bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deterministic Generation of Concatenated Graph Codes from Quantum Emitters
Authors: Pettersson Love A. , Sørensen Anders S. , Paesani Stefano
Published: January 2025

Photon loss is the dominant noise mechanism in photonic quantum technologies. Designing fault-tolerant schemes with high tolerance to loss is thus a central challenge in scaling photonic quantum information processors. Concatenation of a fault-tolerant construction with a code able to efficiently correct loss is a promising approach to achieve this but practical ways to implement code concatenation with photons have been lacking. We propose schemes for generating concatenated graph codes using multiphoton emission from two quantum emitters or a single quantum emitter coupled to a memory—capabilities available in several photonic platforms. We show that these schemes enable fault-tolerant fusion-based quantum computation in practical regimes with high photon loss and standard fusion gates without the need for auxiliary photons.

Published by the American Physical Society
2025
Re-imagining client learning and knowledge sharing of architectural services through a multi-layered journey map tool
Authors: Yönder Çiğdem , Mertens Audrey , Hamarat Yaprak , Elsen Catherine
Published: January 2025

Purpose

In this paper, we investigate the current conditions as well as possibilities of a better interaction between architects and user–clients in the Belgian single-family housing context. We specifically focus on issues around client learning and knowledge sharing of architectural services.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the research through design methodology, we report on a co-design process converging towards a multi-layered journey map tool. We analyze the discussions held between architects and user-clients during “Ideation & Design” workshops that led to this specific tool idea, within a broader co-design process context.

Findings

In terms of client learning and knowledge sharing, there is a need for (1) sharing the process knowledge, (2) clarifying responsibilities and missions of both parties and (3) considering different levels of engagement of user-clients. Current ways of interaction around these issues are mostly based on verbal exchanges during meetings and written explanations in contracts. In terms of future expectations, it has been revealed that both parties are in favor of (1) keeping the relationship trustworthy but informal, (2) using visual ways of representing the architectural journey and (3) providing additional “pedagogical” support when needed.

Originality/value

Our work not only discusses current practices regarding client learning and knowledge sharing of architectural services but also highlights the future-oriented aspirations of architects and user-clients. It proposes actionable design criteria and a multi-layered journey map tool to support the relationship between architects and user-clients, both transferable to architectural education.
How does bricolage drive knowledge innovation in engineering project organizations?
Authors: Xie Bin , Wang Zhenyu , Xu Yiling , Cui Libing
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Emergencies have become a growing concern for organizations, which require flexibility to respond to changes in emergencies based on their contingency, dynamic evolution rapidly and other characteristics. In order to enhance the ability of engineering project organizations to cope with emergencies, this study explores the mechanism of its influence on knowledge innovation under emergencies from the perspective of bricolage theory, and provides a new perspective for the traditional preplanning-based handling of emergencies by improvising to enhance the ability and results of improvisation.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, a structural equation model of the relationship between bricolage and knowledge innovation was constructed by introducing improvisational behavior and serendipity as mediating and moderating variables of the relationship between bricolage and knowledge innovation based on bricolage theory; secondly, drawing on previous well-established measurement scales about bricolage, improvisational behavior, knowledge innovation and serendipity, a questionnaire survey was conducted with different types of engineering project managers and technicians in Gansu Province as the research subjects, and 238 valid questionnaires were returned; finally, validation factor analysis and correlation analysis were performed, and the hypothesized relationships were verified using AMOS 24.0 software.

Findings

The results show that bricolage positively influences improvisational behavior; improvisational behavior positively influences knowledge innovation; bricolage positively influences knowledge innovation; bricolage influences knowledge innovation through the mediating role of improvisational behavior and serendipity positively moderates the impact of resource bricolage on knowledge innovation.

Originality/value

It reveals the mechanism of knowledge innovation of engineering project organizations in response to emergencies and the innovation mechanism of the episodic nature of emergency decision-making, extends the applicable context of bricolage theory and provides a new perspective for engineering project organizations in response to emergencies.
Millennial executives: effects of the age-inverse relationship in CEO–top management team on corporate misconduct in China’s construction industry
Authors: Du Xueyao , Liu Junying , Chen Yuxuan , Wang Zhixiu
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study examines whether and how the age-inverse relationship between the chief executive officer (CEO) and the top management team (TMT) affects corporate misconduct in China’s construction industry. Drawing on social identity theory, we propose that the age-inverse relationship in CEO–TMT may diminish their social identity and further decrease the likelihood of corporate misconduct in construction firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a longitudinal dataset of firms in China’s construction industry covering the years 2003 through 2021, this study adopted a logit regression model with fixed effects.

