bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship Between Gene Polymorphism of Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C677T and Left Ventricular Hypertrophy in Chinese Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Wu Xie , Lin Jing , Xue Ning , Teng Jie , Wang Yaqiong , Li Yang , Xu Xunhui , Shen Ziyan , Ding Xiaoqiang , Fang Yi
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the gene polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T and left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH) in patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD).

Methods

A total of 763 Chinese patients with CKD undergoing genetic testing were included in the study. The association between the gene polymorphism of MTHFR C677T and echocardiographic parameters was analyzed through univariate and multivariate analyses.

Results

We found a remarkably positive association between MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism and LVH indexes, including interventricular septal thickness (F = 3.8; P = .022), left ventricular posterior wall thickness (F = 3.0; P = .052), left ventricular mass (F = 3.9; P = .022), and left ventricular mass index (F = 2.6; P = .075). After adjusting for the potential confounders linking the polymorphism,we found that the positive association between the polymorphism and LVH indexes still existed in patients with CKD in some multiple linear regression models (P <.05).

Conclusion

MTHFR C677T gene polymorphism may be a genetic susceptibility marker for the development of LVH in patients with CKD.
Bridging Themes: Short Protein Segments Found in Different Architectures
Authors: Kolodny Rachel , Nepomnyachiy Sergey , Tawfik Dan S , Ben-Tal Nir
Published: January 2021

The vast majority of theoretically possible polypeptide chains do not fold, let alone confer function. Hence, protein evolution from preexisting building blocks has clear potential advantages over ab initio emergence from random sequences. In support of this view, sequence similarities between different proteins is generally indicative of common ancestry, and we collectively refer to such homologous sequences as “themes.” At the domain level, sequence homology is routinely detected. However, short themes which are segments, or fragments of intact domains, are particularly interesting because they may provide hints about the emergence of domains, as opposed to divergence of preexisting domains, or their mixing-and-matching to form multi-domain proteins. Here we identified 525 representative short themes, comprising 20–80 residues that are unexpectedly shared between domains considered to have emerged independently. Among these “bridging themes” are ones shared between the most ancient domains, for example, Rossmann, P-loop NTPase, TIM-barrel, flavodoxin, and ferredoxin-like. We elaborate on several particularly interesting cases, where the bridging themes mediate ligand binding. Ligand binding may have contributed to the stability and the plasticity of these building blocks, and to their ability to invade preexisting domains or serve as starting points for completely new domains.
The Time Course of Compensatory Puffing With an Electronic Cigarette: Secondary Analysis of Real-World Puffing Data With High and Low Nicotine Concentration Under Fixed and Adjustable Power Settings
Authors: Cox Sharon , Goniewicz Maciej L , Kosmider Leon , McRobbie Hayden , Kimber Catherine , Dawkins Lynne
Published: January 2021

Introduction

In a secondary analysis of our published data demonstrating compensatory vaping behavior (increased puff number, puff duration, and device power) with e-cigarettes refilled with low versus high nicotine concentration e-liquid, here we examine 5-day time course over which compensatory behavior occurs under fixed and adjustable power settings.

Aims and Methods

Nineteen experienced vapers (37.90 ± 10.66 years, eight females) vaped ad libitum for 5 consecutive days under four counterbalanced conditions (ie, 20 days in total): (1) low nicotine (6 mg/mL)/fixed power (4.0 V/10 W); (2) low nicotine/adjustable power; (3) high nicotine (18 mg/mL)/fixed power; (4) high nicotine/adjustable power (at 1.6 Ohm). Puff number, puff duration, and power settings were recorded by the device. For each day, total daily puffing time was calculated by multiplying daily puff number by mean daily puff duration.

Results

A significant day × setting interaction revealed that whilst puffing compensation (daily puffing time) continued to increase over 5 days under fixed power, it remained stable when power settings were adjustable. Separate analysis for puff number and puff duration suggested that the puffing compensatory behavior was largely maintained via longer puff duration.

Conclusions

Under fixed power conditions (4.0 V/10 W), vapers appear to compensate for poor nicotine delivery by taking longer puffs and this compensatory puffing appears to be maintained over time.

