bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obesity, Ethnicity, and Covid-19 Mortality: A population-based cohort study of 12.6 Million Adults in England
Authors: Yates Thomas , Summerfield Annabel , Razieh Cameron , Banerjee Amitava , Chudasama Yogini , Davies Melanie J , Gillies Clare , Islam Nazrul , Lawson Claire , Mirkes Evgeny , Zaccardi Francesco , Khunti Kamlesh , Nafilyan Vahé
Published: July 2021

Importance

Obesity and ethnicity are well characterised risk factors for severe COVID-19 outcomes, but the differential effects of obesity on COVID-19 outcomes by race/ethnicity has not been examined robustly in the general population.

Objective

To investigate the association between body mass index (BMI) and COVID-19 mortality across different ethnic groups.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This is a retrospective cohort study using linked national Census, electronic health records and mortality data for English adults aged 40 years or older who were alive at the start of pandemic (24thJanuary 2020).

Exposures

BMI obtained from electronic health records. Self-reported ethnicity (white, black, South Asian, other) was the effect-modifying variable.

Main Outcomes and Measures

COVID-19 related death identified by ICD-10 codes U07.1 or U07.2 mentioned on the death certificate from 24thJanuary 2020 until December 28th2020.

Results

The analysis included white (n = 11,074,708; mean age 61.9 [±13.4] years; 54% women), black (n = 416,542; 56.4 [±11.7] years; 57% women), South Asian (621,691; 55.7 [±12.4] years; 51% women) and other (n = 478,196; 55.3 [±11.6] years; 55% women) ethnicities with linked BMI data. The association between BMI and COVID-19 mortality was stronger in ethnic minority groups. Compared to a BMI of 22.5 kg/m2in white ethnicities, the adjusted HR for COVID-19 mortality at a BMI of 30 kg/m2in white, black, South Asian and other ethnicities was 0.95 (95% CI: 0.87-1.03), 1.72 (1.52-1.94), 2.00 (1.78-2.25) and 1.39 (1.21-1.61), respectively. The estimated risk of COVID-19 mortality at a BMI of 40 kg/m2in white ethnicities (HR = 1.73) was equivalent to the risk observed at a BMI of 30.1 kg/m2, 27.0 kg/m2, and 32.2 kg/m2in black, South Asian and other ethnic groups, respectively.

Conclusions

This population-based study using linked Census and electronic health care records demonstrates that the risk of COVID-19 mortality associated with obesity is greater in ethnic minority groups compared to white populations.

Question

Does the association between BMI and COVID-19 mortality vary by ethnicity?

Findings

In this study of 12.6 million adults, BMI was associated with COVID-19 in all ethnicities, but with stronger associations in ethnic minority populations such that the risk of COVID-19 mortality for a BMI of 40 kg/m2in white ethnicities was observed at a BMI of 30.1 kg/m2, 27.0 kg/m2, and 32.2 kg/m2in black, South Asian and other ethnicities, respectively.

Meaning

BMI is a stronger risk factor for COVID-19 mortality in ethnic minorities. Obesity management is therefore a priority in these populations.
Age-related Cellular and Microstructural Changes in the Rotator Cuff Enthesis
Authors: Long Zeling , Nakagawa Koichi , Wang Zhanwen , Amadio Peter C. , Zhao Chunfeng , Gingery Anne
Published: July 2021

Rotator cuff injuries increase with age. The enthesis is the most frequent site of rotator cuff injury and degeneration. Understanding age-related changes of the enthesis are essential to determine the mechanism of rotator cuff injuries, degeneration, and to guide mechanistically driven therapies. In this study, we explored age-related cellular changes of the rotator cuff enthesis in young, mature, and aged rats. Here we found that the aged enthesis is typified by an increased mineralized zone and decreased non-mineralized zone. Proliferation, migration, and colony forming potential of rotator cuff derived cells (RCECs) was attenuated with aging. The tenogenic and chondrogenic potential were significantly reduced, while the osteogenic potential increased in aged RCECs. The adipogenic potential increased in RCECs with age. This study explores the cellular differences found between young, mature, and aged rotator cuff enthesis cells and provides a basis for further delineation of mechanisms and potential therapeutics for rotator cuff injuries.
Roles of proteins containing immunoglobulin-like domains in the conjugation of bacterial plasmids
Authors: Hüttener Mário , Hergueta Jon , Bernabeu Manuel , Prieto Alejandro , Aznar Sonia , Merino Susana , Tomás Joan , Juárez Antonio
Published: July 2021

