bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expansion of cortical layers 2 and 3 in human left temporal cortex associates with verbal intelligence
Authors: Heyer DB , Wilbers R , Galakhova AA , Hartsema E , Braak S , Hunt S , Verhoog MB , Muijtjens ML , Mertens EJ , Idema S , Baayen JC , de Witt Hamer P , Klein M , McGraw M , Lein ES , de Kock CPJ , Mansvelder HD , Goriounova NA
Published: February 2021

The expansion of supragranular cortical layers is thought to have enabled evolutionary development of human cognition and language. However, whether increased volume of supragranular cortical layers can actually support greater cognitive and language abilities in humans has not been demonstrated. Here, we find that subjects with higher general and verbal intelligence test (VIQ) scores have selectively expanded layers 2 and 3 only in the left temporal cortex, an area associated with language and IQ-test performance. This expansion is accompanied by lower neuron densities and larger cell-body size. Furthermore, individuals with higher VIQ scores had neurons with larger dendritic trees in left temporal cortex, potentially impacting their function. Indeed, neurons of subjects with higher VIQ scores had faster action potential upstroke kinetics, which improves information processing. These data show that expansion of supragranular layer volume, cortical and cellular micro-architecture and function are associated with improved verbal mental ability in human subjects.
TNF signalling fine-tunes Langerhans cell transcriptional programmes mediating adaptive immunity
Authors: Davies James , Vallejo Andres F. , Sirvent Sofia , Porter Gemma , Clayton Kalum , Qumbelo Yamkela , Stumpf Patrick , West Jonathan , Gray Clive M. , Chigorimbo-Murefu Nyaradzo T.L , MacArthur Ben , Polak Marta E
Published: February 2021

Langerhans cells (LCs) reside in the epidermis as a dense network of immune system sentinels, coordinating both immunogenic and tolerogenic immune responses. To determine molecular switches directing induction of LC immune activation, we performed mathematical modelling of gene regulatory networks identified by single cell RNA sequencing of LCs exposed to TNF, a key pro-inflammatory signal produced by the skin. Our approach delineated three programmes of LC phenotypic activation (immunogenic, tolerogenic or ambivalent), and confirmed that TNF enhanced LC immunogenic programming. Through regulon analysis followed by mutual information modelling, we identifiedIRF1as the key transcription factor for the regulation of immunogenicity in LCs. Application of a mathematical toggle switch model, couplingIRF1with tolerance-inducing transcription factors, determined the key set of transcription factors regulating the switch between tolerance and immunogenicity, and correctly predicted LC behaviour in LCs derived from different body sites. Our findings provide a mechanistic explanation of how combinatorial interactions between different transcription factors can coordinate specific transcriptional programmes in human LCs, interpreting the microenvironmental context of the local tissue microenvironments.
NEDD4 Regulates Ubiquitination and Stability of the Cell adhesion Molecule IGPR-1 via Lysosomal Pathway
Authors: Sun Linzi , Amraei Razie , Rahimi Nader
Published: February 2021

The cell adhesion molecule immunoglobulin and proline-rich receptor-1 (IGPR-1) regulates various critical cellular processes including, cell-cell adhesion, mechanosensing and autophagy. However, the molecular mechanisms governing IGPR-1 cell surface expression levels remains unknown. In the present study, we used anin vitroubiquitination assay and identified ubiquitin E3 ligase NEDD4 and the ubiquitin conjugating enzyme UbcH6 involved in the ubiquitination of IGPR-1.In vitroGST-pulldown andin vivoco-immunoprecipitation assays demonstrated that NEDD4 binds to IGPR-1. Over-expression of wild-type NEDD4 downregulated IGPR-1 and deletion of WW domains (1-4) of NEDD4 revoked its effects on IGPR-1. Similarly, knockdown of NEDD4 increased IGPR-1 levels in A375 melanoma cells. Furthermore, deletion of 57 amino acids encompassing polyproline rich (PPR) motif on the C-terminus of IGPR-1 nullified the binding of NEDD4 with IGPR-1. Moreover, we demonstrate that NEDD4 promotes K48- and K63-dependent polyubiquitination of IGPR-1. The NEDD4-mediated polyubiquitination of IGPR-1 stimulated lysosomal degradation of IGPR-1 as the treatment of cells with the lysosomal inhibitors, bafilomycine and ammonium chloride increased IGPR-1 levels in the HEK-293 cells ectopically expressing IGPR-1 and in multiple human skin melanoma cell lines. Hence, these findings suggest that ubiquitin E3 ligase NEDD4 is a key regulator of IGPR-1 with a significant implication in the therapeutic targeting of IGPR-1.
Elucidating the Mechanical Energy for Cyclization of a DNA Origami Tile
Authors: Li Ruixin , Chen Haorong , Lee Hyeongwoon , Choi Jong Hyun
Published: February 2021

