bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An investigation into the major barriers to the adoption of electric vehicles in last-mile deliveries for sustainable transport
Authors: Dadashzada Imamali , Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Roy Ghatak Ranjit , Gonzalez-Aleu Fernando
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Although electric vehicles (EVs) offer promising solutions for reducing transport emissions, several obstacles hinder their adoption, and supply chain (SC) stakeholders must systematically identify and address these challenges. Prior research has explored barriers to EV adoption but lacks a global focus on last-mile delivery (LMD). Our study aims to fill this gap, providing a foundation for future research and aiding organizational shifts towards sustainable transportation.

Design/methodology/approach

Our study identifies 21 critical barriers to EV deployment in LMDs, validated through a quantitative survey involving 157 SC experts. The survey data are analysed using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA), which identifies four distinct dimensions encapsulating the identified barriers. Based on consultations with five experts, the Analytical Hierarchy Process (AHP) ranks these dimensions and individual impediments globally.

Findings

The study finds “Energy and Infrastructure Barriers” and “Financial and Resource Barriers” to be the most significant hindrances. Noteworthy individual barriers include the absence of fast-charging stations, insufficient electricity provision and the need for investment in Power Grid upgrades.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the existing literature by offering a robust methodology for classifying and ranking EV adoption barriers through EFA and AHP. It thus provides a globally applicable framework for stakeholders to devise targeted strategies for overcoming these barriers.
Shaping pro-environmental behaviors through eco-diaries and research-based projects: an experimental study of business students at Yangzhou University
Authors: Qin Ying , Qin Chengbin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the effects of two types of teaching approaches, namely, project-based learning and place-based learning, on the development of pro-environmental behaviors among university students.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a pre-test–post-test experimental design to evaluate the efficacy of project- and placed-based learning in promoting pro-environmental behaviors among university students. Participants were randomly allocated to either the project-based learning cohort (consisting of 50 participants) or the place-based learning cohort (also consisting of 50 participants). The pre-test assessments evaluated the initial pro-environmental behaviors of the participants. Then, interventions were conducted with the help of instructors. The project-based learning intervention necessitated participants to collectively take part in real-life problem-solving endeavors about environmental matters. On the other hand, the place-based learning intervention prompted participants to record and contemplate their interactions with the surrounding environment. Both interventions sought to augment participants’ understanding, beliefs and actions related to the environment. After the interventions, post-test assessments were carried out to assess any alterations in participants’ pro-environmental behaviors. Mean analysis and paired sample t-test were performed to examine the differences among the pre-test and post-test for both project- and place-based learning.

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that the participants have exhibited improved pro-environmental behaviors, including environmental activism, non-activist behaviors and private sphere green behaviors.

Originality/value

This research is original in its analysis of project- and place-based learning approaches for fostering pro-environmental behaviors. By using a pre-test–post-test experimental design, this study provides empirical evidence on the effectiveness of these active learning strategies in shaping environmental attitudes and actions.
Exploring and narrating futures in undergraduate climate change education: an innovative teaching approach
Authors: Liu Shu-Chiu
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to focus on an innovative undergraduate teaching intervention designed to guide students in exploring and narrating the potential futures of climate change. The intervention aimed to reduce the psychological distance associated with climate change by systematically investigating futures in real-world contexts. The study had two objectives: to examine students’ learning outcomes by analysing their visions of a carbon-neutral future towards the end of the intervention and to measure the intervention’s impact on students’ understanding of climate change and their perceived ability to contribute effectively.

Design/methodology/approach

The intervention was implemented over two consecutive semesters. Data for analysis included student narratives from the final assignment (N = 140), where they envisioned life in a carbon-neutral city, and pre-/post-instruction surveys (N = 37) assessing content knowledge and action competence.

Findings

Content analysis of student narratives revealed 12 distinct themes, encompassing infrastructural and technological advancements, lifestyle adaptations and shifts in societal attitudes towards sustainability. Statistical analysis of the survey data demonstrated significant improvements in both variables. These findings suggest that the teaching intervention effectively enhanced students’ scientific understanding of climate change, increased their self-perceived ability to take action and fostered a realistic sense of life in a sustainable future.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel teaching intervention exploring and narrating climate change futures. Analysing personal narratives provides fresh insights into how young individuals envision sustainable living within the context of climate change, thereby contributing a unique perspective to climate change education and future studies.
Evaluating India’s FDI as a nonparticipant in the Belt and Road Initiative: synthetic control method analysis
Authors: Elish Eman , Ahmed Hossameldin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) was launched in 2013 and implemented the following year, marking 11 years since its inception. During this time, numerous research papers have been published that analyse the initiative’s objectives, targets and potential outcomes. This study aims to assess India’s resilience in joining the BRI by examining its net foreign direct investment (FDI) compared to a counterfactual scenario involving participation in the initiative.

