bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transients obscured by dusty discs
Authors: Kochanek C S
Published: February 2024

Dust absorption is invoked in a number of contexts for hiding a star that has survived some sort of transient event from view. Dust formed in a transient is expanding away from the star and, in spherical models, the mass and energy budgets implied by a high optical depth at late times make such models untenable. Concentrating the dust in a disc or torus can in principle hide a source from an equatorial observer using less mass and so delay this problem. However, using axisymmetric dust radiation transfer models with a range of equatorial dust concentrations, we find that this is quite difficult to achieve in practice. The polar optical depth must be either low or high to avoid scattering optical photons to equatorial observers. Most of the emission remains at wavelengths easily observed by JWST. The equatorial brightness can be significantly suppressed for very discy configurations with little polar optical depth – but only by a factor of ∼2 for polar optical depths of τp = 1 and ∼5 for τp = 0.1 even for a very high optical depth disc (τe = 1000) viewed edge-on. It is particularly difficult to hide a source with silicate dusts because the absorption feature near 10 µm frequently leads to the emission being concentrated just bluewards of the feature, near 8 µm.
The current status and future development of high-temperature conventional superconductivity
Authors: Eremets Mikhail I
Published: February 2024

The robust evidence and reproducibility of high-temperature superconductivity in hydrogen-rich materials under challenging experimental conditions of megabar pressures is presented.
Thinking about default enrollment lowers vaccination intentions and public support in G7 countries
Authors: Banerjee Sanchayan , John Peter , Nyhan Brendan , Hunter Andrew , Koenig Richard , Lee-Whiting Blake , Loewen Peter John , McAndrews John , Savani Manu M
Published: February 2024

Policymakers often face a conundrum between being transparent about policies and ensuring that those policies are effective. This challenge is particularly relevant for behavioral nudges, which are not usually disclosed. Rather than avoiding transparency, we suggest that policymakers encourage citizens to reflect on nudges to help them understand their own views and align those views with their behaviors. Using data from an online survey experiment with 24,303 respondents in G7 countries, we examine the impact of reflection on a hypothetical default nudge policy for COVID-19 booster appointments. Contrary to expectations, participants say they would be less likely to get the booster when automatically enrolled compared with a control condition. Similarly, encouraging citizens to think about the status quo (baseline) policy also reduces intentions for boosters. These interventions have no effect on approval of the policy. Further, encouraging people to think about automatic enrollment decreases approval of the policy and further decreases their intentions to get vaccinated. These findings suggest that reflection on a nudge can increase backlash from a nudge and also elicit policy disapproval, thereby aligning policy support with behavioral intentions.
Theory of CP angle measurements
Authors: Soni Amarjit
Published: February 2024

In the early 1980s Sanda-san and collaborators wrote key papers on the direct and clean determination of the unitarity angle ϕ1(β). This motivated many of us to analogously come up with ways for direct and clean determinations of the other two unitarity angles, ϕ2(α) and ϕ3(γ). This paper describes the current status of these direct determinations as well as our expectations for when Belle-II has 50 ab−1 of luminosity and LHCb is upgraded. In particular, it is emphasized that, for direct determination of ϕ3, Belle-II should be able to handle final states in D0 or $\bar{D}^0$ Dalitz decays, which contain one π0 (which are difficult for LHCb); then they may make further inroads in improving the accuracy of the ϕ3 determination. Early lattice inputs for constraining the unitarity triangle (UT) are briefly recalled. Its crucial role in supporting the Kobayashi–Maskawa theory of CP violation is emphasized. Over the years significant progress has been made in lattice methods and the latest constraints from these for the UT will be discussed, as well as the compatibility with current direct determinations and some comments on the future outlook.
Macrophage exosomes modified by miR-365-2-5p promoted osteoblast osteogenic differentiation by targeting OLFML1
Authors: Hou Caiyao , Zhang Yujue , Lv Zhaoyong , Luan Yurun , Li Jun , Meng Chunxiu , Liu Kun , Luo Xin , Chen Liyu , Liu Fengzhen
Published: February 2024

