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This paper aims to investigate the problem of vision based autonomous laparoscope control, which can serve as the primary function for semi-autonomous minimally invasive surgical robot system. Providing the surgical gesture recognition information is a fundamental key component for enabling intelligent context-aware assistance in autonomous laparoscope control task. While significant advances have been made in recent years, how to effectively carry out the efficient integration of surgical gesture recognition and autonomous laparoscope control algorithms for robotic assisted minimally invasive surgical robot system is still an open and challenging topic.

The authors demonstrate a novel surgeon in-loop semi-autonomous robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery framework by integrating the surgical gesture recognition and autonomous laparoscope control tasks. Specifically, they explore using a transformer-based deep convolutional neural network to effectively recognize the current surgical gesture. Next, they propose an autonomous laparoscope control model to provide optimal field of view which is in line with surgeon intra-operation preferences.

The effectiveness of this surgical gesture recognition methodology is demonstrated on the public JIGSAWS and Cholec80 data sets, outperforming the comparable state-of-the-art methods. Furthermore, the authors have validated the effectiveness of the proposed semi-autonomous framework on the developed HUAQUE surgical robot platforms.

This study demonstrates the feasibility to perform cognitive assistant human–robot shared control for semi-autonomous robotic-assisted minimally invasive surgery, contributing to the reference for further surgical intelligence in computer-assisted intervention systems.

An efficient customer behavior prediction model is designed using deep learning techniques. The necessary data used for the implementation are taken from standard datasets and presented to perform subsequent tasks. Here, deep restricted Boltzmann machines (RBM) features are retrieved from the input images. Further, the extracted deep RBM features are presented to the customer behavior prediction phase. Here, the attention-based hybrid deep learning (A-HDL) technique is designed based on the incorporation of a dilated deep temporal convolutional network (dilated-DTCN) and a weighted recurrent neural network (weighted RNN). Moreover, the weights in RNN are tuned using a modernized random parameter-based cheetah optimizer (MRPCO). Further, various experiments were performed on the implemented framework, and it secured an enhanced customer behavior prediction rate than the conventional models.

A novel hybrid deep network-based customer behavior prediction model was developed to predict the behavior of the customer so the companies yield more income by advertising their products based on the predicted results.

When considering the first dataset, the designed customer behavior prediction mechanism produced 94% accuracy, which is higher than the conventional techniques such as long short-term memory (LSTM), DTCN, RNN and A-HDL with 88%, 87%, 89% and 93%.

The precision and the accuracy of the developed MRPCO-A-HDL-based customer behavior prediction model progressed than the conventional techniques and algorithms.

The paper applies the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) to investigate how surrogate advertising on social media platforms influences consumer attitudes towards alcohol products. Additionally, it explores the moderating effect of consumer scepticism on these attitudes.

A cross-sectional survey of 304 consumers was conducted to test the hypotheses using variance-based structural equation modelling (VB-SEM). Slope analysis was used to examine interaction moderation effects, while importance-performance map analysis (IPMA) identified key dimensions influencing alcohol purchasing behaviour.

The findings revealed that subjective norms and behavioural intentions significantly influence alcohol purchasing behaviour in the context of surrogate advertising on social media. The results suggest that advertisers should focus on themes of collective consumption, camaraderie and togetherness in their social media advertising content to enhance sale outcomes.

Research on surrogate advertising on social media platforms, particularly in shaping attitudes towards alcohol products, remains limited. This study addresses this gap, offering marketers critical insights into performance-based variables that can help them develop more effective marketing strategies.

In recent years, investing with robo-advisors has gained momentum and is seen as a simplifying approach for individual investors to participate in financial markets. This chapter contributes to a better understanding of the concept of a robo-advisory and its implications for private investors by discussing its past, present, and future. It explores key issues, like cost-efficiency, historical performance, and automation levels, based on research and industry insights. Moreover, this chapter examines a robo-advisor's benefits, limitations, and challenges, like behavioral biases, regulation, and risk profiling. Finally, the importance of the ongoing megatrends of AI and green investing is examined concerning a robo-advisory.

As cannabis markets have expanded and nonalcoholic beer sales have grown, craft beverage manufacturers are increasingly interested in alternative beverage markets for product differentiation. This study evaluates consumer perceptions of nonalcoholic, cannabis-infused beverages to explore the market potential.

The study used survey data from 1,094 US beer drinkers to identify consumer willingness to try and general perceptions of cannabis-infused beverages. First, we identified who is most likely to try cannabis-infused beverages using multinomial logistic regression analysis. Then, we identified perceptions of cannabis-infused beverages relative to conventional beer by asking respondents to rate the expected taste, nutrition, safety and price for one of three hypothetical product options: a traditional beer, a cannabidiol (CBD) beverage or a tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) beverage. Comparisons across products were then drawn using standard statistical tests.

