Research Roadmap Research Articles

Harmonizing ML and Databases: A Symphony of Data (VLDB 2024 Keynote)

Large language models (LLMs) are rapidly transforming the landscape of computing and daily life, demonstrating immense potential across diverse applications like natural language processing, machine translation, and code generation. This talk delves into the impact of LLMs on database research. Specifically, we'll examine how LLMs are fueling innovation in natural language interfaces for data interaction, highlighting current limitations and advocating for semantic data models and enhanced context to improve the accuracy of these solutions. Drawing inspiration from LLMs, we'll introduce a novel paradigm for database cost modeling, leveraging pre-trained models and fine-tuning techniques. We'll share our early-stage prototype, initial results, and outline a research roadmap highlighting numerous exciting challenges in this evolving field.

A Review and Prospect of Research on Inclusive Leadership

Inclusive leadership is recognized as an effective form of leadership. This study reviews and organizes the existing research on inclusive leadership. First, it examines the definitions and methodologies used in measuring inclusive leadership. Second, it synthesizes the theoretical frameworks underpinning existing studies on inclusive leadership. Subsequently, the study scrutinizes findings concerning the antecedents and consequences of inclusive leadership. Antecedent research encompasses individual attributes and the organizational environment, while investigations into effects include impacts on individual employees, teams, and broader organizational outcomes. Finally, the study outlines prospective avenues for further inquiry into inclusive leadership. This endeavor is invaluable to scholars by providing a foundational literature framework for future investigations into inclusive leadership, offering a roadmap for ongoing research in this domain.

Designing a More Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Food Supply: A Roadmap for Future Food and Agricultural Research

Designing a More Sustainable and Environmentally Friendly Food Supply: A Roadmap for Future Food and Agricultural Research

Factors Influencing the Adoption of Distributed Ledger Technology in Developing Countries: An Examination of Nigerian Construction Industry

ABSTRACT The construction industry is known for its intricate and fragmented nature, often plagued by inefficient processes and data management challenges. Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) presents a promising solution, potentially revolutionizing data sharing, transparency, and security. However, the successful adoption of DLT necessitates a comprehensive understanding of its implications, effective organizational changes, and strategic implementation strategies. This study examines the critical factors in adopting DLT into construction processes and workflows. A mixed-methods approach was employed, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with key stakeholders in the Nigerian construction industry. The findings emphasize the importance of educating staff about DLT’s benefits, strategic planning aligned with business goals, collaboration with DLT experts, universities, and industry partners, careful planning and robust security measures, and organizational changes such as dedicated DLT teams and engaging suppliers. Recommendations include prioritizing continuous improvement, investing in training programs, and exploring integration with emerging technologies. The study provides empirical insights into DLT adoption challenges and strategies, synthesizing these findings with existing literature, and offers a roadmap for construction firms, policymakers, and researchers seeking to leverage DLT for enhanced efficiency and innovation in the construction industry.

An in-depth analysis of membrane distillation research (1990–2023): Exploring trends and future directions through bibliometric approach

This bibliometric analysis offers a comprehensive investigation into membrane distillation (MD) research from 1990 to 2023. Covering 4389 publications, the analysis sheds light on the evolution, trends, and future directions of the field. It delves into authorship patterns, publication trends, prominent journals, and global contributions to reveal collaborative networks, research hotspots, and emerging themes within MD research. The findings demonstrate extensive global participation, with esteemed journals such as Desalination and the Journal of Membrane Science serving as key platforms for disseminating cutting-edge research. The analysis further identifies crucial themes and concepts driving MD research, ranging from membrane properties to strategies for mitigating membrane fouling. Co-occurrence analysis further highlights the interconnectedness of research themes, showcasing advancements in materials, sustainable heating strategies, contaminant treatment, and resource management. Overlay co-occurrence analysis provides temporal perspective on emerging research trends, delineating six key topics that will likely shape the future of MD. These include innovations in materials and surface engineering, sustainable heating strategies, emerging contaminants treatment, sustainable water management, data-driven approaches, and sustainability assessments. Finally, the study serves as a roadmap for researchers and engineers navigating the dynamic landscape of MD research, offering insights into current trends and future trajectories, ultimately aiming to propel MD technology towards enhanced performance, sustainability, and global relevance.

Global Research Network Analysis of Edible Coatings and Films for Preserving Perishable Fruit Crops: Current Status and Future Directions.

