bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enterprise risk management effects on information systems-enabled strategic enterprise management: amplifying firm performance through strategic momentum and strategic flexibility in BRICS economies
Authors: Yoshikuni Adilson Carlos , Dwivedi Rajeev , Parisi Claudio , Oyadomari Jose Carlos Tiomatsu , Dultra-de-Lima Ronaldo Gomes
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Enterprise Risk Management (ERM) is a strategy and approach that enables organizations to manage risk strategically from a systems standpoint. The ERM assists businesses in structuring their systems to generate strategic flexibility (SF), which leads to increased firm performance (FP) through strategic enterprise management (IS-SEM) and strategic momentum (SM).

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on data gathered in Brazil and India. The complex link was discovered using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) using 330 Brazilian and Indian sample sizes.

Findings

The findings show that ERM influences IS-SEM and SM, which improves SF and FP. Furthermore, the study claims that IS-SEM can help improve strategic momentum and flexibility in the face of environmental uncertainty (ENU). Thus, it indicated that specific combinations of ENU connected with ERM and IS-SEM lead to obtaining high and extremely high levels fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) post hoc analysis of strategic momentum and flexibility.

Practical implications

The findings help executives understand how ERM and accounting information systems (AIS) can help achieve SM and SF, hence promoting FP in situation specific ENU setups in developing economies. The findings enhance executives' comprehension of how ERM and IS-SEM can significantly contribute to achieving SM and SF, thereby driving FP in the situation-specific ENU configurations in developing economies.

Originality/value

Research indicated that specific combinations of (ENU) connected with ERM and IS-SEM lead to obtaining high and extremely high levels fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) post hoc analysis of strategic momentum and flexibility.
Triangulation and Delphi method analysis of alternative management scheme for sustainable public-rented flats
Authors: Arumsari Putri , Alisjahbana Sofia M. , Rarasati Ayomi Dita , Najid Najid
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Currently, public-rented flats in Jakarta Province are managed by the Management Unit of Public-Rented Flats (MUPRF), which uses the Regional Revenue and Expenditure Budget (RREB) as the source of its financing. However, several previous studies have suggested that the MUPRF change its institutional scheme, to be more independent and not rely on the RREB as its source of finance. The study aims to identify three variable groups, public-rented flats’ characteristics, alternative institutional and financial schemes and challenges in the change of institutional and financial schemes.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative research, where both triangulation and the Delphi method are used to enrich findings. Triangulation is used to collect data from more than one source, and the Delphi method is used to gather opinions from experts and reach a consensus on the variables identified in the triangulation process.

Findings

Based on the findings there are 11 variables of public-rented flats’ characteristics, three variables of alternative institutional and financial schemes and four variables of challenges in the change of institutional and financial scheme.

Research limitations/implications

Through the triangulation process, only two sources were used, sources from previous research and regulations. In the Delphi method process, experts were staff from the Department of Community Housing and Settlement of the DKI Jakarta Province.

Originality/value

This research will be used as the basis on developing a system dynamics on how the MUPRF works as a system to figure out whether it can be changed into the alternative scheme proposed, with all the characteristics and challenges identified.
Technology-enabled engagement process of brand virtual-try-on services
Authors: Nawaz Muhammad Zahid , Guzmán Francisco , Nawaz Shahid
Published: December 2024

Purpose

New-age technologies are driving brand digitalization and influencing consumer retail experiences and consumption patterns. Although past research addresses users’/consumers’ acceptance of these technologies in retail, it refrains from thoroughly studying interaction and engagement. Stemming from the technology acceptance model, the purpose of this paper is to empirically study the practicality of the technology-enabled engagement process comprising stages of interaction, psychological engagement, value-in-use and behavioral engagement during consumers’ interactions with augmented reality, artificial intelligence and machine learning based virtual try-on services.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from an online survey conducted in China of 339 consumers who experienced the virtual-try-on service is analyzed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results support the technology-enabled engagement process of brand virtual try-on services. Perceived ease of use and usefulness are robust antecedents of the framework during the interaction stage. Emotional and cognitive aspects contribute to the psychological engagement and value-in-use stages that convert into positive e-word of mouth and buying intentions about the brand in the behavioral engagement stage.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the technology acceptance model, information systems and technology marketing literature by testing a novel technology-enabled engagement process, which previously lacked empirical validation. Specifically, it uses technology acceptance model constructs as antecedents of the technology-enabled engagement process framework, with behavioral intentions in the form of e-word of mouth and buying intentions as precedents. It also provides insights into brands’ virtual try-on services in online retail environments. Practical implications for brand managers are discussed.
AI-powered libraries: enhancing user experience and efficiency in Nigerian knowledge repositories
Authors: Adewojo Akinade Adebowale , Amzat Omolara Basirat , Abiola Hamzat Saheed
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study explores the pivotal role of artificial intelligence (AI) in revolutionizing knowledge organization within Nigerian libraries. The purpose of this study is to assess the challenges faced by these libraries, propose strategic approaches for successful AI integration and highlight the potential benefits and future directions of this transformative journey.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a comprehensive review of existing literature, case studies and a qualitative analysis of challenges faced by Nigerian libraries. Strategies for AI integration are proposed based on targeted capacity building, collaborative partnerships and phased implementation approaches. The methodology also involves assessing the current landscape of AI in Nigerian academic libraries, examining applications and exploring the perceived impacts of AI on library services.

