bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exosomal miRNAs from maternal vaginal discharge as biomarkers for preterm labor: non-invasive liquid biopsy
Authors: Kim Taewoon , Park Jee Yoon , Lee Hyo Jin , Choi Bo young , Kim Hyeon Ji , Lee Luke P. , Hong Jong Wook
Published: April 2024

Preterm labor is a serious issue that can lead to preterm birth, posing significant risks to both the mother and the neonate. Despite the high incidence of approximately 15 million preterm births worldwide per year, there is a lack of sufficient strategies for predicting and preventing preterm labor. Here, we found that exosomal miRNAs in maternal vaginal discharge can serve as biomarkers for early diagnosis of life-threatening conditions in both the mother and neonate. Our non-invasive biopsy of vaginal discharge using a swab allows us to isolate enriched exosomes via an advanced microfluidic platform called BEST (Biologically intact Exosome Separation Technology). We have identified specific miRNAs differentially expressed in mothers with preterm labor compared to those with full-term mothers. These miRNAs included hsa-miR-206, which was up-regulated in preterm labor, and hsa-miR-3674, hsa-miR-365a-5p, and hsa-miR-193b-3p, which were down-regulated. We believe our discovery of unique miRNAs as biomarkers can aid in early detection and effective treatment of preterm labor, potentially revolutionizing global healthcare.
A grounded theory study of beliefs underlying use of ancestral spirits for healing among Baganda traditional spiritual healers in Central Uganda
Authors: Sekagya Yahaya H. K. , Muchunguzi Charles , Unnikrishnan Payyappallimana , Mulogo Edgar M.
Published: April 2024

The increasing global sensitivity to spirituality in medicine and sociology has elevated the relevance of beliefs in ancestral spirits as an integral element in Africa’s multi-ethnic society and biocultural diversity for health management. However, ancestral spirituality in healthcare in the local context, remains sparse and elusive since most literature relates spirituality with religion and religious practices. The study sought to explore the beliefs in ancestral spirits utilized for health management among practicing Baganda traditional spiritual healers (Balubaale). Qualitative data were gathered through semi-structured in-depth interviews and partial integration observation methods from twelve (10M, 2F) purposively selected and recruitedBalubaalefrom Central Uganda between 15thJuly 2019 and 29thApril 2020, and we prospectively interacted with them for 24 months. Transcribed data was coded and thematically analyzed using ATLAS ti. 22 computer software based on grounded theory approach. Data revealed themes related to beliefs in spiritual powers of categories of ancestral spirits, sacred places, living plants and animals, non-living things such as fire, water, the Sun, and non-materials such as symbols and colors. Spiritual powers can be potentiated through rituals, sacrifice and communal activities all of which are utilized during health managements. In conclusion,Balubaalebelieve that illness and health management are influenced by ancestral spirits and spiritual powers contained in nature and creation therein. We recommend more exploratory studies among spiritualists of other tribes to contrast the findings.
Cumulative risk of revision after primary total hip arthroplasty in registries: Systematic review and meta-analysis of selected hip stems and cups
Authors: Combescure Christophe , Smith James A , Barea Christophe , Hoogervorst Lotje A. , Nelissen Rob , Marang-van de Mheen Perla J , Lübbeke Anne ,   the arthroplasty registry group
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objective was to investigate the consistency in cumulative revision rates for a selection of total hip arthroplasty cups and stems across national/regional hip arthroplasty registries worldwide.

Methods

Ten cups and 10 stems from total hip systems were randomly selected. Two frequently used implants across registries were added, totalling 11 cups and 11 stems. Cumulative revision rates (CRR) and 95%CIs were extracted from the latest annual registry reports using these implants. CRRs were pooled for each cup or stem, and differences between cup-stem combinations and between registries were investigated.

Results

CRRs were available for 10 cups and 8 stems from 8 registries, totalling 552,148 cups and 727,447 stems. Follow-up was 1-20 years. Five-year CRRs pooled on all cups was 2.9% (95%CI 2.3 to 3.6) and on all stems 3.0% (95%CI 2.4 to 3.8). Homogenous (consistent) CRRs with respect to both, associated implant and country, were observed for 2 cups and 3 stems. Significant differences in CRR were identified in 1 cup by associated implant only, in 1 cup by registry only, and in 2 cups and 4 stems for both. Sparse data prevented evaluation of 4 cups and 1 stem.

