bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gut microbiome diversity associates with estimated lifetime and annual reproductive success in male but not female collared flycatchers
Authors: Martta Liukkonen , Lars Gustafsson , Kirsten Grond , Suvi Ruuskanen 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTThe gut microbiome (hereafter, GM) varies across individuals of the same species and this pattern has been observed in multiple wild species. Evidence shows that the GM connects to individual health and survival especially in captive species, but more research is needed to understand how the GM connects to host fitness in wild species. We used long-term monitoring data to investigate whether the GM of collared flycatchersFicedula albicollisassociates with annual and lifetime reproductive success (LRS), and survival to the following breeding season. This is the first study that 1) characterized the collared flycatcher GM, and 2) investigated how variation in the GM related to LRS in wild birds. Our results showed that higher GM diversity was associated with a higher annual and lifetime reproductive success in especially male collared flycatchers. We also found that the compositional variation in collared flycatcher GMs was explained by sex, age, and breeding habitat, but not by annual or lifetime reproductive success. Individuals that died before the next breeding season had higher abundances of ASVs belonging to the pathogenic familiesEnterobacteriaceaeandParachlamydiaceae, and the generaCorynebacteriaandSphingomonas. Our results show that the GM associates with different aspects of host fitness in a wild bird population. More research is needed to evaluate if there is a causal relationship between the GM and individual fitness. These findings also contribute to our understanding of the GMs role in evolution by elucidating the connection between the GM (trait) and reproductive success.
Machine Learning to Predict Gut Microbiomes of Agricultural Pests
Authors: Jobayer Md , Taylor Alexander , Hasan Md Rakibul , Ahmed Khandaker Asif , Hossain Md Zakir 
Published: August 2024

AbstractContextWhile current efforts to control agricultural insect pests largely focus on the widespread use of insecticides, predicting microbiome composition can provide important data for creating more efficient and long-lasting pest control methods by analysing the pest’s food-digesting capacity and resistance to bacteria or viruses.AimsInstead of using computationally expensive techniques, we aim to investigate the dynamics of these microbiome compositions using metagenomic samples taken from fruit flies.MethodsIn this paper, we propose the three machine learning-based biological models. Firstly, we propose theintrafamilial successor prediction, which predicts the relative abundance of each bacterial family using the past four generations. Next, we propose ourinterfamilial quantitative prediction, where the model predicts the amount of a given bacterial family in each sample using the amount of all other bacteria present in the sample. Lastly. we propose ourinterfamilial qualitative prediction, which predicts the relative abundance of each bacterial family within a sample using binary information of all bacterial families.Key ResultsAll three models were tested against Least Angle Regression, Random Forest, Elastic-Net, and Lasso. The third approach exhibits promising results by applying a Random Forest with the lowest mean Coefficient of Variance of 1.25.ConclusionThe overall results of this study highlight how complex these dynamic systems are and demonstrate that more computationally efficient methods can characterise them quickly.
Microglia are Required for Developmental Specification of AgRP Innervation in the Hypothalamus of Offspring Exposed to Maternal High-Fat Diet During Lactation
Authors: Mendoza-Romero Haley N. , Biddinger Jessica E. , Bedenbaugh Michelle N. , Simerly Richard B. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractAgouti-related peptide (AgRP) neurons in the arcuate nucleus of the hypothalamus respond to multiple metabolic signals and distribute neuroendocrine information to other brain regions such as the paraventricular hypothalamic nucleus (PVH), which plays a central role in metabolic homeostasis. Neural projections from AgRP neurons to the PVH form during the postnatal lactational period in mice and these projections are reduced in offspring of dams that consumed a high-fat diet (HFD) during lactation (MHFD-L). Here we used immunohistochemistry to visualize microglial morphology in MHFD-L offspring and identified changes that were regionally localized to the PVH and appeared temporally restricted to the period when AgRP neurons innervate this region. In addition, axon labeling experiments revealed that microglia engulf AgRP terminals in the PVH, and that the density of AgRP innervation to the PVH in MHFD-L offspring may be dependent on microglia, because microglial depletion blocked the decrease in PVH AgRP innervation observed in MHFD-L offspring, as well as prevented the increased body weight exhibited at weaning. Together, these findings suggest that microglia are activated by exposure to MHFD-L and interact directly with AgRP axons during postnatal development to permanently alter innervation of the PVH, with implications for developmental programming of metabolic phenotype.Impact StatementMicroglia appear to play an essential role in specifying patterns of hypothalamic innervation during development in response to maternal HFD exposure, which may contribute to developmental programming of metabolic phenotype.
Longitudinal deformation based morphometry pipeline to study neuroanatomical differences in structural MRI based on SyN unbiased templates
Authors: Germann Jürgen , Gouveia Flavia Venetucci , Chakravarty M. Mallar , Devenyi Gabriel A. 
Published: August 2024

