bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
“It’s Traumatic for All of Us”: A Qualitative Analysis of Providers Caring for Seriously Ill Veterans With Surgical Conditions
Authors: Wu Adela , Bradley Sarah E. , Vitous C. Ann , Millis M. Andrew , Suwanabol Pasithorn A.
Published: November 2024

Objective:

We aimed to characterize sources of moral distress among providers in the context of surgery.

Background:

Moral distress is defined as psychological unease generated when professionals identify an ethically correct action to take but are constrained in their ability to take that action. While moral distress has been reported among healthcare providers, the perspectives of providers working in surgery specifically are not often explored and reported. Our study was developed from an overarching effort to investigate end-of-life care for seriously ill patients with surgical conditions.

Methods:

Using convenience sampling, we conducted 48 semistructured interviews with providers who provide high-intensity care (eg, surgeons, anesthesiologists, intensivists, and midlevel providers) for seriously ill patients with surgical conditions across 14 Veterans Affairs hospitals. Interviews were analyzed iteratively using thematic content analysis.

Results:

Providers described clinical encounters that generated moral distress while caring for seriously ill patients with surgical conditions: (1) difficulties in conflict resolution with and among patients and families; (2) specific types of patients or situations; (3) systemic factors hindering appropriate end-of-life care; (4) surgical culture and expectations of the surgeon’s role.

Conclusions:

Providers caring for seriously ill patients with surgical conditions report emotions and reactions consistent with moral distress. Our study highlights important triggers for providers and hospital systems to identify and address throughout a surgical provider’s training and career.
Location of Vascular Structures at Risk in Relation to Sacroiliac Joint Fusion
Authors: Brandt Zachary , Nguyen Kai , Harianja Gideon , Amin Kirulus , Battikha Adel , Betdashtoo Ninous , Kubba Rohan , Shin David , Oliinik Mark , Razzouk Jacob , Chung Jun Ho , Danisa Olumide , Cheng Wayne
Published: November 2024

Study Design:

Retrospective Cohort

Objective:

This study seeks to establish the normal distribution of the vasculature surrounding the SI joint while also demonstrating associations between distribution and laterality, sex, and ethnicity.

Summary of Background Data:

Sacroiliac (SI) joint fusion surgery has emerged as a viable treatment option for patients suffering from low back pain due to chronic SI joint dysfunction. Due to potential complications from iatrogenic injury to vasculature, it becomes critical to understand normal anatomy and locations with a high vasculature concentration surrounding the SI joint.

Methods:

The authors retrieved medical and radiographic records of patients who underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the pelvis. Anterior and posterior compartments of the SI joint were established on the transverse view by creating an even coronal division of the SI joint. The superior, middle, and inferior compartments were established on the coronal view as three equal transverse compartments. The compartments in which vasculature was visualized were recorded.

Results:

Distribution of vasculature around the right and left hemipelvis concentrated in the inferior compartments and decreased in concentration while moving superiorly. Anterior compartments contain a higher vascularity than posterior compartments. Vasculature was present in less than 3% of the posterior middle, and posterior superior compartments while present in more than 83% of the inferior compartments. There were no significant differences with respect to vascular distribution when comparing the laterality of the right versus left hemipelvis. There were statistically significant relationships between vascular distribution and sex (P<0.05), as well as across self-reported ethnicity (P<0.05).

Conclusion:

SI screw placement in the posterior superior has the lowest risk of iatrogenic vascular injury. Careful consideration should be taken during SI joint fusion surgery in the inferior compartments due to its high vasculature density.
Incidence of Postoperative Complications among Patients with Active or Resolved COVID-19 Undergoing Elective Abdominal Wall Reconstruction
Authors: Aguilera Fabiola , Wagner Grant , Bald Madeline , Richman Joshua , de la Torre Jorge I.
Published: November 2024

Background:

The incidence of postoperative complications among patients with coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) positivity undergoing elective surgical operations is poorly understood. This study aimed to identify differences in postoperative complications after elective abdominal wall reconstruction (AWR) in patients diagnosed with COVID-19 compared with patients presenting prepandemic.

Methods:

A single-institution, retrospective chart review was performed of patients undergoing AWR between January 2017 and September 2022. Patients were stratified by date: pre-COVID-19 (January 2017 to December 2019) and post-COVID-19 (January 2020 to September 2022). Patients confirmed as COVID-19-positive were also identified. Data collected included demographics, clinical characteristics, and complications. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

Results:

We included 168 patients. The mean age was 54 years, and the mean body mass index was 33 kg/m2. Seventy-five patients underwent surgery pre-COVID-19 and 93 patients after. Of 93 patients, 16 (17%) had a positive COVID-19 test before surgery or during the perioperative period. These 2 groups were risk-matched. Patients with COVID-19 had no significant increase in postoperative complications. Major complications occurred at 13.3% in the pre-COVID-19 group and 7.5% in the post-COVID-19 group. Patients with COVID-19 were more likely to be younger (48 versus 57; P = 0.049) and more likely to have a shorter length of stay in the hospital (3 versus 5.8; P = 0.038).

