bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Correlation between popliteal vein functional diameter and the severity of chronic venous disease
Authors: Liu Hao , Li Liheng , Wei Wenjiang , Tang Yinghong , Liu Lina , Xiao Chengjiang
Published: December 2024

Objective

This study measured the diameter change of the popliteal vein under a rated pressure gradient and evaluated the relationship between popliteal vein functional diameter and severity of chronic venous disease.

Methods

Ultrasound examination was performed on 173 lower limbs of 173 patients admitted from June 2023 to January 2024. The diameter of the popliteal vein was measured before and after compression with the thigh inflatable cuff. The correlation between popliteal vein functional diameter and venous clinical severity score ( VCSS ) was statistically analyzed.

Results

Venous clinical severity score values ranged from 1 to 28 (median 7). The Spearman correlation analysis between venous clinical severity score and functional diameter had an rs value of −0.222, p (double-tailed) < .001. The correlation between VCSS and popliteal vein diameter variation index yielded rs = −0.633, p (double-tailed) < .001.

Conclusion

This study found that popliteal vein functional diameter negatively correlated with the severity of chronic venous disease. Popliteal vein functional diameter and diameter variation index can be used as disease-specific indicators to quantify the severity of chronic venous disease. (Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT06175481).
Physician-Patient Communication about Novel Drugs and High-Risk Medical Devices
Authors: Dhruva Sanket S. , Kesselheim Aaron S. , Woloshin Steven , Ji Robin Z. , Lu Zhigang , Darrow Jonathan J. , Redberg Rita F.
Published: December 2024

Background

After a new drug or medical device is approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA), physician-patient communication about benefits and risks is critical, including whether the product was approved through an expedited pathway based on limited evidence. In addition, physician reporting of drug- and device-related adverse events in real-world use is necessary to have a complete safety profile. We studied physician-reported communication and safety-reporting practices related to drugs and devices.

Methods

We surveyed a random national sample of American Board of Internal Medicine–certified internists, cardiologists, and oncologists between October 2021 and September 2022 about the sources of information used to prescribe a drug or medical device, details of communication with patients, and reporting of adverse events.

Results

Among 509 respondents (39% response rate), 387 (76%) reported that FDA approval influenced their decision “a lot” to prescribe a new drug or recommend use of a medical device. Half (122; 50%) of the 244 physicians randomized to receive a question about their own communication of trial endpoints reported “usually” telling patients when products were approved based on surrogate measures and 126 (52%) “usually” reported telling patients if a postapproval trial was required to evaluate safety and effectiveness. Two-thirds (165) said they were likely to report drug- or device-related adverse events to FDA.

Conclusions

Physician self-reporting of communication with patients about drugs and devices suggests that half include characteristics of the pivotal trials such as use of clinically meaningful endpoints or continued requirement for evidence generation.

Implications

More consistent discussions with patients about the quality of evidence supporting new drugs and devices and increased reporting of adverse events could ensure optimal use of these products in clinical practice.

Highlights

Among 509 board-certified internists, cardiologists, and oncologists, half reported telling patients when drugs or medical devices were approved based on surrogate measures and when there was an FDA-mandated postapproval trial to further evaluate safety and effectiveness. As drugs and medical devices are increasingly approved by the FDA through expedited pathways based on data with lingering uncertainties, discussion with patients about issues such as the nature of the endpoints assessed and existence of postapproval testing requirements can help inform patient decision making.
A Parsimonious Approach to Remediate Concerns about QALY-Based Discrimination
Authors: Braithwaite Ronald Scott
Published: December 2024

US regulators and payers avoid using quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs) for reasons including concerns about disability and age discrimination. Various modifications of the QALY health utility function have been proposed to address discrimination concerns but are unintuitive to some and appear to alter the usual typical QALY tradeoffs between life expectancy and quality of life. I assert that it is unnecessary to further modify typical QALY tradeoffs to address discrimination concerns because, while discrimination and inequality are distinct concepts, aversion to them can be represented by the same mathematical formulation. Accordingly, formulating QALYs based on inequality aversion, as is sometimes done in distributional cost-effectiveness analyses, may be used to counter disability and/or age-based discrimination concerns. I illustrate using a hypothetical example of a lifesaving therapy, applied across varying ages and baseline disability levels, and adjusted for varying levels of the Atkinson inequality-aversion parameter epsilon (ε). I conclude that adjusting QALYs for inequality aversion using ε ranging from approximately 1 to 2 may remediate concerns about QALY-based disability and/or age discrimination in some cases.

