bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Navigating the aftermath: evaluating COVID-19’s lasting effects – multiple case studies from Slovenian public administration
Authors: Vrbek Sanja , Jukić Tina
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The paper adopts a holistic approach to studying the scale and scope of organisational change resulting from the COVID-19 crisis within the Slovenian public administration. It aims to go beyond the relatively narrow research focus of existing literature, which is confined to short-term responses to the crisis affecting specific organisational aspects of public administration.

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretically underpinned by Nograšek and Vintar’s (2014) upgrade of Leavitt’s diamond model, the paper employs a multi-case study design to explore the long-term implications of COVID-19-induced changes within the Slovenian public administration.

Findings

The findings reveal an uneven impact of the COVID-19 crisis across Slovenian state administration organisations in terms of the scale and scope of changes, noting that the two key long-term changes – telework and new digital communication channels – have not become equivalent alternatives to traditional work and communication methods. Moreover, the paper identifies changes within the element “people” as the primary disruptors of organisational equilibrium, triggering a ripple effect of changes within other organisational elements.

Originality/value

The paper debunks the myth about the “radical” impact of COVID-19 by concluding that long-term changes have not altered the essence of (Slovenian) public organisations, characterised as traditional public administration. Theoretically, it demonstrates the need for a new adaptation of Leavitt’s diamond model to explain organisational changes in turbulent/crisis times.
Unveiling wine and cannabis consumption motivations: a segmentation study of wine consumers in Germany
Authors: Ghvanidze Sophie , Franco Lucas Bárbara , Brunner Thomas A. , Hanf Jon Henrich
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Wine consumption is declining, while cannabis use among young adults in Germany has surged. With new laws partially legalising recreational cannabis, advocates claim it could replace alcohol, offering health benefits and cost savings. However, concerns remain that cannabis might increase alcohol consumption and associated health risks. Despite recognition of both substitute and complementary relationships between cannabis and alcohol, data on the cannabis–wine relationship is scarce. This study aims to understand the motivations behind wine and cannabis consumption, segment wine drinkers by those motives, profile wine drinkers who also consume cannabis and determine whether wine and cannabis act as substitutes or complements across distinct consumer groups.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted an online survey using random sampling and used cluster analysis to identify consumer segments based on motivations for wine consumption. Exploring various variables, including consumption motives, behavioural patterns and socio-demographics, the authors also examined cannabis consumption among wine drinkers.

Findings

This study surveyed 523 German wine drinkers aged 20–60 years, including 215 cannabis users. Four consumer segments emerged: “adaptive conformists”, “expansive strategists”, “self-conscious hedonists” and “ambivalent drinkers.” Three segments preferred wine for social and enhancing effects. “Adaptive conformists”, the group with the most cannabis users, sought negative reinforcement like conformity or coping. The “adaptive conformists” and “expansive strategists” show the tendencies of a complementary cannabis–wine relationship.

Originality/value

This study pioneers the use of the Marijuana Motives Measure scales, developed by Simons et al. (1998), within the motivational framework by Cox and Klinger (1988) and Cooper et al. (2015), for wine drinkers. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is also the first to categorise wine drinkers into segments based on MMM scales for both wine and cannabis and segment wine consumers using cannabis.
Effect of manganese-based composite phosphating coatings on the tribological performance of cylindrical thrust roller bearings
Authors: Xu Xiao , Zhang Yimin , Long Risheng
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the frictional performance of the phosphated CTRBs under dry sliding conditions. Through friction and wear experiments and characterization analysis, this paper investigated the wear mechanism and anti-wear mechanism of the composite phosphating coatings.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper used a method of incorporating graphite particles and polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) particles into manganese-based phosphating solution to prepare composite phosphating coatings applied on cylindrical thrust roller bearings (CTRBs).

Findings

The results are as follows: the inclusion of functionalized graphite particles affects the characterization of the composite phosphating coatings, whereas PTFE particles serve a physical filling role and have no influence on the surface features of the composite phosphating coatings. The surface roughness of the composite phosphating coatings is the main factor affecting the frictional behavior of phosphated CRTBs. Roughness affects the amount of PTFE particles adsorbed on the surface of the phosphate crystals. PTFE particles can form a solid lubricating film at the friction interface, and under the same surface roughness conditions, phosphated CTRBs with added PTFE particles can improve its friction performance.

Originality/value

The characterization parameters of the composite phosphating coatings were controlled by adding functionalized graphite particles to the phosphating solution. The effects of adding only graphite particles and adding both graphite particles and PTFE particles on the surface characteristics of the phosphating coatings were discussed separately. The tribological performance of phosphating CTRBs was analyzed through friction and wear testing, and the influence of surface characteristics on wear mechanisms and anti-wear mechanisms was discussed.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-10-2024-0405/
Understanding the mediator and moderator role of digital citizenship on cyber harassment
Authors: Macharia Mary , Dunaway Mary
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Drawing on two competing theories, the online disinhibition effect and communication privacy management, this study explores the antecedents of cyber harassment and the mediating and moderating role of digital citizenship on cyber harassment among adults.

