bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does corporate governance affect the environmental, social and governance disclosure? A cross-country study
Authors: Mkadmi Jamel Eddine , Daafous Wifak
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to explore whether corporate governance mechanisms affect environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure by firms across countries. It investigates whether board cultural diversity affects ESG disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed methodology draws on multidimensional scaling as a multivariate assessment tool to evaluate and prioritize the effect of corporate governance on environmental, social and governance disclosure. This study uses a cross-country sample of 672 listed firms located in 40 countries for the period between 2014 and 2022. We used a panel regression to test the hypotheses. Moreover, we conducted a two-stage least squares regression analysis as an additional robustness check.

Findings

The results show that companies can have high-quality ESG disclosure when they have good corporate governance. Interestingly, this study found that board composition and some criteria of corporate social responsibility (CSR) positively affect ESG disclosure for firms.

Originality/value

This study adds to the existing body of accounting knowledge in several dimensions. Indeed, to the best of our knowledge, this is one of the few studies that investigate the effect of corporate governance on the environmental, social and governance disclosure of firms across 40 countries. This study also has important implications for the board of directors’ characteristics and CSR, which strive to improve the index of ESG disclosure.
Optimization and scheduling of combined heat and power system considering wind power uncertainty and demand response
Authors: Du ShengYi , Tan DongHong , Chen Zitong
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to propose a comprehensive optimization and scheduling method for the combined heat and power (CHP) systems that takes into account the uncertainties of wind power and demand response.

Design/methodology/approach

The uncertainty of wind power and the “thermal-electric coupling” characteristics of CHP units have led to an increasing issue of wind power curtailment in CHP systems. With the objective of minimizing the overall scheduling cost of the CHP system, this paper considers the characteristics of interactive loads and wind power uncertainty, and establishes a coordinated optimization scheduling model for the generation-load-storage of the system, based on the inclusion of thermal energy storage devices.

Findings

During the optimization scheduling process, the proposed method in this paper reduces the scheduling cost by ¥99,900 (approximately 36.3%) compared to traditional methods, and significantly decreases the wind power curtailment rate by 53.7%. These results clearly demonstrate the significant advantages of the proposed method in enhancing the economic efficiency of the system and improving wind power integration.

Research limitations/implications

However, the planning process did not take into account the impact of unit combinations and grid structures.

Practical implications

This study proposes a comprehensive optimization and scheduling method for the CHP systems that takes into account the uncertainties of wind power and demand response. The objective function is to minimize the wind curtailment rate’s total scheduling cost, considering the impact of wind power uncertainties and demand response. A coordinated optimization and scheduling model for the generation-load-storage of CHP system is established.

Social implications

CHP units achieve the coupling of electric and thermal energy, significantly improving energy efficiency. In this study, the planning of the CHP system considers the coupling relationships among multiple energy sources, various devices and the pricing optimization spaces of electric and thermal forms of generation, storage and load-side. This approach has achieved favorable results in terms of economic operation scheduling and wind power accommodation improvement.

Originality/value

The case method is used to handle the uncertainty of wind power output on the generation side. Demand response is integrated on the load side to adjust user load curves. On the storage side, the thermal-electric coupling constraints of the CHP units are decoupled using thermal energy storage devices, while considering the economic benefits of all three parties involved: the power source, the load and the energy storage.
Citizen agency in value co-creation processes – a literature review
Authors: Kurkela Kaisa , Maijala Salla , Tuurnas Sanna , Jalonen Harri
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to address citizen agency in value co-creation (VCC) in the context of public administration. It asks how citizen agency is presented in the VCC discussion to deepen the understanding of VCC as a dynamic interplay between public organisations and citizens adopting various forms of agency.

Design/methodology/approach

This study utilises the integrative literature review method, applying a two-round search process. Altogether, 40 scientific articles were subjected to content analysis to acquire a deeper understanding of citizen agency.

Findings

The VCC discussion represents citizens as resource integrators, experiencers, co-producers and beneficiaries. In addition, the study raises the questions of activity and voluntariness and the level of involvement linked to citizen agency in VCC. The connection between the VCC discussion and collective-side citizen activity is weak because the democratic aspects of the discussion are limited.

Research limitations/implications

This article contributes to the VCC discussion by painting a clear picture of citizen agency, which is also linked to the democratic essence and potential of VCC. It also identifies the potential weaknesses of the VCC conceptual debate.

Originality/value

This article sheds light on citizen agency in the context of the VCC discussion, which is an understudied issue in public administration research. The present study helps to enhance the discussion concerning the democratic potential of VCC.
Flexible work culture: prospects and trends through a bibliometric and systematic review
Authors: Yadav Priyanka , Bagri Kanchan
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Flexible work, defined by its adaptability to changing global conditions, marks a shift from traditional to modern practices. In this environment, employees can choose their preferred working style. This study reviews existing research and highlights new themes in the field.

