bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cation valency in water-in-salt electrolytes alters the short- and long-range structure of the electrical double layer
Authors: Berlinger Sarah A. , Küpers Verena , Dudenas Peter J. , Schinski Devin , Flagg Lucas , Lamberty Zachary D. , McCloskey Bryan D. , Winter Martin , Frechette Joelle
Published: July 2024

Highly concentrated aqueous electrolytes (termed water-in-salt electrolytes, WiSEs) at solid-liquid interfaces are ubiquitous in myriad applications including biological signaling, electrosynthesis, and energy storage. This interface, known as the electrical double layer (EDL), has a different structure in WiSEs than in dilute electrolytes. Here, we investigate how divalent salts [zinc bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide, Zn(TFSI)
2
], as well as mixtures of mono- and divalent salts [lithium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (LiTFSI) mixed with Zn(TFSI)
2
], affect the short- and long-range structure of the EDL under confinement using a multimodal combination of scattering, spectroscopy, and surface forces measurements. Raman spectroscopy of bulk electrolytes suggests that the cation is closely associated with the anion regardless of valency. Wide-angle X-ray scattering reveals that all bulk electrolytes form ion clusters; however, the clusters are suppressed with increasing concentration of the divalent ion. To probe the EDL under confinement, we use a Surface Forces Apparatus and demonstrate that the thickness of the adsorbed layer of ions at the interface grows with increasing divalent ion concentration. Multiple interfacial layers form following this adlayer; their thicknesses appear dependent on anion size, rather than cation. Importantly, all electrolytes exhibit very long electrostatic decay lengths that are insensitive to valency. It is likely that in the WiSE regime, electrostatic screening is mediated by the formation of ion clusters rather than individual well-solvated ions. This work contributes to understanding the structure and charge-neutralization mechanism in this class of electrolytes and the interfacial behavior of mixed-electrolyte systems encountered in electrochemistry and biology.
The ISR downstream target ATF4 represses long-term memory in a cell type–specific manner
Authors: Mahmood Niaz , Choi Jung-Hyun , Wu Pei You , Dooling Sean W. , Watkins Trent A. , Huang Ziying , Lipman Jesse , Zhao Hanjie , Yang Anqi , Silversmith Jake , Inglebert Yanis , Koumenis Constantinos , Sharma Vijendra , Lacaille Jean-Claude , Sossin Wayne S. , Khoutorsky Arkady , McKinney R. Anne , Costa-Mattioli Mauro , Sonenberg Nahum
Published: July 2024

The integrated stress response (ISR), a pivotal protein homeostasis network, plays a critical role in the formation of long-term memory (LTM). The precise mechanism by which the ISR controls LTM is not well understood. Here, we report insights into how the ISR modulates the mnemonic process by using targeted deletion of the activating transcription factor 4 (ATF4), a key downstream effector of the ISR, in various neuronal and non-neuronal cell types. We found that the removal of ATF4 from forebrain excitatory neurons (but not from inhibitory neurons, cholinergic neurons, or astrocytes) enhances LTM formation. Furthermore, the deletion of ATF4 in excitatory neurons lowers the threshold for the induction of long-term potentiation, a cellular model for LTM. Transcriptomic and proteomic analyses revealed that ATF4 deletion in excitatory neurons leads to upregulation of components of oxidative phosphorylation pathways, which are critical for ATP production. Thus, we conclude that ATF4 functions as a memory repressor selectively within excitatory neurons.
Foster parents’ experiences with animal companions while fostering children and youth
Authors: Wiens Jeanette , Pearson T. , Whalen C.
Published: July 2024

This qualitative exploratory inquiry examined foster parents’ perspectives of the impact companion animals had on the children/youth in their care. Six foster parents were interviewed and six themes, including 12 subthemes, were uncovered: (1) provision of companionship (unconditional love); (2) strengthening of the foster home environment (environmental connection, increased feelings of safety); (3) teaching empathy (responsibility, compassion); (4) emotional regulation (grief, emotional support, calming presence); (5) benefits to foster parents (friendship, affection, emotional support, additional support); and (6) challenges. These findings have important implications for social work practice. Specific recommendations based on the findings are presented.
Altered Domesticities
Authors: Gould Philip
Published: July 2024

This chapter considers Alcott’s wartime magazine fiction’s complex engagements with the new relations the war created between the government and traditional domestic norms. It reads Alcott’s fiction, which is openly loyal to the Union, in context of Union propaganda, and argues that Alcott contests the reduction of the home to wartime demands of military necessity and political loyalty. In such works as “On Picket Duty,” “Love and Loyalty,” “The Blue and the Grey,” and “My Red Cap,” Alcott carefully calibrates domestic and political modes of affiliation and the very meanings of love and loyalty. Rather than see the Civil War as Alcott’s emancipation from domestic pressures, as many critics do, this chapter argues that the war presents the occasion to rethink the norms of domestic love in a time of civil conflict.
Race, Violence, and African-American Citizenship
Authors: Gould Philip
Published: July 2024