Design/methodology/approach

To ensure the quality of the data collected, participant recruitment was conducted using two panels: Qualtrics and Cloud Research. The sample comprised 262 participants who were USA residents aged between 18 and 87 years who use the Internet regularly. Additionally, the survey required a balance of participants across racial and educational levels. The survey was drawn from items for which reliability and validity indexes have been tested and confirmed in prior disparate studies.

Findings

Results show that digital citizenship is a significant moderator in the relationships between disposition to value web privacy, perceived online disinhibition and cyber harassment. Digital citizenship behavior mediates the relationship between perceived online disinhibition and cyber harassment but does not mediate the relationship between disposition to value privacy and cyber harassment.

Originality/value

The results of this study broaden the understanding of digital citizenship as a behavior modification for cyber harassment, specifically among adult Internet users. Further, we seek to bring together two streams of research that have previously been studied separately: the literature on the antecedents of perceived online disinhibition and disposition to value web privacy concerns.
Navigating the privacy paradox in a digital age: balancing innovation, data collection and ethical responsibility
Authors: Jones Martin
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the intersection of generative artificial intelligence (AI), data collection and consumer privacy, highlighting ethical tensions in AI-driven advertising. This study examines key challenges, including data mining in smart devices and the implications of high-profile cases like Amazon’s proposed acquisition of iRobot.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a conceptual exploration of case studies, regulatory developments and the current legislative responses in the USA and the European Union. This study further proposes ethical self-regulation, drawing parallels to historical precedents like the Defense Industry Initiative, while emphasizing transparency, privacy-by-default and consumer-centric AI design.

Findings

The findings of this study reveal significant gaps in existing regulatory frameworks, particularly in the USA, and underscore the need for proactive industry leadership in self-regulation. This paper identifies practical solutions, such as opt-in data collection models and the incorporation of moral reasoning into AI training, to enhance consumer trust and privacy protections.

Practical implications

Businesses can leverage this paper’s proposal to navigate the privacy paradox, enhance consumer trust and mitigate privacy risks, thus fostering ethical innovation.

Social implications

Addressing privacy concerns proactively can alleviate societal apprehensions about AI technologies, contributing to broader acceptance, consumer trust and ethical integration of AI-enabled data collection in daily life.

Originality/value

This study bridges the gap between theoretical discussions on AI ethics and practical, implementable solutions. By advocating for self-regulation alongside robust legislative measures, this study provides a novel pathway to balance technological innovation with ethical responsibility in data-driven advertising.
Recommender system ethics from Turkish academics’ perspective: a Q-methodology inquiry
Authors: Sancar Iskender Volkan
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to uncover the trends in Turkish experts’ views on the ethical concerns surrounding recommendation systems that use machine learning.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a Q-methodology approach. To apply Q-methodology, a document review was first conducted as a meta study of meta studies. Then, to create a Q-set, semi-structured interviews were conducted with ten experts. Finally, the Q-methodology was conducted with 42 academics.

Findings

Turkish academics have diverse perspectives on the ethics of recommender systems. All groups agree on the importance of safeguarding user data and ensuring its ethical use, including concerns about data confidentiality and security and preventing data from being sold, stolen or monopolized by companies. Individualistic thinkers believe that recommendation systems have a minimal impact on social issues, such as polarization and inequality, and argue that users benefit from these services. Social thinkers emphasize the need to understand how these systems work and hold individuals accountable for their actions. Anxious thinkers are concerned about the potential for human rights violations and unfair competition through biased algorithms and agree that companies should not be the sole focus of regulations.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, no study has investigated Turkish academics’ thoughts on AI ethics. It is also rare for research to be conducted methodologically using the Q-methodology. Although the findings are based on a recommender system, the results can be generalized to all machine learning systems.
Financialization and vertical integration enhance renter-perceived property owner effectiveness
Authors: Wilson Grant Alexander , Jogia Jason , Pitariu Adrian
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This work examines the impact of financialization and vertical integration on renter-perceived property owner effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of 1,186 renters in the US, the UK and Canada, the research addresses gaps in the literature regarding the implications of financialization and vertical integration on renters.

Findings

In contrast to previous work that shows the negative implications of financialization, the results indicate that financialization is positively correlated with renter-perceived property owner effectiveness, challenging the prevailing narrative that it strictly benefits shareholders and the financial elite. Vertical integration’s effect on renter-perceived property owner effectiveness was also shown to be positive and significant, enhancing the existing vertical integration literature that has not focused on real estate. A post-hoc interaction analysis revealed the benefits of vertical integration on renter sentiment are greater among highly financialized firms.

Practical implications

The study offers managerial considerations for property owners seeking to enhance renter sentiment and satisfaction as well as contributes to real estate strategy and management literature.