Implications

Studies in smokers suggest that when switching to lower nicotine levels, compensation for poorer nicotine delivery is transient. Our novel findings suggest that vapers show a different pattern of compensation which is influenced by both nicotine strength and device power settings. When power is fixed (4.0 V; 10 W), compensation (via more intensive puffing) appears prolonged, persisting up to 5 days. Under adjustable settings when power is increased, puffing patterns remain stable over time. Implications of such compensatory behaviors for product safety and user satisfaction need further exploration.
High-performance work systems and the performance of public sector workplaces in Britain
Authors: Bryson Alex , White Michael
Published: January 2021

We assess the role played by high-performance work systems (HPWSs) in public sector management achieving cost reductions and efficiency savings, and in introducing ‘modernizing’ technical and operational changes. Using a nationally representative survey of public sector workplaces with 50 or more employees we find that increased use of HPWS was positively correlated with workplace financial performance ratings and the implementation of workplace organizational change, and negatively correlated with wage costs. We also find target setting (TS) practices are, as much as HPWS, significantly associated with workplace outcomes. First difference estimates for the financial rating and workplace change outcomes qualitatively support the cross-section findings in these respects. We conclude that both HPWS and TS are important management technologies for managers pursuing government objectives in the public sector.
Pancytopenia and Profound Neutropenia as a Sequela of Severe SARS-CoV-2 Infection (COVID-19) With Concern for Bone Marrow Involvement
Authors: Hernandez Jarelys M , Quarles Ross , Lakshmi Seetha , Casanas Beata , Eatrides Jennifer , McCoy Erin , Somboonwit Charurut
Published: January 2021

Pancytopenia and neutropenia due to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) are rare. Here we report a case of neutropenia as a sequela of COVID-19 with concern for bone marrow infiltration. The patient was successfully treated with granulocyte colony-stimulating factor.
Lung organoids and other preclinical models of pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: Oglesby I K , Schweikert A , Fox B , Redmond C , Donnelly S C , Hurley K
Published: January 2021

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive fatal disease affecting over 100 000 people in Europe with an increasing incidence. Available treatments offer only slowing of disease progression and are poorly tolerated by patients leading to cessation of therapy. Lung transplant remains the only cure. Therefore, alternative treatments are urgently required. The pathology of IPF is complex and poorly understood and thus creates a major obstacle to the discovery of novel treatments. Additionally, preclinical assessment of new treatments currently relies upon animal models where disparities with human lung biology often hamper drug development. At a cellular level, IPF is characterized by persistent and abnormal deposition of extracellular matrix by fibroblasts and alveolar epithelial cell injury which is seen as a key event in initiation of disease progression. In-depth investigation of the role of alveolar epithelial cells in health and disease has been impeded due to difficulties in primary cell isolation and culture ex vivo. Novel strategies employing patient-derived induced pluripotent stem cells engineered to produce type 2 alveolar epithelial cells (iAEC2) cultured as three-dimensional organoids have the potential to overcome these hurdles and inform new effective precision treatments for IPF leading to improved survival and quality of life for patients worldwide.
Combination rituximab and intravenous immunoglobulin for treatment of refractory vasculitic neuropathy: a case series
Authors: Lima Kaitlin , Tavee Jinny , Dua Anisha
Published: January 2021

Objective

Limited evidence exists to guide treatment of refractory vasculitic neuropathy. While rituximab (RTX) and IVIG have both been proposed as individual treatment options for these patients, combination therapy has never been reported.

Methods

Written informed consent was obtained from three patients with refractory vasculitic neuropathy who were treated with combination RTX and IVIG. Their electronic medical records were reviewed and clinical and functional outcomes were reported.

Results

Two male patients with non-systemic vasculitic neuropathy and one male patient with granulomatosis with polyangiitis were treated with combination RTX and IVIG therapy. All three patients demonstrated clinical improvement with at least partial functional recovery and a reduction in corticosteroid dose. This combination was generally well tolerated.

Conclusions

Combination RTX and IVIG therapy may be a safe and effective treatment option for patients with refractory vasculitic neuropathy. Further studies are needed to better characterize the risks and benefits of this combination.
Vibrational resonance in a driven two-level quantum system, linear and nonlinear response
Authors: Paul Shibashis , Shankar Ray Deb
Published: January 2021

We consider a two-level quantum system interacting with two classical time-periodic electromagnetic fields. The frequency of one of the fields far exceeds that of the other. The effect of the high-frequency field can be averaged out of the dynamics to realize an effective transition frequency of the field-dressed two-level system. We examine the linear response, second harmonic response and Stokes and anti-Stokes Raman response of the dressed two-level system, to the weak frequency field. The vibrational resonance enhancement in each case is demonstrated for optimal strength of the high-frequency field. Our theoretical scheme is corroborated by full numerical simulation of the two-level, two-field dynamics governed by loss-free Bloch equations. We suggest that quantum optics can offer an interesting arena for the study of the vibrational resonance.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Vibrational and stochastic resonance in driven nonlinear systems (part 1)’.
Delay-induced resonance suppresses damping-induced unpredictability
Authors: Coccolo M. , Cantisán J. , Seoane J. M. , Rajasekar S. , Sanjuán M. A. F.
Published: January 2021

