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Predator encounters during early life can elicit behavioral and physiological responses that have fitness consequences during subsequent prey life stages. In threatened lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) and other lithophilic-spawning fishes, newly hatched larvae (free embryos) are exposed to abundant predators including aquatic insect larvae that co-occupy stream substrates. We investigated stress effects on lake sturgeon larvae after encounters with common aquatic insect predators by quantifying mortality, body size, cortisol levels, and swimming behavior. Free embryos were exposed to either Perlidae (stonefly obligate predators) or Isonychiidae (mayfly filterers and facultative predators) or to no predators (controls). Free embryos that encountered perlids experienced high mortality, elevated cortisol levels, and exhibited cortisol reactivity when subsequently exposed to an acute stressor. Free embryos that encountered isonychiids exhibited elevated mortality, and elevated cortisol and cortisol reactivity relative to controls. Findings indicate that lake sturgeon free embryos are stressed by exposure to members of benthic stream communities during early life stages (predation of nearby conspecifics), and that metrics of stress exhibited threat sensitivity. Data are consistent with predictions that individuals modulate antipredator behavior in response to the intensity of perceived predation threat in the environment. We determined that behavioral outcomes associated with encounters with aquatic insects altered future behavioral trajectories, potentially as an adaptive response that can affect predation rates in subsequent life stages. Results contribute to a broader understanding of how interspecies interactions among co-occurring predator and prey communities may impact individual fitness and fish population recruitment.

Water scarcity is increasingly a global cause of concern mainly due to widespread changes in climate conditions and increased consumptive water use driven by the exponential increase in population growth. In addition, increased pollution of fresh water sources due to rising production and consumption of pharmaceuticals and organic chemicals will further exacerbate this concern. Although surface water contamination by individual chemicals is often at very low concentration, pharmaceuticals for instance are designed to be efficacious at low concentrations, creating genuine concern for their presence in freshwater sources. Furthermore, the additive impact of multiple compounds may result in toxic or other biological effects that otherwise will not be induced by individual chemicals. Globally, different legislative frameworks have led to pre-emptive efforts which aim to ensure good water ecological status. Reports detailing the use and types of effect-based measures covering specific bioassay batteries that can identify specific mode of actions of chemical pollutants in the aquatic ecosystem to evaluate the real threat of pollutants to aquatic lives and ultimately human lives have recently emerged from monitoring networks such as the NORMAN network. In this review, we critically evaluate some studies within the last decade that have implemented effect-based monitoring of pharmaceuticals and organic chemicals in aquatic fauna, evaluating the occurrence of different chemical pollutants and the impact of these pollutants on aquatic fauna with special focus on pollutants that are contaminants of emerging concern (CEC) in urban wastewater. A critical discussion on studies that have used effect-based measures to assess biological impact of pharmaceutical/organic compound in the aquatic ecosystem and the endpoints measurements employed is presented. The application of effect-based monitoring of chemicals other than assessment of water quality status is also discussed.

Poly- and perfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) are a group of synthetic organic surfactants that have become a global concern because of their toxicity and widespread presence in the aquatic environment and organisms globally. In this study, a new analytical method has been developed and validated for the analysis of 15 perfluorinated compounds in different water matrices: river water, drinking water and seawater. Water extraction was performed in anion exchange solid phase extraction cartridges, and extracts were analysed by liquid chromatography in tandem with mass spectrometry. Recoveries for target analytes were between 35 and 120%, depending on the water matrix. Method detection limits were in the range of 0.5–17 ng L−1. The validated method was applied to the determination of perfluorinated compounds in water samples around Ireland. Eight compounds out of fifteen were detected at least in one sample. Measured concentrations were higher in river water than seawater, and drinking water had the lowest levels, although still detectable for a considerable amount of compounds. The most prevalent compounds were PFPeA, PFOA and PFHxA, present in all types of water, and they had the highest concentrations.

Organoboron chemistry began more than 150 years ago when the synthesis and reactivity of triethylborane was described. Organoboron chemistry research has rapidly increased within the past few decades due to the increased usage of organoboron compounds in organic synthesis and biomedical applications. This chapter gives an overview of the general physical and chemical characteristics of select organoboron compounds. Only compounds incorporating a boron–carbon bond are discussed in detail.