Horizontal transfer of bacterial plasmids generates genetic variability and contributes to the dissemination of the genes that enable bacterial cells to develop antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Several aspects of the conjugative process have long been known, namely, those related to the proteins that participate in the establishment of cell-to-cell contact and to the enzymatic processes associated with the processing of plasmid DNA and its transfer to the recipient cell. In this work, we describe the role of newly identified proteins that influence the conjugation of several plasmids. Genes encoding high-molecular-weight proteins that contain one or several immunoglobulin-like domains (Big) are located in the transfer regions of several plasmids that usually harbor AMR determinants. These Big proteins are exported to the external medium and target two extracellular organelles: the flagella and the conjugative pili. The plasmid-encoded Big proteins facilitate conjugation by reducing cell motility and facilitating cell-to-cell contact by binding both to the flagella and to the conjugative pilus. They use the same export machinery as that used by the conjugative pilus components. In the examples characterized in this paper, these proteins influence conjugation at environmental temperatures (i.e., 25°C). This suggests that they may play relevant roles in the dissemination of plasmids in natural environments. Taking into account that they interact with outer surface organelles, they could be targeted to control the dissemination of different bacterial plasmids carrying AMR determinants.
Transcriptional Regulatory Features associated with Coccidioides immitis phase transition
Authors: Duttke Sascha , Beyhan Sinem , Singh Rajendra , Neal Sonya , Viriyakosol Suganya , Fierer Joshua , Kirkland Theo N , Stajich Jason E , Benner Christopher , Carlin Aaron F.
Published: July 2021

Coccidioidomycosis (Valley Fever) is an emerging endemic fungal infection with a rising incidence and an expanding geographic range. It is caused by Coccidiodes, which are thermally dimorphic fungi that grow as mycelia in soil but transition in the lung to form pathogenic spherules. The regulatory mechanisms underlying this transition are not understood. Exploiting capped small (cs)RNA-seq, which identifies actively initiated stable and unstable transcripts and thereby detects acute changes in gene regulation with remarkable sensitivity, here we report the changes in architectural organization and key sequence features underlying phase transition of this highly pathogenic fungus. Spherule transition was accompanied by large-scale transcriptional reprogramming, functional changes in transcript isoforms, and a massive increase in promoter-distal transcription of ncRNAs. Analysis of spherule-activated regulatory elements revealed a motif predicted to recruit a WOPR family transcription factor, which are known regulators of virulence in other fungi. We identify CIMG_02671 as a C. immitis WOPR homologue and show that it activates transcription in a WOPR motif-dependent manner, suggesting it is an important regulator of pathogenic phase transition. Collectively, this also highlights csRNA-seq as a powerful means to identify transcriptional mechanisms that control pathogenesis.
Fructose appetition in “taste-blind” P2X2/P2X3 double knockout mice
Authors: Sclafani Anthony , Ackroff Karen
Published: July 2021

Inbred mouse strains differ in their postoral appetite stimulating response (appetition) to glucose and fructose. For example, C57BL/6J (B6) and FVB strains learn strong preferences for a flavor (CS+, e.g., cherry) paired with intragastric (IG) glucose infusions, but only FVB mice learned to prefer a CS+ paired with IG fructose infusions. Consistent with these findings, “tasteless” B6 knockout (KO) mice missing the taste signaling protein TRPM5 learn strong preferences for a CS+ added to glucose solution as well as for unflavored glucose but weak or no preferences for a fructose-paired CS+ or unflavored fructose. The present experiment reports that “tasteless” P2X2/P2X3 double-knockout (P2X2/3 DKO) mice, unlike TRPM5 KO mice, learned strong preferences for a CS+ mixed with fructose as well as for unflavored fructose. Whether differences in genetic backgrounds or other factors account for the fructose appetition displayed by P2X2/3 DKO mice but not TRPM5 KO mice remains to be determined.
Entrainment of Endangered Sturgeon by a Large Water Diversion: Rescue, Enumeration, and Conservation Opportunities
Authors: Killgore K. Jack , Hoover Jan Jeffrey , Slack William Todd , George Steven G. , Brantley Christopher G.
Published: July 2021