Conclusion

Registries’ annual reports provide a large amount of publicly available information on CRRs of specific implants. These CRRs can be synthesized to improve the assessment of implant performance over time. Our CRR analysis represents a promising approach to detect implants with a consistent low- or high-risk pattern across registries.
Self-reported concussion history is not related to cortical volume in college athletes
Authors: Schultz Douglas H. , Bouchard Heather C. , Barbot Michelle C. , Laing-Young Julia M. , Chiao Amanda , Higgins Kate L. , Savage Cary R. , Neta Maital
Published: April 2024

The long-term consequences of concussion are still being uncovered but have been linked to disruptions in cognition and psychological well-being. Previous studies focusing on the association between concussion history and structural changes in the brain have reported inconsistent results. We sought to examine the effect of concussion history on cortical volume with a focus on functional networks. These networks are associated with many of the functions that can be disrupted in those with an extensive concussion history. Collegiate athletes (n=296) in the present study who self-reported concussion history did not report different baseline symptoms and did not exhibit consistent differences in cognitive performance relative to those who reported no concussion history. We found that concussion history was not related to cortical volume at the network or region level, even when we compared participants with two or more concussions to those with no concussion history. We did identify relationships between cortical volume in the visual network and dorsal attention network with cognitive performance. In addition to comparing cortical volume between individuals with and without reported concussion history, we also examined whether cortical volume changes could be observed within individuals from baseline to acutely following concussion. We found that network level cortical volume did not change within subjects from baseline measurement to acutely post-concussion. Together, these results suggest that both self-reported concussion history and acute concussion effects are not associated with changes in cortical volume in young adult athletes.
SP110 sequestration of SP100 protects against toxic filaments during innate immune signaling
Authors: Aird Eric J. , Rabl Julius , Knuesel Tabea , Scherpe Lynn , Boehringer Daniel , Corn Jacob E.
Published: April 2024

Stimulation of the innate immune system by foreign RNA elicits a potent response against invading pathogens and can trigger cell death. The mechanisms by which cells balance a robust response with cell-intrinsic lethality are still being uncovered. Employing genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 genetic screens with triphosphorylated RNA stimulation, we identify speckled protein 110 (SP110) as a potent negative regulator of type 1 interferon-driven cell death. Death suppression by SP110 counteracts a death-promoting activity of another speckled protein, SP100. Both SP110 suppression and SP100 toxicity are mediated by direct interactions between the caspase activation and recruitment domains (CARDs) in each protein. SP100-induced death is mediated by homomeric CARD filaments that are disassembled by a heteromeric CARD interaction with SP110. Overexpression of SP100 is sufficient to overwhelm normal levels of SP110, leading to genotoxicity. Using cryo-EM and AlphaFold modeling, we develop and validate an atomic description of SP100 CARD filament formation and filament breaking by SP110. Genome-wide binding studies reveal that SP110 and SP100 normally associate at active promoters, but disruption of the CARD interaction releases SP100 to form toxic filaments. Overall, we uncover a novel regulatory partnership in human innate immunity that balances signal potency with cell intrinsic lethality.
A robust platform for BaEVRless-lentiviral synthesis and primary natural killer cell transduction
Authors: Lan Yi-Jun , Nguyen Quoc Viet , Chao Tsu-Lan , Yeh Kuo-Lun , Lin Steven
Published: April 2024

Lentiviral vectors are invaluable tools for genetic modification in human cells for research, biotechnological and clinical applications. However, certain cell types, such as primary human natural killer (NK) cells, present challenges in lentiviral transduction. Overcoming this limitation requires specific pseudotype modifications. BaEVRless-pseudotyped lentivirus (BaEVRless-LV) has shown promise in efficiently transducing human NK cells, B cells, and hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). BaEVRless, a modified envelope protein derived from Baboon endogenous retrovirus, targets ASCT receptors in human cells. While effective for several immune cell types, BaEVRless-LV production in standard HEK293T cells is challenging. During lentiviral synthesis, BaEVRless protein induces hyper cell fusion, leading to rapid HEK293T cell death and reduced BaEVRless-LV titers. To solve this problem, we used CRISPR genome editing to knockout (KO) theASCT2gene in HEK293T cells, thereby abolishing BaEVRless-induced cell fusion. Using theASCT2-KO cells and an optimized viral production protocol, we efficiently packaged high titers of BaEVRless-LV encoding various transgenes, includingturbogfp, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR), and a pooled CRISPR sgRNA library. Our robust BaEVRless-LV synthesis platform is readily adaptable for manufacturing cell therapeutics and enables advanced research techniques such as CRISPR genetic screens in primary NK cells.
The impact of cooking and burial on proteins: a characterisation of experimental foodcrusts and ceramics
Authors: Evans Miranda , Hagan Richard , Boyd Oliver , Bondetti Manon , Craig Oliver , Collins Matthew , Hendy Jessica
Published: April 2024

