bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nature-based social prescribing programmes: opportunities, challenges, and facilitators for implementation
Authors: de Bell Siân , Alejandre Julius Cesar , Menzel Claudia , Sousa-Silva Rita , Straka Tanja M. , Berzborn Susanne , Bürck-Gemassmer Max , Dallimer Martin , Dayson Chris , Fisher Jessica C. , Haywood Annette , Herrmann Alina , Immich Gisela , Keßler Christian S. , Köhler Kristin , Lynch Mary , Marx Viola , Michalsen Andreas , Mudu Pierpaolo , Napierala Hendrik , Nawrath Maximilian , Pfleger Sharon , Quitmann Claudia , Reeves Jonathan P. , Rozario Kevin , Straff Wolfgang , Walter Katie , Wendelboe-Nelson Charlotte , Marselle Melissa R. , Ying Oh Rachel Rui , Bonn Aletta
Published: November 2023

Background

Evidence on the health benefits of spending time in nature has highlighted the importance of provision of blue and green spaces in people’s living environments. The potential for health benefits offered by nature exposure, however, extends beyond health promotion to health treatment. Social prescribing links people with health or social care needs to community-based, non-clinical health and social care interventions. The aim is to improve health and wellbeing. Nature-based social prescribing (NBSP) is a variant which uses the health-promoting benefits of activities carried out in natural environments, such as gardening and conservation volunteering. Much of current NBSP practice has been developed in the UK and there is increasing global interest in its implementation. This requires interventions to be adapted for different contexts, considering the needs of populations and the structure of healthcare systems.

Methods

This paper presents results from an expert group participatory workshop involving 29 practitioners, researchers, and policymakers from the UK and Germany’s health and environmental sectors. Using the UK and Germany, two countries with different healthcare systems and in different developmental stages of NBSP practice as case studies, we analysed opportunities, challenges, and facilitators for the development and implementation of NBSP.

Results

We identified five overarching themes for developing, implementing, and evaluating NBSP: Capacity Building; Universal Accessibility; Embedded and Integrated Networks and Collaborations; Standardised Implementation and Evaluation; and Sustainability. We also discuss key strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats (i.e., a SWOT analysis) for each overarching theme to understand how they could be developed to support NBSP implementation.

Conclusions

NBSP could offer significant public health benefits using available blue and green spaces. We offer guidance on how NBSP implementation, from wider policy support to the design and evaluation of individual programmes, could be adapted to different contexts. This research could help inform the development and evaluation of NBSP programmes to support planetary health from local and global scales.
Projected healthcare cost savings with transnasal vs. transoral upper gastrointestinal endoscopy in the United States
Authors: Gupta Deepak , Edelman David , Somerset Amy , Chakrabortty Shushovan
Published: November 2023

Background

Transoral esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) requires sedation and monitored anesthesia care, while transnasal esophagoscopy (TNE) can be performed without sedation.

Despite this benefit, TNE is performed significantly less than EGD in the United States.

Objectives

The current project was designed to compare the differential prevalence of TNE and EGD with and without concurrent anesthesia billing among Medicare beneficiaries during 2018-2021.

Materials and Methods

The Public Use Files data for TNE, EGD, and anesthesia for EGD billed nationally among Medicare beneficiaries was exported from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) website for 2018-2021 and presented as cumulative data. Projections were made to quantify healthcare cost savings if the number of TNE services were at least 9% of the number of TNE+EGD services and at most 34% of the number of TNE+EGD services from 2018-2021.

Results

The key finding was that TNE was rarely performed and billed among Medicare beneficiaries when compared to EGD. In addition, roughly one-third of EGDs among Medicare beneficiaries might have been performed without concurrent anesthesia for EGD billing.

Conclusion

Secondary to the need for sedation and monitored anesthesia care, transoral upper gastrointestinal endoscopy is significantly more expensive than transnasal upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Medicare could save millions of dollars annually if TNE replaced EGD.
Relationship between Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids and Inflammation: evidence from cohort and Mendelian randomization analyses
Authors: Crick Daisy C. P. , Halligan Sarah , Davey Smith George , Khandaker Golam M. , Jones Hannah J.
Published: November 2023

