bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Asymmetry of acto-myosin cortices as active fluids shape cells in organoids
Authors: Guyomar Tristan , Lu Linjie , Hiraiwa Tetsuya , Riveline Daniel
Published: August 2024

Cell cortex is a thin sheet of actin cytoskeleton spanning cell boundaries with rich out-ofequilibrium dynamics. A theoretical description of the cortex as an active fluid enables to capture cell shapes dynamics in 3D tissues. However models integrated with calibration of parameters and quantitative experiments are lacking so far. Here we report that cells in organoids and in cysts have conserved apico-basal-lateral asymmetric compositions in actin and in myosin, and we quantify their densities and mechanical properties. This allows to calibrate a new model coupling active fluids with a phase field which reproduces the main features of cell shapes. To test our approach, we successfully predict changes in cell shapes by modulating actin polymerisation in experiments and in simulations. Our study shows how active fluid theory integrated with experiments can determine cell shapes in 3D tissues.
The long-range gene regulatory landscape of cerebellar granule neuron progenitors
Authors: Riegman Kimberley L. H. , George Charlotte , Whittaker Danielle E. , Ahmed Mohi U. , Yun Haiyang , Huntly Brian J. P. , Sims David , Osborne Cameron S. , Basson M. Albert
Published: August 2024

Neuronal specification, expansion and differentiation are tightly regulated by the concerted actions of transcription and chromatin modifying factors that are recruited to regulatory elements in the genome. Tissue-specific distal regulatory elements are typically located tens to hundreds of kilobases from the gene they regulate. To identify the distal enhancers that directly regulate a gene, information on the localisation of enhancers relative to the gene promoter in the nucleus is crucial. Cerebellar granule cell progenitors (GCps) are important transit amplifying neuronal progenitors, giving rise to the most abundant neuronal cell type in the brain. Many of the key factors that regulate fundamental developmental processes in GCps have been identified. For instance, the proneural transcription factor Atoh1 is essential for GCp specification, proliferation and differentiation and the ATP-dependent chromatin remodeller CHD7 is necessary for normal GCp proliferation and differentiation. However, both these factors are recruited to distal regulatory elements and the direct regulatory relationships between these factors, the enhancers they are recruited to, and the genes they regulate in GCps remain uncharacterised. To identify active, long-range gene regulatory interactions in GCps, we used promoter capture Hi-C (pcHi-C), together with ATAC-seq and ChIP-seq data. We present a rich dataset consisting of 46,428 interactions between 22,797 putative distal regulatory regions and 12,905 protein coding gene promoters in primary mouse GCps. Using VISTA-designated hindbrain enhancers as an example, we show that 80% of these enhancers are incorrectly annotated at present and identify the genes most likely regulated directly by these enhancers. Motif enrichment analyses showed a significant enrichment of proneural transcription factor motifs in CHD7-regulated enhancers. Further analyses revealed co-localisation of Atoh1 and CHD7 at gene enhancers, suggesting a novel regulatory relationship between Atoh1 and CHD7 in controlling the expression of key genes in the GCp lineage. We used our data to identify >1,500 Atoh-regulated enhancers, controlling the expression of 577 genes in GCps, and 197 enhancers of 22 genes that appear to be co-regulated by Atoh1 and CHD7. Co-immunoprecipitation experiments showed that Atoh1 and CHD7 interacted with each other. These findings support the emerging picture of CHD7 as an important gene regulatory co-factor for lineage-specific transcription factors. The pcHi-C data is presented as a useful resource to the community for investigating the function of long-range enhancers in the cerebellar GCp lineage.
Dlk1 is a novel adrenocortical stem/progenitor cell marker that predicts malignancy in adrenocortical carcinoma
Authors: Mariniello Katia , Pittaway James F.H. , Altieri Barbara , Borges Kleiton Silva , Hadjidemetriou Irene , Ribeiro Claudio , Ruiz-Babot Gerard , Lim Jiang A. , Foster Julie , Cleaver Julie , Sosabowski Jane , Rahman Nafis , Doroszko Milena , Hantel Constanze , Sigala Sandra , Abate Andrea , Tamburello Mariangela , Kiseljak-Vassiliades Katja , Wierman Margaret , Parvanta Laila , Abdel-Aziz Tarek E. , Chung Teng-Teng , Marco Aimee Di , Palazzo Fausto , Gomez-Sanchez Celso E. , Taylor David R. , Rayner Oliver , Ronchi Cristina L. , Gaston-Massuet Carles , Sbiera Silviu , Drake William M. , Rognoni Emanuel , Kroiss Matthias , Breault David T. , Fassnacht Martin , Guasti Leonardo
Published: August 2024