Combined effects of the damping and forcing in the underdamped time-delayed Duffing oscillator are considered in this paper. We analyse the generation of a certain damping-induced unpredictability due to the gradual suppression of interwell oscillations. We find the minimal amount of the forcing amplitude and the right forcing frequency to revert the effect of the dissipation, so that the interwell oscillations can be restored, for different time delay values. This is achieved by using the delay-induced resonance, in which the time delay replaces one of the two periodic forcings present in the vibrational resonance. A discussion in terms of the time delay of the critical values of the forcing for which the delay-induced resonance can tame the dissipation effect is finally carried out.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Vibrational and stochastic resonance in driven nonlinear systems (part 1)’.
Adaptive stochastic resonance in bistable system driven by noisy NLFM signal: phenomenon and application
Authors: Yang Chen , Yang Jianhua , Zhou Dengji , Zhang Shuai , Litak Grzegorz
Published: January 2021

The stochastic resonance (SR) in a bistable system driven by nonlinear frequency modulation (NLFM) signal and strong noise is studied. Combined with empirical mode decomposition (EMD) and piecewise idea, an adaptive piecewise re-scaled SR method based on the optimal intrinsic mode function (IMF), is proposed to enhance the weak NLFM signal. At first, considering the advantages of EMD for dealing with non-stationary signals, the segmented NLFM signal is processed by EMD. Meanwhile, the cross-correlation coefficient is used as the measure to select the optimal IMF that contains the NLFM signal feature. Then, the spectral amplification gain indicator is proposed to realize the adaptive SR of the optimal IMF of each sub-segment signal and reconstruct the enhanced NLFM signal. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed method is highlighted with the analysis of the short-time Fourier transform spectrum of the simulation results. As an application example, the proposed method is verified adaptability in bearing fault diagnosis under the speed-varying condition that represents a typical and complicated NLFM signal in mechanical engineering. The research provides a new way for the enhancement of weak non-stationary signals.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Vibrational and stochastic resonance in driven nonlinear systems (part 1)’.
Evolution of the cytochrome-bdtype oxygen reductase superfamily and the function of cydAA’ in Archaea
Authors: Murali Ranjani , Gennis Robert B. , Hemp James
Published: January 2021

Cytochromebd-type oxygen reductases (cytbd) belong to one of three enzyme superfamilies that catalyze oxygen reduction to water. They are widely distributed in Bacteria and Archaea, but the full extent of their biochemical diversity is unknown. Here we used phylogenomics to identify 3 families and several subfamilies within the cytbd superfamily. The core architecture shared by all members of the superfamily consists of four transmembrane helices that bind two active site hemes, which are responsible for oxygen reduction. While previously characterized cytochromebd-type oxygen reductases use quinol as an electron donor to reduce oxygen, sequence analysis shows that only one of the identified families has a conserved quinol binding site. The other families are missing this feature, suggesting that they use an alternative electron donor. Multiple gene duplication events were identified within the superfamily, resulting in significant evolutionary and structural diversity. The CydAA’ cytbd, found exclusively in Archaea, is formed by the co-association of two superfamily paralogs. We heterologously expressed CydAA’ fromCaldivirga maquilingensisand demonstrated that it performs oxygen reduction with quinol as an electron donor. Strikingly, CydAA’ is the first isoform of cytbd containing onlyb-type hemes shown to be active when isolated, demonstrating that oxygen reductase activity in this superfamily is not dependent on hemed.
Towards a mathematical understanding of colonization resistance in multispecies microbial communities
Authors: Gjini Erida , Madec Sten
Published: January 2021