Edible coatings and films have gained substantial attention as a promising and sustainable technology for fruit preservation. This study employed a bibliometric analysis to identify core research areas, research gaps, and emerging trends, thus providing a comprehensive roadmap for future research on the use of edible coatings and films for fruit quality preservation. The study involved 428 research articles related to edible coatings and films for fruit preservation published in the Scopus database before 06 October 2023. Utilizing Vosviewer and R for network analysis, we generated network visualization maps, research performance statistics, and identified key contributors and their collaborations. The results show the evolution of this field into three distinct phases: Initial Exploration (1998-2007), Growing Interest (2008-2015), and Rapid Expansion (2016-2023). The study revealed contributions from 1713 authors, with the first article appearing in 1998. Brazil and China emerged as the most productive countries in this domain. The core research areas focus on biomaterials, functional properties, and natural substances. Identified research gaps include pilot and industrial-scale applications, the lack of a regulatory framework and safety guidelines, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI), particularly deep learning and machine learning, in this field of edible coatings and films for fruit preservation. Overall, this study offers a scientific understanding of past achievements and ongoing research needs, thus aiming to boost a broader adoption of edible coatings and films by consumers and the food industry to preserve fruit quality, thereby enhancing their societal and environmental impact.

Roadmap for Research and Scholarship in General Surgery Residency Training: Report of The Research Subcommittee of Blue Ribbon Committee II on Surgical Education and Training.

To review the current state of research training during surgical residency and make recommendations commensurate with current surgical training and academic environment. Research training has been a mainstay of academic surgical programs, yet the scientific disciplines have evolved significantly from the traditional years of bench research. It is time to reconsider how research training should prepare surgeons for future academic practice and ensure the foundational knowledge of research evidence. As part of the Blue Ribbon Committee II, a research subcommittee was tasked to make recommendations on research training during surgical residency. Our eight-member panel brought diverse perspectives of the roles and goals of research training. We also sought input from a convenience sample of current and recent surgical residents on impact of research training during their residency. We identified a lack of a common framework and foundational research training for all surgical residents. Participation in dedicated years of scholarly activity helped trainees meet several professional and personal goals. The lack of an integrated, dedicated research track may dissuade some medical school graduates from pursuing surgery. We recommend incorporating a minimum standard for all trainees and flexibility in dedicated scholarly training to meet the needs of future academic surgeons.

A Comprehensive Review on Brain–Computer Interface (BCI)-Based Machine and Deep Learning Algorithms for Stroke Rehabilitation

This literature review explores the pivotal role of brain–computer interface (BCI) technology, coupled with electroencephalogram (EEG) technology, in advancing rehabilitation for individuals with damaged muscles and motor systems. This study provides a comprehensive overview of recent developments in BCI and motor control for rehabilitation, emphasizing the integration of user-friendly technological support and robotic prosthetics powered by brain activity. This review critically examines the latest strides in BCI technology and its application in motor skill recovery. Special attention is given to prevalent EEG devices adaptable for BCI-driven rehabilitation. The study surveys significant contributions in the realm of machine learning-based and deep learning-based rehabilitation evaluation. The integration of BCI with EEG technology demonstrates promising outcomes for enhancing motor skills in rehabilitation. The study identifies key EEG devices suitable for BCI applications, discusses advancements in machine learning approaches for rehabilitation assessment, and highlights the emergence of novel robotic prosthetics powered by brain activity. Furthermore, it showcases successful case studies illustrating the practical implementation of BCI-driven rehabilitation techniques and their positive impact on diverse patient populations. This review serves as a cornerstone for informed decision-making in the field of BCI technology for rehabilitation. The results highlight BCI’s diverse advantages, enhancing motor control and robotic integration. The findings highlight the potential of BCI in reshaping rehabilitation practices and offer insights and recommendations for future research directions. This study contributes significantly to the ongoing transformation of BCI technology, particularly through the utilization of EEG equipment, providing a roadmap for researchers in this dynamic domain.

Relational turbulence during family transitions: a lifespan perspective and roadmap for future research

ABSTRACT This essay answers recent calls to explore the application of Relational Turbulence Theory (RTT) within family relationships (Knobloch, L. K., Solomon, D. H., Theiss, J. A., & McLaren, R. M. [2018]. Relational turbulence theory: Understanding family communication during times of change. In Engaging theories in family communication [pp. 255–266]. Routledge). Although family relationships are perceived to be contextually distinct from romantic partnerships given the perceived involuntary nature of these relationships, we argue relational turbulence manifests in family members’ relational experiences and communication processes, at multiple levels of family systems, and across various types of family transitions that evoke the experiences of relational uncertainty, interdependence processes, biased cognitions, emotional reactivity, polarizing communication, and relational turbulence among various members of the family system. In this essay, we present a roadmap for research that both integrates existing insights and suggests lines of future inquiry regarding relational turbulence in families.