Findings

The results show that the age-inverse relationship in CEO–TMT is negatively related to corporate misconduct. Further investigations suggest that performance feedback moderates the relationship between the age-inverse relationship in CEO–TMT and corporate misconduct. Firms with an age-inverse relationship between CEOs and TMTs are more likely to engage in fraudulent behavior when performance is above aspirations and less likely to commit fraud when performance is below aspirations.

Research limitations/implications

The sample of this study is limited to China’s construction firms. Drawing on social identity theory, this study explores the relationship between the age-inverse relationship and corporate misconduct in China’s construction industry, which enriches the antecedents of corporate misconduct and contributes to CEO–TMT interface research within construction firms.

Practical implications

This study provides a guideline for construction firms on how to regulate and reduce misconduct. It will offer insights into human resource arrangements within the management of construction firms in an aging context.

Originality/value

Considering that few studies explore fraudulent behavior of construction companies at the upper echelon level, this study focuses on a novel and new antecedent (i.e. age-inverse relationship in CEO–TMT) and its boundary conditions. The findings extend the research on corporate misconduct and strategic leadership in the construction industry.
Labor shortage: a critical reflection and a call for industry-academia collaboration
Authors: Kwok Linchi
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This critical reflection aims to initiate an engaging dialogue about the labor shortage challenge facing the hospitality and tourism (H&T) industry. This paper discusses RQ1. Will the worsening labor shortage challenge improve in the short term? RQ2. How can industry professionals and academic leaders/professors work together to address the labor shortage issue? RQ3. How can academic research help address such a challenge?

Design/methodology/approach

RQ1 was answered with three propositions in a critical reflection of relevant news updates, industrial/market reports and carefully selected relevant literature. Suggestions were made to respond to RQ2 and RQ3 in three areas of talent management: talent acquisition, learning and development and talent retention.

Findings

The worsening labor shortage challenge will likely continue for some years due to an imbalance in labor supply/demand. The H&T industry should work closely with the H&T programs (one key supplier of managerial talent) to find solutions to the ongoing problem.

Research limitations/implications

This reflection focuses only on preliminary suggestions but could inspire related research endeavors.

Practical implications

This paper suggests numerous industry–academia collaboration initiatives under talent management to address the worsening labor shortage.

Social implications

A strong industry–academia collaboration would address low enrollment in H&T programs, helping them recruit and retain top students. Eventually, a larger student candidate pool for managerial talent could help the industry meet the shifting labor demand.

Originality/value

This timely reflection addresses a critical, worsening labor shortage situation in the H&T industry by offering original ideas and calling for a broader and more in-depth discussion among all H&T stakeholders.
Shocks in green and conventional energy consumption and their impacts on economic growth: a revisit for China and India
Authors: Krishna Aparna , Parween Kulsum , Irfan Mohd
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to argue that responses in economic growth (EG) resulting from positive and negative shocks in energy consumption could be a non-linear phenomenon. Thus, the study aims to investigate the existence of non-linear long-run effects of positive and negative shocks in green and conventional energy consumption on EG for China and India. By decomposing energy consumption in positive and negative shocks, the study seeks to determine the distinct impact of positive and negative shocks in energy (conventional and green) consumption on EG of China and India.

Design/methodology/approach

A non-linear autoregressive distributed lag (NARDL) model based on energy-augmented environment Kuznets curve (EKC) framework is used on annual time series covering the period 1965–2021. The study uses a precise econometric methodology, starting with unit root tests to assess stationarity, moving to the estimation of the NARDL model, which resulted in the calculation of long-run coefficients and error correction terms to analyse the rate of adjustment towards equilibrium.

Findings

The empirical findings demonstrate that there exists a non-linear cointegrating relationship among EG, carbon emissions and green and conventional energy consumption for both economies. In the long run, a non-linear impact of green energy consumption (GEC) on EG is evident for China only, whereas non-linear impact of conventional energy consumption (CEC) on EG is visible for both countries.

Practical implications

While China and India prioritise energy diversification by embracing green energy to promote energy security and limit rising carbon emissions, it is interesting to investigate how positive and negative shocks in GEC and CEC have affected their EG. Second, this paper examines the trade-offs between EG and GEC/CEC in China and India, two high-carbon emitters. The disparities in trade-offs may indicate how well each country’s energy policies address increased EG with fewer energy-induced carbon emissions.