The Bonnet Carre’ Spillway diverts water from the Mississippi River through a floodway into Lake Pontchartrain to reduce river stages at New Orleans and prevent flood damages. Pallid Sturgeon, a federally listed species under the Endangered Species Act, and Shovelnose Sturgeon, listed under the Similarity of Appearance rule, are entrained through the Spillway structure and become trapped in the Spillway canals and other waterbodies. Five openings and corresponding rescue operations occurred between 2008 and 2019 after each Spillway closure. Operational parameters spanned a range of water temperatures and seasons with magnitude and duration of discharge varying across all openings. A total of 70 days with crew number ranging from 6 to 12 were expended to rescue 57 Pallid Sturgeon and 362 Shovelnose Sturgeon after the five openings that spanned 240 total days. More sturgeon were entrained at higher water temperatures, with greater numbers of bays opened, and for longer periods of time. Recovery of sturgeon is initially high but over time declines as sturgeon are depleted from the floodway, stranded in isolated waterbodies in the floodway, and/or displaced further downstream into Lake Pontchartrain during longer openings. Sturgeon that cannot find their way back to the floodway are unlikely to be rescued. Recent population studies indicate that less than 1% of the total population size in the Lower Mississippi River are entrained. However, this does not take into account those individuals entrained but not captured and the potential impacts of more frequent openings of the structure. Conservation recommendations are provided to increase catch efficiency and recovery of the endangered sturgeon.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and density functional theory study of benzyl 2-oxo-1-(prop-2-yn-1-yl)-1,2-dihydroquinoline-4-carboxylate
Authors: Bouzian Younos , Chkirate Karim , Mague Joel T. , Al-Ostoot Fares Hezam , Hammou Ahabchane Noureddine , Essassi El Mokhtar
Published: July 2021

The title molecule, C20H15NO3, adopts a Z-shaped conformation with the carboxyl group nearly coplanar with the dihydroquinoline unit. In the crystal, corrugated layers are formed by C—H...O hydrogen bonds and are stacked by C—H...π(ring) interactions. Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that the most important contributions to the crystal packing are from H...H (43.3%), H...C/C...H (26.6%) and H...O/O...H (16.3%) interactions. The optimized structure calculated using density functional theory at the B3LYP/ 6–311 G(d,p) level is compared with the experimentally determined structure in the solid state. The calculated HOMO–LUMO energy gap is 4.0319 eV.
Case study: impact of interdisciplinary interventions in a 9-year-old male child with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Berry Vinita , Sharma Chavi Bhargava
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to highlight the need for an interdisciplinary intervention approach to bring noteworthy changes in children with an autism spectrum disorder. It proposes to study how holistic individualized therapeutic plans can promote functionality even in the adolescent age. This study aims to channelize the restricted abilities in a positive manner and make it, a strength for the child. Social-emotional development along with academic goals is also proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on an exploratory study where participant observation was the main tool. Unstructured interviews with the therapists were conducted and the background history was taken. Documents and assessments related to the case were referred.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insight into the impact of an interdisciplinary intervention on autism spectrum disorder. It suggests that speech therapy, occupational therapy, special education and counseling taken up as a holistic approach and modified as per the needs and competence of the child prove to be effective. It also becomes evident that intervention can help the child to become functional and meaningful even if the intervention is started a little late in life. Consistency and intensity of interventions along with compassion play a very positive role in the life of children with autism.

Research limitations/implications

As the approach taken describes one case in depth, there is less probability of generalization of results. Therefore, it suggests a wide scope of testing the proposed propositions further.

Practical implications

This paper includes implications for the children with autism spectrum disorder, who: are not able to get early intervention for some reason and the ones who have special restricted abilities. It also is an inspiration for the service providers to develop comprehensive and interdisciplinary plans of intervention.

Social implications

This will help parents who somehow miss providing interventions at an early age to be hopeful and to seek help. The results are encouraging so as to make children with autism spectrum disorder more functional and acceptable in their lives.

Originality/value

This paper worked on the identified needs of children with autism but found that their restricted abilities that are commonly found can be used and channelized positively to become a strength. There is a scope and hope to guide these children toward a functional life where they can connect with others around them and are accepted and included in society. Individualized and interdisciplinary interventions prove to make these children happier and confident.
A nomological network study of employer branding with CSR, motivation and intention to stay
Authors: Kumar Vibhash , Jain Sonal , Singh Ajay Kumar
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study investigates the various factors which lead to the higher employer brand and studies the relationship of employer branding (EBR) with essential aspects of corporate life, namely, corporate social responsibility (CSR), levels of motivation experienced by employees and the intention to stay (ITS).

Design/methodology/approach

The study solicited a research sample from employees working in five sectors, information technology, hospitality, banking and consulting sector (n = 296). The study employed structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the nomological network of EBR.

Findings

The study underpins the sub-constructs of EBR. A direct positive and significant relationship was found between EBR and CSR and motivation fully mediated between EBR and ITS.

Originality/value

This study uniquely contributes to the literature by exploring the mediating role of motivation on EBR and ITS's relationship. The study validates the nomological network of EBR by considering its various organizational aspects and the corresponding intertwined relationships.
Resource mobilization and contributing resources to a collective task by emergency responders: an experimental study on collaboration in crisis response
Authors: Pramanik Roshni
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Twenty-first century crises reaffirm the need of faster mobilization of resources during crises. Without interorganizational collaboration and resource mobilization, organizing efficient response is not possible. Resource mobilization is an essential aspect of response. It ensures a faster and better response. Collaboration between teams of emergency responders may include commonly known boundary spanning activities such as resource sharing, information sharing and communication. The purpose of this paper is to contribute our knowledge of how to organize a better crisis response through collaboration. More precisely, what strategies work as drivers for emergency responder teams during collaboration in crisis scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

Through design of experiments, using tabletop exercises and online surveys, this study investigates the drivers of collaboration during a crisis scenario. Participants of this study are decision makers and emergency responders from various public actors in crisis management from Sweden.

