Research Outcomes Research Articles

The spanish and catalan versions of the kidney patient reported experience measure (PREM) for chronic kidney disease (CKD): cultural adaptation and face validity

BackgroundChronic kidney disease (CKD) is a progressive condition affecting more than 800 million individuals worldwide. Patient Reported Experience Measures (PREMs) are questionnaires aimed at evaluating patients’ experiences with healthcare received. Given that CKD management often involves continuous treatments, capturing patient experiences can guide improvements in care that align with patients’ preferences, making PREMS a relevant tool in CKD management. The Kidney PREM questionnaire was developed in the United Kingdom to measure patient experience across entire service provisions in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). This study aimed to adapt the English version to Spanish and Catalan and assess the face validity of the new language versions.MethodsThe translation process was guided by the International Society of Pharmacoeconomics and Outcome Research (ISPOR) Principles of Good Practice for the Translation and Cultural Adaptation of Patient‑Reported Outcomes Measures and included forward and back translation, cognitive debriefing, and harmonisation between the Spanish and Catalan versions. Face validity was assessed in a sample of Spanish- and Catalan-speaking health professionals.ResultsIn the cognitive debriefing, 9 patients with CKD (4 in Catalan and 5 in Spanish) participated. Fourteen healthcare professionals (2 nurses and 12 nephrologists) assessed the face validity of the Catalan and Spanish versions. Overall, the language used in the original version of the questionnaire did not cause substantial problems for translation into Catalan or Spanish. Patients generally found the questionnaire to be relevant and relatively easy to complete but reported some difficulties with questionnaire design, including the use of ‘skip’ questions. Clinicians and nurses highly rated the questionnaire in terms of relevance (mean score of 8.7 on a 0–10 scale) and acceptability, indicating good face validity, but considered some elements to be lacking, such as the absence of an open-ended question or any queries regarding lifestyle.ConclusionsIt was feasible to produce culturally adapted Spanish and Catalan versions of the Kidney PREM questionnaire, and they showed acceptable face validity. They will be useful tools for furthering research and clinical practice in CKD patients in Spain.

Shaping the Future: A Research Agenda for U.K. Libraries

Objective – This study explored current and future trends in librarianship within the U.K. library and information profession, intending to highlight the most critical for future evidence based research. Research outcomes should resonate across the wider sector and be an indicative stepping stone to collaborative research endeavours by members of the profession at a time when funding is tight, and staff availability is in short supply. Methods – A qualitative Delphi consensus method was chosen for the research, adapted from Paul’s (2008) modified Delphi card-sorting model. Contributions from conference programs and 31 individual experts from the U.K. library and information profession contributed to the generation of current themes and trends impacting their library environments. Data were analyzed by the experts in an incremental manner following the adapted methodology, and consensus was achieved through the process. Results – The findings of the research indicated that there were five significant trends and areas of concern which are impacting our libraries at all levels. These naturally include pressing current concerns such as the impact of artificial intelligence (AI), critical librarianship, and censorship/book banning. Library spaces remain a significant issue for the wider sector. Conclusion – The adapted modified Delphi card-sorting method with three distinct sections to the research proved especially valuable in a study where there were many different approaches to librarianship. The use of conference data to seed the initial set of themes has been shown to be unusual and rarely used in this way before. The process of achieving and reaching consensus illustrated the need for the profession as a whole to work more closely together. The outcome of the consensus research should now be taken forward collaboratively by the library profession, with space and training given to staff across all sectors and grades to engage in evidence based research for the benefit of all.

Application of Youth-Led Participatory Action Research to Examining Adolescent Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights in Ontario: What Can We Learn?

Engaging adolescents and young people as partners in research is increasingly acknowledged as a vital strategy to ensure diverse voices are heard and to catalyze social change. This article, coauthored by adolescent and adult researchers, presents the methodological approach and outcomes of a youth-led participatory action research (YPAR) study in which three teams of youth researchers developed and implemented projects examining equity-related factors affecting adolescent sexual and reproductive health and rights (ASRHR) in Ontario, Canada. Teams of four assigned-female youth researchers aged 16-19 years were recruited from three priority regions through purposive sampling. Selected youth completed a paid 5-day virtual YPAR training. Each youth team, supported by adult research mentors, identified key ASRHR issues in their region and developed a related research question. Each team then determined their study's design, obtained institutional ethics approval, and conducted data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Based on their findings, teams proposed potential solutions and communicated results to multiple stakeholders. Methodologically, the YPAR process amplified youth voices through a social justice-framed approach to examining ASRHR. Centering the perspectives, values, and experiences of youth positively impacted the youth researchers themselves, while yielding results that were relevant, meaningful, adolescent-responsive, and culturally informed. Results from the youth-led projects identified multiple barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health services and products. Policy and practice implications encompassed concerns related to geographical accessibility, equity, service provider competence, and content of sexuality education curricula.