Microbial community composition and dynamics are key to health and disease. Explaining the forces generating and shaping diversity in the microbial consortia making up our body’s defenses is a major aim of current research in microbiology. For this, tractable models are needed, that bridge the gap between observations of patterns and underlying mechanisms. While most microbial dynamics models are based on the Lotka-Volterra framework, we still do not have an analytic quantity for colonization resistance, by which a microbial system’s fitness as a whole can be understood. Here, inspired by an epidemiological perspective, we propose a rather general modeling framework whereby colonization resistance can be clearly mathematically defined and studied. In our model,Nsimilar species interact with each other through a co-colonization interaction network encompassing pairwise competition and cooperation, abstractly mirroring how organisms effectively modify their micro-scale environment in relation to others. This formulation relies on a generic notion of shared resources between members of a consortium, yielding explicit frequency-dependent dynamics amongNspecies, in the form of a replicator equation, and offering a precise definition of colonization resistance. We demonstrate that colonization resistance arises and evolves naturally in a multispecies system as a collective quadratic term in a replicator equation, describing dynamic mean invasion fitness. Each pairwise invasion growth rate between two ecological partners,, is derived explicitly from species asymmetries and mean traits. This makes the systemic colonization resistancealso an emergent function of global mean-field parameters and trait variation architecture, weighted by the evolving relative abundances among species. In particular, if the underlying invasion fitness matrix Λ displaysspecies-specific‘invasiveness’ or ‘invasibility’ structure, colonization resistance will be insensitive to mean micro-scale cooperation or competition. However, in general, colonization resistance depends on and may undergo critical transitions with changes in mean ‘environment’, e.g. cooperation and growth level in a community. We illustrate several key links between our proposed measure of colonization resistance and invader success, including sensitivity to timing, and to the intrinsic pairwise invasion architecture of the resident community. Our simulations reveal thatsymmetricandinvader-drivenmutual invasion among resident species tend to maximize systemic colonization resistance to outsiders, when compared toresident-driven, anti-symmetric, almost anti-symmetricandrandomΛ structures. We contend this modeling approach is a powerful new avenue to study, test and validate interaction networks and invasion topologies in diverse microbial consortia, and quantify analytically their role in colonization resistance, system function, and invasibility.
Digital supply chain to unlock new agility: a TISM approach
Authors: Choudhury Akanksha , Behl Abhishek , Sheorey Pratima Amol , Pal Abhinav
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Traditional supply chain arrangements have failed to keep up with escalating customer demands and breakthrough innovations. The way forward is a flexible yet innovative network that leverages ecosystem partners and digital tools to unlock new agility. The paper aims at identifying and analyzing numerous critical success factors (CSFs) that may improve the efficiency of a digital supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Twelve CSFs are identified in this paper through an extensive literature survey. Expert opinion has been considered and the hierarchical structure built using total interpretative structural modeling (TISM) which highlights the interdependencies between these CSFs. Cross-impact matrix multiplication (MICMAC) is used to determine the driving and dependence power of each factor.

Findings

This study identified 12 CSFs through an extensive literature survey. The ISM model resulted in six different levels beginning from redesign organization at the bottom of the structure. The TISM model explained why redesigning the organization is pivotal to bringing about novel agility in the supply chain. MICMAC analysis confirmed that the following enhanced the success of a digital supply chain: Sales and Operation Planning Strategies, Strategic Sourcing Techniques, Smart Manufacturing Processes and Warehouse Management.

Research limitations/implications

Various other components contributing to the 12 CSFs identified in this paper may be discovered and detailed in future research. Additionally, further research is required to expand the existing technology-based services structural model to a more empirical form.

Practical implications

This study offers a comprehensive but not exhaustive list of CSFs essential to digital supply chain growth. It will enable market experts and leaders to concentrate on key factors leading to tactical decisions and maximum value for firms.

Originality/value

The paper seeks to add to the body of knowledge on real digitally-led supply chain transformation, which is still in its early stages. This study is one of the first, if not the first, to examine success factors critical to the improvement of the performance of the supply chain. It lays the foundation for further research in this field.
Family incivility, burnout and job satisfaction: examining the mediation effect
Authors: Paul V Maria Tresita , Aboobaker Nimitha , N Uma Devi
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Drawing from the work-home resources model and the conservation of resources theory, this study examines the potential of family incivility in instigating burnout and reduced job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed structured questionnaires to collect data from a sample of 290 doctors working in tertiary care hospitals across India. Measurement modeling was done using IBM AMOS 23.0 and PROCESS macro was employed for hypothesis testing.

Findings

The study revealed that family incivility has a positive spillover effect on burnout, subsequently leading to lowered levels of job satisfaction. Furthermore, burnout mediated the aforementioned relationship.

Research limitations/implications

This study is cross-sectional, and a longitudinal study will help test more rigorously; the causal relationships between the focal variables are recommended. Self-report data pose limitations concerning common method bias. Data collected from different occupations and cultures would help with further generalizability of the results.

Practical implications

This study establishes that incivility within the family can negatively affect various vital work outcomes. Accordingly, it is recommended for organizations to support employees to achieve improved work-family integration. Further research should explore various coping strategies that will help with mitigating these spillover effects.

Social implications

This study offers a new perspective on the negative effect of family interactions on work-domain outcomes.