Originality/value

This study examines non-linear cointegration among the variables of interest, whereas most prior studies have focused on linear cointegration. The existence of non-linear cointegration may suggest that positive and negative shocks in GEC and CEC can result in non-linear reactions in EG. Thus, it establishes a basis for examining the non-linear long-term effects of GEC and CEC on EG. The research findings indicate significant consequences and necessitate prompt intervention to alleviate the detrimental impacts of shocks in GEC and CEC on EG in China and India and provide several important inputs to address the inherent challenges of energy transition goals.
Tourist taxes in Mauritius – assessing the laws of Mauritius and tourists’ perception
Authors: Beebeejaun Ambareen
Published: January 2025

Purpose

One way of addressing the negative effect of tourism is the imposition of tourist taxes. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to look at the various forms of tourist taxes in Mauritius and the perceptions of tourists relating to effective tourist taxes in terms of their willingness to pay tourist taxes, the existence of a clear and precise legislation, the appropriate amount of tax to be collected and the uses of this tax money. The study explores the current of Mauritius, where tourism has always been seen as among its key pillars that sustain its economy and helped it to flourish.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve these research objectives, the black-letter research method was used, which comprised the legal analysis of provisions surrounding tourist taxes to collect secondary data. In addition, some 25 tourists were targeted to conduct a semi-structured interview, particularly those who have visited Mauritius and have stayed at least one night in the country.

Findings

The findings reveal that the positive effect of tourist taxes will only be experienced if tourists are willing to come to the destination country and pay the tax, the willingness of which in turn relies on several factors established by existing studies. These were identified as the readiness to pay, the existence of legislation, the perceived optimal tax amount and the perceived uses of tourist taxes.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, at present, this study is amongst the first academic writings on tourist taxes in the context of Mauritius, and it is being carried out with the aim of combining a large amount of empirical, theoretical and factual information that can be of use to various stakeholders and not only to academics.
Adoption and management of plural forms of governance in the transport of sugarcane in Brazil
Authors: Dornfeld Hugo Carlos , Mansano Adrislaine da Silva , Polloni-Silva Eduardo , Moralles Herick Fernando , Paulillo Luiz Fernando de Oriani e
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study investigates why different governance structures have been adopted to organize similar operations in sugarcane transport transactions, resulting in the plural forms of governance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a panel of 10 Brazilian mills, covering the 2009–2019 period and employing an econometric strategy grounded mainly on the count data and traditional panel-regression models, this study used the Transaction Cost Economics perspective to investigate how the frequency of transactions, uncertainty and asset specificity influence the decision to adopt the Plural Forms of governance. Moreover, we employed two distinct measures of these Plural Forms and included governance alterations over time.

Findings

The results suggest that Transaction Cost Economics is a valid theoretical background for studying the plural forms of governance and that the interviewed Brazilian mills seemed to use these plural forms in their strategic transport planning, thus generating lower transaction costs and reducing issues, such as market uncertainties and opportunistic risks. We also found that the plural forms are gradually maintained but are not being adopted as a transitory management solution because they are aligned with the characteristics of price, the quality of service, contractual clauses and fidelity in negotiations.

Originality/value

The plural forms of governance are strategies for efficiently managing transport, promoting the security of supply and financial benefits related to transaction costs and improving environmental sustainability. Analyzing the plural forms of governance with two different measures (absolute and entropy-related), this study contributes to the ever-growing debate on governance, which is particularly important for the sugar-energy sector.
The nexus between governance quality, modern slavery disclosure and corporate financial performance
Authors: Albitar Khaldoon , Hussainey Khaled , El-Masry Ahmed A. , Al Lawati Hidaya
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Modern slavery is a significant issue addressed in the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals. In 2015, the UK Government introduced the Modern Slavery Act as part of a crucial broader set of initiatives that aimed to attack modern slavery. Regardless of the initiatives taken to mitigate this risk, little is known about how modern slavery disclosure affects corporate financial performance (CFP). Hence, our study aims to examine the impact of MSD on CFP empirically. It also examines the moderating role of governance quality on the MSD–CFP nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

We use computer-based content analysis to assess MSD levels for a sample of non-financial companies' annual reports. We use regression analysis to test our research hypotheses for a sample period of 2013–2019 for Financial Times Stock Exchange (FTSE) All-Share non-financial UK firms. Our sample consisted of 786 observations.

Findings

We provide new empirical evidence that externally communicating modern slavery information in annual report narratives is associated with CFP. The finding is in line with stakeholder theory, which states that engaging in social responsibility practices and responding favourably to the stakeholders’ interests and desires would enhance corporations’ reputation and ultimately improve their performance. We further highlight the role of governance quality in this nexus and find that the interaction between governance quality and MSD is negative, suggesting a replacement effect.

Social implications

Our findings can be of interest to government, policymakers and other stakeholders. Policymakers need to establish a new, broader set of enforcement arrangements for MSD that may lead to better CFP.

Originality/value

Our research idea is original as it links emerging global issues (e.g. MSD) with traditional corporate concerns (financial performance) in a way that is likely to provide new insights as well as managerial and policy implications.
More than tools: “video lecture capture” as a step towards pedagogic differentiation
Authors: Veiga Amélia , Gomes A. Miguel , Remião Fernando
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The present study aims to analyse the presumed relationship between VLC use and students’ grades.