In the bone immune microenvironment, immune cells can regulate osteoblasts through a complex communication network. Macrophages play a central role in mediating immune osteogenesis, exosomes derived from them have osteogenic regulation and can be used as carriers in bone tissue engineering. However, there are problems with exosomal therapy alone, such as poor targeting, and the content of loaded molecules cannot reach the therapeutic concentration. In this study, macrophage-derived exosomes modified with miR-365-2-5p were developed to accelerate bone healing. MC3T3-E1 cells were incubated with the culture supernatants of M0, M1 and M2 macrophages, and it was found that the culture medium of M2 macrophages had the most significant effects in contributing to osteogenesis. High-throughput sequencing identified that miR-365-2-5p was significantly expressed in exosomes derived from M2 macrophages. We incubated MC3T3-E1 with exosomes overexpressing or knocking down miR-365-2-5p to examine the biological function of exosome miR-365-2-5p on MC3T3-E1 differentiation. These findings suggested that miR-365-2-5p secreted by exosomes increased the osteogenesis of MC3T3-E1. Moreover, miR-365-2-5p had a direct influence over osteogenesis for MC3T3-E1. Sequencing analysis combined with dual luciferase detection indicated that miR-365-2-5p binded to the 3'-UTR of OLFML1. In summary, exosomes secreted by M2 macrophages targeted OLFML1 through miR-365-2-5p to facilitate osteogenesis.
Remote monitoring of patients with rheumatoid arthritis in a low disease activity state: a mixed methods evaluation across six hospitals in London, UK
Authors: Watson Kathryn , Sheldon Helen , Pallari Elena , Arumalla Nikita , Olive Rachel R , Boiko Olga , Aznar Camille , Adams Emma-Jayne , Bosworth Ailsa , Demetriou Len , Martin Melanie , Palmer Mary-Ann , Sinclair Polly , Smith Emily J , Sevdalis Nick , Walker Andrew , Garrood Toby
Published: February 2024

Objectives

This study evaluated the scale-up of a remote monitoring service, capturing monthly Rheumatoid Arthritis Impact of Disease scores and patient-generated text messages, for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA; in remission or with low disease activity) attending routine outpatient clinics across six hospitals. We explored patients and staff experiences and implementation outcomes.

Methods

A pragmatic, mixed methods approach was used, with active patient involvement throughout. We undertook a rapid review, analysed service-level data, and conducted a patient survey and patient and staff interviews, informed by the Capability, Opportunity, Motivation, Behaviour (COM-B) and Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, Sustainment (EPIS) theoretical frameworks.

Results

The review included 37 articles, covering themes of patient and clinician acceptability, engagement, feasibility and clinical impact. Service-level data (n = 202) showed high levels of patient engagement with the service. The patient survey (n = 155) showed patients felt the service was easy to use, had confidence in it and felt it improved access to care. Patient interview (n = 22) findings mirrored those of the survey. Motivating factors included increased responsiveness and ease of contact with clinical teams. Views from staff interviews (n = 16) were more mixed. Some implementation barriers were specific to roll-out sites. Prioritization of staff needs was emphasized.

Conclusion

Patients were positive about the service and engagement was high. Staff views and engagement were more mixed. Results suggest that equal levels of patient and staff engagement are required for sustainability. These findings further our understanding of the implementation challenges to scaling remote monitoring interventions for patients with rheumatoid arthritis in routine care settings.
Therapeutic strategies and outcomes in neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus: an international multicentre retrospective study
Authors: Bortoluzzi Alessandra , Fanouriakis Antonis , Silvagni Ettore , Appenzeller Simone , Carli Linda , Carrara Greta , Cauli Alberto , Conti Fabrizio , Costallat Lilian Teresa Lavras , De Marchi Ginevra , Doria Andrea , Fredi Micaela , Franceschini Franco , Garaffoni Carlo , Hanly John G , Mosca Marta , Murphy Elana , Piga Matteo , Quartuccio Luca , Scirè Carlo Alberto , Tomietto Paola , Truglia Simona , Zanetti Anna , Zen Margherita , Bertsias George , Govoni Marcello
Published: February 2024

Objectives

The management of neuropsychiatric systemic lupus erythematosus (NPSLE) poses considerable challenges due to limited clinical trials. Therapeutic decisions are customized based on suspected pathogenic mechanisms and symptoms severity. This study aimed to investigate therapeutic strategies and disease outcome for patients with NPSLE experiencing their first neuropsychiatric (NP) manifestation.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study defined NP events according to the American College of Rheumatology case definition, categorizing them into three clusters: central/diffuse, central/focal and peripheral. Clinical judgment and a validated attribution algorithm were used for NP event attribution. Data included demographic variables, SLE disease activity index, cumulative organ damage, and NP manifestation treatments. The clinical outcome of all NP events was determined by a physician seven-point Likert scale. Predictors of clinical improvement/resolution were investigated in a multivariable logistic regression analysis.

Results

The analysis included 350 events. Immunosuppressants and corticosteroids were more frequently initiated/escalated for SLE-attributed central diffuse or focal NP manifestations. At 12 months of follow-up, 64% of patients showed a clinical improvement in NP manifestations. Focal central events and SLE-attributed manifestations correlated with higher rates of clinical improvement. Patients with NP manifestations attributed to SLE according to clinical judgment and treated with immunosuppressants had a significantly higher probability of achieving clinical response (OR 2.55, 95%CI 1.06–6.41, P = 0.04). Age at diagnosis and focal central events emerged as additional response predictors.