Fear of COVID-19 has been understandably widespread, given continual exposure to dire information from pandemic media coverage and interpersonal communications. The present study addresses a limitation of the extended parallel process model in predicting fear of COVID-19 by inclusion of the concept of emotional contagion. The main gap in the literature is filled by the study’s distinctive contribution that broadens and upgrades the extended parallel process model. The model is extended by its integration with the theory of emotional processing. The study is based on a national panel of adults (N = 206). The methods include path modeling by SmartPLS. In addition, multigroup analyses examine overall model differences between gender classifications. Findings and conclusions can be used to minimize excessive fear, and at the same time to promote confidence in following official public guidance and protective regulations to cope with the pandemic. © The Author(s) 2023.

As companies continue to put data and business analytics as their top priority, universities will need to supply students with the appropriate skill sets that meet this demand and offer future opportunities to their graduates. Although business analytics is a new field, many of the required competencies stem from already established areas such as Information/Computer Technology or Information Systems. Using a sample of 225 randomly selected AACSB accredited business schools this study examined the new developments in Business Analytics undergraduate academic programs, and determined the amount of overlap between the Business Analytics and the Information/Computer Technology degree programs. Our findings reveal that approximately 36 percent of the Business Analytics programs overlap with the Information/Computer Technology programs. In addition, the top three required courses in most Business Analytics programs include a Database course, predictive analytics course, and Introduction to Business Analytics. This research provides valuable insight for schools that haven't adopted a Business Analytics degree yet or are looking to improve their existing curriculum. In addition, colleges and universities can now utilize the appropriate Information Systems courses and include them as important foundation and part of their Business Analytics programs.

Faculty teaching data analytics at undergraduate level are often faced with the tension created by student under-preparedness, the demands of the course, and time constraints. How do faculty close this gap? In this paper, we propose the use of flow diagramming as an accessible method for interpreting regression analyses, in ways that are time efficient and not alienating to the student. Our study shows that the use of such flow diagrams has a positive effect on student understanding without additional remedial instruction. Time saved can be directed at core learning objectives of the analytics.

Logistic regression (LoR) is a foundational supervised machine learning algorithm and yet, unlike linear regression, appears rarely taught early on, where analogy and proximity to linear regression would be an advantage. A random sample of 50 syllabi from undergraduate business statistics courses shows only two percent of the courses included LoR. Conceivable reasons for this dearth of LoR content is likely related to topic complexity, time constraints, and varying degrees of tool ease of use and support. We propose that these constraints can be countered by: [1] introducing logistic regression early, [2] informed tool selection prioritizing ease of use with comprehensive output, and [3] using/developing innovative, accessible, and easy to understand concept learning aids. This approach would leverage the proximity to linear regression and probability readily embed distributed practice for student understanding of a foundational technique.

Blockchain is being promoted as the platform to disrupt business as usual in many transaction-heavy sectors. Questions remain about the future standards of blockchain, their feature set, functionality, and the willingness of organisations to disrupt their existing revenue streams via blockchain.  The most significant near-term promise that affords industry is the cost and complexity savings via the standardization of their technology infrastructure stacks.  This paper explores the benefits available of reduced costs and complexity via the adoption of blockchain.

Successful property management, which can be done by individual owners or by professional property managers, has numerous interrelated complex business processes: tenant attraction, screening, leasing, tenant move-in, property maintenance, retention/lease renewals, tenant move-out, and reputation management. Property managers must be highly skilled communicators and thoroughly understand the legal implications of housing and contract law in their operating environments. The lack of affordable solutions available to small and mid-sized property managers drives their use of fragmented technology solutions provided by numerous technology vendors that employ redundant data-gathering methods, putting them at a competitive disadvantage. This research paper explores the information systems needs of property managers in contrast to the solutions available to them in the marketplace.

BACKGROUND: Adoption of the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model has been slowed by a lack of available tools to support implementation. The Wellness School Assessment Tool (WellSAT) WSCC is an online assessment tool that allows schools to evaluate the alignment of their policies with the WSCC model. This study assesses the usability of the WellSAT WSCC. METHODS: Using a convergent mixed methods design, we collected qualitative and quantitative data from 5 school-based participants with roles in development and evaluation of policy. Participants explored the platform while engaging in a think-aloud procedure and scored a sample policy using the platform. They also completed the System Usability Scale and responded to open-ended questions about the usability of the platform. RESULTS: Participants rated the WellSAT WSCC as an above-average user experience, but data suggested several areas for improvement, including improved instructions, enhanced visual design of the platform, and guidance for subsequent policy changes. CONCLUSION: The WellSAT WSCC provides an above-average user experience but can be improved to increase user experience. These improvements increase the potential for greater use to facilitate integration of the WSCC model into school policy. © 2023, American School Health Association.