Foodcrusts have received relatively little attention in the burgeoning field of proteomic analysis of ancient cuisine. We remain ignorant of how cooking and burial impacts protein survival, and crucially, the extent to which the extractome reflects the composition of input ingredients. Therefore, through experimental analogues we explore the extent of protein survival in unburied and buried foodcrusts and ceramics using ‘typical’ Mesolithic ingredients (red deer, Atlantic salmon and sweet chestnut). We then explore a number of physiochemical properties theorised to aid protein preservation. The results reveal that proteins were much more likely to be detected in foodcrusts than ceramics using the methodology employed, input ingredient strongly influences protein preservation, and that degradation is not universal nor linear between proteins, indicating that multiple protein physiochemical properties are at play. While certain properties such as hydrophobicity apparently aid protein preservation, none single-handedly explain why particular proteins/peptides survive in buried foodcrusts: this complex interplay requires further investigation. The findings demonstrate that proteins indicative of the input ingredient can be identifiable in foodcrust, but that the full proteome is unlikely to preserve. While this shows promise for the survival of proteins in archaeological foodcrust, further research is needed to accurately interpret foodcrust extractomes.
Understanding the biosynthesis, metabolic regulation, and anti-phytopathogen activity of 3,7-dihydroxytropolone inPseudomonasspp
Authors: Moffat Alaster D. , Höing Lars , Santos-Aberturas Javier , Markwalder Tim , Malone Jacob G. , Teufel Robin , Truman Andrew W.
Published: April 2024

The genusPseudomonasis a prolific source of specialized metabolites with significant biological activities, including siderophores, antibiotics, and plant hormones. These molecules play pivotal roles in environmental interactions, influencing pathogenicity, inhibiting microorganisms, responding to nutrient limitation and abiotic challenges, and regulating plant growth. These properties mean that pseudomonads are candidates as biological control agents against plant pathogens. Multiple transposon-based screens have identified aPseudomonasbiosynthetic gene cluster (BGC) associated with potent antibacterial and antifungal activity that produces 7-hydroxytropolone (7-HT). In this study, we show that this BGC also makes 3,7-dihydroxytropolone (3,7-dHT), which has strong antimicrobial activity towardsStreptomyces scabies, a potato pathogen. Both molecules exhibit broad biological activities, suggesting roles in competitive soil and plant microbial communities. Through metabolomics and reporter assays, we unveil the involvement of cluster-situated genes in generating phenylacetyl-coenzyme A, a key precursor for tropolone biosynthesis via the phenylacetic acid catabolon. The clustering of these phenylacetic acid genes within tropolone BGCs is unusual in other Gram-negative bacteria. Our findings support the interception of phenylacetic acid catabolism via an enoyl-CoA dehydratase encoded in the BGC, as well as highlighting an essential biosynthetic role for a conserved thioesterase. Biochemical assays were used to show that this thioesterase functions after a dehydrogenation-epoxidation step catalysed by a flavoprotein. We use this information to identify diverse uncharacterised BGCs that encode proteins with homology to flavoproteins and thioesterases involved in tropolone biosynthesis. This study provides insights into tropolone biosynthesis inPseudomonas, laying the foundation for further investigations into the ecological role of tropolone production.
B→D*ℓνℓ
semileptonic form factors from lattice QCD with Möbius domain-wall quarks
Authors: Aoki Y. , Colquhoun B. , Fukaya H. , Hashimoto S. , Kaneko T. , Kellermann R. , Koponen J. , Kou E. ,   JLQCD Collaboration
Published: April 2024

We calculate the form factors for the B→D*ℓνℓ decay in 2+1 flavor lattice QCD. For all quark flavors, we employ the Möbius domain-wall action, which preserves chiral symmetry to a good precision. Our gauge ensembles are generated at three lattice cutoffs a−1∼2.5, 3.6, and 4.5 GeV with pion masses as low as Mπ∼230  MeV. The physical lattice size L satisfies the condition MπL≥4 to control finite volume effects (FVEs), while we simulate a smaller size at the smallest Mπ to directly examine FVEs. The bottom quark masses are chosen in a range from the physical charm quark mass to

0.7

a

−

1

to control discretization effects. We extrapolate the form factors to the continuum limit and physical quark masses based on heavy meson chiral perturbation theory at next-to-leading order. Then the recoil parameter dependence is parametrized using a model independent form leading to our estimate of the decay rate ratio between the tau (ℓ=τ) and light lepton (ℓ=e, μ) channels R(D*)=0.252(22) in the Standard Model. A simultaneous fit with recent data from the Belle experiment yields |Vcb|=39.19(91)×10−3, which is consistent with previous exclusive determinations, and shows good consistency in the kinematical distribution of the differential decay rate between the lattice and experimental data.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Baryogenesis and dark matter in multiple hidden sectors
Authors: Easa Hassan , Gregoire Thomas , Stolarski Daniel , Cosme Catarina
Published: April 2024