Design/methodology/approach

The research data has been organized through a bibliometric analysis, including a systematic literature review and thematic analysis. Using Scopus, data from 2000 to 2024 was collected, and 400 articles were finalized for study on FWC. Vos Viewer, R Studio and Excel were used for analysis.

Findings

The research emphasizes embracing a flexible work culture, crucial for workforce adaptability. This can be achieved through telecommuting, compressed workweeks, part-time schedules and flexible hours. The study categorizes four main themes through cluster analysis: T1 (Framework, employee well-being and work experience), T2 (Gender-based study, supervisor support, perceived usability and career development), T3 (Parental experience, child care and virtual offices) and T4 (Present and futuristic agenda, work-intensification, teleworking and traditional vs modern work environment).

Research limitations/implications

This study will offer a blueprint for modern office job requirements. This Work structure will assist in addressing several difficulties for the business and its personnel, enabling managers and staff to effectively manage workloads while embracing flexibility to promote a positive workplace culture.

Practical implications

This study's prime implication is to provide clarity to managers to start working in a new modernize work set up where managers can help employees to build resilience and enjoy pros and work upon the cons within their work setup.

Social implications

This paper emphasizes the need to boost employee resilience and modernize traditional work systems. Key recommendations for improving workplace culture and well-being include recognizing gender differences in telework acceptance and providing related training, fostering ethical work practices and positive interpersonal beliefs and enhancing managers' leadership skills through targeted training.

Originality/value

This paper explores flexible work cultures, focusing on caregivers and elder care, to guide researchers and organizations in enhancing work–life balance.
Analyzing the effect of leader traits on organizational performance in Malaysian private higher education
Authors: Sivakumaran Vinesh Maran , Mohd Amin Mohd Rushidi , Mohd Yusof Muhammad Suhaimi , Chee Hoo Wong , Kim Yew Lim , Raman Arasu
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study focuses on organizational performance in Malaysia’s private higher education sector by investigating whether it can be affected by traits possessed by the leaders of these institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional research design was used, and the data were collected from a sample of 206 higher education institutions using the survey questionnaire approach. Hypotheses were tested using the partial least square (PLS-SEM) technique.

Findings

The findings revealed that decision-making skills, implementation skills, networking skills and resourcefulness affected organizational performance. However, novelty-seeking capability and empathic skills did not impact the organizational performance of educational institutions. In addition, the findings indicated that firm age (or maturity) did not moderate the relationship between leader traits and organization.

Practical implications

It is suggested that organizations, especially educational institutions, incorporate the identified traits in their leadership development programs for better outcomes. Using these traits in hiring, assessing and promotion processes can enhance effective leadership and quality education and help achieve the institution’s mission and vision.

Originality/value

This study advances knowledge and valuable insights into the effect of leader traits and their impact on organizational performance, particularly in private Malaysian higher education institutions.
The impact of green technology on guest safety: the mediating roles of responsible tourism practices and guest satisfaction
Authors: Chaudhary Hare Krishna , Singh Malini , Ghosh Pratik
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This research aims to examine the influence of green technology on guest safety in star-rated hotels. It aims to explore the mediating role of responsible tourism practices in this relationship and their subsequent effect on guest satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypothesis was tested using a cross-sectional study design. Green technology, guest satisfaction, responsible tourism practices and guest safety were evaluated using structural equation modelling (SEM) on 322 responses, analysed with AMOS 24 software.

Findings

Green technology positively influences responsible tourism practices and guest satisfaction, enhancing guest safety perceptions. Responsible tourism practices mediate the relationship between green technology adoption and guest safety. These findings suggest that there is a need of sustainable initiatives and guest-centric approaches in promoting guest safety and satisfaction in hospitality settings.

Practical implications

This study suggests integrating green technology enhances responsible tourism, guest satisfaction and safety perceptions. Prioritizing responsible tourism and guest satisfaction directly improves safety perceptions. Star-rated hotels can foster loyalty by aligning with sustainability and guest-centric principles for safer, enjoyable environments.

Originality/value

Although many studies have examined the relationship between green technology and guest safety, few have explored the connections between green technology adoption, responsible tourism practices, guest satisfaction and guest safety, particularly by investigating the mediating roles of responsible tourism practices and guest satisfaction in star-rated hotels.
Integrating soft computing techniques for optimizing green vehicular communications and networking in circular digital supply chain
Authors: Agarwal Somesh , Kumar Neeraj , Tyagi Mohit , Garg Rajiv Kumar
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to address environmental and societal challenges in reverse logistics within circular digital supply chains (CDSCs), focusing on reducing carbon emissions and improving community well-being. This study emphasizes how the advanced technologies can drive sustainability in CDSC reverse logistics by exploring social innovation through green vehicular communications and networking (GVCN), combined with artificial intelligence (AI) and Internet of Things (IoT).