Conclusions:

In our case series, there was an associated increase in the incidence of overall pulmonary-related complications in the postpandemic group. This study is limited by its small sample size. Further investigation should be carried out on this topic.
Predicting pan-cancer immune-checkpoint therapy and prognosis with a chromatin-accessibility-related alternative splicing signature: a retrospective study
Authors: Li Yitong , Lan Feifei , Lin Yi , Zhu Xiao , Chen Lianzhou
Published: November 2024

Background:

This study examines alternative splicing (AS) events in genes linked to chromatin accessibility in various cancers and their relation to the tumor immune microenvironment.

Methods:

Data from the Cancer Genome Atlas Database (TCGA) were used to identify independent prognostic factors for pan-cancer. We explored the correlation between differentially expressed genes and tumor immunity, including immune checkpoint genes, tumor development, and immune cells. A regulatory network diagram of alternative splicing-splicing factors (AS-SFs) was constructed to find potential immunotherapy targets.

Results:

IRF5 and E2F8 genes showed significant differential expression in pan-cancer. Age, cancer grade, primary tumor, cancer lymph nodes, and distant metastasis were independent prognostic factors. The risk model achieved good predictive performance, with AUC values of 0.705, 0.746, 0.743, and 0.743 for 1-year, 3-year, 5-year, and 10-year survival predictions, respectively. Positive correlations were found between IRF5/E2F8 and CD274/CTLA4 in certain cancers using TIMER and CIBERSORT software.

Conclusions:

AS events in chromatin accessibility genes (IRF5 and E2F8) have significant predictive value in pan-cancer prognosis. Our model assesses patient survival probability and highlights the synergistic impact of immune checkpoints and the AS-SF regulatory network on tumor immunotherapy.
Anticoagulation for Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery: An American Glaucoma Society Survey
Authors: Pradeep Tejus , Schwartz Turner , Sankar Prithvi S. , Miller-Ellis Eydie G. , Ying Gui-Shang , Cui Qi N.
Published: November 2024

Précis:

Perspectives and practice patterns regarding perioperative anticoagulation management and minimally invasive glaucoma surgery were queried among surgeons of American Glaucoma Society. Management varied based on surgeon preference and the type of procedure performed.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to characterize anticoagulation and antiplatelet practice patterns for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) in the perioperative period.

Materials and Methods:

This was a survey of surgeons of American Glaucoma Society (AGS) about anticoagulation decision-making for their most performed MIGS procedures.

Results:

A total of 103 surgeons completed the survey, with 43.6% in an academic setting, 49.5% in a private practice setting, and 6.8% in a mixed practice. Median MIGS per month was 10 [interquartile range (IQR) 20–5]. The 2 most performed MIGS were trabecular meshwork (TM) bypass with either device implantation (24.9%) or tissue excision (40.0%). Half of the respondents (50.5%) deferred to the primary care physician about anticoagulation most/all the time. Most (59.3%) managed anticoagulation differently for MIGS compared with trabeculectomy and tube implantation. Respondents reported an average of 1.3 (SD 2.5) bleeding complications related to anticoagulation and MIGS in the last year. Bleeding risk perception depended upon the type of surgery (e.g., 74.0% reported no/mild concern regarding surgeries involving TM bypass with device implantation vs. 48.0% reported high concern for TM bypass with tissue excision). Respondents stopped blood thinners at the highest rates for procedures enhancing aqueous outflow through the subconjunctival space and stopped least frequently for iStent implantation. Antiplatelets were held for a longer duration than anticoagulants before surgery, and most resumed both agents within 1–4 days after surgery.

Conclusions:

Anticoagulation management is highly varied, and this study may help to inform practice guidelines and optimize surgical outcomes by elucidating surgeon perspectives toward MIGS and anticoagulation management.
Multiphase CTA Collateral Score to Identify Intracranial Atherosclerotic Stenosis-Related Large Vessel Occlusion
Authors: Xia Jiajie , Tu Chuanjian , Qian Hui , Gu Zhiwei , Song Dagang , Xu Lei
Published: November 2024

Objective:

Identification of acute ischemic stroke with large vessel occlusion (AIS-LVO) etiology is crucial for effective revascularization therapy. As collaterals are pivotal in maintaining cerebral perfusion in intracranial atherosclerotic stenosis (ICAS), we investigated whether multiphase CT angiography (mCTA) collateral score can be a diagnosis marker of ICAS-related LVO.

Methods:

We reviewed clinical and imaging data from 92 patients who presented with AIS-LVO and underwent mCTA (57 ICAS-related LVO and 35 embolic LVO). Logistic regression was used to identify ICAS-related LVO. The diagnostic accuracy of the mCTA collateral score for identifying ICAS-related LVO was determined using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis.