A survey on reinforcement learning-based control for signalized intersections with connected automated vehicles

ABSTRACT Recent advancements in connected automated vehicles (CAVs) and reinforcement learning (RL) hold significant promise for enhancing intelligent traffic control systems. This paper conducts a systematic review of studies on RL-based urban traffic control at signalised intersections, highlighting the significant impact of CAVs on traffic control performance improvement. We first review the fundamental concepts of RL algorithms, establishing a foundational understanding for subsequent RL-based traffic control methods. We then review recent progress in RL-based traffic signal control using CV/CAV trajectory data, RL-based CAV trajectory planning, and the cooperative control of both traffic signals and CAVs at signalised intersections. Our aim is to provide researchers with a comprehensive roadmap for future research in RL-based traffic control at signalised intersections.

Unraveling the role of digital leadership in developing digital dynamic capabilities for the digital transformation of firms

PurposeWith the emergence of the digital era, the role of digital leaders in developing digital capabilities and driving their firms towards digital transformation has gained significant attention. Digital dynamic capabilities involve continuous engagement of leaders in sensing, seizing, and transforming activities needed to digitally transform their firms. However, little attention is given toward the role of digital leadership in developing digital dynamic capabilities. We seek to develop an understanding of the role of digital leadership in building digital dynamic capabilities for successful digital transformation.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted a systematic literature review and looked at relevant articles using Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Scopus databases with key search items being “digital leadership”, “dynamic capabilities”, “digital dynamic capabilities,”. We used AND, OR operators in between the key terms to search for the relevant articles.FindingsOur conceptual framework and propositions demonstrate the digital leader's role in building three core dynamic capabilities: digital sensing (technological trends, digital scouting, digital vision, future interpretation, and digital strategies), digital seizing (organizational agility and digital portfolio), and transforming (redesigning internal structures and ecosystem partnerships) for successful digital transformation.Originality/valueThis study pioneers an integrated framework that elucidates the role of digital leadership in fostering digital dynamic capabilities essential for successful digital transformation. While previous research has examined digital leadership and transformation in separate silos, our work bridges this gap by defining and dissecting three core capabilities—digital sensing, digital seizing, and transforming. By doing so, we offer both academic and practical communities a nuanced understanding of how digital leadership shapes dynamic capabilities. The study serves as a foundational roadmap for future research and offers actionable insights for organizations striving to navigate the complex landscape of digital transformation.

Sustainability communication in marketing: a literature review

Purpose This study aims to explore the foundations and current research streams of sustainability communication (SC) within the marketing field through a comprehensive analysis of the existing literature. Furthermore, it identifies promising areas, gaps, and guides for future contributions in SC literature. Design/methodology/approach This study relies on a sample of 103 articles published in high-ranked marketing journals. Through co-citation and qualitative thematic analyses, it examines a network over the foundations and central themes in current literature. Findings In the marketing field, the foundations of SC rest on institutional and stakeholder theories, corporate social responsibility (CSR) communication and its effectiveness, green advertising, ethical consumerism and marketing strategies, and social marketing for sustainable consumption. Additionally, the analysis reveals four core current themes: reporting sustainability, sustainability advertising, consumer reactions, and promoting pro-sustainable behaviour. Research limitations/implications This paper defines the foundations and boundaries of SC in marketing based on a comprehensive evaluation of existing research. By doing so, it offers a valuable reference for future research, enabling scholars to understand better the past and current state of SC in marketing and to identify areas for further investigation. Practical implications Businesses and marketers can use the findings to develop more effective SC strategies and to focus on the main topics that require their attention. Social implications This research is of societal importance because it deepens our understanding of SC in marketing. It illuminates uncharted territory and helps decision-makers across sectors create a more sustainable future. In essence, this research enriches society by promoting sustainability awareness and guiding the development of practices that emphasize the value of SC. Originality/value This study advances previous literature reviews on SC in the marketing field by providing a roadmap for researchers to delve deeper and contribute to the field of SC in marketing, advancing our understanding of the importance of organizations effectively communicating their sustainability strategies to stakeholders.