DNA origami has emerged as a versatile method to synthesize nanostructures with high precision. This bottom-up self-assembly approach can produce not only complex static architectures, but also dynamic reconfigurable structures with tunable properties. While DNA origami has been explored increasingly for diverse applications such as biomedical and biophysical tools, related mechanics are also under active investigation. Here we studied the structural properties of DNA origami and investigated the energy needed to deform the DNA structures. We used a single-layer rectangular DNA origami tile as a model system and studied its cyclization process. This origami tile was designed with an inherent twist by placing crossovers every 16 base-pairs (bp), corresponding to a helical pitch of 10.67 bp/turn which is slightly different from that of native B-form DNA (10.5 bp/turn). We used molecular dynamics (MD) simulations based on a coarse-grained model on an open-source computational platform, oxDNA. We calculated the energies needed to overcome the initial curvature and induce mechanical deformation by applying linear spring forces. We found that the initial curvature may be overcome gradually during cyclization and a total of ~33.1 kcal/mol is required to complete the deformation. These results provide insights into the DNA origami mechanics and should be useful for diverse applications such as adaptive reconfiguration and energy absorption.
A new concept for temporal gating of synchrotron X-ray pulses
Authors: Schmidt D. , Bauer R. , Chung S. , Novikov D. , Sander M. , Pudell J.-E. , Herzog M. , Pfuetzenreuter D. , Schwarzkopf J. , Chernikov R. , Gaal P.
Published: February 2021

A new concept for temporal gating of synchrotron X-ray pulses based on laser-induced thermal transient gratings is presented. First experimental tests of the concept yield a diffraction efficiency of 0.18%; however, the calculations indicate a theoretical efficiency and contrast of >30% and 10−5, respectively. The full efficiency of the pulse picker has not been reached yet due to a long-range thermal deformation of the sample after absorption of the excitation laser. This method can be implemented in a broad spectral range (100 eV to 20 keV) and is only minimally invasive to an existing setup.
Real earnings management and stock returns: moderating role of cross-sectional effects
Authors: Bansal Manish , Ali Asgar , Choudhary Bhawna
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The study aims at investigating the impact of real earnings management (REM) on the cross-sectional stock return after considering the moderating role of market effect, size effect, value effect and momentum effect.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses weekly and monthly data of 3,085 Bombay Stock Exchange listed stocks spanning over twenty years, from January 2000 to December 2019. REM is measured through metrics developed by Roychowdhury (2006), namely, abnormal levels of operating cash flows, production costs and discretionary expenditure. The study employs univariate and bivariate portfolio-level analysis.

Findings

The findings deduced from the empirical results demonstrate that investors perceive downward REM as an element of risk; hence, they discount the stock prices at a higher rate. On the contrary, results show that investors positively perceive upward REM; hence, they hold the stocks even at a lower rate of return. This anomaly is found to be robust for all kinds of considered moderations.

Practical implications

The findings have important managerial implications as investors are found to assign different weights to different forms of REM, depending upon the perception regarding the magnitude of risk involved in different forms. Managers can accommodate this information during their short- and long-term corporate planning.

Originality/value

First, the study is among the earlier attempts to examine the association between REM and stock returns by considering the moderating role of cross-sectional effects. Second, the study considers the direction and endogenous nature of REM while investigating the issue.
The effects of advertisements on consumer choices and health: a content analysis of health claims in Italian magazines
Authors: Tarabella Angela , Apicella Andrea , Tessitore Sara , Romano Maria Francesca
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to trace the evolution of the claims used for advertising food products in Italian magazines, by analysing the content and structure of the claims, the target audiences and the elements that have the greatest influence on the presence of the claims in food advertising.

Design/methodology/approach

On the basis of the research conducted by Pratt and Pratt (1995), revised and adapted to the Italian food context, the authors designed a matrix of 1,316 advertisements, which were selected based on the analysis of 67,340 advertisements and using the reference to the food sector as a discriminator. The advertisements were extrapolated from a sample of six Italian magazines, so as to determine the extent to which the various demographic groups in Italy are exposed to print advertising for food, beverages and food supplements. The authors examined the frequency of the relevant advertising forms over a period of four years, from January 2014 to December 2017.

Findings

The results revealed the main types of claims used in the four-year period, as well as the statistically significant differences between the different magazine panels, as concerns the frequency and the types of messages. Moreover, a strong relationship between the number of advertisements in the magazines and the time of the year was also ascertained, as well as significant gender variations.