Design/methodology/approach

A novel model is developed, leveraging soft computing techniques and multicriteria decision-making approaches (Simple Weighted Additive Ratio Analysis and Weighted Aggregated Sum Product Assessment) to optimize GVCN performance through AI and IOT in CDSC. This model integrates Industry 4.0 technologies to promote real-time decision-making, reduce emissions and mitigate negative environmental impacts.

Findings

The research highlights the societal impact of integrating predictive analytics and route optimization in reducing fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to cleaner transportation systems. This supports environmental goals and enhances public health and community well-being by reducing pollution and improving urban living conditions.

Originality/value

This study underscores the role of improved GVCN strategies as a driver of social innovation, demonstrating how advanced communication technologies can lead to tangible social benefits, including reduced environmental impact and improved quality of life, alongside operational efficiency.
Resisting sustainability reporting regulation in Europe: stakeholders’ barriers to the adoption of the corporate sustainability reporting directive
Authors: Damiano Rodolfo , Valenza Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This research explores barriers associated with the implementation of sustainability reporting regulation (SRR) in Europe, focusing on stakeholders’ resistance to transitioning from Directive 2014/95/EU (the NFRD) to Directive 2022/2464/EU (the CSRD).

Design/methodology/approach

SRR stakeholders’ feedback collected during a public consultation conducted by the European Commission was qualitatively and quantitatively analysed employing qualitative content analysis, iterating multiple regression models and relying on the normativity concept and innovation resistance theory (IRT).

Findings

The results revealed both psychological and functional barriers that negatively affect stakeholders’ agreement to transition from the NFRD to the CSRD and might result in sub-optimal normative outcomes of the CSRD’s regulatory innovations.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides important insights for policymakers regarding the ways to address stakeholders’ resistance to SRR innovations. Arising from the legislation’s recent introduction, the currently limited empirical evidence on the implementation outcomes warrants further research on the long-term impact of these barriers.

Practical implications

This study offers meaningful practical insights for policymakers to improve stakeholders’ acceptance of SRR, including but not limited to aligning new regulations with existing practices, offering training and financial incentives and highlighting tangible benefits to overcome resistance and perceived value gaps.

Originality/value

This study introduces IRT as a framework to investigate SRR normativity and identifies psychological and functional barriers that might negatively affect the SRR regulatory success. The results provide a comprehensive understanding of how such barriers impact the early stages of normativity.
Multiple solutions for gravity-driven thermally heated material of dissipative Ohmic hybrid nanofluids
Authors: Qamar Mudassar , Yasir Muhammad , Khan Masood
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Hybrid nanofluids have remarkable characteristics for improving the process of heat transfer. The findings suggest hybrid nanofluids are beneficial heat transfer fluids for industrial uses. Therefore, this article aims to investigate the Darcy–Forchheimer flow of Zn-TiO2/H2O hybrid nanofluids through a vertically porous shrinking cylinder.

Design/methodology/approach

The thermal transportation phenomenon of radiated hybrid nanomaterials is studied subject to linear thermal radiation and chemical species with the consequence of non-uniform heat source/sink influence. The controlling flow and energy equations in the form of governing hybrid nanofluids are developed and then converted into ODEs by operating appropriate resemblance variables. Using the impacts of controlling parameters, the behaviors of flow constraints are interpreted graphically.

Findings

The current study’s outcomes reveal that the water-based hybrid nanomaterials show a promising upsurge in heat transfer rate. Similarly, as the mass transfer rate grows, the drag coefficient and energy transfer rate boost, while due to curvature relations, it tends to diminish for drag friction. In an upper branch solution, the flow field is improved by greater porosity parameter values, whereas in a lower branch solution, it deteriorates. Furthermore, the velocity profile depicts the opposite trend for upper and lower branches due to a boost in the mixed convection parameter.

Originality/value

In light of already conducted studies, the relation of internal heat source varying regarding thermal and space in the rheology of hybrid TiO2-Zn/H2O nanofluid possesses intriguing utilization in energy production strategies due to the exhibition of extensive heat energy. The most typical examples of this phenomenon can be observed in nuclear and chemical-reactor power stations, solar power plants for heating and cooling systems, combustion analysis equipment and so on. The current study is devoted to predicting the effect of a varied heat source on the thermal energy characteristics of mixed convective hybrid TiO2-Zn/H2O nanofluid flow through the vertical cylinder.
Free vibration analysis of functionally graded rectangular plates under asymmetric boundary conditions using coupled displacement field method
Authors: Nathi Venkatalakshmi , Kalidindi Krishna Bhaskar , Koppanati Meera Saheb
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the free vibration behavior of a functionally graded (FG) rectangular plate under asymmetric boundary conditions using the coupled displacement field method (CDF), which is based on first-order shear deformation theory (FSDT).

Design/methodology/approach

The material properties of the FG rectangular plate vary continuously in the direction of thickness based on the power-law exponent form. The approach utilizes the CDF method, where the admissible trail functions are assumed for total rotations in both directions that satisfy various boundary conditions. Based on the coupling equations, the function for lateral displacement is derived in terms of total rotations. By utilizing the energy formulations, the undetermined coefficients are derived. The frequency parameters are obtained by minimizing the Lagrangian with respect to the undetermined coefficients.

