bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analyzing the barriers for blockchain-enabled BIM adoption in facility management using best-worst method approach
Authors: Singh Atul Kumar , Kumar V.R. Prasath
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Blockchain is a developing technology that affects numerous industries, including facility management (FM). Many barriers are associated with adopting blockchain-enabled building information modeling (BEBIM) in FM. This research aims to identify and prioritize the barriers to adopting BEBIM in FM.

Design/methodology/approach

To address the knowledge gap, this study employs a two-phase methodology for evaluating the barriers to adopting BEBIM in FM. The first phase involves a comprehensive literature review identifying 14 barriers to BEBIM adoption. Using a Delphi approach, the identified barriers were categorized into 6 groups and finalized by 11 experts, adding 3 more barriers to the list. The best-worst method (BWM) determines the priority weights of identified barriers and sub-barriers in the second phase.

Findings

This study reveals that adopting BEBIM for FM in India faces significant hurdles. The most critical barriers are “limited collaboration” and “communication among stakeholders,” “legal constraints in certain jurisdictions” and “challenges in establishing trust and governance models.” To mitigate these barriers, stakeholders should foster collaboration and communication, develop efficient blockchain technology (BT) and establish a trust and governance model.

Practical implications

This work underscores the importance of formulating effective strategies to overcome the identified barriers and emphasizes implications that can assist policymakers and industry stakeholders in achieving successful BEBIM adoption for improved FM practice.

Originality/value

The study provides valuable insights for policymakers, construction industry stakeholders and facility managers interested in leveraging this technology to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of FM practice in India.
Benefits, enablers and barriers in deploying PPP when developing smart infrastructure in non-urban areas
Authors: Jayasena Nimesha Sahani , Chan Daniel W.M. , Kumaraswamy Mohan
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The widespread lockdown restrictions brought by the global COVID-19 epidemic inculcated a culture of “work-from-home”. However, most rural areas lack reliable and effective community amenities including transportation, health and education, thereby impeding healthy living and productive employment. Therefore, the underlying goal of this research is to investigate the development of smart infrastructure (SI) in non-urban areas. However, governments' resource limitations must be addressed to develop SI, which urges the research on the potential for public-private partnerships (PPP) to supplement public sector resources when necessary.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examined and evaluated the “benefits and enablers” and “barriers” to deploying PPPs to create SI in non-urban areas, using a thorough literature review, five expert interviews and analytic hierarchy process (AHP)-based questionnaire responses. The AHP technique and content analysis were used to analyse the results and generate the conclusions.

Findings

The availability of a favourable investment climate and legal framework were identified as the significant factors among the “benefits and enablers” of adopting PPP in SI developments in non-urban areas, while low community acceptance of the private sector involvement, and community culture and values were identified as the significant factors among the “barriers”. These highlight the significance of removing barriers connected to community culture and “values”.

Originality/value

The findings and conclusions of this study provide a strong foundation to support the growth of SI in non-urban settings, facilitating more sustainable development that is more evenly distributed in the post-COVID-19 future.
Technical-economic evaluation of lipo- and water-soluble fractions from annatto seeds by green technology
Authors: Franca Simone Alves Monteiro da , Cavalcanti Rodrigo Nunes , Madruga Marta S. , Pereira Deyse Alves , Grisi Cristiani Viegas Brandão , Magnani Marciane , Pedrosa Geany Targino de Souza , Albuquerque Carolina Lima Cavalcanti de
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The objective of this study was to evaluate the technical-economic process efficiency of obtaining simultaneous lipo-soluble (LSF) and water-soluble (WSF) fractions from annatto seeds.

Design/methodology/approach

The batches of annatto seeds were submitted to the refrigerated solid-liquid extraction process in four stages: pre-extraction, aqueous extraction, separation by decantation and filtration. After that, LSF and WSF from annatto seeds were obtained. The process efficiency and the quality of LSF and WSF were analyzed in terms of average yield and bioactive compounds (bixin, norbixin, phenolics and flavonoids) and their antioxidant and antimicrobial activities. Furthermore, they were economically evaluated in terms of costs of manufacturing and profitability parameters.

Findings

The process was efficient in terms of overall average yield (LSF = 8.68% and WSF = 2.76%) (w/w) and in terms of quality, mainly with higher average yields of bixin (82.34% in LSF) and norbixin (29.59% in WSF) (w/w). The concentration of bioactive compounds in the fractions promoted an increase in inhibiting free radicals (DPPH* and ABTS*+) and in the ferric-reducing power (FRAP). LSF showed a minimum inhibitory concentration of 0.06 mg mL-1 for S. aureus and 0.13 mg mL-1 for S. Typhimurium and S. Enteritidis. The lowest manufacturing costs were obtained for the LSF due to its higher extraction yield compared to the WSF. Plants on an industrial scale of 100 and 1000 L were considered economically viable, with a return on investment of 5 and 2 years.