Originality/value

This study introduces the trends and dynamics of the Italian printed advertising for food to the relevant scientific literature. The results yielded by this research have added further implications and contributions to the existing studies, as concerns claim diffusion based on type, gender and seasonality, and the authors also provide important insights to various socio-economical stakeholders.
Evaluation of oyster mushroom powder (Pleurotus ostreatus) as a partial substitute for phosphates in red tilapia fillet sausage
Authors: Hleap-Zapata Jose Igor , Rodríguez-de-la-Pava Gloria Carmenza
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article was to study the influence of oyster mushroom powder (Pleurotus ostreatus) as a partial substitute for sodium pyrophosphate in frankfurters made from red tilapia (Oreochromis spp.) fillets.

Design/methodology/approach

This study looks at adding oyster mushroom powder (OMP) to the emulsion at concentrations of 0, 0.075, 0.150, 0.225 and 0.300% (p/p) in combination with sodium pyrophosphate (PS), which was added at concentrations of 0.225, 0.150, 0.075 and 0%, respectively. A sausage with only sodium pyrophosphate added was evaluated as the control sample. The proximal chemical composition, physicochemical parameters, color, texture, lipid oxidation and sensory characteristics were determined for each treatment.

Findings

The results revealed that adding OMP up to 0.150% (w/w) provided the best conditions for the sausages in terms of pH, lipid oxidation, moisture retention capacity and cooking losses. In addition, the characteristics of texture and color, as well as the sensory evaluation, showed the best values for this OMP and SP ratio, meaning a substitution of sodium pyrophosphate with oyster mushroom powder at this concentration is suitable.

Originality/value

This paper discusses the beneficial properties of oyster mushroom powder, thereby showing potential for the establishment of health-promoting effects of the fish sausages.
Mentorship in librarianship: meeting the needs, addressing the challenges
Authors: Adekoya Clement Ola , Fasae Joseph Kehinde
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Mentorship is crucial to the success and accomplishment of librarianship in the contemporary era. This paper aims to investigate the need for mentorship and challenges besetting mentorship in librarianship with specific focus on academic libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Descriptive survey research design was used for the study. The population of the study was 1,214 librarians in 102 academic libraries in Southern Nigeria. Total enumeration sampling technique was adopted for the study.

Findings

It was reflected that mentorship, though beset by a number of challenges, is a necessity in librarianship. The hypotheses tested revealed that there is significant relationship between the need for mentorship and the types of mentorship adopted in academic libraries, and that there is no significant difference between the need for mentorship by male and female librarians.

Practical implications

This study affirmed that it is through mentorship that librarians can meet their job demands. Mentorship should therefore be stimulated to bolster the professional and intellectual development of the librarians. The mentees should be carried along in mentorship partnership selection process, and training should be organized for mentors and mentees on mentorship.

Social implications

The interaction of librarians in the course of mentoring can facilitate work cohesion and enhanced job performance.

Originality/value

The needs for and challenges besetting mentorship in librarianship have been explored by collecting data directly from the librarians. The cloistered nature of librarianship, given the changing nature of the profession owing to massive deployment of Information and Communication Technology in the performance of library operations, means that mentorship should be encouraged in the profession.
Uncovering customer processes: the interactive questionnaire
Authors: Palvölgyi Elisabeth Zsoka , Moormann Jürgen
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Insights about customers' processes of value creation are highly beneficial for companies striving to provide customers with added value in their processes. Customer processes (CPs) of a complex nature, like buying real estate, are highly heterogenous and comprise numerous activities. Existing data-gathering methods either overlook the variability of these processes or do not record their contents thoroughly. Drawing conclusions from analyzing such poor-quality data can result in the design of supposedly customer-centric offerings that fail to provide customers with value in their processes. This paper aims to introduce a method for gathering complex CP data of superior quality: the interactive questionnaire.

Design/methodology/approach

The design of the novel method is guided by requirements derived from the literature. In a field study, the method's performance is compared with that of existing methods.

Findings

The interactive questionnaire produces data quality gains by combining data gathering in large sample sizes with features enabling survey participants to interact with each other. A field study confirms that it outperforms all hitherto existing methods in terms of the quality of the obtained data.