This chapter turns to African-American writing about Black military service as the presumed means for attaining US citizenship. The failure of this promise is the ground for its readings of African-American convention proceedings, petitions, newspaper reports, as well as important writings by Frederick Douglass, William Wells Brown, and Frances Ellen Watkins Harper. It focuses on this writing’s complex engagements with racial citizenship in a time of war and reconstruction. My reading of this literature takes up questions of state-sponsored violence as the grounds for identifying African-American subjectivity. This chapter takes it cue from Lincoln’s rationale for using Black troops as a “force” or “element” to utilize against the Confederacy. This provides a context for reading Douglass’s and Brown’s contrasting and deliberate investments in heroic Black manhood. The chapter concludes by contrasting their rhetorical and political strategies with Harper’s reevaluation of this androcentric model of racial manhood.
FireSync EMS: A Novel Mobile Application for Burn Surface Area Calculation
Authors: Malkoff Nicolas , Cannata Brigette , Wang Sarah , Manasyan Artur , Maestas Joseph , Pickering Trevor A , Koegler Lyle , Kashani Saman , Johnson Maxwell B , Yenikomshian Haig A , Gillenwater T Justin
Published: July 2024

The percent total body surface area (TBSA) burned is a critical determinant of the required level of care, initial management, and prognosis in patients with burns. The current gold standard for estimating this measurement, the Lund–Browder (LB) chart, requires familiarity with its construction and may not be practical for use by first responders in the field. In this study, we present a novel burn surface area calculator mobile application developed for first responders and validate its accuracy. Infant, pediatric, and adult manikins were fabricated with 8 simulated burns of varying sizes and distributions. In total, 42 preclinical medical students and firefighters were tasked with estimating the TBSA of each burn using both the FireSync EMS app and LB chart. Univariate analysis and mixed-effects linear regression modeling were performed to compare the accuracy of both methods in relation to user experience, manikin size, and burn size. FireSync EMS significantly reduced overestimation bias (0.11%, SD 2.33 vs 0.91%, SD 4.12, P = .002), particularly for burns on child-size manikins (P < .001) and burns involving <10% (P = .005) and >20% (P = .030) TBSA. Multivariable modeling revealed that the LB chart was an independent determinant of the magnitude of estimation error, with a 1.19 times multiplicative effect relative to FireSync EMS (P < .001). The participants overwhelmingly found FireSync EMS easier, more intuitive, faster, and preferable (P < .001 for all). FireSync EMS may be an easier, faster, and more accurate alternative to the LB chart for estimation of the TBSA burned.
Oocyte-specific EXOC5 expression is required for mouse oogenesis and folliculogenesis
Authors: Wu Hongwen , Nguyen Hieu , Hashim Prianka H , Fogelgren Ben , Duncan Francesca E , Ward W Steven
Published: July 2024

EXOC5 is a crucial component of a large multi-subunit tethering complex, the exocyst complex, that is required for fusion of secretory vesicles with the plasma membrane. Exoc5 deleted mice die as early embryos. Therefore, to determine the role of EXOC5 in follicular and oocyte development, it was necessary to produce a conditional knockout (cKO), Zp3-Exoc5-cKO, in which Exoc5 was deleted only in oocytes. The first wave of folliculogenesis appeared histologically normal and progressed to the antral stage. However, after IVF with normal sperm, oocytes collected from the first wave (superovulated 21-day-old cKO mice) were shown to be developmentally incompetent. Adult follicular waves did not progress beyond the secondary follicle stage where they underwent apoptosis. Female cKO mice were infertile. Overall, these data suggest that the first wave of folliculogenesis is less sensitive to oocyte-specific loss of Exoc5, but the resulting gametes have reduced developmental competence. In contrast, subsequent waves of folliculogenesis require oocyte-specific Exoc5 for development past the preantral follicle stage. The Zp3-Exoc5-cKO mouse provides a model for disrupting folliculogenesis that also enables the separation between the first and subsequent waves of folliculogenesis.
First Complete Genome Sequence Resource of a Potyvirus lactucae Isolate from the United States of America
Authors: Reddy Kishorekumar , Kunda Divya , Gilbertson Robert L. , McDonald Karen A. , Nandi Somen , Sudarshana Mysore R.
Published: July 2024