We explore a mechanism for producing the baryon asymmetry and dark matter in models with multiple hidden sectors that are Standard-Model-like but with varying Higgs mass parameters. If the field responsible for reheating the Standard Model and the exotic sectors carries an asymmetry, it can be converted into a baryon asymmetry using the standard sphaleron process. A hidden sector with positive Higgs mass squared can accommodate dark matter with its baryon asymmetry, and the larger abundance of dark matter relative to baryons is due to dark sphalerons being active all the way down the hidden sector QCD scale. This scenario predicts that dark matter is clustered in large dark nuclei and gives a lower bound on the effective relativistic degrees of freedom, ΔNeff≳0.05, which may be observable in the next-generation cosmic microwave background experiment CMB-S4.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
N=8
invariant interaction of dynamical and semidynamical
N=4
multiplets
Authors: Fedoruk Sergey , Ivanov Evgeny
Published: April 2024

We present a new model of N=8 mechanics with semidynamic supermultiplets. The model is constructed as an interaction of N=4 supermultiplets which carry an implicit N=4 supersymmetry. The initial field content consists of three dynamical (1,4,3) multiplets: one bosonic and two fermionic. To ensure implicit N=4 supersymmetry, we introduce the superfields describing three semidynamical (4,4,0) multiplets: one fermionic and two bosonic. To avoid the second-order Lagrangian for fermions from the fermionic (1,4,3) multiplets, we convert their velocities into new auxiliary fields. After conversion, these multiplets turn into semidynamical mirror (4,4,0) multiplets without noncanonical terms in the N=8 Lagrangian at the component level. The final N=8 multiplet content is (1,8,7)⊕(8,8,0). As a first step to the ultimate N=4 superfield formulation of the model, we recall a natural description of the standard and mirror (4,4,0) multiplets in the framework of N=4,d=1 biharmonic superspace.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
O(D,D)
-covariant formulation of perfect and imperfect fluids in the double geometry
Authors: Lescano Eric , Mirón-Granese Nahuel , Sakatani Yuho
Published: April 2024

We study generic matter coupled to a D-dimensional supergravity using a formulation of double field theory (DFT), where all the fields are encoded in O(D,D) multiplets. We study both the case when the matter comes from a variational principle, as well as the case where the matter comes from a statistical or thermodynamic approach. For the latter, we construct the distribution function for the perfect fluid and its entropy current, which is a conserved quantity. We then include general viscous and elastic terms in the generalized energy-momentum tensor which, in the general case, lead to entropy production. We consistently deform the conservation law of the generalized entropy current and identify a particular nondissipative deformation. Using the generalized fluid model, we revisit the issue of noncovariance of perfect fluids under T-dualities and we show how to resolve it in our DFT model with matter.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Why might home-based work duties be perceived by female academics as extreme? A qualitative study
Authors: Mousa Mohamed , Avolio Beatrice
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to answer the following question: Why might home-based work duties be perceived by female academics as extreme?

Design/methodology/approach

We employed a qualitative research method through semi-structured interviews with 33 female academics from three public universities selected from amongst 26 public institutions of higher education in Egypt. Thematic analysis was subsequently used to determine the main ideas in the transcripts.

Findings

We find that the sudden implementation of home-based work makes the academic duties of female academics extreme. Moreover, the following four factors help explain the extremity/intensity of the home-based work of female academics: mental and physical fatigue resulting from WFH, the inability to adequately meet family commitments when working from home (WFH), poor resources for home-based work and reduced ability to focus on the obstacles facing them in their academic career.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by filling a gap in human resources management and higher education in which empirical studies on female academics WFH and extreme academic duties have been limited so far.
How social media marketing activities affect brand loyalty? Mediating role of brand experience
Authors: Kumar Sushant , Hsieh Jung-Kuei
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Increasingly brands are performing several activities on social media in order to alter consumer consumption towards their offering. However, limited studies have attempted to understand as how activities on social media influence usage intentions and brand loyalty. Thus, this study aims to examine the influence of social media marketing activities (SMMA) on brand experience and its association with continued usage intentions (CUI) and brand loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conceptualized a research model by using the theoretical premise of stimulus-organism-response theory. SMMA acts as stimulus, four (sensory, affective, behavioral and intellectual) elements of brand experience act as organism, and CUI and brand loyalty act as response. A survey-based questionnaire is used to collect data from 309 respondents. The hypothesized associations of research model were examined using the structural equation modeling approach.