Highlights

Important barriers to the use of QALYs in the United States include concerns about disability and age discrimination. Modifications to the utility function underlying QALYs have been proposed to mitigate these concerns, but some find them challenging to consider and/or to apply. Unrelated to these concerns, QALYs have been adapted within the framework of distributional cost-effectiveness analysis to allow consideration of inequality as well as efficiency. I outline how this framework can also remediate concerns about disability and age discrimination.
The value chain detective: A methods positive intervention
Authors: Lund-Thomsen Peter
Published: December 2024

In this article, I propose the concept of the ‘value chain detective’ to offer a fresh perspective on the role of researchers investigating economic, social and environmental dynamics at the base of global value chains. I highlight significant methodological, fieldwork and ethical challenges inherent in studying these conditions. By recognizing and embracing this role, I suggest that researchers can transform how they engage with and navigate the intricacies of value chain research.
Simulation study of fracturing pump connecting rod big end bearing wear failure based on multi-body dynamics
Authors: Jing Jia-Jia , Chen Yun , Yang Liu-Chuan , Qiu Zhi-Li
Published: December 2024

Fracturing pump is the core equipment in fracturing operations. Facing the process characteristics of shale gas fracturing operations, such as ultra-high pressure, large displacement, variable working conditions and long period, the key components of fracturing pump are prone to failure due to almost full load and non-intermittent operation. In this paper, a new type of five-cylinder fracturing pump is taken as the research object, and the vibration response of the fracturing pump under the corresponding failure modes is investigated. A rigid-flexible coupled dynamics simulation model of a new five-cylinder fracturing pump with typical failures of the key components is established by combining the multi-body system dynamics and the L-N nonlinear spring-damped contact force model. The vibration response of the pump is then investigated. The vibration response of the fracturing pump unit under no-load conditions with typical failures of the connecting rod and big end bearing is also investigated, as well as the data of the failure characteristics, which provide a theoretical basis for the understanding and prediction of the vibration behaviors of fracturing pumps under failure conditions. This study provides a theoretical basis for the fault diagnosis and health monitoring of fracturing pumps, enhancing their reliability and safety in practical engineering. Furthermore, it serves as an important reference for the fault diagnosis and prediction of reciprocating mechanical equipment.
Application of optimal fuzzy and PI hybrid controllers for permanent magnet synchronous generator–based wind energy conversion systems
Authors: Elias Muluken , Tuka Milkias Berhanu
Published: December 2024

Permanent magnet synchronous generator (PMSG)–based wind turbines (WTs) are preferred over doubly fed induction generators (DFIGs) due to some appealing features. The control techniques used in this paper are fuzzy-based pitch angle controller, optimal torque-controlled maximum power point tracking, and optimal fuzzy and proportional integral (PI) hybrid controller under MATLAB-Simulink software. A grey wolf optimization technique is used to optimize the input scaling factor of the fuzzy logic controller (FLC) and gains of the PI controller. The results indicate that optimal FLC-PI performs better in DC-link voltage control than an optimal PI controller in terms of peak overshoot (0.82%), undershoot (2.51%), and settling time (0.18 s). However, the peak overshoot (1.87%), undershoot (10.6%), and settling time (0.22 s) are recorded for DC-link voltage response while utilizing the optimal PI controller. The generator’s efficiency reaches up to 97.35% for the optimal FLC-PI controller while 96.01% is obtained with the optimal PI controller at rated wind speed.
Navigating Sustainable Practices in Public Sector Organizations: Current Themes and Emerging Trends
Authors: Naveed Shabana , Siddique Nida , Ul-Durar Shajara , De Sisto Marco
Published: December 2024

This study provides a systematic review of the current state of research on sustainability practices in the public sector exploring the growth trajectory, emerging themes, and future directions. Sixty publications (2009–2023) were selected and diligently examined to reach insightful results using the Biblioshiny tool and content analysis. Through thematic mapping, the emerging sustainability practices in the public sector, including green HRM, green and e-procurement, circular business model, sustainable reporting and disclosures, and triple-bottom-line framework, were found. Furthermore, trending topics, word frequency, and document citations indicate that a growing body of literature on sustainability practices is more focused on environmental concerns rather than the long-term orientation. Further research is required to examine the integration of sustainability concerns in the organizational strategy, technology-driven sustainable practices, and assessment of the impact of regulatory frameworks and incentives on encouraging public sector organizations to adopt and prioritize sustainability initiatives.
“Comfortability Comes From Seeing People Like You in Positions of Power”: Experiences of Special Education Teachers of Color
Authors: Bhana-Lopez Naima , Lukins Jordan M. , Sallese Mary Rose , Calhoun Elyse
Published: December 2024

