bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effect of audit committee effectiveness on climate change disclosure commitment: international evidence
Authors: Dahmen Israa , Chouaibi Jamel 
Published: November 2024

PurposeClimate change is becoming one of the biggest and most pressing environmental challenges of the last century. As such, the board of directors and its sub-committees need to recognise and address climate change as a potential strategic risk for their companies, using a sustainable approach that prioritises this risk over other business-related risks. In this framework, this paper aims to examine the influence of audit committee characteristics and its effectiveness on the commitment to voluntary climate change disclosure.Design/methodology/approachOur sample covers 403 non-financial companies from 48 countries. These companies belong to the largest greenhouse gas (GHG) emitting sectors, namely oil and gas, chemicals and coal. We have used data from company responses to the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) survey for the years 2015–2021. The total number of observations for the seven-year periods is 2,821 firm years. Audit committee characteristics examined are size, independence, gender diversity and number of meetings. Regarding the effectiveness of the audit committee, it is measured using a composite index developed from its individual characteristics.FindingsOur findings show that the number of meetings held by the audit committee affects positively the commitment to the CDP initiative. However, the effects of audit committee size, independence and the presence of women are statistically insignificant. Regarding the effectiveness of the audit committee, our results show that it has a positive and significant effect on the commitment to the CDP initiative. In addition, the results demonstrate that the audit committee diversity, measured using the Herfindahl index, had a positive and significant effect on climate change disclosure commitment.Practical implicationsThis study offers new insights into the role of the audit committee in improving climate change disclosure. The findings indicate that companies can improve their sustainability and social responsibility by establishing an effective audit committee within their board of directors. Furthermore, investors and regulators must give great importance to the characteristics of the audit committee and its roles and duties in the fight against climate change.Originality/valueIn contrast to previous research, this study examines, simultaneously, the impact of individual characteristics and the effectiveness of the audit committee on the commitment to climate change disclosure.
Corporate social responsibility and employee retention: an impact assessment of innovative leadership
Authors: Aman-Ullah Attia , Saraih Ummi Naiemah , Mehmood Waqas , Ariza-Montes Antonio , Han Heesup 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This research aims to investigate the influence of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on employee retention among banking employees in Pakistan, along with the moderating effect of innovative leadership on the relationship between CSR and employee retention.

Design/methodology/approach
The nature of this study is quantitative, where structured questionnaires were used to collect the data from 327 employees working in different banks. The sample size was calculated using the Krejice and Morgan model. Data was analysed through SPSS and smart-PLS 4.

Findings
Results of this study indicate that CSR has a significantly positive relationship with employee retention. Study results also suggest that innovative leadership has a significant positive relationship with employee retention and that innovative leadership moderates the relationship between CSR and employee retention.

Research limitations/implications
This study is limited to banking employees; therefore, future studies can be extended to other service sectors such as telecom and private educational institutions. This study model can also be tested in other industries as well. Furthermore, longitudinal studies can also be conducted in future.

Originality/value
This study is different from the previously available studies based on the following grounds. Firstly, this tests the relationship of CSR and employee retention through stakeholder and social exchange theories on a micro-level perspective of CSR. Secondly, the role of innovative readership as a moderator has not yet been explored in the existing studies, whereas this study is enriching the literature on this topic.
Sharia-supervisory board’s characteristics and green banking disclosure: exploring from Islamic banking in MENA countries
Authors: Ardianto Ardianto , Cahyono Suham , Noman Abu Hanifa , Sulaiman Noor Adwa 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to investigate the extent to which the characteristics of Sharia supervisory boards (SSB) in banking institutions impact the disclosure of information pertaining to green banking practices.

Design/methodology/approach
A comprehensive dynamic panel data analysis approach was applied to a data set comprising Islamic banks from 15 countries in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region, covering the period from 2012 to 2022. In addition, a series of robustness and endogeneity analyses were conducted to ensure the consistency of the main findings.

Findings
This study shows that the characteristics of the SSB significantly impact the green banking disclosure practices of Islamic banks. Specifically, the proportion of board members who hold multiple SSB positions and the presence of foreign board members exhibit a negative and significant effect on green banking disclosure. Conversely, the size of the SSB is positively and significantly associated with green banking disclosure. Thus, the extent of green banking disclosure in Islamic banks is likely to increase with the size of the SSB. However, an increase in board members’ external commitments and a higher proportion of foreign board members are associated with a decline in green banking disclosure. Further analysis supports these findings, confirming their consistency across different contexts.