Results:

Compared with patients with embolic LVO, those with ICAS-related LVO had a high median mCTA collateral score (4 vs. 3; P<0.0001). The multinomial logistic regression analysis revealed a significant increase in the mCTA collateral score (OR: 3.717, 95% CI: 2.009-6.876, P<0.0001) in patients with ICAS-related LVO. ROC analysis revealed that the optimal cutoff point of the mCTA collateral score to diagnosis the ICAS-related LVO was 3.5, the area under the curve (AUC) was 0.817 (95% CI: 0.736-0.899; P<0.0001), sensitivity was 80.7%, and specificity was 74.3%. Further analysis revealed that patients with a 4 to 5 mCTA collateral score exhibited a significantly higher median modified Rankin Scale (mRS) at discharge compared with those with a 0 to 3 score (P=0.0464).

Conclusions:

The mCTA collateral score may be associated with ICAS-related LVO and could be beneficial in identifying the etiology of AIS-LVO.
A Nurse-Led App-Based Home Exercise Program After Total Knee Arthroplasty
Authors: Bak Song-Yi , Uhm Ju-Yeon
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Reduced activity because of pain is a major health issue associated with total knee arthroplasty. This study evaluated the effectiveness of a nurse-led app-based home exercise program for patients who underwent total knee arthroplasty.

Methods

A nonequivalent control group of pretest–posttest design was used. Data from 45 patients were collected. The control group received individualized face-to-face exercise education, whereas the experimental group received training on the use of app-based home exercise education, including exercise videos and app push notifications to encourage exercise after discharge. Pain, range of motion, exercise self-efficacy, and quality of life were measured at baseline and 3 and 12 weeks after surgery. Nursing care satisfaction was evaluated 12 weeks after surgery.

Results

There were significant overall reductions in pain intensity (p = .001), improvements in limited range of motion (p < .001), and increases in exercise self-efficacy (p = .034) and quality of life (p = .033) in the experimental group (n = 22) compared with those in the control group (n = 23). Nursing care satisfaction was significantly higher in the experimental group than in the control group (p < .001).

Conclusions

Rehabilitation nurses can offer app-based home exercise education with push notifications to alleviate pain, enhance range of motion, improve exercise self-efficacy, and increase nursing care satisfaction for patients who have had a knee arthroplasty.
Cross-setting Comparison of Risk Factors for Pressure Injuries Acquired in Post-Acute Care
Authors: Barch Daniel H. , Seibert Julie Hayes , Kandilov Amy , Bernacet Amarilys , Deutsch Anne , Wang Xiao (Joyce) , Scherer Elissa , McMullen Tara , Mandl Stella , Levitt Alan , Frank Jennifer , Stephanopoulos Cynthia , Smith Laura M.
Published: November 2024

GENERAL PURPOSE

To provide information on the association between risk factors and the development of new or worsened stage 2 to 4 pressure injuries (PIs) in patients in long-term care hospitals (LTCHs), inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs), and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).

TARGET AUDIENCE

This continuing education activity is intended for physicians, physician assistants, nurse practitioners, and nurses with an interest in skin and wound care.

LEARNING OBJECTIVES/OUTCOMES

After participating in this educational activity, the participant will:

1. Compare the unadjusted PI incidence in SNF, IRF, and LTCH populations.

2. Explain the extent to which the clinical risk factors of functional limitation (bed mobility), bowel incontinence, diabetes/peripheral vascular disease/peripheral arterial disease, and low body mass index are associated with new or worsened stage 2 to 4 PIs across the SNF, IRF, and LTCH populations.

3. Compare the incidence of new or worsened stage 2 to 4 PI development in SNF, IRF, and LTCH populations associated with high body mass index, urinary incontinence, dual urinary and bowel incontinence, and advanced age.

OBJECTIVE

To compare the incidence of new or worsened pressure injuries (PIs) and associated risk factors for their development in inpatient post-acute care settings: long-term care hospitals (LTCHs), inpatient rehabilitation facilities (IRFs), and skilled nursing facilities (SNFs).

METHODS

The authors investigated Medicare Part A SNF resident stays and LTCH patient stays that ended between October 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016 and IRF patient stays that ended between October 1, 2016 and March 31, 2017. They calculated the incidence of new or worsened PIs using the specifications of the National Quality Forum-endorsed PI quality measure #0678: Percent of Residents or Patients with Pressure Ulcers that are New or Worsened.

RESULTS

The incidences of new or worsened stages 2 through 4 PIs varied across settings: 1.23% in SNFs, 1.56% in IRFs, and 3.07% in LTCHs. Seven risk factors were positively and consistently associated with new or worsened PIs across settings: limited bed mobility, bowel incontinence, low body mass index, diabetes/peripheral vascular disease/peripheral arterial disease, advanced age, urinary incontinence, and dual urinary and bowel incontinence.