Originality/value

The paper extends the scholarly literature on stress and work-family interface by demonstrating that family incivility has spillover effects. This is the pioneering study that examines family incivility as a home demand causing long-term severe damages at work.
Facing a global crisis - how sustainable business models helped firms overcome COVID
Authors: Mattera Marina , Soto Gonzalez Federico , Alba Ruiz-Morales Carmen , Gava Luana
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyse how implementation of corporate social responsibility (CSR) policies following United Nations’ Global Compact (UNGC) guidelines can contribute to firm’s performance during a global crisis, such as the case of COVID-19. Based on the triple bottom line theoretical framework, this work explores the relation between the creation of value and sustainable business models with long-term strategies and strong policy commitments, and their performance in the stock market years later during a crisis. By doing so, new insights on strategic management to create value and consolidate sustainable business models are provided.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study analyses firms within the context of the European Union, considering the involvement of the region in achieving sustainable development. In particular, the long-term impact in the usage of the UNGC management model and the firm's sustainability performance based on the results during COVID-19 crisis. To achieve this goal, energy firms operating in Spain and subscribing to UNGC were evaluated, specifically those publicly listed in the IBEX35, benchmark index of Spain's Stock Market Interconnection System. In addition, firms were also considered regarding the strong impact within their industries not only nationally but also worldwide.

Findings

Findings show long-term CSR strategies and a strong commitment to sustainable development contribute to firm’s overcoming periods of economic crisis. In addition, considering the environmental impact of the firms’ actions, transition to sustainable business and widening portfolio in the case of energy firms proved to have a positive impact in overcoming a hard context such as COVID-19. The virtuous cycle can be created by honouring the social contract, yet the tools and management models shall be further tailored to ensure an effective win-win situation.

Originality/value

This study evaluates a company's strategic involvement in sustainability, considering the UNGC 10 principles and SDG and the effects of these strategies in the long-term. Specifically, the role of UNGC management model is evaluated in designing effective policies that can help firms better overcome a context of crisis such as COVID-19. Consequently, researchers studying business strategy can incorporate the findings in strategic planning. Practitioners can learn the implications of CSR strategic planning in the long-term. Moreover, work illustrates corporate results in sustainability matters after the first decade of the UNGC management model and the impact of a crisis context.
Does board gender enhance Palestinian firm performance? The moderating role of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Saleh Mohammed W.A. , Zaid Mohammad A.A. , Shurafa Rabee , Maigoshi Zaharaddeen Salisu , Mansour Marwan , Zaid Ahmed
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine how the salient board gender diversity among board directors affects firm performance both directly and indirectly, through the role of corporate social responsibility (CSR) in listed firms on the Palestine Stock Exchange over the period 2010–2017.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on panel data of 384 observations from all firms listed on the Palestine Security Exchange during the period from 2010 to 2017, this study uses panel data regression to examine the effect of the predictors on firm performance. In addition, to mitigate the endogeneity issue, the analysis was repeated by using one-step generalized method of moments.

Findings

The results show that board gender diversity has a positive and insignificant influence on firm performance. However, under the moderating effect of CSR, the finding turns from positive insignificant to positive significant.

Originality/value

The study is timely given that gender diversity plays pivotal roles in determining the performance in terms of monitoring and controlling and further willing to engage in social responsibility. The prior research in Palestine has never investigated the effect of board gender diversity. As such, Palestine has not established a legal quota of minimum female representation on boards, and because of it, the country has weak women’s representation among firms. It, therefore, becomes a necessity to examine the influence of board gender diversity on the financial performance of listed firms in Palestine. Besides, the mixed result in previous literature on the board gender diversity and firm performance indicates that there is an indirect effect that needs alternative explanations.
Should spokes-characters be dynamic? The interaction effects of spokes-character dynamism and brand personality on consumers’ evaluation
Authors: Zhang Ning , Yu Liqin , Tsang Alex S.L. , Zhou Nan
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the interaction effects of spokes-character dynamism (high vs low) and brand personality (sincere vs competent) on consumers’ evaluation and the mediating role of processing fluency.

Design/methodology/approach

Two experiments were conducted to test the hypotheses. Study 1 establishes the interaction effect between evoked spokes-character dynamism and brand personality on brand trust and examines the mediating role of processing fluency. By introducing a control group and using purchase intention as the dependent variable, Study 2 further extends the results of Study 1.