Disruption of processes involved in tissue development and homeostatic self-renewal is increasingly implicated in cancer initiation, progression, and recurrence. The adrenal cortex is a dynamic tissue that undergoes life-long turnover. Here, using genetic fate mapping and murine adrenocortical carcinoma (ACC) models, we have identified a population of adrenocortical stem cells that express delta-like non-canonical Notch ligand 1 (DLK1). These cells are active during development, near dormant postnatally but are re-expressed in ACC. In a study of over 200 human ACC samples, we have shown DLK1 expression is ubiquitous and is an independent prognostic marker of recurrence-free survival. Paradoxically, despite its progenitor role, spatial transcriptomic analysis has identified DLK1 expressing cell populations to have increased steroidogenic potential in human ACC, a finding also observed in four human and one murine ACC cell lines. Finally, the cleavable DLK1 ectodomain is measurable in patients’ serum and can discriminate between ACC and other adrenal pathologies with high sensitivity and specificity to aid in diagnosis and follow-up of ACC patients. These data demonstrate a prognostic role for DLK1 in ACC, detail its hierarchical expression in homeostasis and oncogenic transformation and propose a role for its use as a biomarker in this malignancy.

Graphical abstract

Statement of significance

This study presents DLK1 as a novel biomarker in ACC with opportunities for use in the diagnosis, prognosis and longitudinal follow up of patients. DLK1, a marker of adrenocortical stem cells, is re-expressed in ACC, is measurable in patients’ serum and is associated with increased malignancy.
An old dog with new tricks: TFEB promotes syncytin expression and cell fusion in the human placenta
Authors: Renaud Stephen J.
Published: August 2024

In the human placenta, cell fusion is crucial for forming the syncytiotrophoblast, a multinucleated giant cell essential for maintaining pregnancy and ensuring fetal health. The formation of the syncytiotrophoblast is catalyzed by the evolutionarily modern fusogens syncytin-1 and syncytin-2. In this issue ofGenes & Development, Esbin and colleagues (doi:10.1101/gad.351633.124) reveal a critical role for the transcription factor TFEB in the regulation of syncytin expression and the promotion of trophoblast fusion. Notably, TFEB's pro-fusion role operates independently of its well-known functions in lysosome biogenesis and autophagy, suggesting that TFEB has acquired additional functions to promote cell fusion in the human placenta.
Interacting crystalline topological insulators in two-dimensions with time-reversal symmetry
Authors: Soldini Martina O. , Aksoy Ömer M. , Neupert Titus
Published: August 2024

Topology is routinely used to understand the physics of electronic insulators. However, for strongly interacting electronic matter, such as Mott insulators, a comprehensive topological characterization is still lacking. When their ground state only contains short-range entanglement and does not break symmetries spontaneously, they generically realize crystalline fermionic symmetry-protected topological phases (cFSPTs), supporting gapless modes at the boundaries or at the lattice defects. Here, we provide an exhaustive classification of cFSPTs in two dimensions with U(1) charge-conservation and spinful time-reversal symmetries, namely, those generically present in spin-orbit coupled insulators, for any of the 17 wallpaper groups. It has been shown that the classification of cFSPTs can be understood from appropriate real-space decorations of lower-dimensional subspaces, and we expose how these relate to the Wyckoff positions of the lattice. We find that all nontrivial one-dimensional decorations require electronic interactions. Furthermore, we provide model Hamiltonians for various decorations, and discuss the signatures of cFSPTs. This classification paves the way to further explore topological interacting insulators, providing the backbone information in generic model systems and ultimately in experiments.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Efficient computation by molecular competition networks
Authors: Cai Haoxiao , Zhang Xiaoran , Qiao Rong , Wang Xiaowo , Wei Lei
Published: August 2024