Co-creation of a qualitative fertility research study to understand waiting time experiences through patient engagement

BackgroundInfertility affects an estimated 8 to 12% of the global population and approximately one in six heterosexual couples in Canada. To access fertility services in Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, individuals with an infertility diagnosis wait for extended periods, and this waiting period has been associated with psychological distress. However, this experience of waiting has not been well studied, and several gaps in fertility research exist. The inclusion of persons with lived experience of infertility in the creation of studies related to infertility may improve research outcomes and create patient empowerment.AimTo collaboratively develop a qualitative research project focused on understanding the waiting experiences of patients seeking fertility services in Newfoundland and Labrador, utilizing patient engagement initiatives and involving individuals with infertility experiences.MethodsThree patient partners who represented individuals awaiting fertility services were recruited to be research team members. Patient partners were eligible to participate as research team members if they identified as either female or non-binary (to effectively represent the female and non-binary target population in the co-produced qualitative study) and had lived experience waiting for fertility services in the province. The research team developed a detailed patient engagement plan following the International Association for Public Participation framework (IAP2). Data from research team discussion groups were documented using a meeting minutes template. Two questionnaires from the Public and Patient Engagement Evaluation Tool were employed to assess patient partners’ impact and satisfaction with the research process.ResultsPatient partner involvement and input helped the co-creation process by refocusing the qualitative study’s research aim to empower patients. To accomplish the new research aim, the patient partners refined the study’s methodology through adjustments to the research design, protocol, interview guide, and participant criteria of the upcoming qualitative study. The PPEET analysis demonstrated high satisfaction with engagement and a high perceived value of patient contributions in the co-creation of the research study. In turn, the PPEET results indicated that patient partners had a comprehensive understanding of their roles for engagement and were satisfied with their involvement in the various research activities.ConclusionsIn conclusion, using patient engagement to co-create a qualitative fertility study to understand patients’ experiences while waiting for fertility services resulted in significant changes to the proposed methodology and research priorities and helped address knowledge gaps in existing fertility research. Most importantly, the patient engagement approach helped foster an inclusive and empowering environment for patient partners to contribute to fertility research.

Polymer Analysis and Characterization

This editorial aims to summarize some representative research efforts provided by the authors who contributed to the Polymer Analysis and Characterization section of the Polymers journal in the year 2024. The numerous and high-quality research outputs provided so far clearly indicate that the Polymer Analysis and Characterization section of the Polymers journal is rapidly and continuously growing, stimulating more and more researchers to publish their research outcomes here.

Towards standardization of person-reported outcomes (PROs) in pediatric diabetes research: A consensus report.

Diabetes ranks among the most common chronic conditions in childhood and adolescence. It is unique among chronic conditions, in that clinical outcomes are intimately tied to how the child or adolescent living with diabetes and their parents or carers react to and implement good clinical practice guidance. It is widely recognized that the individual's perspective about the impact of trying to manage the disease together with the burden of self-management should be addressed to achieve optimal health outcomes. Standardized, rigorous assessment of behavioural and mental health outcomes is crucial to aid understanding of person-reported outcomes alongside, and in interaction with, physical health outcomes. Whilst tempting to conceptualize person-reported outcomes as a focus on perceived quality of life, the reality is that health-related quality of life is multi-dimensional and covers indicators of physical or functional health status, psychological well-being and social well- being. In this context, this Consensus Statement has been developed by a collection of experts in diabetes to summarize the central themes and lessons derived in the assessment and use of person-reported outcome measures in relation to children and adolescents and their parents/carers, helping to provide a platform for future standardization of these measures for research studies and routine clinical use. This consensus statement provides an exploration of person-reported outcomes and how to routinely assess and incorporate into clincial research.