Findings

Nigerian libraries face challenges such as limited resources, outdated systems and diverse information that hinder traditional knowledge organization methods. The integration of AI offers dynamic solutions, streamlining administrative tasks, optimizing search algorithms and enhancing user engagement. The findings of this study emphasize the potential benefits of AI, including improved accessibility, searchability and long-term efficiency gains in library collections.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the existing literature by providing insights into the specific challenges faced by Nigerian libraries and proposing practical strategies for AI integration. This study emphasizes the transformative potential of AI in addressing immediate challenges and unlocking enduring benefits. The originality lies in the context-specific exploration of AI in Nigerian libraries, offering a roadmap for stakeholders to embrace technological advancements and position libraries as leaders in providing innovative knowledge services.
The incremental information of stock options in event studies: the Deepwater Horizon oil spill case
Authors: Diosdado Leobardo , Wallace Sarah , Parker Ronald , Lam Marco
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates whether trading activity in the derivative markets, specifically options, can offer incremental information and insights into the underlying stock’s valuation beyond what is reflected in the company’s current stock price. By incorporating options market data into the analysis of an economic event, the proposed multivariate model aims to evaluate whether certain derivative investors may have capitalized on information not yet incorporated into the stock market price.

Design/methodology/approach

The existing capital markets’ literature typically considers stock prices and (abnormal) returns in response to economic events; thus, this paper examines alternative measures. This analysis introduces a multivariate regression model incorporating the put-call ratio as an independent variable and examining its association with stock prices.

Findings

This paper investigates whether trading activity in the derivative markets, specifically options, can offer incremental information and insights regarding the underlying stock’s valuation beyond what is reflected in the company’s current stock price. By incorporating options market data into the analysis of an economic event, the proposed multivariate model aims to evaluate whether certain derivative investors may have capitalized on information not yet incorporated into the stock market price.

Research limitations/implications

Access to historical option market data is not readily available and is relatively expensive. Thus, the analysis was limited to the sole event of the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon oil spill.

Originality/value

The introduction of including deviate market movements could be especially beneficial for an industry like oil and gas, where the product is a commodity, and the firm’s value is largely driven by its identifiable assets and proven oil reserves. In addition, this may provide management insight into how the market perceives actions during an economic event. Based on the put-call ratio, management may be able to predict how their actions will impact future company share prices in the market.
Assessing curriculum integration in higher education through academics, undergraduates and employers’ feedback: the case of some countries from six continents
Authors: Illahibaccus-Sona Shaima Banu , Abdullah Mohamad Ridhuan
Published: December 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the critical role of Curriculum Integration (CI) in higher education, addressing global concerns about university graduates’ readiness for the workforce. It explores the perspectives of undergraduates, academics and employers on CI across Asia, Africa, North America, South America, Europe and Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mixed-method approach, the research combines quantitative surveys with qualitative interviews to comprehensively analyze CI’s impact. Data analysis involved SPSS and thematic methods, ensuring validity through triangulation, member checking, pilot testing and sensitivity analysis. Ethical considerations included informed consent and confidentiality.

Findings

The study uncovers significant regional disparities in CI awareness and implementation, particularly between developed and developing regions. While CI’s benefits for holistic learning are widely acknowledged, few academics actively use it, citing barriers like time, funding and institutional resistance. Employers strongly support CI, highlighting its value in enhancing graduate employability skills, though regional differences demand localized approaches. Undergraduates prefer CI for its interactive, practical nature. The findings call for targeted faculty development and regional strategies to increase CI adoption, ultimately improving graduate employability.

Originality/value

This global study provides a replicable framework for evaluating interdisciplinary educational reforms. By comparing CI’s impact across diverse systems, it offers a model applicable to other pedagogical approaches, notably project-based or competency-based education, underscoring the importance of region-specific strategies in educational reforms.
Towards using virtual acoustics for evaluating spatial ecoacoustic monitoring technologies
Authors: Le Penru Neel P. , Heath Becky E. , Dunning Jamie , Picinali Lorenzo , Ewers Robert M. , Sethi Sarab S.
Published: December 2024

Small microphone arrays and sound‐source localisation algorithms are increasingly prevalent in the passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) of ecosystems. These technologies enable analysis of natural soundscapes' spatial features, yielding additional insights into biodiversity and ecosystem health. While many of these technologies have been evaluated in the field, there is a lack of controlled, repeatable methods to test them.