Recruiting and retaining special education teachers, particularly those from historically underrepresented communities, is essential for addressing the ongoing lack of representation in the field and the issues related to the disproportionate representation of students. This qualitative study builds on Scott and Alexander’s prior research investigating motivating factors for pre-service and in-service teachers joining special education, valued aspects of teacher preparation programs, and recruitment and retention influences. Using a constructivist framework, we conducted a thematic analysis of 15 participant interviews. Thirty-one themes were identified, highlighting personal connections, practicality, representation, and financial aid as key considerations for attracting and keeping teachers of color in special education. The findings emphasize the importance of these factors for teacher-preparation programs and districts aiming to enhance the presence and longevity of diverse special education teachers. Implications and future directions are also discussed.
Influence of BI-RADS Breast Density Scores on the Implementation of Supplemental Imaging Modalities in Those With Average Risk and Negative Mammogram by Primary Care Providers in British Columbia
Authors: Bovard Jacqueline , Frysch Tammie , Tong Nora , Sharma Sonali , Yong-Hing Charlotte J.
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Breast Imaging-Reporting and Data System (BI-RADS) density scores have been included in screening mammography reports in BC since 2018. Despite these density scores being present in screening mammography reports for numerous years, there remains insufficient evidence to guide supplemental testing for patients with dense breasts. Objective: The primary objective of this study was to evaluate how primary care providers in Canada utilize BI-RADS density scores reported on normal screening mammograms of average risk, asymptomatic patients in their clinical practice. The secondary objective of this study was to determine if there are any patterns related to primary care provider demographics and practice settings in BC that could be linked to differences in screening practices for patients based on BI-RADS density scores. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted with family physicians (FPs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) practicing in BC. Descriptive statistics were calculated using percentages and further stratified by participant demographics. P values were derived from Fisher’s exact test and results were regarded as statistically significant at P < .05. Results: Ninety-eight participants (85 FPs, 13 NPs) responded to the survey. The percentage of participants who ordered supplemental testing based on BI-RADS density scores alone was 8% for BI-RADS score D, 37% for BI-RADS scores C or D, and 2% for BI-RADS scores B, C, or D. Forty-eight percent of female participants and 45% of male participants would order supplemental testing based on BI-RADS density scores alone ( P = 1). Forty-nine percent of FPs and 39% of NPs would order supplemental testing based on BI-RADS density scores ( P = .56). Fifty-three percent of participants who had been in practice for more than 10 years, 50% of those who had been in practice for 6 to 10 years, and 36% of those in practice for 5 years or less would order supplemental testing ( P = .34). Fifty-seven percent of those practicing in large urban centres, 43% of those practicing in medium-sized communities, and 32% of those in rural or remote communities would order testing ( P = .17). Fifty-seven percent of participants were aware of the increased risk of breast cancer with higher breast density. Conclusion: Variations exist in how primary care providers in BC utilize the BI-RADS density scores reported on normal screening mammography of average risk, asymptomatic patients in their clinical practice. Further research in this area is needed to establish clearer clinical guidelines to educate and inform primary care providers on the need for supplemental testing for patients with dense breasts and to improve resources for breast cancer screening in BC.
Norm-Critical Teaching in Practice? An Observational Study of a Campus-Based Clinical Learning Environment in Nursing Education
Authors: Castillo Ivan Andrés , Dahlborg Elisabeth , Arveklev Susanna H. , Tengelin Ellinor
Published: December 2024

Nursing education plays a pivotal role in shaping future nurse professionals who contribute to social justice and health equity. To achieve this goal, nursing teachers must employ effective learning strategies. One such strategy is norm-criticism, which promotes a critical reflection of the normative preconceptions that impact health equity. This study aimed to identify how nursing teachers approach norm-criticism during learning activities in a campus-based clinical learning environment with a norm-critical profile. Employing an ethnographic approach, we analyzed participant observational data using reflective thematic analysis. Our results revealed three overarching themes: “Teaching nursing disengaged from norm-criticism,” “Teaching norms and deflecting norm-criticism,” and “A hesitant norm-critical teaching.” This study concludes that the teachers did not have the tools or lacked knowledge in norm-critical teaching strategies, likely as consequence of inadequate faculty support and guidance. Ultimately, teachers should have access to norm-critical education and opportunities to learn how to carry out norm-critical teaching.
Peripheral Positionality: Conducting Ethnography With Youth as a Researcher from the “Peripheries”
Authors: Ataci Tugce
Published: December 2024

This article focuses on the concept of “peripheral” positionality based on my experiences as a non-Western researcher negotiating multiple positions as assigned and contested by gatekeepers, participants, and parents during the ethnographic research that I conducted on youth, digital practices, and peacebuilding in Rwanda. In this context, the concept of “peripheries” is not employed as a binary to characterize the “center” as the “Western” perspective. Rather, it serves to highlight the experiences as distinct from those that appear in the accounts of Western researchers conducting research in Africa or Africans conducting research in their “home.” I demonstrate that although I was an “outsider” as a non-Rwandan researcher, the way I was perceived resulted in experiences that were different than those I had expected. The article shows that reflecting on peripheral positionality can reveal the structural inequalities and power dynamics encountered by both researchers and interlocutors, which complicates yet also enriches the research process.
Milling stability considering multiple effects and variable rotational speed milling chatter control
Authors: Liu Xiangqian , Niu Junchuan , Xiang Jiajun
Published: December 2024

