Ethical Research Articles

The role of professional judgment in Indian real estate valuation: insights from lending industry experts

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the role of professional judgment in property valuation within India’s lending sector by exploring how different market and cultural factors influence valuation practices.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods research approach comprising interviews of 15 highly experienced property valuation professionals to understand nuances of property valuation and find important factors which require their professional judgment, based on which a questionnaire survey is administered to 137 valuers from various parts of India. A relative importance index (RII) analysis and a mixed model ANOVA were then used to evaluate the significance of different factors affecting property valuation.FindingsThe results reveal the factors which require professional judgment of property valuation professionals. Zoning and development plans, legal due diligence, regulatory compliance, real estate regulatory authority and supply–demand dynamics are top five factors. Also, there was no statistically significant difference between less experienced property valuers and their more experienced counterparts.Practical implicationsThe findings reveal important factors which require professional judgment while doing valuation in opaque property markets of India. A study reveals difficulties that valuation teams working for banks and NBFCs face due to challenges and variation in Indian real estate markets. Furthermore, it stresses the need for continuous professional development and adherence to ethical standards among valuation professions.Originality/valueThis research offers an all-inclusive study about the things that influence subjective judgment in Indian property valuation and provides insight into the intricate intertwining of regulatory, market and cultural aspects in the process.

EXPRESS: Supplier Slip-Ups: How Malpractices Can Bite into Restaurant Market Value

Ethical, environmental, and human rights standards are critical issues in the tourism and hospitality industry. In this context, restaurants must choose third-party members—such as suppliers—that align with their quality and sustainability standards, especially because these third-party members may encounter challenges related to food safety, ethical misconduct, environmental matters, and human rights violations. This study analyzes whether the market holds restaurants accountable for the shortcomings of their suppliers, even when the restaurant has not directly participated in or caused these problems. Based on signaling theory and the associative network memory paradigm, this study finds that supplier issues negatively affect the market value of restaurants, with indirect linkage exerting a greater impact than direct linkage, which informs these theories by underscoring the importance of memory and associations dynamics.

前言：爲什麽應該重視公共健康倫理學的研究？

LANGUAGE NOTE | Document text in Chinese; abstract also in English. Public health is widely recognised as a public or collective good with non-rivalrous and non-exclusive traits. Nonetheless, the advancement of public health often demands resource allocation necessitating adherence to ethical standards in governmental policy and administrative practices. The diverse ethical principles of different cultures lead to diverse conceptualisations and implementations of effective policies to enhance public well-being. Hence, comparative cross-cultural analyses can offer valuable insights into pertinent matters. This collection of thematic essays and commentaries within the journal introduces and investigates key topics in research on public health ethics.

Patient Centered, Clinical, Radiographic, and Biochemical comparative evaluation of Transgingival and Conventional Flapped Implant surgical technique: A randomized controlled trial.

A multifaceted study compared transgingival (flapless) implant placement with conventional flapped placement, which employed clinical, radiographic, biochemical, and patient-centered parameters. The study was approved by the institutional ethics committee and was conducted according to the ethical standards in the 1964 Declaration of Helsinki and its amendments. Seventy-five implants were placed, 37 by flapless method (group 1) and 38 by flapped method (group 2). The Group 1 subjects underwent flapless implant placement, while Group 2 underwent flapped implant placement. The modified plaque index was significantly higher in group 2 at 6 weeks (Mann Whitney test, z = -3.08, p = .002). Modified sulcus bleeding index was also significantly higher in group 2, up to the 12-week follow-up (Mann Whitney test, z = -4.63, p < .001). Crestal bone loss revealed no significant intergroup difference. Under biochemical evaluation, matrix metalloproteinase-8 (MMP-8) was significantly higher in flapped implants up to the 6-week follow-up. The patient-reported questionnaire-based acceptability assessment showed that the flapless technique is better regarding the perceived duration of the surgery and post-operative comfort.