Potyvirus lactucae, lettuce mosaic virus (LMV), is a devastating pathogen that impacts commercial lettuce production. The complete genome sequence of an LMV isolate from a romaine lettuce plant (LMV-R) collected in 1994 in the Salinas Valley of California was determined by RNA-seq and Sanger sequencing, followed by 5′ rapid amplification of cDNA ends (RACE). The genome of LMV-R consists of 10,080 nucleotides and shares the highest nucleotide identity with LMV isolate CL208 from Chile (97.2%) (GenBank accession KJ161176.1). The LMV-R genome encodes for a single large polypeptide (UED15646) with putative proteolytic cleavage sites and showed 98.9% amino acid (aa) identity to a Turkish isolate (UEP55410) and 98.71% aa identity a to Chilean isolate (AIB00275). The sequence and phylogenetic analysis highlight the close association between LMV-R from the United States and CL208 of Chile, indicating that LMV-R might have been exchanged between North America and South America through international trade.

[Formula: see text] Copyright © 2024 The Author(s). This is an open access article distributed under the CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 International license .
Bioinformatic approaches of liquid–liquid phase separation in human disease
Authors: Sun Jun , Chen Yilong , Bi Ruiye , Yuan Yong , Yu Haopeng
Published: July 2024

Biomolecular aggregation within cellular environments via liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) spontaneously forms droplet-like structures, which play pivotal roles in diverse biological processes. These structures are closely associated with a range of diseases, including neurodegenerative disorders, cancer and infectious diseases, highlighting the significance of understanding LLPS mechanisms for elucidating disease pathogenesis, and exploring potential therapeutic interventions. In this review, we delineate recent advancements in LLPS research, emphasizing its pathological relevance, therapeutic considerations, and the pivotal role of bioinformatic tools and databases in facilitating LLPS investigations. Additionally, we undertook a comprehensive analysis of bioinformatic resources dedicated to LLPS research in order to elucidate their functionality and applicability. By providing comprehensive insights into current LLPS-related bioinformatics resources, this review highlights its implications for human health and disease.
Microbe Profile: Bacteriophage ϕ6: a model for segmented RNA viruses and the evolutionary consequences of viral ‘sex’
Authors: Turner Paul E. , Chao Lin
Published: July 2024

Graphical abstract

Phage ϕ6 is a model for segmented RNA viruses, and for testing evolutionary biology. (a) Phage ϕ6 attaches to type-IV pili of susceptible host bacteria and selects for phage-resistance via altered/deleted pili, causing a ‘trade-off’ that should reduce pathogenicity (leaf adherence and plant invasion) of Pseudomonad bacteria in the wild. (b) Muller’s ratchet predicts that asexual populations of small size should accrue harmful mutations that reduce mean fitness over time, depicted as rightward shift in a hypothetical histogram (blue bars) of individuals harbouring greater average genetic load. Whereas ϕ6 studies showed segment reassortment (viral sex) can create hybrids with fewer mutations (horizontal red bars on RNA segments) than those carried by co-infecting ‘parent’ viruses, causing leftward shift of histogram, and reduced average genetic load over time. (c) Wild-type phage (black) is advantaged in particle production, relative to a cheater phage (red). But frequent co-infection can favour selection for cheater variants of ϕ6 that outcompete the wild-type; overall productivity decreases but cheaters are over-represented among the viral progeny compared to their production when infecting cells alone. This result is consistent with the Prisoner’s Dilemma outcome in evolutionary game theory, which shows a cheating strategy (red line depicting cheater fitness) can invade a population at any initial starting frequency (exceeding horizontal black line for wild-type fitness defined as 1.0) despite causing mean fitness to decline through time (red arrow pointing down and to the right as cheaters approach fixation when frequency equals 1.0).
SciMind: A Multimodal Mixture-of-Experts Model for Advancing Pharmaceutical Sciences
Authors: Xiong Zhaoping , Fang Xintao , Chu Haotian , Wan Xiaozhe , Liu Liwei , Li Yameng , Xiang Wenkai , Zheng Mingyue
Published: July 2024