Originality/value

These results are novel, as previous research has not empirically shown financialization to elicit benefits for broader stakeholder groups.
Unraveling the relationship between ESG strategy and sustainable performance in the Spanish wine industry: a structural equation analysis
Authors: Martínez-Falcó Javier , Sánchez-García Eduardo , Marco-Lajara Bartolomé , Millán-Tudela Luis A.
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to assess the relationship between environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy and sustainable performance, in addition to exploring the mediating role of green innovation in this connection. Moreover, age, size and membership in a Protected Designation of Origin are incorporated as control variables to increase the precision of the relationships examined.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was created to meet the intended research objectives and then validated using partial least squares structural equation modeling with primary data obtained from a survey administered to 196 Spanish wineries, which took place between September 2022 and January 2023.

Findings

The study findings indicate that the implementation of an ESG strategy has a positive and significant relationship with the sustainable performance of wineries. In addition, green product and process innovation appear to partially mediate this relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size (196 wineries) limits the generalizability of the findings to the population under study, which suggests caution in their interpretation. In addition, the cross-sectional design of the study prevents from observing dynamic changes over time.

Originality/value

This research significantly advances the understanding of ESG strategy through a holistic view of its relationship with the sustainable performance of the wine industry. Indeed, it fills a critical gap in the academic literature, as ESG strategy has been scarcely explored in the wine industry setting, despite the specific environmental and social challenges faced by this sector. Furthermore, it pioneers the investigation of green innovation as a mediating factor in the relationship between ESG strategy and sustainable winery performance, providing new findings that can shape strategic management practices in the wine sector.
The rural areas conservancy sites and ecotourism-climate change quandaries: an integrated rural initiative impact on environmental sustainability and livelihoods
Authors: Ramaano Azwindini Isaac
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aims to investigate issues of natural resource management (NRM), conservation and ecotourism leadership on rural livelihood in Musina Local Municipality, Limpopo Province, South Africa. It concentrated on the existing and probable effects of ecotourism and integrated rural activities and their environmental influences on climate change and vice versa, subsistence and sustainability. The study utilizes a broad literature review, focus group discussions and field observations to investigate the municipality’s biodiversity, holistic livelihoods and tourism resource and facility concerns with climate change implications in the study area, with data analyzed manually and also by means of cross tabulations and central tendencies. A harmful link between ecotourism-induced environmental impacts and integrated rural activities that retain potential climate change consequences is found to exist in the vicinity. Nevertheless, it is fathomed in line with the study findings that when tourism actions adhere to the justifications of sustainable and responsible tourism management, they can result in better ecotourism products that foster environmental sustainability and enhance rural livelihoods. Therefore, the study has identified a need for decent ecotourism facilities and activities and a managerial approach to diminish climate change hazards and spur subsistence for local communities in the municipality. Within its rationale and ability, the study presents an analysis of conservation, ecotourism management, environmental degradation and responsible tourism qualities regarding climate change consequences within the municipality.
Isoferulic Acid Inhibits Proliferation and Migration of Pancreatic Cancer Cells, and Promotes the Apoptosis of Pancreatic Cancer Cells in a Mitochondria‐Dependent Manner Through Inhibiting NF‐κB Signalling Pathway
Authors: Sun Suqin , Fan Rong , Chang Li , Gao Lei , Liu Chunting , Liu Dongying , Niu Shiyu
Published: January 2025

Isoferulic acid (IA), a derivative of cinnamic acid, is derived from Danshen and exhibits anticancer properties by disrupting cancer cell activities. However, its role in pancreatic cancer, the “king of cancer”, was unknown. In this study, pancreatic cancer cells were subjected to treatment with IA (6.25, 12.5, 25 μM), and nude mice injected with pancreatic cancer cells were received IA at doses of 7.5 mg/kg/day or 30 mg/kg/day by oral administration. CCK8, Annexin V‐FITC/propidium iodide (PI) double staining and TUNEL assay were conducted to evaluate the cell viability and apoptosis. Hoechst staining and comet assay was employed to measure DNA damage. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) analysis was carried out to explain the mitochondrial damage. EdU and wound healing assay were performed for cell proliferation and migration detection. Immunofluorescence and western blot were used to explore the mechanism. We found that IA reduced cell viability and induced apoptosis, as evidenced by an increase in Annexin V‐FITC+PI− and Annexin V‐FITC+PI+ cell populations, brighter TUNEL and Hoechst staining, and more percentage of tail DNA. Furthermore, IA decreased MMP and changed levels of apoptosis‐related proteins. The cell proliferation and migration were inhibited by IA treatment. Mechanically, IA downregulated the phosphorylation of IĸBα and inhibited p65 nuclear translocation, consequently suppressing NF‐κB pathway. In general, IA suppressed the cell proliferation and migration, and caused apoptosis of pancreatic cancer cells in a mitochondria‐dependent manner through blocking NF‐κB signalling pathway, indicating that IA may be a potential therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer.
Regulation of Rhizobial Nodulation Genes by Flavonoid‐Independent NodD Supports Nitrogen‐Fixing Symbioses With Legumes
Authors: Haskett Timothy L. , Cooke Louise , Green Patrick , Poole Philip S.
Published: January 2025