Originality/value

Thus, fractions (WSF and LSF) can be applied as natural additives, as sources of bioactive compounds for nutraceutical and/or pharmaceutical, and in the development of other innovative processes. These results have practical applicability for pharmaceutical and food industry.

Highlights

 

Green processing of annatto seeds obtains fractions rich in antioxidant compounds.

Efficiently presents a high yield of bixin and other bioactive compounds.

Effective in concentrating compounds that inhibit microbial growth.

Fractions are more accessible sources of bioactive compounds for isolation.

Cost of manufacturing (COM) and profitability are studied.
Food quality and supply chain networks in dynamic business environments: evidence from the Nigerian shrimp subsector
Authors: Adetoyinbo Ayobami , Asravor Jacob , Olaleye Sunday Adewale , Owusu Victor
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Research efforts aiming to improve understanding of how various organisational relationships contribute to better food quality (FQ) in a constantly changing business environment are limited. This study examines the effects of supply chain (SC) organisations on the quality of food products across multi-tiered segments with dynamic business situations.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by a conceptual research framework based on contingency theory and netchain analysis, moderation-based partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyse multi-tiered data from 405 shrimpers and 238 women processors in Akwa-Ibom, Lagos and Ondo states in Nigeria.

Findings

The authors' findings show that unpredictable business environments such as market turbulence (MT), power asymmetry (PA) and distrust (DT) not only directly influence SC organisations but also moderate how organisational networks contribute to improved FQ. Further results reveal that closer vertical ties such as relational contracts are prerequisites for small-scale actors to guarantee improved FQ along multiple nodes of the food system.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine, from a contingency and multi-tiered perspective, how small-scale actors can maintain FQ across interdependent nodes of a food chain in a developing country context and to explore the complex interplay between SC networks and the quality of highly perishable food products in unpredictable business environments. Relevant theoretical and policy implications are discussed.
Consumer perception and willingness to pay for packaged asaana: a traditional drink in Ghana
Authors: Nimoh Fred , Prah Stephen , Yamoah Fred , Agyei Doreen
Published: December 2023

Purpose

In view of the increasing trend in food policies targeting the promotion of consumer interest in locally produced foods and growing developments in willingness-to-pay (WTP) methodologies, the authors investigate consumer preference for packaged traditional drink asaana.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a simple random sample of 336 consumers to draw on perception index and contingent valuation methods to evaluate consumers' perceptions of the attributes of packaged asaana – a traditional maize-based beverage produced in Ghana (also known as Ghana Coca-Cola). A tobit regression model was employed to analyze consumers’ WTP for the product.

Findings

Analyzing the factors that influence consumers' WTP for packaged asaana using the tobit regression model, the study established the existence of positive health and nutrition, economic benefits and purchasing decision-making perceptions for asaana. While the results further showed that consumers are willing to pay a premium for well-packaged asaana, demographics such as age, income level, labeling, price of the product and savings were found to exert significant influence on consumers’ WTP for packaged asaana. Salient recommendations for food processors and relevant government agencies and food policy implications are identified.

Research limitations/implications

Comprehending WTP provides valuable understanding regarding consumer qualms, actions and WTP for more secure traditional drinks and an examination of how the different factors that influence WTP for local beverages help boost local beverage production and guarantee employment.

Practical implications

Analyzing WTP data for traditional drinks reveals important implications for production, marketing and public health policies. Certification systems for traditional beverages may be beneficial, and the findings can be used to create public awareness campaigns about the safety of local drinks.

Originality/value

Assessing the WTP among Ghanaian consumers for traditional drinks, specifically asaana, is a ground-breaking study. The contingent evaluation (CE) and tobit regression approaches utilized in this research are strong, and the results obtained can guide decisions related to traditional drink production, marketing and the development of public health policies.
Examining the role of cause-related marketing in influencing the purchase intention of Indian customers in the FMCG sector: the role of attitude and cause involvement
Authors: Pandey Prasant Kumar , Bajpai Naval , Tiwari Abhijeet V.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Many studies conducted on cause-related marketing (CaRM) are concentrated in advanced economies. However, there is very little work reported pertaining to CaRM in emerging economies like India. Hence, the aim of this study is to analyze the effect of CaRM on the customers' purchase intention (PI) in the Indian fast-moving consumer goods (FMCGs) sector, which is the fourth largest sector in the Indian economy. Further, this study tests the mediating effect of attitude and the moderating effect of cause involvement.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs a quantitative methodology. Primary data were collected from 1220 respondents from North India. PLS-SEM is employed to examine the data.

Findings

The findings reveal that CaRM strongly impacts FMCG customers' purchasing intentions. Further, a positive attitude toward cause-related marketing triggers the customer purchase intention. Third, the results show that cause involvement moderates purchase intentions, so those who feel passionately dedicated to the cause are more inclined to buy while being involved in the cause-related marketing program.

