bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing the impact of sample multiplexing approaches for single-cell RNA-sequencing on downstream analysis using cerebellar organoids
Authors: Sarieva Kseniia , Kagermeier Theresa , Lysenkov Vladislav , Yentuer Zeynep , Becker Katharina , Matilainen Julia , Casadei Nicolas , Mayer Simone
Published: August 2024

Sample multiplexing provides a solution to limited sample throughput in single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) experiments. Different strategies for multiplexing are commercially provided by Parse Biosciences combinatorial barcoding (Parse) and 10x Genomics CellPlex combined with microfluidic cell capture (10x). However, the extent to which these two techniques differ when characterizing complex tissues such as regionalized neural organoids and whether data generated from the two techniques can be readily integrated is unknown. Cerebellar organoids are a highly relevant model for understanding evolutionary differences, developmental trajectories, and disease mechanisms of this brain region. However, they have not been extensively characterized through scRNA-seq. Therefore, we compared the two multiplexing techniques, 10x and Parse, using cerebellar organoids derived from three stem cell lines. While both strategies demonstrated technical reproducibility and revealed comparable cellular diversity including the main lineages of cerebellar neurons, we found more stressed cells in 10x than in Parse. Additionally, we observed differences in transcript capture, with Parse covering a higher gene biotype diversity and less mitochondrial and ribosomal protein coding transcripts. In summary, we demonstrate that both techniques provide similar insight into cerebellar organoid biology, but flexibility of experimental design, capture of long transcripts, and the level of cell stress caused by the workflow differ.
Breastmilk IgG engages the neonatal immune system to instruct host-microbiota mutualism
Authors: Shenoy Meera K. , Rico Diane , Gordon Shannon , Milburn Luke , Schwensen Jeanette , Cabàn Madelyn , Koch Meghan A.
Published: August 2024

Maternal antibodies fundamentally regulate infant immunity to the developing gut microbiota, yet the mechanisms underlying this process remain elusive. Here, we show that maternal IgG, ingested in the first week of life, functions to restrain microbiota-dependent adaptive immune responses and reduce offspring susceptibility to intestinal inflammation weeks later, following weaning. To exert these functions, efficient binding of IgG to gut bacterial antigens and engagement of Fc and complement dependent effector functions in offspring was required. These discoveries reveal a novel mechanism wherein maternal IgG engages the offspring immune system to calibrate responses to gut microbes. This mode of maternal immune instruction may provide adaptability to developmental shifts in microbiota necessary for establishing host-microbiota mutualism and limiting susceptibility to inflammatory disease.

One sentence abstract

Ingestion of maternal IgG during a discrete postnatal window calibrates neonatal immunity to the gut microbiota.
Protein sequence classification using natural language processing techniques
Authors: Perveen Huma , Weeds Julie
Published: August 2024

Proteins are essential to numerous biological functions, with their sequences determining their roles within organisms. Traditional methods for determining protein function are time-consuming and labor-intensive. This study addresses the increasing demand for precise, effective, and automated protein sequence classification methods by employing natural language processing (NLP) techniques on a dataset comprising 75 target protein classes. We explored various machine learning and deep learning models, including K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Multinomial Naive Bayes, Logistic Regression, Multi-Layer Perceptron (MLP), Decision Tree, Random Forest, XGBoost, Voting and Stacking classifiers, Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and transformer models (BertForSequenceClassification, DistilBERT, and ProtBert). Experiments were conducted using amino acid ranges of 1-4 grams for machine learning models and different sequence lengths for CNN and LSTM models. The KNN algorithm performed best on tri-gram data with 70.0% accuracy and a macro F1 score of 63.0%. The Voting classifier achieved best performance with 74.0% accuracy and an F1 score of 65.0%, while the Stacking classifier reached 75.0% accuracy and an F1 score of 64.0%. ProtBert demonstrated the highest performance among transformer models, with a accuracy 76.0% and F1 score 61.0% which is same for all three transformer models. Advanced NLP techniques, particularly ensemble methods and transformer models, show great potential in protein classification. Our results demonstrate that ensemble methods, particularly Voting Soft classifiers, achieved superior results, highlighting the importance of sufficient training data and addressing sequence similarity across different classes.
Two-Higgs-doublet model effective field theory
Authors: Dermisek Radovan , Hermanek Keith
Published: August 2024