Analysis of Articles on the Nature of Science between 2015 and 2022

It is evident that knowing the nature of science is a requirement for “science education”, which serves as the basis of conscious citizenship. For this reason, articles concerning the nature of science that were published in the Web of Science and EBSCOhost database between 2015 and 2022 were examined in this study in order to establish a broad framework and develop a research road map. A qualitative design approach and a descriptive review method were used. The keywords "Nature of Science (NoS) and Science Education" and "Teaching of Nature of Science (NoS) and Science Education" were used. The majority of the 107 articles on the nature of science that have been examined preferred qualitative research designs, and "Science & Education" is the publication that has published the most articles on the subject in 2017-2018-2020, pre-service teachers were mostly preferred as the sample group, it was applied to groups of “21-50” people as the sample group, open reflective approach was preferred as the teaching approach, the most commonly used method-technique was “discussion”, the activities used in the articles were generally standard, semi-structured interview form was preferred as the evaluation tool and “VNOS-C” was deployed as the questionnaire. Studies may be conducted within the boundaries of further lectures on the topic and internationally published theses.

Transforming the remittance industry: harnessing the power of blockchain technology

PurposeThis study employs an interpretivist approach to investigate how blockchain technology can transform the remittance industry.Design/methodology/approachWe collected data from blockchain experts with extensive experience, compellingly demonstrating the revolutionary impact of blockchain technology on the remittance sector.FindingsDespite experiencing rapid growth, the global remittance sector still faces challenges such as high costs and lengthy transaction times. However, blockchain technology, known for disrupting emerging industries, offers a decentralized and secure mechanism for containing, storing and managing information. By leveraging rapid block confirmations, blockchain reduces settlement times in remittance transactions, enabling value transfers between parties with just a crypto wallet.Research limitations/implicationsThe implications of this study are profound for theorists, as it validates existing theoretical frameworks, identifies specific pain points and explores exciting opportunities presented by blockchain technology. Additionally, we provide a roadmap for future research and innovation, bridging theory and practice and setting the stage for advancement, fostering knowledge, innovation and the successful integration of blockchain technology in the remittance industry.Originality/valueAnalysis highlights a unanimous consensus among experts regarding the transformative potential of blockchain technology in the remittance industry. This consensus serves as a strong impetus for practitioners to swiftly adopt blockchain-based solutions, capitalizing on opportunities such as stable coin issuance, elimination of intermediaries in foreign exchange trading, access to liquidity and the exploration of new business models. Successfully addressing challenges like congestion and limited reach will ensure seamless integration.

Consumer acceptance of robotic surgeons in health services

Over the course of the preceding half-century, specific advancements in robotic technologies have been assimilated into the continuum of human life in a seamless manner, demonstrating the profound impact of robotics on society. Nevertheless, the actual consumer response to service robots remains a subject of ongoing research, with scant attention paid to it thus far. This study focuses on the potential factors influencing the acceptance of robots in the realm of health services. Specifically, a model has been developed to explain individuals’ willingness to use a robot as a surgeon to correct visual impairment in one eye. The Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLSc-SEM) technique is deployed to validate the proposed hypotheses. The model proposed exhibits a robust explanatory power concerning the intention to utilize the robot surgeon, as evidenced by a high R-squared value of 0.817. The findings show the influence of effort expectancy, performance expectancy, social influence, and perceived risk on the intention to adopt robot services. However, the emotional dimensions, specifically pleasure and arousal, were not observed to exert any significant impact on the intention to employ the proposed robot surgeon. The proposed and tested model serves as a roadmap for future research and holds significant practical implications for the industry, paving the way for a more robot-friendly future in health services.

A review of digital twins and their application in cybersecurity based on artificial intelligence

The potential of digital twin technology is yet to be fully realised due to its diversity and untapped potential. Digital twins enable systems’ analysis, design, optimisation, and evolution to be performed digitally or in conjunction with a cyber-physical approach to improve speed, accuracy, and efficiency over traditional engineering methods. Industry 4.0, factories of the future, and digital twins continue to benefit from the technology and provide enhanced efficiency within existing systems. Due to the lack of information and security standards associated with the transition to cyber digitisation, cybercriminals have been able to take advantage of the situation. Access to a digital twin of a product or service is equivalent to threatening the entire collection. There is a robust interaction between digital twins and artificial intelligence tools, which leads to strong interaction between these technologies, so it can be used to improve the cybersecurity of these digital platforms based on their integration with these technologies. This study aims to investigate the role of artificial intelligence in providing cybersecurity for digital twin versions of various industries, as well as the risks associated with these versions. In addition, this research serves as a road map for researchers and others interested in cybersecurity and digital security.