Practical implications

The results would aid marketers in developing effective CaRM campaigns for their FMCG brands by understanding the different combinations of factors influencing CaRM.

Originality/value

FMCG is one of the major pillars of the Indian economy. This research proposes a comprehensive conceptual framework for the current study that is supported by literature. This study provides evidence of the increasingly important role of CaRM in establishing a win-win association with customers, aiming to solve specific societal causes and creating a favorable image of the brand in the FMCG sector.
Do food delivery apps influence food waste generation? A stimulus-organism-behavior-consequence (SOBC) exploration
Authors: Islam Shabab Absarul , Jones Robert Paul , Akhi Asma Azad , Talukder Md. Shamim
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Food waste in the hospitality sector has emerged as a global concern. Various technology-driven online food services such as the food delivery apps (FDA) contribute to hospitality food waste. FDA users might behave irresponsibly by ordering more foods than required which may lead to food waste generation. To date, limited studies have been attempted to understand how consumers’ over-ordering behavior through FDA result in hospitality food waste.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to analyze survey data from 248 FDA users.

Findings

The results indicated that perceived convenience and trust positively influence consumers' attitude toward FDA, which in turn promotes over-ordering behavior. Interestingly, the anticipated positive relationship between price advantage and attitude toward FDA was not supported by the data. Furthermore, the authors confirmed that over-ordering behavior contributes to food waste, an outcome that has crucial implications for both the hospitality sector and sustainability efforts.

Originality/value

The current study employs the stimulus-organism-behavior-consequence (SOBC) theory to investigate the catalysts and consequences of over-ordering behavior via FDA. This study thus highlights the importance of the SOBC model in understanding consumer behavior.
Racelighting in Utah education: counterstories across contexts
Authors: Wall Maeve , Shiver S. , Partola Sonny , Wilson Steffes Nicole , Ojeda Rosie
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The authors suggest strategies for addressing and combating these attempts at racelighting.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors of this article– five anti-racist educators working in various educational settings in SLC– employ the Critical Race Theory counter-story methodology (Delgado and Stefancic, 1993) to confront resistance to educational equity in Utah. They do so by first providing a historical context of race and education in Utah before presenting four short counterstories addressing the racelighting efforts of students, fellow educators and administrators when confronted with the complexities of racial injustice.

Findings

These counterstories are particularly important in light of the recent increase in color-evasive and whitewashed messaging used to attack CRT and to deny the existence of racism in the SLC school system in K-post-secondary education, and in the U.S. as a whole.

Originality/value

These stories are set in a unique environment, yet they hold national relevance. The racial and religious demographics in Utah shed light on the foundational ethos of the country – white, Christian supremacy. They reveal what is at stake in defending it and some of the key mechanisms of that defense.
Microaggressions in the heartland “flyover” region: history, progress, lessons learned and challenges
Authors: Foster Lyle , Uribe-Zarain Ximena , Obafemi-Ajayi Tayo
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This article sheds light on the impact of collective characteristics of microaggression in a community and how this affects the perception and experiences of its underrepresented members through the lens of critical race theory (CRT). Using the Springfield community of the southwest Missouri Ozarks region in the United States of America as the authors' focus, the authors explore the barrier of microaggression in the lived experiences of a community striving for diversity and inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors performed a systematic analysis using four CRT tenets: race is a social construct; racism is systematic, racism is commonplace and listening to lived experiences is essential. A sample of underrepresented professionals from the region was surveyed to obtain their lived experiences. Qualitative media analysis on varied media pieces was conducted to obtain context for the environment that precipitated these experiences.

Findings

When residents from marginalized backgrounds face consistent microaggressions, their sense of belonging and contributions to the community significantly diminish, which has adverse implications for the community. If these issues are unaddressed, they might choose to leave due to feelings of underrepresentation. Community leaders must proactively implement strategies to welcome an evolving population and educate stakeholders about the detrimental effects of microaggressions on community cohesion.

Originality/value

Historically, the heartland of the United States of America has been a bellwether of the pulse of its average citizen. This region is currently experiencing an increase in diversity along with a significant rise in persistent microaggressions. Using CRT to analyze the impact, lessons learned and challenges, the authors provide recommendations for potential changes that could benefit the nation as a whole.
Aramid/alginate blended nonwoven fabrics: thermal degradation properties, flame-retardant mechanism and smoke suppression
Authors: Li Yuan , Xia Yanzhi , Li Min , Liu Jinchi , Yu Miao , Li Yutian
Published: December 2023

Purpose

In this paper the aim is that Aramid/alginate blended nonwoven fabrics were prepared, and the flame retardancy of the blended nonwoven fabrics was studied by thermogravimetric analysis, vertical flame test, limiting oxygen index (LOI) and cone calorimeter test.