ABSTRACTMorphometric measures in humans derived from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) have provided important insights into brain differences and changes associated with development and disease in vivo. Deformation-based morphometry (DBM) is a registration-based technique that has been shown to be useful in detecting local volume differences and longitudinal brain changes while not requiring a priori segmentation or tissue classification. Typically, DBM measures are derived from registration to common template brain space (one-level DBM). Here, we present a two-level DBM technique: first, the Jacobian determinants are calculated for each individual input MRI at the subject level to capture longitudinal individual brain changes; then, in a second step, an unbiased common group space is created, and the Jacobians co-registered to enable the comparison of individual morphological changes across subjects or groups. This two-level DBM is particularly suitable for capturing longitudinal intra-individual changes in vivo, as calculating the Jacobians within-subject space leads to superior accuracy. Using artificially induced volume differences, we demonstrate that this two-level DBM pipeline is 4.5x more sensitive in detecting longitudinal within-subject volume changes compared to a typical one-level DBM approach. It also captures the magnitude of the induced volume change much more accurately. Using 150 subjects from the OASIS-2 dataset, we demonstrate that the two-level DBM is superior in capturing cortical volume changes associated with cognitive decline across patients with dementia and cognitively healthy individuals. This pipeline provides researchers with a powerful tool to study longitudinal brain changes with superior accuracy and sensitivity. It is publicly available and has already been used successfully, proving its utility.
Personalized human-computer interaction as an information source for ride-hailing platforms: behavior intention perspective
Authors: Li Jing , Ling Rui , Sun Fangjie , Zhou Jinming , Cai Haiya 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThis paper adds risk perception and personalized human-computer interaction to the technology acceptance model, and further analyzes the impact of personalized unmanned ride hailing on users' behavior intention.Design/methodology/approachThis study model was tested using a sample of 299 social media users from China and we apply structural equation modeling (SEM) to build the theoretical framework.FindingsOur results show that perceived ease of use has a greater positive impact on behavior intention compared to perceived usefulness. In addition, we find that the impact of risk perception on behavior intention is manifested in a number of ways, including people’s risk perception of the new technology, people’s risk perception of data leakage, and so on. Finally, we find that users’ personalized human-computer interaction has a positive effect on their perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and behavior intention.Originality/valueOur study contributes to illuminate the pivotal role of tailoring the human-computer interface to individual preferences and needs for ride-hailing platforms from the perspective of behavior intention.
Transcending the DEI contradictions: a Bourdieusian path to social justice in international business
Authors: Vangeli Anastas 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This study aims to critically discuss and reorient the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) debate toward the idea of addressing and rectifying the pervasive structural inequalities that DEI, in its undiluted form rooted in social justice (SJ), aims to combat. Drawing on Bourdieu, the study first examines the diffusion and contestation of DEI into international business (IB). It then proposes a Bourdieu-inspired agenda to advance the transposition of SJ principles into IB.

Design/methodology/approach
The study interpretively reconstructs the process of DEI’s ideational diffusion. It examines how the interplay between ideas and field dynamics in IB shapes ideational processes and outcomes.

Findings
In response to rising global inequalities – to which multinational enterprises (MNEs) have significantly contributed – SJ movements have propelled DEI into the wider social and political arena, including corporate boardrooms. Within IB, a diluted version of DEI – IB-DEI – emerged as a paradigm to improve MNEs’ performance, but failed to address underlying structural inequalities. As the social impacts, utility and legitimacy of DEI have been challenged, the DEI debate has come to a flux. The study proposes conceptual and contextual extension of DEI within IB and advancing socially engaged research and practice that help reinforce DEI’s core SJ purpose – tackling structural inequalities.