One of the most frequent barriers to decreasing the surface quality of workpieces during milling machining is chatter, and the accuracy of chatter prediction is directly impacted by the number of effects that are considered during the modeling of the milling process. Previous researchers have studied the impact of chatter suppression on the spindle variable rotational speed method in the milling model while considering various effects. The variable rotational speed waveforms primarily focus on the fundamental waveform or a composite of sine waveforms. The study presents a novel method for variable speed control, utilizing a waveform that combines sine and triangular waveforms. The effect of this method on chatter suppression is investigated in a milling dynamics model that considers regenerative, modal coupling, and process damping effects. This novel method overall improves milling stability significantly. The accuracy of the novel method is verified by simulation and experiment. Next, the analysis focuses on the influence of immersion rate, spindle modulation coefficients, and phase difference on stability, based on stability prediction. The choice of these parameters has a direct influence on the ability to suppress chatter.
A new Galerkin method for buckling of sandwich nanobeams
Authors: Lan Dao Manh , Anh Nguyen Dong , Dong Pham Van , Thom Do Van , Civalek Ömer , Minh Phung Van
Published: December 2024

This paper studies static buckling of nanobeam sandwich beams, these beams consist of two layers of material that are attached to each other by a curved surface, this is also the novelty that this work does. The formulations are developed using the new third-order shear deformation theory in conjunction with nonlocal theory to demonstrate the size effect’s influence. This work employs both solutions simultaneously to solve the problem, one based on the finite element method (FEM) and the other using the new style Galerkin (GL) method, in which the parameters of this GL method are chosen more flexibly with different boundary conditions, demonstrating the impact of boundary conditions on the accuracy of the calculation results, this approach is the highlight of the present research. Numerous intriguing instances exist in the calculation results where it is possible to choose the appropriate parameter so that the beam’s critical burden is either maximal or minimal. This is the scientific premise for designing sandwich beams and selecting the appropriate parameters for their use in practice.
Dynamic analysis of spacecraft truss deployment mechanism based on conformal contact
Authors: Zhang Huibo , Li Guangping , Bai Zhengfeng , You Bindi , Hou Weijie
Published: December 2024

The spacecraft deployment mechanism has phenomena such as impact, vibration and creep during the unfolding process, which has an important influence on the successful unfolding of the structure and the dynamic stability of the load after unfolding. Aiming at the shortcomings of the traditional conformal contact force calculation model, the viscous damping factor is introduced into the model to obtain an improved conformal contact force calculation model. The modified contact force model is used to calculate the normal contact force of the mechanism joints, and the improved Coulomb friction model is used to calculate the tangential contact force of the mechanism joints. Then, a multi-body system dynamic model of the truss deployment mechanism with multi-clearances is established. This model is used to numerically study the effect of clearance on spacecraft’s multi-clearances deployable truss system. The simulation results show that the clearance parameters have regular effects on the dynamic characteristics of the truss unfolding mechanism. At the same time, there is a very obvious coupling effect between different clearances.
Systemic lupus erythematosus is a risk factor for having multiple subtypes of cutaneous lupus erythematosus
Authors: Lu Grace , Brown Larry Steven , Chong Benjamin F
Published: December 2024

Background

Patients with cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) can present with one or multiple different subtypes of CLE. There is limited understanding of the prevalence and associated risk factors for having multiple CLE subtype diagnoses.

Objective

This study characterized the frequency and risk factors for having multiple CLE subtypes.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 319 patients with CLE enrolled in the University of Texas Southwestern Cutaneous Lupus Registry seen in outpatient dermatology clinics at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center and Parkland Health from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2021. Demographic and clinical information was collected from each subject and compared using univariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Results

59 subjects (18.5%) were diagnosed with two or more CLE subtypes. Univariate analyses identified statistically significant differences in rates of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) diagnosis, history of positive anti-nuclear antibody, arthritis, renal disorder, and serositis in patients with multiple CLE subtype diagnoses. In the multivariable analysis, SLE diagnosis was found to be statistically significant.