Originality/value

This study contributes to CP management literature by introducing a method capable of gathering complex CPs in sample sizes sufficiently large to accurately reflect their variability and in broad scope including activities beyond the company's perception. Having such CP data available is the precondition for a joint optimization of CPs and aligned business processes.
The spinner innovation model: understanding the knowledge creation, knowledge transfer and innovation process in SMEs
Authors: Mota Veiga Pedro , Figueiredo Ronnie , Ferreira João J. M. , Ambrósio Filipe
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The objective of this article is to empirically study the influence of the characteristics of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the processes of knowledge creation, knowledge transfer and innovation in conjunction with the utilisation of private and public knowledge (KM) in accordance with the “spinner innovation model” (SIM).

Design/methodology/approach

The article deploys a sample of primary data generated by a questionnaire applied to the managers of hotel SMEs in Portugal. This involved the application of the covariance and multiple regression analytical methods.

Findings

The results demonstrate that some of the SME characteristics return significant impacts on private and public KM: the processes of knowledge creation, transfers of knowledge and innovation. The results also identify how private KM statistically predicts the processes of knowledge creation and transfer and innovation while public KM shapes and influences the creation of knowledge.

Research limitations/implications

As with any other such study, the key limitation stems from the sample made up of 82 hotel directors, which represents only a low rate of response even though the project deployed all of the procedures available to avoid such an outcome.

Practical implications

The SIM approach to the innovation process may assist strategic decision-makers to improve their tools and relations, avoid repeated working overlaps in existing processes as well as enabling more competitive approaches in terms of innovation.

Social implications

Furthermore, the responses ascertained reflect only the universe of study, conditioned by the context that produced them; hence, any generalisation of the results requires due caution.

Originality/value

This is the first study to empirically analyse the influence of the characteristics of SMEs over the processes of creating and transferring knowledge and innovation based upon applying the SIM and observing the extent of public and private knowledge in the hotel sector of Europe, more specifically, Portugal.
Numerical investigation of time delay parabolic differential equation involving two small parameters
Authors: Sahu Subal Ranjan , Mohapatra Jugal
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a robust numerical method for a two parameter singularly perturbed delay parabolic initial boundary value problem (IBVP).

Design/methodology/approach

To solve the problem, the authors have used a hybrid scheme combining the midpoint scheme, the upwind scheme and the second-order central difference scheme for the spatial derivatives. The backward Euler scheme on a uniform mesh is used to approximate the time derivative. Here, the authors have used Shishkin type meshes for spatial discretization.

Findings

It is observed that the proposed method converges uniformly with almost second-order spatial accuracy with respect to the discrete maximum norm.

Originality/value

This paper deals with the numerical study of a two parameter singularly perturbed delay parabolic IBVP. To solve the problem, the authors have used a hybrid scheme combining the midpoint scheme, the upwind scheme and the second-order central difference scheme for the spatial derivatives. The backward Euler scheme on a uniform mesh is used to approximate the time derivative. The convergence analysis is carried out. It is observed that the proposed method converges uniformly with almost second-order spatial accuracy with respect to the discrete maximum norm. Numerical experiments illustrate the efficiency of the proposed scheme.
Against white supremacism: whistle blower Kylie Thomas and Open Stellenbosch movement
Authors: Yenjela Wafula
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to underscore postcolonial approaches that undercut racial inequities as they foster racial equality and inclusivity at higher institutions of learning, especially in racialised spaces in South Africa.

Design/methodology/approach

This article dwells on whistleblowing as a channel of demythologising Whiteness in South African universities. While the #RhodesMustFall movement at University of Cape Town enjoyed much critical attention, concurrent movements in other universities such as Open Stellenbosch movement did not. This could be attributable to the methods used, especially whistleblowing, an unorthodox method employed to radically question university symbols, to disrupt racial superiority. In revisiting the movement's campaigns, the article specifically highlights Kylie Thomas' whistleblowing to underscore the role of humanities in fostering social transformation beginning with spaces of knowledge production such as universities.

Findings

The research found that challenging apartheid murals and monuments on South African institutions of higher learning required aggressive but creative approaches. This called for unmasking foundations of White supremacism. Whistle blowing and activism against White supremacism boldly confronted apartheid legacies that appear to be well preserved.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited to the 2015 South African student movements. The emphasis is on Open Stellenbosch movement which has received lesser critical attention compared to #RhodesMustFall. It envisions equality, diversity and inclusion in learning institutions which is achievable only through robust activist approaches to institutional/systemic racism in the institutions, rather than armchair theorising.

Originality/value

This article examines ways in which unorthodox methods such as whistlelowing and activism work to disrupt regimented White supremacism in an institution of higher learning founded on racist ethos.
The emergence of new policy coordination model in Korea: empowering HRD at the sectoral level
Authors: Moon Hanna , Ryu Kirak , Park Sangoh
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to describe how the human resources development (HRD) policy has shifted from the national level to the sectoral levels; the paper also explains the changes that have been made in skills formation in the economy by presenting the emergence of Industry Skills Councils (ISC).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents perspectives of which include reviewing the change of governance and skills formation at the sectoral level.