Large language models (LLMs) have made substantial strides, but their use in reliably tackling issues within specialized domains, particularly in interdisciplinary areas like pharmaceutical sciences, is hindered by data heterogeneity, knowledge complexity, unique objectives, and a spectrum of constraint conditions. In this area, diverse modalities such as nucleic acids, proteins, molecular structures, and natural language are often involved. We designed a specialized token set and introduced a new Mixture-of-Experts (MoEs) pre-training and fine-tuning strategy to unify these modalities in one model. With this strategy, we’ve created a multi-modal mixture-of-experts foundational model for pharmaceutical sciences, named SciMind. This model has undergone extensive pre-training on publicly accessible datasets including nucleic acid sequences, protein sequences, molecular structure strings, and biomedical texts, and delivers good performance on biomedical text comprehension, promoter prediction, protein function prediction, molecular description, and molecular generation.
Nanoscale organization is changed in native, surface AMPARs by mouse brain region and tauopathy
Authors: Vaidya Rohit M , Zhang Jiahao , Nall Duncan , Lee Yongjae , Kim Eung Chang , Ma Donghan , Huang Fang , Nonaka Hiroshi , Kiyonaka Shigeki , Hamachi Itaru , Chung Hee Jung , Selvin Paul R
Published: July 2024

Synaptic AMPA receptors (AMPARs) on neuronal plasma membranes are correlated with learning and memory. Using a unique labeling and super-resolution imaging, we have visualized the nanoscale synaptic and extra-synaptic organization of native surface AMPARs for the first time in mouse brain slices as a function of brain region and tauopathy. We find that the fraction of surface AMPARs organized in synaptic clusters is two-times smaller in the hippocampus compared to the motor and somatosensory cortex. In 6 months old PS19 model of tauopathy, synaptic and extrasynaptic distributions are disrupted in the hippocampus but not in the cortex. Thus, this optimized super-resolution imaging tool allows us to observe synaptic deterioration at the onset of tauopathy before apparent neurodegeneration.
From gavels to algorithms: The Vidhii Partners GenAI evolution
Authors: Wadehra Siddharth , Anand Ambuj
Published: July 2024

Learning outcomes

This case study exposes students to the process of decision-making given the market uncertainty, evolving shareholder expectations and other variables that executives and managers must consider ensuring business continuity and growth and helps students develop an appreciation of the impact emerging technologies are having on organizational digital transformation. This case study evaluates the strategic considerations for whitespace digital solutions into existing organizational operations, balancing innovation with core operating principles; exposes the students to the drivers of fostering a culture of innovation and employee buy-in during strategic digital transformation initiatives; and evaluates and appreciates the role of key stakeholders, such as customers, employees and executive management, in shaping a successful digital transformation strategy and promoting sustained business growth.

Case overview/synopsis

Vidhii Partners, a leading Indian law firm, grapples with the burgeoning demand for legal services in a rapidly evolving market. Traditional methods may struggle to keep pace, prompting Vikram Wadehra, a partner, to champion the adoption of Generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) technology. Vidhii Partners embarks on the development of two GenAI tools: VidAI, an AI-powered chatbot designed to democratize access to legal information, and VidAI Pro, a business-to-business offering aimed at streamlining legal research and drafting. Wadehra envisions these tools not only enhancing efficiency but also fostering a culture of legal awareness and generating new business opportunities. However, crucial decisions remain. Can Vidhii Partners bridge the potential gap between innovation and the firm’s established practices? How can they effectively integrate GenAI into their operations while ensuring user trust and employee buy-in? This case study presents a rich opportunity to explore the challenges and opportunities associated with digital transformation in the legal sector. Students will grapple with themes such as navigating market uncertainty, fostering a culture of innovation within a traditional organization and developing effective strategies for stakeholder management during change initiatives. Through the lens of Vidhii Partners’ GenAI journey, students gain valuable insights into the complexities of embracing disruptive technologies within a dynamic business landscape.

Complexity academic level

This case study is designed for masters level (MBA).

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 11: Strategy.
Kavak: a Latin American startup aiming to disrupt the used-car market across emerging economies
Authors: Ikrama Syeda , Qumer Syeda Maseeha
Published: July 2024

Learning outcomes

This case study is intended to help students to evaluate Kavak’s business model, examine the global expansion strategy of Kavak, analyze the competitive strategy adopted by Kavak, recognize the ways in which Kavak leveraged technology in all its business operations, examine the key challenges faced by Kavak in the fragmented Latin American as well as global used car market and explore strategies that Kavak can adopt in future to maintain its dominance in the global used car market.