We developed an ambisonic virtual sound environment (VSE) for simulating real natural soundscapes to evaluate spatial PAM technologies. We validated this novel approach using a PAM recorder with a six‐microphone array, from which we extracted a typical suite of ecoacoustic metrics, including acoustic indices and avian species predictions and localisations from the software BirdNET and HARKBird, respectively. We first verified whether the VSE could replicate natural soundscapes well enough to test PAM technologies by comparing these metrics between field and VSE‐based recordings. To pilot the VSE as an environment for testing PAM hardware, we assessed how orientation impacts the six‐microphone array's performance by using the same suite of metrics to compare VSE recordings made with the array at various pitch angles. Finally, we piloted the VSE as a test platform for PAM software by investigating how BirdNET and HARKBird perform on bird calls added to the VSE‐replicated soundscapes.

While the VSE and field recordings had similarities in some metrics, including spectral composition and BirdNET predictions, ambisonics' perceptual bias and susceptibility to spatial aliasing limited the spatial analyses that could be undertaken. Our trials nonetheless revealed that device orientation impacts the performance of HARKBird and certain ecoacoustic indices, and that BirdNET and HARKBird perform best on louder, more directional bird calls.

Our results demonstrate the potential for this approach, but highlight limitations to using an ambisonics‐based VSE. We thus provide guidelines for the use and refinement of such systems towards more standardised, controlled benchmarking of PAM technologies, empowering practitioners to make more informed decisions on using these vital tools.
Plum pox virus: An overview of the potyvirus behind sharka, a harmful stone fruit disease
Authors: García Juan Antonio , Rodamilans Bernardo , Martínez‐Turiño Sandra , Valli Adrian A. , Simón‐Mateo Carmen , Cambra Mariano
Published: December 2024

The study of Potyvirus plumpoxi (plum pox virus, PPV) has a long history, beginning with its foundational description by Atanassof in 1932 in Bulgaria. Interest in the virus has significantly increased over the past decades, as evidenced by a rise in published articles, highlighting its importance in plant pathology. Research on PPV offers broader insights into the biology and pathology of the extensive Potyviridae virus family to which it belongs. The virus's large strain diversity and wide host range make it a key subject for research into plant–virus interactions, host adaptation and virus evolution. PPV causes sharka, the most damaging disease affecting stone fruit trees. Economic losses from sharka disease have recently been estimated at over €2.4 thousand million for the last 28 years. The significance of this disease is further amplified by the ease of aphid‐mediated transmission from infected plant material and the virus's ability to establish and spread to new regions, making it a global agricultural challenge. This review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the various biological traits of PPV and will form the basis of an updated version on the Association of Applied Biologists Description of Plant Viruses for PPV.
In the Mix: Patterns of Warthog Herding Behaviour in Single‐ and Mixed‐Species Herds
Authors: Jørgensen Amalie Victoria , Stears Keenan , Schmitt Melissa H.
Published: December 2024

Forming mixed‐species herds is a common antipredator behaviour of many African herbivores. Here, we quantify the degree to which the common warthog uses herding behaviour as a strategy to potentially reduce risk. We found that warthog occurred in mixed‐species herds ~50% of the time and that total herd size of mixed‐species herds was significantly larger than single‐species herds. We observed that impala—a preferred prey species for several carnivores—were warthog's most common heterospecific herd mate. Finally, within mixed‐species herds, warthog orientated themselves so that they were most commonly found to be surrounded by heterospecifics by 180°.
Temporal and Spatial Variation of the Human Placental Microbiota During Pregnancy
Authors: Liu Liping , Yin Tingting , Zhang Xin , Sun Lizhou , Yin Yin
Published: December 2024

Problem

Previously believed sterile, the placenta hosts distinct microbial species across various locations. This study aims to elucidate the temporal and spatial variations of placental microbiota throughout gestation, addressing gaps in current understanding.

Method of Study

A case–control study at a single‐center compared microbial profiles in pregnant women delivering preterm (<37 weeks) or at term (>37 weeks) across placental sites: basal plate, fetal membranes, and placental villous. Microbial abundance and diversity were evaluated using QIIME and the R package “Phyloseq,” while Q‐PCR with specific primers validated absolute abundance in samples.

Results

We found no alteration in bacterial communities based on delivery mode across all samples. Q‐PCR detected low‐abundance bacteria, notably enriched in preterm samples, especially in early preterm cases. Throughout gestation, bacterial composition varied, with increasing levels of Proteobacteria and Firmicutes observed in the placenta. Significant differences in bacterial profiles were noted across locations and gestational stages, with Ralstonia insidiosa consistently present in the basal plate throughout gestation. Species‐specific Q‐PCR confirmed the presence of Ralstonia and revealed an inverse relationship between Streptococcus agalactiae and pregnancy progression.