Rhizobia and legumes form a symbiotic relationship resulting in the formation of root structures known as nodules, where bacteria fix nitrogen. Legumes release flavonoids that are detected by the rhizobial nodulation (Nod) protein NodD, initiating the transcriptional activation of nod genes and subsequent synthesis of Nod Factors (NFs). NFs then induce various legume responses essential for this symbiosis. Although evidence suggests differential regulation of nodD expression and NF biosynthesis during symbiosis, the necessity of this regulation for the formation of nitrogen‐fixing nodules remains uncertain. Here, we demonstrate that deletion of the Rlv3841 NodD regulatory domain results in a constitutively active protein (NodDFI) capable of activating NF biosynthesis gene expression without the presence of flavonoids. Optimised constitutive expression of nodDFI or nodD3 in nodD null mutants led to wild‐type levels of nodulation and nitrogen fixation in pea and M. truncatula, respectively, indicating that flavonoid‐regulated nodD expression is not essential for supporting symbiosis. These findings illustrate that transcriptional control of flavonoid‐independent NodD regulators can be employed to drive NF biosynthesis, which holds potential for engineering symbiosis between rhizobia and cereals equipped with reconstituted NF receptors.
Systematic review on flexi‐schooling of autistic students
Authors: Richter Mechthild , Nishnik Julian , Borrmann Alina , Grummt Marek , Lindmeier Christian
Published: January 2025

Flexi‐schooling, an approach involving at least some instruction both at home and at school, has potential to adapt education to meet the needs of autistic students while also providing in‐person school benefits. This systematic international literature review of flexi‐schooling for autistic students aims to understand the advantages and disadvantages of this practice, why flexi‐schooling is chosen and the factors for a successful implementation. Eight hundred and fifty‐five studies were screened, of which eight met the search criteria and were analysed using thematic analysis. Flexi‐schooling is seen as a way to provide autistic students with an education that is constructed to meet individual needs and is flexible enough to address changes. Nevertheless, it can also be a challenging process that requires commitment, trust and additional effort from parents and teachers and may face various barriers. Flexi‐schooling can be difficult to implement due to power imbalances between school and home and a lack of communication and cooperation. Flexi‐schooling is an idea that has not yet been widely implemented in practice, and there is little information available about how it is put into action. Although it is rarely a first choice, it is often considered as a positive solution to a challenging and constantly changing situation.
Microbial Communities in Agave Fermentations Vary by Local Biogeographic Regions
Authors: Jara‐Servin Angélica , Alcaraz Luis D. , Juarez‐Serrano Sabino I. , Espinosa‐Jaime Aarón , Barajas Ivan , Morales Lucia , DeLuna Alexander , Hernández‐López Antonio , Mancera Eugenio
Published: January 2025

The production of traditional agave spirits in Mexico, such as mezcal, involves a process that uses environmental microorganisms to ferment the cooked must from agave plants. By analysing these microorganisms, researchers can understand the dynamics of microbial communities at the interface of natural and human‐associated environments. This study involved 16S and ITS amplicon sequencing of 99 fermentation tanks from 42 distilleries across Mexico. The Agave species used, production methods, climatic conditions and biogeographic characteristics varied significantly among sites. However, certain taxa were found in most fermentations, indicating a core group of microorganisms common to these communities. The primary variable consistently associated with the composition of both bacterial and fungal communities was the distillery, suggesting that local production practices and site‐specific attributes influence the microbiomes. The fermentation stage, climate and producing region also affected community composition but only for prokaryotes. Analysis of multiple tanks within three distilleries showed taxa enriched in specific fermentation stages or agave species. This research provides a detailed analysis of the microbiome of agave fermentations, offering important knowledge for its management and conservation.
The Predictive Ability of Taxable Income for Future Performance: The Impact of High Tax Planning*
Authors: Chen Yong Qiang , Niu Flora , Zeng Tao
Published: January 2025

This research examines whether high tax planning affects the predictive ability of taxable income for firms' future operating performance. Using US‐listed firms for the period 1988 to 2016, this study finds that high tax planning reduces the ability of taxable income to predict future performance, measured as 1‐, 2‐, and 3‐year‐ahead operating cash flows. It also shows that high tax planning decreases the incremental predictive value of taxable income for future performance beyond book income and operating cash flows. This study contributes to the existing literature on the informative nature of taxable income and enhances our understanding of how tax planning affects the information content of taxable income, particularly its predictive ability for firms' future performance. These findings suggest that, when using taxable income to predict future performance, financial statement users should consider the level of aggressiveness in firms' tax planning activities.
Words to live by: Using medic impressions to identify the need for prehospital lifesaving interventions
Authors: Weidman Aaron C. , Sedor‐Schiffhauer Zach , Zikmund Chase , Salcido David D. , Guyette Francis X. , Weiss Leonard S. , Poropatich Ronald K. , Pinsky Michael R.
Published: January 2025

Background

Prehospital emergencies require providers to rapidly identify patients’ medical condition and determine treatment needs. We tested whether medics’ initial, written impressions of patient condition contain information that can help identify patients who require prehospital lifesaving interventions (LSI) prior to or during transport.