Conclusion

NP manifestations attributed to SLE by clinical judgment and treated with immunosuppressants demonstrated improved 12-month outcomes. This underscores the importance of accurate attribution and timely diagnosis of NPSLE.
The Corporate ‘Failure to Prevent’ Principle in the UK Bribery Act 2010: Philosophical Foundations of Economic Crime
Authors: Korotana Shabir
Published: February 2024

This article discusses the new corporate offence of corporate ‘failure to prevent’ bribery found in section 7(1) of the UK Bribery Act 2010 and the nature of consequential corporate liability. It discusses the nature of corporate vicarious liability, strict liability, and the identification doctrine and identifies the philosophical foundations of the principle of corporate failure to prevent bribery. The philosophical foundation of corporate liability emanating from the principle of the corporate offence is not based on the principles of corporate vicarious liability, strict liability or the identification doctrine. Liability attaches directly to the corporation because the rationale behind the legislation is to eliminate the culture of corporate bribery both domestically and extra-territorially. Section 7(2) affords a corporation a legal defence against its failure to prevent bribery if it can demonstrate that it had implemented adequate procedures to prevent individuals associated with it from undertaking such behaviour.
The Right to Citizenship of Rohingya Children of Bangladeshi Descent Under International Human Rights Law
Authors: Sabuj Mohammad
Published: February 2024

Since the outbreak of violence and persecution against Rohingyas in 2017 they have been fleeing Myanmar and taking refuge in Bangladesh. A significant number of them are married to a Bangladeshi citizen and their children are entitled to Bangladeshi citizenship by descent. However, these Rohingya children are not being registered as Bangladeshi citizen. As a result, a significant number of Rohingya children have become stateless. As Bangladesh is not a party to the statelessness conventions statelessness of these Rohingya children cannot be legally addressed under these conventions. This article explores the citizenship rights of these Rohingya children outside of these conventions. It argues that, although Bangladesh is not a party to the statelessness conventions it is a party to the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) and other international human rights treaties under which it is obliged to grant citizenship status to the Rohingya children born to a Bangladeshi parent.
Empowering Faculty to Incorporate Large Language Models in Nursing Education Using a Delegation Framework
Authors: Blomquist Jason , Llewellyn Sarah , Alderden Jenny , Connor Kelley
Published: February 2024

Large language models (LLMs) can support nursing education but pose questions of validity, reliability, and ethical use. This article proposes using the five rights of nursing delegation framework by the National Council of State Boards of Nursing to teach nursing students about the appropriate use of LLMs in health care and nursing education. Nursing faculty can teach students how to assess the validity and reliability of the information provided by LLMs, document its use, and reference and cite information appropriately.
“I Don't Believe That One”: A Qualitative Study of Undetectable = Untransmittable Views Among Older Adults Living With HIV in South Carolina
Authors: Addo Prince Nii Ossah , Brown Monique J. , Nkwonta Chigozie A. , Kaur Amandeep , James Titilayo , Qiao Shan
Published: February 2024

Undetectable = Untransmittable (U = U) means that people with HIV who achieve and maintain an undetectable viral load have effectively zero risk of sexually transmitting the virus to others. However, research on how U = U is perceived by older adults living with HIV (OAH) is currently lacking. This study explored U = U views among OAH. From October 2019 to February 2020, we conducted open-ended interviews with 24 OAH recruited at an HIV clinic in South Carolina. Interviews were audio-recorded and transcribed. We employed thematic analysis in this study. Three themes emerged from the analysis: (a) Conflicting beliefs in U = U; (b) Use condoms regardless; and (c) Fear of HIV reinfection. Despite strong scientific evidence supporting U = U, some OAH do not believe in U = U. This lack of belief could deprive OAH of the benefits U = U offers. Therefore, it is vital to educate OAH about U = U to enhance their understanding and belief in U = U.
Ultrasonic Fasciotomy for the Treatment of Chronic Plantar Fasciopathy: A Prospective Study
Authors: Kruse Ryan C. , Volfson Elena
Published: February 2024

Objective:

To evaluate the long-term efficacy and safety of an ultrasonic fasciotomy for plantar fasciopathy.

Design:

Prospective observational study.

Setting:

Tertiary care academic medical center.

Participants:

Patients with chronic plantar fasciopathy refractory to standard, conservative treatments were included in this study.

Interventions:

Patients underwent ultrasonic fasciotomy of the plantar fascia.

Main Outcome Measures:

The primary outcome measures were change in visual analog scale at 12 and 52 weeks post-procedure compared with baseline as well as patients' self-reported satisfaction with the procedure.

Results:

Sixty-seven patients were included. There was a significant improvement in visual analog scale at all follow-up time points, with an average overall improvement of 5.87 (P < 0.0001). 94% of patients reported satisfaction with the outcomes of their procedure at 12 and 52 weeks. No procedural complications were seen.