CONCLUSION

These findings provide empirical support for the alignment of risk factors for the PI quality measures across post-acute care settings.
Trauma-Informed Professional Development
Authors: Gilroy Heidi , Thayer Becky , Pine Rosemary , Davis Amanda , Kobina Audrey
Published: November 2024

Background and Significance

Nurses are disproportionately affected by mental and physical health problems that are a result of exposure to traumatic events in the workplace.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to use intervention mapping strategies to construct interventions to address traumatic stress in nurses through trauma-informed professional development (TIPD) in a rehabilitation hospital.

Design

This study used a community-based participatory research design with an intervention mapping approach. Logic models were created through input from theory, evidence from the literature, and feedback from 12 focus groups with leaders, nursing professional development practitioners, and direct-care nurses.

Findings

Major themes in the logic models included safety, empowerment, peer support, and awareness. These findings were used to create specific TIPD interventions to be used with nurses in a rehabilitation hospital.
Enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli in Blantyre, Malawi
Authors: Ashton Philip M. , Katuah Zefaniah Joel , Botomani Arnold , Kutambe Belson M. , Cunliffe Nigel A. , von Mentzer Astrid , Msefula Chisomo , Jere Khuzwayo C.
Published: November 2024

We announce the deposition of the first two enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli (ETEC) genomes from Malawi. They were isolated from the faeces of asymptomatically infected children obtained in 2014. Both genomes encode the porcine variant of the heat-labile toxin and no known ETEC colonization factors.
Grid to Place Cell Connectivity in Eleven Different Rooms
Authors: Aggarwal Anu
Published: November 2024

To understand the grid to place cell connectivity, we took place cell firing data from Moser lab. In MATLAB, we created grid cell firing patterns. Connection weights between the two were learned with backpropagation algorithm. The smaller place fields could be learned from grid cells with single spatial firing frequency. But bigger, multiple and irregular place fields could only be learned from grid cells with multiple spatial firing frequencies. Weights learned were normally distributed with a wider spread and multimodal distribution for rooms with uneven, larger or multiple firing fields. We conclude that each place cell is connected to single modules of grid cells with similar spatial firing frequency. Place cells connected to multi-frequency grid cells are fewer. Our results also show that grid cells resolve the space into spatial distance, orientation, and phase offset. Unique firing patterns of the place cells codify each room with this information.
Skewed-Gaussian model of small-photon-number coherent Ising machines
Authors: Inui Yoshitaka , Ng Edwin , Yamamoto Yoshihisa
Published: November 2024

A Gaussian quantum theory of bosonic modes has been widely used to describe quantum optical systems, including coherent Ising machines (CIMs) that consist of χ(2) degenerate optical parametric oscillators (DOPOs) as nonlinear elements. However, Gaussian models have been thought to be invalid in the extremely strong-gain-saturation limit. Here, we develop an extended Gaussian model including two third-order fluctuation products, 〈δX̂3〉 and 〈δX̂δP̂2〉, which we call self-skewness and cross-skewness, respectively. This new model which we call the skew-Gaussian model more precisely replicates the success probability predicted by the quantum master equation (QME), relative to Gaussian models. We also discuss the impact of skew variables on the performance of CIMs.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Effect of the uncertainty of autocorrelation estimation on trend analysis
Authors: Zhou Yu , Kantz Holger
Published: November 2024

Autocorrelation is ubiquitous in real-life time series. For trend analysis, positive autocorrelation mainly increases the statistical uncertainty of the detected trend. The theoretical framework has been established to quantify how the autocorrelation can impact trend analysis if its characteristic is known precisely. However, if the autocorrelation is also uncertain like that estimated in real-life data, then the consequences are yet unclear. The situation is further complicated by the concurrence of both short- and long-range correlation (SLRC), e.g., in air temperature. In this study, we use an appropriate minimal model with one short-range autoregressive parameter and one long-range fractional parameter to account for such SLRC, and then accordingly propose a framework to integrate the effect of the uncertainty of autocorrelation estimation into trend analysis, on the basis of the detrended fluctuation analysis and Akaike weights. This framework can also obtain a joint probability density function of the estimated autoregressive and fractional parameters for measuring their uncertainty, identifying their combined optimal estimates, uncovering their strong interdependence, and determining their two-dimensional confidence region. The effectiveness and applicability of the proposed framework are verified by a numerical experiment and a case study of daily air temperature anomalies at the Potsdam station. This study can provide a solid theoretical basis to underpin our understanding of the autocorrelation effect on trend analysis in theory and applications.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Impact of perceived ease of use on impulsive buying behaviour through mobile commerce with hedonic and utilitarian effects
Authors: Soomro Suhaib Ahmed , Habeeb Yusuf Olatunji
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the impact of perceived ease of use on mobile shoppers’ inclination to make impulsive purchases in the context of mobile commerce. The authors employ a technology acceptance model to examine how perceived ease of use affects the impulsive tendencies of smartphone users. Additionally, we utilise a motivation orientation framework to understand the moderating effect of utilitarian and hedonic values in the relationship between perceived ease of use and impulsive buying behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-administered online survey was conducted on 427 users of mobile commerce applications. Structural equation modelling was employed through SPSS AMOS 26 to analyse the collected data.