Conclusions

The placenta hosts its own microbiome, with distinct profiles observed between term and preterm samples. Further research is needed to clarify the impact of bacterial dysbiosis on preterm birth and develop methods to distinguish pathological bacteria from the natural microbiome.
DysRegNet: Patient‐specific and confounder‐aware dysregulated network inference towards precision therapeutics
Authors: Kersting Johannes , Lazareva Olga , Louadi Zakaria , Baumbach Jan , Blumenthal David B. , List Markus
Published: December 2024

Background and Purpose

Gene regulation is frequently altered in diseases in unique and patient‐specific ways. Hence, personalised strategies have been proposed to infer patient‐specific gene‐regulatory networks. However, existing methods do not scale well because they often require recomputing the entire network per sample. Moreover, they do not account for clinically important confounding factors such as age, sex or treatment history. Finally, a user‐friendly implementation for the analysis and interpretation of such networks is missing.

Experimental Approach

We present DysRegNet, a method for inferring patient‐specific regulatory alterations (dysregulations) from bulk gene expression profiles. We compared DysRegNet to the well‐known SSN method, considering patient clustering, promoter methylation, mutations and cancer‐stage data.

Key Results

We demonstrate that both SSN and DysRegNet produce interpretable and biologically meaningful networks across various cancer types. In contrast to SSN, DysRegNet can scale to arbitrary sample numbers and highlights the importance of confounders in network inference, revealing an age‐specific bias in gene regulation in breast cancer. DysRegNet is available as a Python package (https://github.com/biomedbigdata/DysRegNet_package), and analysis results for 11 TCGA cancer types are available through an interactive web interface (https://exbio.wzw.tum.de/dysregnet).

Conclusion and Implications

DysRegNet introduces a novel bioinformatics tool enabling confounder‐aware and patient‐specific network analysis to unravel regulatory alteration in complex diseases.
Long‐distance Friends and Collective Action in Fisheries Management
Authors: Smith Kristopher M. , Pisor Anne C. , Aron Bertha , Bernard Kasambo , Fimbo Paschal , Machano Haji , Kimesera Rose , Rubens Jason , Slade Lorna , Sobo Jumanne , Thani Ali , Mulder Monique Borgerhoff
Published: December 2024

Much received wisdom in the conservation literature is that individual connections across community boundaries undercut natural resource management. However, when multiple communities access the same resource, these long‐distance relationships could generate interdependence and trust to motivate engagement in collective action to manage the resource. To test this, we interviewed 1317 people in 28 fishing villages in Tanzania about their participation in managing open‐access fisheries and their social relationships in each village accessing the fishery. People with more friends in other villages trusted more people in those villages and were more likely to participate in collective action to manage the shared fishery, such as reporting others for destructive fishing practices. These results show that long‐distance relationships may be a useful foundation upon which to build conservation efforts that cross community boundaries and bolster sustainable resource use.
Revolutionizing NSCLC Treatment: Immunotherapy Strategies for EGFR‐TKIs Resistance
Authors: Tian Jin , Shi Zhiqi , Zhao Lili , Liu Peng , Sun Xiaojun , Long Lin , Zang Jianhua , Xiao Jun
Published: December 2024

Epidermal growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase inhibitors (EGFR‐TKIs) are the standard treatment choice for advanced non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with EGFR mutations. EGFR‐TKIs have made significant progress in the treatment of advanced NSCLC patients, but drug resistance issues still inevitably arise. The mechanism of drug resistance and subsequent treatment has been current research challenge and priority. Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) are a new choice for late‐stage NSCLC patients without druggable molecular alterations. Currently, several studies have applied ICIs therapy for NSCLC patients with EGFR‐TKIs resistance and explored the potential efficacy of ICIs. This review elaborates on the current status of immunotherapy after EGFR‐TKIs resistance, including ICIs monotherapy, combined with EGFR‐TKIs, chemotherapy, antiangiogenic drugs, and other therapies.
Non‐invasive infrared thermography for screening, diagnosis and monitoring of skin cancer
Authors: Kesztyüs Dorothea , Bae Horim , Wilson Carolyn , Schön Michael P. , Kesztyüs Tibor
Published: December 2024

The incidence of skin cancer is rising continuously. The time of diagnosis is decisive for the morbidity and mortality risk of patients. An optimal screening procedure has yet to be established. Non‐contact imaging methods are of great interest but have not yet been sufficiently developed and investigated for large‐scale use. Compared to digital photography, infrared thermography offers the additional information of heat radiation from the skin surface, which correlates strongly with malignant changes. Literature on the current scientific status of screening, diagnosis and monitoring of skin cancer using thermographic procedures was identified in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar. From a technical and information technology point of view, infrared thermography is very well suited for use as a non‐invasive, cost‐effective, time‐saving, and easy‐to‐use screening instrument. However, there is still a lack of reliable evidence and practical implementation in 3D systems suitable for mass use. Research in this area should be intensified in order to develop, test and establish applicable systems on a large scale.
Prevalence of state‐owned enterprise and entry mode choice of foreign firms: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Tan , Lin Faqin , Zhou Mohan , Zhu Ting
Published: December 2024