Conclusions:

This study demonstrates that an ultrasonic fasciotomy is a safe and effective treatment option for chronic plantar fasciopathy, with continued symptom improvement and a high degree of patient satisfaction up to 52 weeks post-procedure.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings suggest that an ultrasonic fasciotomy should be considered for patients with chronic plantar fasciopathy refractory to conservative treatments.
Using Self-Reported Sexual Positioning as an Indicator for Rectal Chlamydia and Gonorrhea Screening Among Men Who Have Sex With Men in China: A Missed Opportunity
Authors: Weng Rong-Xing , Ning Ning , Luo Yi-Ting , Zhang Chun-Lai , Wen Li-Zhang , Ye Jian-Bin , Li Jing , Chen Xiang-Sheng , Cai Yu-Mao
Published: February 2024

Background

Rectal Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) and Neisseria gonorrhoeae (NG) infections among men who have sex with men (MSM) are escalating public health concerns. This study aimed to explore (1) the reliability of self-reported sexual positioning as an indicator for rectal CT and NG screening, and (2) factors associated with rectal CT and NG infections in Shenzhen, China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in 2 settings in Shenzhen, China, from April 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022. Data on sociodemographic characteristics, sexual behaviors, and basic CT knowledge were collected. Urine and self-collected rectal swabs were collected for CT and NG testing.

Results

In total, 195 MSM participated in the study, and 5.1% tested positive for urogenital CT, 29.2% for rectal CT, 1.0% for urogenital NG, and 8.2% for rectal NG. Among those who reported exclusively insertive anal sex, 69.2% of CT infections and 85.7% of NG infections would have remained undetected with urine testing alone. Risk factors for rectal CT infection included engaging in both insertive and receptive anal sex, with a significant association found for coinfection with rectal NG.

Conclusions

Self-reported sexual positioning was found to be an unreliable indicator for CT and NG screening, as a substantial proportion of infections would have remained undetected. The findings suggest that CT and NG screening in China should be offered to all MSM regardless of self-reported sexual positioning, and that the dual CT/NG testing is recommended.
The Relationship Between Insertive Oral and Anal Sex and Select Measures of the Composition of the Urethral Microbiota Among Men Who Have Sex With Men
Authors: Chambers Laura C. , Tapia Kenneth A. , Srinivasan Sujatha , Proll Sean , Morgan Jennifer L. , Hoffman Noah G. , Lowens M. Sylvan , Glick Sara N. , Khosropour Christine M. , Golden Matthew R. , Hughes James P. , Manhart Lisa E. , Fredricks David N.
Published: February 2024

Background

Sexual behavior may influence the composition of the male urethral microbiota, but this hypothesis has not been tested in longitudinal studies of men who have sex with men (MSM).

Methods

From December 2014 to July 2018, we enrolled MSM with nongonococcal urethritis (NGU) attending a sexual health clinic. Men attended 5 in-clinic visits at 3-week intervals, collected weekly urine specimens at home, and reported daily antibiotics and sexual activity on weekly diaries. We applied broad-range 16S rRNA gene sequencing to urine. We used generalized estimating equations to estimate the association between urethral sexual exposures in the prior 7 days (insertive oral sex [IOS] only, condomless insertive anal intercourse [CIAI] only, IOS with CIAI [IOS + CIAI], or none) and Shannon index, number of species (observed, oral indicator, and rectal indicator), and specific taxa, adjusting for recent antibiotics, age, race/ethnicity, HIV, and preexposure prophylaxis.

Results

Ninety-six of 108 MSM with NGU attended ≥1 follow-up visit. They contributed 1140 person-weeks of behavioral data and 1006 urine specimens. Compared with those with no urethral sexual exposures, those with IOS only had higher Shannon index (P = 0.03) but similar number of species and presence of specific taxa considered, adjusting for confounders; the exception was an association with Haemophilus parainfluenzae. CIAI only was not associated with measured aspects of the urethral microbiota. IOS + CIAI was only associated with presence of H. parainfluenzae and Haemophilus.

Conclusions

Among MSM after NGU, IOS and CIAI did not seem to have a substantial influence on measured aspects of the composition of the urethral microbiota.
DEVELOPMENT AND INTERNAL-EXTERNAL VALIDATION OF THE ACCI-SOFA MODEL FOR PREDICTING IN-HOSPITAL MORTALITY OF PATIENTS WITH SEPSIS-3 IN THE ICU: A MULTICENTER RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Huang Yueyue , Gao Yifan , Quan Shichao , Pan Hao , Wang Ying , Dong Yihua , Ye Lianmin , Wu Minmin , Zhou Aiming , Ruan Xiangyuan , Wang Baoxin , Chen Jie , Zheng Chenfei , Xu Honglei , Lu Yilun , Pan Jingye
Published: February 2024