Findings

According to the findings, perceived ease of use has a substantial negative connection with impulsive buying behaviour. This inverse relationship is interesting as it shows that user-friendliness alone may not be enough to drive spontaneous buying. However, hedonic and utilitarian values moderated the connection between perceived ease of use and impulsive buying behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s findings will help marketers, policymakers, organisations and academicians comprehend the significance of hedonic and utilitarian values in driving IBB and making rational decisions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the technology acceptance model and motivation orientations by determining the crucial role of utilitarian-hedonic values in triggering impulsive purchases in the mobile commerce sector of a non-tech savvy developing country.
The influence of directors’ and officers’ liability insurance on management tone manipulation – evidence from China
Authors: Xiong Wei , Liu Tingting , Zhao Xu , Xiao Zihan
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the association between directors’ and officers’ liability insurance (D&O insurance) and management tone manipulation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses data from A-share listed non-financial companies from 2009 to 2021 as its sample for empirical tests. In addition, the study relies on text analysis and the construction of models to investigate the relationship between D&O insurance and management tone manipulation.

Findings

The authors find that the purchase of D&O insurance will lead to management tone manipulation in the “management discussion and analysis” part of companies’ annual reports, and operating risk and agent cost are the two paths for the effect. Further analysis shows that having a male CEO and employing high-quality auditors can weaken the positive impact of D&O insurance on tone manipulation.

Originality/value

This paper provides a new approach for studying the literature related to D&O insurance and management behavior, and the findings enrich our understanding of the influencing factors and the mechanism of management tone manipulation, thus revealing policy implications for further standardization of the terms and system of D&O insurance in China.
The impact of corporate governance on the cancer waiting time target of the English National Health Service hospitals
Authors: Alta’any Mohammad , Tauringana Venancio , Achiro Laura Obwona
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact of a board-level governance bundle (i.e. size, independence, expertise, meetings, gender diversity and multiple directorships) on the non-financial performance of National Health Service (NHS) hospitals – and, separately, by hospital type (i.e. trusts hospitals and foundation trusts hospitals).

Design/methodology/approach

A logit regression for panel data is used for a sample of 128 NHS trusts and foundation trusts across England from 2014 to 2018. The data was hand-collected from NHS hospitals’ annual reports and Care Quality Commission reports. The cancer waiting time target (i.e. 62-day cancer referral and treatment target) is used to measure non-financial performance.

Findings

The main findings for NHS hospitals indicate that multiple directorships positively and significantly affect non-financial performance. However, board expertise and gender diversity have a negative and significant influence. When the sample is partitioned, the results remain the same for the NHS foundation trusts hospitals. For NHS trust hospitals, except for multiple directorships having a positive and significant effect, all remaining governance attributes have an insignificant impact.

Practical implications

The findings have implications for policymakers and practitioners as they move to implement measures to improve hospital performance against the cancer waiting time targets in the English NHS.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the impact of corporate governance on cancer waiting time targets in public hospitals. Overall, this paper contributes to the corporate governance literature, especially in the context of public hospitals, and has significant practical and theoretical implications.
Delayed retirement, elderly care and women labor supply
Authors: Li Xiaoyi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper believes that while implementing the gradual delay retirement age policy in China, the impact should be considered comprehensively; we should pay attention to impacts brought by the delayed retirement policy and introduce policies to deal with the impacts in a timely manner.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper aims to explore the delayed retirement’s impact on women’s labor supply and to clarify the elderly care’s role in it.

Findings

The results found that the delayed retirement has a positive effect on the women’s overall and young women’s labor supply, with a more significant promotion for young women’s labor supply. The mediation results suggest that delayed retirement promotes women’s labor supply by affecting elderly care. Therefore, we believe that while implementing the gradual delay retirement policy in China, it is important to implement it on the correct estimation basis so as to reduce the volatility in the labor market.

Originality/value

This paper may produce marginal contributions in the following two aspects: From the research perspective, we construct a model containing delayed retirement, elderly care and women’s labor supply and illustrate how the delayed retirement promotes women’s labor supply by affecting elderly care. Secondly, from the research content, this paper expands the delayed retirement on macro-employment and further explores the micro-impact on employment.
Do CSR practices affect perceived market performance through compliance status? Evidence from a quasi-natural experiment in India
Authors: Bansal Manish
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The study examines the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) non-compliance on firm value. It also investigates the moderating roles of ownership concentration and research and development (R&D) intensity in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

For hypothesis testing, the authors utilized panel data regression models on a dataset comprising 13,760 firm-years listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange, covering a period of nine years following the legislation (from March 2015 to March 2023).