We construct the general two-Higgs doublet model effective field theory where the effects of additional new physics are parametrized by operators up to mass dimension-six. We further transform this effective theory to the Higgs basis and provide matching of the Wilson coefficients between the two descriptions. We illustrate the advantages of the Higgs basis which include the separation of operators that modify standard model couplings and masses from operators that contribute to scattering processes only, transparent correlations between scattering processes resulting from the same operator, and derivation of correlations between different operators in specific UV completions. For completeness, we also construct specific versions corresponding to four types of two-Higgs-doublet models: type-I, -II, -X, and -Y, distinguished by Z2 symmetries which restrict the couplings of the Higgs doublets to standard model fermions. Furthermore, we derive general vacuum and stability conditions of the scalar potential in the presence of higher-dimensional terms.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Bestiary of 6D (1, 0) SCFTs: Nilpotent orbits and anomalies
Authors: Baume Florent , Lawrie Craig
Published: August 2024

Many six-dimensional (1, 0) superconformal field theories (SCFTs) are known to fall into families labeled by nilpotent orbits of certain simple Lie algebras. For each of the three infinite series of such families, we show that the anomalies for the continuous zero-form global symmetries of a theory labelled by a nilpotent orbit O of g can be determined from the anomalies of the theory associated to the trivial nilpotent orbit (the parent theory), together with the data of O. In particular, knowledge of the tensor branch field theory is bypassed completely. We show that the known anomalies, previously determined from the geometric/atomic construction, are reproduced by analyzing the Nambu-Goldstone modes inside of the moment map associated to the g flavor symmetry of the parent SCFT. This provides further evidence for the physics underlying the labeling of the SCFTs by nilpotent orbits. We remark on some consequences, such as the reinterpretation of the 6D a-theorem for such SCFTs in terms of group theory.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Phase ordering in binary mixtures of active nematic fluids
Authors: Bhattacharyya Saraswat , Yeomans Julia M.
Published: August 2024

We use a continuum, two-fluid approach to study a mixture of two active nematic fluids. Even in the absence of thermodynamically driven ordering, for mixtures of different activities we observe turbulent microphase separation, where domains form and disintegrate chaotically in an active turbulent background. This is a weak effect if there is no elastic nematic alignment between the two fluid components, but is greatly enhanced in the presence of an elastic alignment or substrate friction. We interpret the results in terms of relative flows between the two species which result from active anchoring at concentration gradients. Our results may have relevance in interpreting epithelial cell sorting and the dynamics of multispecies bacterial colonies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Denoising of imaginary time response functions with Hankel projections
Authors: Yu Yang , Kemper Alexander F. , Yang Chao , Gull Emanuel
Published: August 2024

Imaginary-time response functions of finite-temperature quantum systems are often obtained with methods that exhibit stochastic or systematic errors. Reducing these errors comes at a large computational cost—in quantum Monte Carlo simulations, the reduction of noise by a factor of two incurs a simulation cost of a factor of four. In this paper, we relate certain imaginary-time response functions to an inner product on the space of linear operators on Fock space. We then show that data with noise typically does not respect the positive definiteness of its associated Gramian. The Gramian has the structure of a Hankel matrix. As a method for denoising noisy data, we introduce an alternating projection algorithm that finds the closest positive definite Hankel matrix consistent with noisy data. We test our methodology at the example of fermion Green's functions for continuous-time quantum Monte Carlo data and show remarkable improvements of the error, reducing noise by a factor of up to 20 in practical examples. We argue that Hankel projections should be used whenever finite-temperature imaginary-time data of response functions with errors is analyzed, be it in the context of quantum Monte Carlo, quantum computing, or in approximate semianalytic methodologies.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Coordination variety of phenyltetrazolato and dimethylamido ligands in dimeric Ti, Zr, and Ta complexes
Authors: Bikzhanova Galina A. , Guzei Ilia A.
Published: August 2024

Three structurally diverse 5-phenyltetrazolato (Tz) Ti, Zr, and Ta complexes, namely, (C2H8N)[Ti2(C7H5N4)5(C2H6N)4]·1.45C6H6 or (Me2NH2)[Ti2(NMe2)4(2,3-μ-Tz)3(2-η1-Tz)2]·1.45C6H6, (1·1.45C6H6), [Zr2(C7H5N4)6(C2H6N)2(C2H7N)2]·1.12C6H6·0.382CH2Cl2 or [Zr2(Me2NH)2(NMe2)2(2,3-μ-Tz)3(2-η1-Tz)2(1,2-η2-Tz)]·1.12C6H6·0.38CH2Cl2 (2·1.12C6H6·0.38CH2Cl2), and (C2H8N)2[Ta2(C7H5N4)8(C2H6N)2O]·0.25C7H8 or (Me2NH2)2[Ta2(NMe2)2(2,3-μ-Tz)2(2-η1-Tz)6O]·0.25C7H8 (3·0.25C7H8), where TzH is 5-phenyl-1H-tetrazole, have been synthesized and structurally characterized. All three complexes are dinuclear; the Ti center in 1 is six-coordinate, whereas the Zr and Ta atoms in 2 and 3 are seven-coordinate. The coordination environments of the Ti centers in 1 are similar, and so are the ligations of the Ta centers in 3. In contrast, the two Zr centers in 2 bear a different number of ligands, one of which is a bidentate η2-5-phenyltetrazolato ligand that has not been observed previously for d-block elements. The dimethylamido ligand, present in the starting materials, remained unchanged, or was converted to dimethylamine and dimethylammonium during the synthesis. Dimethylamine coordinates as a neutral ligand, whereas dimethylammonium is retained as a hydrogen-bonded entity bridging Tz ligands.
Consumption value and context-specific attributes: the moderating effect of social class on Halal cosmetics purchase intention
Authors: Liew Christine Wan Shean , Ramayah T. , Karia Noorliza
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine factors influencing consumers’ intention to purchase Halal cosmetics through the lens of theory of consumption values (TCV).