Objective: To achieve a better prediction of in-hospital mortality, the Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (SOFA) score needs to be adjusted and combined with comorbidities. This study aims to enhance the prediction of SOFA score for in-hospital mortality in patients with Sepsis-3. Methods: This study adjusted the maximum SOFA score within the first 3 days (Max Day3 SOFA) in relation to in-hospital mortality using logistic regression and incorporated the age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index (aCCI) as a continuous variable to build the age-adjusted Charlson Comorbidity Index-Sequential Organ Failure Assessment (aCCI-SOFA) model. The outcome was in-hospital mortality. We developed, internally validated, and externally validated the aCCI-SOFA model using cohorts of Sepsis-3 patients from the MIMIC-IV, MIMIC-III (CareVue), and the FAHWMU cohort. The predictive performance of the model was assessed through discrimination and calibration, which was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic and calibration curves, respectively. The overall predictive effect was evaluated using the Brier score. Measurements and main results: Compared with the Max Day3 SOFA, the aCCI-SOFA model showed significant improvement in area under the receiver operating characteristic with all cohorts: development cohort (0.81 vs 0.75, P < 0.001), internal validation cohort (0.81 vs 0.76, P < 0.001), MIMIC-III (CareVue) cohort (0.75 vs 0.68, P < 0.001), and FAHWMU cohort (0.72 vs 0.67, P = 0.001). In sensitivity analysis, it was suggested that the application of aCCI-SOFA in early nonseptic shock patients had greater clinical value, with significant differences compared with the original SOFA scores in all cohorts (P < 0.05). Conclusion: For septic patients in intensive care unit, the aCCI-SOFA model exhibited superior predictive performance. The application of aCCI-SOFA in early nonseptic shock patients had greater clinical value.
Beyond boundaries: investigating shared and divergent connectivity in the pre-/postcentral gyri and supplementary motor area
Authors: Alahmadi Adnan A.S.
Published: February 2024

Objective

This study aimed to comprehensively investigate the functional connectivity of key brain regions involved in motor and sensory functions, namely the precentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus and supplementary motor area (SMA). Using advanced MRI, the objective was to understand the neurophysiological integrative characterizations of these regions by examining their connectivity with eight distinct functional brain networks. The goal was to uncover their roles beyond conventional motor and sensory functions, contributing to a more holistic understanding of brain functioning.

Methods

The study involved 198 healthy volunteers, with the primary methodology being functional connectivity analysis using advanced MRI techniques. The bilateral precentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus and SMA served as seed regions, and their connectivity with eight distinct brain regional functional networks was investigated. This approach allowed for the exploration of synchronized activity between these critical brain areas, shedding light on their integrated functioning and relationships with other brain networks.

Results

The study revealed a nuanced landscape of functional connectivity for the precentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus and SMA with the main functional brain networks. Despite their high functional connectedness, these regions displayed diverse functional integrations with other networks, particularly in the salience, visual, cerebellar and language networks. Specific data and statistical significance were not provided in the abstract, but the results suggested unique and distinct roles for each brain area in sophisticated cognitive tasks beyond their conventional motor and sensory functions.

Conclusion

The study emphasized the multifaceted roles of the precentral gyrus, postcentral gyrus and SMA. Beyond their crucial involvement in motor and sensory functions, these regions exhibited varied functional integrations with different brain networks. The observed disparities, especially in the salience, visual, cerebellar and language networks, indicated a nuanced and specialized involvement of these regions in diverse cognitive functions. The study underscores the importance of considering the broader neurophysiological landscape to comprehend the intricate roles of these brain areas, contributing to ongoing efforts in unraveling the complexities of brain function.
A configuration analysis on knowledge transfer between projects: from horizontal and vertical perspectives
Authors: Zhou Qianwen , Deng Xiaopeng
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Despite the knowledge transfer between projects has received increasing attention from scholars, few scholars still conduct comprehensive research on inter-project knowledge transfer from both horizontal and vertical perspectives. Besides, knowledge transfer is affected by multiple antecedent conditions, and these factors should be combined for analysis. Therefore, this paper aims to explore the key factors influencing knowledge transfer between projects using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) method from both horizontal and vertical perspectives and how these factors combine to improve the effectiveness of knowledge transfer (EKT) between projects.

Design/methodology/approach

First, nine factors affecting knowledge transfer between projects were identified, which were from the four dimensions of subject, relationship, channel, and context, namely temporary nature (TN), time urgency (TU), transmit willingness (TW), receive willingness (RW), trust (TR), project-project transfer channels (PPC), project-enterprise transfer channels (PEC), organizational atmosphere (OA), and motivation system (MS). Then, the source of the samples was determined and the data from the respondents was collected for analysis. Following the operation steps of the fsQCA method, variable calibration, single condition necessity analysis, and configuration analysis were carried out. After that, the configurations of influencing factors were obtained and the robustness test was conducted.

Findings

The results of the fsQCA method show that there are five configurations that can obtain better EKT between projects. Configuration 3 (∼TN * ∼TU * TW * RW * TR * ∼PPC * PEC * MS) has the highest consistency, indicating that it has the highest degree of the explanatory variable subset. Configuration 1 (∼TN * ∼TU * TW * RW * PEC * OA * MS) has the highest coverage, meaning that this configuration can explain most cases. Also, the five configurations were divided into three types: vertical transfer, horizontal-vertical transfer, and channel-free transfer category.