EVALUATION OF THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE SUPPLEMENTARY FOOD PROGRAM AS AN EFFORT TO IMPROVE THE NUTRITION OF STUNTING TODDLERS IN THE WORK AREA OF THE PUSKESMAS KARANGDORO

The Indonesian Nutrition Status Survey (SSGI) in 2021 the prevalence of stunting was 24.4% and in 2022 the prevalence decreased by 2.8% to 21.6%. The prevalence of stunting in Central Java has decreased from 20.9% in 2021 to 20.8% in 2022. Karangdoro Health Center in 2023 has a prevalence of stunting with a total of 614 toddlers. One of the efforts in handling stunting cases is through a supplementary feeding program to achieve optimal nutritional status and prevent stunting. This study aims to determine the inputs, processes, outputs, and outcomes in the implementation of the supplementary feeding program for stunting toddlers in the Karangdoro Puskesmas working area, East Semarang District in 2024. Using a qualitative approach with a case study design, 17 informants were selected by purposive sampling. Data collection using in-depth interviews, observation, and documentation was conducted in September 2024. The results of the input, process, output, and outcome research show that the implementation of the PMT program is good, but there are several things that have not run optimally such as the lack of educational media facilities and infrastructure, refusal to provide additional food from families of toddlers, lack of supervision and monitoring from nutrition implementers, as well as program achievements that have not been maximized and the decline in stunting rates that are still fluctuating. The supplementary feeding program in the Karangdoro Puskesmas working area requires improvement and monitoring or supervision from the puskesmas.

Trade Potential in the Bilateral Relationship Between Indonesia-South Korea (Perspective: SITC Agregat 1 Digit) 2013-2022

The Republic of Indonesia and South Korea have engaged in a bilateral cooperation spanning 50 years across diverse domains. Despite the success of this collaboration in augmenting the overall trade between the two nations in alignment with their initial economic objectives, the trajectory of trade development has not consistently followed a linear pattern. This study aims to elucidate the trading dynamics between Indonesia and South Korea from 2013 to 2022. This period was selected as it reflects significant dynamics in bilateral trade relations as well as global economic fluctuations that influenced the trade patterns of both countries. This is achieved through a comprehensive analysis utilizing methodologies such as the Grubel-Lloyd Index, Trade Balance Index (TBI), Trade Complementarity Index (TCI), and Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage Index (RSCA). The research outcomes reveal a high degree of industrial interrelatedness within 10 commodity groups, with 7 exhibiting robust integration and 3 displaying varying degrees of integration ranging from moderate to weak. Despite the sustained high level of compatibility in the trade structure, discernible fluctuations are observed in trade surpluses and deficits. The analysis of the Revealed Symmetric Comparative Advantage Index highlights the absence of significant comparative advantages for Indonesia across the majority of the analyzed commodities. Notwithstanding marginal alterations in the Product Mapping classification, statistical analyses of (IIT), TBI, TCI, and RSCA underscore bilateral trade's nuanced and dynamic nature, with annual fluctuations necessitating focused attention.

Predicting Housing Sale Prices Using Machine Learning with Various Data Split Ratios

Introduction: Recent advancements in technology and data analytics have propelled the rapid growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), which are now central to various industries. These technologies have become essential tools in many sectors, especially in predictive modeling for asset pricing.Objective: From stock markets and rental properties to real estate and second-hand goods, AI and ML algorithms are widely applied to estimate values, optimize pricing strategies, and forecast market trends. Method: By analyzing vast amounts of data, these tools enable more accurate predictions and informed decision-making, revolutionizing traditional approaches to pricing and valuation. In this study, the primary goal is to achieve the most accurate price prediction for houses or apartments by experimenting with different data split ratios.Result: RMSE (House Price) 188965.28 is acceptable as best average price for houses. Conclusions: The value of RMSE of this model are relatively low and also the value Squared Correlation is 64% which is above the threshold of 50%, so the predicted price of this model is seems appropriate, so I have presented this model and its predicted house price as final acceptable value for my research outcome

Constructive Approaches to Analysis of Constructed Identity

The article deals with the main directions and outcomes of identity research along with the expansion of the research field as a whole and concept list. The author explores an interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary approach well established in identitarian research. By building a general outline and defining the comparative context of the analysis of identity in general and political identity in particular, the article explores collective monographs “Integration and disintegration potential of identity in history and modernity” and “Identity. Personality, society politics. New contours of the research field”. The interdisciplinary work of Tomsk scientists is structured into three parts, corresponding to the author’s methodology. This approach enables to characterize the key positions of the authors of each part, comparing them with the arsenal developed in the social and humanities. Scientific and political relevance characterize each of the dimensions chosen by the authors of the monograph, which also determines the high disputability of the proposed topics and assessments. The collective monograph edited by Corresponding Member of the Russian Academy of Sciences I.S. Semenenko has 44 sections written by a team of 32 authors. The article contains an overview of key sections and directions of research, and notes the role of the executive editor, who is one of the leaders of identitarian research in modern Russia. The collective monograph is aimed at promoting the issue of identity not only in scientific discussions, but also in the public space, since identity is considered as an important development resource. Despite all the differences in format, structure, objectives and approaches, these works are united by bringing identity into the mainstream of sociohumanitarian and political science, determining the potential of identity as a resource for social development, integration (or disintegration) of the society. Analysis of the research conducted gives grounds to attribute them to the successful search for an independent vector of domestic science.