Design/methodology/approach

The synthetic control method (SCM) will be used using a panel of 27 countries from 1990 to 2021.

Findings

The findings reveal that India’s FDI trajectory has decreased compared to that of synthetic India constructed from BRI member countries.

Research limitations/implications

This research outcome can assist India and other nations that are contemplating joining the BRI to systematically evaluate the potential political and economic risks and benefits associated with the initiative. This evaluation can guide individual decision-making processes regarding the BRI on a case-by-case basis and with other outcomes that are deemed viable to each country.

Originality/value

This research is distinct from other studies because it uses a novel SCM analysis, which is a quasi-experimental technique that assesses actual outcomes rather than predicting them, as in conventional regression models. In addition, previous research has primarily focused on the political aspects of the initiative; however this study focuses on the economic aspect of the BRI by evaluating its impact on FDI.
The impact of sustainability assurance levels on market capitalization: the case of French firms
Authors: Klibi Emna , Damak Salma , Elwafi Oumayma
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine whether the financial market rewards the sustainable companies by investigating the impact of sustainability assurance levels on market capitalization of the CAC 40 firms. This analysis is complemented by examining the role of company characteristics to investors, providing a clearer picture of the functioning of the capital market.

Design/methodology/approach

To analyze the effect of sustainability assurance levels on market capitalization for the period 2011–2021, this study used a simplified version of the linear information model which is based on Ohlson model (1995) and Crouse (2007). This model is a multiple linear regression model which will be applied to panel data.

Findings

The study found that sustainability assurance levels negatively impact market capitalization. Higher investment decisions occur when sustainability reports have limited assurance, likely due to resource waste and costs exceeding income. In addition, net income, corporate social responsibility (CSR) indexes, leverage and performance significantly influence market capitalization.

Practical implications

This study offers valuable insights for both companies and investors, providing guidance on making investment decisions based on varying levels of sustainability assurance.

Originality/value

The current study sheds light on a relatively unexplored area regarding the connection between sustainability assurance and market reaction. Hence, this research focuses on a novel aspect of sustainability assurance by investigating how firm visibility in terms of sustainability practices impacts market capitalization.
Cold start and hot feedback: a knowledge sharing and governance model considering individual willingness from a prospect theory perspective
Authors: Zou Ji , Li Mengya , Yang Delin
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the issue of perfunctory sharing that arises in knowledge governance due to a lack of willingness to share knowledge between individuals within the same organization. This knowledge-sharing process does not occur simultaneously for both parties but follows a sequential progression. Additionally, this governance model fully considers the willingness of both parties to share and effectively addresses the two knowledge characteristics that influence their willingness to do so.

Design/methodology/approach

This study follows inductive logic and primarily adopts an interpretive case study approach to conduct a longitudinal exploratory case study. An incubator enterprise with active knowledge-sharing activities and significant knowledge governance effects is selected as the research subject. The governance system is explained through the lens of prospect theory at the mechanism level.

Findings

In the study of the knowledge-sharing process, the authors observed a new challenge: perfunctory behavior, whereby individuals engage in knowledge-sharing activities that lack substantial effects as a way to avoid genuine sharing. From this, a new knowledge-sharing model was extracted, the cold start and hot feedback model, which follows a sequential (rather than simultaneous) progression. Using the deterministic effect of prospect theory and the principle of reference dependence, the governance mechanism of corporate knowledge sharing was analyzed from the perspective of knowledge-sharing willingness.

Research limitations/implications

Based on prospect theory, this study primarily explains how the governance mechanism influences the willingness to share knowledge from the perspective of four principles. In the future, threat rigidity theory and commitment escalation theory can be combined to further analyze the willingness to share knowledge from the perspectives of pressure and cost. Empirical research methods can also be used to test and enrich the research results of this paper.

Originality/value

After considering the willingness to share knowledge, a new knowledge-sharing model and corresponding knowledge-sharing governance model are proposed, and prospect theory is extended to the knowledge-based theory research field.
Unraveling the causal impact of adverse childhood experiences on social well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Bai Zefeng , Shang Xiaodong , Zhang Hengwei
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) have far-reaching consequences on an individual’s physical, mental and social well-being. As the world grappled with the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, understanding the impact of ACEs on social well-being became more crucial than ever. This study aims to investigate the causal effect of ACEs on perceived social well-being during the pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

An instrumental variable design was carried out on data extracted from the Panel Study of Income dynamic (PSID).

Findings

This study found a significant causal link between higher levels of ACEs and diminished social well-being, after controlling COVID-19 exposure and symptom severity. Surprisingly, the findings suggest that COVID-19 exposure and symptom severity had no significant impact on social well-being during the pandemic.