Conclusions

Our study showed that almost one out of five CLE patients have multiple CLE subtypes, with SLE diagnosis being a significant risk factor. Clinicians can monitor CLE patients for developing multiple subtypes and account for systemic manifestations and laboratory abnormalities associated with SLE.
Workforce Psychological Distress and Absenteeism in Australia: The Correlates of Industry, Age, and Gender
Authors: Burns Kristy , Ellis Louise A. , Neto Abilio De Almeida , Amin Janaki
Published: December 2024

The workplace is an important setting for improving population psychological health. This study aimed to identify priority industries and populations in Australia with highest adverse effects of psychological distress. The study included 5834 workers aged 18 to 64 years who participated in the 2020 to 2021 National Health Survey. Logistic regression analyses were used to estimate the prevalence of psychological distress by industry, age group, and gender. Productivity losses were analyzed using negative binomial regression. Increased odds of experiencing distress were found for younger workers 18 to 29 years (odds ratio [OR] = 2. 45, 95% CI [1.75, 3.43]) and female workers (OR = 1.52, 95% CI [1.16, 2.01]). Industry of employment did not impact distress once age and gender were accounted for ( P = .956). Being highly/very highly distressed resulted in a mean of 21.56 more distress-related loss days per year (0.78 vs 22.34) compared with low/moderate distress. Targeted and tailored workplace intervention programs for these groups are required to build a healthy and productive future workforce.
On the Disclosure of Defensive Posture: Adversarial Belief Formation and Target Selection Decisions
Authors: Hunt Kyle , Güney Şule , Zhuang Jun , John Richard
Published: December 2024

Due to the strategic and adaptive nature of adversaries, the deployment of new technologies is common practice in the arenas of security and defense (e.g., new baggage scanners at airports). History has shown that the deployment of these technologies has often been disclosed to the public, allowing malicious actors to potentially understand which venues are defended, and how. There is limited research examining how information disclosed about the deployment of new security measures can impact the beliefs and decisions of adversaries. Studying these beliefs and decisions is critical in obtaining insights into adversarial behavior, which can inform the allocation of defensive resources and the design of related information disclosures. This article aims to address this gap by studying how people—who are motivated to attack one among multiple targets—respond when receiving information from a defender regarding the deployment of new security measures at those targets. We address whether attackers (i) believe the information they receive from the defender and (ii) choose to attack after learning that new security measures may be deployed at their target(s) of interest. We find that attackers’ beliefs regarding where new security measures are deployed, and their decisions to attack particular targets, are impacted by the information they receive from the defender and by their understanding of the defender’s target valuations, highlighting the importance of strategic information disclosure in counterterrorism operations. In an experimental setting with two targets, when attackers ([Formula: see text]) knew that the defender valued one target much more than the other, they had a stronger belief that security measures would be deployed at the higher-value target, even when the defender announced that only the lower-valued target was protected with enhanced security. We also identify important factors that increase the likelihood of deterrence (i.e., when adversaries decide not to attack), which is a major goal in counterterrorism operations. Overall, this study provides novel insights into information disclosure and adversarial decision making in security and defense contexts, contributing to the operations management and behavioral decision analysis research in this domain.
Dynamic Pricing and Service Fulfillment of Mobile Charging Systems With Stochastic Demands
Authors: Yang Jie , He Fang , Shen Zuo-Jun Max , Lin Xi
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the operations of a novel service model, mobile charging, in which an e-commerce platform operator dispatches trucks equipped with charging piles to provide charging services for customers’ electric vehicles with low battery levels. We model the platform-customer interaction with a Stackelberg game and explicitly characterize customers’ optimal charging decisions under the platform’s various service plans. In a general scenario that involves charging requests within a transportation network, we develop a joint optimization model for the platform’s pricing and service fulfillment, utilizing an elaborately constructed augmented network. In addition, we explore a localized subproblem where multiple orders are concentrated within a specific region. With a simplified model structure, we propose an approximation algorithm with provable performance guarantees and further theoretically evaluate the resource consumption and associated platform benefits for serving the orders in each region. The results enable the batching of neighboring demands within the general scenario as a specialized node, resulting in a streamlined network with fewer nodes. Additionally, we can enhance the algorithm’s efficiency within the general framework through strategic prioritization of node visitations, leveraging the analytical findings. Furthermore, the insights derived can offer recommendations for the deployment of mobile charging and the selection of target areas in the initial stages. Overall, our study provides comprehensive guidelines and valuable insights for mobile charging operations.
When Platforms Go Public, Standards Drop
Authors: Lapierre-Berger Guillaume , Cohen Maxime C , Puyana-Bastin Juan
Published: December 2024