The Role of Artificial Intelligence and Big Data Analytics in Shaping the Future of Professions in Industry 6.0: Perspectives from an Emerging Market

Digital technologies are fundamentally transforming professions by altering roles and redefining competencies across all sectors. The progression from computerization to digitization, digitalization, and now digital transformation has been driven by the widespread integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics (BDA). Industry 4.0 introduced smart automation and connectivity, Industry 5.0 emphasized human–machine collaboration and personalization, and Industry 6.0 now integrates advanced technologies with sustainability and ethical considerations, exerting a profound influence on many professions. This transformation is especially significant in emerging markets, where AI and BDA are overhauling traditional practices and enhancing efficiency but also introducing new challenges. Focusing on the accounting profession, this paper examines AI’s and BDA’s dual impact on the roles and skill sets of professional accountants (PAs). Specifically, it addresses how these technologies shape the activities, interactions, roles, and competencies of PAs in an Industry 6.0 context, as well as the opportunities and challenges that arise. Given the public interest role of PAs in ensuring accuracy and transparency in financial reporting, understanding their perceptions and experiences of digital transformation is essential. The findings reveal that while AI and BDA drive efficiency gains and open strategic pathways, they also risk eroding core traditional accounting competencies, reducing client engagement, and raising ethical concerns such as data security and privacy—all of which can undermine service quality and, ultimately, public trust. These insights underscore the need for responsible AI and BDA integration, particularly in emerging markets, where digital literacy gaps and regulatory limitations may slow adoption. This study offers actionable recommendations for policymakers, educators, and organizations, highlighting the importance of ethical standards, targeted training, and sustainable practices to preserve the relevance and integrity of the accounting profession in an increasingly technology-driven era.

Leveraging technology and artificial intelligence to revolutionize French language proficiency: A comprehensive framework for modern curriculum design

The integration of technology and artificial intelligence (AI) in language education has the potential to revolutionize how French is taught and learned in the modern era. This paper explores a comprehensive framework for modernizing the French language curriculum, emphasizing the transformative role of AI-driven tools in enhancing learner engagement, accessibility, and fluency. It examines advancements such as adaptive learning systems, AI-powered tutors, speech recognition, and gamification, highlighting their ability to personalize instruction and foster immersive learning experiences. Key features of a technology-driven curriculum, including alignment with CEFR standards and inclusivity for diverse learners, are discussed. The paper also addresses challenges such as cost, infrastructure limitations, and ethical concerns related to data privacy and the role of human educators. Recommendations focus on teacher training, infrastructure investment, and collaborative policy development to ensure the successful implementation of AI-enhanced curricula. By leveraging AI's potential while maintaining ethical standards, this approach aims to make French language education more efficient, interactive, and inclusive, meeting the demands of a globalized world. Keywords: Artificial Intelligence, French Language Education, Technology-Driven Curriculum, Adaptive Learning Systems, Immersive Learning, Educational Innovation.

Unveiling The Impact of Perceived CSR: Mediating Roles of Organizational Identification and Prestige on Unethical Behavior

Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) is widely recognized for promoting positive outcomes such as employee engagement, job satisfaction, and organizational loyalty. However, this study explores the less examined potential of CSR to foster pro-organizational unethical behavior (UPB)—unethical actions employees justify as necessary for the benefit of the organization. Drawing on data from 301 employees across various industries, the study demonstrates that perceived CSR positively influences UPB, mediated by organizational identification. Employees who strongly identify with their socially responsible organization may rationalize unethical behaviors as necessary to protect or promote the organization’s interests. Moreover, perceived organizational prestige amplifies the effect of CSR on organizational identification, further increasing the likelihood of UPB. These findings highlight the dual-edged nature of CSR, revealing that while it can enhance organizational identification, it may also encourage ethical compromises when employees over-identify with the organization. The study offers important insights for organizations to balance CSR initiatives with clear ethical standards to mitigate the risks of UPB.