Findings

Collaboration is essential to manage cross-functional services in normal times, as well as meet the growing needs during crises. In absence of collaboration, boundary spanning activities such as sharing resources or information to provide any kind of service will not be possible. For teams to survive in fast-changing environment, they must be able to adapt to the changing demands accordingly. This paper demonstrates which factors are drivers for emergency responders to mobilize resources, especially during crises. It captures the tension between individual and collective goals in crisis response and highlights the drivers that affect decision-making during crises.

Originality/value

The novelty of the paper lies in its methodology using tabletop exercises, design of experiments as part of Six Sigma toolbox and online surveys in combination with weightage of agreements and disagreements and free text answers. Although scientific research so far has demonstrated the need for collaboration during crises, however, which factors act as drivers for emergency responders to collaborate, is lacking scientific evidence. Incentives for collaboration have not been studied enough. These can tell us which strategies can improve collaboration during crises. This research paper is a scientific contribution in that direction.
A compact, broadband three-way substrate integrated waveguide power divider with improved isolation
Authors: Gande Arun Kumar , Guha Mallick Souma , Biswas Bijit , Chatterjee Sayan , Poddar Dipak Ranjan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to present a compact, broadband substrate integrated waveguide (SIW) three-way power divider with improved isolation based on six-port SIW coupler.

Design/methodology/approach

The power coupling among the three output ports occurs due to short openings in the narrow walls of the central SIW channel. Performance improvement in the isolation and return loss among ports is achieved using matching posts placed at the input and output ends of the coupling region. This enhances the coupling between TE10 and TE30 modes. The input matching ports enhance the return loss, whereas the isolation is alleviated by both the input and output matching posts. The bandwidth enhancement is achieved by optimizing the outer SIW channel widths.

Findings

The measured fractional bandwidth of 27.3% with over 15 dB of isolation and return loss is achieved. The coupling length is 1.55 λg at the centre frequency. The power divider achieves better than 15 dB isolation between non-adjacent output ports. The measured reflection and isolation coefficients are in close agreement with simulated results over 8.2 to 10.8 GHz.

Practical implications

Isolation between the adjacent and non-adjacent ports is an important parameter as the reflections from these ports will interfere with signals from other ports reducing the fractional bandwidth of the power divider and affecting the overall performance of the transmitters and receivers.

Originality/value

The authors present the enhancement of isolation between the output non-adjacent ports by optimizing the SIW channel width and matching post in the coupling region to reduce the reflected signals from non-adjacent ports entering into other ports. To the author’s knowledge, this is the only SIW three-way power divider paper showing non-adjacent port isolation among six-port couplers based three-way power dividers.
Conversational interfaces for unconventional access to business relational data structures
Authors: Kostelník Pavel , Dařena František
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Current possibilities of accessing business data by regular users usually involve complicated user interfaces or require technical expertise. This results in situations when business owners are separated from their data. The aim of this research is to apply an innovative approach leveraging conversational interfaces to tackle this problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine the current possibilities of accessing business data by business, users with an emphasis on conversational interfaces employing a chatbot as an alternative to traditional approaches. The authors propose a new concept relying on a guided conversation, and through experiments with a real chatbot and database, the authors demonstrate the benefits of the proposed approach.

Findings

The authors found out that the key to the success of our approach is a decomposition of complex database queries and their incremental construction in conversations. This also enables natural discovery of the domain model through constantly provided feedback. Based on the experiments with a real chatbot, the authors demonstrate that defining conversation flows and maintaining the conversation context is a crucial aspect contributing to the overall accuracy, together with keeping the conversation within the defined limits in its certain parts.

Originality/value

The authors present a novel approach using natural language interfaces for accessing data by business users. In contrast to existing approaches, the authors emphasize incremental construction of queries, predefined conversation flows and constraining the conversations, when necessary.
Monitoring implementation of the Tokyo Convention on recognition: a multi-stakeholder approach to the internationalization of higher education in the Asia-Pacific
Authors: Teter Wesley R. , Wang Libing
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic have transformed the global outlook for international higher education. Given the rapid shift to online learning, the Tokyo Convention in the Asia-Pacific entrusted to UNESCO has become an important policy framework to facilitate regional collaboration, authoritative information sharing and recognition of qualifications across diverse modes of learning. This paper examines the role of the Tokyo Convention to establish an inclusive platform for monitoring and collaborative governance of mobility and internationalization based on fair and transparent recognition policies and practices in the Asia-Pacific.