Peer-to-peer (P2P) platforms facilitate the direct exchange of goods, services, or financial transactions between individuals without the involvement of intermediaries. To maintain trust among their user bases, these platforms must implement stringent access controls to determine which users are eligible to participate in their digital marketplace. We argue that when a platform transitions from private to public ownership, it may be incentivized to strategically lower its access standards and admit users who might otherwise have been deemed unqualified. Lowering standards before an initial public offering (IPO) can enable platforms to rapidly increase their user base—and, consequently, enhance their perceived valuation—which could appeal to stock investors and positively influence the IPO price. While this strategy may bolster short-term growth, it could be costly to the platform’s user base. We support this hypothesis using data from two major P2P lending platforms—one that went public and one that remained private. Using a difference-in-differences analysis, we find that the platform preparing for an IPO admitted borrowers who exhibited higher risk levels. Additionally, lenders, in some cases, did not effectively screen out these subpar borrowers and ended up issuing loans to them, leading to higher default rates and lower returns for the lenders. This effect was particularly evident for a specific segment of lenders—namely, those who brokered small-valued loans and loans for necessary purchases (e.g., health emergencies). By contrast, lenders who screened for large-valued loans or loans for discretionary expenditures (e.g., vacations or weddings) were more successful in screening out these subpar borrowers and not issuing loans to them. These results fill a gap in the operations management literature on platform governance by integrating capital-raising objectives into the discussion of access control and operational screening. Our study highlights the nuanced trade-off between quality control and user expansion during capital-raising events, emphasizing both the opportunities and potential inefficiencies that arise in this context.
Making Delivery Platform Drivers Safer: Platform Responsibility Versus Consumer Empowerment
Authors: Hu Li , Zhou Xiangyu , Choi Tsan-Ming , Du Shaofu
Published: December 2024

The increasing frequency of traffic accidents involving food delivery drivers has raised public concern about the safety of fast delivery services. In response, food delivery platforms have introduced two corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies to enhance drivers’ road safety: One in which the platform assumes full responsibility for extending delivery times and another that empowers consumers to decide on extended delivery times. Additionally, policymakers are mandating that platforms purchase employment injury insurance for their drivers. Despite these efforts, debates continue over how platforms should adjust delivery times to mitigate driver risk and whether new driver protection policies are truly effective. In this study, we employ the Hotelling model to examine a duopoly food delivery market in which consumers are socially responsible, time-sensitive, and exhibit heterogeneous loyalty to competing platforms. Building on the consumer empowerment framework, we investigate the optimal CSR strategy choices for these platforms and assess the resulting impacts on various stakeholders. Our analysis provides three key insights. First, we demonstrate that offering differentiated extended delivery time options can mitigate the negative impact of consumer aversion to empowerment on platform profitability, especially in markets with a significant consumer heterogeneity in time sensitivity. Second, we identify a potential all-win CSR outcome, wherein positively shaping consumer attitudes benefits all stakeholders, a possibility often overlooked in practice. Third, we surprisingly find that the widely adopted protective measure, namely the mandatory insurance policy (MIP), does not effectively mitigate driver risk. In contrast, our proposed risk-based MIP addresses this limitation and allows consumers who actively participate in CSR initiatives to benefit from a lower markup on delivery fees. These insights offer a refined analytical framework for understanding consumer empowerment, providing valuable guidance for researchers, platform operations managers, and policymakers.
Is In-Game Purchase a Guilty Pleasure? Negative Beliefs and Treatment
Authors: Li Mei , Guo Hong , Lee Gyusuk , Shah Rachna
Published: December 2024

In-game purchases have become the dominant source of revenue for developers of digital games and are critical to the growth of the digital game industry. However, the distribution of in-game purchases among gamers is highly skewed, where a very small proportion of gamers, labeled “whales,” account for the majority of in-game purchases, and a massive proportion of non-whales spend a minuscule amount. In this study, we explore how to improve in-game purchases by examining gamers’ underlying beliefs. We postulate that compared to spending on other forms of entertainment, in-game purchases suffer from an unusual set of negative beliefs that work against such purchases. We conduct four consecutive studies related to the negative beliefs, propose an approach to mitigate their impact on in-game purchases, and explain the heterogeneous effects of the proposed approach. Specifically, in study 1, we demonstrate the existence of negative beliefs. In Study 2, we identify five key types of negative beliefs. In Study 3, we develop an approach to reduce the negativity of these beliefs and improve gamers’ positive attitudes toward in-game purchases. Lastly, in Study 4, we examine reasons behind heterogeneous results from Study 3 on different gaming platforms and using different revenue models, and design more tailored approaches to incentivize in-game purchases for pay-to-play games and gamers on console platforms. Collectively, the findings in this paper reveal a set of overlooked factors that hinder in-game purchases and introduce a low-cost, effective technique that has the potential to influence gamers’ spending behaviors. Our findings extend beyond a single-game genre or platform and offer potential benefits to the entire digital game industry.
Revisiting Seller Reputation: Impact of Internal and External Reputation on Sales in Online Knowledge Payment Markets
Authors: Cheng Xusen , Jin Yue , Xu Yue , Luo Xin (Robert) , Qiu Liangfei
Published: December 2024

