entrepreneurial education and training facilities easily available so that the skill and talent of women entrepreneurs can be more polished and enhanced. It further suggests that if the policymakers and Government of Pakistan take positive initiations and recognize the paramount importance, the creative industry of Pakistan has the potential of contributing toward uplifting of the economy.

Originality/value

The study helps in identifying the prevailing social and cultural norms in KP that shapes the choice of women entrepreneurs toward entrepreneurship in creative industry. It emphasizes to understand the reasons, for which women in KP, opt to open their entrepreneurial ventures in creative industry.
Leveraging AI in recruitment: enhancing intellectual capital through resource-based view and dynamic capability framework
Authors: Sandeep M.M. , Lavanya V. , Balakrishnan Janarthanan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The rapid evolution of artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing organizational operations and altering competitive landscapes. This study examines the influence of organizational resources on AI adoption in recruitment, focusing on their role in achieving competitive advantage through effective implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This research utilizes a cross-sectional quantitative approach, applying partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to data from 290 human resource (HR) professionals. It is grounded in the resource-based view (RBV) and dynamic capability framework (DCF).

Findings

The results reveal that HR competencies and open innovation significantly influence dynamic capabilities, which are essential for AI integration, supported by financial support and information technology (IT) infrastructure. These capabilities enable effective AI adoption, leading to a competitive advantage.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional data in this study captures the current landscape of AI adoption in recruitment, providing a snapshot of the present scenario in a rapidly evolving technological environment.

Practical implications

This study offers HR professionals and managers strategic guidance on effectively integrating AI into recruitment processes. By enhancing HR competencies, fostering collaboration and ensuring sufficient financial and infrastructural support, organizations can navigate AI adoption challenges and secure a competitive advantage in a rapidly evolving technological landscape.

Social implications

The adoption of AI in recruitment can reduce biases, enhance diversity and improve fairness through standardized assessments. However, as AI technologies evolve, continuous human oversight is essential to ensure ethical use and to modify AI systems as needed, further reducing biases and addressing societal concerns in AI-driven recruitment processes.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel framework that underscores the importance of integrating human expertise with advanced technological tools to ensure successful AI implementation. A key contribution is that HR professionals not only facilitate AI integration but also ensure accuracy, accountability and configure the most suitable AI tools for recruitment by collaborating with AI developers to meet the specific needs of the organization.
Strategic human resources management in times of economic uncertainty: a lifebuoy for employees?
Authors: Mousa Mohamed , Arslan Ahmad
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Drawing on social exchange and street-level bureaucracy (SLB) theories, the authors of the present paper seek to identify how public banks in Egypt strategically manage their frontline employees to maintain high performance even during periods of economic uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical sample comprises semi-structured interviews with 28 frontline employees working in 4 public banks. The authors used the Gioia mechanism to analyze their data.

Findings

The authors identified job-related (discretionary power of bank employees, nature of banking jobs and hiring elite individuals for banking jobs); learning-related (continuous learning of bank employees, spread of MBA programs and resilience of bank employees) and context-related categories of factors (career support and more financial rewards during economic uncertainty) that explain the stability of the performance of the frontline bank employees addressed in this study despite the economic uncertainty their country is passing through.

Practical implications

Given the findings of the present paper, the authors propose that the administration of the addressed banks maintain the policy of providing training opportunities to their employees. However, such training should pay more attention to issues such as crisis management, customer-employee engagement and the mental health of employees during crises, among others. Second, as dissatisfaction is very high with other public sector organizations in Egypt, their top management should try to learn from public banks, follow the best practices and collaborate with them to improve their service offerings to the citizens. Finally, for global financial institutions such as the International Monetary Fund who are involved in rescuing Egyptian economy should incorporate strategic human resources management implementation in public sector organizations in their recommendations, along with economic reforms package.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by filling a gap in the literature on strategic human resources management and economic uncertainty in which empirical studies of the association between them, particularly in the context of North African countries such as Egypt, have been limited so far.
Problems of participatory processes in policymaking: a service design approach
Authors: Díez-Calvo Susana , Lidón Iván , Rebollar Rubén , Gil-Pérez Ignacio
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to identify and map the problems of participatory processes in policymaking through a Service Design approach.