Design/methodology/approach

The advantages of different fibers can be combined by blending, and the defects may be remedied. The study investigates whether incorporating alginate fibers into aramid fibers can enhance the flame retardancy and reduce the smoke production of prepared aramid/alginate blended nonwoven fabrics.

Findings

Thermogravimetric analysis indicated that alginate fibers could effectively inhibit the combustion performance of aramid fibers at a higher temperature zone, leaving more residual chars for heat isolation. And vertical flame test, LOI and cone calorimeter test testified that the incorporation of alginate fibers improved the flame retardancy and fire behaviors. When the ratio of alginate fibers for aramid/alginate blended nonwoven fabrics reached 80%, the incorporation of alginate fibers could notably decreased peak-heat release rate (54%), total heat release (THR) (29%), peak-smoke production rate (93%) and total smoke production (86%). What is more, the lower smoke production rate and lower THR of the blends vastly reduced the risk of secondary injury in fires.

Originality/value

This study proposes to inhibit the flue gas release of aramid fiber and enhance the flame retardant by mixing with alginate fiber, and proposes that alginate fiber can be used as a biological smoke inhibitor, as well as a flame retardant for aramid fiber.
Online posting intention: do the social communication and brand equity of esports matter?
Authors: Wang Xi , You Xinyi , Xu Yulan , Zheng Jie
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Social media's role in engaging participants in sports events, particularly during the pandemic, is acknowledged. However, previous studies often utilized sports events for diverse objectives but overlooked brand equity's influence on sports event development. And very limited research explores social media's impact on brand equity in esports events, despite its significance. Therefore, this study aims to explore how social media affects esports event brand equity and participants' satisfaction and engagement with social media through brand equity's influence.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focused on League of Legends World Championships (LOLWC) participants, who completed a self-judged questionnaire online. The questionnaire included demographic details and latent constructs. Data analysis involved two steps: exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to assess measurement scale validity and structural equation modeling (SEM) to study relationships between traits.

Findings

The results reveal that, within the esports event context, controlled communication exerts a meaningful and dual impact – both directly and indirectly – on the fundamental components of brand equity. This, in turn, serves as a catalyst for increasing participant contentment and their posting intention.

Originality/value

This study applies brand equity theories to the esports domain, exploring participant-based brand equity concepts, user behavior and the influence of social media communication on event branding and engagement. It also recommends strategies for event improvement, emphasizes controlled communication for brand equity and highlights marketing's role in brand awareness, association and participant satisfaction. Additionally, it suggests government regulation to address cyber violence during esports events.
The determinants of credit restrictions and their impact on micro firms: the case of Colombia
Authors: Mora Jhon James , Espada Castro Andres David
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This article analyzes the determinants of credit constraints and their effects on the productivity of micro-firms in Colombia.

Design/methodology/approach

An Endogenous Switching Regression Model (ESRM) is estimated to analyze credit constraint impact on economic performance.

Findings

The results show that owner characteristics such as age and gender decrease the likelihood of being constrained. Firms' characteristics, such as legal status, the formality of the employees, commercial property and savings, are important for reducing credit constraints.

Originality/value

This article discusses how formal credit restrictions harm the economic performance of Colombia's micro-firms. The results show that the productivity of the micro firms in Colombia could increase, on average, by U$ 825 USD when all types of restrictions are eliminated.
Effect of the elevated temperature on the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete using fly ash and ground granulated blast slag
Authors: Pratap Bheem , Kumar Pramod
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To investigate the mechanical properties of geopolymer concrete at elevated temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation involved studying the influence of partially replacing fly ash with ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) at different proportions (5%, 10%, 15%, 20% and 25%) on the composition of the geopolymer. This approach aimed to examine how the addition of GGBS impacts the properties of the geopolymer material. The chemical NaOH was purchased from the local supplier of Jamshedpur. The alkali solution was prepared with a concentration of 12 M NaOH to produce the concrete. After several trials, the alkaline-to-binder ratio was determined to be 0.43.

Findings

The compressive strength values at 28 days for specimens FG1, FG2, FG3, FG4 and FG5 are 35.42 MPa, 41.26 MPa, 44.79 MPa, 50.51 MPa and 46.33 MPa, respectively. The flexural strength values at 28 days for specimens FG1, FG2, FG3, FG4 and FG5 are 5.31 MPa, 5.64 MPa, 6.12 MPa, 7.15 MPa and 6.48 MPa, respectively. The split tensile strength values at 28 days for specimens FG1, FG2, FG3, FG4 and FG5 are 2.82 MPa, 2.95 MPa, 3.14 MPa, 3.52 MPa and 3.31 MPa, respectively.