Ethics in Business Research and Innovation. An Institutionalisation Framework

AbstractProgress in Responsible Research and Innovation (RRI) has proved to be a decisive step in many institutions, following the guidelines and encouragement of the European Union and academic proposals. One of the dimensions recent studies have considered central for making progress in the practical development of theoretical proposals for RRI is the institutionalisation of reflexivity at the core of the organisations that develop RRI. This is particularly the case with the promotion of processes that facilitate the establishment of ethical standards throughout the research and innovation cycle. This study attempts to deal with discourses about the institutional reflexivity formulated in the past 15 years based on RRI from a critical-ethical point of view. It does so using the business ethics theory of discourse. This analysis shows that, for this institutional reflexivity to be possible, it is necessary to base the RRI model on a critical-ethical horizon and design an ethical governance system that allows its practical development.

Ethical concerns for theoretical research in linguistics: issues and best practices

Abstract Although formal, e.g., generative, approaches to linguistic inquiry are primarily concerned with the analysis of structural patterns, ethical concerns for the elicitation and documentation of empirical data that motivate these analyses persist. In this article, we explicate the challenges to be met and responsibilities that formal linguists must take in data collection, documentation, and analysis to ensure high ethical standards. We direct our attention especially toward research on heritage, minoritized and endangered languages, which have enriched the theoretical landscape in recent decades. Finally, we show that, when proper ethical concerns are recognized and accounted for in formal research, this collective body of research in its current form is also fully capable of respecting the integrity of individual speakers and their communities.

Nursing as a Public Trust Profession

Introduction. Nursing is widely recognized as a public trust profession due to its emphasis on professionalism, ethical standards, and patient-centered care. The profession demands adherence to legal regulations and ethical norms, fostering trust through its critical role in healthcare delivery. This study aims to explore patients' perceptions of nursing as a public trust profession, focusing on key factors such as professionalism, ethical compliance, and personal attributes of nurses. Objective. The primary goal of this study was to assess patients' opinions regarding nursing as a public trust profession and identify the specific attributes and competencies that underpin this perception. Methods. The study employed a diagnostic survey method using a structured questionnaire. A total of 100 patients from a healthcare facility in the Mazovian Voivodeship participated. Statistical analyses, including descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, t-tests, ANOVA, correlation analyses, and factor analysis, were conducted using IBM SPSS 29. Results. The findings revealed that 95% of respondents identified professionalism and high engagement in care as crucial factors for trust. Empathy and compassion were also rated highly (95%), along with confidentiality (90%). The chi-square test showed significant differences in the perception of professionalism (Chi2 = 140.80, P &lt; 0.001), and ANOVA demonstrated the impact of nurses' attitudes on trust (F = 116.93, P &lt; 0.001). Factor analysis indicated that professionalism and engagement were the primary components influencing trust perceptions, explaining 100% of variance. Conclusions. Professionalism, ethical conduct, and interpersonal skills are pivotal in establishing nursing as a public trust profession. These attributes are essential for patient trust and align with global standards in nursing practice. The study underscores the need to maintain high ethical and professional standards to sustain public trust in the profession.

ADHERENCE TO THE WHO CRITERIA ON DRUG PROMOTION LITERATURE: AN EVALUATION OF PHARMACEUTICAL ADVERTISING AT A TERTIARY HEALTHCARE FACILITY IN NORTH INDIA

Objective: This research seeks to evaluate how closely drug promotional materials at a tertiary care center in North India follow the WHO’s ethical standards. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was carried out, involving the organized gathering of drug promotion literatures (DPLs) from the healthcare institution over a specific timeframe. A checklist, derived directly from the WHO’s guidelines for ethical drug promotion, was used to evaluate the DPLs’ content. The data were thoroughly examined to determine the degree of adherence to the WHO standards. Results: In an analysis of 149 DPLs, all included both generic and brand names. Information on the amount of active ingredient and therapeutic applications was present in 91% and 86% of the DPLs, respectively, and dosage forms appeared in 91%, with the remainder depicted pictorially. Only 32% of DPLs described the pharmacological mechanism. Details about side effects and significant adverse drug reactions, as well as precautions and warnings, contraindications, and major drug interactions, were included in 19%, 16%, 18%, and 11% of DPLs, respectively. The manufacturer’s name was mentioned in 72% of the documents, while the manufacturer’s address appeared in 26%. References to scientific literature were included in just 29% of the DPLs. Conclusion: This research highlights the need for improved oversight and regulation of drug promotion activities within the healthcare facility. Less than 20% of DPLs provide information on drug safety. Compliance with the WHO standards is crucial for ethical drug promotion, protecting patient care, and maintaining the integrity of healthcare services. Cooperative initiatives among healthcare facilities, pharmaceutical firms, and regulatory agencies are urgently required.