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy unfolds as a case study (Yin, 1994), framed by how undergraduate students of pharmaceutical sciences used video lecture capture (VLC) and the impact of VLC on pedagogic differentiation. Looking at the course of Mechanistic Toxicology (MecTox), the objective is to describe this case of pharmaceutical sciences in depth.

Findings

The findings reveal that over 90% of students engaged with VLC videos, with the average viewing time exceeding the total available video minutes, indicating strong student engagement. The study particularly highlights VLC’s positive impact on students with lower academic performance (grades D and E), suggesting that VLC can help reduce the performance gap and support a more inclusive educational environment.

Research limitations/implications

The findings may have limited generalisability beyond the specific context and sample used. However, this study allows the research findings to be compared with previous research (Remião et al., 2022), contributing to the debate on how pedagogic research can promote evidence-based decisions regarding innovative strategies. The meaning of educational inclusion processes and diversity is, thus, contingent on the institutionalisation of research as a practice of teaching and learning.

Practical implications

The results of this study thus provide interesting insights for the design of strategic action, considering the diversity of students as seen in parents’ academic qualifications and students’ conditions (e.g. student-workers, living away from home, holding a grant of economic and social support).

Social implications

The implications of research findings for society bring the issue of equity in education to the fore. By addressing the diverse needs of students, HEIs can contribute to greater educational equity.

Originality/value

Using VLC as a differentiated pedagogic device might give diversity “real” content insofar as institutional and national policies can mitigate the possible negative effects of parents’ low academic qualifications and the students’ conditions of living away from their residence area and holding a grant of economic and social support.
Sustainability–driven changes in the business incubation industry
Authors: Petrucci Francesco , Mutignani Francesco , Santos Jose Novais
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore how the business incubation industry (BII) is dealing with the emerging challenges posed by the on-going transition toward an environmentally sustainable economy, from a business network perspective. Despite scholars and policymakers agreeing to emphasize the crucial role of the BII as a support sector for sustainability-driven new business development, it still needs to be determined how incubation organizations are dealing with the emerging priorities of sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The study relies on a qualitative interpretivist approach based on the data collected from 17 in-depth interviews with key informants from the BII of Emilia Romagna region, Italy. An industrial marketing and purchasing (IMP) analytical approach has been adopted to explore sustainability-driven changes in Incubation network contexts and dynamics.

Findings

This study shows that BII is increasingly exposed to the emergence of sustainability as a driving force in the development of new ventures. Main finding concerns the classification of incubation organizations in two macro groups, namely, local scouts and trendy scouts, according to their business incubation strategy and their approach to sustainability.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the IMP literature on the topic of sustainability by providing a filtered view through the eyes of incubators that are aware of the opportunities and obstacles to the development of new sustainable business models, resources and processes. Furthermore, this study lays the groundwork for analyzing the incubator ecosystem from an industrial perspective, highlighting the network of relationships used to support start-ups in their development.
The evolution of accounting practices for UK commercial service charges: evaluating the impact of the RICS professional standard
Authors: Holt Andrew D. , Giordano Joseph A. , White Nigel
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to provide analysis on the state of UK commercial service charge accounting practices when the guiding regulatory framework changed to a mandatory professional standard.

Design/methodology/approach

From a critical review of the accounting requirements of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) Professional Standard, the paper develops metrics for measuring the quality of service charge accounts. These metrics are used to measure accounting quality within 154 accounting statements prepared during the first year of the Standard’s implementation.

Findings

The paper identifies conceptual weaknesses in the RICS Professional Standard and poor levels of compliance with many of its accounting requirements. The findings suggest that long-standing issues remain unsolved and also identify new areas of concern within present accounting practices for UK commercial service charges.

Research limitations/implications

The data were obtained from accounting documents prepared by 68 landlords and 40 managing agents for the commercial clients of one UK service charge consultancy company. Although the population is representative of industrywide practice, further longitudinal analysis is required to improve generalisability.

Practical implications

The paper provides performance metrics that stakeholders can use for benchmarking accounting quality. The RICS needs to act to improve accounting practice or risk government intervention. Some corporate landlords must provide higher quality service charge accounts or risk potentially losing occupiers to competing schemes.

Originality/value

This work provides a unique dataset that explores the role of the RICS Professional Standard in improving UK service charge accounting practices.
Experimental and numerical behaviour of hybrid R.C. columns under the effect of fire furnace
Authors: Sallal Ali Kadhim , Zareei Seyed Alireza , Al-Thairy Haitham A.B. , Salemi Niloofar
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to study the effect of high temperature on concrete columns which are considered the most important part of the concrete structure. Glass fibres were used to study the effect of heat on them as well as on the properties of reinforcing steel and concrete.