We investigate the choice of entry mode between joint ventures (JVs) and wholly owned foreign enterprises (WOFEs) of foreign‐invested firms in China. Using firm data from 1998 to 2007, we find that foreign firms are more likely to choose JVs over WOFEs when the state influence measured by the prevalence of state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) in the target location is higher. The positive association between the probability of choosing JV and state influence is robust after using the “156 projects” as an instrument for SOE prevalence. Second, foreign firms are more inclined to form a JV with state capital rather than private capital, which provides supporting evidence that the role of local Chinese partners is to manage corporate–government relations. We then examine the performance of foreign‐invested firms in China and find that, compared with WOFEs, JVs indeed have higher total factor productivity (TFP) and TFP growth and benefit from higher income and profits.
Exploring the Effect of L2 Writing Teachers' Emotional Intelligence on Their Professional Well‐Being: The Mediating Role of Emotional Labour Strategies
Authors: Geng Feng , Zhou Nan , Yu Shulin
Published: December 2024

With the increasing focus on the emotional nature of L2 writing instruction, chances have increased for L2 writing teachers to perform exquisite emotional labour in teaching writing knowledge and skills in the classroom, but our knowledge regarding the emotional labour strategies used by L2 writing teachers and their potential influence on their professional well‐being is quite limited. To fill this void, this study used survey data on 301 university L2 writing teachers across various parts of the Chinese mainland to investigate the relationship between their emotional intelligence and professional well‐being (i.e. teaching satisfaction, emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment), with a particular focus on the specific mediating effect of various emotional labour strategies. Results showed that teachers' emotional intelligence was associated with their teaching satisfaction via a specific emotional labour strategy, the expression of naturally felt emotions, but not through the other strategies (i.e. surface acting and deep acting). Moreover, some specific dimensions of emotional intelligence, that is, others' emotional appraisal were related to L2 teachers' emotional exhaustion and personal accomplishment via surface acting. These findings highlighted the predictive effect of emotional intelligence and the mediating roles of emotional labour strategies in thriving L2 writing teachers' professional well‐being. This study may allow L2 writing teachers and teacher educators to better understand their emotions and use specific emotional labour strategies to improve their teaching effectiveness and professional well‐being.
What Are the Reported Classroom Management Strategies of a Sample of Novice Teachers in French‐Speaking Belgium, and What Do They Base Their Choices on?
Authors: Coen Constance , Bocquillon Marie , Baco Christophe , Vargas Eva Gonzalez , Delbart Laëtitia
Published: December 2024

Classroom management is one of the main difficulties encountered by teachers. One way of improving this situation is to implement classroom management strategies that have been validated by scientific research. The purpose of this research is to study the classroom management strategies declared by a sample of novice teachers, and the sources of information on which they say they base their choice. To this end, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 42 French‐speaking Belgian novice teachers. These interviews were subject to thematic content analysis. The teachers report implementing certain classroom management strategies considered effective in the scientific literature, as well as practices that are less effective according to the scientific literature. To choose their strategies, they say they mainly rely on the advice of colleagues, examples suggested on social networks, and/or their initial training. The results of this study can be used to formulate ways of improving teacher training both in French‐speaking Belgium and more widely.
AI In Higher Education: Risks and Opportunities From the Academician Perspective
Authors: Doğan Miray , Celik Arda , Arslan Hasan
Published: December 2024

This research investigates how artificial intelligence (AI) influences higher education, specifically exploring the perspectives of academicians regarding associated risks and opportunities. The study is aimed at the implementation of AI within university settings and its impact on both educators and students. Given the swift integration of AI, notably the widespread adoption of generative AI in higher education, the article emphasises AI's ability to collect detailed data, providing a deeper understanding of academicians' learning experiences. This, in turn, enables personalised support, allowing academicians to respond more effectively to students' needs and improve the overall educational process. Moreover, the research highlights AI's potential to proactively identify students at risk of failure, offering academicians a comprehensive view for more effective assessment. On the other hand, these advantages and the growing dependence on technology pose challenges, including reduced interaction between academicians and students, shifts in workforce dynamics, concerns about student privacy and disparities in technology access. Acknowledging these issues, the study underscores the importance of preparing academicians and students for the evolving landscape of higher education shaped by AI. It stresses the need for proactive measures to navigate these changes effectively, as they are inevitable. The findings of this study are significant for the field of higher education, as they provide a clear and critical assessment of AI's transformative potential and advocate for proactive measures to navigate the changes effectively.
Enhancing Competence for a Sustainable Future: Integrating Artificial Intelligence–Supported Educational Technologies in Pre‐Service Teacher Training for Sustainable Development
Authors: Kayaalp Fatih , Durnali Mehmet , Gökbulut Bayram
Published: December 2024