Methods

We analyzed free‐text medic impressions of prehospital patients encountered at the scene of an accident or injury, using data from STAT MedEvac air medical transport service from 2012 to 2021. EMR records were used to identify LSIs performed for these patients in prehospital settings. Text was cleaned via natural language processing and transformed using term frequency–inverse document frequency. A gradient boosting machine learning (ML) model was used to predict individual patient need for prehospital LSI as well as seven LSI subcategories (e.g., airway interventions, blood transfusion, vasopressor medication).

Results

A total of 12,913 prehospital patients were included in our sample (mean age = 52.3 years, 63% men). We observed good ML performance in predicting overall LSI (area under the receiver operating curve = 0.793, 95% confidence interval = [0.776–0.810]; average precision = 0.670, 95% confidence interval = [0.643–0.695] vs. LSI rate of 0.282) and equivalent‐or‐better performance in predicting each LSI subcategory except for crystalloid fluid administration. We identified individual words within medic impressions that portended high (e.g., unresponsive, hemorrhage) or low (e.g., droop, rib) LSI rates. Calibration analysis showed that models could prioritize correct LSI identification (i.e., high sensitivity) or accurate triage (i.e., low false‐positive rate). Sensitivity analyses showed that model performance was robust when removing from medic impressions words that directly labeled an LSI.

Conclusions

ML based on free‐text medic impressions can help identify patient need for prehospital LSI. We discuss future work, such as applying similar methods to 9‐1‐1 call requests, and potential applications, including voice‐to‐text translation of medic impressions.
Drivers and concerns of adopting Artificial Intelligence in managerial accounting
Authors: Zhang Chao , Zhu Weidong , Dai Jun , Wu Yong , Chen Xulong
Published: January 2025

Recent advancements in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have attracted significant attention within the managerial accounting profession. With its transformative capabilities and complexity, AI presents numerous opportunities alongside notable challenges in its adoption. This paper examines the key factors influencing AI adoption in managerial accounting and highlights common concerns faced by companies during this process. Based on interviews with representatives from 41 companies, we identified a range of factors impacting AI adoption at both institutional and individual levels. These findings offer valuable insights into AI acceptance within the field of managerial accounting.
Wolf's Isotopic Response: Acquired Arteriovenous Haemangioma Following Oral Herpes Simplex Virus Infection
Authors: Tran Vanessa , Morgan Vanessa , Scardamaglia Laura
Published: January 2025

Cutaneous arteriovenous haemangioma (AVH) is a rare benign vascular lesion, which typically occurs on the head and neck. Its aetiology is unclear but thrombosis, trauma, infection or endocrine triggers have been proposed. We report the case of a 64‐year‐old female presenting with acquired AVH of the upper lip following oral herpes simplex virus infection. This is the first documented occurrence of AVH as a post‐herpetic isotopic response (PHIR).
Sick Day Management Plans for Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander Peoples With Chronic Kidney Disease on the Cape York Peninsula of Australia: Health Workers' Perspectives
Authors: Calleja Luke , Glass Beverley , Taylor Selina , Neville Kisha , Brown Leanne , Miller Andrea , Cairns Alice
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to explore the perspectives of healthcare professionals on the utility of sick day management plans for people with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in remote communities and collaboratively design a sick day management plan resource.

Design

This qualitative study utilised two phases of data collection: preliminary observational data and semi‐structured interviews. The research design and analysis were guided by the normalisation process theory (NPT) framework, tailored for complex interventions in healthcare.

Setting

Three First Nations communities and one remote mining community in Cape York, Australia.

Participants

In‐person semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 23 primary healthcare workers; 40% identified as Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander.

Results

The study identified three themes relating to feasibility of implementation: (1) resource coherence and readability, (2) suitability for integration into the care model and (3) safety and risk associated with sick day management plans. Iterative development of resources followed, incorporating feedback from the participants. Recommendations emerged for enhanced readability and coherence, including further co‐design with individual communities and consumers, content simplification, incorporation of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander artwork and language and a flow chart structure.