Design/methodology/approach

High tensile stress may develop at the tension zone of the column section when the column is exposed to an axial compressive load with a relatively high eccentricity. Since fibre bars have a higher tensile strength than steel bars, they can be used in the tension zone of hybrid reinforced concrete columns to resist tensile stress, while steel bars can be used in the compression zone to resist compressive stress. However, as documented in prior research studies and advised by standards and codes, the mechanical qualities of concrete, steel and fibre bars are considerably damaged when hybrid columns are exposed to high temperatures.

Findings

When the fire temperature rises, the ultimate load value of the reinforced concrete column decreases. Also, steel bar reinforcing is more efficient than glass fibre bars in resisting high temperatures. The rate decrease in the strength of reinforced concrete columns to applied load on it decreases with the rise of the temperature to which the specimen was exposed during the burning period.

Originality/value

The experimental and numerical work includes a study of the effect of a fire furnace on the behaviour of hybrid R.C. columns. Three types of reinforcement were used steel bars only, G.F.R.P bars only and hybrid (steel and G.F.R.P) bars. These columns specimens were cast and divided into three groups according to the details of reinforcement, the effect of fire temperature and according to the eccentricity ratio. Two types of hybrid are used in this work. Fourteen R.C. columns were casted and divided into, 4 specimens not burn and 10 specimens burn at temperatures 300, 500 and 700.
Performance comparison of cloud virtual machines
Authors: Zboril Martin , Svatá Vlasta
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The performance of virtual machines (VMs) has an important role in the overall effectiveness of deployed IT solutions. Many organizations leverage VMs which run in a cloud environment instead of traditional on-premises machines. It is therefore important to select the most suitable cloud provider according to the performance of the VM. This study aims to compare the performance of VMs running under Microsoft, Amazon and Google, the three largest available cloud service providers who offer Infrastructure-as-a-Service.

Design/methodology/approach

Linux Ubuntu 20.04 LTS distribution was deployed as the reference operating system and comparisons were accomplished with the Phoronix Test Suite, which offers hundreds of benchmarking tests. For the aims of the study, 13 relevant tests covering the major areas of VMs were selected.

Findings

The study’s analysis revealed that the VM running at Amazon Web Services (AWS) exceeded the performance of machines at Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud Platform (GCP). The study’s comparison showed that the AWS platform achieved a final score 87% and Microsoft Azure and GCP both achieved 77%.

Originality/value

The performance of the VM is a factor that organizations might consider when they select a suitable cloud provider. This study provides an insight into high-performance cloud VMs and the methods of comparing their performance. The study delivers a significant contribution in comparing the performance of publicly accessible cloud VMs since no studies to date have been published on this topic.
Embracing AI in libraries: a strategic approach for India’s evolving library landscape
Authors: Malakar Prafull , Manavalan Leeladharan , Jain Palak , M.S. Sarin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The information science community, including library science, has been a focus of significant discussions and research due to recent progress in artificial intelligence (AI), especially in large language models. This study identifies possible areas for application of AI in library routines and how it can enhance library operations, such as circulation, acquisitions, reference services, serials, digital resources and technical services.

Design/methodology/approach

This research methodically examines how libraries adjust to swift technological changes, with an emphasis on AI, generative language models like GPT, and the integration of Chatbots.

Findings

This study outlines strategies to increase library engagement amidst a technologically evolving landscape, highlighting the significance of aligning such innovations with the requirements of users and library missions. The findings offer crucial considerations for libraries in India contemplating AI integration, especially in relation to technological infrastructure, librarian expertise in AI and the establishment of leadership roles to oversee AI initiatives.

Social implications

This research provides a foundation for library boards and associations to shape informed policies supporting AI in academic libraries. As such, it plays a vital role in advancing the adoption of AI within the global library community.

Originality/value

The library and information science (LIS) field is increasingly drawing interest from researchers and experts regarding the use of AI. This study covers the incorporation of AI in different library sections and positively impacts the LIS professionals in these advanced endeavours.
Diffusion of innovations: still a relevant theory for studying library technology in the age of AI?
Authors: Lund Brady
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the relevance of Rogers’ diffusion of innovations theory, with a particular focus on the adopter categories concept, for library technology research in light of rapid changes sparked by the emergence of generative artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies at the dawn of the fourth industrial revolution.

Design/methodology/approach

The applicability of the diffusion of innovation model is critically evaluated, highlighting some discrepancies that exist between the traditional framework and observed behaviors in recent studies. In particular, it appears that many people are more eager adopters of innovations than at any point in the past, perhaps due to the ubiquity of information within the modern media ecosystem.