Findings

The results of Studies 1 and 2 show that for sincere brands, spokes-characters with high dynamic imagery contribute to significantly higher consumer evaluation than the control group and the group of spokes-characters with low dynamic imagery. However, for competent brands, spokes-characters with low dynamic imagery contribute to significantly higher consumer evaluation than the control group and the group of spokes-characters with high dynamic imagery. In addition, processing fluency mediates the interaction effect between evoked spokes-character dynamism and brand personality on consumers’ evaluation.

Research limitations/implications

The studies considered only one method, “frozen motion,” to evoke perceived movement. Further studies using other methods are needed to allow for generalization.

Practical implications

The discerning use of dynamic imagery in spokes-character design involving advertisements may aid marketers in maximizing spokes-characters’ effect on consumers’ evaluation.

Originality/value

The perceived movement of spokes-characters is integrated into the cognition of brand personality. Marketers should take into account how the match between spokes-character dynamism and brand personality may influence consumers’ evaluation of the brand.
Analysis of human behavior in case of fire inside a high-rise building: effect of risk perception and Individual's location
Authors: Mousavi Seyed Yaser , Kariminia Shahab
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The main purpose of this research is to achieve the evacuation strategy of people in high-rise office buildings. This purpose is achieved by identifying the individuals' behaviors during a fire accident and the relationship between these behaviors and their risk perception.

Design/methodology/approach

The method of this study is mixed-methods type. The first stage was carried out using the qualitative method and descriptive phenomenology and the analyses were done using the Colaizzi method, and the second stage was carried out using the quantitative method of field descriptive survey type whose analyses were conducted through SPSS software.

Findings

The results reveal that the individuals attempting evacuation from the upper floors above the fire level were mostly injured and the ones who remained in the building and got help from fire fighters were rescued. At the end, the study goes on to suggest the stay-in-place approach with regards to the behaviors formed in individuals, closed plan of architectural design, lack of suitable fire extinguishers as well as inappropriate individual trainings.

Research limitations/implications

Lack of similar research in the field of fire in Iran caused bottlenecks such as lack of cooperation of relevant organizations in the path of the research. Another factor that limited the present research was the determination of people trapped in fire. In this case, those who were present in the incident had to be chosen and the questionnaire was completed based on their opinions. This limited the research for reasons such as the relocation of some people from buildings or their death.

Practical implications

The practical results of this research can be used in reviewing the rules and regulations of high-rise building fire code. By properly compiling the regulations of high-rise building codes based on this research, human injuries in fire hazards can be greatly prevented. Due to the collapse of the Plasco building in Iran and the creation of inappropriate memories in the minds of people of high-rise buildings, with the construction of buildings based on the rules and regulations in accordance with the fire code, the construction market as well as the sale and purchase of such buildings will flourish and numerous financial and job turnovers are created in the field of this type of buildings.

Originality/value

This study is innovative in determining appropriate evacuation strategy that are related to the individuals' risk perception in high-rise buildings, as well as achieving results to review the rules and regulations of high-rise office buildings based on the high-rise building fire code.
Influences of artificial intelligence (AI) awareness on career competency and job burnout
Authors: Kong Haiyan , Yuan Yue , Baruch Yehuda , Bu Naipeng , Jiang Xinyu , Wang Kangping
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The prevalence of artificial intelligence (AI) has considerably affected management and society. This paper aims to explore its potential impact on hospitality industry employees, bringing enlightenment to both employees and managers.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from a survey of 432 employees who worked in full-service hotels in China. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Results presented a positive relationship between AI awareness and job burnout. No significant direct relationship was found between AI awareness and career competencies. Organizational commitment mediated the relationship between AI awareness and career competencies, as well as the relationship between AI awareness and job burnout.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to human resource management in the hospitality industry to theoretical and practical aspects. Theoretically, it enriched both career theory and fit theory. Practically, this study reminds managers to pay attention to the adverse effect of AI on human capital. It also enlightens the manager to think of the positive effects that AI may bring. Managers should provide proper support to overcome AI’s threat to human resources.

Practical implications

Practically, this study reminds managers to pay attention to the adverse effect of AI on human capital. It also enlightens the manager to think of the positive effects that AI may bring. Managers should provide proper support to overcome AI’s threat to human resources.

Originality/value

The study aims to analyze the impact of AI from a career perspective. It provided theoretical support and evidence for hotel managers for the effects of AI awareness on hotel employees. The study conveys a potential topic of concern that the hospitality industry may face in the future.
Are mom-and-pop and professional hosts actually competing against hotels?
Authors: Sainaghi Ruggero , Baggio Rodolfo
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the question of whether commercial, peer-to-peer accommodation platforms (Airbnb, in particular) and hotels are in fierce competition with each other with the possible presence of substitution threats, and compares the time series of the occupancy values across two supplier types.