Findings

Results of the study are in line with hypothesized associations among constructs. Results suggest that SMMA is associated with all four elements of brand experience. Also, affective, behavioral and intellectual aspects of brand experience are associated with CUI which influence brand loyalty. The moderating role of education on hypothesized association and the mediating role of organism are also confirmed.

Originality/value

Using stimulus-organism-response theory, this study confirms that SMMA are associated with sensory, affective, behavioral and intellectual aspect of brand experience which has not been examined so far. Also, the novel findings of study add to existing literature of SMMA, brand experience and brand loyalty. The study further contributes to literature by showing the moderation effect of education.
Optimising construction waste management in Sri Lanka through Circular economy strategies: a focus on construction and renovation and use and operate stages
Authors: Victar Hasith Chathuranga , Waidyasekara Anuradha Samarajeewa
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Construction and Demolition (C&D) Waste Management (WM) poses significant challenges in Sri Lanka, contributing to environmental degradation and resource depletion. To address these issues, this study explores the application of Circular Economy (CE) strategies in minimising waste generation and optimising resource utilisation in Sri Lankan construction industry. The research focuses on the construction and building renovation and use and operate stages of the building project life cycle, recognising their significance in waste generation and resource consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

The research employed a qualitative approach, utilising the Delphi technique through three rounds of expert interviews. Seventeen experts were involved in the first round, followed by fifteen in the second round, and twelve in the final round. The collected data was analysed using manual content analysis methods.

Findings

The research findings revealed fifteen C&D WM issues in the construction and building renovation stage in Sri Lanka, along with suitable strategies to overcome each of them. Similarly, eight C&D WM issues were identified for the use and operate stage of the building, and corresponding strategies were provided to address each issue. By adopting CE strategies such as modular design and material reuse, construction projects can optimise the project's timeline, cost, and quality factors. These strategies enable efficient resource allocation, reduce waste generation, and contribute to the overall sustainability of the project. The impact of CE strategies on mitigating these issues within the project management iron triangle was also discussed.

Originality/value

This paper entails delving into how construction, building renovation, and operation stages of a building's life cycle intersect with CE strategies, which profoundly influence operational efficiency and long-term sustainability. By incorporating principles such as energy efficiency, water conservation, and circular product design, the paper illuminates how these strategies facilitate decreased energy usage, enhanced resource management, and diminished waste production throughout the building's lifespan.
Social enterprise governance and labor equity: the emerging role of work-integrated social enterprises in a niche labor market
Authors: Lee Misun , Brower Ralph S. , Fay Daniel L.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper analyzes how a national social enterprise policy encourages the social missions of social enterprises and uncovers the relationships between social enterprise governance and labor equity, an area that has been rarely studied in nonprofit governance studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study analyzes the effects of four legal requirements for work-integrated social enterprises (WISEs) codified by the Social Enterprises Promotion Act (SEPA, 2007) in South Korea. Then, it relies on panel regression analysis (2020–2022) to examine how the compositions of the governance of WISEs are related to their hiring and wage equity.

Findings

The institutional arrangements required by SEPA have resulted in positive social impacts for most WISEs. However, the results of regression models show that individual participant groups in the WISE governance achieved mixed results depending on the labor issue.

Research limitations/implications

Generally, this research explores the concept of diversity and its utility in nonprofit governance, with a particular focus on targeted diversity policies, demonstrating that governance arrangements influence the success of these policies.

Practical implications

The findings bring new insights for policymakers about “altruistic economic entities.” For practitioners in social enterprises, the results of the regression models underscore the importance of understanding the participant composition of decision-making meetings.

Originality/value

This study sheds light on labor equity, which government-certified social enterprises should achieve from the perspective of nonprofit governance.
Financial technology and economic growth nexus in the East African community states
Authors: Ngong Chi Aloysius , Thaddeus Kesuh Jude , Onwumere Josaphat Uchechukwu Joe
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the causation linking financial technology to economic growth in the East African Community states from 1997 to 2019.

Design/methodology/approach

Autoregressive distributed lag is used. Gross domestic product per capita proxies economic growth, automated teller machines, point of sale, debit card ownership and mobile banking measure financial technology.

Findings

The results unveil a significant relationship between financial technology and economic growth. The findings show bidirectional causality between automated teller machine and economic growth, with unidirectional causation from economic growth to point of sales and internet banking, mobile banking and government effectiveness to economic growth. The error correction term is negatively significant, demonstrating a long-term convergence between Fintech measures and economic growth.