Literature Review: Biomedical Information of Animal Treadmill Speed Control Using Proportional Integral Derivative Controller

The use of treadmill exercise in cardiovascular research played a vital role in assessing heart health and determining appropriate exercise regimens for patients. Before applying these regimens to humans, experiments on animals, such as white rats or mice, were conducted to simulate human cardiovascular responses. A specialized treadmill designed for experimental animals was required to determine exercise doses based on individual abilities. This process involved controlling the treadmill speed, which was generated by a conveyor driven by a DC motor. The motor speed was regulated through PID (Proportional Integral Derivative) control, while encoder sensors monitored the motor’s rotation speed, and limit switch sensors determined the exercise duration. This article reviewed the design and implementation of treadmill systems used for animal-based cardiovascular research, focusing on the control of DC motor speed using PID controllers. Previous studies that contributed to the development of such systems were discussed, with an emphasis on the precise control mechanisms required to simulate exercise conditions tailored to the subject's abilities. The treadmill system also incorporated sensors to accurately adjust motor speed and track exercise duration, ensuring alignment with the physiological capabilities of the test subjects. Furthermore, this review explored the potential for advancing research on treadmill control systems, offering insights into how this technology could support medical experts in determining optimal exercise regimens for white rats. These developments helped bridge the gap between animal-based studies and human applications, facilitating improved cardiovascular research outcomes.

Research progress of single-cell RNA sequencing in ophthalmology

Single-cell RNA sequencing is a cutting-edge genomic analysis technique performed at the individual cell level, offering researchers a powerful tool to investigate intercellular differences in gene expression and functional characteristics. In recent years, its application in ophthalmology has expanded rapidly, leading to numerous significant research outcomes. This review focuses on the latest advancements in single-cell RNA sequencing within the field of ophthalmology, summarizing its development, methodologies, advantages, limitations, and clinical relevance. The aim is to provide new insights into the pathogenesis of ocular diseases and the improvement of diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.

Traffic Flow Theory for Waterway Traffic: Current Challenges and Countermeasures

Researchers are increasingly turning to roadway traffic flow theory to propose effective solutions for challenges such as traffic congestion and low efficiency in waterway transportation. However, since roadway traffic flow theory was originally developed for highway transportation, its direct application to waterways raises questions due to the inherent differences between the two modes of transportation. Meanwhile, research results and methodologies from other transportation modes can provide valuable insights for studying waterway traffic flow theory. Addressing these questions is essential for advancing research in this field. This research conducts a comparative analysis to explore the similarities and differences between typical transportation modes and waterway transportation, examining how these distinctions affect the application of existing traffic flow theories. It also categorizes recent research outcomes related to traffic flow theories from various transportation modes based on their relevance to waterway traffic flow theory. The discussion includes the applicability of these models and methods in the context of waterway transportation, considering the unique characteristics of waterway traffic. Finally, this study highlights current challenges in applying traffic flow theories to waterways and offers suggestions for future research.