Originality/value

These results underscore the enduring influence of childhood adversity on an individual’s ability to form and maintain healthy social connections, highlighting the need for targeted interventions and support systems that promote resilience and social well-being among individuals with a history of ACEs. As we navigate the postpandemic era, this study emphasizes the importance of addressing the long-lasting effects of childhood trauma to foster a more resilient and supportive society.
Contexts and complexities: a realist evaluation of integrated care system leadership
Authors: Knight Lisa , Neiva Ganga Rafaela , Tucker Matthew , Shore Adam P. , Nolan Steve
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper presents a realist evaluation of leadership within an integrated care system (ICS) in England. This paper aims to examine which aspects of leadership are effective, for whom, how and under what circumstances.

Design/methodology/approach

Realist evaluation methodology was used, adopting prior realist review findings as the theoretical framework to refine explanations of how and why leadership within an ICS is effective. Between January and November 2023, 23 interviews with ICS leaders took place, alongside 7 meeting observations and documentary analysis. The Realist And Metanarrative Evidence Syntheses: Evolving Standards (RAMESES) guidance informed the study design, conduct and reporting.

Findings

The findings highlight two overarching infrastructural contexts influencing leadership in ICSs: the impact of the post-COVID-19 pandemic legacy and the differences between health and social care regulatory and financial environments. Findings demonstrate that ICS leaders identified a strong sense of purpose as crucial for guiding decisions and creating a psychologically safe environment for open, honest discussions, fostering calculated risk-taking. Whilst a shared vision directed priority setting, financial pressures led to siloed thinking. Leadership visibility was linked to workforce morale, with supportive leadership boosting morale amidst evolving ICS landscapes and confidence in data-driven decisions supported prevention activities. However, financial constraints hindered responsiveness and innovation in addressing health inequalities.

Originality/value

By examining ICS leadership post-COVID-19 pandemic and amidst varying regulatory and financial environments, this study contributes to the emerging literature on systems leadership and offers practical guidance for leaders navigating the complexities of integrated care.
Association between dietary diversity and lipid indices among Indian Kho-Kho players
Authors: Kalpana Kommi , Khanna Gulshan Lal
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Dietary diversity (DD) is a proxy indicator of nutrient adequacy and has been propagated as a health beneficial component of dietary behavior. This study aims to understand DD and its association with lipid indices among Indian Kho-Kho players.

Design/methodology/approach

In all, 50 Indian Kho-Kho players aged between 16 years and 31 years belonging to different regions of India were recruited. Dietary diversity score (DDS; food groups/day) and food variety score (FVS; number of food items/day) were considered to assess the DD. The United Nations Food and Agricultural Organization food frequency questionnaire was used as a tool. Serum total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), LDL, VLDL and HDL were measured.

Findings

The DDS and FVS showed that athletes were consuming approximately 7 of 9 food groups (Mean ± SD: 6.5 ± 1.3) and 27 varieties of foods (Mean ± SD:27.0 ± 8.6) from 9 food groups per day. This study could not find significant differences for DDS and FVS among athletes belonging to different regions. FVSs of organ meat, eggs and spices and condiments were significantly positively associated with TG (p < 0.036, p < 0.020 and p < 0.001) and VLDL (p < 0.054, p < 0.021 and p < 0.001). LDL was inversely significantly associated with FVS of cereals, white root and tubers (p < 0.032).

Research limitations/implications

DDS and FVS were not associated with lipid indices among Kho-Kho players. However, individual FVS of organ meat, eggs and spices and condiments may increase TG and VLDL. Optimum consumption of cereals and root tubers may help to maintain LDL levels among Kho-Kho players.

Originality/value

It was found that daily consumption of organ meat and eggs may increase TG and VLDL, and optimum consumption of cereals and white roots and tubers may help to maintain LDL. High energy and fat foods may act as mediators along with spices and condiments in increasing TG and VLDL.
An innovative technical support system for sustainable construction indicators in Zimbabwe
Authors: Moyo Tirivavi , Omer Mazen , Chigara Benviolent , Edwards David J.
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Achieving sustainable construction is immensely challenging in developing economies due to their inadequate technical support system(s) (TSS). Hence, this article develops a TSS framework for sustainable construction indicators for Zimbabwe, a developing country.

Design/methodology/approach

A post-positivist philosophical stance and deductive reasoning were adopted to test pertinent theory. Construction professionals in consultancy, construction companies, government bodies and academic institutions participated in an online questionnaire survey. Primary data was analysed using a reliability test, Shapiro Wilks test, Kruskal–Wallis H test, mean score ranking, normalisation value, factor analysis and fuzzy synthetic evaluation (FSE).

Findings

FSE revealed a framework with six critical technical support subgroups, in order of importance viz: innovation for construction sustainability; adequate sustainability expenditure and skills training support; adequate project economic assessment and governance support; adequate circularity and environmental technical support; climate change literacy and supplier assessment support; and adequate decent work support. Existing sustainable construction initiatives can be buttressed by strengthening the six identified TSS through related policy initiatives.