Findings

The traditional diffusion of innovation adopter categories may fail to capture the adoption patterns of specific populations, such as college students and faculty. Revised survey methodologies reveal the potential for more accurate identification of adopter categories by addressing biases in self-reporting and incorporating practical considerations of innovation usefulness.

Originality/value

This paper proposes refinements to the study of innovation diffusion, particularly in the context of library technology. By adapting the model to better align with modern patterns of technological adoption, it aims to provide a deeper understanding of innovation behaviors in today’s rapidly evolving technological environment.
The post-Covid era: digital leadership, organizational performance and employee motivation
Authors: Palmucci Dario Natale , Giovando Guido , Vincurova Zuzana
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This qualitative study aims to identify key intervention areas for today’s leaders and the leadership skills necessary to enhance employee motivation in this digitized, post-COVID era.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive qualitative approach with a semi-structured interview-based design has been adopted, inspired by previous studies that aimed to explore and shed light on the object of this study.

Findings

First, findings refer to actual main areas of intervention and challenges for leaders to drive organizations in the new post-Covid digitalized era. Second, the study also identifies new skills needed to lead businesses and drive employees’ motivation. Third, this work proposes a framework to explain the leadership role in the actual complex reality.

Originality/value

Despite the extensive body of research on leadership, current theories fall short in the complex, post-COVID environment marked by instability, constant change and pervasive technology. Thus this research strives to develop an integrated framework to better elucidate the challenges and skills essential for leading businesses in today’s complex reality, with a comprehensive perspective.
Evaluating the effectiveness of green bonds and clean cryptocurrencies as hedging tools in volatile financial environments
Authors: Mnif Emna , Zghidi Nahed , Jarboui Anis
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Cryptocurrencies have transformed the financial landscape and raised environmental concerns, particularly distinguishing between energy-intensive (dirty) cryptocurrencies and environmentally friendly (green) cryptocurrencies. This study investigates the role of energy-intensive and ecologically friendly cryptocurrencies in sustainable investments, exploring their potential as hedging tools amid market and geopolitical stresses.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a time-varying parameter vector auto-regression (TVP-VAR) connectedness approach, the research analyzes the interactions and spillover effects among clean and dirty cryptocurrencies, green bonds, and traditional financial assets. It also explores portfolio diversification strategies like minimum variance, correlation and connectedness portfolios, evaluating their risk minimization efficacy while incorporating green financial instruments. Empirical data on daily closing prices and financial indices are used to assess financial interconnectedness and evaluate portfolio diversification strategies.

Findings

Green bonds consistently provide strong hedging capabilities, while clean cryptocurrencies exhibit a more nuanced role influenced by market maturity and regulations. The results underscore the significance of promoting green finance to bolster investments in sustainable projects and enhance risk management strategies for investors. This research enriches the green finance literature by detailing the financial interconnectedness within the market and providing strategic insights for embedding sustainability in investment portfolios against a backdrop of global economic and geopolitical uncertainties.

Research limitations/implications

The research highlights the importance of green finance in promoting sustainability and reducing environmental impact. It advocates for regulatory frameworks that support sustainable financial instruments, encouraging the development of financial products aligned with environmental goals and fostering a more sustainable economy.

Practical implications

These research findings provide actionable guidance for investors and policymakers to develop diversified investment strategies incorporating green bonds and clean cryptocurrencies capable of balancing risks and returns. The study also urges policymakers to establish clear guidelines and incentives for green investments, improving transparency and effectiveness in green finance markets.

Originality/value

This study uses an innovative TVP-VAR connectedness approach to examine the interactions and spillover effects among clean and dirty cryptocurrencies, green bonds and traditional financial assets. It provides new insights into the roles of green bonds and clean cryptocurrencies as hedging tools in volatile markets, enhancing the understanding of financial interconnectedness and sustainable investment strategies.
Beyond practicing: understanding the influence of ESG perceptions on employee retention
Authors: Alves Izabelli Rocha , Mesquita Eduardo , Caneppele Nairana Radtke , Martins Fellipe Silva
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how perceived environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors influence employee retention, with a focus on the mediating roles of pride and satisfaction and the moderating role of employees’ pro-environmental behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Set in Brazil, an emerging market with complex socioeconomic and environmental challenges, this study used survey data from 237 employees. And structural equation modeling was used to analyze the relationships among ESG perceptions, satisfaction, pride and retention.