Findings

Skills development strategy is needed both at the sectoral and national levels to cultivate the core competencies of Korean talents. The feedbacks based on the HRD practices implemented at the micro level are delivered to the state governments and business associations via the ISCs. The policymaking has thus become more decentralized from the state government, and it now reflects inputs from the practical field in the process of making new policies.

Originality/value

Korean skills regime is still difficult to classify because it does not follow the skills formation regime discussed in current scholarship. While the state government has played an active role in decision-making, financing and delivery of vocational training programs since the early phase of economic development, engagement by social partners has been limited in the Korean vocational education and training (VET) system. The participation of social partners in the Korean VET system has been limited, but various stakeholders such as the labor unions; trade unions; chambers of commerce; and small, medium and large enterprises have been engaged gradually in skills identification, formation, development and implementation within individual sectors.
Qualification as a societal challenge and the role of higher education from a system approach
Authors: Goulart Alessandro R. , Liboni Lara B. , Cezarino Luciana O.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Looking at the planet as our main and unique asset, the authors encounter fragile zones needing special attention more than others, such as emerging countries. One of their most urgent problems is the qualification gap of the workforce and the consequent increasing poverty and social exclusion. Their backward education system is partially responsible for this disparity, especially in technology-related sectors. In this sense, higher education institutions (HEIs) play a fundamental role in shortening this gap and solving this dichotomy. The purpose of this study is to conduct a systemic study to address the qualification gap of emerging countries, offering a framework to minimize this grand societal challenge, taking Brazilian economy as example.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the soft system methodology (SSM), the authors propose systemic solutions to the qualification gap in Brazil by analyzing different stakeholder perceptions and developing a feasible-change framework to transition to an enhanced higher education (HE) model in Brazil.

Findings

Results show three main aspects that draw the framework: the education of social and emotional skills, internship support during the first experience in the job market and a closer relationship with employer companies.

Research limitations/implications

As a future direction, the framework proposes positive changes focused on soft skills-based education and the partnership between companies and HEIs.

Originality/value

The contribution relies on an original application of a system methodology to propose solutions to the qualification gap, involving different stakeholders, their salience and perceptions. The use of SSM to analyze complex problems from stakeholders' perspectives demonstrated how a system approach could empower the stakeholder theory in addressing grand societal challenges.
Thriving in the future: intentional followership development
Authors: Grant Susan , Willsie Susan , Gupta Garima
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the significance of the role of followership by raising self-awareness of those in organisational hierarchies through the followership intelligence activity. As practitioners, we intentionally spotlight the importance of followership learning and link followership development to the future needs of a thriving organisation through the facilitation of our activity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper outlines the proposed followership intelligence activity (FIA), which includes a progression of questions, group discussions and linkages to adult learning principles, experiential learning and followership theory.

Findings

Feedback from authors’ workshops and general observations indicate that once “learning” leaders understand the importance of followership and identify as both followers and leaders, they begin to build and promote work environments open to conversations about the behaviours and skills of exemplary followers.

Practical implications

People cannot change behaviour that they do not notice. However, when leaders begin to identify as both leaders and followers, their openness to learning, developing (self and others) and having followership conversations increases, which promotes both personal awareness and growth. As leaders model and create conversations about exemplary followership skills, they can promote and inspire these behaviours in others within the organisation.

Originality/value

The intention of embedding the FIA into our leadership development programme is to legitimise, honour and promote life-long learning of both leadership and followership. Both roles are vital for a thriving workplace, and they need to be performed with strength, accountability and pride.
The impact of humor climate on innovative work behavior: evidence from the banking industry in Russia
Authors: Logacheva Elizaveta Yu , Plakhotnik Maria S.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the impact of humor work climate on innovative work behavior of back-office employees in the banking industry in Russia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected via an online survey that included scales to measure humor climate and innovative work behavior. The survey was distributed electronically among employees of one department of a bank. The sample included 104 back-office employees (response rate 60.4%). Correlation and regression analyses were used.

Findings

The results indicate that humor climate fosters employee innovative work behavior. Positive humor contributes to innovative work behavior more than remaining humor climate dimensions (i.e. negative humor, outgroup humor and supervisory support). Only position type (managers vs non-managers), and not gender, education and job tenure, was found to have a significant impact on employee perceptions of humor climate and innovative work behavior exhibition.