Conclusion

The study underscores the importance of culturally sensitive resource design and the active involvement of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander communities in healthcare improvement. Future research should explore cost‐effective methods for personalised sick day management plans.
Language proficiency and cultural intelligence: A meta‐analysis based on conservation of resources theory and the overt‐covert model of culture
Authors: Ng Kok Yee , Rockstuhl Thomas , Ang Soon
Published: January 2025

Research on language proficiency and cultural intelligence (CQ) has developed somewhat independently, resulting in a partial understanding of the personal resources required to facilitate job performance and adaptation in a foreign culture. Our meta‐analysis synthesizes the two constructs by drawing on the overt‐covert model of culture and the conservation of resources (COR) theory. Specifically, we propose that language proficiency and CQ complement each other by overcoming resource losses arising from overt (i.e., explicit language differences) and covert (i.e., implicit rules) cultural differences, respectively. We further propose that the host‐country communication context (i.e., higher vs. lower context dependence) moderates the effects of language proficiency and CQ. Meta‐analytic results based on 355 field samples (N = 128,358) support our hypotheses and show that (1) both language proficiency and CQ are positively related to job performance and cultural adaptation, (2) the effects of language proficiency are accentuated in cultures with lower communication‐context dependence, while (3) the effects of CQ are accentuated in cultures with higher communication‐context dependence. We discuss the implications of these findings for future research and practice.
When Does Corporate Social Responsibility Backfire? Intentional Crises and the Insurance Value of CSR
Authors: Zhang Danni , Dong Yusen , Liu Chunlin
Published: January 2025

Drawing on attribution theory and expectancy violation theory, this study investigates the effect of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on stock market reactions in the context of intentional crises, during which stakeholders are likely to attribute crisis responsibility to the focal firm. Using a sample of Chinese listed firms from 2012 to 2022, we find that in the context of an intentional crisis, the stock market reacts more negatively to firms with higher prior CSR performance. Two contingency factors (i.e., media attention and state ownership) strengthen this negative relationship. This study contributes to the CSR literature by broadening knowledge of the insurance‐like effects of CSR and by identifying a “boomerang effect” of CSR in the context of intentional crises.
Comparing open and video endoscopic lymphadenectomy for penile cancer: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective studies
Authors: Suartz Caio Vinícius , de Lima Richard Dobrucki , Abud Luiza Rafih , Brito Pedro Henrique Souza , Galhardo Ketlyn Assunção , Talizin Thalita Bento , Salazar André Lopes , Korkes Fernando , Guglielmetti Giuliano , de Cássio Zequi Stênio , Ribeiro‐Filho Leopoldo Alves , Toren Paul , Lodde Michele
Published: January 2025

Objective

To conduct the first meta‐analysis using only prospective studies to evaluate whether video endoscopic inguinal lymphadenectomy (VEIL) offers advantages in perioperative outcomes compared to open IL (OIL) in patients with penile cancer.

Methods

A systematic review with meta‐analysis was conducted across multiple databases, including Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), the Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE), Excerpta Medica dataBASE (EMBASE), Latin America and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Scopus, Web of Science, and several trial registries up to June 2024. Only randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and prospective cohort studies were included. Data extraction focused on operative time, perioperative complications, drainage time, hospital stay, number of nodes retrieved and oncological outcomes.

Results

Four prospective studies, including three RCTs and one non‐randomised study, were included in the analysis, totalling 95 patients and 174 operated limbs. VEIL demonstrated significantly fewer wound infections (P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.01–0.18; I2 = 0), skin necrosis (P = 0.002; 95% CI 0.04–0.49; I2 = 0), and lymphoedema (P = 0.05; 95% CI 0.09–0.99; I2 = 27%) compared to OIL. The VEIL group also had a shorter drainage period (P = 0.001; mean difference [MD] –1.94, 95% CI −3.15 to −0.74) and hospital stay (P < 0.01; MD –5.48, 95% CI −6.34 to −4.62). Pain intensity and operative time were lower in the VEIL group, contributing to fewer postoperative complications overall. Oncological outcomes showed no significant differences between the groups.

Conclusion

The meta‐analysis indicates that VEIL offers significant advantages over OIL in terms of reducing wound infections, skin necrosis, and lymphoedema, leading to shorter hospital stays and overall improved perioperative outcomes. However, the limited sample of 95 patients across four studies underscores the need for further randomised trials and a cautious interpretation of the results, which currently support the use of VEIL in managing patients with penile cancer.
Fluid intake and recurrence and progression risk of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer
Authors: Beeren Ivy , Meijer Hilde , van der Heijden Antoine G. , Aben Katja K.H. , Witjes J. Alfred , Kiemeney Lambertus A.L.M. , Vrieling Alina
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the association of pre‐ and post‐diagnosis fluid intake with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer (NMIBC) recurrence and progression risk.

Patients and Methods

Data were used from the multicentre prospective cohort study UroLife. Participants reported pre‐diagnosis fluid intake at 6 weeks (food frequency questionnaire [FFQ]) (n = 1322) and post‐diagnosis fluid intake at 3 and 15 months (FFQ and 4‐day 24‐h fluid diaries) (n = 1275) after diagnosis. Multivariable proportional hazard regression models were used to obtain hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for the association of fluid intake with risk of first and multiple recurrence(s) and progression.