Findings

The frequencies with respect to different parameters like aspect ratios (a/b), thickness ratio (h/a) and power-law (k) for all edges SCSS and SCSF boundary conditions are found. The effect of the parameters on the obtained frequencies is observed, and these frequency parameters are compared with other literature to validate the derived frequencies. The findings of the present formulation are in excellent accord when compared to other methods in the literature.

Originality/value

The energy formulations in the proposed method contain half the number of undetermined coefficients when compared to the Rayleigh–Ritz (RR) method, which simplifies the vibration problem significantly. The efficacy of the proposed method in finding the frequency parameters lies in reduced computational procedure when compared to other methods.
Leaf and root economics space in Fraxinus mandshurica: A test of the multidimensional trait framework within species
Authors: Da Rihan , He Huaijiang , Zhang Zhonghui , Zhao Xiuhai , von Gadow Klaus , Zhang Chunyu
Published: February 2025

Trait‐based approaches provide a useful framework for characterising plant strategies and predicting plant performance. However, these approaches have mainly been based on species trait means, thus ignoring the important role of intraspecific trait variation.

We measured a suite of leaf and absorptive root traits on individuals of Fraxinus mandshurica in a temperate forest to explore the patterns and drivers of intraspecific trait variation and to evaluate intraspecific trait–performance relationships.

Principal component analyses revealed multiple ecological strategies of plants, via variation in leaf and root traits. We found multidimensional covariation in both leaf and absorptive root traits at the intraspecific level. We found no relationship between leaf and root trait dimensions. Root trait dimensions were mainly influenced by environmental conditions, whereas leaf trait dimensions were mainly influenced by tree size. Absorptive root traits are better predictors of tree performance than leaf traits. We also found that the trait–performance relationship varied with tree size.

Synthesis. Overall, our study emphasises the necessity to pay attention to intraspecific trait variation and correlation and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of how plants respond to multiple abiotic and biotic drivers. Additionally, we highlight the need to combine above‐ and below‐ground traits to improve predictions of plant performance and hence predictions of forest dynamics and ecosystem functions.
Culturable bacteria associated with Anastrepha fraterculus sp. 1: in search of nitrogen‐fixing symbionts with biotechnological potential
Authors: Salgueiro Julieta , Nussenbaum Ana Laura , Marchesini María Inés , Garbalena Micaela Soledad , Brambilla Silvina , Belliard Silvina , Cuadros Fabián , Núñez Mauricio , Yáñez Carolina , Juárez María Laura , Vera María Teresa , Lanzavecchia Silvia Beatriz , Tsiamis George , Segura Diego Fernando
Published: February 2025

Anastrepha fraterculus is a significant fruit fly pest in Argentina and other South American countries. Previous studies showed the key role of gut bacteria in the protection and nutrient assimilation of fruit flies, particularly the importance of the biological fixation of nitrogen (diazotrophy). The presence of diazotrophic bacteria in A. fraterculus sp. 1 has been demonstrated through molecular, culture‐independent methods. This study is aimed to characterize the composition and diversity of culturable gut bacteria of A. fraterculus sp. 1 males from different origins, and explore their metabolic roles, focusing on diazotrophic bacteria. Three male groups were studied: wild‐caught (WW), lab‐reared from wild larvae (WL), and lab‐colony raised (LL). Gut bacteria were collected and characterized via 16S rRNA gene sequencing, with potential diazotrophs screened using selective media (SIL and NFb). Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene mapped potential diazotrophs across the bacterial collection, while biochemical profiling and ARDRA (Amplified rDNA Restriction Analysis) were used to quickly differentiate diazotrophic bacteria. PCR testing for the nifH gene, associated with nitrogen fixation, was also performed. Bacterial diversity was highest in WW, followed by WL, and lowest in LL. In LL and WL, Enterobacter was the most frequent genus, while Klebsiella dominated in WW. Among the 20 SIL+ isolates identified, 10 came from WW, 9 from WL, and 1 from LL. One of these isolates (Enterobacter sp.) was tested as a supplement to the adult diet, without showing a beneficial effect on males pheromone calling behavior. Three isolates were also NFb+; two had the nifH gene. ARDRA was effective for rapid diazotroph discrimination. These findings highlight the potential of gut symbiotic bacteria in eco‐friendly pest management strategies like the sterile insect technique (SIT). By using diazotrophic bacteria, protein requirements in artificial diets could be reduced, cutting costs and improving the affordability of SIT programs.
The Australian Human Resource Management Profession: Current State and Future Challenges in the Post‐COVID World of Work
Authors: Ferrer Justine , Treuren Gerrit J. M. , Holland Peter , Bartram Timothy
Published: February 2025