Design/methodology/approach

First, 50 semi-structured interviews were conducted with experts in the field of citizen participation. This was followed by a comparative analysis of how backstage and frontstage stakeholders perceived the identified problems. Secondly, a Service Blueprint model was proposed as a means of mapping the identified problems within the broader framework of a service experience of participation. Finally, a brainstorming session was held with the aim of proposing design solutions to the problems from a human-centred perspective.

Findings

Fifteen problems of participatory processes in policymaking were identified, and some differences were observed in the perception of these problems between the stakeholders responsible for designing and implementing the participatory processes (backstage stakeholders) and those who are called upon to participate (frontstage stakeholders). The problems were found to occur at different stages of the service and to affect different stakeholders. A number of design actions were proposed to help mitigate these problems from a human-centred approach. These included process improvements, digital opportunities, new technologies and staff training, among others.

Practical implications

Public managers, politicians and designers of participatory processes can use this study to design participatory processes based on the real needs and expectations of the different stakeholders involved.

Originality/value

This research adds to the literature on citizen participation and Service Design by shedding new light on the problems of participatory processes through a human-centred approach.
Is the police service still a long-term career choice? Perspectives of new recruits
Authors: Cox Carol , Blockley Tony , Hagan Rachel , James Adrian
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This article is timely due to the current high attrition of officers (National Police Chiefs Council, 2023) and will explore the literature surrounding retention and attrition of officers, the impact of this on trust and confidence, and the need to understand the reasons why officers join the service coupled with their expectations of the police as a long-term career (>10 years).

Design/methodology/approach

This research will describe a study using a survey that examined views of 120 new recruits from 3 UK police forces on why they joined the service.

Findings

It notes that many still see the police service as a long-term career and indicate little intention of leaving, raising further questions surrounding the reasons for the current high attrition rates. It concludes with where police forces could focus to improve retention, suggesting some reasons for the attrition such as low job satisfaction, poor welfare and organisation culture, and some practical suggestions as to where police forces could focus to improve retention.

Research limitations/implications

Albeit this research was sent to a small sample (n = 127) and did not address shift work issues or welfare support, it will serve as a foundational pilot. The research initial findings can inform future studies with more detailed analyses and targeted strategies to enhance officer retention and public trust in the police force.

Practical implications

The research aims to provide insights into how recruitment motivations and job satisfaction impact long-term retention.

Social implications

This research highlights the significance of examining the reasons for new recruits joining the service, and of implementing retention strategies prioritising stability, officer support, and community engagement to cultivate a trusting relationship between the police and the public.

Originality/value

This study was designed to examine if current new police officers still view the police as a long-term career choice and to identify if their reasons for joining the service have changed with the current political climate of policing in the UK.
Conclusion: what is the transformative relationship between tourism and technology?
Authors: Liasidou Sotiroula , Pipyros Kosmas
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The thematic issue purposed explored the transformative relationship between tourism and technology from various perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

The thematic issue presents various methodologies that examine each topic. Each topic deals with an important issue of tourism and technology and provides an in-depth understanding of the interrelationship.

Findings

The integration of technology in the tourism sector has significantly transformed several aspects, including customer and supplier behaviour, business operations, destination assessment, safety and education. Emerging technologies, like artificial intelligence, are reshaping the tourism industry by creating new opportunities for innovation and engagement. The industry’s primary challenge is to utilize these technologies wisely, ensuring they do not replace the concept of hospitality or the exceptional services that humans can offer.

Originality/value

By providing diverse methodologies and perspectives, it highlights the multifaceted nature of the relationship between tourism and technology, thereby contributing original insights into how digital innovations are influencing traveller behaviours, destination marketing and operational efficiencies in the sector. The inclusion of case studies and empirical research enriches the discourse, enabling stakeholders such as policymakers, practitioners and researchers to better understand the implications of this transformative relationship and to adopt strategies that force technological advancements for sustainable tourism development.
Evaluating Ten Second Triage: A Novel Multi‐Agency Prehospital Triage Tool for Major Incidents
Authors: Davidson Louise , Vassallo James , Cowburn Phil , Bull Dave , Moran Chris , Carter Holly
Published: January 2025