Research limitations/implications

The governments should effectively enact and implement policies that protect investments in financial technologies to boost economic growth in the East African Community countries. The government should reduce taxes on financial technology equipment and related services. The use of automated teller machine, debit card ownership and internet banking should be encouraged through cashless transactions. Financial institutions should adopt cashless operation policies to encourage the use of financial technologies.

Originality/value

Research results on the bond between financial technology and economic growth are not conclusive. These studies demonstrate that technological innovations are double edged-swords, with both positive and negative sides. The results are conflicting; some reveal positive relationships, while others show negative links. Hence, research is required to fill the lacuna.
The mediating role of marketing management in the relationship between online presence and product innovation among SMEs
Authors: Pérez-Orozco Allan , Leiva Juan Carlos , Mora-Esquivel Ronald
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study explores the mediating role of marketing management in the relationship between online presence and product innovation among Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).

Design/methodology/approach

The sample comprises 205 Costa Rican SMEs collected by the Global Competitiveness Project during the first half of 2019. The data were analyzed using a two-stage modeling strategy for ordinary regression models to analyze mediation effects.

Findings

Marketing management as a strategic resource or capability accounts for the relationship between online presence and product innovation performance in SMEs, meaning that online presence resources require complementary organizational capabilities in marketing management to enhance product innovation.

Originality/value

This study, grounded in the resource-based view theory, contributes to the innovation field by identifying marketing management capabilities as an intermediate strategic interaction between online presence and product innovation performance in SMEs. Thus, managers should recognize the advantages of integrating marketing management principles and tactics into online presence tools to realize the value of their products by tailoring them to their client’s needs.
Open innovation and new product development: major themes and research trajectories
Authors: Rautela Sonica
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to review the extant literature on open innovation and new product development (NPD) using bibliometric analysis to gauge the evolving journey of this concept in the domain of Business and Management.

Design/methodology/approach

The researcher used the Scopus database to search the relevant documents for bibliometric analysis. The data range was from 2006 till June 2023. Citation analysis, co-citation analysis and co-occurrence of authors' keywords were used for bibliometric analysis.

Findings

The paper charts the intellectual structure of literature related to open innovation and NPD. The five major themes emerge as prominent themes in the literature, i.e. Open Innovation: Conceptualization, Dynamic Capabilities and Competitive Advantages; Open Innovation: Contingencies and Possibilities; Co-creation and New Product Development (NPD); Open Innovation for Businesses: A Shifting Paradigm; and Implementing of Open Innovation in Industries: Cases. Besides this, the study also reveals the most influential authors, journals and countries in their contribution to open innovation and new product development. Future research directions are also presented.

Practical implications

The present study contributes on academic and managerial fronts. The study provides important insights contributing to the open innovation and NPD literature. From the organizational point of view, the study provides a detailed understanding of the concept of open innovation and NPD that can aid managers in acquiring a comprehensive knowledge of the concept before using it as a strategic intervention.

Originality/value

The present study identifies the gradual progression of this research area over time. It delineates key themes emerging from past literature, providing avenues for future research.
Willingness to pay for insurance against mobile money fraud: evidence from Ghana
Authors: Ayifah Rebecca Nana Yaa , Adda Adriana Apawo
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The rapid growth of the mobile money industry has been matched by a rise in mobile money fraud. The technology required to apprehend perpetrators of such fraud is nonexistent in most developing countries. Hence, the need for individuals to be willing to pay for insurance against such frauds is crucial. This paper aims to examine individuals’ willingness to pay for insurance against mobile money fraud in Ghana.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses nationally representative data collected from 4,266 adults (persons 18 years and above) in Ghana. Individuals’ willingness to pay premiums for protection against mobile money fraud was elicited by a single-bound dichotomous choice and open-ended contingent valuation designs.

Findings

On average, 24.34% of Ghanaians are willing to pay premiums for insurance against mobile money frauds, with more men (26.37%) being willing than women (22.56%). Similarly, the average monthly premium that men are willing to pay for protection against mobile money fraud is GH¢32.16 (US$8.16), while that of women is GH¢22.5 (US$5.62). Furthermore, the results show that years of schooling, income, previous fraud experience, and using the accounts for saving are all positively associated with willingness to pay. However, using other networks apart from MTN has a negative association with willingness to pay.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study that examines willingness to pay for insurance against mobile money fraud. Thus, this is the first that estimate quantitatively how much mobile account holders will pay as premiums for insurance against mobile money fraud.
An activity theory analysis of digital innovation orchestration in Industry 4.0
Authors: Carbajal Piña Carlos Alberto , Acur Nuran , Cetindamar Dilek
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper explores the orchestration of digital innovation in Industry 4.0 organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies the activity theory to explorative multiple case studies. Observations of innovation activities in five business cases take place at two large international organisations.