Dietary polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are thought to influence the risk of various chronic diseases by modulating systemic inflammation. Omega-3 and omega-6 FAs are thought to have anti- and pro-inflammatory roles, respectively, but it is unclear whether these associations are causal. We tested associations of PUFAs with three blood-based biomarkers of systemic inflammation, namely C-reactive protein (CRP), glycoprotein acetyls (GlycA) and interleukin 6 (IL-6), in a population cohort (n=2748) and using Mendelian randomization analysis (a genetic causal inference method). We provide consistent evidence that omega-6 PUFAs increase GlycA levels, but omega-3 FAs do not lower levels of inflammatory markers. Additionally, we found that a higher omega-6:omega-3 ratio increases levels of all three inflammatory markers; CRP (mean difference=0.17; 95% CI=0.13, 0.20), GlycA (mean difference=0.16; 95% CI=0.13, 0.20) and IL-6 (mean differene=0.19; 95% CI=0.15, 0.22) in the cohort analysis. Our findings suggest that future public health messaging should encourage reducing the consumption of omega 6 FAs and maintaining a healthy balance between omega 3 and omega 6 FAs, rather than focusing on omega-3 FA supplementation. This is because dietary omega-3 supplementation alone is unlikely to help reduce systemic inflammation or inflammation-related disease.
Pseudomonas aeruginosashows between and within strains heterogeneity in virulence phenotype after passive exposure to zebrafish (Danio rerio) and nematodes (Caenorhabditis elegans)
Authors: Azulai Daniella , Espinoa Anielka , Talamantes Maracela , Bennett Heather L. , Perron Gabriel G.
Published: November 2023

The rapid emergence of diseases and parasites in aquatic wildlife requires improved methodologies to identify and characterize new and future pathogens. While microinjection of pathogens directly into a sentinel organism such as zebrafish enables the exploration of infection and immune response in the host, such methodology focuses primarily on identifying causative agents in events of aquatic wildlife mortality due to acute infection. Here, we present an updated protocol of infection by static immersion in larval zebrafish to investigate the possible effect of prolonged environmental exposure to an opportunistic pathogen. By controlling microbial growth and monitoring mortality over five days, we show that static immersion can detect minute differences in virulence profiles between and within different strains ofPseudomonas aeruginosa, an important opportunistic pathogen of animals and humans. We then conducted two sets of passive exposure virulence assays inCaenorhabditis elegans, an alternative model. We demonstrated the virulence phenotype, while showing slight differences between experimental models, showed similar trends. We believe that passive exposure thus offers a practical host-pathogen model that simulates opportunistic infection occurring in the environment and enables the detection of minute changes in virulence between and within bacterial strains.
Development of a Next Generation SNP Genotyping Array for Wheat
Authors: Burridge Amanda J. , Winfield Mark , Przewieslik-Allen Alexandra , Edwards Keith J. , Siddique Imteaz , Barral-Arca Ruth , Griffiths Simon , Cheng Shifeng , Huang Zejian , Feng Cong , Dreisigacker Susanne , Bentley Alison R. , Brown-Guedira Gina , Barker Gary L.
Published: November 2023

High throughput genotyping arrays have provided a cost effective, reliable and interoperable system for genotyping hexaploid wheat and its related germplasm pool. Existing, highly cited arrays including our 35K Axiom Wheat Breeder’s genotyping array and the Illumina 90K iSelect array were designed based on a limited amount of varietal sequence diversity and with imperfect knowledge of SNP positions. Recent progress in sequencing wheat varieties and landraces has given us access to a vast pool of SNP diversity, whilst technological improvements in array design has allowed us to fit significantly more probes onto a 384-well format Axiom array than was previously possible. Here we describe a novel High Density Axiom genotyping array, theTriticum aestivumNext Generation array (TaNG), largely derived from whole genome skim sequencing of 204 elite wheat lines and 111 wheat landraces taken from the Watkins “Core Collection”. We use a novel “minimal marker” optimisation approach to select up to six SNPs in each 1.5 MB region of the wheat genome with the highest combined varietal discrimination potential. A design iteration step allowed us to test and replace skim-sequence derived SNPs which failed to convert to reliable Axiom markers, resulting in a final design, designated TaNG1.1 with 43,372 SNPs derived from a haplotype-optimised combination of novel SNPs, DArTAG-derived and legacy wheat Axiom markers. We show that this design has an even distribution of SNPs across chromosomes and sub-genomes compared to previous arrays and can be used to generate genetic maps with a significantly higher number of distinct bins than our previous Axiom array. We also demonstrate the improved performance of TaNG1.1 for Genome Wide Association Studies (GWAS) and its utility for Copy Number Variation (CNV) analysis. The array is commercially available, and the marker annotations, initial genotyping results and software used to generate the optimised marker sets are freely available.
Colonization ofBacillus altitudinison the Compatible Soybean Varieties to Provide Seed Rot Resistance
Authors: Wu Ping-Hu , Chang Hao-Xun
Published: November 2023