Research limitations/implications
The findings of this study highlight the critical role that the composition and characteristics of the SSB play in shaping the green banking practices of Islamic banks in MENA countries. These insights provide valuable guidance for policymakers and Islamic financial institutions aiming to strengthen sustainability practices while adhering to Shariah principles. As green banking becomes increasingly crucial in the global financial landscape, optimizing the SSB’s composition could be a key driver in advancing the environmental goals of Islamic banking in the MENA region.

Practical implications
Islamic banks in the MENA region should focus on optimizing their SSB composition to enhance green banking disclosure. Increasing the size of the SSB can positively influence disclosure practices. However, banks should manage board members’ external engagements to ensure they have sufficient focus on green initiatives. Strategic recruitment of foreign members with a commitment to sustainability, coupled with targeted training programs, can further improve disclosure.

Originality/value
Specific SSB characteristics such as size and foreign board members influence disclosure of green banking, which previous studies did not conduct research on.
Driving circular transformation: evaluating and enhancing enablers of circular supply chains
Authors: Yadav Sonali , Singh Dinesh 
Published: November 2024

PurposeThe present study identifies and analyses the circular supply chain (CSC) enablers concerned with industrial organizations to understand the interconnectedness of CSC enablers.Design/methodology/approachConducting a thorough literature review and utilizing a hybrid approach involving Robust-Best-Worst-Method (RBWM) and Interpretive Structural Modeling (ISM) methodologies, we assess the intensity and connectivity of Circular Supply Chain Enablers (CSCEs), incorporating expert opinions. Additionally, we employ fuzzy-MICMAC analysis to determine the driving-dependent power of the CSCEs.FindingsThe study identifies 30 CSCEs in a framework, excluding three low-impact enablers at the initial stage. An additional 30 CSCEs are introduced to enhance the framework for improved implementation. The Fuzzy MICMAC study underscores the high instability of four enablers in the linkage quadrant, signaling that minor adjustments negatively impact organizational performance.Originality/valueThis work holds practical significance for industry researchers and practitioners alike. The initial study introduces a structural hierarchy of CSCEs, aiming to provide a model for academics studying CSC and facilitate its practical implementation.
Examining the integration of SDGs in a first-year methodology course: a case study in social education by admission pathway
Authors: Vancea Mihaela , Contreras-Higuera Williams 
Published: November 2024

Purpose
This study aims to analyse how Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are incorporated into a first-year Social Education methodology course at a Spanish public university. It assesses the impact on students’ understanding of sustainability and its relevance to socio-educational research and future careers, considering different admission pathways.

Design/methodology/approach
A case study on integrating the SDGs into a methodology course, which involved 110 students. Students’ knowledge and perceptions were measured before and after the teaching experience using an online questionnaire. Differences based on admission pathways [Advances Vocational Training Programs (CFGS) and University Entrance Exam (PAU)] were explored.

Findings
Initially, students had a low understanding of sustainability and SDGs, with those entering through PAU having an even lower understanding. However, both groups showed significant improvement after the teaching experience. Interestingly, the pattern of differentiation was inverse, with PAU students showing a higher level of SDG knowledge compared to CFGS students by the end of the course. While students recognised the importance of SDGs in their careers, their personal involvement with them in daily life appeared moderate.

Research limitations/implications
The assessment tool, based on validated surveys, aims for better accuracy in measuring university students’ knowledge and perceptions of sustainability. Future research may broaden its scope to assess effectiveness in different courses and among diverse student groups.

Practical implications
The variations in student knowledge and perception about sustainability and the SDGs, before and after the teaching experience, and across different admission pathways, highlight the important role of higher education institutions in achieving equity and shaping future change agents’ perspectives.

Originality/value
These findings reveal how innovative educational experiences promote sustainability and social responsibility among university students, emphasising the crucial role of ongoing assessment in ensuring effective sustainability and equity education.
Decentralising digital humanities: exploring blockchain technology and “web3” for the Sloane Lab and Towards a National Collection (TaNC)
Authors: Valeonti Foteini , Vlachidis Andreas , Nyhan Julianne , Bikakis Antonis , Kotarski Rachael , Jovanovic Philipp 
Published: November 2024