Case overview/synopsis

This case study is about the meteoric rise of Kavak, a Mexican used car retailer that aimed to disrupt the emerging pre-owned car markets with its unique value propositions and compelling global expansion strategy. Co-founded in 2016 by Carlos García Ottati (Ottati), in Mexico City, Kavak emerged as an end-to-end solution to buy, manage, sell and finance pre-owned cars. Using pricing algorithms driven by artificial intelligence and machine learning-based inspection tools and personalized recommendations, Kavak reshaped the mobility sector in the Latin American and Middle Eastern regions. In a mere six years of operation, the company established its presence in nine countries: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico, Peru, Turkey, the UAE and Oman. Kavak’s innovative yet simple business model ensured transparency and guarantees in all its transactions where reconditioned vehicles were sold to thousands of customers through its e-commerce platform as well as a network of brick-and-mortar hubs. Its in-house financing arm Kavak Capital was at the core of its business model, as it offered affordable leasing options, making car ownership possible for both first- and second-time car owners within just a few minutes of applying. The platform had an inventory of 40,000 vehicles as of 2023 with more than 50% of Kavak’s sales being financed by Kavak Capital. The case study discusses the challenges faced by Kavak in the fragmented used car market including rising interest rates for vehicle loans, managing capital-intensive operations, rising competition and external economic headwinds such as inflation and slowing economic growth. Going forward, the challenge before Ottati and his team was how to make profits, build customer trust, attract customers and achieve global success.

Complexity academic level

This case study is suitable for MBA/MS level and is designed to be a part of the business strategy/and international business curriculum.

Subject code

CSS: 5: International business.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.
Assessment of user awareness of electricity consumption based on norm activation model: the study of a public university in Ghana
Authors: Abbas Jannat , Alhassan Tahiru , Ohene Adu Augustine , Mohammed Abubakar Sadiq
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to assess user awareness of electricity consumption at a public university in Ghana based on the norm activation model (NAM).

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a survey design, using closed-ended questionnaires as the main data collection instruments. Data was collected from 300 respondents (staff and students) of the university and analysed descriptively using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences.

Findings

The study found that the level of user awareness (as defined by NAM) of electricity consumption among staff and students is moderate. Therefore, the more energy campaigns users are exposed to the higher their level of user awareness (awareness of consequence, ascription of responsibility and personal norm).

Practical implications

The findings of this study can assist university management boards and other organisations in recognising the potential for reducing electricity use by increasing user knowledge. Ultimately, this can result in added value.

Originality/value

The study makes a significant contribution to the literature on the NAM by exclusively focusing on the variables of NAM to assess the level of user awareness of electricity consumption in a university setting.
Unravelling late adolescents’ addiction to social media: a unified theory perspective
Authors: Tan Christine Nya-Ling , Fauzi Muhammad Ashraf
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the intricate connections among late adolescents in Malaysia by considering their attachment patterns, attitudes towards technology acceptance, malevolent psychological and emotional traits and addiction to social media. This is achieved by integrating and refining the attachment theory (AT), the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the dark triad (DT) personality traits.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 217 quantitative data were gathered from adolescents between 17 and 19 years of age. The data was analysed using partial least square structural equation modelling with established constructs, including TAM (perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, attitude), DT traits (narcissism, Machiavellianism, psychopathy, fear of missing out), AT (attachment avoidance, attachment anxiety) and social media addiction.

Findings

The findings indicate that the perceived ease of use and usefulness are significantly positively related to attitude. Additionally, both attitude and FOMO were found to have a significant positive relationship with social media addiction. Notably, attachment anxiety was found to have a significant positive impact on FOMO, whereas attachment avoidance did not. Furthermore, among the dark triad traits, only narcissism showed a positive relationship with FOMO.

Originality/value

This study is novel because it integrates and expands unified theoretical perspectives to uncover the multifaceted factors contributing to late adolescents’ social media addiction. Moreover, introducing new concepts such as FOMO lays the groundwork for future research. Additionally, it proposes interventions that target specific vulnerabilities associated with attachment styles, technology acceptance and personality traits.
Reconciliation of wire woven mesh porous media in controlling the desired heat transfer and pressure drop
Authors: G. Trilok , Gnanasekaran N. , Mobedi Moghtada
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Despite the reputation of the metal-based porous media for their ability to augment heat transfer as widely witnessed in the literature and practically operating heat exchanging applications, the coexisting penalty of the increased pressure drop demanding increased pumping power poses a major concern that invites the need for an alternate solution to handle this unsought outcome. Therefore, this study aims at providing a better solution to the existing cost and benefit scenarios to benefit a plethora of engineering applications including energy transfer, energy storage and energy conversion.

Design/methodology/approach

This work highlights on the property of stacked woven wire mesh porous media such as their stacking types, porous conditions and thickness scenarios that can potentially result in distinct trade-off scenarios. A vertical channel is numerical modelled by using REV scaled modelling technique using Darcy-Forchheimer and local thermal non-equilibrium models to illustrate the possibilities of this variety of trade off scenarios between the desirable heat transfer and the unsought flow resistance.

Findings

This work illustrates the advantages of wire mesh-based porous medium and its distinct potential in controlling the existing trade-offs between the cost and benefit aspects. It is found that by varying the features of wire mesh porous media, the interplay between the conflictingly existing characteristics can be much easily handled specific to distinct requirements associated with variety of engineering applications.