Design/methodology/approach

In August 2019, a standardized survey instrument was sent by the Secretariat of the Tokyo Convention Committee at UNESCO Bangkok to competent recognition authorities in 46 countries in the Asia-Pacific, including the eight State Parties to the Tokyo Convention that ratified the Convention as of the reporting period. In total, qualitative data from n = 27 countries/states was received and analyzed to assess implementation of the Tokyo Convention throughout the region. The research design illustrates how normative instruments such as the Tokyo Convention are monitored and assessed over time.

Findings

A multi-stakeholder approach based on collaborative governance is needed to effectively monitor implementation and implications of the Tokyo Convention for diverse higher education stakeholders in the Asia-Pacific region.

Research limitations/implications

Implications include establishing baseline data and methods for monitoring implementation of the Tokyo Convention. Based on collaborative governance theory, the paper explores potential for a multi-stakeholder approach to promote mutual accountability in the Asia-Pacific and to develop mechanisms for inclusive participation in the governance of the forthcoming Global Convention on recognition.

Originality/value

As the first systematic review of its kind, this paper includes a unique dataset and insights into UNESCO's methodology to monitor implementation of standard-setting instruments for qualifications recognition in the Asia-Pacific.
Reproductive health vs overall well-being: systematic review of studies on women migration and health care utilization
Authors: M.L. Parvathy , K. Hemalatha
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Sustainable development goals (SDGs) recognize the importance and interrelation between health and migration. Women migration and health is well researched, yet less attention is paid to their healthcare utilization, especially with regard to overall health and well-being. This paper aims to highlight the gap in the existing literature on health care utilization by women migrants.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review was carried out following the PRISMA guideline. For the review, the literature was taken from three electronic databases, which were Springer Link, Taylor and Francis and PubMed. From a total of 1,575 studies, seven studies cleared the eligibility screening.

Findings

Of seven studies, five were found to focus on the sexual and reproductive health of the women migrants than their general health and well-being, and less attention is paid to health promotion and illness prevention beyond reproductive and sexual health. While, studies on general health have focused on the influence of health status on health care utilization and the influence of health insurance in health care utilization. The review has revealed the disparities faced by migrant women in different countries while seeking health care.

Originality/value

Studies on women migration and health care utilization have largely focused on the reproductive and sexual health needs of women, and this overemphasis often undermines their accessibility and affordability to overall health and well-being. Therefore, the present study has moved away from the concept of sexual and reproductive health tot that of overall health and well-being of women migrants.
The alignment between management accounting and lean manufacturing: rhetoric and reality
Authors: Oliveira Fontenelle Amanda , Sagawa Juliana Keiko
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Lean manufacturing (LM) has advocated gains by reducing waste and intensifying continuous improvement. As a holistic organizational policy, it must overpass the limits of the manufacturing function. Management accounting should be aligned to lean thinking, aiming to meet the demands and goals of a lean organization. This paper aims to investigate the degree of alignment between management accounting systems and LM practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Two representative case studies were carried out in industry leaders in the implementation of LM, in Brazil. The key research constructs and were identified by means of a systematic literature review. The rhetoric and practice concerning the alignment between management accounting and LM are discussed based on the existing theory and the conducted case studies.

Findings

The analysis showed that many of the principles that form the rhetoric of lean accounting are far from the accounting practices observed in the companies. Using the theory-building function of case studies, 10 propositions to be tested in future research are proposed. The main propositions are also summarized in a framework based on analogies with optical lenses.

Originality/value

To the best of the knowledge, there are no previous in-depth studies focusing on characterizing this alignment between management accounting and LM practices. The analysis yields prescriptive directions for managers that seek to improve this alignment in their business. This study also proposes a five-stage maturity model, which can be used by the managers to assess this alignment and to set goals for reaching more advanced levels of maturity.
The effect of equity on value co-creation in business relationships
Authors: Gupta Samir , Zhou Jing , Feng Shanfei , Nyadzayo Munyaradzi W.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how the relationship factors, including equity, shared responsibility and relationship dependence leverage the value co-creation. The research studies the value co-creation process in a business-to-business (B2B) context between suppliers and customers and provides empirical evidence of the underlying effects.

Design/methodology/approach

Using social exchange theory, the research uses a mixed-method of in-depth interviews and questionnaire surveys. The sample of the survey has 123 business customers.

Findings

The findings suggest that equity not only positively affects but also mediates the effect of shared responsibility on value co-creation. The mediation effect is further moderated by the relationship dependence that buyers have on the seller.