Originality/value

The framework developed constitutes an innovative TSS for Zimbabwe to achieve sustainable construction.
Wildflower plantings and honeybee competition impact nutritional quality of wild bee diets
Authors: Page Maureen L. , Francis Jacob S. , Müller Uta , Williams Neal M.
Published: November 2024

Wildflower habitats planted along field borders are a widely promoted strategy for supporting bees in agricultural landscapes. However, honeybees (Apis mellifera), which are often stocked at high densities in crop lands can compete with wild bees for pollen and nectar, potentially limiting the successfulness of wildflower plantings in supporting diverse bee communities.

Using weekly samples of five study sites in Northern California we assessed how plants in pollinator‐friendly seed mixes varied in their ability to provide bees with abundant and nutritious pollen under intense honeybee competition.

We quantified pollen production, protein and lipid content, and end‐of‐day pollen availability for different plant species. We also sampled bee visits to flowers and assessed the composition of pollen on bee bodies. Using these data, we investigate how the nutritional quality of pollen in wildflower plantings and honeybee abundance impacted native bee pollen nutrition.

Bees collected more nutritious pollen (i.e. pollen with more protein) from plantings with more nutritious plant species (i.e. sites with more high‐protein plants). However, as honeybee abundance increased, the nutritional quality of native bee diets declined. We also detected important interactions between honeybee abundance and the nutritional quality of flowers in plantings, such that, for some bee taxa, there was no impact of competition on pollen diet quality in high‐nutrition plantings.

Synthesis and applications: Our study reveals that honeybee competition can reduce the nutritional quality of native bee diets. From an applied conservation perspective, we therefore recommend that honeybee introductions in natural areas be approached with extreme caution. However, our results also suggest that high‐protein flower plantings could mitigate negative effects of honeybee competition in managed landscapes. Where simultaneous support of managed and wild bees is a key management objective, we recommend including high‐protein plant species in plant mixes to support diverse bee populations.
Outcome Reporting in Studies Investigating Treatment for Caesarean Scar Ectopic Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nijjar Simrit , Sandhar Simarjit , Timor‐Tritsch Ilan E. , Agten Andrea Kaelin , Li Jin , Chong Krystle Y. , Oza Munira , Acklom Rosanna , D'Antonio Francesco , Vuong Lan N. , Mol Ben , Bottomley Cecilia , Jurkovic Davor ,   the International Collaboration COSCAR
Published: November 2024

Background

Caesarean scar ectopic pregnancy (CSEP) is associated with significant maternal and foetal morbidity. However, the optimal treatment remains unknown.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to review outcomes reported in studies on CSEP treatment and outcome reporting quality.

Search Strategy

We reviewed 1270 articles identified through searching PubMed, MEDLINE and Google Scholar from 2014 to 2024 using the search terms ‘caesarean scar ectopic pregnancy and caesarean scar pregnancy’.

Selection Criteria

We included all study types evaluating any form of CSEP treatment, with a sample size of ≥ 50, where diagnosis was described, and the article was in English.

Data Collection and Analysis

Two authors independently reviewed studies and assessed outcome reporting and methodological quality. The relationship between outcome reporting quality and publication year and journal type was assessed with univariate and bivariate models.

Main Results

A total of 108 studies, including 17 941 women, were included. 83% of all studies originated from China. Studies reported on 326 outcomes; blood loss (86%), need for additional intervention (77%) and time for serum hCG to normalise post treatment (69%) were the most common outcomes. A primary outcome was clearly defined in 11 (10%) studies. The median quality of outcome reporting was 3 (IQR 3–4). No relationship was demonstrated between outcome reporting quality and publication year (p = 0.116) or journal type (p = 0.503).

Conclusions

This review demonstrates that there is a wide variation in outcomes reported in studies on CSEP treatment. Development and implementation of a core outcome set by international stakeholders which includes patients is urgently needed to enable high‐quality research that is both useful and relevant to patients.
Mercy killing of a 72‐year‐old woman through heroin intoxication
Authors: Zwirner Johann , Iwersen‐Bergmann Stefanie , Püschel Klaus , Ondruschka Benjamin
Published: November 2024

Active euthanasia is legally permissible in only eight jurisdictions worldwide and may only be administered by qualified personnel following specific selection criteria. Mercy killing refers to the deliberate termination of the life of an individual suffering from a terminal chronic medical condition. Detecting both illegally performed active euthanasia and instances of mercy killing presents challenges for forensic pathologists. The presented case describes a mercy killing involving a 72‐year‐old woman with multiple chronic conditions who was killed by her grandson via heroin intoxication after administration of the anxiolytic alprazolam. Key findings from the external postmortem examination included a single fresh injection site on the inside of the elbow and a superficial T‐shaped cut on the flexor side of the left forearm. Toxicological analyses revealed elevated blood levels of heroin metabolites, including 6‐monoacetylmorphine and absence of hydroxyalprazolam, indicating an only short survival time following heroin injection. A cocaine concentration in blood was comparatively low but rather high in hair samples. Elderly individuals with multiple chronic conditions are at increased risk of becoming homicide victims. Comprehensive forensic documentation of injection sites is essential to avoid overlooking deaths caused by injection and to differentiate them from medical measures during resuscitation attempts.
The use of dietary isotopes as a preliminary step in the death investigation of unidentified skeletal human remains in British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Tarrant Damon , Yazedjian Laura , Hepburn Joe , Fonseca Stephen , Talamo Sahra , Richards Michael
Published: November 2024