Approximately 53–56% of beer drinkers in our sample stated they were willing to try cannabis-infused beverages, with age, product knowledge and past purchasing behaviors correlating with this response. Additionally, consumers expected cannabis-infused beverage scores to have similar safety and nutrition metrics to traditional beer but at higher prices. On average, consumers expected CBD- and THC-infused beverages to be $0.33 and $0.98 more expensive per six-pack than a conventional beer, respectively.

With an evolving craft beverage and cannabis landscape, these results provide a glimpse into beer drinkers’ attitudes toward CBD- and THC-infused beverages. The results offer novel insights into the target audience and market potential for cannabis-infused beverages that manufacturers and entrepreneurs can use in their business strategies. Additionally, the findings can be useful to policymakers and public health officials in monitoring this emerging market, informing policy design and designing public health messaging. Lastly, the study opens avenues for future research on consumer perceptions of cannabis versus alcoholic products across academic disciplines.

This study introduces a methodology that combines geographic information technologies and consumer behaviour principles to define, delineate and quantify the trade area (TA) of a bank branch within the context of mergers and acquisitions (M&A). The goal is to design an optimal distribution network tailored to the needs of financial institutions involved in M&A activities.

The paper presents a procedure for TA delimitation, grounded in a theoretical model supported by marketing and consumer behaviour theories, focusing on proximity, purchase frequency and product type.

Addressing a gap in the literature, this study highlights TA delineation as a key element in marketing strategy, exploring its role in establishing optimal distribution networks, particularly for financial institutions engaged in M&A.

For simplicity, the study focuses on a single bank branch, rather than a broader dataset.

The proposed methodology enables more accurate delineation of TAs in M&A processes, mitigating the negative effects often overlooked by banks during mergers and acquisitions.

This approach helps reduce the risk of financial exclusion for vulnerable clients, promoting social and economic equity and fostering a fairer, more cohesive society.

This study is innovative in integrating geographic information science (GIS) metrics into location science, proposing fragmentation analysis to quantify the spatial structure and configuration of TAs. This approach departs from traditional practices, as these specific metrics have not been collectively applied in previous research.

Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to dramatically change the human approaches to work, and specifically to learning and development. While AI coaching can reduce costs and increase accessibility, it also presents both opportunities and threats to human coaches. The objective of this study was to conduct a systematic literature review of peer-reviewed research on the use of AI in coaching.

A systematic literature review (SLR) method was used to search eight databases for articles produced up to March 2024. Data extraction was conducted, with Quality Assessment undertaken independently, in parallel, using two researchers and a third arbiter. The ROBINS-I tool was used to assess the risk of bias in the included studies. A narrative synthesis of a total of 16 quantitative, qualitative or mixed-method studies covering n = 2312.

The SLR identified four key themes: Research design and AI integration, AI usefulness in coaching, impact of AI coaching and ethical considerations. The findings suggest that AI coaches can be effective, accepted, useful and match human coaches in competence for specific tasks.

AI coaching is a growing area of practice and research. This paper brings together the literature and identifies future research priorities and potential next steps in AI coach development.

The paper uses clinical research SLR methods applying these robust processes to the field of organisational research, to set a new standard through the use of a pre-determined research protocol, quality assessment and ROB, well providing a comprehensive literature review of AI coaching.

The purpose of this paper is to examine the complexities of crowdfunding for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Bangladesh, with a focus on its global significance and unique characteristics in Muslim nations. By identifying key challenges such as the lack of a legislative framework, limited understanding of crowdfunding strategies and insufficient knowledge among entrepreneurs, this paper aims to provide recommendations for overcoming these obstacles. Through the analysis of open access articles published between 2015 and 2023, supplemented by occasional non-open access resources, this review seeks to contribute to the understanding of crowdfunding dynamics in emerging economies and inform policy and practice in this area.

A comprehensive review of the obstacles facing crowdfunding in Bangladesh’s SME sector was conducted using a diverse range of literature sources. These included 15 paid journal articles, 49 open-access journal articles, three conference papers, two websites and 11 book chapters. The selection of paid articles was based on criteria such as relevance to crowdfunding and fintech in emerging markets, recentness and influence. The review focused on literature published between 2015 and June 2024, encompassing key developments like the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Articles were sourced from platforms like Typeset.io, Google Scholar and ResearchGate, with themes categorized by cultural, social, regulatory, technological and economic factors.