Research limitations/implications

The cross-sectional survey used cannot establish causality relationships. Although the goal was not to establish causality, it could limit the rigor of the study. The longitudinal design could be used in the future to better address this deficiency. While the paper is the initial step to analyze the factors influencing value co-creation empirically, more studies could examine other commonly discussed constructs.

Originality/value

This empirical study enriches the value co-creation literature by examining the antecedents’ detailed mechanism that facilitates value co-creation in a B2B context.
Are business schools at small liberal arts universities cost prohibitive or cost savvy?
Authors: Wilkinson Timothy J. , Correia Candice L. , Williams Michael
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Financial struggles affecting universities across the United States have caused debate about whether business schools are cost prohibitive or cost savvy, especially for small liberal arts universities that lack large endowments and are highly dependent upon student enrolment. In other words, are they too expensive for small schools to operate? The presence of a business school necessitates hiring business faculty with comparatively high salary expectations.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper analyses the cost effectiveness of business schools at four small liberal arts universities.

Findings

Our results show that cost is most strongly correlated with class size and adjunct instruction as opposed to faculty salaries.

Research limitations/implications

Thus, class size and the implementation of adjunct instruction can make having a business school not only affordable but also advantageous.

Practical implications

Business schools offer a way for universities with missions centred around developing the whole person through a liberal arts education to remain a going concern in such a volatile climate.

Originality/value

This paper uses proprietary data to analyse the cost of faculty in different disciplines.
Harmonious homegoings: alleviating consumer vulnerability through service fluidity and compassion
Authors: Azzari Courtney Nations , Mitchell Natalie A. , Dadzie Charlene A.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the role of service flexibility in addressing consumer vulnerability for chronically-traumatized consumers within the funerary context.

Design/methodology/approach

Using phenomenological philosophy and a grounded approach, data was collected and analyzed through 12 depth interviews with funeral service providers, coupled with observations and photographs of three second-line funeral processionals.

Findings

Study results include the following three primary roles of service providers in supporting chronically-traumatized consumers: the role of service fluidity in addressing trauma, mitigating vulnerability via service providers as community members and alleviating suffering through compassionate service. Service flexibility and value co-creation efforts were executed through an expansive service ecosystem of vendors.

Practical implications

When consumers experience vulnerability that demands reliance upon service industries, service providers can intentionally implement fluidity and agility in service design, adopt understanding and altruistic practices, and operate with empathy and compassion to orchestrate mutually-beneficial service outcomes.

Social implications

Rooted in transformative service research, providers are advised to consider modifying services to improve well-being and mitigate vulnerability for chronically-traumatized consumers via fluidity, community and compassion.

Originality/value

This study contributes originality to the body of service marketing literature by illustrating how service providers alleviate vulnerability for chronically-traumatized consumers through three adaptive service strategies.
Blockchain-integrated technologies for solving supply chain challenges
Authors: Gohil Dhruman , Thakker Shivangi Viral
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Blockchain technology was developed to synchronize the data and transactions over the supply chain network and connected nodes. This paper aims to show how blockchain technology can enhance flexibility and agility in supply chain operations. The integration of blockchain and other recently developed technology can help deal with supply chain uncertainties and other challenges being faced by the industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an extensive literature review of existing research papers and conversation with supply chain managers, barriers and challenges in the supply chain were identified. Some elements were researched of blockchain technology that can be used to resolve some challenges. Blockchain technology and other technologies integration is developed for implementation in supply chain for better visibility and efficiency of supply chain.

Findings

The challenges in the supply chain are categorized, and the solution is given through the integration of blockchain and other technologies like Internet of Things and artificial intelligence. The integration shows the execution of tasks through blockchain and various technologies in supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

Blockchain in supply chain is finding its strong place in India when compared to developing nations. There is a need for technology experts, supply chain managers and consumers to understand blockchain’s importance. Challenges faced by industries to use blockchain may be analyzed further with real-life industry case studies.

Practical implications

This research helps enterprises in successful execution of smart technologies in their supply chains. This research helps enterprises in successful execution of smart technologies in their supply chains. Managers and practitioners may use the models developed in real-time implementation. The technologies are described in detail to help the practitioners select the best suitable for their organization.

Social implications

Digital supply chains are finding the way in industries due to lean and efficient nature. It is beneficial to use the smart technologies to make supply chain green and sustainable.