In British Columbia, Canada, unidentified skeletal human remains are often recovered by law enforcement or civilians and there is a question if they are modern and of medicolegal significance, or historical or archaeological. We used relatively fast and inexpensive carbon and nitrogen stable isotope analysis of human bone collagen from a selection of these remains (n = 48) combined with a logistic regression model to classify remains as modern, historical, or archaeological. We then confirmed our temporal classification through directly radiocarbon dating each individual and found that we could predict the temporal group with 93% accuracy. In regions where archaeological remains have dietary isotope values distinct from living people, dietary stable isotope analysis can provide a time‐, and resource‐efficient method to screen cases of unidentified human remains early in death investigation.
Bail reform and pretrial release: Examining the implementation of In re Humphrey
Authors: Lacoe Johanna , Skog Alissa , Bird Mia
Published: November 2024

Research Summary

Pretrial reform is driving criminal justice policy debates across the nation. The In re Humphrey decision required the San Francisco County criminal court to set bail levels based on defendant ability to pay rather than the county bail schedule. Under this new policy, the rate of pretrial detention fell by 11%. We find defendants released pretrial were less likely to be convicted (a decline of 3 percentage points) in the post‐Humphrey period. This decline in conviction rates was driven primarily by a reduction in the likelihood of plea bargaining. These case outcome results are robust to an alternative strategy using propensity score matching and a difference‐in‐difference estimator to estimate effects for those most likely to be affected by the policy change. There was no consistent, statistically significant change in subsequent arrests or convictions post‐Humphrey across the estimation strategies.

Policy Implications

Although the Humphrey decision originally applied only to San Francisco, a state supreme court decision in March 2021 extended the ruling to courts throughout California. The results also have implications for other states engaged in bail reform. These findings suggest that requiring bail to be set at affordable levels increases pretrial releases overall, specifically releases to pretrial supervision programs, with improvements in case outcomes and no apparent increase in subsequent criminal justice system contact. Counties or states without robust pretrial service options may not experience the same change in releases or other outcomes. Further, jurisdictions that detain people booked on lower level offenses at higher rates than San Francisco may experience a greater response to a policy change like Humphrey.
Effect of intraoperative methadone in robot‐assisted cystectomy on postoperative opioid requirements: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Uhrbrand Camilla Gaarsdal , Obad Damir Salskov , Jensen Bente Thoft , Jensen Jørgen Bjerggaard , Friesgaard Kristian Dahl , Nikolajsen Lone
Published: November 2024

Background

Postoperative pain management is a challenge after robot‐assisted cystectomy (RAC). Methadone has a long duration of action, and we therefore hypothesized that a single dose of intraoperative methadone would reduce postoperative opioid requirements and pain intensity in bladder cancer patients undergoing RAC.

Methods

We conducted a blinded randomized controlled clinical trial from July 2020 to August 2023. Patients scheduled to undergo RAC because of bladder cancer were randomized to receive intraoperative methadone (0.15 mg/kg−1) or morphine (0.15 mg kg−1) 1 h before endotracheal extubation. The primary outcome was opioid requirements after 24 h. Secondary outcomes were opioid requirements after 3 h, pain intensity at rest and during coughing, postoperative nausea and vomiting (PONV), sedation, hypoxemia, hypoventilation, time spent in the post‐anesthetic care unit, and patient satisfaction.

Results

A total of 114 patients were randomized. Data from 99 patients (14 females, 85 males; mean age 69.8 ± 8.9 years) were available for analysis; 52 received methadone and 47 received morphine. Opioid consumption was similar between the methadone group and morphine group at 3 h (median, mg, 45 (IQR 30 to 75) vs. 45 (IQR 15 to 82.5) p = .97) and at 24 h (median, mg, 125 (IQR 75 to 198.5) versus 105 (IQR 72 to 157.5), p = .29). Pain intensity was significantly lower in the morphine group at 48 h compared with the methadone group. Patient satisfaction at 24 h was increased in the methadone group compared with the morphine group (median, (IQR), NRS; 9 (IQR 7 to 10) versus 7 (IQR 4 to 9), p = .020). There were no differences between treatment groups in terms of time spent in the post‐anesthetic care unit and the occurrence of opioid‐related side effects.