Seed health is crucial for plant growth and agricultural productivity. Recent studies have illustrated the importance of plant microbiome in disease resistance, however, it remains unclear whether the seed microbiome confers seed rot resistance against fungal pathogens. In this study, the application of antibiotics on the seeds of eight soybean varieties showed that seed-associated bacteria were involved in the seed rot resistance caused byCalonectria ilicicola, but this resistance cannot be carried to withstand root rot. Using PacBio 16S rDNA full-length sequencing and microbiome analyses, the seed microbiome was shown to mainly dependent on the soybean variety, and there was no consistent community network associated with seed rot resistance across soybean varieties. Instead, the seed-associatedBacillus altitudiniswas identified through the differential abundance analysis and culture-dependent isolation. Moreover, qPCR confirmed the persistence ofB. altitudinison apical shoots till 21 days post-inoculation, but not on roots by 9 days post-inoculation. The short-term colonization ofB. altitudinison roots may explain the absence of root rot resistance. Furthermore, seed treated withB. altitudinisrestored seed rot resistance, but only in the compatible soybean varieties. For the incompatible soybean varieties,B. altitudinisshowed lower bacterial density and provided no seed protection. Collectively, this study advances the insight ofB. altitudinisconferring seed rot resistance. These findings highlight the potential of using seed-associated bacteria for seed protection and underscore the importance of considering bacterial compatibility with plant genotypes and tissues.
Expansion of the neocortex and protection from neurodegeneration byin vivotransient reprogramming
Authors: Shen Y , Zaballa S , Bech X , Sancho-Balsells A , Díaz-Cifuentes C , Seyit-Bremer G , Ballasch I , Alcázar N , Alberch J , Abad M , Serrano M , Klein R , Giralt A , del Toro D
Published: November 2023

Yamanaka factors (YFs) can reverse some aging features in mammalian tissues, but their effects on the brain remain largely unexplored. Here, we induced YFs in the mouse brain in a controlled spatio-temporal manner in two different scenarios: brain development, and adult stages in the context of neurodegeneration. Embryonic induction of YFs perturbed cell identity of both progenitors and neurons, but transient and low-level expression is tolerated by these cells during development. Under these conditions, YFs induction led to expanded neurogenesis, increased number of upper cortical neurons, and enhanced motor and social behavior of adult mice. Additionally, controlled YF induction is tolerated by principal neurons in the adult dorsal hippocampus and prevented the development of several hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease, including cognitive decline and altered molecular signatures, in the 5xFAD mouse model. Overall, these results highlight the powerful impact of YFs on neurogenesis and their potential use in brain disorders.

Highlights

Transient Yamanaka factor (YF) expression during development expands neocortex

YF-treated mice show enhanced cognitive skills

Intermitent YF expression is tolerated by adult principal hippocampal neurons

Long-term intermitent YF reprogramming is protective in an AD mouse model
Signaling ligand heterogeneities in the peduncle complex of the cephalopod molluscOctopus bimaculoides
Authors: Wang Z Yan , Ragsdale Clifton W
Published: November 2023

The octopus peduncle complex is an agglomeration of neural structures with remarkably diverse functional roles. The complex rests on the optic tract, between the optic lobe and the central brain, and comprises the peduncle lobe proper, the olfactory lobe, and the optic gland. The peduncle lobe regulates visuomotor behaviors, the optic glands control sexual maturation and maternal death, and the olfactory lobe is thought to receive input from the olfactory organ. Recent transcriptomic and metabolomic studies have identified candidate peptide and steroid ligands in theOctopus bimaculoidesoptic gland. With gene expression for these ligands and their biosynthetic enzymes, we show that optic gland neurochemistry extends beyond the traditional optic gland secretory tissue and into lobular territories. A key finding is that the classically defined olfactory lobe is itself a heterogenous territory and includes steroidogenic territories that overlap with cells expressing molluscan neuropeptides and the synthetic enzyme dopamine beta-hydroxylase.
Towards Generalizability and Robustness in Biological Object Detection in Electron Microscopy Images
Authors: Giannios Katya , Chaurasia Abhishek , Bueno Cecilia , Riesterer Jessica L. , Pagano Lucas , Lo Terence P. , Thibault Guillaume , Gray Joe W. , Song Xubo , DeLaRosa Bambi
Published: November 2023

Machine learning approaches have the potential for meaningful impact in the biomedical field. However, there are often challenges unique to biomedical data that prohibits the adoption of these innovations. For example, limited data, data volatility, and data shifts all compromise model robustness and generalizability. Without proper tuning and data management, deploying machine learning models in the presence of unaccounted for corruptions leads to reduced or misleading performance. This study explores techniques to enhance model generalizability through iterative adjustments. Specifically, we investigate a detection tasks using electron microscopy images and compare models trained with different normalization and augmentation techniques. We found that models trained with Group Normalization or texture data augmentation outperform other normalization techniques and classical data augmentation, enabling them to learn more generalized features. These improvements persist even when models are trained and tested on disjoint datasets acquired through diverse data acquisition protocols. Results hold true for transformerand convolution-based detection architectures. The experiments show an impressive 29% boost in average precision, indicating significant enhancements in the model’s generalizibality. This underscores the models’ capacity to effectively adapt to diverse datasets and demonstrates their increased resilience in real-world applications.
When the host’s away, the pathogen will play: the protective role of the skin microbiome during hibernation
Authors: Troitsky TS , Laine VN , Lilley TM
Published: November 2023