Originality/value

The implementation of the digital supply chain and its challenges are discussed in the research paper. This will work as a platform for research in the area of technologies for supply chain.
Intrinsic mode choice determinants based on a descriptive analysis of the perceptions of Abuja commuters: towards refocusing the societal mind-set on environmentally sustainable modes choice
Authors: Blamah Nunyi Vachaku , Magidimisha-Chipungu Hangwelani , Dayomi Matthew , Popoola Ayobami Abayomi
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper sought to uncover the intrinsic determinants of the choice of transport modes in Nigeria's capital city, Abuja, based on commuters' perceptions on different modes of transport. The ultimate goal of the study was to come up with suitable multifaceted measures to deter private car usage, while refocusing society's mind-set towards alternative forms of transport, thereby keying into some transport-related sustainable development goals (SDG) goals.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted qualitative methods: 320 commuters were surveyed at bus stops and car parks around the city, and respondents were identified using multistage sampling, aided by purposive/convenience sampling, and this number was reached by saturation of themes. Focus group discussions were held with eight screened public officials from relevant (transportation and environment related) agencies/unions in the city. NVivo 10 software was used to thematically analyse the data gathered from a relativist and an interpretive stand point.

Findings

The study found transport mode choice to be intrinsically more motivated by socio-economic forces serving as a basis for other socio-psychological factors. Multifaceted measures, including spatial, socio-economic, environmental and public relation measures, were found suitable to break car-use motives in the study area towards adopting alternative modes of transport, thereby achieving some transport-related SDG targets.

Originality/value

The study was unique as it looked at the intrinsic mode choice determinants from a Sub-Saharan African capital city perspective and provided suitable multifaceted best practiced measures that deemphasised car use while emphasising alternative modes, thereby shifting commuters' mind-set towards environmentally sustainable modes of transport.
Diagnosing of clay distribution in argillaceous sandstone by a rock physics template
Authors: Nie Junguang , Qu Zhipeng , Cheng Yuanfeng , Wang Xingmou , Zhu Jianbing , Sun Shuai , Zhao Luanxiao , Geng Jianhua
Published: July 2021

The elastic properties of argillaceous sandstones are significantly controlled, however, by the perplexing distribution of dispersed, cemented and matrix (including structural and layered) clay. The corresponding rock physics models are established to investigate the influence of different clay distribution on the elastic properties of sandstone. The rock physics modelling and laboratory experimental results exhibit that the higher the content of the matrix clay, the lower the elastic wave velocity. The dispersed and cemented clay increases the sandstone's velocity by reducing the porosity; the increase of dispersed clay only causes a slight increase in the elastic wave velocity in sandstone. In contrast, a small amount of cemented clay can significantly increase the velocity in sandstone. Based on these understandings, we construct a cross‐plot of P‐wave velocity and clay content as a template to diagnose clay distribution. Based on the rock physics model and empirical knowledge, we divide the template into four zones, namely, matrix, dispersed, cemented and mixed clay distribution zones. Then, we use the published experimental data and numerical modelling data to validate the template. Based on diagnosing the clay distribution, we introduce how to use the diagnostic results of the template to select a suitable rock physics model for argillaceous sandstone in Shengli Oil Field, East China. The selected rock physics model, guided by diagnosing the clay distribution, predicts P‐ and S‐wave velocity very well. The proposed rock physics template for diagnosing clay distribution also has potential application in well‐logging data interpretation, rock physics modelling and reservoir characterization.
Gauging the impact of Ethiopia’s productive safety net programme on agriculture: Application of targeted maximum likelihood estimation approach
Authors: Bahru Bezawit Adugna , Zeller Manfred
Published: July 2021

The Productive Safety Net Programme (PSNP) is Ethiopia's poverty reduction strategy that forms the most important pillar of the country's agricultural transformation into a more productive and competitive sector. However, the extent to which the PSNP is linked to agriculture is unclear. This paper evaluates the impact of the PSNP on a range of agricultural outcomes. We use data from the Living Standard Measurement Study—Integrated Survey on Agriculture and apply the targeted maximum likelihood estimation method. We find no evidence that PSNP participation improved technology adoption, time spent in agriculture, household‐level access to agricultural services, or women's control over agricultural assets. However, PSNP participation increased access to credit, the share of non‐farm income, hours spent on casual work, community access to irrigation water, ownership of agricultural tools, community service in crop and livestock production, natural resource management, and access to credit. We also observe that PSNP households have a lower level of endowments compared to non‐PSNP households. Given the observed lack of impact on household‐level agricultural outcomes, we recommend integrating household‐level interventions, such as increasing the transfer size and provision of productive assets, that could lift household endowments above an asset threshold that would allow the productive use of community assets. This may boost the productive impact of the PSNP at the household level, facilitate agricultural development and economic growth. To generate additional insights, we recommend further research with sufficient data on the causal pathways between safety nets and agriculture.
A study of the effect of working parameters and validation of SEM/EDS method for determination of elemental composition of commonly encountered GSR samples in shooting events in Kosovo
Authors: Tahirukaj Milazim , Olluri Blerim , Surleva Andriana
Published: July 2021