Originality/value

This approach allows for the examination of how the addition of GGBS affects the properties of the geopolymer material. Four different temperature levels were chosen for analysis: 100 °C, 300 °C, 500 °C and 700 °C. By subjecting the geopolymer samples to these elevated temperatures, the study aimed to observe any changes in their mechanical.
Agricultural price forecasting based on the spatial and temporal influences factors under spillover effects
Authors: Tang Dezhao , Cai Qiqi , Nie Tiandan , Zhang Yuanyuan , Wu Jinghua
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Integrating artificial intelligence and quantitative investment has given birth to various agricultural futures price prediction models suitable for nonlinear and non-stationary data. However, traditional models have limitations in testing the spatial transmission relationship in time series, and the actual prediction effect is restricted by the inability to obtain the prices of other variable factors in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

To explore the impact of spatiotemporal factors on agricultural prices and achieve the best prediction effect, the authors innovatively propose a price prediction method for China's soybean and palm oil futures prices. First, an improved Granger Causality Test was adopted to explore the spatial transmission relationship in the data; second, the Seasonal and Trend decomposition using Loess model (STL) was employed to decompose the price; then, the Apriori algorithm was applied to test the time spillover effect between data, and CRITIC was used to extract essential features; finally, the N-Beats model was selected as the prediction model for futures prices.

Findings

Using the Apriori and STL algorithms, the authors found a spillover effect in agricultural prices, and past trends and seasonal data will impact future prices. Using the improved Granger causality test method to analyze the unidirectional causality relationship between the prices, the authors obtained a spatial effect among the agricultural product prices. By comparison, the N-Beats model based on the spatiotemporal factors shows excellent prediction effects on different prices.

Originality/value

This paper addressed the problem that traditional models can only predict the current prices of different agricultural products on the same date, and traditional spatial models cannot test the characteristics of time series. This result is beneficial to the sustainable development of agriculture and provides necessary numerical and technical support to ensure national agricultural security.
Who corrects misinformation online? Self-perceived media literacy and the moderating role of reflective judgment
Authors: Borah Porismita , Lorenzano Kyle John
Published: December 2023

Purpose

Purpose: The main purpose of the study is to understand the factors that facilitate correction behavior among individuals. In this study the authors examine the impact of self-perceived media literacy (SPML) and reflection on participants’ correction behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Methods: Data for the study were collected from Amazon's MTurk using an online survey. Data were collected after a certificate of exemption was received by the Institutional Review Board in a research university in the United States (US) Qualtrics software was used to collect data. The total number of participants was 797.

Findings

Findings: The findings show that although both SPML and reflection are positively associated with rumor refutation, higher SPML alone is not enough. Reflective judgment is critical for individuals to take part in this behavior online, such that individuals with higher reflective judgment indicated that they refute rumors online, irrespective of their SPML score.

Originality/value

Originality: The authors tested the relationship of multiple variables with participants correction behavior. Although research shows the importance of social correction, there is not much knowledge about what facilitates actual misinformation correction.
Pivoting a PDS program to working with employed interns: a case study in continuing organizational change
Authors: Letizia Angelo Joseph
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The methods and procedures in which teachers are trained and supported are rapidly changing. While the COVID-19 pandemic undoubtedly disrupted education and exacerbated a growing teacher shortage, these problems are not new, they stretch back decades and are the result of underfunding and political machinations among many other factors. This paper is a case study of a small private university and how it transitioned to supporting employed interns and providing on-the-job-training and support for these types of interns in this volatile time for teacher education and preparation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a case study. The paper chronicles how the initial certification department within a larger school of education was able to transition to meeting the needs of employed interns and supporting them.

Findings

The most important findings for this case study/examination of practice, while not necessarily generalizable, were the creation of a culture, attention to implementation and the fostering of a learning organization.

Originality/value

The teacher shortage forced the university in this paper to change its offerings, assumptions and culture with regard to interns and their needs. While this was unique to one institution, other institutions are most likely in similar situations.
Globalization and shadow economy: a panel analysis for Africa
Authors: Ajide Folorunsho M. , Dada James T.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

The study's objective is to examine the relevance of globalization in affecting the size of the shadow economy in selected African nations.

Design/methodology/approach

To do this, the authors employ the KOF globalization index and implement both static and dynamic common correlated mean group estimators on a panel of 24 African nations from 1995–2017. This technique accommodates the issue of cross-sectional dependence, sample bias and endogenous regressors. Panel threshold analysis is also conducted to establish the nonlinearity between globalization and the shadow economy. To examine the causality between the variables, the study employs Dumitrescu and Hurlin's panel causality test.

Findings

The results show that globalization reduces the size of the shadow economy. The results of the nonlinear analysis suggest a U-shaped relationship. Overall globalization has a threshold impact of 48.837%, economic globalization has 45.615% and political globalization has 66.661% while social globalization has a threshold value of 35.744%. The results of the panel causality show that there is a bidirectional causality between the two variables.

Practical implications

The results suggest that the government and other relevant authorities need to introduce capital controls and other policy measures to moderate the degree of social, political and cultural diffusion. Appropriate policies should be formulated to monitor the extent of African economic openness to other continents to maximize the gains from globalization.