Findings

Our findings reveal a detrimental effect of mandatory CSR spending on the value of non-compliance firms, consistent with the notion of deterrence theory. Further, we find that the negative impact is more pronounced among widely-held firms compared to closely-held firms, aligning with shareholder activism and information asymmetry theory. Our subsequent tests indicate that R&D intensity mitigates the negative impact, indicating a substitution relationship between CSR and R&D expenditure. Consistent with this finding, we find a lesser negative impact of CSR non-compliance on firm value of widely-held R&D intensified firms. Our findings are robust to the problem of endogeneity and self-selection bias.

Practical implications

Our findings highlight practical implications for managers regarding performance management. Managers should recognize that mandatory CSR spending can negatively impact performance, especially in widely-held firms, leading to shareholder dissatisfaction. To mitigate these effects, increasing R&D investment is likely to buffer against the adverse impacts of CSR mandates. Firm managers should align R&D efforts with CSR obligations to counterbalance costs and manage shareholder expectations, thereby maintaining performance and enhancing the perception of innovation among stakeholders.

Originality/value

It is the first study to consider the degree of compliance within firms while examining the impact of mandatory CSR spending on firm value. Also, the study is among pioneer attempts to investigate the moderating role of ownership structure and R&D intensity on the relationship.
Enhancing project success through value-creating social interactions: insights from project managers in Iranian governmental organizations
Authors: Mirzaei Ramyar , Nasrizar Amir Asad , Mirzaei Zanyar , Salavati Adel
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Despite significant advancements in project processes, tools and systems, overall project success rates have not markedly improved. Recent studies underscore the importance of “value creation” as a key factor in enhancing project outcomes, particularly through the interaction between project managers and employees. However, there remains a critical gap in understanding how project managers can effectively leverage daily social interactions to foster cooperation and create value in complex, temporary and high-pressure environments typical of project-based organizations. This study aims to address this gap by exploring the lived experiences of project managers in governmental project-based organizations, focusing on how they use social interactions as a strategic tool for value creation.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with various groups of project managers using open-ended questions, selected through the snowball sampling method. The collected data were then analyzed qualitatively using grounded theory techniques.

Findings

The findings indicate that project managers can foster value creation in the minds of employees by employing a range of behavioral strategies in the workplace. The effectiveness of these strategies, however, is influenced by the prevailing social culture within the project implementation site.

Originality/value

Consequently, understanding and adopting the appropriate behavioral approaches depend on the project’s unique social context. In conclusion, this research sheds light on the most effective parameters for value creation through social interactions in project spaces.
Influence of mortality threats on anthropomorphized brand attitude: role of control and connectedness motives
Authors: Xiang Liang , Park Hyun Jung
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to provide a new perspective on the impact of mortality threats on consumer behavior through the lens of brand anthropomorphism. It examines the mediating effects of control and connectedness motives and the moderating effects of brand roles on the relationship between mediators and brand attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

A preliminary study explored the relationship between pandemic-induced mortality threats and attitudes toward anthropomorphized brands. Study 1 investigated the underlying mechanism, and Study 2 examined the moderating effects of servant or partner roles. Study 3 confirmed the mortality threat effect on anthropomorphic brand attitudes in the absence of the pandemic.

Findings

The study revealed that mortality threats enhanced the desire for control and connectedness, which strengthened attitudes toward anthropomorphized brands. The results also indicated matching effects between the motivations for anthropomorphism and brand roles.

Originality/value

This research offers novel insights into the effects of pandemic-induced mortality threats and mortality threats in non-pandemic contexts on anthropomorphic motives. It highlights the influence of these psychological needs on consumer responses to brand roles and provides insights for brand management during a crisis.
Enhancing digital competence through story-based learning: a massive open online course (MOOC) approach
Authors: Malakul Sivakorn , Sangkawetai Cheeraporn
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study investigated a story-based learning MOOC’s effectiveness in enhancing digital competence.

Design/methodology/approach

A quasi-experimental design with 5,501 participants enrolled in a developed MOOC course was assessed through pretests, formative assessments and posttests. K-means clustering, using the Self-Efficacy in Digital Competence Scale (SDCS), was employed to classify experimental and control groups and analyze differences in perceived competence across age groups (10s–60s).