There has been a heightened awareness of an increased risk of suicidality among individuals with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) due to high rates of suicidal ideation (SI) in this population (11–66%). The current study investigated the rate of parent-endorsed SI and associated clinical features in 48 youths with ASD (Age; M: 12.97 years, SD: 2.33). SI was endorsed in 18.75% of participants. Youth with SI exhibited significantly higher levels of affective problems, externalizing problems, feelings of humiliation and rejection, and symptoms related to perfectionism. Results indicate that co-occurring mental health problems are associated with suicidal ideation and provide relevant targets for psychotherapeutic intervention. This preliminary study in a modest sample suggests the value of further research in larger samples to replicate and generalize these findings.

The syndrome of infantile autism was identified in 1943 (although cases clearly were present earlier). Very quickly there began to be a debate about the nature of autism and the boundaries of the autism phenotype. In the 1970s multiple lines of evidence emerged to suggest that autism should be recognized as a disorder in its own right and this happened in 1980. Since that time there has been an explosion of research and the debate about the boundaries of the diagnostic concept has continued. It does appear that individuals on the autism spectrum present special issues and challenges in terms of their interactions with the legal system at all levels. In this chapter we summarize the state of scientific knowledge and highlight some important areas relevant to those who deal with individuals with autism in legal settings.

An ongoing debate continues at universities surrounding whether or not to raise minimum grade standards. Because of an inherent risk that enrollments may decline as a result, it is important to examine whether minimum grade policies are associated with improved student performance. To address this issue, the current study examines the relationship between higher minimum grade requirements in introductory accounting and student grades. The new minimum grade requirement of “C” was established beginning with the fall 2015 semester for introductory accounting to strengthen the quality of the program for an AACSB application. The research design included modeling introductory accounting grades over a ten-year period to examine any effect of the increase in the minimum grade on students’ grades in the course. The multivariate regression equation considered variables previously found associated with introductory accounting grades (i.e., status as accounting major, grade point average, mathematics preparedness and previous experience taking the course). An additional dichotomous variable was introduced to capture the impact of students on the new program. All students were taught by the same professor, using the same textbook, teaching philosophy and examination format to enhance the comparison. Results suggest average grades in introductory accounting did not improve as expected.

Defined benefit pension plans are a bedrock of the U.S. economy providing guaranteed payment streams at pre-established amounts. Results suggest public plans, sponsored by State and Local governments, and private plans, sponsored by public corporations, are unfunded. State plans were found to have the largest pension and unfunded pension liabilities. Examination of relationships between unfunded pension liabilities and fiscal or financial stability of sponsoring organizations suggests unfunded State pension plans are more likely to be sponsored by financially struggling sponsors measured by general obligation bond ratings. Local governments and Corporations with unfunded pension plans are less likely to be struggling financially. Fiscal distress of Local governments was measured by survival analysis. Corporation financial distress was quantified by a model designed to predict bankruptcy. Financially stable organizations failing to fund pension plans, in this case local governments and corporations, suggests a lack of social responsibility.

It is likely that accountants will face pressure to act unethically during their careers. We offer 10 practical steps to help financial professionals prepare for and respond to the pressure to act unethically.

According to a 2020 survey of 600 senior executives conducted by Harvard Business Review, 55% of organizations agreed that data analytics for decision making is extremely important and 92% asserted data analytics for decision making will be even more important in two years (bit.ly/3PBRENs). Organizations that strategically deploy tools across their finance and accounting functions have an opportunity to better structure manual processes into more stable, accurate, repeatable, and readily auditable procedures (see Gregory Kogan, Nathan Myers, Daniel J. Gaydon, and Douglas M. Boyle, "Advancing Digital Transformation," Strategic Finance, December 2021, bit.ly/3V45v0h). [...]financial decision makers are increasingly expected to engage data analytics to enhance decision making and create more efficient processes. Deployment/communication It's very important to assign responsibilities to team members (e.g., business analysts establish requirements, IT specialists gather required data, and data scientists develop and test advanced modeling techniques) with the requisite skills that vary among the phases. [...]unstructured data is data that has no uniform structure and typically isn't text-based, for example, image or sound files.