PurposeAdvancements in Internet technologies greatly influence digital humanities, yet research investigating web3 (i.e. the blockchain-based, decentralised web) within that domain remains limited. The purpose of this paper is to address that gap, presenting a state-of-the-art synthesis of web3-related technologies for digital humanities infrastructures and exploring associated risks and challenges.Design/methodology/approachFollowing a review of the literature, the authors scope out ways blockchain technology, peer-to-peer decentralised storage and other web3 technologies could support digital humanities infrastructures, especially in the context of digital cultural heritage. In this discussion, particular cognisance is given to the needs and aims of the UK’s Arts and Humanities Research Council funded Towards a National Collection programme, which seeks to break down the barriers that exist between the UK’s cultural heritage collections.FindingsWeb3 introduces novel tools and processes that could benefit digital humanities infrastructures, enabling decentralisation and facilitating open access data storage. Yet, significant barriers to adoption remain, such as the requirement for highly specialised technical expertise. Risks and challenges must also be considered prior to any use, including legal, ethical and technical safeguards.Research limitations/implicationsThis study explores opportunities and risks of web3 for digital humanities, through the lens of digital cultural heritage infrastructures and their requirements, including decentralised storage and persistent identification. It does not provide a holistic overview of all web3 technologies.Practical implicationsThe authors identify practical uses of web3 technologies for digital humanities projects, outlining potential applications concerning decentralised storage and persistent identification.Originality/valueThe authors push forward current knowledge and literature on the intersection of web3 and digital humanities, outlining also practical recommendations for scholars, practitioners and funding organisations.
Keeping silent or playing good citizen? Differential mechanisms of negative workplace gossip on targets reactions
Authors: Wang Xiaochen , Xia Bingnan , Bi Weilong 
Published: November 2024

PurposeBased on the Sociometer Theory, this study aims to develop a comprehensive framework explaining how and when negative workplace gossip triggers distinct responses, including employee silence and compulsory citizenship behavior (CCB).Design/methodology/approachTwo scenario-based experiments and a field survey were conducted to examine hypotheses. Study 1 (N = 149) manipulated workplace negative gossip and assessed the mediating effects of state self-esteem. Study 2 (N = 217) manipulated workplace negative gossip and consideration of future consequences (CFC) to verify the stability of the mediating mechanism and test the moderating effect of CFC. Study 3 (N = 321) tested the whole research model.FindingsThe findings indicate that negative workplace gossip decreases state self-esteem, resulting in silence among employees with low levels of CFC, while inducing CCB through state self-esteem among employees with high levels of CFC.Originality/valueThis study not only extends the research of negative workplace gossip by exploring its multifaceted impact on employee responses but also highlights the role of personality traits in shaping individuals’ response strategies.
Instrumental variables in the cost of illness featuring type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kole Kyle , Zick Cathleen D. , Brown Barbara B. , Curtis David S. , Kowaleski‐Jones Lori , Meeks Huong D. , Smith Ken R. 
Published: November 2024

AbstractObjectiveTo ascertain how an instrumental variables (IV) model can improve upon the estimates obtained from traditional cost‐of‐illness (COI) models that treat health conditions as predetermined.Study Setting and DesignA simulation study based on observational data compares the coefficients and average marginal effects from an IV model to a traditional COI model when an unobservable confounder is introduced. The two approaches are then applied to real data, using a kinship‐weighted family history as an instrument, and differences are interpreted within the context of the findings from the simulation study.Data Sources and Analytic SampleThe case study utilizes secondary data on type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) status to examine healthcare costs attributable to the disease. The data come from Utah residents born between 1950 and 1970 with medical insurance coverage whose demographic information is contained in the Utah Population Database. Those data are linked to insurance claims from Utah's All‐Payer Claims Database for the analyses.Principal FindingsThe simulation confirms that estimated T2DM healthcare cost coefficients are biased when traditional COI models do not account for unobserved characteristics that influence both the risk of illness and healthcare costs. This bias can be corrected to a certain extent with instrumental variables. An IV model with a validated instrument estimates that 2014 costs for an individual age 45–64 with T2DM are 27% (95% CI: 2.9% to 51.9%) higher than those for an otherwise comparable individual who does not have T2DM.ConclusionsResearchers studying the COI for chronic diseases should assess the possibility that traditional estimates may be subject to bias because of unobserved characteristics. Doing so may be especially important for prevention and intervention studies that turn to COI studies to assess the cost savings associated with such initiatives.
PhyloForge: Unifying Micro‐ and Macroevolution With Comprehensive Genomic Signals
Authors: Wang Ya , Dong Wei , Liang Yufan , Lin Weiwei , Chen Junhao , Henry Robert , Chen Fei 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTThe dimensions of phylogenetic research have expanded to encompass the study of large‐scale populations at the microevolutionary level and comparisons between different species or taxonomic units at the macroevolutionary level. Traditional phylogenetic tools often struggle to handle the diverse and complex data required for these different evolutionary scales. In response to this challenge, we introduce PhyloForge, a robust tool designed to seamlessly integrate the demands of both micro‐ and macroevolution, comprehensively utilising diverse phylogenomic signals, such as genes, SNPs, and structural variations, as well as mitochondrial and chloroplast genomes. PhyloForge's innovation lies in its capability to seamlessly integrate multiple phylogenomic signals, enabling the unified analysis of multidimensional genomic data. This unique feature empowers researchers to gain a more comprehensive understanding of diverse aspects of biological evolution. PhyloForge not only provides highly customisable analysis tools for experienced researchers but also features an intuitively designed interface, facilitating effortless phylogenetic analysis for beginners. Extensive testing across various domains, including animals, plants and fungi, attests to its broad applicability in the field of phylogenetics. In summary, PhyloForge has significant potential in the era of large‐scale genomics, offering a new perspective and toolset for a deeper understanding of the evolution of life. PhyloForge codes could be found in GitHub (https://github.com/wangyayaya/PhyloForge/), and the program could be installed in Conda (https://anaconda.org/wangxiaobei/phyloforge).
A Case of Lung Cancer Exhibiting Pleoymorphic Carcinoma Transformation Resistance Following Treatment With Osimertinib That Was Successfully Treated Using Local Ablative Treatment
Authors: Nagai Yoshiaki , Ohta Hiromitsu , Amari Hikari , Tahara Hiroki , Masuda Kosuke , Maeda Yuki , Shiihara Jun , Okabe Naota , Yamaguchi Yasuhiro 
Published: November 2024