Originality/value

Apart from being the first study in the African region that evaluates the relevance of globalization in controlling the shadow economy, it also analyzes the dynamics and threshold analysis between the two variables using advanced panel econometrics which makes the study unique. The study suggests that globalization tools are useful for affecting the size of the shadow economy in Africa. This study provides fresh empirical evidence on the impact of globalization on the shadow economy in the case of Africa.
The spatio‐temporal influences of habitat heterogeneity on the community structure of avian feeding guilds in human‐dominated landscapes of the East African miombo woodlands
Authors: Kavana David J. , Mbije Nsajigwa , Sirilo Tecla M. , Bupamba Happiness C.
Published: December 2023

Habitat heterogeneity plays a vital ecological role in influencing community ecology dynamics. We evaluated the relationship between habitat heterogeneity and land‐use cover with avian community structure in the human‐dominated landscape of the Katavi‐Rukwa ecosystem in Tanzania. We used the fixed‐radius point count method to record birds in different habitats. We calculated the relative abundances and the Shannon‐Wiener diversity index of bird guilds across habitats as well as the Normalised Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) and estimated land‐use cover of the study area from Landsat 8 images. We grouped birds into five major guilds: Insectivore, Granivore, Omnivore, Carnivore and Nectarivore. Among the guilds, Insectivores, Omnivores, Nectarivores and Carnivores were positively correlated with an increase in NDVI, while Granivores were negatively correlated with an increase in NDVI. Among the habitats, woodland had high species diversity whereas riverine had low species diversity. Our findings highlight the importance of habitat heterogeneity in biodiversity conservation in human‐dominated landscapes, and we suggest implementing conservation in these landscapes.
More‐than‐human supremacy: Himalayan lessons on cosmopolitics
Authors: Bhan Mona , Govindrajan Radhika
Published: December 2023

How might our analysis of fascism be enriched if we turn our attention to how contemporary supremacist movements self‐fashion themselves as more‐than‐human formations? How is fascist politics naturalized through claims that it is fueled by the agency and vitality of not just humans but also other‐than‐humans? How do right‐wing supremacists’ assertions that theirs is an indigenous more‐than‐human politics that suffered but endured the violence of colonialism support the framing of fascism as a decolonizing project? In this article, we ground these questions in an ethnographic analysis of what we call the more‐than‐human turn in contemporary Hindu‐supremacist politics in the northwestern Himalayan region, focusing specifically on two political projects: the Hindu right‐wing's rediscovery of “ancient” Hindu rivers and communities in Ladakh and cow protection in Uttarakhand. In contrast to ontological anthropologists who suggest that cosmopolitics is plural and liberatory, we demonstrate how the inclusion of nonhuman entities in political life can serve to naturalize a fascist politics that seeks the extermination of those who are not part of the natural order of life. We urge anthropologists to make room for skepticism and critique in their analysis of cosmopolitical formations instead of prematurely celebrating “ecopolitics” as anti‐Western and anticolonial.
Syncopation as Probabilistic Expectation: Conceptual, Computational, and Experimental Evidence
Authors: Fram Noah R. , Berger Jonathan
Published: December 2023

Definitions of syncopation share two characteristics: the presence of a meter or analogous hierarchical rhythmic structure and a displacement or contradiction of that structure. These attributes are translated in terms of a Bayesian theory of syncopation, where the syncopation of a rhythm is inferred based on a hierarchical structure that is, in turn, learned from the ongoing musical stimulus. Several experiments tested its simplest possible implementation, with equally weighted priors associated with different meters and independence of auditory events, which can be decomposed into two terms representing note density and deviation from a metric hierarchy. A computational simulation demonstrated that extant measures of syncopation fall into two distinct factors analogous to the terms in the simple Bayesian model. Next, a series of behavioral experiments found that perceived syncopation is significantly related to both terms, offering support for the general Bayesian construction of syncopation. However, we also found that the prior expectations associated with different metric structures are not equal across meters and that there is an interaction between density and hierarchical deviation, implying that auditory events are not independent from each other. Together, these findings provide evidence that syncopation is a manifestation of a form of temporal expectation that can be directly represented in Bayesian terms and offer a complementary, feature‐driven approach to recent Bayesian models of temporal prediction.
Mobile learning frameworks and pedagogy: A systematic review
Authors: Parsons David , Palalas Aga , Nikou Stavros , Rodulfo Selwyn
Published: December 2023