This article is an example of ‘Lessons from the Field’. Recent inquests following major incidents in the United Kingdom have criticised the ‘care gap’—the time period between an incident occurring and emergency services accessing casualties to deliver life‐saving interventions. To address this, Ten Second Triage (TST) was developed in the United Kingdom to facilitate rapid non‐physiological assessments by any first responder, regardless of their profession or organisation. TST aims to speed up the delivery of early life‐saving interventions and facilitate the prioritisation of casualties, ultimately improving casualty outcomes in major incidents. The current study evaluated TST's usability through a series of live exercises involving the participation of specialist and non‐specialist responders from a variety of Police, Fire and Rescue, and Ambulance Services in the United Kingdom. Focus groups and questionnaires were used to capture participants' perceptions of TST and their experiences using it during the exercises. Results show that TST can be used to facilitate the delivery of early life‐saving interventions and casualty prioritisation by responders regardless of their clinical background, and that responders from all services are confident in using it. However, results also highlighted key considerations for the practicalities of using a multi‐agency triage tool, such as TST, in real emergencies including the consideration of key interoperability factors, such as communication, the importance of reciprocal trust, and collaborative training. Recommendations drawn from this evaluation informed the further development of TST and supported its integration into UK practice in Spring 2023.
Recommendation section of psychoeducational reports: A barrier or opportunity to promote inclusion in early education and care?
Authors: Vaags Agnete , Uthus Marit
Published: January 2025

Psychoeducational reports prepared by the Educational Psychological Service are foundational for special educational support in Norway, ensuring equitable opportunities for development, learning and participation among children with special educational needs in mainstream Early Childhood Education and Care settings. This qualitative study examines the characteristics of recommended goals and support measures in these reports, and how they promote or inhibit inclusion. Through a holistic approach, the study explores individual and social contextual considerations within the recommendation sections of seven reports for children aged 3–5 years. Employing reflexive thematic analysis, our findings suggest that while certain measures promote children's participation in inclusive communities, there is a predominant focus on the individual child. This emphasis often centres on skill acquisition and ability development through performance‐based goals and compensatory measures. However, while most recommendations are individually oriented, certain measures appear generalised and broadly applicable to most children, highlighting the challenges of addressing each child's unique needs in their specific context. The study's implications underscore the necessity for a holistic approach in the field of special education, both at the policy and legislative levels. Such an approach is essential for enabling psychoeducational reports to promote inclusion in early childhood education and care settings.
Farm size and agricultural productivity of nutritious foods: Evidence from Ethiopia
Authors: Ameye Hannah , Bachewe Fantu Nisrane , Minten Bart , Tamru Seneshaw
Published: January 2025

Agri‐food systems are transforming quickly in Africa. An important issue in the transformation process of agricultural production is the role of small farms. While many authors have looked at this question, one aspect that has received little attention is the role of small farms in the production of nutritious foods, an important topic given the low availability and relatively high prices of nutritious foods and the consequent low level of nutrition security in the continent. Using a unique large‐scale dataset from Ethiopia—one of the largest countries in Africa that has been transforming rapidly—we look at the production of vegetables and dairy products. We find a strong association between farm size and partial productivity measured in terms of output, value of outputs and profit per hectare/cow, with productivity twice to four times as high for larger farms. These farms have substantially higher input expenditures as well as differences in farm technologies compared to small ones. Our findings have important implications for the debate on the role of small farms and nutritional improvements in the continent.
Quantifying degradation in animal acoustic signals with the R package baRulho
Authors: Araya‐Salas Marcelo , Grabarczyk Erin E. , Quiroz‐Oliva Marcos , García‐Rodríguez Adrián , Rico‐Guevara Alejandro
Published: January 2025

Animal acoustic signals are shaped by selection to convey information based on their tempo, intensity, and frequency. However, sound signals degrade as they transmit over space and across physical obstacles (e.g., vegetation or infrastructure), which affects communication potential. Therefore, propagation experiments are designed to quantify changes in signal structure in a given habitat by broadcasting and re‐recording animal sounds at increasing distances.

We introduce ‘baRulho’, an R package designed to simplify the implementation of sound propagation experiments. We highlight the package features with a case study testing the effects of habitat and acoustic structure on signal propagation, two common factors evaluated in such experiments. Synthesized sounds that varied in frequency, duration, and frequency and amplitude modulation were broadcast and re‐recorded at five increasing distances in open and closed understory at the Bosque de Tlalpan, Mexico City. With this data, we showcase baRulho's functions to prepare master sound files, annotate re‐recorded test sounds, as well as to calculate and visualize measures that quantify the degradation of acoustic signals in the time and frequency domain.