Conclusion

A single dose of intraoperative methadone does not reduce postoperative opioid requirements compared with a single dose of morphine in bladder cancer patients undergoing RAC.
Corporate Misconduct and Subsequent Consequences in Family Firms
Authors: Chen Lele , Yin Jennifer
Published: November 2024

This paper investigates the effect of family ownership on corporate misconduct and its subsequent consequences. We argue that the reduced Type I agency conflicts (conflicts between managers and shareholders) in family firms may create an alignment effect, thereby curbing managerial misbehaviour. In contrast, the more severe Type II agency issues (conflicts between family owners and other shareholders) may induce an entrenchment effect, potentially fostering misconduct in these firms. Whether and how family ownership affects firm misconduct remains an empirical question. Through a research design that analyzes both types of agency conflict across various combinations of ownership and management control, our study of S&P 500 firms in the US suggests that family ownership tends to restrain firm misconduct. Specifically, family firms with externally hired CEOs effectively mitigate Type I agency problems and deter misconduct. Further analyses of misconduct consequences show that family ownership mitigates the negative effect of misconduct on firms’ credit ratings, particularly in firms with outside‐hired CEOs. Moreover, family firms encounter less adverse market reactions in response to disclosures of misconduct penalties.
Characteristics and ingredients of disposable ‘Elfbar’ e‐cigarettes sold in the United States and the United Kingdom
Authors: Leigh Noel J. , Page Michelle K. , Jamil Hasan , Goniewicz Maciej L.
Published: November 2024

Background and aims

As of 2023, Elfbar remains the most popular brand of disposable e‐cigarette available in the United States (US) and United Kingdom (UK), with similar flavor options in both countries. At the time of this study, 5% nicotine Elfbar BC5000 was the only version available in the US, whereas 2% Elfbar 600 was the most popular in the UK. This study measured differences in nicotine content and form, aerosol emissions and flavoring chemicals in the US and UK Elfbar products.

Method

A convenience sample of eight Elfbar devices sold in the US and UK, consisting of two Elfbar models with four identical flavor options (Peach Ice, Strawberry Banana, Strawberry Ice and Strawberry Kiwi) purchased between December 2022 and February 2023, were laboratory tested. We measured nicotine concentration, form and total content. We also determined aerosol emissions and estimated the nicotine dose delivery per puff. We identified solvents and flavoring chemicals in these products.

Results

Elfbar products within the same country had similar nicotine content, concentration, form and solvents, but they differed in flavoring chemicals. US Elfbar contained, on average, higher volume (mean ± standard deviation = 6.5 ± 0.5 versus 1.8 ± 0.3 ml) of nicotine solution with a higher concentration (41.8 ± 2.3 versus 19.7 ± 1.2 mg/ml) than the UK Elfbar. An estimated dose of nicotine delivered per puff was four times higher from US Elfbar than UK Elfbar. There were differences in the type and amount of flavoring chemicals used in US and UK Elfbars, including a higher concentration of a synthetic coolant WS‐23 in US Elfbar than in UK Elfbar (17.8 ± 1.5 versus 12.9 ± 5.4 mg/ml).

Conclusions

Because the amount of nicotine found in the US Elfbar e‐cigarettes is equivalent to that found in eight UK Elfbar e‐cigarettes, people who use Elfbar sold in the US have access to much more nicotine from a single device than those who use Elfbar sold in the United Kingdom.
Population Expansion but Limited Gene Flow in Kuhl's Blue‐Spotted Maskray Along the Tanzanian Coast
Authors: Nehemia Alex , Shabani Maulidi , Malisa Allen Lewis
Published: November 2024

The blue‐spotted maskray Neotrygon kuhlii (Müller & Henle, 1841) is a member of the Dasyatidae family of stingrays which grows slowly. Members of this group mature late and have a low fecundity rate. The ICUN Red List of Threatened Species lists N. kuhlii species as data deficient (DD) because information on its ecology and life history is not readily available. The purpose of this study was to determine the genetic diversity, demographic history and population structure of N. kuhlii, all of which are critical information for efforts aimed at conserving the species. The investigation was carried out along Tanzania's coastline using 595 base pairs of partial mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase subunit I (COI) sequence. The haplotype diversity ranged between 0.37 and 0.70 and nucleotide diversity between 0.11% and 0.50%. The findings show that samples from Unguja had higher mean molecular diversity indices than those from other sampling sites. Nonetheless, samples from Mafia and Unguja were found to have the largest effective population size. Genetic variations were found between the subpopulations under study, suggesting limited genetic connectivity among the studied subpopulations. The COI sequences of N. kuhlii from most subpopulations studied showed signs of past population expansion, which are typical for most Western Indian Ocean (WIO) fauna. The findings highlight the need for enhanced management and conservation strategies for N. kuhlii and other coastal stingray species in Tanzania, particularly in areas where sampling sites showed low levels of genetic diversity and effective population size.
How People With an Intellectual Disability Experience Inclusive Third‐Level Education: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hennessy Therese , McMahon Jennifer , Doody Owen
Published: November 2024

Background

Third‐level education is a relatively new opportunity for people with intellectual disabilities. The development of third‐level educational opportunities for this population rests on understanding their experiences and suggestions for programme development and improvement. The aim of this study is to establish how inclusive third‐level education is experienced by people with intellectual disabilities.