This paper provides a snapshot of the Australian human resource management (HRM) profession at a unique point in time: in the years immediately after the 2020 COVID‐19 lockdown. Drawing on the Australian Bureau of Statistics Census data and a survey of HR practitioners, we identify the demographic characteristics of the HR profession, their position and the changing features of human resource management within the organisation. These changes have major implications for HRM practice with aspects such as hybrid working rapidly becoming the new normal. From a theoretical perspective, there is a need to explore these issues in the context of a multi‐stakeholder approaches to HRM in this volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) environment.
The association between buprenorphine doses above 16 milligrams and treatment retention in a multi‐payer national sample in the United States, 2014 to 2021
Authors: Stringfellow Erin J. , Dong Huiru , Khatami Seyedeh Nazanin , Lee Hannah , Jalali Mohammad S.
Published: February 2025

Background and Aims

Buprenorphine‐naloxone reduces overdose deaths in people with opioid use disorder (OUD). Treatment retention increases with higher daily doses. No national studies exist on retention's association with 24, 32 and 40 mg. This study aimed to: (1) estimate the effect on treatment retention of buprenorphine‐naloxone doses between 4 and 40 mg compared with 16; and (2) compare the effect on treatment retention of 24, 32 and 40 mg doses.

Design

Observational cohort study in a national, multi‐payer sample of prescription claims (IQVIA) of episodes involving buprenorphine‐naloxone for OUD. Incident episodes started between 1 January 2014 and 31 March 2020, with a washout of 180 days. New episodes started with a 14+ day gap between prescriptions.

Setting

United States of America.

Participants

The sample involved 620 229 episodes across 498 879 patients [42.3% female; mean age 37.9 (standard deviaion: 11.9)] who were dispensed prescriptions of buprenorphine‐naloxone for OUD.

Measurements

The exposure was the maximum daily dose of buprenorphine‐naloxone reached in the first 30 days of an episode, ranging from 4 to 40 mg. The outcome, treatment retention, was defined as having an active prescription at 1, 3, 6, 12, or 18 months. Covariates were age, sex, race and ethnicity, primary payer, and year of episode initiation.

Findings

Daily doses of 24, 32 and 40 mg increased retention compared with 16 mg at 1–18 months [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) range = 1.17; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.14, 1.20 at 18 months to 1.52 (CI = 1.49, 1.54) at 1 month, both for 24 mg]. In pairwise comparisons, 32 mg was favorable to 24 mg at 6, 12 and 18 months [aOR = 1.06 (95% CI = 1.02, 1.10) at 6 months; aOR = 1.09 (95% CI = 1.04, 1.14) at 12 months; aOR = 1.12 (95% CI = 1.06, 1.19) at 18 months], and 40 mg was favorable to 24 mg at 12 and 18 months [aOR = 1.10 (95% CI = 1.01, 1.21) at 12 months; aOR = 1.18 (95% CI = 1.06, 1.30) at 18 months].

Conclusions

Daily buprenorphine‐naloxone doses of 24 mg appear to be associated with increased treatment retention compared with 16 mg and, for 6+ month episodes, 32 and 40 mg appear to be associated with increased retention compared with 24 mg.
Fiscal Projections and Debt Sustainability in Japan
Authors: Katagiri Mitsuru , Koeda Junko , Miyamoto Hiroaki , Nirei Makoto , Unayama Takashi
Published: February 2025

Japan's government debt, currently at approximately 250% of GDP, is the highest among the advanced economies and raises significant concerns about fiscal sustainability. This paper employs debt sustainability analysis to assess Japan's long‐term fiscal sustainability given a backdrop of rising inflation and potential increases in interest rates because of the normalization of monetary policy. Our baseline scenario projects a persistent primary deficit leading to a divergent debt‐to‐GDP trajectory, underscoring the need for some fiscal adjustments.
Standards in wildlife forensic science, with a focus on non‐human DNA analysis
Authors: Frankham Greta J. , Ogden Rob , Baker Barry W. , Ewart Kyle M. , Johnson Rebecca N. , Kuiper Irene , Lindquist Christina D. , Moore M. Katherine , Ndiaye Arame , Webster Lucy M. I.
Published: February 2025

For genetic data to be used in forensic casework, it has to be produced within a controlled environment that follows strict quality standards. However, recent reviews have suggested that wildlife forensic laboratories are behind in the development and adherence to appropriate standards for casework. This paper will address these concerns by documenting the standards that have been produced, highlighting the systems of assessment and competency testing available, and reviewing the status of validated reference genetic databases. Networks of dedicated wildlife forensic scientists across the globe, represented in part by the author list for this paper, illustrate the strides taken to build capacity in this field, and an ongoing commitment to present quality wildlife forensic evidence in court.
A Case of Sweet's Syndrome Presenting With Tongue Ulcerations
Authors: Pawlik Olga , Cowan Timothy , Miller Andrew
Published: February 2025