Most biomolecular systems exhibit computation abilities, which are often achieved through complex networks such as signal transduction networks. Particularly, molecular competition in these networks can introduce crosstalk and serve as a hidden layer for cellular information processing. Despite the increasing evidence of competition contributing to efficient cellular computation, how this occurs and the extent of computational capacity it confers remain elusive. In this study, we introduced a mathematical model for molecular competition networks (MCNs) and employed a machine learning-based optimization method to explore their computational capacity. Our findings revealed that MCNs, when compared to their noncompetitive counterparts, demonstrate superior performance in both discrete decision-making and analog computation tasks. Furthermore, we highlighted the nonnegligible role of weak interactions and limited amounts of resources and examined how biological constraints influence the computational capacity of MCNs. The study suggested the potential of MCNs as efficient computational structures and provided new insights into cellular information processing.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Cooperative mission planning based on game theory for UAVs and USVs heterogeneous system in dynamic scenario
Authors: Long Hong , Duan Haibin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present and implement a task allocation method based on game theory for reconnaissance mission planning of UAVs and USVs system.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the decision-making framework via game theory of mission planning is constructed. The mission planning of UAVs–USVs is transformed into a potential game optimization problem by introducing a minimum weight vertex cover model. The modified population-based game-theoretic optimizer (MPGTO) is used to improve the efficiency of solving this complex multi-constraint assignment problem.

Findings

Several simulations are carried out to exhibit that the proposed algorithm obtains the superiority on quality and efficiency of mission planning solutions to some existing approaches.

Research limitations/implications

Several simulations are carried out to exhibit that the proposed algorithm obtains the superiority on quality and efficiency of mission planning solutions to some existing approaches.

Practical implications

The proposed framework and algorithm are expected to be applied to complex real scenarios with uncertain targets and heterogeneity.

Originality/value

The decision framework via game theory is proposed for the mission planning problem of UAVs–USVs and a MPGTO with swarm evolution, and the adaptive iteration mechanism is presented for ensuring the efficiency and quality of the solution.
The complexity of ECF investors’ peer-effect: a test of structural social influence theory by fsQCA approach
Authors: Ling Li , Peng Ling
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the causal complexity of ECF investors’ peer effect through two different paths of structural social influence.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) approach, we employ 157 samples from a Chinese ECF source to explore how peer-effect are caused by both informational and normative mechanisms.

Findings

The findings suggests that there are multiple configurations could lead to ECF investors’ high level peer-effect through both informational and normative mechanisms, and the informational mechanism' role depends on the normative mechanism, while the normative mechanism could lead to peer-effect independently.

Research limitations/implications

The findings enrich the literature on ECF investors’ behaviors by revealing the diverse configurations resulting in investors’ peer-effect and shedding new light on investigating the decision-making driven by information asymmetry and relationship settings for individuals at a disadvantage.

Originality/value

This is the first study that investigates the multiple-driven of ECF investors’ decision-making and the importance of mutual norms in individuals' decision-making by complex network analysis approach and qualitative comparative analysis from the perspective of complexity. The results reveal the complexity of investors’ decision-making in ECF.
Sustainability as guiding principle of communicative action the transformative and transformational potential of corporate sustainability communication as niche construction, a case from the energy sector
Authors: Weder Franzisca
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper expands on existing analyses of corporate energy and sustainability communication and shows the potential of evolutionary theory to study and conceptualize sustainable corporate communication as niche construction and its transformative and transformational potential.

Design/methodology/approach

With a qualitative content analysis of non-financial reporting of energy corporations and a deep dive into one selected case (Yin, 2013) with a two-step categorization of the sustainability related text and (n = 5) expert interviews (QCAmap, Mayring, 2019; Fenzl and Mayring, 2017), the paper reflects on alterations within the organization and in the organization–stakeholder relationships through corporate sustainability communication.

Findings

The analytical deep dive into one case of corporate sustainability communication of a multinational energy corporation shows the difference between a transformative and transformational character of corporate communication. The insights from the interviews support the assumption that corporates not only adapt to changes of environmental factors (perturbative communication) but also – however rarely – alter their spatiotemporal relationships with their external environment (relocational communication), so there is a lack of actual transformational communication.