Method

A scoping review was conducted using Arksey and O'Malley's framework of peer‐reviewed empirical research published between 2002 and 2023 that reported on the experience of third‐level education for people with intellectual disabilities.

Findings

People with intellectual disabilities are engaging in third‐level education courses within University Campuses. They consider such programmes as opportunities to meet aspirations and to enable independent living especially through employment. Their experiences are influenced by supportive staff, initiatives and challenges and they have opinions on how to improve third‐level programmes.

Conclusions

People with intellectual disabilities value and embrace the opportunities to engage in third‐level education. Their experience is mixed with positive personal outcomes and challenges. Future research is needed to examine effective approaches to overcoming challenges and finding ways to develop programmes that meet the needs of adults with intellectual disabilities.
Clinical and Radiographic Features of Peri‐Implant Medication‐Related Osteonecrosis of the Jaw: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Jo Hyeon‐Gyu , Park Wonse , Cha In‐Ho , Jung Young‐Soo , Lee Da Yun , Kim Jun‐Young
Published: November 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to analyze the factors affecting the occurrence of peri‐implant medication‐related osteonecrosis of the jaw (PI‐MRONJ) in patients using anti‐resorptive drugs (ARDs) on different implant position, inclinations, and types of prosthesis.

Methods

The data of 75 patients with bone necrosis that progressed around the implant between 2018 and 2022 were retrospectively examined to identify the factors influencing PI‐MRONJ. Data, including patient demographics (age, sex, smoking status, concomitant disease, time of ARD therapy, dose of ARDs, and parafunctional habits) and implant‐specific information (type of prosthesis, angle of insertion), were extracted from medical and dental records.

Results

Tilted implants with an angle ≥ 5.1° relative to the occlusal plane of the prosthesis had a stronger association with PI‐MRONJ in comparison to non‐tilted implants (inclination was < 5°). Additionally, the boundary of the area of osteonecrosis around the fixture was larger for the splinted implant‐supported crowns than for the single implant supported crowns).

Conclusion

In patients taking anti‐resorptive medications the inclination of the implant was associated with the occurrence of PI‐MRONJ. Further studies are required to confirm the clinical findings.
Infantile Fibromatosis Colli: Cytological Diagnosis of a Rare Entity
Authors: Mohamedali Rasheeda , Kaur Manveen , Kumar Pankaj , Handa Uma
Published: November 2024

Fibromatosis colli of infancy, a benign spindle cell lesion originating from sternocleidomastoid muscle, can be diagnosed under appropriate clinical settings, aided by radiological and cytological findings. If diagnosed early, unnecessary surgical interventions could be avoided.
Voice or text? The role of physician media choice on patient experience in online medical communities
Authors: Xia Anfei , Perera Sandun C. , Ahmed Muhammad U. , Tang Jianying , Wang Jian‐Jun
Published: November 2024

Online medical communities (OMCs) are a type of online healthcare, in which physician‐patient interaction can be comprised of a variety of media options such as pictures, text, and voice. These media formats are often used to create a personalized patient experience in AI‐driven conversational healthcare platforms. To explore how physician media usage affects patient experience, we propose a counterfactual causal inference model using AI‐driven data mining methods on 131,083 online consultation records and 7,666,111 messages sent by physicians from one of the largest OMCs in China. Our study reveals the negative impact of physician use of voice on patient experience, compared to text. Drawing upon social support theory, we identify the mechanism by which physician media usage for voice produces a negative effect. The findings indicate that the negative effect of physicians' voice‐media usage occurs mainly in low‐risk disease conditions, by weakening the role of professional and emotional support. In contrast, in high‐risk disease conditions, voice‐media usage strengthens the role of professional and emotional support in improving the patient's experience. Our study is one of the first to focus on the social support attributes of the different media formats used in OMCs. We use advanced AI text‐analysis algorithms to extract features related to social support in physician‐patient conversations, and thus contribute to the use of AI in feature extraction for research.
AI in business research
Authors: Cao Zhi , Li Meng , Pavlou Paul A
Published: November 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as a pivotal force in modern business transformation, garnering widespread attention from both practitioners and academics. With a notable exponential increase in AI‐related studies, we provide a research framework aiming to synthesize the existing literature on AI in the business field. We conduct a comprehensive review of AI research spanning from 2010 to 2023 in 25 leading business journals according to this review framework. Specifically, we review the literature from three research perspectives: (i) AI applications, (ii) human perceptions of AI, and (iii) AI behavior. We also identify five principal research questions and offer suggestions for future research directions.
The Development of Picture Comprehension Across Early Environments: Evidence From Urban and Rural Toddlers in Western Kenya
Authors: Zhu Rebecca , Pitchik Helen O. , Kilonzo Tabitha Nduku , Engelmann Jan , Fernald Lia C. , Gopnik Alison
Published: November 2024