With the mounting urgency to achieve a sustainable future, it is of paramount importance to provide pre‐service teachers with a robust understanding of de facto. The present study investigated the potential of ChatGPT‐supported educational technologies to enhance the understanding of sustainable development among 20 pre‐service teachers at a university during the 2023–2024 academic year. Over a period of 14 weeks of intervention, participants employed ChatGPT and Web 2.0 tools (Pixton) to create digital comic stories focused on sustainable development goals. The study employed an explanatory sequential mixed‐method design, utilising evaluation forms, semi‐structured interviews, inferential statistics and content analysis. The results revealed significant improvements in sustainability perspectives, awareness and knowledge, despite concerns about productivity, originality and ethical issues.
Personalizing Assessment: Dream or Nightmare?
Authors: Bennett Randy E.
Published: December 2024

Over our field's 100‐year‐plus history, standardization has been a central assumption in test theory and practice. The concept's justification turns on leveling the playing field by presenting all examinees with putatively equivalent experiences. Until relatively recently, our field has accepted that justification almost without question. In this article, I present a case for standardization's antithesis, personalization. Interestingly, personalized assessment has important precedents within the measurement community. As intriguing are some of the divergent ways in which personalization might be realized in practice. Those ways, however, suggest a host of serious issues. Despite those issues, both moral obligation and survival imperative counsel persistence in trying to personalize assessment.
Monetary policy transmission and trade‐offs in the United States: Old and new
Authors: Hofmann Boris , Peersman Gert
Published: December 2024

This study shows that monetary policy transmission in the United States has evolved considerably over the postwar period. Since the mid‐1980s, the effects of monetary policy on credit and housing markets have become much stronger relative to the impact on gross domestic product, while the effects on inflation have become weaker. We show that these changes in the relative effects of monetary policy can be explained by several important changes in the monetary transmission mechanism and in the composition of credit aggregates. Most notably, the increasing impact of monetary policy on credit was predominantly driven by an extraordinarily higher responsiveness of mortgage credit and a larger share of mortgages in total credit. These findings imply important changes over time in short‐term monetary policy trade‐offs between inflation and output stability on the one hand and between financial and macroeconomic stability on the other.
Impact of Angiographically Detected Residual Trabeculation After Left Atrial Appendage Closure Using the WATCHMAN Device: Insight From the OCEAN‐LAAC Registry
Authors: Chatani Ryuki , Kubo Shunsuke , Nishiura Naoki , Mushiake Kazunori , Ono Sachiyo , Maruo Takeshi , Kadota Kazushige , Sago Mitsuru , Tanaka Shuhei , Asami Masahiko , Hachinohe Daisuke , Naganuma Toru , Ohno Yohei , Tani Tomoyuki , Okamatsu Hideharu , Mizutani Kazuki , Watanabe Yusuke , Izumo Masaki , Saji Mike , Mizuno Shingo , Ueno Hiroshi , Shirai Shinichi , Nakashima Masaki , Yamamoto Masanori , Hayashida Kentaro ,   OCEAN‐LAAC investigators
Published: December 2024

Background

Research on the impact of angiographically detected residual trabeculation after left atrial appendage closure (LAAC) is limited.

Objectives

To investigate the incidence, characteristics, and clinical implications of angiographically detected residual trabeculation after LAAC using the WATCHMAN device.

Methods

We analyzed 1350 consecutive patients with atrial fibrillation undergoing LAAC using the WATCHMAN device from the OCEAN‐LAAC registry, which is a prospective ongoing, multicenter Japanese registry. The inclusion criteria comprised patients who successfully underwent LAAC and whose presence or absence of residual trabeculation can be confirmed using a contrast medium. The clinical outcomes were compared between patients with and without angiographically detected residual trabeculation.

Results

Residual trabeculation was angiographically detected in 5.6% (75/1350 patients). At the procedure, the proportion of peri‐device leak (PDL) was significantly higher in the residual trabeculation group than in the non‐residual trabeculation group (20% vs. 5.1%, p < 0.001). However, the PDL and device‐related thrombosis at 45 days and 1 year were comparable between the two groups (37% vs. 23%, p = 0.24; 28% vs. 31%, p = 0.84; 2.1% vs. 1.4%, p = 0.50; 6.9% vs. 6.0%, p = 0.69, respectively). The 3‐year cumulative incidence of ischemic stroke, all cardiovascular death, and all‐cause death were comparable between the two groups (5.7% vs. 5.5%, log‐rank p = 0.96; 7.7% vs. 8.9%, log‐rank p = 0.34, 31.4% vs. 22.3%, log‐rank p = 0.71, respectively).