Originality/value

Firstly, this study explores the key factors influencing knowledge transfer between projects from four dimensions, which presents the logical chain of influencing factors more clearly. Then, this study divided the five configurations obtained into three categories according to the transfer direction: vertical, horizontal-vertical, and channel-free transfer, which gives implications to focus on both horizontal knowledge transfer (HKT) and (VKT) when studying knowledge transfer between projects. Lastly, this study helps to realize the exploration of combined improvement strategies for EKT, thereby providing meaningful recommendations for enterprises and project teams to facilitate knowledge transfer between projects.
Linking environmental sustainability, social sustainability, corporate reputation and the business performance of energy companies: insights from an emerging market
Authors: Nagiah Ganesh Rao , Mohd Suki Norazah
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of environmental sustainability, social sustainability and corporate reputation on the business performance of energy companies operating in an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 400 managers in top and middle-level positions in energy companies located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia were collected through an online survey. These managers had a strong understanding of the operational aspects of the companies and possessed good knowledge of the company’s performance. The collected data were analyzed using multiple regression analysis to assess the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The findings reveal significant influences of corporate reputation, environmental sustainability and social sustainability on the business performance of energy companies operating in an emerging market. Notably, corporate reputation emerges as the primary predictor, underscoring the significance of emphasizing the fundamental aspects of companies such as superior products or services, effective management practices and investment quality. A strong reputation is essential for attracting investors, customers and other stakeholders by meeting their expectations for high-quality products or services. It serves as a crucial factor in establishing trust and credibility, which are vital for sustained success in the market.

Practical implications

Energy companies should proactively integrate corporate reputation into their operational strategies to enhance business performance. Furthermore, they should develop and execute comprehensive environmental and social sustainability initiatives within their organizations. By doing so, they can effectively enhance both financial and non-financial performance while fostering a culture of employee engagement aimed at further enhancing productivity.

Originality/value

This study stands out as a unique and significant contribution to theory by using the triple bottom line framework as the underlying theory and integrating corporate reputation into the proposed framework. It represents a novel approach, particularly within the context of energy companies operating in an emerging market. This research serves as a valuable complement to prior studies primarily conducted in developed (Western) economies, expanding the knowledge base in this field.
Digital technology and intentions to adopt digital e-health practices among health-care professionals
Authors: Abdelwahed Nadia A. Abdelmegeed , Al Doghan Mohammed A. , Saraih Ummi Naiemah , Soomro Bahadur Ali
Published: February 2024

Purpose

In the present era, digital technology can be used responsibly to provide developed and developing countries with high-quality health-care services to nations. This study aims to explore Saudi Arabia’s intentions to adopt digital health-care practices.

Design/methodology/approach

To be consistent with previous studies, this study used a quantitative methodology to collect the data from health-care professionals working in Saudi Arabia’s public and private health institutes. Consequently, this study’s findings are based on 306 valid samples.

Findings

On the one hand, the path analysis reveals that health-care professionals believe in perceptions relating to the use of e-health and technology (PEHT) and experiences regarding internet use (ERIU) and that these have positive and significant effects on attitudes toward the use of e-health and technology (ATEHT) and intentions to use e-health services (ITUES). On the other hand, barriers to using e-health (BUEH) negatively impact ATEHT and ITUES. Finally, ATEHT also has a positive and significant effect on ITUES.

Practical implications

This study’s findings will help Saudi Arabia’s policymakers and the country’s health ministry to develop policies to provide e-services that health-care professionals can use to improve the quality of the country’s health care, patients’ human rights and social care. Furthermore, this study’s findings are helpful in developing attitudes and intentions toward either e-health or digital health to provide better health facilities to serve Saudi Arabia’s citizens.

Originality/value

This study empirically confirms among Saudi Arabia’s health-care professionals the PEHT, ERIU and BUEH toward ATEHT and ITUES.
Blockchain-based deep learning in IoT, healthcare and cryptocurrency price prediction: a comprehensive review
Authors: Arora Shefali , Mittal Ruchi , Shrivastava Avinash K. , Bali Shivani
Published: February 2024

Purpose

Deep learning (DL) is on the rise because it can make predictions and judgments based on data that is unseen. Blockchain technologies are being combined with DL frameworks in various industries to provide a safe and effective infrastructure. The review comprises literature that lists the most recent techniques used in the aforementioned application sectors. We examine the current research trends across several fields and evaluate the literature in terms of its advantages and disadvantages.

Design/methodology/approach

The integration of blockchain and DL has been explored in several application domains for the past five years (2018–2023). Our research is guided by five research questions, and based on these questions, we concentrate on key application domains such as the usage of Internet of Things (IoT) in several applications, healthcare and cryptocurrency price prediction. We have analyzed the main challenges and possibilities concerning blockchain technologies. We have discussed the methodologies used in the pertinent publications in these areas and contrasted the research trends during the previous five years. Additionally, we provide a comparison of the widely used blockchain frameworks that are used to create blockchain-based DL frameworks.