Review of the Computerized Cognitive Retraining Program for Children with Learning Disabilities

This research explores the design and effectiveness of Computerized Cognitive Retraining Programs for children with learning disabilities such as dyslexia, dyscalculia, and dysgraphia. It aims to help children who have cognitive difficulties by giving them interactive, technology-based activities concentrating on critical abilities such as memory, concentration, and problem-solving skills. The program takes into account each child’s progress and offers a customized learning experience that keeps students interested and avoids cognitive overload. CCRP motivates young learners and improves retention by using gamification, visual feedback, and immediate response mechanisms. Performance measures, such as task completion rates and memory recall, are used to gauge the program’s efficacy, and educators and caregivers receive individualized progress reports. The program is also designed to be inclusive with an interface that can easily be accessed by kids regardless of their skills. It is highly adherent to ethical standards that guarantee protection of data and parental permission. Based on the findings, CCRP has immense potential in enhancing academic and cognitive performance among kids, giving learning-disabled children a scalable and affordable solution. Future research should focus on the long-term impact of such programs on academic performance and their refinement for extension to more people

It’s Not about the Data: Reflections on the Uses and Abuses of Data Collection from an Applied Research Center

Applied social scientists are committed to improving social life through the appropriate use of data. I found in my work with a university-based applied social science research center that clients engage in data collection efforts for a variety of reasons other than a commitment to using the data that result. This reflection is a cautionary tale to encourage applied social scientists to consider ways of promoting meaningful data use and to avoid compromising professional or ethical standards.

The Relevance of David B. Resnik's Ethical Principles in Academic Writing and Research for Students

This study investigates the application of David B. Resnik's ethical principles—honesty, objectivity, integrity, carefulness, and openness—in academic writing and research among students. Utilizing a mixed-methods approach, surveys and student paper analyses were conducted to measure awareness, adherence, and challenges. The results indicate that 95% of students are aware of general ethical principles in academic writing, yet only 70% are familiar with Resnik’s specific framework, leaving 30% unaware of these detailed concepts. Regarding practice, 100% of respondents consistently cited sources correctly, but 66% admitted to paraphrasing without proper attribution, showing gaps between ethical knowledge and application. Challenges identified include maintaining honesty (51%), avoiding plagiarism (29%), ensuring openness (11%), and minimizing bias (9%), often influenced by external pressures and resource limitations. To address these issues, students suggested practical solutions such as workshops, seminars, and digital guides to enhance understanding and compliance with ethical standards. This study emphasizes the importance of ethics education, institutional policy enhancements, and accessible resources to strengthen the implementation of academic integrity, bridging the gap between awareness and consistent ethical practice.