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a quantitative research methodology, collecting data from 185 respondents through an online questionnaire. The participants, selected via purposive sampling, were all current purchasers of cosmetics. The data were analyzed using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with the assistance of IBM SPSS and SmartPLS software.

Findings

This research reveals that emotional value is the most substantial value predictor, followed by epistemic value, conditional value and functional value. Further, the moderation analysis shows that the effect of conditional value is strengthened when the consumer are from a higher social class.

Originality/value

This study reveals that consumption values with context-specific attributes directly impact consumer purchase intentions towards Halal cosmetics, while social class acts as a significant catalyst. This offers a fresh perspective that mitigates the traditional misconceptions about Halal cosmetics among Malaysians, highlighting the complexity and resilience of consumer adoption in this innovative sector.
Designing business analytics (BA) platforms: tracing the visual redesign process of a startup’s BA platform
Authors: Griva Anastasia , Karagiannaki Angeliki
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Designing effective business analytics (BA) platforms that visualise data, provide deep insights and support data-driven decision-making is a challenging task. Understanding the elements shaping BA platform design is crucial for success. The purpose of this study is to explore the impact of visualisation on usability (UI) and user experience (UX) while emphasising the importance of insights understanding in BA platform design.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents a case study following a startup’s journey as it undergoes two redesign phases for its BA platform. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods is used to assess UX/UI and insights understanding of the platform. Indicatively this included semi-structured interviews, observations, think-aloud techniques and surveys to monitor runtime per task, number of errors, users’ emotions and users’ understanding.

Findings

Our findings suggest that modifications in aesthetics and information visualisation positively influence overall usability, UX, and understanding of platform insights – a critical aspect for the success of the startup.

Research limitations/implications

Our goal is not to make a methodological contribution, but to illustrate how companies, constrained by time and pressure, navigate platform changes without meticulous design and provide learnings on important elements while designing BA platforms.

Practical implications

This paper concludes with suggested methods for assessing BA platforms and recommends practical practices to follow. These practices include recommendations on important elements for BA platform users, such as navigation and interactivity, user control and personalisation, visual consistency and effective visualisation.

Originality/value

This study contributes to practice as it presents a real-life case and offers valuable insights for practitioners.
Towards better governance: creating a corporate governance index for South African firms
Authors: Naidu Delane Deborah , McCullough Kerry , Peerbhai Faeezah
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to construct a robust index and subindices to measure the quality of corporate governance for 266 firms listed in South Africa from 2004 to 2021.

Design/methodology/approach

Public information on the compliance of King Code of Good Corporate Governance is used to construct a main index predicated on provisions relating to board characteristics, accounting and auditing and risk management. These categories are transformed into three subindices. All constructs are scored with binary coding and equally weighted.

Findings

Cronbach’s alpha test reveals that the index and subindices are highly reliable measures of corporate governance. The principal component analysis supports the construct validity of all measures.

Research limitations/implications

The index is limited to only three corporate governance subcategories and only focuses on South Africa.

Practical implications

These corporate governance indices provide governing authorities, policymakers, investors and other market participants direct information on the quality of corporate governance in South African firms.