Originality/value

Corporates in the (renewable) energy sector as well as industry networks like gas (infrastructure) suppliers have the potential to impact their environment (stakeholder, energy communities, etc.), change cultural patterns and norms and co-construct new socio-ecological niches through communication. The study presented gives evidence and examples for transformative corporate sustainability communication. On a conceptual level, it offers an innovative framework to understand sustainability as a guiding principle for corporate communication that will stimulate corporate communication research in the future.
Novel airfoil for improved supersonic aerodynamic performance
Authors: Manaa Zeyad M. , Qasem Naef A.A.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to validate the linear flow theory with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations and to propose a novel shape for the airfoil that will improve supersonic aerodynamic performance compared to the National Advisory Committee for Aeronautics (NACA) 64a210 airfoil.

Design/methodology/approach

To design the new airfoil shape, this study uses a convex optimization approach to obtain a global optimal shape for an airfoil. First, modeling is conducted using linear flow theory, and then numerical verification is done by CFD simulations using ANSYS Fluent. The optimization process ensures that the new airfoil maintains the same cross-sectional area and thickness as the NACA 64a210 airfoil. This study found that an efficient way to obtain the ideal airfoil shape is by using linear flow theory, and the numerical simulations supported the assumptions inherent in the linear flow theory.

Findings

This study’s findings show notable improvements (from 4% to 200%) in the aerodynamic performance of the airfoil, especially in the supersonic range, which points to the suggested airfoil as a potential option for several fighter aircraft. Under various supersonic conditions, the optimized airfoil exhibits improved lift-over-drag ratios, leading to improved flight performance and lower fuel consumption.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted mainly for supersonic flow, whereas the subsonic flow is tested for a Mach number of 0.7. This study would be extended for both subsonic and supersonic flights.

Practical implications

Convex optimization and linear flow theory are combined in this work to create an airfoil that performs better in supersonic conditions than the NACA 64a210. By closely matching the CFD results, the linear flow theory's robustness is confirmed. This means that the initial design phase no longer requires extensive CFD simulations, and the linear flow theory can be used quickly and efficiently to obtain optimal airfoil shapes.

Social implications

The proposed airfoil can be used in different fighter aircraft to enhance performance and reduce fuel consumption. Thus, lower carbon emission is expected.

Originality/value

The unique aspect of this work is how convex optimization and linear flow theory were combined to create an airfoil that performs better in supersonic conditions than the NACA 64a210. Comprehensive CFD simulations were used for validation, highlighting the optimization approach's strength and usefulness in aerospace engineering.
Sociodemographic and institutional factors as determinants of access to food among rural households during COVID-19 pandemic in India
Authors: Ali Jabir , Khan Waseem
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the nature, magnitude and determinants of access to food among rural households in India during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the World Bank’s Rural Impact Survey, which has documented the shocks of COVID-19 among 2,787 rural households across six states in India. The chi-square test and binary logistics regression have been used to analyze the data.

Findings

About 49.7 % of rural households have reported the incidence of food inaccessibility and shortage, and the majority of them reported a reduction in food intake during the COVID-19 outbreak. However, the magnitude of food accessibility varied across the states and the sociodemographic characteristics of the households. Furthermore, regression analysis indicates that family size, social category and occupation as sociodemographic variables and membership in self-help groups, wage employment under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act and Cash transfer under Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi and Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana as institutional support factors have a significant effect on access to food among rural households.

Practical implications

The findings of the study have far-reaching policy implications for developing an effective food distribution system in crisis situations like the COVID-19 outbreak. The study also provides directions for extending the research on determinants of access to food during crisis.

Originality/value

The study is based on a large survey data from the rural households in India and provides empirical evidence on access to food faced by rural communities during the COVID-19 lockdown.
The growth of FinTech and blockchain technology in developing countries: UAE’s evidence
Authors: Al-Qudah Anas Ali , Al-Okaily Manaf , Yadav Miklesh Prasad Prasad
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the continuous intention to use blockchain and FinTech innovations, focusing on the direct impact of user trust and perceived risks. It seeks to test how information technology (IT) quality directly affects user-perceived risk and trust and to identify how IT quality can influence FinTech continuance intentions. By examining these relationships, the study provides insights into how improvements in IT quality can mitigate perceived risks and enhance user trust, ultimately fostering sustained use of FinTech and blockchain technologies.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the purpose of this study, the model and hypotheses were examined based on the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

Results revealed that perceived risk is negatively impacted by system quality, while trust is positively impacted by information quality, and the most significant result in the study is continuous-use intention and uncertainty both are impacted by service quality. Also, the study used some control variables, and two of them (i.e. FinTech type and education) showed a positive significant relationship with continuance-use intention.