Findings

The results highlight that ESG perceptions significantly enhance employee retention through increased satisfaction and pride. In addition, employees’ pro-environmental behaviors strengthen the positive relationship between ESG perceptions and retention.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into the intersection of ESG factors and employee behaviors in shaping retention strategies, offering implications for both scholars and practitioners, especially in emerging market contexts like Brazil.
Factors affecting investments in environmental assets by agricultural machinery cooperatives (CUMAs): Evidence from France
Authors: Diakité Daniel , Tamini Lota D. , Cornée Simon , Caillault Sébastien , Rousselière Damien
Published: January 2025

Although cooperatives are major actors in the transformation of agricultural systems, very little attention has been paid to the conditions that facilitate or hinder their involvement in the sustainable transition. Drawing on theoretical and empirical approaches, we analyze the effect of social capital on the propensity and proportion of investment in environmental assets in the case of agricultural machinery cooperatives (CUMAs) in France. The number of producers within their CUMA is used as a proxy of the bonding social capital and the CUMA's relationships with external organizations as a proxy of the bridging social capital. Our results show a nonmonotonic relationship between the proxies of social capital and investment in environmental assets by CUMAs. However, the effect differs depending on the subdimension of social capital considered. Interestingly, our results show that the effect of social capital within CUMAs remains even when the cooperatives carry out investment renewals that involve less risk for members.
Sulfur dioxide (SO2) donors, a new gasotransmitter, improve erectile dysfunction after castration in a rat model
Authors: Tetik‐Rama Seyma , Yilmaz‐Oral Didem , Turkcan Damla , Oztekin Cetin Volkan , Kirlangic Omer Faruk , Kirlangic Fatma Zeynep , Gur Serap
Published: January 2025

Background

Androgen deprivation is associated with erectile dysfunction (ED). In different animal models, sulfur dioxide (SO2) donors Na2SO3 and NaHSO3 reduced oxidative stress, fibrosis, and inflammation which contribute to the pathogenesis of androgen deprivation‐induced ED, however the effect of SO2 donors on ED in castrated rats were not known.

Objective

To investigate the therapeutic effect of SO2 donors, Na2SO3/NaHSO3, on ED in castrated rat model.

Materials and methods

Sprague–Dawley male rats (n = 30) were divided into four groups; control, control‐treated with Na2SO3/NaHSO3, castrated, and castrated‐treated with Na2SO3/NaHSO3. Castration was induced by bilateral scrotal incisions. Four weeks after castration, rats were treated with Na2SO3/NaHSO3 (0.54/0.18 mmol/kg) intraperitoneally (i.p.) for 4 weeks. Intracavernosal pressure/mean arterial pressure ratio (ICP/MAP) and total ICP were measured to evaluate in vivo erectile responses in cavernosal tissue. In vitro relaxant and contractile responses were measured in all groups. Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS), neuronal NOS (nNOS), PI3 kinase p85 alpha + gamma (PI3K), protein kinase B (AKT 1/2/3), cysteine dioxygenase‐1 (CDO), and aspartate aminotransferase (AAT) expressions and localizations were evaluated by Western blotting and immunohistochemical staining. The smooth muscle/collagen ratio was evaluated by Masson's trichrome staining.

Results

Prostate (p < 0.001) and penis weight (p < 0.001), total serum testosterone (T) level (p < 0.001), and in vivo erectile responses (p < 0.001 at 7.5 and 5 V, p < 0.05 at 2.5 V for ICP/MAP and total ICP) of castrated rats were decreased compared with control. SO2 donors improved reduced ICP/MAP ratio and total ICP (p < 0.01 at 7.5, 5, and 2.5 V for ICP/MAP and total ICP) nitrergic (p < 0.05 at 20 Hz), and endothelium‐independent relaxation (p < 0.05 at 1 nM, p < 0.01 at 10 µM and 100 µM) in the castrated group. Decreased eNOS (p < 0.01) and AKT (p < 0.001) protein expressions in the castrated group were normalized by SO2. SO2 donors partially restored the reduced smooth muscle/collagen ratio in the castrated group (p < 0.001). The expressions and locations of nNOS, PI3K, CDO, and AAT proteins in penile tissue did not alter among all groups (p > 0.05).

Discussion and conclusion

SO2 donors significantly improve erectile functions and relaxation responses in a castrated rats via ameliorating endothelial damage and fibrosis. Androgen deprivation inhibits the AKT/eNOS signaling while SO2 activates this pathway. SO2 donors may be promising for the treatment of ED in hypoandrogenic men.
Safety and efficacy of endovascular embolization combined with external drainage for poor‐grade ruptured cerebral aneurysms
Authors: Chen Shi‐Dun , Yang Cheng‐Bao , Wang Yong‐Xiang , Yin Yue‐Han , Gao Bulang , Chen Chun‐Guang
Published: January 2025

Purpose

To investigate the safety and efficacy of endovascular embolization combined with external drainage for poor‐grade ruptured cerebral aneurysms and risk factors.

Materials and methods

Forty‐six patients with poor‐grade ruptured cerebral aneurysms treated with endovascular embolization combined with decompressive craniectomy and drainage were retrospectively enrolled.