Casimir Effect in MEMS: Materials, Geometries, and Metrologies-A Review.

Casimir force densities, i.e., force per area, become very large if two solid material surfaces come closer together to each other than 10 nm. In most cases, the forces are attractive. In some cases, they can be repulsive depending on the solid materials and the fluid medium in between. This review provides an overview of experimental and theoretical studies that have been performed and focuses on four main aspects: (i) the combinations of different materials, (ii) the considered geometries, (iii) the applied experimental measurement methodologies and (iv) a novel self-assembly methodology based on Casimir forces. Briefly reviewed is also the influence of additional parameters such as temperature, conductivity, and surface roughness. The Casimir effect opens many application possibilities in microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) and nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS), where an overview is also provided. The knowledge generation in this fascinating field requires interdisciplinary approaches to generate synergetic effects between technological fabrication metrology, theoretical simulations, the establishment of adequate models, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Finally, multiple applications are addressed as a research roadmap.

Computational Fluid-Structure Interaction in Microfluidics.

Micro elastofluidics is a transformative branch of microfluidics, leveraging the fluid-structure interaction (FSI) at the microscale to enhance the functionality and efficiency of various microdevices. This review paper elucidates the critical role of advanced computational FSI methods in the field of micro elastofluidics. By focusing on the interplay between fluid mechanics and structural responses, these computational methods facilitate the intricate design and optimisation of microdevices such as microvalves, micropumps, and micromixers, which rely on the precise control of fluidic and structural dynamics. In addition, these computational tools extend to the development of biomedical devices, enabling precise particle manipulation and enhancing therapeutic outcomes in cardiovascular applications. Furthermore, this paper addresses the current challenges in computational FSI and highlights the necessity for further development of tools to tackle complex, time-dependent models under microfluidic environments and varying conditions. Our review highlights the expanding potential of FSI in micro elastofluidics, offering a roadmap for future research and development in this promising area.

Summary and Roadmap of Breast Cancer Research in the Veterans Affairs.

Women are the largest growing population of Veterans within the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Health Care System. Among women Veterans, breast cancer is the most common malignancy (30% of all cancers), yet little is known about the unique needs of women Veterans with cancer and how to provide them with high quality care. The VA health care system has initiated multiple system-wide systemic efforts, including launching the Breast and Gynecologic Cancer System of Excellence (BGSOE) to address this knowledge gap. This report summarizes the outcomes of the inaugural 2023 VA Women's Cancer Research Conference, which assembled 37 multidisciplinary clinicians, scientists, the VA and civilian partners with a shared goal of advancing VA breast cancer research. Conference objectives were to build a collective vision for improving: (1) referral patterns for breast cancer treatment and patient-level outcomes and (2) molecular and genetic testing patterns across the breast cancer continuum among women Veterans. The meeting hosted 15 speakers at the Houston VA Medical Center. Future research priorities for women Veterans with cancer were identified from discussions and a post-conference survey. We then administered a 13-question post-conference survey to conference attendees. Respondents ranked the research priorities. The survey results show that the cross-cutting cancer research priorities designed to transform cancer care for women Veterans at the VA fit into 5 broad areas of study, including (1) care quality for treatment, (2) improving treatment, (3) care quality of molecular and genetic testing, (4) risk reduction through risk assessment and germline genetic testing, and (5) establishing strategic partnerships. Our data elucidate areas for further investigation to improve the delivery of cancer care.

Secure UAV (Drone) and the Great Promise of AI

UAVs have found their applications in numerous applications from recreational activities to business in addition to military and strategic fields. However, research on UAVs is not going on as quickly as the technology. Especially, when it comes to the security of these devices, the academia is lagging behind the industry. This gap motivates our work in this article as a stepping stone for future research in this area. A comprehensive survey on the security of UAVs and UAV-based systems can help the research community keep pace with, or even lead the industry. Although there are several reviews on UAVs or related areas, there is no recent survey broadly covering various aspects of security. Moreover, none of the existing surveys highlights current and future trends with a focus on the role of an omnipresent technology such as AI. This article endeavors to overcome these shortcomings. We conduct a comprehensive review on security challenges of UAVs as well as the related security controls. Then we develop a future roadmap for research in this area with a focus on the role of AI. The future roadmap is established based on the identified current trends, under-researched topics, and a future look-ahead.