Transforming Governance: A Systematic Review of AI Applications in Policymaking

This systematic literature review examines the transformative applications of artificial intelligence (AI) in policymaking, exploring its potential to enhance decision-making, public engagement, and governance effectiveness. Employing a rigorous research methodology, this review analyzed scholarly articles from Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed databases using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) framework, ensuring methodological transparency and reproducibility. The final dataset of 22 articles was synthesized into four key themes: (i) AI in policy development and implementation, which focuses on data-driven decision support in policy formulation; (ii) AI in public administration and governance, highlighting AI’s role in improving public sector efficiency and resilience; (iii) ethical and regulatory aspects of AI in policymaking, which addresses critical issues like transparency, privacy, and bias; and (iv) applications of AI in specific policy domains, encompassing areas such as public health, environmental sustainability, and education. Findings indicate that AI can support evidence-based policymaking by facilitating real-time data analysis, scenario modeling, and enhanced public participation. However, challenges persist, particularly concerning ethical considerations, algorithmic accountability, and regulatory frameworks that ensure AI is implemented responsibly and equitably. This review underscores the need for interdisciplinary collaboration, ethical standards, and robust governance frameworks to address these challenges and maximize AI’s benefits in policy development and implementation. The synthesis of insights from diverse policy contexts provides a foundation for future research, encouraging exploration of responsible AI integration in policymaking to advance public trust, accountability, and policy effectiveness).

THE INTEGRATION OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI) INTO EDUCATION SYSTEMS AND ITS IMPACT ON THE GOVERNANCE OF HIGHER EDUCATION INSTITUTIONS

Objective: The research aims to explore the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within educational systems and analyze its impact on the governance of higher education institutions (HEIs), particularly focusing on decision-making, data protection, and administrative efficiency. Theoretical Framework: The article presents key theories on the transformative role of AI in educational governance, particularly focusing on how AI-driven data analysis and automation enhance decision-making and administrative efficiency. It also addresses theories related to ethical governance, emphasizing data protection and equitable access within higher education institutions. Method: The research methodology in this article is based on a qualitative approach, combining a review of existing literature with case studies of AI implementation in educational contexts. This approach provides in-depth insights into the effects of AI on governance within higher education institutions. Results and Discussion: The research findings highlight that AI integration in higher education governance improves decision-making and operational efficiency through data-driven insights and automation. However, it also reveals challenges, particularly in data protection, ethical concerns, and shifting power dynamics within institutions. The study emphasizes the need for responsible and transparent AI governance to ensure balanced benefits across stakeholders. Research Implications: This research underscores the need for higher education institutions to adopt AI responsibly, balancing its potential to enhance governance and decision-making with rigorous ethical standards, especially in data privacy and equity. It calls on policymakers and administrators to develop frameworks that ensure AI-driven processes remain transparent, inclusive, and aligned with educational values. Originality/Value: The originality of this research lies in its focus on how AI specifically transforms governance in higher education institutions, going beyond general applications of AI in education to address ethical, operational, and decision-making challenges unique to institutional governance. It provides a nuanced perspective on balancing innovation with responsibility in an academic setting.

Cerebral Death: Unraveling the Mystery of the Silent Mind

The permanent loss of all brain stem functions, such as breathing, awareness, and cranial nerve reflexes, is known as brain stem death (BSD), and it presents a significant medical and ethical issue. While other bodily functions, such as heart activity and circulation, can be maintained with medical intervention, BSD is defined by the cessation of brain stem activity. The key characteristic that distinguishes BSD from other conditions, such as coma or a persistent vegetative state, is the complete and irreversible loss of brain stem function—a critical control centre for basic physiological processes. Diagnosing BSD requires strict clinical criteria and diagnostic testing to confirm the full and permanent nature of the condition. This typically involves a comprehensive neurological examination, assessment of cranial nerve reflexes, and confirmation through additional tests, such as cerebral blood flow studies or electroencephalography (EEG). A diagnosis of BSD carries significant ethical and legal implications, particularly in relation to organ donation, as it often plays a role in identifying potential donors. The ethical considerations surrounding BSD include its impact on families, the distinction between death and end-of-life care, and the challenges posed by varying legal and cultural perspectives. It highlights the importance of a clear diagnosis, obtaining informed consent, and adhering to established medical protocols to uphold human dignity and ethical standards. As medical technology advances and societal views evolve, the discussion around brain stem death continues to be a critical issue in both bioethics and modern medical practice.