The skin of animals is enveloped by a symbiotic microscopic ecosystem known as the microbiome. The host and microbiome exhibit a mutualistic relationship, collectively forming a single evolutionary unit sometimes referred to as a holobiont. Although the holobiome theory highlights the importance of the microbiome, little is known about how the skin microbiome contributes to protecting the host. Existing studies focus on humans or captive animals, but research in wild animals is in its infancy. Specifically, the protective role of the skin microbiome in hibernating animals remains almost entirely overlooked. This is surprising, considering the massive population declines in hibernating North American bats caused by the fungal pathogenPseudogymnoascus destructans, which causes white-nose syndrome. Hibernation offers a unique setting in which to study the function of the microbiome because, during torpor, the host’s immune system becomes suppressed, making it susceptible to infection. We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature on the protective role of the skin microbiome in non-human animals. We selected 230 publications that mentioned pathogen inhibition by microbes residing on the skin of the host animal. We found that the majority of studies were conducted in North America and focused on the bacterial microbiome of amphibians infected by the chytrid fungus. Despite mentioning pathogen inhibition by the skin microbiome, only 30,4 % of studies experimentally tested the actual antimicrobial activity of symbionts. Additionally, only 7,8 % of all publications studied defensive cutaneous symbionts during hibernation. With this review, we want to highlight the knowledge gap surrounding skin microbiome research in hibernating animals. For instance, research looking to mitigate the effects of white-nose syndrome in bats should focus on the antifungal microbiome of Palearctic bats, as they survive exposure to thePseudogymnoascus destructans-pathogen during hibernation. We also recommend future studies prioritize lesser-known microbial symbionts, such as fungi, and investigate the effects of a combination of anti-pathogen microbes, as both areas of research show promise as probiotic treatments. By incorporating the protective skin microbiome into disease mitigation strategies, conservation efforts can be made more effective.
Status of patent archives in Asian continent: a vivid picture from OpenDOAR
Authors: Sofi Ishrat Ayub , Mir Aasif Ahmad
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to highlight the many distinguishing characteristics of open-access repositories that archive “Patents” in the Directory of Open-Access Repositories (OpenDOAR) provided by Asian nations.

Design/methodology/approach

The OpenDOAR was chosen as a data collection tool that provides a quality-assured list of repositories indexed globally. The data was extracted on 28 March 2023.

Findings

The study found that only eight Asian countries contributed to open-access repositories on OpenDOAR, with China being the highest contributor. These countries mainly focused on institutional repositories, primarily using DSpace and English as the main language interface. Web 2.0 tools, especially RSS and Atom, were commonly used, along with some presence of social media platforms on the sites, although to a lesser extent. While many repositories followed the OAI-PMH protocol, a considerable portion did not adopt open-access policies.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first one that brings to light the different features of repositories archiving one of the important content types, i.e. “Patents” in the OpenDOAR by Asian countries.
The information content of half-yearly goodwill impairment losses: analysis of the European context
Authors: Roncagliolo Elisa
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aims to contribute to the debate on goodwill accounting by examining the information content of impairment losses recognized in half-yearly reports. Half-yearly reports provide a suitable context to examine the effectiveness of the impairment process. Due to IFRIC 10 requirements, indeed, managers may have incentives to avoid recognizing impairment losses at the interim reporting date.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts an archival approach. Based on the traditional Ohlson’s model (1995), it explores the information content of half-yearly impairment losses in the European context over the period 2007–2017.

Findings

Findings confirm the relevance of half-yearly reports and suggest that half-yearly impairment losses are significantly associated with stock prices. In particular, investors positively value companies that recognized goodwill impairment losses at the interim reporting date.

Research limitations/implications

The study contributes to the academic debate on goodwill and the effectiveness of the impairment procedure. In particular, it provides empirical evidence on the recognition of goodwill write-offs when it is possible to avoid the impairment test in the absence of indications of impairment.

Practical implications

Findings of this study can support the current debate on accounting for goodwill also in the light of the recent proposals of the IASB on the need to improve the effectiveness of the impairment test.

Originality/value

This study provides original empirical evidence on the goodwill impairment test in half-yearly reports, extending previous research that typically examines this issue in annual reports.
Do narcissism and resilience personality traits ignite university students' desirability and entrepreneurial intentions? Moderation of pursuit of excellence and risk
Authors: Chaudhary Manisha , Biswas Abhijeet
Published: November 2023

Purpose

A nation's economic development is adversely affected by the rising population and the lack of employment opportunities, necessitating the promotion of entrepreneurial activities. This study aims to unfurl the critical factors shaping university students' entrepreneurial intentions (EI) in an emerging economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study assessed the EI of 640 university students across India's top 5 central universities through structural equation modeling by extending the entrepreneurial event model (EEM) and dark triad theory. Mediation and moderation techniques were used to examine the model's direct and indirect linkages.