Originality/value

The study emphasizes on a new solution or methodology to handle the penalty of pressure drop associated with metal-based porous media. Through this study, a novel approach to control the ultimately costing pumping power at the benefit of increased heat transfer is provided considering various requirements that could be associated with any thermal management systems. Various possibilities and potentials of wire mesh porous media are illustrated highlighting on their benefit of ease with which the mentioned goals can be achieved.
Impact of government expenditure on unemployment in Asian countries: does institutional quality matter?
Authors: Tran Pham Toan Khanh
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Asian countries have had persistent unemployment levels. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of government spending on unemployment. Furthermore, this paper investigates the moderating role of institutional quality on the government spending–unemployment nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from 35 Asian countries from 2000 to 2022, the dynamic ordinary least squares and fully modified ordinary least squares technique is used to tackle with aforementioned issue. In addition, pooled mean group estimation is applied to verify the robustness of the findings.

Findings

The results show that an increase in government expenditure and better institutions reduce the unemployment rate. Interestingly, the negative impact of government expenditure on unemployment will enhance and intensify with better institutional quality. Furthermore, trade openness and foreign direct investment decrease unemployment in Asian countries. The results are robust to various specifications.

Practical implications

Findings from this study provide important implications for governments. Governments should use public expenditure efficiently and enhance and improve institutional quality to reduce unemployment.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this study pioneers the investigation of the moderating role of institutional quality in the relationship between government expenditure and unemployment in Asian countries.
The role of artificial intelligence in auditing and fraud detection in accounting information systems: moderating role of natural language processing
Authors: Qatawneh Adel M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the moderating role of natural language processing natural language processing (NLP) on the relationship between AI-empowered AIS (data gathering, data analysis, risk assessment, detection, prevention and Investigation) and auditing and fraud detection.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative methodology was adapted through a questionnaire. In total, 221 individuals represented the population of the study, and SPSS was used to screen primary data. The study indicated the acceptance of the hypothesis that “Artificial Intelligence in AIS has a statistically significant influence on auditing and fraud detection,” showing a strong correlation between auditing and fraud detection. The study concluded that NLP moderates the relationship between AI in AIS and auditing and fraud detection.

Findings

The study’s implications lie in its contribution to the development of theoretical models that explore the complementary attributes of AI and NLP in detecting financial fraud.

Research limitations/implications

A cross-sectional design is a limitation.

Practical implications

NLP is a useful tool for developing more efficient methods for detecting fraudulent activities and audit risks.

Originality/value

The study’s originality stems from its focus on the use of AI-empowered AIS, a relatively new technology that has the potential to significantly impact auditing and fraud detection processes within the accounting field.
Unethical pro-organizational behavior: a systematic literature review and research agenda
Authors: Mukherjee Ujjal , S.R. Saritha
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The literature on unethical pro-organizational behavior (UPOB) has experienced significant growth in the past decade. However, there is limited research on the effects of organizational, team and malleable individual factors on UPOB. It is also necessary to explore its adverse effects for theoretical advancement and to uncover unexplored opportunities. This study aims to systematically examine the existing body of literature on UPOB, providing thorough theoretical, contextual and methodological insights.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis technique, the authors identified 43 articles on UPOB from journals included in the ABDC-2019 list. The authors conducted an analysis of the identified articles and categorized them using a modified version of Paul and Rosado-Serrano’s (2019) TCCM framework.

Findings

Existing literature primarily focuses on attitudinal and contextual antecedents of UPOB, neglecting individual differences and their consequences. The review suggests that certain desired employee attitudes may also lead to UPOB. In addition, the study highlights underutilization of established behavioral theories, emphasizing the need for a more inclusive theoretical framework. The exploration identifies research gaps, including in multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary studies, aiming to broaden the research scope in this field.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the need for a more comprehensive theoretical framework to understand UPOB.

Practical implications

It cautions organizations fostering positive employee attitudes, such as job satisfaction, workplace spirituality and organizational commitment, as these may inadvertently promote UPOB.

Social implications

Socially, the paper highlights how engaging in UPOB affects the lives of involved employees.

Originality/value

This paper’s originality arises from its methodical review and categorization of prior research on UPOB using a distinctive, multidisciplinary research framework.
From traditional to virtual classrooms: unravelling themes and shaping the future of metaverse education
Authors: Waquar Alisha , Sujood  , Kareem Saima , Yasmeen Nusrat , Hussain Sarah
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to conduct a comprehensive review of scholarly literature on the educational impacts of the metaverse, systematically identifying emerging themes, challenges and implications for metaverse education.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses systematic literature review techniques using the Scopus database to investigate empirical studies and systematic reviews specifically examining the convergence of the metaverse and education.