Originality/value

As South Africa lacks a formal corporate governance indicator, the development of an appropriate corporate governance index and subindices contributes towards understanding the quality of corporate governance in South African firms. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to conduct robustness tests on corporate governance indices designed for South African companies.
WOW Skin Science: strategic adaptation for responsible advertising
Authors: Kanaveedu Aswathi , Kalapurackal Jacob Joseph , N. Elangovan , Sinha Mudita , Nagpal Mayank
Published: August 2024

Learning outcomes

After completing this case study, students will be able to understand the issues firms, brands and influencers face due to sponsorship disclosure regulation and the impact of self-regulation on firms engaging in influencer marketing, explain the challenges regulators face in ensuring compliance in an emerging market, explain Advertising Standard Council of India (ASCI)’s challenges in adopting influencer guidelines from emerged markets and recommend ethical theory (or theories) and strategies to firms engaged in influencer marketing.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study centers on Mr Manish Chowdhary, co-founder of WOW Skin Science, who started the beauty and personal care business with his brother Karan Chowdhary in 2015 in Bangalore, India. The company successfully built its brand through influencer marketing but faced challenges after the ASCI implemented new influencer guidelines. On May 31, 2021, he expressed disagreement with ASCI guidelines during an interview with Akansha Nagar from Buzz in Content, particularly the requirement to label every product or service received by influencers as an advertisement. He expressed concern about certain rules, fearing they might harm organic content and reduce viewership and followers. Subsequently, ASCI registered noncompliance cases against the company and communicated with them about complaints regarding influencer guideline violations. In this situation, Manish needed to evaluate his decision on noncompliance with regulation and required an action plan to strategically manage its influencer marketing campaign by incorporating ASCI’s guidelines. Overall, this case study highlights the journey of WOW Skin Science and its challenges with self-regulatory authorities over its influencer marketing strategy in an emerging market. Additionally, students can gain insight into the marketing communication ethics of a startup operating in an emerging market by embodying the protagonist’s role.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for postgraduate level students pursuing a Master of Business Administration program. The difficulty level ranges from moderate to complex. It fits well into integrated marketing communication and marketing strategy courses. This case study discusses marketing ethics, advertising and promotion regulation.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 8: Marketing.
Re-envisioning vocational education: critical discourse analysis of a government publicity campaign in Hong Kong
Authors: Chan Kara , Zhang Jasmine
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Vocational education in Hong Kong suffers from an image problem. Stakeholders often perceive it as a second-best option for those who fail to advance in academic education. In 2016, to promote vocational education, the Hong Kong government launched a publicity campaign and rebranded vocational education and training (VET) as vocational and professional education and training (VPET). This study critically analyzes the new discourse crafted by this campaign and assesses its potential to change VPET’s status.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies critical discourse analysis to the set of television public service advertisements produced as part of the government publicity campaign.

Findings

The messaging of the publicity campaign consists of two major discursive strategies. One stresses the ability to find self-fulfillment through VPET. The other stresses the academic ability and middle-class status of VPET students as well as the non-manual and high-end career opportunities for graduates. While the first strategy offers a new basis on which to value VPET, the second recreates assumptions about the value of academic achievement and what constitutes respectable employment, even as it attempts to challenge stereotypes. It reinforces that the ultimate goal of education is financial gain and social status. It overlooks other values of education and the potential value of VPET in enhancing individual choice and agency.

Research limitations/implications

Discourse analysis does not provide information about audience perceptions and interpretations.

Social implications

The government could consider reframing their messaging in terms of the diverse values and experiences of VPET students. Highlighting the values that VPET students themselves see in their education provides alternative discourses that can better challenge hegemonic ideas.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first discourse analysis of the government’s publicity campaign to promote VPET.
Assessment of the impact of intellectual capital development on firm development: an ISM approach
Authors: Behera Manasee , Mishra Rohita Kumar
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The paper aims to determine how intellectual capital development mediators aid in the development of the company. Intellectual capital management (ICM) enhancers are difficult to measure, yet there is enough information available to assess how they affect the development of an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The following queries have been covered in this paper: What are the essential components that make up a firm's development? What part do ICM facilitators play in the development of the company? A methodical analysis of the literature was used to determine the ICM facilitators that propel the growth of the organization. To determine the crucial components of ICM effectiveness, a survey-based questionnaire was sent to a variety of employees in the public and private sectors of Indian organizations.

Findings

The interpretive structural modeling (ISM) provides information on the degree of involvement and illustrates how facilitators impact one another. In this paper, the ICM strategy is described in general terms and how businesses can use it for the development of the firms that boosts productivity and efficiency. The significance of human, structural and relational capital (RC) in Indian enterprises is examined in this paper. In addition to human capital, structural capital and relational capital, organizational culture, innovation and learning are all essential for putting ICM practices into practice. Specifically, these elements directly affect a business's ability to gain a competitive advantage, grow and improve organizational performance and ultimately the development of the firms.

Research limitations/implications

The profiles of the respondents and the organizations to which they belong must be taken into consideration when interpreting the research's conclusions and findings. The respondents are limited to Indian organizations only.