Analyzing Financial Planning with SPSS Statistical Software

Financial planning is the strategic process of managing and optimizing one's financial resources to achieve long-term goals and secure a stable financial future. It involves assessing current financial situations, setting objectives, and developing a roadmap to attain those objectives through prudent money management. The primary aim is to align income, expenses, investments, and savings in a harmonious manner. Effective financial planning encompasses various aspects, including budgeting, saving, investing, tax planning, retirement planning, risk management, and estate planning. It begins with a comprehensive evaluation of income sources, expenditures, debts, and assets. By understanding individual financial aspirations and risk tolerance, a tailored plan can be crafted to ensure financial security during different life stages. Financial planning provides several benefits, such as enabling individuals to prioritize goals like buying a home, funding education, or retiring comfortably. It also aids in mitigating unforeseen financial hardships through emergency funds and insurance coverage. Regular reviews and adjustments to the plan ensure its relevance over time, accommodating changing circumstances and economic conditions. In essence, financial planning empowers individuals to make informed decisions about their money, work towards their dreams, and navigate economic challenges with confidence. It serves as a dynamic process that empowers individuals to take control of their financial destinies and achieve a more secure and prosperous future. Financial planning research holds significant importance as it enhances our understanding of effective strategies for managing money, investments, and resources. Through empirical studies and analyses, researchers identify trends, evaluate investment options, and uncover innovative approaches to wealth management. This research informs financial professionals, policymakers, and individuals, enabling them to make informed decisions based on evidence and best practices. By exploring the intricacies of financial markets, risk management techniques, and behavioral finance, such research contributes to improved financial literacy, better investment outcomes, and overall economic stability. SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) is a widely used software tool for statistical analysis in various fields, including social sciences, business, and research. It provides a user-friendly interface for data management, manipulation, and advanced statistical computations. Researchers and analysts use SPSS to perform tasks such as data cleaning, descriptive statistics, hypothesis testing, regression analysis, and more. With its graphical outputs and reporting capabilities, SPSS aids in interpreting complex data patterns and making informed decisions. It plays a crucial role in transforming raw data into meaningful insights, facilitating evidence-based decision-making and research outcomes. Evaluation preference taken as Competitive Analysis and Industry Mapping, Cross-Cultural Communication, Global Strategic Partnerships and Alliances, Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) Expertise, Digital Transformation in a Global Context. The calculated Cronbach's Alpha reliability coefficient for the model is .574, suggesting a reliability of 57%. Based on the insights from the literature review, the model with a Cronbach's Alpha value slightly above 58% is suitable for further analysis.

Dynamically Tunable Terahertz Multiple Plasmon‐Induced Transparency and Slow Light in Planar Metamaterials With Rectangular Interrupted Graphene

ABSTRACTA novel planar monolayer graphene metamaterial structure containing rectangular interrupted graphene is proposed. Dynamically tunable multiple plasmon‐induced transparency (PIT) and slow light are obtained within the terahertz band through destructive interference between continuous dark and interrupted bright modes. Two distinct graphene types function as the optical dark and bright modes, and continuous graphene array is the nonradiative dark mode, whereas interrupted graphene array is the broad linewidth bright mode, respectively. Given the existence of graphene structure in the continuous state, continuous graphene Fermi level is dynamic tuned through the simple use of the bias voltage. Expressions of n‐order coupled mode theory (CMT) are correctly deduced, with CMT fitting theoretical analysis being identical to finite‐difference time‐domain numerical simulation based on dual‐ and triple‐PIT results for n = 3 and n = 4 cases, respectively. The continuous graphene Fermi level increases within 0.7–1.1 eV; the group index of the dual‐PIT system is maintained within 475.1–801.6, while that of the triple‐PIT system is 583.3–886.3. Additionally, the maximal group index is as high as 886.3 at 1.1 eV, indicating that an outstanding slow light device is established. Consequently, these proposed structures and research outcomes can guide the design of multichannel optical filters, excellent slow light devices, and dynamically tunable optical modulators.

THE IMPACT OF URBAN MORPHOLOGY ON WIND FLOW IN A SEMI-ARID CLIMATE. CASE STUDY: THE OLD CITY OF CONSTANTINE, ALGERIA

Wind flow studies using wind tunnels can be very costly due to their nature and implementation. An alternative method involves using numerical methods, specifically CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics), which offers significant time and cost savings, along with quicker and more flexible results for meaningful research outcomes. To conduct this research effectively, two software tools were required: Sketch Up for modeling the various urban morphologies, and the Fluent module of Ansys for simulations, which is recognized by the scientific community. The objective of this study was to provide an evaluation of airflow behavior in three samples of different morphologies within the old city of Constantine, namely: the traditional vernacular fabric (Zone A), the hybrid fabric (Zone B), and the colonial fabric (Zone C), based on a series of CFD simulations. The study aimed to assess the various effects of wind flow and velocity through the different typologies of the old city and identify the resulting aerodynamic effects that impact pedestrian comfort.

The autonomous urban passenger ferry milliAmpere2: Design and testing

Abstract Autonomous urban passenger ferries have the potential to enhance urban mobility. However, despite advances in recent years, operating Autonomous Surface Vehicles (ASVs) in urban waterways remains challenging, not least because transporting passengers raises safety standards to the fore. This paper presents the autonomous urban passenger ferry “milliAmpere2,” developed by the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, Norway. Design features and test results are presented, covering the investigation of five research questions related to human-centered design, batteries and propulsion, autonomous navigation and control, remote monitoring and control, and risk assessment. A three-week public trial of the “milliAmpere2,” held in 2022, helped to synthesize research outcomes in the context of its operational environment in a confined and well-trafficked urban waterway. The “milliAmpere2” project adds to a growing number of use cases demonstrating the viability of ASVs for passenger transportation. Outstanding challenges for future research are identified, including human-autonomy teaming, remote management of fleet operation, and interactions with passengers, traffic, and remote operators.