Findings

The results show that propensity to act (PTA), perceived resilience (PRS) and narcissism (NAR) magnify desirability, significantly increasing students' EI. The association between the underlying constructs is partially mediated by the PTA and perceived desirability (PD). In addition, the linkage between PD and students' EI is strengthened by the pursuit of excellence (PoE) and weakened by perceived risk (PR).

Research limitations/implications

The study's findings could assist educators, universities, aspiring entrepreneurs, financial institutions, policymakers, investors, venture capitalists, incubators and accelerators in reinforcing entrepreneurial culture in India by establishing a link between crucial personality traits and intentions to start entrepreneurial ventures.

Originality/value

Personality traits such as NAR, resilience and the PoE have not received much attention in the entrepreneurship literature and call for a rigorous inquiry. The study tries to embrace these dominant personality traits by broadening the perspectives of EEM and dark triad theory via a comprehensive conceptual model. It also explores the role of the PoE and PR as moderators to examine the possible association between the identified constructs.
The role of the state in consumer culture: the case of “Operation Vin” in Sweden
Authors: Servadio Luigi , Ostberg Jacob
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the market dynamics that led to a shift in Swedish consumers' alcohol preferences from schnapps to wine. Specifically, the study investigates how the Swedish state influenced consumers' alcohol habits and highlights the role of governance units in shaping consumer culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The study reconstructs the historical memory of the “Operation Vin”, a strategic marketing campaign implemented by Systembolaget from 1957 to 1985, to conceptualize the past and to uncover the structures and change dynamics of the Swedish alcohol market system. Following this approach, the research contrasts historical data from multiple sources with market-oriented ethnographical data and traces the trajectory of how the consumption of alcohol has changed as a consequence of the Swedish state’s initiatives.

Findings

The study offers two contributions to the literature in marketing and consumption history. Firstly, it uncovers the lines of actions (framing and settlement) involved in creating marketing systems and shaping consumer culture. Secondly, it explores how the state strategically leveraged its social skills to promote a specific type of alcohol consumption (wine) and to induce the Swedish consumer to cooperate in the refashioning of the alcohol field.

Social implications

The authors aspire for this paper to offer valuable insights into how a state, as a governance entity, can shape consumer culture through a strategic blend of various regulatory measures, both gentle and forceful. The authors emphasize the pivotal role of social skills in fostering cooperation during the implementation of a new alcohol policy.

Originality/value

This paper provides valuable insights into the role of the Swedish state in shaping consumer culture and explores the strategic actions and marketing systems involved, contributing to marketing and consumption history literature.
Can the vital cycle explain the circular consumer journey? A historical analysis of the relationship of Spanish Generation X with emblematic brands
Authors: Jiménez-Zarco Ana Isabel , Mendez-Aparicio M Dolores , Izquierdo-Yusta Alicia
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the life history of the Spanish Generation X over the last five decades.

Design/methodology/approach

Considering that the generational cohort concept can be identified from the marketing side as a market segment, this paper proposes to analyze the socio-economic and cultural context that has marked the different life stages of Generation X, and how they have related to brands according to their needs, desires and aspirations.

Findings

The results show that the customer journey can be considered a circular concept. The customer’s relationship with the brand can begin in childhood and continue into adulthood, such that the emotional relationship established with the brand as a child influences purchase decisions in adulthood.

Research limitations/implications

Although limited to the analysis of Generation X and its relationship with brands, this paper shows the importance of knowing the socio-economic, legal and cultural context of a generation.

Practical implications

As a business implication, the importance of remarketing is evident as a business strategy that reinforces the emotional connection between the brand and the different generations.

Social implications

From a social point of view, this paper shows the power of brands as an element of self-expression of the needs, tastes or preferences of individuals is evident.

Originality/value

This paper offers a different and innovative vision of the customer journey, taking into account the individual’s life cycle, and the way in which at each stage of life, he/she relates to brands in a different way.
Earnings management practices and effectiveness of auditing mechanisms in Islamic and emerging economies
Authors: Kateb Ines , Youssef Mouna
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of audit mechanisms on earnings management (EM) practices in listed Saudi Arabian companies. Specifically, it examines the association between audit committee (AC) characteristics, external audit quality and EM before and after the revision of Saudi Regulations on Corporate Governance (SRCGs) in 2017.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes a data set comprising 135 Saudi-listed companies observed from 2013 to 2020. EM practices are measured using the absolute value of discretionary accruals, and external audit quality is assessed by the involvement of BIG 4 auditors. The authors also consider four variables to gauge AC characteristics: independence, size, meeting frequency and expertise. To test the hypotheses, the authors use multivariate regression on panel data.