Beyond the Surface: Investigating Ethical Hacking for Cyber Defense

Ethical hacking is basic for proactively distinguishing and settling security vulnerabilities in data frameworks. As cyber dangers gotten to be more modern, solid defense components are more critical than ever. This paper examines how ethical hacking enhances cybersecurity by combining traditional penetration testing with modern machine learning techniques. A case study on using the insulation timber algorithm for anomaly discovery demonstrates its effectiveness in relating implicit security breaches in network business. The paper also underscores the need to follow legal and ethical guidelines in hacking practices. Integrating ethical hacking with advanced analytical methods helps organizations better detect and address vulnerabilities, ultimately strengthening their defenses against cyberattacks. In addition to technical strategies, the paper emphasizes the importance of adhering to legal and ethical standards in all hacking activities. Ethical hacking must be conducted within a framework of clear guidelines and permissions to ensure it remains a constructive force for improving security rather than becoming a potential threat itself. Integrating ethical hacking practices with advanced analytical methods allows organizations to develop a more resilient defense posture, facilitating the early detection and mitigation of vulnerabilities and reducing the risk of successful cyberattacks.

Advancing Corporate Social Responsibility in AI-driven Human Resources Management: A Maturity Model Approach

Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the corporate environment has been the subject of several current social debates of many scientific studies in reshaping human resource management (HRM) practices. There is a significant research gap in understanding how artificial intelligence (AI) can be ethically and effectively integrated into human resources management (HRM), particularly in relation to corporate social responsibility (CSR). This study aims to address this gap by proposing a maturity model to assess and guide the responsible implementation of AI in HRM practices. The research goal focuses on how AI can be aligned with CSR principles to ensure ethical, transparent, and socially responsible usage in organizational settings. The methodology includes a comprehensive review of 52 academic papers, employing bibliometrics, network analysis, and thematic content analysis to explore the interplay between AI, CSR, and HRM. These analyses allowed the identification of key ethical concerns and challenges in AI-driven HRM practices, such as bias in AI algorithms, data privacy issues, transparency, and the need for technical proficiency among HR professionals. The findings reveal a five-level AI maturity model, each stage representing progressive alignment with CSR principles. Organizations at lower maturity levels tend to have ad-hoc AI implementations with minimal CSR focus, while those at higher levels demonstrate full integration of ethical AI practices. Additionally, the study highlights the importance of transparency, accountability, and employee empowerment as critical elements for advancing AI maturity in HRM. This research contributes by offering organizations a practical tool to assess and enhance their AI-driven HRM processes through a CSR lens. It also provides a foundation for future research on strategic policy development, ethical AI governance, and continuous improvement in the integration of AI in HRM. Scholars are encouraged to explore these areas further, particularly in understanding how AI can foster not only organizational efficiency but also social responsibility and ethical standards.

Modern methods of personal identification

The article presents a review of current scientific research of using digital computer technology in the practical dental identification, analyzes the main problems of their implementation and actual use. Modern aspects of diagnostics and complex planning of identification research are aimed at increasing the efficiency of solving complex medico-legal issues. The application of digital dental technologies has improved the effectiveness of the process of human identification, as well as the reliability of the provided forensic evidence. Significant advantages of the digital photo and X-ray analysis methods in comparison with traditional ones, as well as the advantages of digital facial 3D-reconstruction and dental identification, indicate the potential benefits of using artificial intelligence technology in order to improve the solution of identification tasks. At the same time, data provided by the specialized literature reveal the imperfections of intelligent methods related to discrimination, transparency, accountability, privacy, data security, ethical standards and other important aspects. In this regard, opinions are expressed about the need to partially limit, up to complete rejection of the use of intelligent computer systems to formulate final conclusions and make final decisions on the results of expert studies. In spite of this, leading specialists of the industry are more and more often cautiously declaring the inevitability of virtual evolution of self-developing artificial intelligence systems designed for autonomous existentialism. Referring to the data of modern scientific research, it is worth noting the growing interest of the scientific community in the issues of implementing digital innovative solutions to ensure the effective solution of everyday scientific and practical tasks. Thus, the potential for the successful application of digital technologies to solve the problems of personal identification and improve the quality of forensic evidence provided remains quite promising.