The emergence of the sharing economy has catalyzed the proliferation of online knowledge payment platforms, empowering individuals possessing untapped knowledge to engage as sellers. Within this landscape, reputation plays a pivotal role in shaping the sales dynamics of knowledge products, which are categorized as credence goods. Unlike conventional sellers, who typically focus on internal reputation-building efforts, knowledge providers have the opportunity to cultivate an external reputation through their professional contributions beyond the platform, potentially influencing sales within it. However, the relative impact of internal and external reputation on driving sales remains uncertain. Our study addresses this gap by investigating the influence of a knowledge provider's internal and external reputation on sales across two phases of live knowledge-sharing lectures—pre and post-live broadcast—using data obtained from a prominent online knowledge payment platform. Our findings reveal that both internal and external reputation positively impact sales during both phases. Furthermore, our analysis indicates that the type of product moderates the effect of reputation on sales, with internal reputation exerting a greater influence on sales of hedonic products, while external reputation has a stronger effect on sales of utilitarian products. These discoveries contribute to technology operations management by providing theoretical insights into the formulation and implementation of innovative strategies aimed at enhancing the sales performance of knowledge-based products. Our findings underscore the importance of integrating distinct reputation-building approaches into the design of reputation systems, thereby charting a course toward achieving successful product sales in the realm of online knowledge payment platforms.
Advancements in Inventory Management: Insights From INFORMS Franz Edelman Award Finalists
Authors: Gupta Shubham , Guha Samayita , Kumar Subodha
Published: December 2024

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the advancements and applications of operations research (OR) and management science (MS) in inventory management described by the Franz Edelman Award finalists from 1985 to 2023. The research presents the transformative potential of OR/MS in addressing complex inventory management challenges across various industries. Through an in-depth examination of the methodologies and solutions employed by these studies, we highlight the strategic implementations of several OR/MS techniques, including simulation-optimization, deep learning and advanced forecasting, dynamic pricing and yield management, and stochastic modeling. The analysis reveals the tangible benefits realized, such as optimized inventory levels, reduced costs, improved profits and revenue, and improved customer satisfaction. This research underscores the critical role of inventory process optimization and risk mitigation in navigating uncertainties and demand fluctuations. The managerial insights derived from these initiatives provide a roadmap for practitioners seeking to implement advanced OR/MS methodologies in real-world inventory management. The findings also encourage the adoption of innovative methods to enhance the operational efficiency and competitiveness. Through this exploration, we aim to stimulate further innovation and research in the evolving field of inventory management and to celebrate the achievements in applied analytics brought forth by the Franz Edelman Award finalists.
Changes in Parental Involvement and Parental Expectations During High School for Students With Emotional and Behavioral Difficulties
Authors: Duppong Hurley Kristin , January Stacy-Ann A. , Lambert Matthew C. , Huscroft D’Angelo Jacqueline , Hamilton Alexandra
Published: December 2024

Home-based parental involvement and parental expectations in school are strong predictors of academic outcomes for high school students. Given this, we explored whether changes in parental involvement and parental expectations during high school were correlated with academic functioning for students with emotional or behavioral difficulties ( N = 888) compared with their peers ( N = 4,148). We found that home-based parental involvement was stable during high school for both groups of students. There was a decrease in parental educational expectations during high school that was equivalent between both groups. Students with elevated emotional and behavioral difficulties had significant correlations between increases in home-based involvement and increases in both parental expectations and grade point average, whereas the peer group had significant, yet trivial correlations among the constructs.
A historical overview on static and dynamic analyses of sandwich or partially composite beams and plates
Authors: Challamel Noël , Atashipour Seyed Rasoul , Girhammar Ulf Arne , Barroso Viviane Setti , Andrade Anísio , Boutin Claude , Eremeyev Victor A
Published: December 2024

This paper gives a brief overview of the static and the dynamic analyses of sandwich beams and sandwich plates composed of two elastic layers connected by a soft core. We show the strict correspondence between the sandwich beam, sandwich plate, and the analogous composite beam and composite plate problem with partial interaction. The beam problem is governed by a sixth-order differential equation in space for the deflection, whereas the plate problem is governed by a tri-Laplacian equation for the deflection, as first shown by Hoff in 1950 for symmetrical three-layer component (sandwich plate or composite plate theory with partial interaction). It is shown herein that the tri-Laplacian partial differential equation is also valid for general unsymmetrical sandwich plate or partially composite plate. In the limit cases, i.e., for non-composite action and for full-composite action, the beam model reduces into the Euler–Bernoulli beam model and the plate model into the Kirchhoff–Love model. Boundary layer phenomena may be predominant in the asymptotic stiff problem. The nonlocal bending moment–curvature of the sandwich beam (or composite beam with partial interaction) is analysed, and extended to a nonlocal Marcus bending moment–curvature for the composite plate theory. The consistency of the tri-Laplacian plate theory is commented, regarding the bi-Laplacian Reissner sandwich plate theory, which neglects the bending stiffnesses of each face layer. The paper finally presents results for the static bending and vibrations of sandwich beams and plates on simply supported boundary conditions, with a discussion on asymptotic limit cases.
Agreeing to Disagree: Linear-Circular and Public-Private Tensions in the Transformation to Circular Business Models
Authors: Stål Herman I. , Manzhynski Siarhei , Bengtsson Maria
Published: December 2024