Originality/value
The study is one of the few to openly tackle SJ-IB contradictions on DEI, while advancing the application of Bourdieu to critical studies of IB.
A knowledge-based directional multicriteria framework with defuzzified subset of preferences for sustainable banking strategy analysis
Authors: Nepomuceno Thyago Celso Cavalcante , de Carvalho Victor Diogho Heuer , Poleto Thiago , Figueiredo Ciro José Jardim 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThis article presents a methodological application of decision support with the purpose of identifying and better aligning sustainable banking strategies. Those strategies are based on best practices declared by employees and conducted during efficient periods affecting sustainable production, the health quality of clients, the organization’s profitability and social impact on the local community across different sectors.Design/methodology/approachThe approach involves a two-phase process: first, it employs directional data envelopment analysis (DEA) to benchmark knowledge based on employee opinions gathered through interviews to evaluate strategies related to banking services; then, using the best-worst method and ELECTRE outranking incorporating elements of fuzzy set theory based on an experienced decision-maker’s input, sustainable banking strategies are ranked according the different perspectives for leveraging outputs from the first step.FindingsThe outcomes yield a ranking of strategies, emphasizing the crucial role of technology in banking services while highlighting the need for more agile services to ensure customer satisfaction. This underscores the necessity of aligning with the market perspective, as fintech companies are reshaping the socio-technological-environmental landscape of financial services.Research limitations/implicationsThe research combined DEA and multicriteria analysis in the context of the banking sector, providing a comprehensive and analytically robust approach translated as a decision-making framework for promoting sustainability by aligning operational efficiency and social responsibility. These tools can guide banks in adopting more sustainable practices that benefit the institution, society and the environment.Practical implicationsDecisions in the banking sector encompass a wide array of concepts, from internal technical factors to customer feedback on service processes and offerings. The proposed approach considers decision analysis in complex environments, and the application developed in this study considered not only internal banking activity-oriented concepts but also the preferences of human agents developing them and the managerial perspective focused on issues involving components associated with sustainability.Originality/valueBy integrating DEA with multicriteria analysis, this study paves the way for a more efficient, environmentally conscious and socially responsible management scenario in the Brazilian banking sector. This research assesses operational efficiency and offers a comprehensive framework for selecting and implementing sustainable practices in the banking sector.
The provision of accounting ethics education in Ethiopian accounting programs: a structuration theory perspective
Authors: P. Ishwara , Mekonnen Naod 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
This study aims to explore the provision of accounting ethics education in Ethiopian accounting programs through structuration theory.

Design/methodology/approach
A qualitative case study methodology was used, and data were collected through semistructured interviews with faculty members, practitioners and regulatory bodies. The interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Accounting curricula were also analyzed to triangulate and support the findings.

Findings
The study revealed a significant gap in the status of accounting ethics education, primarily attributed to a misunderstanding of its importance. While faculty initiatives and student interest have partially mitigated this gap, systemic challenges such as rigid curricula, a lack of awareness and commitment, resource constraints and limited stakeholders’ support persisted. A combined approach to accounting ethics education is required to foster ethical behavior. Hence, the structuration theory highlighted how meanings, power dynamics and norms and values constrained and enabled the provision of accounting ethics education.

Research limitations/implications
The study emphasized the need for stakeholders to influence policymakers’ perceptions regarding the significance of accounting ethics education. The study also provided empirical support for structuration theory. Future research should involve cross-cultural comparisons and explore the ethical behavior of accounting professionals using diverse research designs to highlight the gaps and inform effective educational interventions.

Originality/value
This study contributes to the theoretical application of structuration theory in accounting ethics education. It underscores the critical role of comprehensive curricular reforms, stakeholder engagement and resource allocation.
Impact pathways: putting workers front and center in addressing workforce shortages in intellectual disability care
Authors: Peters Vincent , Frielink Noud , van Leest Carry , Heerkens Luciënne , Embregts Petri 
Published: August 2024

PurposeAddressing workforce shortages in operations and supply chain management (OSCM) necessitates adaptive measures by both individuals and organizations, with a pivotal role played by Human Resources (HR). This impact pathway delves into how healthcare organizations can effectively manage workforce shortages, informed by HR practices. Through an in-depth understanding of healthcare organizations, the authors pinpoint challenges and concerns linked to workforce shortages. Pathways are proposed to stimulate future OSCM research and collaboration, leveraging innovative and creative methods from the HR field.Design/methodology/approachData was collected from various representatives from healthcare organizations to explore how healthcare organizations for people with intellectual disabilities address the challenges stemming from contemporary workforce shortages.FindingsThree pathways were outlined to address workforce shortages in healthcare supply chains, utilizing intellectual disability care as a representative example. These pathways comprise optimizing the potential of the current workforce, illustrating innovative HR practices for enhancing their performance, and proposing strategies for retaining these valuable workers.Originality/valueDespite its potential, the HR domain remains relatively underdeveloped within OSCM research. The authors show how HR practices can potentially mitigate impending workforce shortages. While utilizing intellectual disability care as a representative example, this paper proposes that the impact pathways identified can be extended to various other healthcare settings.
An analysis of automakers navigating an evolving semiconductor landscape
Authors: Garcia José Augusto Campos , Arvidsson Ala , Jonsson Patrik 
Published: August 2024