ABSTRACTVarious studies have reported resistance mechanisms and treatment methods after epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment; however, treatment policies have not yet been established, and few cases have reported transformation to pleomorphic carcinoma (PC) as the resistance mechanism. Herein, we report the case of a 66‐year‐old woman who was diagnosed with Stage 4A lung adenocarcinoma (cT2bN0M1b) through bronchoscopic biopsy. Genetic profiling revealed an EGFR L858R mutation; therefore, osimertinib was administered as the first‐line therapy and achieved a partial response. After 46 months of osimertinib treatment, the metastases remained under control; however, the primary tumor enlarged and was therefore resected. Pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of PC. Genetic testing of the surgical pathology specimen showed that the EGFR mutation L858R was retained, and the patient was considered drug‐resistant owing to the histologic transformation to PC. The patient continued osimertinib therapy and had no recurrence at 9 months postoperatively. Transformation to PC following osimertinib administration is rare, and we report this unique case. This study was approved by the Jichi Medical University Saitama Medical Center Ethics Committee (S24‐073), and written informed consent was obtained from the patient.
Localization and expression analysis of sperm‐specific glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase in bull spermatozoa with contrasting sperm motility
Authors: Kumar K. Naresh , Veerappa Vedamurthy G. , Kumaresan Arumugam , Lavanya Maharajan , King J. Ebenezer Samuel , Sulochana M. , Patil Shivanagouda , Jeyakumar Sakthivel 
Published: November 2024

AbstractBackgroundPoor sperm motility leading to male infertility has become a profound crisis to be addressed in this contemporary era. In many cases, the origin of poor sperm motility remains unexplained. Few studies reported the indispensable role of sperm‐specific glyceraldehyde 3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDHS) in sperm motility, however, studies on GAPDHS are severely confined.ObjectivesThe present study aimed to assess the localization patterns, expression levels, and enzyme activity of GAPDHS in normal and asthenozoospermic bulls and to examine their association with sperm functional parameters.Materials and methodsThe bull semen samples were classified into high‐motile and low‐motile groups (n = 7 per each group) based on the ejaculate rejection rate. Sperm kinetic parameters were assessed using computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA). Sperm viability, mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP), reactive oxygen species (ROS), and intracellular calcium levels were measured through flow cytometry. Subsequently, GAPDHS localization was observed via immunocytochemistry. The expression levels and enzyme activity of GAPDHS were estimated using western blotting and a GAPDHS activity assay kit.Results and discussionSperm viability, MMP, ROS, and live sperm intracellular calcium levels did not differ significantly between high and low motile groups. A significant positive correlation was found between MMP and sperm viability, whereas no significant association was found between MMP and sperm progressive motility. The GAPDHS was localized in the principal piece, head‐midpiece junction, and at the acrosome region of bull sperm. GAPDHS localization intensity, expression levels, and enzyme activity were found significantly (p < 0.05) higher in the high motile group than in low motile group. Furthermore, we noticed a significant positive correlation between GAPDHS activity and sperm kinetic parameters.ConclusionsThe analysis of GAPDHS localization patterns, expression levels, and enzyme activity indicated its potential role in sperm motility, suggesting that GAPDHS could serve as a candidate biomarker for sperm motility and male fertility.