Originality/value

This study adds to the limited empirical evidence on the links between humor and innovative work behavior, especially at a group level. This study focused on humor climate as a multidimensional construct, whereas previous research mostly explored positive forms of humor in relation to different social aspects of the organization. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this study is first to use a validated scale to explore connections between innovative work behavior and humor climate.
Effects of supportive work environment on employee retention: the mediating role of person–organisation fit
Authors: Yusliza Mohd Yusoff , Noor Faezah Juhari , Ali Nora’aini , Mohamad Noor Noor Maizura , Ramayah T. , Tanveer M. Imran , Fawehinmi Olawole
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationships for the following: supportive work environment, person–organisation fit and employee retention among academic staff in one of the Malaysian public universities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a conceptual framework to assess the direct impacts of supportive work environment (i.e. perceived climate, supervisory relationship, peer group interaction, perceived organisational support), person–organisation fit and employee retention. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed to 225 respondents.

Findings

The findings present the mediating influence of person–organisation fit on the relationships between supportive work environment and employee retention. The results reveal a direct and positive relationship between supportive work environment and academic staff retention. These results imply that individuals’ perceived towards an organisation can influence their decision to stay at the university.

Research limitations/implications

This study had filled in the knowledge gap about the role of supportive work environment with person–organisation fit and the relationship for employee retention in Malaysia. Previous research emphasised on organisations’ role in employee retention and engagement in the manufacturing and service industry.

Originality/value

The findings of this study reveal how a supportive work environment can impact employee retention among academic staff. Specifically, the person–organisation fit describes the relationship between supportive work environment and employee retention.
Ensemble learning-based CNN for textile fabric defects classification
Authors: Zhao Xueqing , Zhang Min , Zhang Junjun
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Classifying the types of fabric defects in the textile industry requires a way to effectively detect. The traditional textile fabric defects detection method is human eyes, which performs very low efficiency and high cost. Therefore, how to improve the classification accuracy of textile fabric defects by using current artificial intelligence and to better meet the needs in the textile industry, the purpose of this article is to develop a method to improve the accuracy of textile fabric defects classification.

Design/methodology/approach

To improve the accuracy of textile fabric defects classification, an ensemble learning-based convolutional neural network (CNN) method in terms of textile fabric defects classification (short for ECTFDC) on an enhanced TILDA database is used. ECTFDC first adopts ensemble learning-based model to classify five types of fabric defects from TILDA. Subsequently, ECTFDC extracts features of fabric defects via an ensemble multiple convolutional neural network model and obtains parameters by using transfer learning method.

Findings

The authors applied ECTFDC on an enhanced TILDA database to improve the robustness and generalization ability of the proposed networks. Experimental results show that ECTFDC outperforms the other networks, the precision and recall rates are 97.8%, 97.68%, respectively.

Originality/value

The ensemble convolutional neural network textile fabric defect classification method in this paper can quickly and effectively classify textile fabric defect categories; it can reduce the production cost of textiles and it can alleviate the visual fatigue of inspectors working for a long time.
Impact of artificial intelligence on impulse buying behaviour of Indian shoppers in fashion retail outlets
Authors: Jain Shailesh , Gandhi Aradhana Vikas
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the impact of modern technologies such as artificial intelligence on impulse buying behaviour of Indian shoppers specifically in fashion retail outlets.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical study on the effect of artificial intelligence on impulse purchase decisions was conducted through an e-survey of the Indian shoppers. The data collected was analysed using factor analysis and multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The impact of modern technologies which are used by the retailers to enhance sale and consumer engagement was studied. The relationship between use of artificial intelligence parameters such as the purchase duration, recommended products, product information and human interaction and its impact on Impulse Purchase was studied and the results revealed that all these factors except product information had a significant impact on the impulse purchase decision of the buyer.

Practical implications

This study will be useful to the fashion retailers to gauge the effect of incorporating artificial intelligence and its impact on driving sales by attracting shoppers to their outlets.

Originality/value

This study specifically focusses on the impact of modern technologies on impulse purchase of Indian shoppers in fashion retail outlets. Other research works have focussed on impact of visual merchandising, store layouts, store environment and promotional activities on impulse purchases. This is one of the few studies which deals with the impact of artificial intelligence on impulse buying behaviour of Indian shoppers specifically in the fashion retail segment.
Electroencephalogram (EEG) signal classification for brain–computer interface using discrete wavelet transform (DWT)
Authors: Rajashekhar U. , Neelappa D. , Rajesh L.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This work proposes classification of two-class motor imagery electroencephalogram signals using different automated machine learning algorithms. Here data are decomposed into various frequency bands identified by wavelet transform and will span the range of 0–30 Hz.