Practical implications

This study identifies several causal relationships between the continuance-use intention of blockchain and FinTech innovations and various factors, which can provide valuable insights for managers, enabling them to formulate appropriate strategies to foster sustainable growth in FinTech and blockchain. By leveraging these findings, managers can enhance IT quality, reduce perceived risks and build user trust, thereby promoting the ongoing adoption and success of blockchain and FinTech innovations.

Originality/value

The outcomes obtained will help both FinTech providers and researchers elucidate and understand the situation of users’ concerns about the unexpected risks/uncertainty in FinTech transactions can be mitigated through providing a high level of quality IT service and systems. Two main strategies can be merged to be used by FinTech providers/managers, first: trust building, second: risk-mitigating, both strategies can be used in the light of IT innovation and its aspects to meet the sustainable growth of FinTech.
Local community's engagement and enactment of social value from hydropower infrastructure
Authors: Caron Marie-Andrée , Drouin Nathalie , Ben Abdallah Skander , Radu Camélia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Social needs of local community are highly essential in the context of public infrastructure and have an impact on their performance. This paper explores the local community subjectivity in interaction with primary stakeholders to deepen our understanding of social value and this category of misunderstood stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a partnership framework that aims to help stakeholders be reflexive and construct knowledge about social value of the infrastructure. The empirical material includes an extensive review of the public infrastructure documents published between 1981 and 2021 and 13 interviews with key members of local community.

Findings

The main contribution of this study is an integrated model to study the social value of an infrastructure and a dynamic approach to study how a local community engages and enacts social value. The dynamic approach highlights three plans of stakeholder’s subjectivity, which are relational, representational and operational plans to promote inclusive stakeholder’s management (“of” and “for”).

Originality/value

The study combines an analytical and a theoretical framework to investigate the enactment of social value.
Examining the moderating role of technological resources on marketing innovation and family business sustainability
Authors: Affran Samuel , Oppong Emma Doreen Otiwaa , Kolug Joseph Yenabil
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Family businesses are on the rise and facing severe sustainability challenges. The overall purpose of this thesis is to examine the moderating role of technological resources in the relationship between marketing innovation and family business sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

From a post-positivist perspective, this study utilized a quantitative approach and causal research design. 204 family businesses within the Accra Metropolitan Assembly were sampled for this study. Structural Equation Modeling (SMART PLS 4) was utilized for data analysis after a closed-ended questionnaire was used to gather data.

Findings

It was evidenced that marketing innovation has a positive significant effect on family business sustainability. Technological resources have a negative significant moderating effect on the relationship between marketing innovation and family business sustainability.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in examining the moderating effect of technological resources on the relationship between marketing innovation and family business sustainability in Ghana, where this phenomenon is less explored.
Understanding the shift: contextual determinants of classic and alternative servitisation trajectories
Authors: Bagni Gustavo , Godinho Filho Moacir
Published: August 2024

Purpose

While servitization has been recognised for its potential to augment organizational revenue and fortify competitive advantage, the exploration of alternative servitization trajectories to the classical servitization model has been little explored in literature. Recent literature introduces the “service paradox” and presents different trajectories to the classical model, but it does not explain why a company chooses one trajectory instead of another. Therefore, this study aims to provide a model that, based on the contextual factors present, recommends which servitization trajectory the company should choose.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a combination of design science research (DSR) and context, intervention, mechanisms and outcomes (CIMO) to propose the model. An initial contextual factors list was created based on the literature, refined by the company’s employees and evaluated in three selected initiatives in the focal company. Furthermore, based on the understanding of the CIMO logic elements, four design propositions were elaborated to summarize the main findings of the study.

Findings

The study has demonstrated that the choice of a servitisation trajectory is intricately tied to a multitude of contextual factors, prompting organisations to deviate from conventional models towards alternative paths. Furthermore, the research sheds light on the underlying mechanisms and contextual drivers that shape servitisation decisions within the context of a consumer goods manufacturer. The analysis underscores the pivotal role of market dynamics and strategic adaptability in shaping servitisation strategies, underscoring the importance of customized approaches that cater to the distinct circumstances of each organisations.