Practical implications

ICM facilitators can reduce the number of complaints from customers and increase their satisfaction with the goods and services provided by Indian firms. ICM efforts may also be redirected into innovation to raise the quality of goods and services.

Originality/value

To improve firm development, experts who develop and implement ICM systems and processes in their respective fields might find this study useful in identifying the facilitators and developing a suitable plan for the methodical growth of intellectual capital that makes use of ISM.
Perceptions of different communication strategies on proenvironmental waste disposal behavior: a case study with university students in Brazil
Authors: Maris Lima Cruz Cassiana , Bosa Igor Grotto , Kolling Camila , de Medeiros Janine Fleith , Ribeiro José Luís Duarte
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the perception of young people regarding different communication strategies to promote proenvironmental disposal behavior. Based on the attention-interest-desire-action (AIDA) model, the study analyses how university students react to different communication approaches used by a university aiming at the correct disposal of waste.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a qualitative exploratory research in two steps: (i) a narrative bibliographic review and (ii) a case study. The (i) bibliographic review was conducted about proenvironmental behavior and disposal of solid waste and response hierarchy models, with emphasis on the AIDA model. The (ii) case study was executed through an in-depth interview with a manager of the environmental sanitation area and a qualitative survey with undergraduate students from a university in southern Brazil.

Findings

The findings reveal that young people tend to prefer communication strategies related to triggers for long-term memory, especially when evaluating the cognitive stage of the response hierarchy. For example, the provision of bins identified with stickers and colors is a communication strategy that leads to a memory model of associative networks. By viewing a certain color or image of an object, the individual can quickly retrieve information already known about the act of properly disposing of waste. Additionally, convenience is a key factor for the behavioral intention of properly disposing of waste to become a reality.

Originality/value

Few studies have identified the most effective communication strategies to promote proper disposal behavior among young people in universities. This study addresses this gap, based on the AIDA model.
Hybrid religious civil society organization, the Israeli case of “the path upwards” lesson learned
Authors: Moskovich Yaffa , Binhas Adi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the unique cultural attributes of a particular association. The research focuses on a single case study involving a civil society organization whose activities are focused within the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). Specifically, the association under examination is a religious voluntary organization engaged in social activities within the Israeli Defense Forces.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection employed a qualitative approach using the case study method, with twenty in-depth ethnographic interviews conducted. The research questions guiding the study are: What are the hybrid structural characteristics of the religious association? How has this hybrid structure influenced the organizational culture?

Findings

The study identifies a hybrid structure comprising community, familial, and bureaucratic features. It reveals a blend of clan and bureaucratic cultural elements within the organization, demonstrating adaptability to the ideology of the Israeli Defense Forces.

Originality/value

The research uncovers an innovative hybrid structure that successfully navigates bureaucratic challenges and fosters a familial atmosphere contributing to communal benefits.
Fraud risk of sovereign wealth funds: fraud triangle and agency theory perspectives
Authors: Lootah Manar , Gleason Kimberly , Smith Deborah , Zoubi Taisier
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine failures in internal and external controls associated with sovereign wealth funds (SWFs), using three caselets to illustrate the fraud triangle theory factors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative research approach. Caselets are used to illustrate the fraud triangle factors associated with SWFs.

Findings

Ideally, SWFs would be characterized by opacity and the strategic flexibility to advance political goals, but this operational agility facilitates an environment ripe for fraud, in large part because there is little transparency with regard to their regulatory structure. Elements of the fraud triangle inherent in the structure of SWFs contribute to the fraud found in the three case examples.

Research limitations/implications

The authors use three SWF fraud cases rather than statistical sampling of all SWFs, which limits the generalizability of the findings. Future research should explore additional recommendations for the evaluation of SWF governance.

Practical implications

The overlap between public sector governance and SWF governance creates an environment amenable to fraud, and as a result, fraud has occurred in several SWFs. Governance recommendations should take into account the lessons learned from previous SWF fraud cases.

Social implications

Ideally, SWFs would be characterized by opacity and the strategic flexibility to advance political goals, but this operational agility may also facilitate an environment ripe for fraud, in large part because there is little transparency with regard to their regulatory structure.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first to identify the fraud triangle risk factors associated with sovereign wealth funds using SWF fraud caselets.
Anthropomorphism-based artificial intelligence (AI) robots typology in hospitality and tourism
Authors: Saputra Fachri Eka , Buhalis Dimitrios , Augustyn Marcjanna M. , Marangos Stefanos
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Anthropomorphism plays a crucial role in the deployment of human-like robots in hospitality and tourism. This study aims to propose an anthropomorphism-based typology of artificial intelligence (AI) robots, based on robot attributes, usage, function and application across different operational levels.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) checklist, the research was conducted in two stages. A search strategy was implemented to explore anthropomorphism-based AI robots and to develop a robot typology.