Findings

The findings provide robust evidence regarding the impact of audit mechanisms on EM practices. The presence of accounting and finance experts within the AC is shown to have a substantial and statistically significant effect in reducing EM practices. Similarly, AC independence demonstrates a negative association with EM after the implementation of the SRCGs 2017. However, the study does not uncover any statistically significant impact of AC size and meeting frequency on EM practices. Moreover, the research highlights a noteworthy positive relationship between EM practices and engagement with BIG 4 audit firms before the SRCGs 2017. However, this relationship ceases to exist following the regulatory amendment.

Practical implications

The practical implications of this research are significant for policymakers and companies operating in Saudi Arabia, as well as for practitioners and auditors working in the region. The findings underscore the importance of high-quality auditing work to prevent EM practices and promote transparent financial reporting. The study recommends increasing the number of independent members and financial experts on the AC, as well as rigorous monitoring of AC size and meetings. It also emphasizes the need for compliance with governance regulations to focus on effective monitoring of the AC rather than mere fulfillment of requirements.

Originality/value

The study enhances the existing literature on the effectiveness of ACs and external audit quality in mitigating EM by providing evidence from a unique and Islamic context that has not been extensively studied before. This can help in validating or challenging the findings of previous studies and provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors that impact EM in different contexts.
Avoiding excessive AI service agent anthropomorphism: examining its role in delivering bad news
Authors: Mulcahy Rory Francis , Riedel Aimee , Keating Byron , Beatson Amanda , Letheren Kate
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The aim of this paper is twofold. First, it seeks to understand how different forms of anthropomorphism, namely verbal and visual, can enhance or detract from the subjective well-being of consumers and their co-creation behaviors whilst collaborating with artificial intelligence (AI) service agents. Second, it seeks to understand if AI anxiety and trust in message, function as primary and secondary consumer appraisals of collaborating with AI service agents.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is developed using the theories of the uncanny valley and cognitive appraisal theory (CAT) with three hypotheses identified to guide the experimental work. The hypotheses are tested across three experimental studies which manipulate the level of anthropomorphism of AI.

Findings

Results demonstrate that verbal and visual anthropomorphism can assist consumer well-being and likelihood of co-creation. Further, this relationship is explained by the mediators of anxiety and trust.

Originality/value

The empirical results and theorizing suggest verbal anthropomorphism should be present (absent) and paired with low (high) visual anthropomorphism, which supports the “uncanny valley” effect. A moderated mediation relationship is established, which confirms AI anxiety and trust in a message as mediators of the AI service agent anthropomorphism-consumer subjective well-being/co-creation relationship. This supports the theorizing of the conceptual model based on the “uncanny valley” and CAT.
A review of strategic visioning and organizational performance: epistemological challenges
Authors: Niemi-Kaija Kristiina , Pattinson Steven
Published: November 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this systematic narrative review is to discourse on vision and organizational performance. By analysing work-life and organization studies journals, the authors respond to a call to view the process of visioning more holistically.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach is a discourse-oriented qualitative content analysis. The authors explore visioning through an epistemological lens, which emphasizes both the connections and differences between “traditional” philosophical approaches.

Findings

The findings show how the different interpretations of vision and related concepts are tied to the following themes: clarity, causality, embodiment and sensory experiences and actionability.

Originality/value

Through the frameworks of scientific realism and relativism, the authors illustrate novel insights into the ways in which visioning occupies a place in knowledge management.
Time‐lapse applications of the Marchenko method on the Troll field
Authors: van IJsseldijk Johno , Brackenhoff Joeri , Thorbecke Jan , Wapenaar Kees
Published: November 2023

The data‐driven Marchenko method is able to redatum wavefields to arbitrary locations in the subsurface, and can, therefore, be used to isolate zones of specific interest. This creates a new reflection response of the target zone without interference from over‐ or underburden reflectors. Consequently, the method is well suited to obtain a clear response of a subsurface reservoir, which can be advantageous in time‐lapse studies. The isolated responses of a baseline and monitor survey can be more effectively compared; hence, the retrieval of time‐lapse characteristics is improved. This research aims to apply Marchenko‐based isolation to a time‐lapse marine data set of the Troll field in Norway in order to acquire an unobstructed image of the primary reflections and retrieve small time‐lapse traveltime difference in the reservoir. It is found that the method not only isolates the primary reflections but can also estimate internal multiples outside the recording time. Both the primaries and the multiples can then be utilized to find time‐lapse traveltime differences. More accurate ways of time‐lapse monitoring will allow for a better understanding of dynamic processes in the subsurface, such as observing saturation and pressure changes in a reservoir or monitoring underground storage of hydrogen and CO2.
Accounting for spatiotemporal sampling variation in joint species distribution models
Authors: North Joshua S. , Schliep Erin M. , Hansen Gretchen J. A. , Kundel Holly , Custer Christopher A. , McLaughlin Paul , Wagner Tyler
Published: November 2023