Originality/value

The research contributes to both theory and practice by offering profound insights into the complex nature of servitisation, advocating for continuous adaptation and strategic alignment with market demands. For practitioners and decision-makers, the study provides valuable guidance on enhancing service offerings and navigating the complexities of servitisation within specific sectors, fostering a culture of learning and adaptation to drive sustainable growth.
“Unless you’ve got a conviction, there’s not much you can do”: Rethinking long-term disruption and exit strategy in RASSO investigations
Authors: Allen Katherine , Khan Aneela , Horvath Miranda A.H. , Davies Kari
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate how five Operation Soteria Bluestone (OSB) participating forces integrated principles of procedural justice and proactive disruption of offending into their investigations, specifically during the closing stages of a case when considering exit strategy and longer-term prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods approach was taken, including 32 semi-structured interviews with officers and 59 case reviews of recent rape and serious sexual offences (RASSO). Data analysis methods included qualitative thematic analysis of interviews, while data from reviewed case logs was extracted and analysed using a bespoke case review tool.

Findings

Increased workloads, preparation of evidence and relational/communication difficulties with the crown prosecution service (CPS) were identified as barriers to implementing long-term disruption options. Dedicated resourcing, training and support are needed to promote suspect-focused investigative strategy and wider uptake of long-term disruption methods. Early investigative approach was also found to have “snowball” effects on suspect exit strategy, with initial lack of suspect focus and preoccupation with victim credibility, impeding consideration of long-term disruption and safeguarding options. Findings also point to a disparity between promising practice in relation to procedural justice for victims and (a relative lack of) proactive policing of repeat suspects.

Originality/value

The study represents a novel contribution to research on policing RASSO, illustrating the scale and nature of the obstacles to changing how these offences are investigated, even when under intense scrutiny from policy makers. It also highlights how increased organisational investment and support is linked to positive changes in practice in some forces.
The absorptive capacity of the institution in the link between remittances and financial development in Africa: an advance panel regression
Authors: Dada James Temitope , Awoleye Emmanuel Olayemi , Al-Faryan Mamdouh Abdulaziz Saleh , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine institutional quality’s absorptive capacity in African countries’ remittances-finance nexus.

Design/methodology/approach

A balanced panel data set of thirty African countries between 2000 and 2022 is used for the study. The study adopts an augmented mean group (AMG), method of moment quantile regression (MMQR) and two-step system generalized method of moment (2SGMM) as the estimation techniques due to the nature of the data set.

Findings

The findings of the direct effect reveal that remittances do not constitute the growth of financial development, while institutional quality promotes the growth of financial development in the long. The moderating effect of institutional quality in the linkages shows that the interactive term of institutional quality and remittances has a significant positive effect on financial development in the region. Hence, institutional quality moderates the impact of remittances. These results are robust to different proxies of financial development and estimates obtained from MMQR and 2SGMM.

Practical implications

This study, therefore, suggests that institutional quality is essential in the linkages between remittances and financial development. Hence, remittances should be seen as one of the instruments that can be used to develop the financial sector rather than survival mechanisms for households.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by unearthing the absorptive capacity of institutional quality in the nexus between remittances and financial development in African countries, which extant studies have neglected.
Service robots in hospitality: a cognitive appraisal perspective on job insecurity, turnover intentions, and generational differences
Authors: Horpynich Halyna , Mistry Trishna G. , Dogan Seden
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Grounded in the cognitive appraisal theory, this paper aims to investigate how employees cognitively evaluate and respond to the introduction of service robots, with a particular focus on generational differences.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from hospitality employees across different generations in the USA, and 279 responses were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicate negative service robot awareness and perceived risk significantly contribute to increased turnover intentions, with job insecurity mediating these associations. Notably, Generation Z employees exhibit distinct attitudes toward service robots compared to older generations, indicating a varying response pattern across different generational cohorts.

Practical implications

Organizations operating in the hospitality industry can use these findings to tailor interventions aimed at addressing concerns related to job insecurity and turnover intentions arising from the integration of service robots. Recognizing the diverse perspectives among different generational groups, organizations can implement targeted approaches to ensure a smoother transition and enhance employee acceptance of service robot technologies.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by shedding light on the nuanced interplay between employees’ cognitive evaluations, generational differences and the introduction of service robots in the hospitality sector. The insights generated offer valuable guidance for both academics and industry practitioners, facilitating the development of strategies to foster a mutually beneficial integration of service robots into the workforce.
Work from home feasibility and challenges for public sector employees in a developing country
Authors: Mousa Mohamed , Arslan Ahmad , Ullah Aman , Tarba Shlomo , Cooper Cary
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Drawing on work from home (WFH), job demand-control and street-level bureaucracy literature streams, this paper specifically focuses on the emerging trend of WFH for public sector employees in a developing country context of Egypt.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical sample comprises focus group discussions with a total of 40 public sector employees in Egypt. Thematic analysis was subsequently used on focus group discussion transcripts to bring out main themes linked to this topic.