Design/methodology/approach

Statistical measures will be applied to these frequency bands to identify features that will subsequently be used to train the classifiers. Further, the assessment parameters such as SNR, mean, SD and entropy are calculated to analyze the performance of the proposed work.

Findings

The experimental results show that the proposed work yields better accuracy for all classifiers when compare to state-of-the-art techniques.

Originality/value

The experimental results show that the proposed work yields better accuracy for all classifiers when compare to state-of-the-art techniques.
Digital tools to support teacher professional development in lesson studies: a systematic literature review
Authors: Hrastinski Stefan
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Lesson study is one of the most adopted models of teacher professional development. However, as education has become increasingly digital, this study aims to investigate the use of digital tools to support teacher professional development in lesson studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This article systematically reviews journal articles on the use of digital tools to support teacher professional development in lesson studies.

Findings

While the lesson study model is typically based on the premise that teachers prepare and observe a lesson at a school, the reviewed research suggests that digital tools open new ways to conduct lesson studies. Six themes on the use of digital tools to support teacher professional development in lesson studies are identified: analyzing videos from the teachers' classrooms, analyzing external video resources, fictional animations as a complement to videos, structured digital lesson study work, hybrid teacher collaboration and digital teacher collaboration. Opportunities for further research are suggested.

Practical implications

The identified themes can inspire practice on how to use digital tools to support teacher professional development in lesson studies.

Originality/value

Little attention has been paid to the use of digital tools to support teacher professional development in lesson studies.
Blockchain as supply chain technology: considering transparency and security
Authors: Xu Pei , Lee Joonghee , Barth James R. , Richey Robert Glenn
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper discusses how the features of blockchain technology impact supply chain transparency through the lens of the information security triad (confidentiality, integrity and availability). Ultimately, propositions are developed to encourage future research in supply chain applications of blockchain technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Propositions are developed based on a synthesis of the information security and supply chain transparency literature. Findings from text mining of Twitter data and a discussion of three major blockchain use cases support the development of the propositions.

Findings

The authors note that confidentiality limits supply chain transparency, which causes tension between transparency and security. Integrity and availability promote supply chain transparency. Blockchain features can preserve security and increase transparency at the same time, despite the tension between confidentiality and transparency.

Research limitations/implications

The research was conducted at a time when most blockchain applications were still in pilot stages. The propositions developed should therefore be revisited as blockchain applications become more widely adopted and mature.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to examine the way blockchain technology eases the tension between supply chain transparency and security. Unlike other studies that have suggested only positive impacts of blockchain technology on transparency, this study demonstrates that blockchain features can influence transparency both positively and negatively.
Sustainability balanced scorecard architecture and environmental performance outcomes: a systematic review
Authors: Jassem Suaad , Zakaria Zarina , Che Azmi Anna
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to assess the current state of research on the use of sustainability balanced scorecards (SBSCs), as they relate to environmental performance-related outcomes. It also seeks to present a conceptual framework proposing relationships between SBSC and environmental performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts a systematic literature review of articles published in double-blind peer-reviewed journals that are listed on Scopus and/or Web of Science databases.

Findings

The first part of the paper reveals that two architectures of SBSC appear to be dominant in the literature (SBSC-4 where sustainability parameters are integrated with the four perspectives of the balanced scorecard and SBSC-5 where sustainability is shown as an additional standalone fifth perspective). The next part of the paper presents a conceptual model relating SBSC as decision-making tools to environmental performance outcomes. The paper also indicates that SBSC knowledge mediates the above relationships. Furthermore, based on the theory of expert competence, the presence of experts possibly moderates the relationship between SBSC architecture and environmental performance outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The literature indicates a lack of consensus on establishing a clear linkage on the relationship between SBSC architecture and environmental performance outcomes. As a result, a holistic conceptual framework where SBSC knowledge acts as a mediator and presence of experts as a moderator may be able to provide a more consistent relationship between SBSC architecture and environmental performance outcomes.

Practical implications

The conceptual framework proposed provides factors to be considered by decision makers, for effective outcomes when aiming to achieve environmental stewardship objectives.