Findings

The study shows that the metaverse has a substantial influence on education, emphasising immersive learning, real social interactions and the transformation of traditional frameworks. This paper identifies nine themes, illuminating the growing relevance of metaverse tools in academic institutions, influencing learning methods, outcomes and positive student dispositions.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides a foundation for further investigations into the metaverse’s potential to disseminate knowledge and enhance comprehension of metaverse technologies. It explores the metaverse’s potential in relation to progress, upcoming trends and cultural awareness while highlighting obstacles that must be addressed for effective metaverse teaching.

Originality/value

This research paper makes a substantial scholarly contribution by undertaking a systematic analysis of empirical studies and identifying emerging themes in the area of metaverse education. It offers substantial insights into the transformative potential of metaverse education and its implications for pedagogical and instructional approaches in the digitised era through the analysis of fundamental inquiries.
The effect of modern information technology on corporate payout policy. Evidence from EDGAR implementation
Authors: Trinh Tri
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study uses the Electronic Data Gathering Analysis and Retrieval (EDGAR) implementation as an information shock to examine its effect on corporate payout policy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a generalized difference-in-differences approach to assess the causal impact of EDGAR implementation on the US publicly traded firms’ payout policy for a period from 1990 to 1999. The approach captures the difference between changes in the dividend policy of firms subjected to EDGAR implementation (treated firms) and those not subjected to the implementation (control firms).

Findings

Firms increase payout ratios and the likelihood of paying dividends after the implementation of EDGAR. Notably, these effects are more pronounced in firms characterized by high agency problems ex-ante.

Practical implications

Policies designed to improve a firm’s information environment may yield divergent effects on corporate payout policy. Consequently, in countries aiming to promote cash dividends, policymakers seeking to enhance the firm information environment should carefully consider initiatives that will improve minority investors’ access to corporate information.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the real effects of EDGAR implementation on firm policies, addressing the ambiguity surrounding the economic consequences of EDGAR adoption. This paper also contributes to the existing literature on the impact of information shock on corporate payouts. The findings emphasize the multifaceted influence of information shock on corporate payouts.
Optimizing positive goal framing in advertising: differential consumer responses to new product categories
Authors: Niu Yixuan , Ma Baolong
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This research delves into the nuanced effects of positive goal framing quantity in advertising on consumer reactions towards new products, categorizing them into incrementally new products (INPs) and really new products (RNPs). It moves beyond the traditional binary evaluation of advertising effectiveness, offering a more intricate analysis of consumer engagement based on product novelty.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a comprehensive dataset encompassing 461 digital video advertisements from six leading technology-centric firms, this study employs content analysis alongside hierarchical polynomial regression to dissect the dynamics between the volume of positive goal framings and consumer engagements. This examination is contextualized within the spectrum of product innovation, offering insights into the differential consumer behaviors elicited by INPs and RNPs.

Findings

The investigation uncovers a non-linear, inverted U-shaped correlation between the volume of positive goal framings and consumer responses. This relationship exhibits variability in its intensity between INPs and RNPs, with INPs demonstrating a more pronounced response variability around a higher inflection point on the curve. This pattern underscores the complex interplay between goal framing and product novelty in shaping consumer perceptions and actions.

Originality/value

This study pioneers the exploration of goal framing within the realm of product advertising, shifting the analytical lens from its traditional roots in health and medicine to the intricacies of consumer behavior in response to advertising. By introducing a distinctive classification of product newness through INPs and RNPs, the research augments current understanding of effective advertising strategies, delivering profound insights for marketers and advertisers in tailoring their campaigns to align with consumer expectations and product characteristics.
Navigating uncertainties: impact of supply chain resilience on organizational performance, mediated and moderated model: Pakistan manufacturing sector case
Authors: Mehmood Saqib , Nazir Samera , Fan Jianqiang , Nazir Zarish
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between supply chain resilience and organizational performance with innovation as a mediator and information sharing as a moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

The study thoroughly explored how supply chain resilience, organizational performance, innovation and information sharing are connected. It used an exploratory approach and quantitative methods. Data were collected from large manufacturing firms through online questionnaire surveys using Google Forms, emails and WhatsApp.

Findings

The findings demonstrated that supply chain resilience positively impacts sustainability efforts. Furthermore, leveraging innovation and effective information sharing mediated and moderated the relationship, playing pivotal roles in enhancing sustainability within the supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

The study provided actionable insights for businesses to strengthen their sustainability efforts. Managers could utilize these findings to implement strategies that enhance supply chain resilience, drive innovation and promote effective information sharing, ultimately leading to a more sustainable supply chain.