Early childhood researchers frequently use learning materials and assessments involving pictures, across different cultures and contexts. However, there is variation in when and how children across cultures and contexts begin to understand and learn from pictures. While children growing up in high‐income contexts often have more experience with picture books and other kinds of two‐dimensional visual symbols, children growing up in low‐income, rural contexts in low‐ and middle‐income countries often have less experience with pictures and other kinds of visual symbols. The current research leverages variation in picture experience within a geographical region to investigate whether previous picture experience is related to toddlers’ (1) performance on a picture‐based word learning task, and (2) referential understanding, controlling for maternal education, number of toys, caregiver talk, and caregiver play. One hundred and twenty‐eight toddlers in urban and rural western Kenya (n = 64 per area), who had varying amounts of picture experience, participated in a picture‐based word learning task. Preregistered analyses with the entire sample showed no relation between picture experience and performance on a picture‐based word learning task, or between picture experience and referential understanding. However, exploratory analyses found a positive association between picture experience and performance on the picture‐based word learning task in the urban sample, but not the rural sample. We found no association between toddlers’ referential understanding and picture experience, in either sample. We discuss how these results may inform the efficacy of learning materials and the validity of assessments used with children from diverse global backgrounds.
Vocabulary Composition Shapes Language Development in Children With Cochlear Implants
Authors: Perry Lynn K. , Messinger Daniel S. , Cejas Ivette
Published: November 2024

Although vocabulary size is thought to index children's language abilities, an increasing body of work suggests that regularities in children's vocabulary composition, particularly the proportion of shape‐based nouns (e.g., cup), support language development. Here we examine initial vocabulary composition in children with hearing loss following cochlear implantation (n = 163) and age‐matched children with normal hearing (n = 87). This comparison constitutes an experiment in nature for understanding how early vocabulary composition shapes subsequent language development in the context of the clinical provision of auditory experience. Children with higher initial proportions of shape‐based nouns had larger vocabularies and scored higher on tests of receptive and expressive language abilities at 1, 2, and 3 years follow‐up, than children whose vocabularies had lower proportions of shape‐based nouns. These effects were strongest for cochlear implant users, especially 2–3 years postimplantation. The results suggest that knowing shape‐based nouns facilitates language development and may ameliorate delayed language development trajectories.
Five levels of famine prevention: towards a framework for the twenty‐first century and beyond
Authors: Howe Paul , Fitzpatrick Merry , Maxwell Daniel
Published: November 2024

In recent years, the world has faced a rapid rise in humanitarian needs and an increasing risk of famine. Given the potential threats posed by conflict, climate change, economic shocks, and other issues, it is important to be prepared for the possibility of new crises in the future. Drawing on key informant interviews and a literature review, this paper assesses the state of the art in famine prevention, examining a range of technical and political approaches and analysing emerging lessons. Based on the findings, it identifies five levels of famine prevention: (i) averting famine; (ii) anticipating famine; (iii) reducing famine risks; (iv) altering famine risks; and (v) preventing famine risks. The paper argues that the current focus only partially addresses a relatively narrow set of levels. It concludes that a more comprehensive approach that engages all five levels simultaneously could contribute to a global famine prevention framework for the twenty‐first century and beyond.
“I can't wait to play with you again!”: Intergenerational board games within families
Authors: Cès Pierre , Duflos Mathilde , Giraudeau Caroline
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study explores the perception of intergenerational family board games by three generations (school‐age children, parents, and grandparents).

Background

Playing board games is a rewarding experience throughout life and is particularly relevant to take into account in intergenerational studies as this activity is often shared by different generations aiming to spend time together.

Method

Semistructured interviews were conducted with 30 participants who were recruited through word of mouth and by distributing flyers in local shops such as bakeries, laundromats, or grocery stores. The interviews were analyzed using thematic analysis.

Results

Board games were seen as a way to connect, share values, and understand each other better, evoking many emotions. Participants viewed them as a means to strengthen intergenerational bonds. Each generation experienced unique benefits from board games based on their specific life challenges.

Conclusion

Board games offer an efficient means of maintaining family dynamics and provide opportunities for players of different generations to better understand each other and thereby reduce the intergenerational gap.

Implications

Board games offer enjoyable family leisure, fostering emotional connections and communication across generations. They help children experience emotions, allow parents to support their children's development, and enable older adults to connect with younger generations.