Design/methodology/approach

The cities of Milan and Rome are used as case studies for this analysis. To assess the extent of synchronization, the series of Airbnb and hotels are transformed into a series of symbols that render their rhythmic behavior, and a mutual information metric is used to measure the effect.

Findings

The results show that Airbnb hosts and hotels have different seasonal patterns. The diverse occupancy trends support the absence of direct competition between Airbnb and hotels. The findings are consistent in the two analyzed cities (Milan and Rome). Interestingly, there are higher similarities between seasonal occupancy series of Airbnb listings in Milan and Rome, on one side, and hotels in Milan and Rome, on the other, than between Airbnb and hotels in the same city.

Research limitations/implications

The findings show a progressive de-synchronization (within mutual information) among the five groups of Airbnb hosts triggered by the rising professionalization degree. This result suggests the existence of a partial different business model for multi-listing hosts.

Practical implications

The study illustrates an absence of any substitution threat between Airbnb and hotels in both cities. This could have important consequences, especially for the pricing and revenue management policy. In fact, the higher the substitution threat, the higher the attention that Airbnb entrepreneurs should pay to the pricing strategy implemented by hotels, and vice versa.

Originality/value

This study sheds new light on the competition threat between Airbnb and hotels. In this study, hotels and Airbnb hosts appear as two very separate markets.
A leadership maturity model for implementing Six Sigma in academic institutions – using case studies to build theory
Authors: Anthony Stephen Graham , Antony Jiju
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a maturity model for academic leadership teams to benchmark their ability to deliver a culture of continuous improvement through the use of Lean Six Sigma. Teams will also be able to use this model to develop strategic action plans to improve the culture of continuous improvement within their institution. In addition, this paper explains the journey the authors have taken in creating this model by using a mixture of literature review, questionnaires and case studies to build the model and the use of test cases to refine and improve the model.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a structured approach, focussing first on assessing the state of UK Lean Six Sigma (LSS) implementation and the, through the use of the case study method, the authors have designed a maturity model based on the classic capability maturity matrix approach. The final model has then been tested to refine the model into an improved version.

Findings

Key findings from interviewing the academic institutions that make up this paper highlight the current best practice in the UK and how far they still have to travel to become truly continuous improving organisations.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is limited to only focussing on UK institutions in the design and development of the maturity model. Future research should benchmark UK institutions more formally with international universities from North America and the Far East.

Practical implications

This paper present a final maturity model which can be used by academic leadership teams to both map their maturity at delivering continuous improvement projects and to act as an action plan to move the culture towards a quality-based, continuously improving institution.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first such model to be produced focussing on the leadership and sustainability of deploying LSS in academic institutions.
Islamic stock-sukuk indexes' correlations: does financial uncertainty matter?
Authors: Alahouel Fatma , Loukil Nadia
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This study examines co-movements between global Islamic index and heterogeneous rated/maturity sukuk. It tests the impact of financial uncertainty on these movements.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, we conduct a bivariate wavelet analysis to assess the co-movements between stocks and sukuk indexes. Secondly, we use General dynamic factor model and stochastic volatility to construct financial uncertainty index from Islamic stock indexes. Finally, we run regression analysis to determine the impact of uncertainty on the obtained correlations.

Findings

Our results suggest the absence of flight to quality phenomenon since correlations are positive especially at a short investment horizon. There is evidence of contagion phenomena across assets. Financial uncertainty may be considered as a determinant of stock-sukuk co-movements. Our results show that a rise in financial uncertainty induces correlation to move in the opposite direction in the short term, (exception for correlation with AA-Rated sukuk). However, the sign of stock market uncertainty becomes positive in the long term, which leads sukuk and stocks to move in the same direction (exception for 1–3 Year and AA Rated sukuk).

Practical implications

Investors may combine sukuk with 1–3 Year maturity and AA Rated when considering long holding periods. Further, all sukuk categories provide diversification benefit in time high financial uncertainty expectation for AA Rated sukuk when considering short holding periods.

Originality/value

To the best of our best knowledge, our study is the first investigation of the impact of financial uncertainty on Stock-sukuk co-movements and provides recommendation considering sukuk with different characteristics.
Understanding organisations for a post-growth era: contributions from an epistemic analysis
Authors: Ramos-Mejía Mónica , Dueñas-Ocampo Sebastián , Gomati de la Vega Isabella
Published: January 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to uncover the ways in which companies either reproduce or challenge the growth-based roots of the social imaginary, in order to inform the degrowth debate at the firm level.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers an epistemic analysis of the ways companies organise, revealing underlying conceptions of organisations' identities and their corresponding ways of organising.