Findings

The results underline five logics of action that drive digital innovation: (1) digital transformation, (2) technology translation, (3) catalyst agents, (4) digital thread and (5) empowerment. Further, the case study organisations highlight the importance of developing a sustainable culture capable of continuously adopting new technologies, processes and infrastructure that will allow the management of digital innovations.

Originality/value

The study empirically shows the motivations and challenges in orchestrating digital innovation in Industry 4.0 organisations.
What comes around, goes around: how neo/normative control accidently enables its own resistance
Authors: Krysfeldt Maria , Christensen Jannick Friis , Burø Thomas
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The paper discusses how the management of a sports and fashion company, which we refer to as NULMA, successfully applied the neo/normative control technology “karma organisation” and gained employee engagement. Whereas other studies have documented employee resistance to organisational cultures when used for managerial control, our case demonstrates resistance to management practices that employees find inconsistent with the dominant karma culture.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a six-year longitudinal organisational at-home ethnography conducted by one of the authors using methods of both participant and non-participant observation, semi-structured interviews and collaborative production of secondary data in the case organisation.

Findings

While our research shows that management can successfully apply neo/normative control which employees accept and support, we further show that employees mobilise the same values to resist management when it fails to deliver on the commitments and promises of the organisational culture.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the literature on organisational culture and, in particular, neo/normative control by theorising employee resistance as being by “accident”, by which we mean an inherent negative potentiality co-invented and released by managers establishing a “karma organisation”. Our theorising culminates in a discussion of the study’s implications for research and practice.
Reducing poverty by digitization: what role do information and communication technologies (ICTs) play in reducing poverty?
Authors: Sharma Arpit , Dean Benjamin P. , Bezjian James
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objective of this study is to address this central question: “What role do ICTs play in reducing poverty?”

Design/methodology/approach

First, in this study, we defined poverty in terms of its roots within health, economic development and education. Then, we conducted a systematic review of the information and communication technologies (ICTs) literature. From our analysis, we proposed a series of subsidiary questions and in-depth answers about the impact of ICTs on alleviating health-related, economic and educational causes of poverty.

Findings

This study observed positive effects of ICTs on healthcare, economic and educational dynamics and concluded that the development of more advanced infrastructure and greater access to such technology can amplify that impact.

Originality/value

This article explains how applications of ICT across sectors can substantially enhance quality of life and give people an opportunity to take control of their health-related, economic and educational futures. This study uniquely affords an integrative analysis of research and new thought about how to integrate key ICTs for more effective initiatives and investments to reduce poverty.
Developmental leadership as a driver of employee feedback behaviors: the roles of learning goal orientation and leader high performance expectations
Authors: Wang Zhen , Song Yao
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Drawing on goal orientation theory, this study intends to investigate whether, how and when developmental leadership influences employees’ feedback seeking behavior (FSB) and feedback avoidance behavior (FAB).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a two-wave survey of 416 full-time employees in China. The hypotheses were tested with path analyses.

Findings

Developmental leadership exerts a positive influence on employees’ FSB and a negative impact on FAB through learning goal orientation (LGO). Additionally, leaders’ high performance expectations (LHPE) not only strengthen the positive effects of developmental leadership on FSB but also intensify its weakening effects on FAB.

Originality/value

The findings enrich current understanding by associating developmental leadership with employees’ FSB/FAB, offering a new viewpoint on its positive impacts. This study also provides deeper insights into when the benefits of developmental leadership are intensified.
Induced alterations driven compromised structural properties in additively manufactured products
Authors: Haghnegahdar Lida , Joshi Sameehan S. , Yanambaka Venkata Rohith , Riley Daniel A. , Dahotre Narendra B.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Additive manufacturing also known as 3D printing is an evolving advanced manufacturing technology critical for the new era of complex machinery and operating systems. Manufacturing systems are increasingly faced with risk of attacks not only by traditional malicious actors such as hackers and cyber-criminals but also by some competitors and organizations engaged in corporate espionage. This paper aims to elaborate a plausible risk practice of designing and demonstrate a case study for the compromised-based malicious for polymer 3D printing system.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assumes conditions when a machine was compromised and evaluates the effect of post compromised attack by studying its effects on tensile dog bone specimens as the printed object. The designed algorithm removed predetermined specific number of layers from the tensile samples. The samples were visually identical in terms of external physical dimensions even after removal of the layers. Samples were examined nondestructively for density. Additionally, destructive uniaxial tensile tests were carried out on the modified samples and compared to the unmodified sample as a control for various mechanical properties. It is worth noting that the current approach was adapted for illustrating the impact of cyber altercations on properties of additively produced parts in a quantitative manner. It concurrently pointed towards the vulnerabilities of advanced manufacturing systems and a need for designing robust mitigation/defense mechanism against the cyber altercations.