Findings

By responding to five research objectives, the study highlights and assesses the effectiveness of already published works using blockchain and DL. Our findings indicate that IoT applications, such as their use in smart cities and cars, healthcare and cryptocurrency, are the key areas of research. The primary focus of current research is the enhancement of existing systems, with data analysis, storage and sharing via decentralized systems being the main motivation for this integration. Amongst the various frameworks employed, Ethereum and Hyperledger are popular among researchers in the domain of IoT and healthcare, whereas Bitcoin is popular for research on cryptocurrency.

Originality/value

There is a lack of literature that summarizes the state-of-the-art methods incorporating blockchain and DL in popular domains such as healthcare, IoT and cryptocurrency price prediction. We analyze the existing research done in the past five years (2018–2023) to review the issues and emerging trends.
Risks associated by consumers with clothing rental: barriers to being adopted
Authors: Grilló-Méndez Ana Julia , Marzo-Navarro Mercedes , Pedraja-Iglesias Marta
Published: February 2024

Purpose

To identify the risks associated by consumers with renting clothes.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive research with a quantitative approach was carried out. First, the measurement models of the variables involved in the proposed model were validated. After verifying the existence of the variables, the resulting model was finally estimated through structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results obtained establish the six dimensions that make up the problems associated by consumers with the clothing rental business model. These problems encompass various types of risks: financial, physical, performance, psychosocial, inconsistency with values and lifestyle, as well as lack of trust in the service provider. The results obtained show that only inconsistency, financial risk and physical risk have a significant effect on attitude. These performance risks, together with the consumer's attitude towards renting, have a negative effect on the intention to rent.

Originality/value

Factors that have a negative effect on attitude have been studied less than the facilitators of attitude. This is the first study in Spain.

Practical implications

The results will help managers to understand the adoption behaviours of these models.

Social implications

This study helps understand the social innovation needed to change consumers' relationship to clothing.
Social entrepreneurial role models’ influence on social entrepreneurial self-efficacy, social entrepreneurial intent, and social entrepreneurial action in South Africa: the moderating role of moral obligation
Authors: Maziriri Eugine Tafadzwa , Nyagadza Brighton , Maramura Tafadzwa Clementine
Published: February 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how social entrepreneurial role models influence social entrepreneurial self-efficacy, social entrepreneurial intent and social entrepreneurial action, with moral obligation as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey of 261 pupils in the South African province of the Eastern Cape was used in the research study. Structural equation modeling was used to test hypotheses.

Findings

The research revealed that having social entrepreneurial role models has a positive impact on both social entrepreneurial self-efficacy and social entrepreneurial intent. In addition, a connection was found between social entrepreneurial intent and entrepreneurial action. The influence of moral obligation was found to be a positive and a significant moderator. Moreover, the association between social entrepreneurial role models and social entrepreneurial intent was mediated by social entrepreneurial self-efficacy.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are not generalizable to nonstudent samples because students constituted the sample for gathering data. Future study therefore requires considering nonstudents to generalize the outcomes. This research should be replicated in other South African provinces and other developing countries for comparative outcomes.

Practical implications

Since social entrepreneurial role models have been practically linked to social entrepreneurship intent and entrepreneurial efficacy, understanding the factors that influence student’s decision to start a social enterprise is critical in South Africa to develop targeted interventions aimed at encouraging young people to start new businesses. Policymakers, society and entrepreneurial education will all benefit from the findings.

Originality/value

This study contributes to bridging the knowledge gap as it investigates how social entrepreneurial role models influence social entrepreneurial self-efficacy, social entrepreneurial intent and social entrepreneurial action, with moral obligation as a moderator. Encouraging social entrepreneurship among South African youth would also help address societal issues. This is a pioneering study in the context of an emerging economy such as South Africa, where social entrepreneurship is so integral.
MYBBP1A is required for efficient replication and gene expression of herpes simplex virus 1
Authors: Nobe Moeka , Maruzuru Yuhei , Takeshima Kosuke , Koyanagi Naoto , Kato Akihisa , Kawaguchi Yasushi
Published: February 2024

More than 100 different herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV‐1) genes belong to three major classes, and their expression is coordinately regulated and sequentially ordered in a cascade. This complex HSV‐1 gene expression is thought to be regulated by various viral and host cellular proteins. A host cellular protein, Myb‐binding protein 1A (MYBBP1A), has been reported to be associated with HSV‐1 viral genomes in conjunction with viral and cellular proteins critical for DNA replication, repair, and transcription within infected cells. However, the role(s) of MYBBP1A in HSV‐1 infections remains unclear. In this study, we examined the effects of MYBBP1A depletion on HSV‐1 infection and found that MYBBP1A depletion significantly reduced HSV‐1 replication, as well as the accumulation of several viral proteins. These results suggest that MYBBP1A is an important host cellular factor that contributes to HSV‐1 replication, plausibly by promoting viral gene expression.
Wolves recolonize novel ecosystems leading to novel interactions
Authors: Kuijper D. P. J. , Diserens T. A. , Say‐Sallaz E. , Kasper K. , Szafrańska P. A. , Szewczyk M. , Stępniak K. M. , Churski M.
Published: February 2024

The wolf (Canis lupus) is arguably the most successful species at recolonizing its now human‐dominated former ranges in Europe and North America. Over the centuries while the wolf was absent, humans have transformed ecosystems to a large extent. In this paper, we highlight key aspects of these human‐modified ecosystems that include changes to (meso)carnivore communities, wolves themselves (genetics, behaviour), woody plant communities and the playing field for predator–prey interactions (landscape structure).