Findings

Learners’ digital competence significantly improved (p < 0.001) after the MOOC, demonstrating knowledge and skill gains across various domains. The highest SDCS domain was communication and collaboration, while the lowest was digital content creation. Additionally, the SDCS data showed higher self-efficacy in the 20–40s age group and lower in the 10, 50 and 60s.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest a gap in learners’ digital content creation competence. Additional content could be incorporated to bridge this gap. This study supports story-based learning MOOCs for promoting digital competence.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the field by developing and evaluating a MOOC with story-based learning to explore learners’ digital competence and its relationship with age.
The modern house: conservation and (re)use through the narrative approach
Authors: Augustiniok Nadin , Özmen Ayça
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This paper acknowledges the limitations of conventional heritage conservation, where the reuse of iconic modern houses as museums or exhibits often sacrifices their original residential function. We explore four aspects of the narrative approach – significance, reversibility, expandability and craftsmanship – to assess its potential for preserving and allowing change over time in the modern house.

Design/methodology/approach

Four iconic modern houses are analysed in this study: Villa Tugendhat-Brno frozen as a museum house, Chabot Museum-Rotterdam refunctioned as an art museum, Haus Schminke-Löbau used as a guest house and Maison Guiette-Antwerpen still in use. Employing aspects of the narrative approach (Walter, 2020a, b), the analysis evaluates recent heritage management practices in preserving the building’s multifaceted history and associated perspectives.

Findings

The narrative approach in heritage conservation values the evolving significance of cultural heritage by recognising different perspectives and preserving the traces of past changes. It promotes sustainability by enabling adaptive reuse while preserving historical integrity by respecting past and future heritage. Despite its obvious weaknesses, such as potential subjectivity, the dilution of valuations and the loss of historic fabric, it particularly responds to the ephemeral nature and challenges of modernity.

Originality/value

The cross-case analysis of practical conservation approaches, encompassing varied strategies for conservation and adaptive reuse, offers valuable insights for theorizing the significance of modernist architecture for both the present and future.
Assessing sustainable housing in rural areas of Malaysia: effects on economic benefits and social implications
Authors: Wong Shi Yee , Ling Pick-Soon , Tseng Ming-Lang , Ting Ka Sing , Low Wai Wah , Wong Kwong Soon
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The recognition of housing as an essential requirement in enhancing the quality of life of an individual has increasingly captivated scholars’ interest, particularly within the context of sustainability. However, the identification of suitable attributes of sustainable housing to be prioritized encountered challenges due to a lack of effective approach in addressing uncertainties and stakeholders’ interests. This study attempts to identify critical attributes of sustainable housing in rural areas and explore their interrelationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Six dimensions and 54 criteria are proposed and validated using the expert linguistic preferences through the Fuzzy Delphi Method. The Fuzzy Decision-Making Trial Evaluation Laboratory is also applied to determine the interrelationship between those attributes.

Findings

The result demonstrates that economic benefits strongly impacted social implications for sustainable housing. The top criteria, including government participation, reduced life cycle cost, environmental protection and local authorities’ participation, are considered to assist housing stakeholders for better sustainable practices.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies addressing the interrelationship among sustainable housing attributes through linguistic preferences in the context of rural areas.
The Celadon Group: accounting shenanigans backfire
Authors: Andre Sean , Belak Phyllis
Published: November 2024

Research methodology

The authors gathered the core information for this case using publicly available filings from the US Department of Justice and the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Publicly available news articles were used to complement the core information. All sources are cited.

Case overview/synopsis

This case involves an assumed fraud perpetrated by the C-suite members of Celadon Group, Inc. – formerly one of the largest trucking companies in North America. By 2016, the value of Celadon’s truck inventory significantly decreased in value. Instead of reducing the inventory to its market value on the Balance Sheet, management engaged in a series of trades and creative accounting to conceal the fact they had overvalued the trucks.

Investment analysts at Prescience Point Capital Management and Jay Yoon (both published on Seeking Alpha) found inconsistencies and red flags in Celadon’s 2016 and 2017 financial reports and reported their suspicions to the public. Soon after, Celadon’s audit committee declared the company’s recent financial statements could no longer be relied upon, resulting in an immediate market loss of $62.3m. In 2019, Celadon entered into a Deferred Prosecution Agreement and was ordered to pay $42.2m in restitution. The Department of Justice (DOJ) criminally charged Danny Williams (president of Quality, a Celadon subsidiary) and he entered a plea agreement. The DOJ also criminally charged Bobby Lee Peavler (CFO) and William Eric Meek (COO). Celadon filed for bankruptcy and operations ceased. Then, in an unexpected turn of events, in 2022, the DOJ dismissed the criminal case against Peavler and Meek.

Complexity academic level

This case allows students to apply theory learned in a fraud examination or forensic accounting course to an actual fraud case. It discusses red flags and how perpetrators of fraud often need to keep perpetrating wrongdoing to keep the original fraud from being discovered. The authors designed the case for upper-level or graduate business students. It should be included in the course when covering financial statement fraud.
Enhancing living skills in Dravet syndrome through precision teaching: a component-composite approach with an environmental modification
Authors: Vascelli Luca , Iacomini Silvia
Published: November 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the impact of precision teaching (PT) on living skills in an individual with Dravet syndrome (DS). Focusing on a core case of a 14-year-old with DS, it assesses the role of PT in mastering the daily living skill of putting on a jacket, integrating a component-composite approach.