We describe the case of an 87‐year‐old woman who developed Sweet's syndrome with atypical mucosal involvement following a post‐operative wound infection. The disease manifestations included two large, ulcerated plaques on both sides of the tongue as well as cutaneous lesions. Her lesions resolved promptly with oral prednisolone.
Online semiparametric regression via sequential Monte Carlo
Authors: Menictas Marianne , Oates Chris J. , Wand Matt P.
Published: February 2025

We develop and describe online algorithms for performing online semiparametric regression analyses. Earlier work on this topic is by Luts, Broderick and Wand (2014), Journal of Computational and Graphical Statististics, 23, 589–615, where online mean‐field variational Bayes (MFVB) was employed. In this article we instead develop sequential Monte Carlo approaches to circumvent well‐known inaccuracies inherent in variational approaches. For Gaussian response semiparametric regression models, our new algorithms share the online MFVB property of only requiring updating and storage of sufficient statistics quantities of streaming data. In the non‐Gaussian case, accurate online semiparametric regression requires the full data to be kept in storage. The new algorithms allow for new options concerning accuracy–speed trade‐offs for online semiparametric regression.
Peritoneal Dialysis in Patients Supported by Left Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Darbaidze Zurab , Schmack Bastian , Dogan Günes , Merzah Ali Saad , Gabriel Maria M. , Görler Adelheid , Popov Aron‐Frederik , Weymann Alexander , Ruhparwar Arjang , Schmitto Jan D. , Hanke Jasmin S.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Terminal heart failure is often associated with end‐stage kidney disease. Due to advantages concerning patient independence, peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an alternative to conventional hemodialysis treatment. As left ventricular assist device implantations continuously increase, data on combined PD and LVAD is rare. We present the first and largest cohort study on this exclusive patient cohort.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on patients who underwent LVAD implantation at a high‐volume heart failure center from 2000 to 2024. Adverse events were analyzed according to the INTERMACS classification.

Results

A total of nine patients were identified as undergoing PD on LVAD therapy. Mean age at the time of LVAD implantation was 67 years. Main cause of kidney disease was cardio‐renal syndrome (67%). In all patients, PD therapy was established before LVAD implantation. Mean time on PD before LVAD implantation was 72 months. None of the patients were weaned from dialysis nor were converted to conventional dialysis. Four patients experienced driveline infection. Three patients suffered an infection of their PD catheter. A combination of PD and DL infection was detected in two cases. None of these infections were associated with the same pathogens. Mean survival after LVAD + PD was 56.5 months.

Conclusion

Peritoneal dialysis has advantages over hemodialysis including fewer bloodstream infections, fewer hemodynamic shifts, and the comfort of the ambulant setting. This study illustrates that PD in LVAD patients is feasible and long‐term support up to several years is achievable without major complications.
Severe Neonatal Morbidity Across Gestational Age: Monitoring Infants at High Risk of Mortality
Authors: Razaz Neda , Bolk Jenny , Graham Hillary , Tsamantioti Eleni , Johansson Kari , Persson Martina , Norman Mikael
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study aimed to quantify temporal trends in severe neonatal morbidity (SNM) and examine its association with neonatal mortality, stratified by gestational age.

Methods

This study included all live births in Sweden from 2007 to 2021. SNM types and subtypes were identified based on diagnoses and procedure codes for births ≥ 22 weeks' gestation, including complications within 27 days. Rates were calculated by gestational age, and temporal changes were assessed using rate ratios (RR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI). Adjusted relative risks (aRR) of neonatal death were also estimated.

Results

From 2007 to 2021, 47,048 (2.8%) cases of SNM were identified, rising from 2.2% in 2007 to 3.6% in 2021, mainly due to increased resuscitation/mechanical ventilation rates across all gestational ages. Infections rose among infants born at ≥ 37 weeks (0.59% in 2007–2011 to 0.77% in 2017–2021, RR 1.30, 95% CI, 1.24–1.37), but declined in those born at 22–31 weeks. Neurological morbidity, especially seizures, slightly increased in term and moderately preterm infants. Except for infants born at 22–27 weeks, neonatal mortality risks among infants with SNM were higher in infants with greater gestational ages.

Conclusion

Despite advances in neonatal care, SNM prevalence in Sweden increased from 2007 to 2021 across all gestational ages.
Confucian reflections on the new reproductive model of ROPA
Authors: Ma Yonghui , Chen Hua , Muyskens Kathryn
Published: February 2025

Some countries are legalizing same‐sex marriage and assisted reproductive technologies (ART) for homosexual couples. One unique form of ART, ROPA (Reception of Oocytes from Partner), recently stirred up controversy in China, when a custody dispute between a female same‐sex couple who used ROPA brought this reproductive model into the public eye. Some Western scholars have argued for the legitimacy of ROPA from the perspective of autonomy and reproductive rights. Yet, these arguments do not easily translate into all cultural contexts, as this case will show. There is a need to articulate the ethical considerations of such technologies in light of local philosophical traditions. To that end, this paper will explore the permissibility of ROPA from a Confucian lens, exploring Confucian perspectives on naturalness, filial piety, family and social harmony. Accordingly, we hope to further the discussion of cross‐cultural bioethics.
Preteens social media use: Parents' and children's perceptions of what mediation approaches are used and why
Authors: Rose Sarah E. , Middling Louise R.
Published: February 2025