Findings

This study provides a comprehensive typology of anthropomorphism-based AI robots used in tourism and hospitality and classifies them into four types, namely, chatbots, mechanoids, humanoids and android robots. Each type features distinct functions and applications.

Practical implications

The findings can assist companies in using anthropomorphic robots to improve service and strengthen competitiveness. This study offers valuable insights to managers for deploying AI robots across diverse service sectors.

Originality/value

This research provides a novel typology of hospitality and tourism AI robots and extends the understanding of anthropomorphism in human–robot interaction. This typology encompasses both virtual and physical robots, providing clarity on their attributes, usage, functions and applications across diverse areas of hospitality operations.
Usage and adoption intent of NFC payment methods: an investigation based on the UTAUT-3 model and perceived risk theory
Authors: Aliu Flokart
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study investigates near field communication (NFC) payment method adoption in the Republic of Kosova, aiming to understand factors influencing consumer behavior toward NFC technology adoption. Using the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT-3) model and perceived risk theory, the research seeks to establish relationships between various factors and user intentions regarding NFC payment technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative approach, the research used a comprehensive questionnaire of 40 questions rated on a seven-point Likert scale across 16 constructs aligned with the research objectives. A convenience sampling method was used, distributing electronic questionnaires to 200 individuals representing diverse demographics in the Republic of Kosova.

Findings

The study identified significant support for numerous hypotheses, demonstrating substantial correlations between factors like performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence, habit, facilitating conditions and personal innovativeness with behavioral intention to use and behavioral intention to adopt NFC payments.

Research limitations/implications

Because convenience sampling was used, there are restrictions on the study’s sample size. Moreover, although the study delves into noteworthy elements impacting the adoption of NFC payment systems, it might not cover all possible factors that could influence consumer behavior in this regard.

Practical implications

Policymakers, NFC product developers, companies in the technology and payment sectors and Republic of Kosova customers all gain strategically from the research’s findings. Policymakers may make informed judgments about legislation, improve product development and marketing tactics and empower consumers to accept NFC payments by having a better understanding of consumer preferences and behaviors related NFC technology.

Social implications

Understanding consumer preferences and behaviors regarding NFC technology can refine product development and marketing strategies, inform policymaking and empower consumers’ decisions about adopting NFC payments.

Originality/value

This study’s innovative approach in combining the UTAUT-3 model and perceived risk theory contributes significantly to the understanding of factors influencing users’ intentions in adopting emerging payment technologies, filling a gap in NFC payment literature.
From coal to tourism: a game-changer in the sustainable transition process
Authors: Pukowiec-Kurda Katarzyna , Apollo Michal
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper gives mining area managers guidance on how to begin this process and which scenario to choose. It aims not only to improve the quality of the environment but also to attend to the well-being of societies previously benefiting from the economic resources of raw materials. However, this task can be difficult to accomplish in countries of the poor South.

Design/methodology/approach

Building resilient infrastructure, promoting inclusive and sustainable industrialization and fostering innovation are among WHO’s main goals. Ensuring the possibility of an equitable transition from traditional resource industries to sustainable resource management is a key task for global society.

Findings

The transformation of mines into tourist attractions has been studied by several authors. In many countries of the Global North, this transformation has been successful (to a greater or lesser extent). Unfortunately, much remains to be done in many countries of the South. These countries, often at the risk to miners’ lives, engage in mining that is often economically unsustainable. The reason may not only be economic shortcomings but also a lack of conceptual solutions.

Practical implications

The current climate situation presents opportunities to receive funds from Northern countries that can be used for such a transformation.

Originality/value

Regions of the world with a history of transformation from raw material industries to services can provide know-how assistance and knowledge of good practices. Tourism in this aspect can become one of the game changers in the fight for a better future, including tourism itself.
Silence is golden? – Analysing the transparency of ESG controversies in corporate reporting within the pharmaceutical and textile industry
Authors: Schwoy Sophia M. , Dutzi Andreas , Messing Juliane
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study is to critically examine the transparency and reporting practice of Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) controversies within the pharmaceutical and textile industry. Based on the four core dimensions of transparency, we explore which reporting medium is most frequently chosen for the disclosure of negative ESG contributions, the nature and information content of the disclosed incidents and how voluntary adherence to sustainability reporting standards and independent assurances affect the reporting.

Design/methodology/approach

We use conceptual content analysis and employ a counter-accounting approach to analyse the disclosure of 190 ESG controversies in 104 corporate reports from the pharmaceutical and textile industries, covering a three-year period from 2018–2020.