Conclusion

The angiographically detected residual trabeculation rate was 5.6%, and this population had a significantly higher prevalence of PDL at the procedure. However, the presence of residual trabeculation did not contribute to PDL or device‐related thrombosis at follow‐up or affect the clinical outcomes.
The impact of N‐acetylcysteine on lactate, biomarkers of oxidative stress, immune response, and muscle damage: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sadowski Marcin , Zawieja Emilia , Chmurzynska Agata
Published: December 2024

N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) is a compound whose mechanism of action is intricately linked to the provision of cysteine for glutathione synthesis. It has been used in medicine and has also made significant inroads into sports, as it can modify the levels of several biomarkers, including those of oxidative processes, inflammation and muscle damage after exercise. Because the effectiveness of NAC supplementation is unclear, the primary objective of the present study was to perform a meta‐analysis elucidating how NAC supplementation alters the concentrations of GSH (glutathione), GSSG (glutathione disulfide), TBARS (thiobarbituric acid reactive substances), IL‐6 (interleukin 6), TNF‐α (tumour necrosis factor alpha), CK (creatine kinase), lactate, and muscle soreness after physical exertion. Suitable studies were searched for from February to September 2023, and the results of those included (n = 20) indicate that NAC supplementation significantly diminishes both muscle soreness (p = 0.03; the mean difference (MD) of NAC's effect was −0.43 with a 95% confidence interval (CI), −0.81, −0.04) and lactate concentrations after exercise (p = 0.03; the MD −0.56 mmol/L; 95% CI, −1.07, −0.06). A substantial decrease was observed in concentrations of IL‐6 (p = 0.03; the standardized MD (SMD) was −1.71; 95% CI, −3.26, −0.16) and TBARS (p = 0.02; SMD was −1.03, 95% CI, −1.90, −0.15). Furthermore, an elevation in GSH concentration was observed following supplementation. However, we saw no significant effect of NAC on TNF‐α, CK or GSSG concentrations. NAC supplementation holds promise for attenuating muscle soreness, lactate, TBARS and IL‐6 concentrations and increasing GSH level following physical exertion.
Cytoplasmic Aggregates of Splicing Factor Proline‐Glutamine Rich Disrupt Nucleocytoplasmic Transport and Induce Persistent Stress Granules
Authors: Huang Zicong , Zhang Hanbin , Huang Chuyu , Yi Runduan , Zhang Xiaoyuan , Ma Ke , Huang Wei , Wu Qingqing , Zhuang Yuge , Liu Jinsheng , Liu Wenyuan , Guo Yunhui , Kang Xiangjin , Hu Xiao , Bai Xiaochun , Chen Zhenguo
Published: December 2024

Splicing factor proline‐glutamine rich (SFPQ), a multifunctional RNA‐binding protein (RBP), shows cytoplasmic colocalisation with stress granule (SG) markers; however, the causative relationship and mechanism underlying this coalescence of SFPQ aggregates and SGs remain unclear. In this study, we demonstrate that SFPQ lacking its nuclear localisation sequence spontaneously forms cytoplasmic aggregates that abnormally incorporate immature RNA and induce persistent SGs. mRNA profiling showed that SFPQ mislocalisation induced extensive changes in RNA processing, with a subset of alternatively spliced transcripts associated with nucleocytoplasmic transport. Notably, these altered transporters were sequestered into SFPQ aggregates, constituting aberrant protein‐RNA complexes. Importantly, suppression of SG nucleation could not block cytoplasmic SFPQ aggregation with immature RNA and nucleocytoplasmic transporters, both of which, however, were moderately ameliorated by the inhibition of alternative splicing or nuclear export. Our results unveil the physiopathological role and mechanism for mislocalised SFPQ in the RNA metabolism, nucleocytoplasmic transport and pathological SGs.
Youth involvement in policy processes in public health, education, and social work—A scoping review
Authors: Flodgren Gerd , Helleve Arnfinn , Selstø Annlaug , Fismen Anne‐Siri , Blanchard Laurence , Rutter Harry , Klepp Knut‐Inge
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Youth involvement in policy formulation may enhance its relevance, strengthen democratic practices, and contribute to youth development. This scoping review explored the nature, extent, and impact of adolescent involvement in policy processes aimed at improving adolescent health and well‐being in the public health, education, and social work sectors.

Methods

Studies of adolescent involvement in policy processes focusing on health, and well‐being, including obesity prevention were eligible. We searched seven databases, reference lists of included studies, and contacted key organizations. Standard scoping review methods were applied. The results were synthesized narratively, using descriptive statistics and visuals.

Results

We included 33 mostly qualitative studies, mainly from the public health sector in the USA and Europe, focusing on diet, physical activity, health & well‐being, or sexual and reproductive health. Adolescents were consulted or collaborated with, mostly in identifying problems or policy solutions and less often in agenda‐setting, decision‐making, and evaluation. Various facilitators were used to improve participation (e.g. training, adult facilitators, monetary compensation). Data on adolescents' experiences of involvement and the impact on policies were limited.