We argue that the recognition of the novelty of human‐modified ecosystems logically leads to novel pathways of how wolves can influence ecosystem functioning. Thus far, the ecological impacts of wolves in human‐dominated systems have largely been predicted based on the documented effects they have on prey species or lower trophic levels in well‐preserved systems with low human impact. However, wolves in human‐modified ecosystems will engage in an array of novel interactions and potential novel trophic cascades that do not occur in more natural ecosystems with lower human impact.

This should encourage us to re‐assess the questions we ask about wolf impacts in novel systems. A promising direction for future studies is exploring what novel interactions establish and under what conditions wolves can exert their ecosystem impacts (context dependence) in the human‐modified ecosystems wolves are recolonizing.

Policy implications. Understanding these novel interactions and the context dependence of ecosystem impacts could guide us to act to improve conditions to enable wolves to exert their ecosystem impacts again. These novel interactions may be the true ecological and societal value of having wolves returning to human‐modified landscapes.
Management antecedents of supply chain resilience: An integrating perspective
Authors: Pu Guoli , Cui Ziqing , Qiao Jianqi
Published: February 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic has emphasized that supply chain resilience is an essential remedy for companies recovering from supply chain disruptions. In the VUCA era, many studies have identified three dimensions (sensing capability, seizing capability and reconfiguring capability) as organizational antecedents that contribute to supply chain resilience from the perspective of dynamic capability. However, the current literature on the antecedents of supply chain resilience largely lacks a managerial perspective. Research has shown that firms rely on supply chain managers when developing supply chain resilience. Nevertheless, little is known about the mechanisms at play in supply chain resilience and its organizational antecedents. Based on existing research, this study explores the paths and effects of managerial antecedents (dynamic management capability) and organizational antecedents (dynamic capability) on supply chain resilience by integrating dynamic and management capabilities. Through a questionnaire survey of supply chain managers in Chinese manufacturing companies, 223 valid sample data points were collected and tested empirically. The results show that the three dimensions of dynamic management capability (managers’ social capital, human capital and cognition) are positively related to supply chain resilience and that supply chain resilience is influenced by the mediating effect of the three dimensions of dynamic capability (sensing, seizing and reconfiguring capabilities). We argue that managers should focus on developing their social capital, human capital and cognition to improve supply chain resilience. This study explains dynamic management capability's role and logical path in supply chain resilience. Furthermore, it examines the mediating effects and internal logic of the three dimensions of dynamic capabilities, providing a new perspective for supply chain resilience research and bringing some management insights for managers to effectively improve firm supply chain resilience in terms of social relationship management and related learning skills.
Use of thermal drone in detection and assessment of larval mass temperature in decomposed rabbit carcasses
Authors: Syed Mohd Daud Sharifah Mastura , Heo Chong Chin , Mohd Yusof Mohd Yusmiaidil Putera , Khoo Lay See , Chainchel Singh Mansharan Kaur , Mahmood Mohd Shah , Bin Muhammad Nasir Muhammad Dzulfiqri , Nawawi Hapizah
Published: February 2024

Manual ground searches and cadaver dogs are traditional methods for locating remains, but they can be time‐ and resource‐intensive, resulting in the decomposition of bodies and delay in victim identification. Therefore, thermal imaging has been proposed as a potentially useful tool for detecting remains based on their temperature. This study investigated the potential of a novel search technique of thermal drones to detect surface remains through the detection of maggot mass temperatures. Two trials were carried out at Selangor, Malaysia, each utilizing 12 healthy male Oryctolagus cuniculus European white rabbits and DJI Matrice 300 RTK drone China, equipped with a thermal camera; Zenmuse H20T to record the thermal imaging footage of the carcasses at various heights (15, 30, 60–100 m) for 14 days for each trial. Our results demonstrated that the larval masses and corresponding heat emissions were at their largest during the active decay stage; therefore, all the carcasses were observable in thermal images on day 5 and remained until day 7. Statistical analyses showed that (1) no statistically significant differences in thermal images between clothed and unclothed subjects (p > 0.05); (2) 15 m above ground level was proven to be the optimal height, as it showed the greatest contrast between the carcass heat signature and the background (p < 0.005). Our data suggested the potential window of detection of thermal signatures was detectable up to 7 days post‐deposition. This could be an important guideline for the search and recovery teams for operational implementation in this tropical region.