Reliability of forensic evidences for presence of inorganic gunshot residue (iGSR) on a given surface strongly depends on the performance of scanning electron microscopy/energy dispersive X‐ray spectrometry (SEM‐EDS) method. This article presents the results from a study of the effect of SEM/EDS working parameters on the method performance and quality of iGSR data, as well as a development of a database of iGSR encountered in R Kosovo. The optimal working parameters of SEM/EDS were established by one‐variable‐at‐a‐time approach and the method was validated according to ASTM1588‐10. The precision, trueness, and expanded uncertainty for PbBaSb particles were estimated and the method was assessed as a “fit for purpose” with a satisfactory performance (z‐score < 2). Expended uncertainty of quantification of GSR particles estimated by single laboratory and quality control approach was 6% (k = 2). The validated SEM/EDS method was applied for identification of characteristic iGSR particles in samples from shooting events in Kosovo. The method was demonstrated to be capable of providing a legal proof for iGSR existence on a specific surface. The quality of the results was not influenced by the origin of iGSR. Five hundred fifty‐five samples from 144 cases occurred during the last 3 years were analyzed and 14% rate of positive results was found.
Deconstructing Fallacies in Products Liability Law to Provide a Remedy for Economic Loss
Authors: del Riego Alissa
Published: July 2021

For years, products liability law has failed to provide a remedy for consumers who suffer financial injury as a result of purchasing defective products manufacturers place and keep in the marketplace. The economic loss rule and defect manifestation requirements have, to date, foreclosed products liability claims when consumers suffer only economic injury and severely hampered recovery through other claims. Prior discussion of consumer economic loss litigation has been critical and embraced the necessity of the injury‐based economic loss rule and defect manifestation requirements to protect manufacturers from perceived endless liability. While a few scholars have addressed some of the deficiencies behind the economic loss rule, this article builds on those discussions, addressing for the first time the flawed rationales behind defect manifestation requirements, and deconstructs in detail the outdated and flawed assumptions or fallacies upon which the rationales behind both doctrines are based. After deconstructing and exposing the, at best, questionable assumptions behind the economic loss rule and defect manifestation requirements, the article advocates a novel expansion of products liability law that provides a remedy for consumer economic loss caused by dangerously defective products. This proposed framework provides the proper demarcation between contract and tort, is consistent with earlier justifications eliminating privity and negligence, better aligns consumer safety with manufacturers' economic interests, bridges the current liability gap, and streamlines existing litigation.
Analysis of local sensitivity to nonignorability with missing outcomes and predictors
Authors: Chen Heng , Heitjan Daniel F.
Published: July 2021

The ISNI (index of sensitivity to local nonignorability) method quantifies local sensitivity of parametric inferences to nonignorable missingness in an outcome variable. Here we extend ISNI to the situations where both outcomes and predictors can be missing and where the missingness mechanism can be either parametric or semi‐parametric. We define the quantity MinNI (minimum nonignorability) to be an approximation to the norm of the smallest value of the transformed nonignorability that gives a nonnegligible displacement of the estimate of the parameter of interest. We illustrate our method in a complete data set from which we synthetically delete observations according to various patterns. We then apply the method to real‐data examples involving the normal linear model and conditional logistic regression.
Pregnancy and birth in the United States during the COVID‐19 pandemic: The views of doulas
Authors: Adams Crystal
Published: July 2021

Background

Much of the emerging research on the effects of SARS‐CoV‐2 disease (COVID‐19) on pregnant people and their infants has been clinical, devoting little attention to how the pandemic has affected families navigating pregnancy and birth. This study examined the perspectives of doulas, or nonclinical labor support professionals, on how pregnancy and birth experiences and maternal health care delivery systems changed in the early weeks of the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews using open‐ended questions were conducted over the phone with 15 birth doulas. Doulas were invited to participate because of their close relationships with pregnant and birthing people and the comprehensive support they offer. The interview transcripts were analyzed inductively.

Results

Doulas’ clients faced three predominant COVID‐19‐related pregnancy and birth challenges: (a) fear of exposure; (b) limited access to their expected support systems; and (c) uncertainties surrounding hospital restrictions on labor and birth. Doulas responded creatively to help their clients confront these challenges. Participants expressed various criticisms of how maternal health care systems handled the emerging crisis, argued that COVID‐19 exposed preexisting weaknesses in US maternity care, and called for a coordinated care model involving doulas.

Discussion

Doulas' close relationships with pregnant people enabled them to be an important source of support during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Added to the larger body of work on the impacts of doula care, this study supports widespread calls for universally integrating doulas into maternity care systems as a targeted strategy to better support pregnant and birthing people in both crisis and noncrisis situations.