Many preteens are using social media, despite most platforms having an age requirement of 13‐year‐old. Little is known about how these young users and their parents balance out the opportunities and potential risks of their social media use. To address this gap in our understanding we interviewed nine children (aged 9–12) together with one of their parents to address two research questions: (1) ‘What strategies are used to mediate social media use among preteens?’ (2) ‘What are parents and children's reflections of why different strategies are chosen?’ The findings identify a broader range of mediation strategies than previously discussed in the literature, challenge research suggesting that parents have a typical mediation approach and give new insight into children's role in co‐constructing how the mediation strategies are used. This has implications for future policies, interventions and research into the effectiveness of different mediation approaches.
A bio. tools collection of online resources for GPCR research
Authors: Laasfeld Tõnis , Wunsch Friederike , Apostolakou Avgi E. , García‐Recio Adrián , Pándy‐Szekeres Gáspár , Filipek Slawomir , Niv Masha Y. , Selent Jana , Gloriam David E. , Bermudez Marcel
Published: February 2025

G protein‐coupled receptors are highly complex signal transduction proteins with many potential biomedical applications. Researchers from different fields work together to improve mechanistic understanding of GPCR function and to transfer that knowledge in order to advance therapeutic options. Due to the interdisciplinary nature of GPCR research, many databases and web tools with different types and levels of information are being developed to support scientists in sharing and analysing data. Here, we aim to give an overview of freely available online chemoinformatics and bioinformatics resources specifically designed to aid GPCR research. We compiled a dedicated domain on ELIXIR's bio. tools portal as a continuously updatable repository of GPCR‐related online resources (https://bio.tools/t?domain=gpcr). This provides an up‐to‐date overview of available tools, rather than a static list representing only a snapshot in time. Furthermore, we give some recommendations for developing and using scientific online resources and briefly describe selected databases and web‐based tools for GPCR research.
Friends in Pixels as Motivation to Contribute to Community Innovation Initiatives
Authors: Orelj Ana , Torfason Magnus Thor , Bogers Marcel L. A. M. , Wikhamn Björn Remneland
Published: February 2025

Gamification and video games share more than just a name; they both rely on psychological foundations to create engaging challenges that interest and motivate their users. Consequently, there are still numerous opportunities for cross‐pollination in design, management, treatment of users and so forth. Video games that achieve long‐term success rely on game structures that support community building, but within gamification, this aspect has been less emphasized. This paper draws on a case study of the company CCP Games and the community surrounding their game, EVE Online. By utilizing grounded theory, we examined the evolution of gamers' contributions and motivations. This analysis led to a conceptual model that reveals the stages of a player's development within both the game and its community. Unique insights into the community were gathered from semistructured interviews with lead users, supported by secondary data. This paper contributes to community innovation, gaming and gamification literatures by highlighting how approaches to motivation within innovative gaming communities can be beneficial for gamification. It also has practical implications, as a better understanding of community members and their needs can lead to improved innovation and co‐creation processes in gaming and non‐gaming contexts.
Negation in First Language Acquisition: Universal or Language‐Specific?
Authors: Çabuk‐Ballı Sakine , Mazara Jekaterina , Küntay Aylin C. , Hellwig Birgit , Pfeiler Barbara B. , Widmer Paul , Stoll Sabine
Published: February 2025

Negation is a cornerstone of human language and one of the few universals found in all languages. Without negation, neither categorization nor efficient communication would be possible. Languages, however, differ remarkably in how they express negation. It is yet widely unknown how the way negation is marked influences the acquisition process of first language learners. Here, we investigate whether universal or language‐specific cues are more relevant for the acquisition process. We test to what extent frequency and salience features (morphosyntactic boundedness, position of the negation marker, allomorphy) influence the acquisition of negation. We use naturalistic longitudinal data from 17 children (age 24–36 months) learning nine typologically maximally diverse languages spoken in very diverse cultural contexts ranging from western urban to subsistence farming: Chintang, English, Indonesian, Japanese, Qaqet, Russian, Sesotho, Turkish, and Yucatec Mayan. Distributional analyses show that the amount and type of input of negation that children hear vary considerably across cultures. Despite significant differences in the input that children receive, we observe a universal pattern in the acquisition of negation: Children transition from relatively easy and salient free negators to less salient bound negator morphemes in their use of negation. Our results show that frequency and morphosyntactic boundedness explain the development of flexibility in the acquisition of negation across all of the nine languages. We further find that the developmental path is shaped by the interaction between frequency and language‐specific parameters of salience that are contingent on grammatical features of negation marking in different languages, such as the position of the negation marker and allomorphic variation. Our language‐specific findings highlight cross‐linguistic variation, which reflects cross‐cultural differences in the amount of input of negative utterances children receive. Taken together, this study provides cross‐linguistic evidence for the acquisition of negation and emphasizes the interplay of universal and language‐specific factors in the acquisition process.
Opening Social Interactions: The Coordination of Approach, Gaze, Speech, and Handshakes During Greetings
Authors: Tilston Ottilie , Holler Judith , Bangerter Adrian
Published: February 2025