Findings

Density, Young’s modulus and maximum strength steadily decreased with an increase in the number of missing layers, whereas a no clear trend was observed in the case of % elongation. Post tensile test observations of the sample cross-sections confirmed the successful removal of the layers from the samples by the designed method. As a result, the current work presented a cyber-attack model and its quantitative implications on the mechanical properties of 3D printed objects.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the original work from the team. It is currently not under consideration for publication in any other avenue. The paper provides quantitative approach of realizing impact of cyber intrusions on deteriorated performance of additively manufactured products. It also enlists important intrusion mechanisms relevant to additive manufacturing.
The influence of 360-degree VR videos on tourism web usage behaviour: the role of web navigability and visual interface design quality
Authors: Rafi Kifayat Nahiyan , Gani Mohammad Osman , Hashim Nik Mohd Hazrul Nik , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir , Masukujjaman Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Using the stimulus–organism–response (SOR) theoretical model, this empirical research aims to examine and validate how tourists’ interactions with 360-degree virtual reality (VR) videos incorporating Web navigability and visual interface design quality (stimulus) on travel websites can make tourists more engaged and then satisfied (organism), which could make them more likely to visit destinations and spread electronic word of mouth (e-WOM) (response).

Design/methodology/approach

Using the convenience sampling method, 975 responses were collected through a questionnaire. The data were analysed using Smart-PLS 4 software to investigate the hypothesised relationships.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that 360-degree VR videos significantly create Web user engagement, and Web user engagement is significantly associated with Web user satisfaction. The result shows that Web user engagement and satisfaction impact the intention to visit the tourist destination. Additionally, Web user satisfaction impacts e-WOM. Lastly, navigability and visual interface design quality are significantly moderated between 360-degree VR videos and Web user engagement.

Research limitations/implications

This research only examined the tourists’ behavioural intentions with 360-degree VR videos during the pre-travel phase. In contrast, future research may investigate how tourists behave with VR during the on-site and post-travel phases.

Practical implications

Tourism marketers should not only adopt 360-degree VR but also integrate Web navigability and visual interface design to boost Web users’ engagement on tourism websites.

Originality/value

This study advances the study of VR from the tourists’ psychological perspective. Moreover, the SOR theory has been re-examined from the VR and technology tourism perspectives. It provides a general understanding of the behavioural aspects of tourists in developing countries.
Impact of carbon pricing on comparative advantage in environmental goods export in sub‐Saharan Africa: Evidence of asymmetries from South Africa
Authors: Anisiuba Chika A. , Ezeaku Hillary Chijindu , Takon Samuel Manyo , Iyke‐Ofoedu Maureen Ifeoma , Ibe Godwin Imo , Egbo Obiamaka P.
Published: April 2024

This paper examines the asymmetric link between carbon pricing and the comparative advantage in environmental goods exports in South Africa from 1995 to 2021. The non‐linear autoregressive distributed lag model is utilized to investigate the effects of both minor and major positive and negative fluctuations in carbon taxes, technological innovation, and energy transition on comparative advantage. The results reveal that carbon taxes have an asymmetric effect on comparative advantage in both the short and long runs, with positive shocks exerting a greater beneficial influence than negative shocks. Specifically, it is found that a 1% reduction in carbon taxes corresponds to a 1.24% decline in the response variable, whereas a 1% increase in carbon taxes is associated with a 2.72% increase in comparative advantage in environmental goods exports, which is twice as large. The study also uncovers evidence of an asymmetric relationship between low‐carbon technological innovation and comparative advantage in environmental goods exports. However, strong evidence of a long‐run asymmetric linkage between the energy transition and comparative advantage is not established. Nevertheless, it is noteworthy that a positive shift in energy transition is linked with a 0.32% rise in comparative advantage in environmental goods exports, whereas a negative shift in energy transition corresponds to a 0.11% decrease. The practical policy implications are also discussed.
The paradox of in/exclusion: Special education schools as transient spaces of marginality and relationality in contemporary China
Authors: Wu Jinting
Published: April 2024

While China embraces disability inclusion rhetorically, segregated special schools continue to proliferate in recent decades. What kind of space are special education schools? How do actors in such spaces negotiate stigma and marginality for a better future? This research pairs historical, policy and ethnographic research to examine special education schools as transient spaces of marginality and potentiality in China. It illustrates how inclusion needs to go beyond the entanglement with place towards relationality and being.