Findings

The very large majority of controversies are reported only once in the legal proceedings section of the annual report, but not again in the sustainability report, where it would be necessary to provide a balanced picture. Moreover, companies tend to disclose only those controversies that are either associated with high media attention or are expected to be related to litigation, resulting in 26 per cent of controversies not being disclosed at all. The overall quality of disclosure is unsatisfactory and in need of improvement, but comparably higher in the pharmaceutical industry than in the textile industry. Interestingly, neither the application of sustainability reporting standards nor independent assurance seems to positively impact the disclosure behaviour.

Originality/value

Our paper provides new insights into the shortcomings of current ESG controversy disclosures by revealing patterns of selective reporting practices and the strategic framing of issues. In addition, it contributes to the debates on corporate cherry-picking in the adoption of sustainability reporting guidelines and on the effectiveness of external assurance of sustainability reports. Based on the findings, it offers important implications for practitioners, in particular management, policy makers, rating agencies and assurance providers.
The dark side of impact measurement: complexities and drawbacks
Authors: Golbspan Lutz Fernanda , Delgado Natalia Aguilar , Petrini Maira
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to contribute to the discussion surrounding impact measurement on social enterprises (SEs). The findings provide a more nuanced perspective on tensions that often emerge from SEs journeys by presenting the complexities which social entrepreneurs and investors should be attentive to.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used grounded theory as the means to explore how stakeholders accomplish the requirements for impact measurement, overcoming the challenges that arise in the process. Through 18 semi-structured interviews, the authors develop a conceptual model to better understand how a practice that is often taken for granted might compromise SEs achievements and sustainability in the long term.

Findings

The proposed model uncovered an unintended consequence of impact measurement: mission drift. The requirements to assess the social impact raise expectations on different actors and create challenges that affect the true purpose of SEs, the delivery of their social mission.

Practical implications

This study contributes to research and practice. First, the authors develop a theoretical model for social entrepreneurs and social investors to shed light on the hidden consequences of impact measurement. Second, the authors strengthen the knowledge in the field by conducting a study on SEs outside the mainstream Western-centric context.

Originality/value

The authors enrich the literature by exploring the tensions related to impact measurement in SEs in the Global South and unravel new perspectives on the subject.
Navigating digital transformation: the role of management innovation in achieving digital maturity
Authors: Chen Ken-Zen , Wang I. Kim , Seidle Russell J.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Digital technologies promise efficiency gains and untapped opportunity. Adoptions of digital technology lead firms to rethink their organizational setup and existing practices. This paper aims to present a management innovation-based framework that describes new processes and practices for digital transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a structural equation modeling approach to test the framework with survey responses from a sample of 901 Taiwanese organizations – both local firms and multinational subsidiaries – to explore the linkages between adoption of digital technologies and digital maturity.

Findings

The results reveal that management innovation mediates the relationship between digital technology adoption and digital maturity. Moreover, fast-paced environments have a greater impact of management innovation toward digital maturity than slow-paced environments.

Originality/value

This study adds to emerging research that considers the role of organizational learning in digital transformation efforts. The extent to which organizations link the lessons from direct experience to digital routines through which management innovation is implemented determines to a large extent whether this strategic initiative is optimized by the firm. More generally, the findings point to the mutual importance of digital maturity and experiential learning efforts, and suggest a specific means by which learning processes are mobilized by innovating organizations. This study contributes to digital transformation research by providing insight into how a firm can restart failed transformation initiatives of this kind.
Determining awareness of and readiness for standardized nursing languages in a mid‐level midwestern hospital and associated school of nursing
Authors: Wagner Cheryl , Cummins Karen , Dean Megan
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine knowledge, attitude, and barriers toward care planning documentation practices with standardized nursing languages (SNLs) of nurses and nursing students at a midwestern healthcare system, comparing student and nurse responses.

Methods

Cross‐sectional surveys were given over a 2‐month period with nurses and nursing students at different sites in a midwestern healthcare system, using convenience sampling. The Knowledge, Attitude, and Barriers to Using Standardized Nursing Languages and Current Practices Survey was adapted for use and re‐tested for validity/reliability (Content Validity Index 0.81–1.00; Cronbach alpha = 0.82–0.99) with 28 Likert scale items measuring knowledge, attitude, and barriers. Descriptive statistics, composite scores, correlations, t‐tests, and multiple regression were used to analyze the concepts of the tool.

Findings

134/400 RNs responded (34%); 109/116 students responded (93.9%). Data analyses indicate adequate to superior levels of knowledge related to SNLs and NANDA International, Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), and Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC), collectively referred to as NNN (NANDA, NIC, & NOC), positive attitudes toward SNLs/NNN and for adopting SNLs/NNN into documentation practices, but moderate to great barriers for implementation in practice. Barriers included lack of financial resources for change, lack of mentors, and lack of mandates to use SNLs. Students scored significantly higher than nurses in attitude only.