This review paper explores the complexities of crowdfunding in the context of SMEs in Bangladesh. It provides insights into its worldwide significance, unique characteristics in Muslim nations and the obstacles encountered in the financial environment of Bangladesh. Crowdfunding has become a prominent worldwide trend, revolutionizing traditional fundraising methods and providing a wide range of funding options for different projects. Nevertheless, the implementation of this technology in Bangladesh, despite its significant role in the worldwide economic sphere, is hindered by various obstacles. The assessment highlights the capacity of crowdfunding to tackle the financial obstacles encountered by SMEs in Bangladesh, which is a crucial sector for the economic progress of the country. The current crowdfunding platforms in Bangladesh, including Projekt.co, GoRiseMe, Fundsme and Oporajoy, encounter reliability problems, which impede the wider adoption of this innovative financial model, despite its tremendous potential. Multiple factors contribute to the lack of popularity of crowdfunding in Bangladesh. These factors comprise the absence of a legislative framework, a poor comprehension of various crowdfunding strategies and a general lack of knowledge among entrepreneurs. The research highlights various obstacles, including limited expertise, insufficient government backing, reputational risk, security weaknesses and the adverse characteristics of crowdfunding, as major hindrances. Moreover, this study investigates the factors that contribute to the lack of acceptance of crowdfunding among entrepreneurs and investors in Bangladesh. Challenges concerning the financial system, regulatory deficiencies and a deficit of confidence arise as crucial elements impeding the efficient exploitation of crowdsourcing. Cultural and behavioral factors, together with technical literacy, significantly influence crowdfunding intentions. To surmount these obstacles and fully use the possibilities of crowdfunding for economic advancement, the assessment puts out a number of suggestions. These factors encompass the requirement for a secure and reliable financial industry, strong development of policies, increased clarity and the incorporation of all individuals and groups. To enhance confidence, safeguard backers’ interests and expedite the adoption of crowdfunding in Bangladesh, it is recommended to implement government intervention, regulatory reforms and integrate blockchain technology. For crowdfunding to thrive in Bangladesh and make a substantial contribution to economic progress, it is necessary for multiple stakeholders to make coordinated and determined efforts. To fully unlock the revolutionary power of crowdfunding in Bangladesh’s SMEs financial landscape, it is crucial to address the regulatory loopholes, improve financial awareness and use innovative technology.

The reliance on open-access sources, influenced by budget constraints and the lack of institutional access, may introduce some bias. However, the inclusion of a few key paid articles, identified through Typeset.io and reviewed for their relevance, aimed to mitigate this limitation and provide a well-rounded analysis.

The practical implications of this review paper are significant for improving crowdfunding adoption in Bangladesh’s SME sector. By identifying cultural, social, regulatory, technological and economic barriers, this paper provides insights for policymakers to design better regulations that ensure security and transparency in crowdfunding. It can also guide crowdfunding platforms to address these challenges, making their models more accessible and reliable. Entrepreneurs and investors can benefit from a clearer understanding of crowdfunding as an alternative financing option. In addition, this paper offers a foundation for future research and the development of fintech solutions tailored to emerging markets.

The social implications of this review paper are crucial for fostering inclusive entrepreneurship in Bangladesh. By addressing the barriers to crowdfunding, particularly for women and marginalized groups, the findings can promote greater access to finance for underrepresented entrepreneurs. This could lead to increased economic participation and empowerment, helping bridge the financial gap for SMEs in underserved communities. In addition, enhancing crowdfunding adoption can drive innovation, encourage community-based projects and support social enterprises, contributing to overall socioeconomic development. The insights can inspire initiatives that make crowdfunding more inclusive, helping uplift disadvantaged groups in Bangladesh’s entrepreneurial landscape.

The originality/value of this review paper lies in its comprehensive analysis of the complexities of crowdfunding for SMEs in Bangladesh, particularly within the context of Muslim nations. By synthesizing existing literature and identifying key challenges such as the lack of a legislative framework, limited understanding of crowdfunding strategies and insufficient knowledge among entrepreneurs, this review offers valuable insights for policymakers, practitioners and researchers. The recommendations proposed, including secure financial practices, strong policies and government intervention, alongside regulatory reforms and blockchain integration, contribute to advancing knowledge and informing strategies to promote sustainable crowdfunding initiatives for SMEs in emerging economies.

Smoke-free prison policies have been introduced in some countries, in part to address very high levels of tobacco use in people in prison. However, relapse rates post-release remain high. This papers aims to improve understanding of post-release smoking and/or vaping behaviour is necessary to inform support for a priority population.

The authors searched health, social science and criminal justice databases for studies about smoking/vaping behaviours among people released from smoke-free prisons. Studies were included if they reported primary data and were published between January 2017 and March 2024 in English; the population was adults/young people (16 yr+) imprisoned or formerly imprisoned, in prisons with comprehensive smoke-free policies; and at least one of the following was reported: pre-release intention to smoke, vape or remain abstinent post-release; smoking/vaping behaviour post-release and factors influencing smoking/vaping behaviour; attempts to quit again following post-release smoking/vaping relapse.

Nine studies met our criteria. The evidence base is small and mainly from the USA or Australia. Evidence continues to suggest that most people resume smoking after leaving a smoke-free prison. No new interventions have been successful in reducing relapse rates. No studies report on vaping post-release, although two studies report on perceived factors affecting smoking relapse post-release from prisons allowing vaping.

Given very high rates of relapse, there remains a significant need to better understand what approaches are feasible and acceptable for reducing return to smoking post-release.

This review updates the limited evidence on smoking behaviours after leaving a smoke-free prison.