Estimating relative abundance is critical for informing conservation and management efforts and for making inferences about the effects of environmental change on populations. Freshwater fisheries span large geographic regions, occupy diverse habitats and consist of varying species assemblages. Monitoring schemes used to sample these diverse populations often result in populations being sampled at different times and under different environmental conditions. Varying sampling conditions can bias estimates of abundance when compared across time, location and species, and properly accounting for these biases is critical for making inferences.

We develop a joint species distribution model (JSDM) that accounts for varying sampling conditions due to the environment and time of sampling when estimating relative abundance. The novelty of our JSDM is that we explicitly model sampling effort as the product of known quantities based on time and gear type and an unknown functional relationship to capture seasonal variation in species life history.

We use the model to study relative abundance of six freshwater fish species across the state of Minnesota, USA. Our model enables estimates of relative abundance to be compared both within and across species and lakes, and captures the inconsistent sampling present in the data. We discuss how gear type, water temperature and day of the year impact catchability for each species at the lake level and throughout a year. We compare our estimates of relative abundance to those obtained from a model that assumes constant catchability to highlight important differences within and across lakes and species.

Synthesis and applications: Our method illustrates that assumptions relating indices of abundance to observed catch data can greatly impact model inferences derived from JSDMs. Specifically, not accounting for varying sampling conditions can bias inference of relative abundance, restricting our ability to detect responses to management interventions and environmental change. While our focus is on freshwater fisheries, this model architecture can be adopted to other systems where catchability may vary as a function of space, time and species.
Identifying and describing developmental language disorder in children
Authors: Kuiack Alyssa K. , Archibald Lisa M. D.
Published: November 2023

Background

In 2016–17 an important consensus was established regarding the use of the diagnostic label ‘developmental language disorder’ (DLD) to describe children with a persistent language problem having a functional impact on communication or learning and in the absence of any other biomedical condition. Despite this consensus, past research has revealed ongoing uncertainty regarding when to use the DLD label among speech–language pathologists (SLPs).

Aims

In response to this uncertainty, a survey of SLPs was conducted aimed at investigating which types of clinical language profiles, and specific assessment results, were viewed as warranting the diagnostic label DLD.

Methods & Procedures

SLPs were presented with 10 childhood language profiles and assessment results. Participants reviewed each case and described if they felt a diagnosis of DLD was warranted, which presented symptoms were consistent/inconsistent with DLD and if further information/testing was desired. Additionally, participants provided details regarding their personal diagnostic processes.

Outcomes & Results

Results indicated a general consensus among SLPs as to when the DLD label should be applied. However, free‐text responses demonstrated considerable variation between clinicians regarding symptoms of importance, points of contention/confusion in language profiles and minimal assessment results viewed as necessary in the diagnostic process.

Conclusions & Implications

This detailed look at the assessment/diagnostic process for DLD provides valuable insight into how to build further practice consistency in the provision of the diagnostic label DLD, especially in cases of complex language profiles and assessment results.

WHAT THIS PAPER ADDS

What is already known on this subject

The label DLD should be used as a diagnostic label to describe children with persistent language problems having a functional impact on communication or learning and in the absence of any biomedical condition. However, in current clinical practice, actual use of the label is inconsistent and SLPs face a number of challenges in diagnosing DLD.

What this paper adds to the existing knowledge

This investigation provides clarity regarding which complexities in paediatric language profiles are most challenging for SLPs when determining if a child does/does not have DLD. Additionally, details regarding current assessment beliefs and practices are explored.

What are the practical and clinical implications of this work?

By providing a detailed look at the diagnostic processes of practising SLPs, valuable insight is provided into how to build further practice consistency and confidence in the provision of the diagnostic label DLD, especially in cases of complex language profiles and assessment results.
Economic consequences of climate change impacts on South Asian agriculture: A computable general equilibrium analysis
Authors: Abeysekara Walimuni Chamindri Sewanka Mendis , Siriwardana Mahinda , Meng Samuel
Published: November 2023