Results

During a median overall follow‐up of 4.6 years, 474 patients had one or more recurrence and 142 had progression. A higher first recurrence risk was observed for patients with the highest pre‐diagnosis fluid intakes (≥2300 vs 1500–1900 mL/day: HR 1.38, 95% CI 1.07–1.79), but not for those with the highest post‐diagnosis fluid intakes. HRs were similar for multiple recurrence risk. For progression, each 150 mL/day increase in both pre‐ and post‐diagnosis fluid intake was consistently associated with an increased risk (post‐diagnosis [3 months] FFQ‐based: HR 1.05, 95% CI 1.01–1.09 and diary‐based: HR 1.04, 95% CI 0.99–1.09).

Conclusion

High fluid intakes may be associated with higher NMIBC recurrence and especially progression risk. These findings lack a clear explanation but may be related to extensive expansion of the bladder wall or urinary symptoms. Further research is warranted. Meanwhile, these findings do not support recommending high(er) fluid intakes to patients with NMIBC to decrease their recurrence or progression risk.
N‐Substituted‐5‐ [(2,5‐Dihydroxybenzyl)amino]salicylamides as Lavendustin Analogs: Antiproliferative Activity, COMPARE Analyses, Mechanistic, Docking, ADMET and Toxicity Studies
Authors: Abdu‐Allah Hajjaj H. M. , El‐Nagar Mohamed K. S. , Qayed Wesam S. , Salem Ola I. A. , Kafafy Abdel‐Hamid N. , El‐Awady Raafat , Nicola Mariam A.
Published: January 2025

Target cyclooxygenase 2 (COX‐2) and 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LOX) inhibitors; 5‐([2,5‐Dihydroxybenzyl]amino)salicylamides (Compounds 1–11) were examined for potential anticancer activity, with a trial to assess the underlying possible mechanisms. Compounds were assessed at a single dose against 60 cancer cell lines panel and those with the highest activity were tested in the five‐dose assay. COMPARE analysis was conducted to explore potential mechanisms underlying their biological activity. In vitro epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitory activity was performed, as well as cell cycle and apoptosis assays, in addition to molecular docking to rationalize the potential of these compounds as potent EGFR inhibitors. The compounds revealed broad‐spectrum anticancer activity against most cancer cell lines, particularly those of leukemia. Compound 9 showed the maximum growth inhibition (99.65%) against leukemia HL‐60 (TB) cell line. Compound 5 produced the uppermost cytotoxic activity (62.28%) against non‐small cell lung cancer cell line (NCI‐H522), and the most potent antiproliferative and cytotoxic activities against the same cell line in the five‐dose assay. Flow cytometry of cell cycle distribution on NCI‐H522 showed arrest of cells at different phases of the cycle by Compounds 4, 5, 9–11. These compounds induced apoptosis in NCI‐H522, particularly Compounds 4 and 5. They showed a remarkable in vitro EGFR inhibitory activity that was comparable to erlotinib, and a predicted ADME pharmacokinetic profile. In conclusion, the N‐substituted aminosalicylamides exhibited considerable anticancer activity. The pattern of N‐substitution is important in their activity. The compounds exhibited polypharmacology; one of the targets is the EGFR, as supported by molecular docking.
Effect of Nonsurgical Mechanical Debridement With or Without Chlorhexidine Formulations in the Treatment of Peri‐Implant Mucositis. A Randomized Placebo‐Controlled Clinical Trial
Authors: Isola Gaetano , Polizzi Alessandro , Santagati Maria , Alibrandi Angela , Iorio‐Siciliano Vincenzo , Ramaglia Luca
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the treatment of peri‐implant mucositis (PM) using a nonsurgical submarginal peri‐implant instrumentation (NSPI) with or without chlorhexidine (CHX) solutions.

Methods

Fifty‐six patients (28 per group) were randomly assigned to the test (NSPI + 0.12% mouthwash and subgingival CHX irrigation plus tongue brushing with 1% CHX gel) or the control group (NSPI + placebo mouthwash and subgingival placebo irrigation plus tongue brushing with placebo gel). At baseline, 1, 3, 6 months, bleeding on probing (BOP), probing pocket depth (PPD), modified gingival index (mGI), modified plaque index (mPlI), full‐mouth plaque score (FMPS), full‐mouth bleeding score (FMBS), and the proportions of Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Treponema denticola were recorded. The BOP reduction was set as a primary outcome. Data were analyzed to assess BOP reduction at a 6‐month follow‐up and to identify significant predictors of implant‐site BOP through mixed generalized linear regression.

Results

After 6 months in both groups, a significant reduction of BOP, PD, mPlI, mGI, FMBS, and FMPS was noted (p < 0.05). However, at 6 months, the test group was more effective than the controls in reducing median BOP (∆values control/test: 39.3% [95% CI 37.4–42.3] vs. 48.7 [95% CI 46.5–51.2], p = 0.044), as well as mPlI (p = 0.041) and the proportion of Treponema denticola (p = 0.039). Moreover, the implant‐sites BOP reduction was significantly influenced by test treatment (p < 0.001), history of periodontitis (p = 0.003), and a high number of cigarettes/day (p = 0.002), the proportion of Porphyromonas gingivalis (p = 0.021) and Tannerella forsythia (p = 0.032).