Conclusion

Due to a paucity of impact studies, we could not determine whether adolescent involvement increased the relevance of policies or improved adolescent development. The extent to which adolescents were meaningfully involved, and had a material effect on decision‐making, was largely unclear. Improved documentation, monitoring, and evaluation of youth involvement in policy using quantitative methods and standardized frameworks, can improve the evidence‐based, involvement practices, and decrease inequities.
Exploring the role of social openness for pro‐diversity attitudes in urban and rural places
Authors: Hummler Teresa , Ziller Conrad
Published: December 2024

Neighborhoods are important spaces where people participate in social interactions, and existing research has demonstrated that the social and physical environment plays a pivotal role in shaping residents' social and political attitudes. This study investigates the influence of social openness in neighborhoods, defined as residents' perceptions of their co‐residents being open to change, on attitudes toward diversity. Building on existing research on rural–urban differences in socio‐political attitudes, we hypothesize that the link between social openness and pro‐diversity attitudes differs between rural and urban areas. Specifically, we argue that individuals who live in densely populated areas are more frequently exposed to cues of social openness compared to those who live in areas with low population density (even if the average social openness is equal for both). The study leverages data from two large‐N geocoded surveys in Germany to create contextual measures of social openness and assesses their relationship with pro‐diversity attitudes. Empirical results from multilevel models show that social openness is positively related to pro‐diversity attitudes but only in densely populated areas. Our results have important implications for place‐based approaches to immigrant integration and social cohesion more generally.
Cancer incidence and stage at diagnosis in children and adolescents in the Community of Madrid, 2015–2018
Authors: López‐González Raquel , Parra‐Blázquez David , Moñino Daniel , Pino‐Rosón Candela , Pollán Marina , Aragonés Nuria
Published: December 2024

Background

Cancer is the leading cause of death in children aged 1–14 and the second in 15‐19‐year‐old adolescents in Spain. The Paediatric Population‐Based Cancer Registry of the Community of Madrid was created to monitor its incidence and survival.

Objectives

This study presents the incidence of childhood and adolescent cancer (0–19 years) in Madrid at a population level by sex, age group, type of tumour and stage at diagnosis.

Methods

This study was a retrospective analysis of the total number of cases registered in the Paediatric Population‐Based Cancer Registry of the Community of Madrid. The registry employs passive and active case finding: by cross‐referencing hospital discharge data, primary healthcare data, mortality data and administrative information; and by validation of all potential incident cases through a review of electronic medical charts. All new diagnoses of malignant neoplasms, non‐malignant neoplasms of the Central Nervous System, and uncertain and in situ neoplasms of the bladder, identified in 2015–2018 in individuals under age 20 residing in Madrid, were included. Patient information was collected along with tumour characteristics, including stage at diagnosis according to the Toronto Childhood Cancer Stage Guidelines. Age‐specific and age‐standardised incidence rates were computed with 95% confidence intervals (CI).

Results

A total of 1002 tumours were registered in 5,269,524 person‐years, yielding an age‐standardised rate of 192.7 (95% CI 184.3, 201.4) cases per million person‐years. Male/female rate ratio was 1.1. The most common cancers across all ages comprised CNS tumours, leukaemias and lymphomas (primarily Hodgkin): 45.5 (95% CI 39.9, 51.7), 41.1 (95% CI 35.7, 47.1) and 35.8 (95% CI 30.9, 41.3) cases per million person‐years, respectively. The proportion of metastatic tumours at diagnosis was similar for ages 0–14 (18.6%) and 15–19 (18.7%).

Conclusions

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of childhood and adolescent cancer incidence in Madrid. The registry provides high‐quality data and consolidates epidemiological surveillance of cancer in the region.
Bringing down two Goliaths with one stone: Reducing lung cancer and cardiovascular mortality with low‐dose CT screening
Authors: Leong Tracy L.
Published: December 2024

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Long‐term effects of lime and phosphorus application on soil extractable (Olsen) phosphorus differ between two arable UK soils
Authors: Holland J. E. , White R. , Haefele S. M. , Goulding K. W. T. , McGrath S. P. , Glendining M. J.
Published: December 2024

Liming induces several positive effects on soil processes, although the specific nature of these impacts is variable for some soil properties such as extractable soil phosphorus. The aim of this study was to analyse the long‐term effect of liming on soil extractable phosphorus (Olsen P) concentrations, together with the corresponding effects on soil pH and P uptake by different crops. The soil and crop data were collected from two long‐term experiment sites at Rothamsted Research with contrasting soil texture (Rothamsted and Woburn). Liming had significant effects on Olsen P on a silty loam soil at Rothamsted and a sandy loam soil at Woburn. At both sites where no P was applied the highest Olsen P value was in the lime control treatment (no lime) which was significantly greater than all of the liming treatments. Between 1968 and 1994 temporal changes in Olsen P were not affected by liming. The P removal in the grain showed significant differences in responses between crop species which indicates differences in the availability of P to a specific plant and the efficiency of P used by each crop accordingly. The contrasting results in this study indicate that liming can lead to differences in soil P availability, because of its effect on soil pH; also this effect can be partly explained by the differences in soil texture at each site. The amount of plant available P cannot be determined from Olsen P data only, and the P removal in grain should be taken into account in order to thoroughly evaluate P status of arable crops.