Results

Coil embolization alone was performed in 29 (63.0%) patients, stent‐assisted coiling in 14 (30.4%), and coiling with the assistance of two microcatheters in three (6.5%). Immediately after embolization, aneurysm occlusion degree was Raymond‐Roy grade I in 88% (44/50), II in 8% (4/50), and III in 4% (2/50). Periprocedural complications occurred in four (8.7%) patients. Forty‐two (91.3%) patients had lumbar cistern drainage (n = 29 or 63.0%), extraventricular drainage (n = 11 or 23.9%), or decompressive craniectomy (n = 2 or 4.3%). At discharge, six (13.0%) patients died, and hydrocephalus took place in 16 (34.8%) patients. Better outcomes (mRS 0–2) were achieved in 31 (67.4%), including 23 (50.0%) patients below 60 years and eight (17.4%) over 60 years. Better clinical outcomes were achieved in patients below 60 years and with lumbar cistern drainage, and age was the only significant independent risk factor for better clinical outcomes. Receiver characteristics curve analysis of age for better clinical outcomes revealed that the cutoff value was 61 years, with the AUC 0.73, sensitivity 0.69, and specificity 0.73.

Conclusion

Endovascular embolization combined with decompressive craniectomy and drainage may be safe and efficient for poor‐grade ruptured cerebral aneurysms, and older age and drainage modality may significantly affect the clinical outcomes.
Nichtinvasive Infrarot‐Thermografie für Screening, Diagnose und Monitoring von Hautkrebs
Authors: Kesztyüs Dorothea , Bae Horim , Wilson Carolyn , Schön Michael P. , Kesztyüs Tibor
Published: January 2025

Die Inzidenzen für Hautkrebs steigen kontinuierlich. Der Zeitpunkt der Diagnose ist entscheidend für das Morbiditäts‐ und Mortalitätsrisiko der Patienten. Ein optimales Screening‐Verfahren muss noch etabliert werden. Berührungslose bildgebende Verfahren sind von höchstem Interesse, jedoch für den großflächigen Einsatz noch nicht ausreichend entwickelt und untersucht. Infrarot‐Thermografie bietet gegenüber digitaler Fotografie die zusätzliche Information der Wärmeabstrahlung der Hautoberfläche, diese korreliert stark mit malignen Veränderungen. Literatur zum aktuellen wissenschaftlichen Stand von Screening, Diagnose und Monitoring von Hautkrebs mittels thermografischer Verfahren wurde in PubMed, Embase und Google Scholar identifiziert. Vom technischen und informationstechnologischen Standpunkt gesehen bietet Infrarot‐Thermografie sehr gute Voraussetzungen für den Einsatz als nichtinvasives, kostengünstiges, zeitsparendes und einfach zu handhabendes Screening‐Instrument. Allerdings fehlt noch belastbare Evidenz und die praktische Umsetzung in massentaugliche 3D‐Systeme. Die dahingehende Forschung sollte intensiviert werden, um anwendbare Systeme zu entwickeln, im großen Stil zu testen und zu etablieren.
Identification of an exosite at the neutrophil elastase/alpha‐1‐antitrypsin interface
Authors: Gangemi Roberto , Bignotti Mattia , Denardo Andrea , Pearce Claudia N. , Ronzoni Riccardo , Lomas David A. , Irving James A. , Fra Annamaria , Gangemi Fabrizio
Published: January 2025

Neutrophil elastase (NE) is released by activated neutrophils during an inflammatory response and exerts proteolytic activity on elastin and other extracellular matrix components. This protease is rapidly inhibited by the plasma serine protease inhibitor alpha‐1‐antitrypsin (AAT), and the importance of this protective activity on lung tissue is highlighted by the development of early onset emphysema in individuals with AAT deficiency. As a serpin, AAT presents a surface‐exposed reactive centre loop (RCL) whose sequence mirrors the target protease specificity. Following binding of NE in a ‘Michaelis’ encounter complex, cleavage of the RCL results in an irreversible complex between the two molecules. Here, the structure of the AAT‐NE encounter complex was studied by molecular dynamics, mutagenesis and enzyme kinetics. Exploration of the geometry of interaction between the two molecules revealed the possibility that the interaction interface extends beyond the RCL; a persistent feature of the simulations was the interaction between a region located upstream of β‐strand 4C of AAT, comprising three acidic residues (Asp202, Glu199 and Glu204), and Arg147 of NE. Mutation of the acidic residues to either alanine or serine, or a D202R substitution, resulted in a reduced rate of association between recombinant AAT and NE. Addition of salt to the buffer had little effect for these mutants but substantially reduced the rate of interaction of the wild‐type protein. These data are consistent with a role for this acidic region on AAT as an exosite that contributes to an optimal interaction with its physiological protease target.