Conclusions

NSPI + CHX showed better results compared to placebo in implant‐sites BOP reduction. The high number of cigarettes/day and the proportion of Porphyromonas gingivalis and T. forsythia negatively influenced the BOP reduction in PM‐treated patients.
Long‐Term Clinical Outcomes and Risk Indicator Analyses of Narrow‐Diameter Implants in the Posterior Jaw: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 10 to 27 Years
Authors: Zhu Jingxian , Sun Wei , Yang Shanyi , Du Zhili , Yang Rui , Shi Bin , Ji Wei
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To assess the long‐term clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction with narrow‐diameter implants (NDIs) in the posterior jaws and to identify the risk indicators for NDI failure.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study reviewed 479 patients with 666 NDIs (diameter ≤ 3.5 mm) ‐supported fixed prostheses in posterior jaws, with a minimum 10‐year follow‐up. Implant survival, success, complications, demographics, and implantation characteristics were collected. Risk indicators for posterior NDI failure were analyzed using multilevel Cox regression analyses with mixed effects. Patient satisfaction and oral health impact profile (OHIP) were surveyed in a random 10% sample.

Results

Over a mean follow‐up of 14.0 ± 3.6 years, implant survival was 95.9% at the implant level and 94.6% at the patient level. Success rates were 93.5% at the implant level and 91.6% at the patient level. Multilevel Cox regression analysis identified an implant length of 10 mm or less (p = 0.001) and the use of single crowns (p = 0.005) as significant risk indicators for posterior NDI failure. Patients showed high satisfaction (4.54/5) with posterior NDIs, and the mean OHIP score of 1.15 reflected an acceptable level of oral health.

Conclusion

NDIs in the posterior jaws demonstrated robust long‐term success and high patient satisfaction. An implant length of 10 mm or less and the use of single crowns are potential risk indicators for posterior NDI failure.

Trial Registration

Chinese Clinical Trial Registry: ChiCTR2200062337 on 2022/08/02
The New‐Meaning Objection: A Reply to Nicolò D'Agruma
Authors: Devitt Michael , Porot Nicolas
Published: January 2025

In our paper, “The reference of proper names” (2018), we raised and rebutted the “New‐Meaning” objection to our methodology. Our rebuttal rested on theoretical considerations and experimental results. In “Do the Gödel vignettes involve a new descriptivist meaning?”, Nicolò D'Agruma provides an interesting argument against our theoretical considerations (but does not address the experimental evidence). Our present paper argues against D'Agruma. So, our original rebuttal of the objection still stands. We offer further evidence against the objection.
Digital Industry Agglomeration and Export Product Diversification: Evidence from Chinese Firms
Authors: Zhan Jinyong , Wang Xinrui , Li Qian , Zhao Jiazhang
Published: January 2025

The rapid development of digital industries such as artificial intelligence and big data has fundamentally transformed production, providing new opportunities for the diversification of firms. Drawing on data from the China Customs Database and the Annual Survey of Industrial Firms for 2003–2013, we employed a panel fixed effects model to examine the impact of digital industry agglomeration on firms' export product diversification. The findings revealed that, holding other conditions constant, a one‐unit increase in digital industry agglomeration resulted in a significant 2.34 percent rise in export scope and a significant decrease by 0.58 percent in export concentration. Firms in digitally advanced cities and capital‐intensive industries were more influenced by digital industry agglomeration in export diversification. Mechanism analysis reveals that digital industry agglomeration fostered export product diversification through innovation stimulation, information dissemination, and efficiency enhancement. Innovation was evidenced by increases in urban innovation indices and the emergence of new export products. Information dissemination boosted wholesale and retail sales, helping firms to expand export destinations. Efficiency enhancement was reflected in narrowing management efficiency gaps among firms.
The Spillover Effects of International Co‐production in the Chinese Film Industry
Authors: Yu Feng , Li Ning , Yan Jing , Zhang Yan
Published: January 2025

This study examines the spillover effects of international film co‐production using data on films released in the Chinese mainland from 2006 to 2018. The results indicate that local film producers can enhance their product performance by leveraging the expertise and practices of more sophisticated foreign firms during international co‐productions. Heterogeneous effects were observed related to budget size, firm size, ownership structure, and cultural distance. These spillover effects can occur through two mechanisms: the demonstration effect (the adoption of more advanced technology) and the labor mobility effect (actors or directors upgrading their skills). An instrumental variable approach is employed to address endogeneity concerns. This study contributes to the spillover effects of international co‐production, which has been neglected in the literature. Its empirical findings suggest that engaging in international co‐production can potentially boost productivity for firms from developing countries. Host country governments may consider offering preferential policies to promote international co‐production as an alternative to foreign direct investment (FDI), thereby fostering positive spillover effects.