Social implications

Environmental performance by business organisations have come under close scrutiny of stakeholders. As a result, the holistic model proposed in the current study may pave the path for decision-makers to achieve superior environmental outcomes, leading to greater satisfaction of stakeholders such as the communities that are impacted by the business operations of an organisation.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to propose a model for future research regarding the link between SBSC and environmental performance outcomes – with expert managers acting as moderators and SBSC knowledge acting as a mediator.
Multi-objective optimization of safety instrumented systems maintenance strategy: a case study
Authors: Touahar Hafed , Ouazraoui Nouara , Khanfri Nor El Houda , Korichi Mourad , Bachi Bilal , Boukrouma Houcem Eddine
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The main objective of safety instrumented systems (SISs) is to maintain a safe condition of a facility if hazardous events occur. However, in some cases, SIS's can be activated prematurely, these activations are characterized in terms of frequency by a Spurious Trip Rate (STR) and their occurrence leads to significant technical, economic and even environmental losses. This work aims to propose an approach to optimize the performances of the SIS by a multi-objective genetic algorithm. The optimization of SIS performances is performed using the multi-objective genetic algorithm by minimizing their probability of failure on demand PFDavg, Spurious Trip Rate (STR) and Life Cycle Costs (LCCavg). A set of constraints related to maintenance costs have been established. These constraints imply specific maintenance strategies which improve the SIS performances and minimize the technical, economic and environmental risks related to spurious shutdowns. Validation of such an approach is applied to an Emergency Shutdown (ESD) of the blower section of an industrial facility (RGTE- In Amenas).

Design/methodology/approach

The optimization of SIS performances is performed using the multi-objective genetic algorithm by minimizing their probability of failure on demand PFDavg, Spurious Trip Rate (STR) and Life Cycle Costs (LCCavg). A set of constraints related to maintenance costs have been established. These constraints imply specific maintenance strategies which improve the SIS performances and minimize the technical, economic and environmental risks related to spurious shutdowns. Validation of such an approach is applied to an Emergency Shutdown (ESD) of the blower section of an industrial facility (RGTE- In Amenas).

Findings

A case study concerning a safety instrumented system implemented in the RGTE facility has shown the great applicability of the proposed approach and the results are encouraging. The results show that the selection of a good maintenance strategy allows a very significant minimization of the PFDavg, the frequency of spurious trips and Life Cycle Costs of SIS.

Originality/value

The maintenance strategy defined by the system designer can be modified and improved during the operational phase, in particular safety systems. It constitutes one of the least expensive investment strategies for improving SIS performances. It has allowed a considerable minimization of the SIS life cycle costs; PFDavg and the frequency of spurious trips.
New framework for the management of waqf land registration system in Malaysia
Authors: Ghazali Noor Azimah , Sipan Ibrahim , Haji Mohammad Mohammad Tahir Sabit , Ab Aziz Muhammad Arif
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a new framework for the management of a waqf land registration system in Malaysia that is compliant with Islamic law and the Malaysian legal system. The study sought to answer the following two research questions: what are the issues of the waqf land registration system and how to solve the issues of waqf land registration in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative research method by using content analysis, legal investigation and doctrinal research. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with lawyers, academicians and executive officers from the Department of Land and Mines, the State Islamic Religious Council and reviewed documents mainly from the Department of Waqf, Zakat and Hajj Malaysia.

Findings

A new framework for the management of waqf land registration in Malaysia was identified, which was developed based on current waqf issues such as problematic registration methods, lengthy and complicated procedures, interference in the jurisdiction of the civil court and idle waqf land. The framework overcame the flaw of the previous waqf land registration system in Malaysia.

Originality/value

The new framework will provide solutions to the current registration system within the National Land Code, 1965, which will secure property in the future.
Enhancing supply chain sensing capability through social media: an environmental scanning perspective
Authors: Song Jiahe , Lee Kang-Bok , Zhou Zhongyun , Jia Lin , Cegielski Casey , Shin Soo Il
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationship between social media and sensing capability for supply chain management (SCM) from an environmental scanning perspective. The authors consider upstream supply and downstream customer markets as two aspects of social media-enabled environmental scanning (SMES). The moderating effects of three uncertainties are explored.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 178 supply chain professionals through a survey. Generalized estimating equations (GEE) were used to analyze the data.

Findings

SMES in both supply and customer markets enhance sensing capability. Interestingly, the results reveal an accelerating effect on sensing by the incremental effort of SMES-supply. However, that of SMES-customer leads to a decelerating outcome for sensing. Also, uncertainties, especially the demand- and technology-related, play a series of interacting effects according to SMES levels.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to the literature of operations and supply chains regarding social media strategies and dynamic capabilities. It opens the black box of environmental scanning behavior on social media and adds new knowledge on the dynamic influence of such behavior toward organizational sensing capability for SCM. In addition, further understanding on supply chain uncertainty as a moderator is also strengthened through this research.

Originality/value

This research is the first to empirically uncover the effect of social media on sensing capability for SCM through the lens of environmental scanning. The results support the employment of social networking for improving supply and demand sensing.