Findings

The epistemic analysis derives four conceptual findings allowing the authors to suggest ways of organising in a socio-environmental future not driven by economic growth. The paper suggests new research avenues to study alternative worldviews in organisations.

Originality/value

This paper creatively contributes to the discussion about alternatives to the current unsustainable economy with a special focus on the micro level, where businesses act as a vital driving force for economic growth.
Comparing the day temperature and holiday effects on retail sales of alcoholic beverages – a time-series analysis
Authors: Hirche Martin , Haensch Juliane , Lockshin Larry
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Little research on the influence of external factors, such as weather and holiday periods, on retail sales on alcoholic beverages is available. This study aims to investigate how weekly retail sales of different alcoholic beverages vary in association with daily maximum temperatures and annual federal holidays across selected US counties in the years 2013 to 2015. The research provides information, which can contribute to better sales forecasts.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data of weekly retail sales (volume) of alcoholic beverages from 37,346 stores in 651 counties in the USA are analysed. The data cover on average 21% of all existing US counties and 12% of the total US off-trade retail sales of alcoholic beverages in the period studied (Euromonitor, 2017). Additional data of federal holidays and meteorological data are collated for each county in the sample. Seasonal autoregressive integrated moving average models with exogenous regressors (SARIMAX) are applied to develop forecasting models and to investigate possible relationships and effects.

Findings

The results indicate that off-trade retail sales of beer, liquor, red and white wine are temperature sensitive throughout the year, while contrary to expectations rosé, sparkling and other wines are not. Sales sensitivities to temperature also differ by geography. In the warmest regions, liquor and white wine sales do not respond to temperature changes, as opposed to the coolest regions, where they are responsive. Public holidays, particularly Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year holidays, represent a constant influencing factor on short-term sales increases for all investigated alcoholic beverage categories.

Originality/value

This is the first large-scale study of weather and holiday-related sales variations over time, across geographies and different alcoholic beverage categories. Seasonal and non-seasonal short-term sales variations are important for retailers and manufacturers alike. Accounting for expected changes in demand accommodates efficiencies along the supply chain and has implications for retail management, as well as adjusting marketing efforts in competing categories.
CFD-based calculation method of convective heat transfer coefficient of spiral bevel gear in intermediate gearbox under splash lubrication
Authors: Lu Fengxia , Wang Meng , Liu Weizhen , Bao Heyun , Zhu Rupeng
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a numerical method to calculate the convective heat transfer coefficient of spiral bevel gears under the condition of splash lubrication and to reveal the lubrication and temperature characteristics between the gears and the oil-air two-phase flow.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on computational fluid dynamics, the multiple reference frames (MRF) method was used to simulate the rotational characteristics of gears and the motions of their surrounding fluid. The lubrication and temperature characteristics of gears were studied by combining the MRF method with the volume of the fluid multiphase flow model.

Findings

The convective heat transfer coefficient can be improved by increasing the rotational speed and the oil immersion depth. Moreover, the temperature of the tooth surface having a large convective heat transfer coefficient is also found to be low. A large convection heat transfer coefficient could lead to a good cooling effect.

Originality/value

This method can be used to obtain the convective heat transfer coefficient values at different meshing positions, different radii and different tooth surface positions. It also can provide research methods for improving the cooling effect of gears under the condition of splash lubrication.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-07-2020-0233/
Has financial inclusion made the financial sector riskier?
Authors: Ozili Peterson Kitakogelu
Published: January 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine whether high levels of financial inclusion is associated with greater financial risk.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses regression methodology to estimate the effect of financial inclusion on financial risk.

Findings

The findings reveal that higher account ownership is associated with greater financial risk through high non-performing loans and high-cost inefficiency in the financial sector of developed countries, advanced countries and transition economies. Increased use of debit cards, credit cards and digital finance products reduced risk in the financial sector of advanced countries and developed countries but not for transition economies and developing countries. The findings also show that the combined use of digital finance products with increased formal account ownership improves financial sector efficiency in developing countries while the combined use of credit cards with increased formal account ownership reduces insolvency risk and improves financial sector efficiency in developing countries.

Research limitations/implications

The paper offers several implications for policy and financial regulation. It suggests policies that would reduce the financial risk that financial inclusion poses to the financial sector.

Originality/value

The recent interest in financial inclusion and the unintended consequences of policy-driven financial inclusion in some parts of the world is raising concern about the risks that financial inclusion may introduce to the formal financial sector. Little is known about the risks that financial inclusion may pose to the financial sector.