This article provides a systematic review of mobile learning frameworks that address issues of pedagogy published between 2011 and 2022. The objective of the review was to gain a clear picture of recent developments in mobile learning frameworks to provide an understanding of current directions in mobile learning pedagogy. Eighteen peer‐reviewed journal articles that presented new mobile learning pedagogical frameworks were examined and evaluated based on the characteristics of each framework. The two main areas of analysis were the pedagogical approaches integrated into the frameworks and their definitions of mobile learning. We conclude that mobile learning frameworks have become more diverse over time, in many cases tending to focus on specific aspects of mobile learning rather than attempting to address overarching concepts. With respect to pedagogies and their underlying theories of learning, social constructivism, heutagogy, collaborative learning, experiential learning, inquiry‐based learning, and student‐centred learning were mentioned most frequently. However, although many frameworks make reference to pedagogy, there is limited analysis of how mobile learning pedagogy might be defined as distinct from other contexts of learning. The key characteristics of mobile learning, consistent through most of the reviewed frameworks, comprise the portability of mobile devices across multiple contexts, connectivity, and accessibility, as well as learner‐centredness (including personalisation and self‐regulation). One key aspect of identifying the uniqueness and future potential of mobile learning is the special affordances addressed by mobile learning theory. We conclude that this is an area where further research is required.
Different immortalized keratinocyte cell lines display distinct capabilities to differentiate and reconstitute an epidermis in vitro
Authors: Jahn Magdalena , Lang Victoria , Diehl Sandra , Back Robin , Kaufmann Roland , Fauth Torsten , Buerger Claudia
Published: December 2023

Dermatological research relies on the availability of suitable models that most accurately reflect the in vivo situation. Primary keratinocytes obtained from skin reduction surgeries are not only limited by availability but have a short lifespan and show donor‐specific variations, which hamper the understanding of general mechanisms. The spontaneously immortalized keratinocyte cell line HaCaT displays chromosomal aberrations and is known to differentiate in an abnormal manner. To overcome these issues, we validated different engineered immortalized cell lines created from primary human keratinocytes (NHK) as model systems to study epidermal function. Cell lines either immortalized by the expression of SV40 large T antigen and hTERT (NHK‐SV/TERT) or by transduction with HPV E6/E7 (NHK‐E6/E7) were analysed for their growth and differentiation behaviour using 2D and 3D culture systems and compared to primary keratinocytes. Both cell lines displayed a robust proliferative behaviour but were still sensitive to contact inhibition. NHK‐E6/E7 could be driven into differentiation by Ca2+ switch, while NHK‐SV/TERT needed withdrawal from any proliferative signal to initiate a delayed onset of differentiation. In 3D epidermal models both cell lines were able to reconstitute a stratified epidermis and functional epidermal barrier. However, only NHK‐E6/E7 showed a degree of epidermal maturation and stratification that was comparable to primary keratinocytes.
Status of HIV and comorbidities in refugees with HIV from Ukraine
Authors: Ahrenstorf Gerrit , Dopfer‐Jablonka Alexandra , Joean Oana , Knuth Christine , Silchmueller Marc , Thiele Thea , Ringshausen Felix C. , Slevogt Hortense , Witte Torsten , Behrens Georg M. N.
Published: December 2023

Purpose

To describe the clinical characteristics of refugees with HIV from Ukraine that seek continuation of medical care in Germany.

Methods

Fourty‐six refugees with HIV that had left Ukraine between 24 February and 30 December 2022 were examined. Information on patients' history was obtained using a standardized questionnaire for clinical care. Interviews were conducted in Russian during their first clinical presentation.

Results

Fourty‐six persons (41 females and 5 males) were included and their mean age was 39.6 (±8.4) years. The mean time since HIV diagnosis was 8.0 (median, IQR 7.15) years and 70.3% of participants currently received tenfofovir‐DF, lamividine and dolutegravir. Most refugees had an undetectable HIV viral load and their current mean CD4 T cell count was 702 (SD ± 289) per μL. Serology revealed previous hepatitis B infection in 50.4% without evidence for replication, with undetectable anti‐hepatitis B surface antigen in the remaining refugees. Antibodies against hepatitis C were present in 23 refugees (50%), but only 10 patients had been diagnosed with hepatitis C previously. Five refugees had undergone successful antiviral treatment for hepatitis C. Detectable HCV‐RNA was evident in nine patients (19.6%). Sixteen (38.6%) refugees had a positive tuberculosis (TB) interferon gamma release assay, and four were on TB treatment for previously diagnosed infection. One had been diagnosed with multidrug‐resistant (MDR) TB, two with pre‐extensively drug‐resistant (pre‐XDR) TB and two with XDR TB and were treated with combinations of second‐line and novel agents according to WHO guidelines.

Conclusions

Based on this preliminary analysis of a not fully representative cohort, refugees with HIV from Ukraine were young, mostly healthy females highly adherent to antiretroviral therapy. The rate of transmittable co‐infections urges early diagnostic evaluation and treatment.
Psychometric analysis of the Group Climate Inventory—Revised in adults with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning in a secure residential facility
Authors: Turhan A. , Roest J. J. , Delforterie M. J. , Van der Helm G. H. P. , Neimeijer E. G. , Didden R.
Published: December 2023

Background

In secure residential facilities, group climate perceptions of clients with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning are systematically assessed for quality improvement. A valid and reliable measure may ensure that this process is consistent. The Group Climate Inventory—Revised (GCI‐R) is a new measure to assess group climate perceptions.