South Asia is one of the most vulnerable regions of the globe in terms of climate change, with agriculture the most affected economic sector of the region. This study employs an environmental Global Trade Analysis Project model to simulate the impact of an average global 2°C temperature increase by 2050, with a focus on South Asian countries. The economic costs of climate change in relation to crop productivity losses due to increasing temperature, land productivity losses caused by rising sea levels and heat stress‐induced agricultural labour productivity losses are assessed based on model simulations. The results show that the unfavourable climate change impacts on agricultural productivity (crop, land and labour) will reduce food production and create upward pressure on food prices. This will lead to a reduction in food consumption at the household level, threatening future food security in the region. The results further predict a contraction in all South Asian economies by 2050, due to adverse climate change impacts on the agricultural sector. In addition, out of the three climate change damage factors considered, labour productivity causes the greatest economic losses, while land productivity losses caused by rising sea levels impact the least. The study also found that low‐income countries would suffer most severely due to the impacts of climate change on the agricultural sector, while high‐income countries would be impacted the least.
Striving for health equity during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Vaccine distribution in DuPage County, IL
Authors: Fifolt Matthew , Hoff Christopher , Lundeen Kristen
Published: November 2023

This article is an example of ‘Lessons from the Field’. The likelihood of future novel diseases, like coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), is extremely high due to global travel, increased antibiotic resistance, and vaccine hesitancy of common viruses based on attitudes towards the COVID‐19 vaccine. Therefore, local and state health departments should incorporate lessons learned from the COVID‐19 pandemic into their operational planning. At the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic, most health departments in Illinois served as direct points‐of‐distribution for dispensing vaccine. The DuPage County Health Department (DCHD), however, chose to distribute vaccine through a hub‐and‐spoke model in which an established network of providers throughout the county administered vaccine based on availability and need. By decentralizing vaccine distribution, DCHD put vaccine in the areas of greatest need while also reducing the burden of transportation for vulnerable populations. Moreover, the hub‐and‐spoke model may have contributed to health equity due to the variety of providers in the network who were trusted among hesitant individuals within the community. By summer 2021, DuPage County ranked in the top 2% of US counties with eligible residents vaccinated against COVID‐19.
Use of a lockable pigtail catheter (Cook Dawson‐Mueller Multipurpose Drainage Catheter) for nephrostomy reduces the risk of slippage of the catheter
Authors: Yajima Shugo , Nakanishi Yasukazu , Hirose Kohei , Kataoka Madoka , Masuda Hitoshi
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study compared the outcomes of using Mac‐Loc catheters and non–Mac‐Loc catheters for percutaneous nephrostomy (PCN). Mac‐Loc catheters have a locking mechanism that forms a curl at the tip by pulling a suture and securing it in place.

Methodology

This retrospective study compared the outcomes of consecutive patients who received PCN with catheters equipped with Mac‐Loc versus those with catheters without Mac‐Loc. Catheter failure was the primary endpoint of the study and was defined as all cases of catheter malfunction after PCN. A propensity score was calculated from covariates based on clinical variables, and patients in each group were matched 1:1 based on the propensity score.

Results

During the follow‐up period, a total of 289 cases underwent PCN, 72 with catheters equipped with Mac‐Loc and 217 without Mac‐Loc. Failure of the catheter occurred in 63 cases (22%). There were 44 cases (70%) of slippage, 18 cases (29%) of obstruction, and 1 case (2%) of catheter rupture. After propensity score matching, catheter failure–free survival was significantly higher in the group with catheters equipped with Mac‐Loc than in the group without Mac‐Loc (P = .003).

Conclusions

The use of catheters equipped with Mac‐Loc for PCN reduces the risk of unintentional catheter slippage.
Insect bioactive compounds and their potential use in animal diets and medicine
Authors: Bingqian Ning , Ali Shah Assar , Matra Maharach , Wanapat Metha , Ullah Khan Rifat , Ahmad Shakoor , Ullah Shakeeb , Shuaib Khan Muhammad , Kamal Shah Muhammad
Published: November 2023

This study examined the effects of various insect species, such as those of Bombyx mori, Hermetia illucens and Tenebrio monitor, that have long been used in combination with medicinal plants and are an important alternative to modern medicine in many parts of the world. The current use of traditional pesticides from around the year 2010 and the characteristics of isolated biologically active molecules are also presented. Natural insect products were examined or isolated from ants, bees, beetles, cockroaches, termites, bees, etc. The biological activities of these natural products derived from insects include antimicrobial, antifungal, anticancer, antiviral, antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects. Insect additives to animal feed rarely distort the relevant physicochemical variables or sensory profile of the meat, whereas the fatty acid (FA) profile is discernibly changed. In fact, insect derivatives have great potential for future drug discovery in natural products, as well as for the production of nutritious foods for humans and for animals. It is concluded that the inoculation of insect powder in animal feeds results in the prevention and treatment of disease, enhances the growth of animals and promotes the bioactive compounds in animal‐based products. Owing to the sustainability of their breeding, large‐scale cultures of these insects seem economically viable. Insect oil and protein as well as chitin ingredients are widely used in cosmetics, and these substances are considered high‐value co‐products. The major challenges associated with their use will be linked to the development of methods for separating industrial‐derived materials.