Causality between gut microbiota, immune cells, and breast cancer: Mendelian randomization analysis.

The association between gut microbiota (GM) and breast cancer (BC) has been studied. Nevertheless, the causal relationship between them and the potential mediating factors have not been clearly defined. Therefore, in this study, Mendelian randomization analysis (MR) was employed to explore the causal relationship between 473 GM and BC, as well as the mediating effect of potential immune cells. In this investigation, we availed ourselves of the publicly accessible summary statistics from the genome-wide association study to undertake two-sample and reverse Mendelian randomization analyses on GM and BC, with the intention of clarifying the causal association between GM and BC. Subsequently, through the application of the two-step Mendelian randomization analysis, it was revealed that the relationship between GM and BC was mediated by immune cells. The stability of the research outcomes was verified via sensitivity analysis. Mendelian randomization analysis elucidated the protective impacts of 8 genera on BC (such as Phylum Actinobacteriota, Species Bacteroides A plebeius A, Species Bifidobacterium adolescentis, Species CAG-841 sp002479075, Family Fibrobacteraceae, Order Fibrobacterales, Class Fibrobacteria, and Species Phascolarctobacterium sp003150755). Additionally, there are 23 immune cell traits related to BC. Our research findings showed that the species Megamonas funiformis was associated with an increased risk of BC, and 11.20% of this effect was mediated by CD38 on IgD+ CD24-. Likewise, HLA DR on CD33br HLA DR+ CD14- mediated the causal relationship between Species Prevotellamassilia and BC, having a mediating ratio of 7.89%. This study clarifies a potential causal relationship between GM, immune cells, and BC and provides genetic evidence for this causal connection. It offers research directions for the subsequent prevention and treatment of BC through the interaction between GM and immune cells, and provides a reference for future mechanistic and clinical studies in this field.

Introduction to the Special Issue: ‘The public good of higher education: A comparative study’

AbstractThe Special Issue provides the first consolidated outcomes from a large cross-country research project, conducted by the UK-based Centre for Global Higher Education, on the contributions of higher education to public good outcomes. The public good outcomes of higher education are outcomes other than private pecuniary benefits like individual earnings, employment or social status: (a) shared collective social goods, such as the contributions of higher education to social tolerance, or democratic governance and (b) non-pecuniary individual goods such as the lifetime contribution of higher education to the subjectification (self-formation) of students and to their socialisation as citizens in relational settings. This non-pecuniary domain is underplayed or hidden in those economic policies in the Anglosphere that imagine social life in exclusively transactional terms and model students as consumers, universities as businesses and higher education systems as competitive markets, suggesting the need to move beyond the Anglosphere. The research studies reported here compare approaches to public good outcomes (or their nearest lexical equivalents) in Chile, China, Finland, France, Japan and Poland, as well as Canada and England. This introduction explains the project and presents the country studies, also acknowledging the limitations of the research. It concludes with a summary of the research outcomes across the eight countries, including similarities and differences, and a generic transpositional analysis that integrates the separate findings into a single overall picture of the contribution of higher education to the public good in the eight countries.

Design science in operations management: A review and synthesis of the literature

AbstractThe application of design science (DS) in the field of operations management (OM) is believed to be lopsided, with most studies pursuing theory‐to‐practice rather than practice‐to‐theory applications of DS. However, this belief has remained untested at the level of the entire body of DS applications in OM. This paper therefore reviews and synthesises 66 peer‐reviewed DS‐based publications (2003–2024) and presents a novel configurational framework. We analyse the DS applications through the lens of this framework to conclude that most of these applications contribute incrementally to extant theories but make a rather revelatory contribution to practice. This analysis points at four main reasons: DS is still an emerging research methodology, which is not labelled as such in many applications; OM researchers often assume that problem‐solving is the primary purpose of DS, which inhibits the delivery of more theoretical research outcomes; the lack of methodological guidelines to support the transition from specific to generalised knowledge; and the rather fragmented body of knowledge on DS, which is dispersed across multiple sources and different domains. This paper offers a configurational framework for DS to guide OM scholars in their efforts to explore scientific discoveries beyond problem‐solving.