Design/methodology/approach

The research adopts a within-subject design, emphasising the transition from component skills to composite skills in daily living tasks. Using an environmental modification, it tracks the participant’s progress in putting on a jacket pre- and post-PT intervention.

Findings

Significant enhancements in the independent execution of putting on a jacket were observed, highlighting PT’s effectiveness in refining living skills in DS. The study offers valuable insights into the component-composite framework of skill acquisition and the use of environmental modifications.

Research limitations/implications

While improvements were noted, the study suggests further research to promote the long-term sustainability of PT’s impact on living skills in DS.

Practical implications

The study underscores PT’s practical benefits in enhancing daily living skills among DS individuals. It provides a strategic model for educators and therapists focusing on skill development.

Social implications

This research emphasises the importance of specialised, effective teaching methods like PT in fostering independence and quality of life for individuals with disabilities, advocating for tailored educational approaches.

Originality/value

This investigation examines the efficacy of PT for developing living skills in DS; it contributes novel perspectives to special education and therapeutic interventions.
Tadpole aggregations create biogeochemical hotspots in wetland ecosystems
Authors: Corline Nicholas J. , Hotchkiss Erin R. , Badgely Brian , Strahm Brian D. , Scott Durelle T. , McLaughlin Daniel L.
Published: November 2024

Animal waste can contribute substantially to nutrient cycling and ecosystem productivity in many environments. However, little is known of the biogeochemical impact of animal excretion in wetland habitats.

Here we investigate the effects of wood frog (Lithobates sylvaticus) tadpole aggregations on nutrient recycling, microbial metabolism and carbon cycling in geographically isolated wetlands.

We used a paired mesocosm and field study approach that utilized measurements of tadpole excretion rates, microbial extracellular enzyme activities, and litter degradation.

We found a strong relationship between tadpole development and nutrient excretion, demonstrating that ontological changes impact tadpole‐mediated nutrient cycling in wetland habitats. Further, the interplay between population‐level tadpole excretion and wetland hydrologic conditions increased ambient and concentrations by 56 and 14 times, respectively, compared to adjacent wetlands without tadpoles. Within our mesocosm study, microbes decreased extracellular enzyme production associated with nitrogen acquisition in response to the presence of tadpole‐derived nitrogen. In addition to microbial metabolic responses, tadpole presence enhanced litter breakdown in both mesocosms and wetlands by 7% and 12%, respectively, in comparison to reference conditions.

These results provide evidence for the functional and biogeochemical role of tadpole aggregations in wetland habitats, with important implications for ecosystem processes, biodiversity conservation, and ecosystem management.
Discovery and characterization of a novel Lepidoptera‐specific antimicrobial peptide from the fall armyworm, Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae)
Authors: Qi Wen‐Xuan , Liu Feng , Liu Fang‐Fang , Ren Hai‐Yan , Zhang Bang‐Xian , Yu Xiao‐Qiang , Rao Xiang‐Jun
Published: November 2024

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) are critical components of innate immunity in diverse organisms, including plants, vertebrates, and insects. This study identified and characterized a novel Lepidoptera‐specific AMP, named lepidoptin, from the invasive pest Spodoptera frugiperda (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae). Lepidoptin is a 116‐amino acid protein containing a signal peptide and a novel β‐sandwich domain that is distinct from previously reported AMPs. Temporal and spatial expression analyses revealed a significant upregulation of the lepidoptin gene in vivo and in cultured SF9 cells in response to pathogens. Molecular docking analysis identified a specific binding cavity. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay and binding assays confirmed that lepidoptin can bind to pathogen‐associated molecular patterns, bacteria, and fungi. Recombinant lepidoptin exhibited potent antibacterial activity by inducing bacterial agglutination, inhibiting bacterial growth, increasing bacterial membrane permeability, and preventing biofilm formation. Lepidoptin also showed antifungal activity against the entomopathogenic fungus Beauveria bassiana by inhibiting spore germination, increasing fungal cell permeability, and increasing reactive oxygen species. Injection of recombinant lepidoptin into S. frugiperda larvae increased survival after B. bassiana infection, whereas knockdown of lepidoptin by RNA interference decreased larval survival. In addition, lepidoptin showed antimicrobial activity against the plant pathogen Fusarium graminearum by inhibiting spore germination and alleviating disease symptoms in wheat seedlings and cherry tomatoes. This study demonstrates the remarkable dual functionality of lepidoptin in enhancing S. frugiperda immunity and controlling plant pathogens, making it a promising candidate for biocontrol strategies in both pest management and plant disease prevention.