Degradation measures in baRulho adequately quantified acoustic degradation, following predicted patterns of sound propagation in natural environments. Re‐recorded signals degraded less in open understory compared to closed understory, with higher‐frequency sounds exhibiting more degradation. Furthermore, frequency modulated sounds degraded to a greater extent than pure tones. The increased attenuation and reverberation observed in higher frequency sounds and closed habitats suggest that factors such as absorption and scattering by vegetation play significant roles in propagation patterns.

The R package ‘baRulho’ provides an open‐source, user‐friendly suite of tools designed to facilitate the analysis of animal sound degradation. Notably, baRulho offers similar results to other sound analysis software but with significantly reduced processing time. Moreover, the package minimizes the potential for user error through automated test file annotation and verification procedures. We hope that baRulho can help enhance accessibility to propagation experiments within the research community, ultimately contributing to a deeper understanding of the ecological drivers of animal communication systems.
Evaluating sex and line differences in successive negative contrast and ethanol consumption using alcohol preferring and high alcohol drinking rats
Authors: Smith Nicholle E. , Czachowski Cristine L.
Published: January 2025

Background

The loss of a job or relationship are a couple of examples of unexpected reward loss. Life events, such as these can induce negative emotional reactions (e.g., anxiety and stress), which have been associated with increased alcohol consumption and in turn, an increased risk of developing an alcohol use disorder (AUD). The present study analyzed consummatory successive negative contrast (SNC) for the first time in alcohol preferring (P) and high alcohol drinking (HAD) rats that have been selectively bred to consume high amounts of ethanol. Following reward loss, animals were given free access to ethanol to determine whether consumption would increase as a possible indication of any negative emotional reaction.

Methods

Male and female P and HAD rats were split into shifted and unshifted groups receiving either 32% or 4% sucrose for 5 min across 10 preshift days. Subsequently, all animals received 4% sucrose for four postshift days, across which, animals were given access to 20% ethanol for 30 min after access to 4% sucrose.

Results

Male and female P rats demonstrated a longer contrast effect than HAD rats, indicated by a longer recovery time following the downshift in reward. Conversely, HAD males did not demonstrate a contrast effect following this downshift in reward unlike their female counterparts. Surprisingly, P rats who experienced a loss of reward consumed significantly less ethanol than animals who did not. Lastly, individual measure of contrast size, or shift ratio, was significantly associated with greater ethanol consumption in HAD males only, who did not display a contrast effect.

Conclusions

These data indicate different reactivity to SNC between these two lines and sexes, suggesting different genetic and sex‐related mechanisms underlying sensitivity to an unexpected loss of reward and ethanol consumption following this loss.
Successful Translocation of a Long‐Distance Migrating Passerine—New Impetus for the Conservation of the Globally Threatened Aquatic Warbler
Authors: Morkvėnas Žymantas , Arbeiter Susanne , Kozulin Aleksandr , Riauba Gintaras , Zhurauliou Dzmitry , Yakovich Vitali , Tanneberger Franziska
Published: January 2025

Translocations are a conservation measure that is increasingly applied to assist the recovery of animal populations threatened with extinction. Long‐distance migrating passerines, however, have been rarely addressed in translocation projects so far. One such species is the globally threatened Aquatic Warbler Acrocephalus paludicola, a habitat specialist breeding in fen mires in Central Europe and wintering in sub‐Saharan Africa. The global breeding population has severely declined during the last decades due to habitat loss. Although the implementation of conservation measures has stopped the decline in the core breeding area, peripheral populations continue to decline. The aim of this pilot study was to reveal whether translocated Aquatic Warblers will return to a distant release site after wintering in Africa. Our translocation method is based on natal habitat imprinting of juvenile passerines before their first migration. In 2018 and 2019, 50 chicks (10–12 entire broods) each year were translocated 526 km from Belarus to Lithuania at an age of about 7 days and hand‐reared with predominantly wild insects captured in the surroundings of the release site. The survival rate of chicks until soft release from outdoor aviaries was 98% (49 fledglings released) in 2018 and 100% (50 fledglings released) in 2019. In 2019, 11 Aquatic Warblers (9 males, 2 females) were resighted at the release site after returning from wintering grounds. In 2020, nine birds (6 males, 3 females) were observed, including three males from the 2018 release cohort. An average apparent first‐year survival of 0.30 was estimated. The very successful outcome gives new impetus for the restoration prospects of declined populations of the Aquatic Warbler to halt extinction at the margins of the breeding range.