PurposeIn this paper, we investigate the coevolution of the supply network and procurement strategies in the context of semiconductors and electronics for the automotive industry over 3 decades. We aim to explain how procurement strategy interrelates with changes in supply network structure and what the implications of a hub-centric structure network structure are for procurement in supply.Design/methodology/approachWe collected in-depth primary and secondary data that stretched back to 1996 from a leading automotive European original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and its network. Using social network analysis (SNA), we identified OEMs’ procurement focus and mapped the evolution of the supply network, the links in the network, and the environmental forces impacting the strategies and the network.FindingsOur findings describe the supply network for semiconductor and electronic components to the automotive industry. The findings suggest that a focus on cost can lead to a Tier 1-centric network structure with many tiers that can fail to assure supply or capture innovation when the external environment is marked by high uncertainty. In such situations, increasing complexity by creating more links in the network can improve transparency and contribute to supply assurance and innovation.Practical implicationsThe findings indicate that managers should consider the role of the supply network in selecting their strategy to attain objectives of cost, innovation, and supply assurance.Originality/valueThis paper presents empirical-based insights into the automotive semiconductor and electronic component supply chain (SC), the unexpected implications of hub-centric supply networks, and the use of SNA in the SC in context.
Explaining the role of integrated monetary banking system on transparency of interest-free institutions transactions: a case study at interest-free institutions of Iran
Authors: Leylabi Mehrdad , Malekan Sara , Majidpour Mehdi 
Published: August 2024

Purpose
The aim of this paper is to explain that what main characteristics financial technologies should have so that lead to improve the transparency of institutions and whether the integrated monetary banking system deployed in free-interest institutions has affected the transparency of these institutions in terms of those characteristics or not? In this study, the integrated monetary banking system will be studied subject to implementation of the Shafagh project.

Design/methodology/approach
Based on the literature review and the experts' opinions, the principles of the research questions were explained. Then, according to the dimensions of the research conceptual model, questions related to research questions were considered as the item for analysis in the modeling of structural equations. In the next step, 278 employees and managers of interest-free institutions were selected, by simple random sampling method, to answer the questionnaire. Data collected is analyzed by using structural equations method.

Findings
The results of the analysis indicates that the impact of the dimensions of strategic, technical, organizational and cultural factors – identified as the main characteristics of a financial system in this study – on the transparency of the transactions of the interest-free institutions is significant.

Research limitations/implications
The results were obtained by focusing on the qualitative factors and also on the culture on free-interest institutions.

Practical implications
By investigating the issues and factors that the developers, consultants and institutions’ managers need to address and also giving a conceptual model, this study assists managers and generally financial institutions in developing an integrated banking system in a way that will be more likely to improve transparency in those organizations.

Originality/value
This study pioneers a comprehensive conceptual model, surpassing prior research that focused on isolated criteria. This novel approach enriches understanding of core banking systems' impact on financial transparency. This groundbreaking study uniquely focuses on free-interest institutions, traditionally presumed to be transparent but never before studied.
Perceived fairness in the peer assessment process: a focus on Iranian architecture students in design studio education
Authors: Heidari Erfan , Saghafi Mahmoud Reza 
Published: August 2024

PurposeThis qualitative case study explores the challenges that architecture students encounter in grasping the concept of fair PA. The study also delves into the students' viewpoints on this matter and the strategies they utilize to navigate it.Design/methodology/approachAround 29 architecture students took part in the PA process. Data was gathered by observing PA sessions and conducting interviews with students. The data was then analyzed using the thematic method.FindingsThe study uncovers fairness challenges from the perspective of architecture students, such as concerns regarding collusion, power dynamics within friend groups, limitations of participatory culture, and overwhelming responsibility. The study suggests that a multistage PA process can be an effective approach to addressing fairness challenges. Furthermore, it sheds light on the obstacles that architecture students face in comprehending fairness and their viewpoints and tactics regarding fairness during PA.Practical implicationsThe findings indicate that increasing students' engagement in learning activities during the critique and assessment process in the DS can enhance their understanding of fairness in PA and boost their satisfaction with final course grades.Originality/valueThis study investigates the relationship between architecture students' engagement and assessment fairness, by focusing on the role of perceived fair PA within design studio settings.