Conclusions

Perceptions of nurses and student nurses for current documentation indicate awareness of inadequacy in existing systems and willingness to change existing systems for standardized languages, with perceived barriers to change/implementation of SNLs. Students were more positive about SNLs than nurses.

Implications for nursing practice

Major implications for nursing are to reevaluate electronic documentation systems and determine how to insert and easily apply SNLs in these systems, such that nursing care documentation is standardized, interoperable, effective, time‐saving, and attainable.
Postoperative 68Ga‐DOTATATE positron emission tomography has a low yield in incidental appendiceal neuroendocrine tumours
Authors: Pauvert Emilie , Larcos George
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Rarely, appendiceal neuroendocrine tumours (NET) are an incidental finding when an appendicectomy is undertaken for suspected appendicitis. The role of further imaging in this setting is poorly defined. Positron emission tomography (PET) using 68Ga‐DOTATATE is requested to evaluate post‐surgical status, however, there is little evidence to guide how it should be employed. The aims of this project are to: (i) characterize 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET findings in patients with incidental appendiceal NETs and (ii) discuss how these data might inform post‐surgical imaging with PET.

Methods

We reviewed 47 PET scans in 30 patients, undertaken from 2009 to 2018. Scintigraphic findings, histopathological characteristics of the initial appendiceal lesion and medical records were reviewed.

Results

Most patients (n = 15) had small (<10 mm) appendiceal NETs with low grade (Ki67 < 2%) features. Eight patients had tumours between 10 and 20 mm, and seven had tumours >20 mm. Goblet cell features were identified in two patients. Three positive PET scans were reported in one patient with an index tumour measuring 40 mm and Ki67 < 2%. The remaining 29 patients had 44 negative scans. Clinical outcome data were available in 27 patients (mean follow‐up time 57 months; range 6–123 months). There was no evidence of recurrent neuroendocrine disease at the time of the last follow‐up.

Conclusion

These data indicate that in most cases, post‐surgical 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET is negative in patients with incidentally detected appendiceal NETs. Clinical outcome data suggest that 68Ga‐DOTATATE PET should be reserved for patients with large tumours (>20 mm) or those displaying goblet cell features.
Deep learning‐based segmentation in MRI‐(immuno)histological examination of myelin and axonal damage in normal‐appearing white matter and white matter hyperintensities
Authors: Solé‐Guardia Gemma , Luijten Matthijs , Janssen Esther , Visch Ruben , Geenen Bram , Küsters Benno , Claassen Jurgen A. H. R. , Litjens Geert , de Leeuw Frank‐Erik , Wiesmann Maximilian , Kiliaan Amanda J.
Published: August 2024

The major vascular cause of dementia is cerebral small vessel disease (SVD). Its diagnosis relies on imaging hallmarks, such as white matter hyperintensities (WMH). WMH present a heterogenous pathology, including myelin and axonal loss. Yet, these might be only the “tip of the iceberg.” Imaging modalities imply that microstructural alterations underlie still normal‐appearing white matter (NAWM), preceding the conversion to WMH. Unfortunately, direct pathological characterization of these microstructural alterations affecting myelinated axonal fibers in WMH, and especially NAWM, is still missing. Given that there are no treatments to significantly reduce WMH progression, it is important to extend our knowledge on pathological processes that might already be occurring within NAWM. Staining of myelin with Luxol Fast Blue, while valuable, fails to assess subtle alterations in white matter microstructure. Therefore, we aimed to quantify myelin surrounding axonal fibers and axonal‐ and microstructural damage in detail by combining (immuno)histochemistry with polarized light imaging (PLI). To study the extent (of early) microstructural damage from periventricular NAWM to the center of WMH, we refined current analysis techniques by using deep learning to define smaller segments of white matter, capturing increasing fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery signal. Integration of (immuno)histochemistry and PLI with post‐mortem imaging of the brains of individuals with hypertension and normotensive controls enables voxel‐wise assessment of the pathology throughout periventricular WMH and NAWM. Myelin loss, axonal integrity, and white matter microstructural damage are not limited to WMH but already occur within NAWM. Notably, we found that axonal damage is higher in individuals with hypertension, particularly in NAWM. These findings highlight the added value of advanced segmentation techniques to visualize subtle changes occurring already in NAWM preceding WMH. By using quantitative MRI and advanced diffusion MRI, future studies may elucidate these very early mechanisms leading to neurodegeneration, which ultimately contribute to the conversion of NAWM to WMH.