Research points to public-private collaboration’s importance for supporting the transformation from linear to circular business models. As little is known of such collaboration, we conducted a 4-year in-depth case study to answer how transformation is affected by two types of tensions: between linear and circular elements and between public and private partners. We find that tensions shape the transformational process into a dialectical pattern, as partners’ institutional differences initially cause them to conflict over whether to focus on linear or circular elements but, over time, arrive at a synthesis. Our findings contribute to circular business model research by illustrating the usefulness of understanding transformational challenges as linear-circular tensions and by illuminating the dialectics of transformational processes.
Comparison of Pediatric- and Adult-Onset Mycosis Fungoides Patients in Terms of Clinical Features and Prognosis in a Large Series
Authors: Pehlivan Ulutas Gizem , Atci Tugba , Baykal Can
Published: December 2024

Background:

Studies comparing the clinical and prognostic differences between pediatric- and adult-onset mycosis fungoides (MF) are limited.

Objectives:

To determine the impact of childhood-onset MF on clinical features and disease course in a large series.

Methods:

Consecutive MF patients seen in a single centre between 2007 and 2021 were categorized into 3 groups: (i) MF patients diagnosed in the pediatric ages (≤18 years) (pediatric group), (ii) MF patients with disease onset in the pediatric period and diagnosis in adulthood (lately diagnosed pediatric-onset group), and (iii) MF patients with disease onset in the adulthood period (>18 years) (adult-onset group). Demographics, clinical features, stage at diagnosis, and progression to advanced stages during follow-up were recorded and compared.

Results:

Among 651 MF patients, 52 (8%) belonged to the pediatric group and 30 (4.6%) to the lately diagnosed pediatric-onset group. Pediatric MF presented with a combination of clinical variants in 48.1% of cases. While classical MF was the most common presentation in the 3 groups, hypopigmented (55.8%) and folliculotropic (17.3%) variants were more prevalent in the pediatric group compared to the others. Progression to the advanced stages was higher in the adult-onset MF group (12.1%) compared to the pediatric and lately diagnosed pediatric-onset MF groups (2.4%) ( P = .014).

Conclusions:

This study highlights a relatively high prevalence of pediatric MF (8%) and lately diagnosed pediatric-onset MF (4.6%), often presenting with multiple and non-classical clinical variants. The higher rate of progression to advanced stages in the adult-onset group supports the relatively benign nature of MF in the pediatric-onset group.
Exploring the impact of physical activity on resilience: A longitudinal analysis in Japanese adults
Authors: Ueno Yuki , Hirano Mari , Oshio Atsushi
Published: December 2024

Recently, the role of physical activity in enhancing resilience has garnered increasing attention. Resilience describes the personal characteristics that influence psychological recovery and adaptation to stress. This study examined the relationships between various domains of physical activity and resilience in Japanese adults by analyzing panel data from five waves, gathered at 3-month intervals over a year. The study included 579 Japanese adults, with an average age of 46.4 years (SD = 8.0, range = 30–59 years). Results from random effects models revealed a positive association between work-related moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) and innate resilience factors. In contrast, sedentary behavior was negatively associated with these factors. Transport- and leisure-related MVPA showed positive correlations with acquired resilience factors. These findings show that the influence of physical activity on resilience may vary across different activity and resilience domains. Therefore, designing targeted interventions based on physical activity types is necessary for enhancing resilience.
Dalit, Structural Violence, and Stigma in India: An Approach to Study the Untouchability
Authors: Jena Bikram Kumar , Acharya Arun Kumar
Published: December 2024

This article delves into the intricate layers of the Indian caste system, a deeply rooted social hierarchy that has persisted for centuries. Focusing on the stigma of untouchability faced by Dalits, a marginalised group within the Jati system, the study shifts its focus from direct violence to the structural violence inflicted through stigmatisation. Conducted in a rural village in Odisha, India, the research aims to uncover the covert agendas shaping societal attitudes. The study provides nuanced insights by comparing the experiences of touchability and untouchability among Dalits and non-Dalits within a specific time and space. The methodology employed in this research encompassed extensive fieldwork, interviews, and observations. The study addresses gaps in contemporary research through rigorous data collection and analysis, offering a more comprehensive understanding of the Indian Jati system. It delves into the multi-layered nature of untouchability practices within a society, revealing that even among untouchables, hierarchies exist. An essential aspect highlighted in the article is the significance of comprehending the unique village structures. The study emphasises that the position of a lower Dalit category in one village might translate to a higher hierarchy in another, underlining the contextual intricacies of caste dynamics.