Despite the importance of greetings for opening social interactions, their multimodal coordination processes remain poorly understood. We used a naturalistic, lab‐based setup where pairs of unacquainted participants approached and greeted each other while unaware their greeting behavior was studied. We measured the prevalence and time course of multimodal behaviors potentially culminating in a handshake, including motor behaviors (e.g., walking, standing up, hand movements like raise, grasp, and retraction), gaze patterns (using eye tracking glasses), and speech (close and distant verbal salutations). We further manipulated the visibility of partners’ eyes to test its effect on gaze. Our findings reveal that gaze to a partner's face increases over the course of a greeting, but is partly averted during approach and is influenced by the visibility of partners’ eyes. Gaze helps coordinate handshakes, by signaling intent and guiding the grasp. The timing of adjacency pairs in verbal salutations is comparable to the precision of floor transitions in the main body of conversations, and varies according to greeting phase, with distant salutation pair parts featuring more gaps and close salutation pair parts featuring more overlap. Gender composition and a range of multimodal behaviors affect whether pairs chose to shake hands or not. These findings fill several gaps in our understanding of greetings and provide avenues for future research, including advancements in social robotics and human−robot interaction.
Corporate Governance Reporting, Disclosures, Monitoring, and Decision‐Making: The Role of Big Data Analytics and Technological Tools
Authors: Karamatzanis Georgios , Tilba Anna , Nikolopoulos Konstantinos
Published: February 2025

Research Question

Using the lens of agency theory, this study seeks to reveal novel qualitative insights on how different governance actors use big data analytics (BDA) and technological tools for governance purposes. It also investigates whether there are any differences in the use of BDA and technological tools between management and the board of directors (BoDs) and whether there are any barriers to adopting new technological tools at the board and managerial levels.

Research Findings

Based on insights from 40 interviews with senior executives at the board and managerial levels across multiple geographical contexts, we reveal three key findings. First, different perspectives exist on using BDA and technological tools to enhance governance between the BoDs and management. This can lead to conflicts if the BoDs receives information from these tools that management has not shared, which further exacerbates the information asymmetry and the agency problem. Second, our findings suggest a paradox where, on the one hand, excessive use of BDA may allow managers to manipulate data or present biased reports. On the other hand, BDA use can simultaneously enable more informed decisions at the board level, even with unclear data. Lastly, we also develop a typology of factors that underpin the use of BDA at the board and managerial levels.

Theoretical Implications

This study's insights deepen the conversation on the use of BDA and technological tools by providing a conceptual framework of a typology of the benefits and barriers to using BDA at both the board and managerial levels. Second, our findings reveal that some of the traditional agency assumptions of board effective monitoring may be more assumed than demonstrated when it comes to effective uses of BDA and new technology.

Policy Implications

Our study suggests that some directors may not be aware of the potential of BDA and technological tools, and many may not understand how it can benefit them. Our findings also reveal the need to educate BoDs and management to keep up with the latest technological tools.
Pulmonary blood volume as a marker of adenosine‐induced cardiac hyperemia: A Rubidium‐82 study
Authors: Lassen Martin Lyngby , Hartmann Jacob Peter , Byrne Christina , Berg Ronan M. G. , Kjær Andreas , Hasbak Philip
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To investigate the efficacy of pulmonary blood volume (PBV) as a marker of the cardiac hyperemic response to adenosine during myocardial perfusion imaging (MPI).

Methods

Forty healthy subjects underwent four consecutive Rubidium‐82 rest/adenosine‐stress MPI: two sessions were conducted without any caffeine consumption (baseline), while the remaining two sessions involved controlled caffeine consumption (arm 1: 100 and 300 mg; arm 2: 200 and 400 mg). We evaluate the ability of the stress‐to‐rest ratio of PBV (PBV ratio) to identify an adequate cardiac hyperemic response. The adequate hyperemic response was defined as a stress myocardial blood flow >2 mL/g/min and a corresponding myocardial flow reserve >68% of the maximum myocardial flow reserve obtained during the baseline scans.

Results

Based on 126 MPI sessions conducted in 40 subjects, the PBV ratio demonstrated a sensitivity of 78% and a specificity of 74% in detecting adequate cardiac hyperemia. The positive predictive value was 95%, while the negative predictive value was 36%.

Conclusion

The PBV ratio permits the identification of adequate hyperemic response with sensitivities and specificities comparable to existing markers.