Method

Confirmatory factor analysis was conducted in 148 adult clients (79% male) with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning in a secure facility to examine internal structure validity and internal consistency reliability of the GCI‐R.

Results

The results indicate support for the five‐factor structure of the GCI‐R (‘Support’, ‘Growth’, ‘Repression’, ‘Peer interactions’, and ‘Physical environment’). The internal consistency reliability of its scales ranged from acceptable to good (α: .72–.87; ω: .76–.86).

Conclusion

The GCI‐R demonstrates evidence of psychometric adequacy when applied to adult clients with mild intellectual disability or borderline intellectual functioning in secure residential facilities.
Correlation between computed tomography and histological evaluation of nodal metastasis in dogs with mast cell tumours
Authors: Miyagi Hiroshi , Townsend Katy L. , Ettinger Alyssa Michael , Russell Duncan S. , Colee James C. , Newsom Lauren Elizabeth
Published: December 2023

Early diagnosis of nodal metastasis has been shown to impact prognosis for dogs with mast cell tumours (MCT). The objective of this retrospective study was to determine the correlation between computed tomographic characteristics of lymph nodes and histologic nodal metastasis using the HN classification system, in dogs with cutaneous or subcutaneous MCT and regional lymph node(s) removal. Dogs that had removal of MCT and regional lymphadenectomy within 31 days of the initial staging computed tomography (CT) were enrolled. Subjective lymph node characteristics used included margination, loss of fat at hilus, shape of margin, perinodal fat pattern, increase in number of nodes, and pre‐ and post‐contrast heterogeneity. Enhancement, heterogeneity, and short‐long axis ratio were calculated. Seventy‐one lymph nodes from 37 dogs were included. Generalised linear mixed model of assessment of lymph node was performed twice, with binary outcome [non‐metastatic (HN0/1) versus metastatic (HN2/3)] and 4‐point scales (HN0–HN3). After blind assessment of 7 characteristics described above, a final subjective interpretation of each lymph node as non‐metastatic or metastatic was assigned. A significant correlation was found between final interpretation and prediction of metastasis. Higher HN classification was also significantly correlated with the increased number of nodes and pre‐ and post‐contrast heterogeneity. No correlation was found in short‐long axis ratio, calculated heterogeneity, or degree of enhancement. Sensitivity of CT was 35.7%, specificity was 96.6%, and accuracy was 60.5% for nodal metastasis. CT alone cannot be recommended for assessment of metastasis. The use of multiple computed tomographic characteristics may increase accuracy of nodal metastasis detection.
Local–global divisibility on algebraic tori
Authors: Alessandrì Jessica , Chirivì Rocco , Paladino Laura
Published: December 2023

We give a complete answer to the local–global divisibility problem for algebraic tori. In particular, we prove that given an odd prime , if is an algebraic torus of dimension defined over a number field , then the local–global divisibility by any power holds for . We also show that this bound on the dimension is best possible, by providing a counterexample for every dimension . Finally, we prove that under certain hypotheses on the number field generated by the coordinates of the ‐torsion points of , the local–global divisibility still holds for tori of dimension less than .
Thermo-Hydraulic Characteristics Evaluation of a Triangular Solar Air Heater Duct Having Transverse Ribs With Gaps: An Experimental Study
Authors: Mahanand Yadaba , Senapati Jnana Ranjan
Published: December 2023

An experimental investigation is carried out to analyze the thermo-hydraulic characteristics of a triangular solar air heater duct having transverse ribs with gaps. The roughness parameters, such as non-dimensional pitch (P/e or P¯) and non-dimensional height (e/Dh or e¯) are kept in the range of 4.88–20 and 0.021–0.044, respectively. Reynolds number (Re) is kept in the range of 4000–18,000. Two and three gaps of each of 0.01 m are provided to each odd and even number ribs, respectively. Non-dimensional primary width (w1/W) and non-dimensional secondary width (w2/W) are kept constant at 0.29 and 0.4, respectively. A maximum heat transmission of 3.14 times that of the base model is achieved for the transverse ribs with gaps having non-dimensional pitch and height of 9.76 and 0.044, respectively, at Re = 18,000. In the parametric range, the highest friction factor of 3.88 times the base model is encountered for the non-dimensional pitch and height of 4.88 and 0.044, respectively, at Re = 4000. The highest thermal enhancement ratio of 2.31 is reported for the non-dimensional pitch and height of 9.76 and 0.044, respectively, at Re = 18,000. The correlation for the Nusselt number and friction factor is formulated, agreeing with experimental data within ±12% and ±8% deviation, respectively.