Originality/value

This study contributed to the existing body of knowledge by examining the complex relationships between supply chain resilience, organizational performance, innovation and information sharing in the context of achieving sustainability. The exploration of these components in a holistic manner added originality to the research and shed light on effective strategies for sustainable supply chain management.
Fostering community resilience through the lived experience of terrorist incidents
Authors: Soomro Shuaib Ahmed
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Understanding community resilience and collective efficacy is essential in terrorist-ridden areas. This study aims to investigate the role of communities in fostering collective resilience in response to violent acts of terrorism. It utilizes social capital and collective efficacy theories to explore the complicated relationship between community resilience and self-efficacy in terrorist-ridden areas.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed an interpretive methodology and conducted thematic data analysis. It documented insights and lessons learned from the diverse perspectives of community stakeholders through semi-structured interviews with 21 participants residing in Quetta, Pakistan. Interviews took place in March and April 2023.

Findings

The study demonstrates that community resilience contributes significantly to violent acts of terrorism. After carefully going through data exploration, four intriguing themes appear. The first theme pertained to participants experiencing stress due to terrorism incidents, highlighting the frequency of such stressful events. The second theme examined the escalating backdrop of terrorism, which perpetually looms, prompting communities to fortify their resilience against this persistent threat. The third theme, community resilience during terrorist violence and active participation, revealing active participation in activities aimed at enhancing community quality of life. The fourth theme emphasized the challenges associated with community engagement in resilience-building efforts.

Originality/value

This study advances the understanding of community resilience in terrorist-ridden areas. In addition, it furthers discourse and provides ways for the implementation of strategies aimed at strengthening community resilience following terrorist incidents.
Structural determinants of the uptake of cyber-physical systems for facilities management – a confirmatory factor analysis approach
Authors: Ikuabe Matthew Osivue , Aigbavboa Clinton , Anumba Chimay , Oke Ayodeji Emmanuel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Cyber-physical systems (CPS) offer improved delivery of facilities management (FM) mandates through their advanced computational capabilities. Using second-order multivariate analysis, this study explores the drivers of the espousal of this digital technology for FM.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed a deductive approach underpinned by a post-positivist philosophical stance using a quantitative technique aided by a well-structured questionnaire. Data retrieved from the study’s respondents were analysed with descriptive statistics, Kruskal–Wallis h-test, exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis.

Findings

The result of the analysis conducted portrayed evidence of convergence and good measures while the estimated model parameters all attained prescribed fit indexes. Also, it was revealed that the most influential drivers for the uptake of CPS for FM mandates are resource allocation for system procurement, top management willingness, system stability and compatibility with the previous system.

Practical implications

The study’s findings unravel the necessitated parameters that would instigate the adoption of CPS for the delivery of FM activities by organisations while also propelling the digital transformation of construction project delivery at the post-occupancy phase.

Originality/value

This is the first study to empirically assess the propelling measures for incorporating CPS for FM using second-order multivariate analysis. Consequently, the study's outcome helps close this knowledge gap.
Application of an approach integrating the Kano model and the fuzzy systems theory: a strategic analysis of consumer satisfaction scores
Authors: Albuquerque Andre , Becerra Claudia , Melo Fagner José Coutinho de , Medeiros Denise Dumke de
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this research is to propose a quantitative approach to evaluating the quality of services provided, helping organizations to make strategic decisions by better understanding the characteristics that satisfy consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach was based on the integration of the Kano model with SERVQUAL, adapted by the satisfaction equations of Albuquerque et al. (2022) and fuzzy systems theory. Through this, it was possible to infer which attributes influence customer satisfaction, identifying the ranges of satisfaction and, with the help of fuzzy, reducing the imprecision of customer perceptions.

Findings

A total of 42% of the attributes were classified as unidimensional, with attribute 11 (Reliability) and attribute 9 (Courtesy) having the highest satisfaction values. Attractive attributes accounted for 38% of the sample, with attribute 29 (Variety of products) and attribute 7 (Location) having the greatest impact on satisfaction. On the other hand, attribute 30 (Order Delay) and attribute 31 (Waiting for payment) caused more dissatisfaction among consumers (ranges −0.6, −0.71, respectively). In addition, Variety of products was the most satisfactory, while Order Delay generated the most dissatisfaction among users.

Originality/value

The originality of this research lies in its contribution to organizations in relation to the services offered by investigating a gap in the studies that use the Kano model, integrated with SERVQUAL, which do not include reverse attributes in their equations and analyses. With the help of fuzzy sets, the subjectivity of the individual can be translated into data for greater clarity of information.