Findings

Our findings show that employee (marginal discretion power, pharaonism, corruption), citizen (unfamiliarity with digital services) and country (lack of proper info-structure, overstaffing in the public sector)- level challenges hinder and/or slow down the potential for WFH in Egyptian public sector.

Practical implications

A major implication of our paper relates to highlighting the criticality of e-governance and WFH for public sector employees, as well as highlighting multilevel challenges associated with those. At the same time, socio-economic and political consequences of offering such options need to be considered in a country like Egypt where most public organisations are overstaffed, and those employees lack modern day employability skills. Hence, there needs to be an open debate in countries such as Egypt on the consequences of e-governance and WFH and whether it may facilitate delivering citizen services digitally. Also, high power distance culture plays a role in this context, and any change cannot be successful unless that specific aspect is confronted.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the emerging WFH literature by being one of the pioneering studies to offer a multilevel (micro, meso and macro) assessment of this phenomenon in the under-researched fragile developing country’s context.
The effect of virtual anchor appearance on purchase intention: a perceived warmth and competence perspective
Authors: Zhang Yuexian , Wang Xueying
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Although virtual anchors have emerged as potent marketing tools, their acceptance by consumers is controversial. Specifically, the relative efficacy of selecting an all-human-like or animal-human-like virtual anchor is not well-defined. However, anthropomorphic visual cues are vital in enhancing live streaming. This study aims to analyze the disparate effects of an animal-human-like or all-human-like virtual anchor on purchase intention as well as evaluate the possible underlying influential mechanisms and boundary conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, three different studies were carried out to elucidate the impact of virtual anchors on purchase intention. Study 1 evaluated the core impact of an animal-human-like and all-human-like virtual anchor on purchase intention, as well as the mediating role of perceived warmth and competence. Studies 2 and 3 were then performed to investigate the moderating impacts of product type and certainty of consumer needs, respectively. Furthermore, research data for these studies was collected using the Credamo tool and analyzed via SPSS, using PROCESS for moderation and mediation analyses.

Findings

The research findings indicate that virtual anchors can trigger purchase intention, with perceived warmth and competence acting as mediating factors. Based on the utilitarian products and high certainty of consumer needs, the influence of perceived competence on purchase intention is augmented. Therefore, an all-human-like virtual anchor increases purchase intention. In contrast, the impact of perceived warmth on purchase intention is supplemented for hedonic products and low certainty of consumer needs. Thus, an animal-human-like virtual anchor increases purchase intention.

Originality/value

This research study evaluated consumer reactions to all-human-like and animal-human-like virtual anchors for different product types and the certainty of consumer needs to optimize the comprehension of a virtual anchor. Furthermore, the assessment of the mediating roles of perceived warmth and competence provided valuable insights into the influential mechanisms by which virtual anchors affect purchase intention. Moreover, this study provided managerial implications to guide retailers and brands on the strategic adoption of virtual anchors to enhance purchase intention based on the product type and the certainty of consumer needs.
Mental health literacy of schizophrenia: a community sample representative
Authors: Digwamaje Lebogang , Tadi Ntsoaki Florence
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the mental health literacy of schizophrenia in a South African community sample. This study is part of the growing interest in community mental health literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 192 Black African participants from municipalities (Ditsobotla and Mahikeng) between 18 and 65 years participated in this study. Participants viewed fictional (male and female) sufferers of schizophrenia vignettes and responded to the same questions regarding each vignette. They completed a questionnaire examining the capacity to recognise schizophrenia as well as the capacity to source appropriate help.

Findings

For both vignettes, a substantial majority of participants indicated that older people believe that when a male is diagnosed with schizophrenia, the cause is traditional (spiritual). In contrast, more participants with lower education believed that medical reasons cause a female person’s diagnosis of schizophrenia.

Research limitations/implications

Overall, the study highlights the complexity of beliefs about the causes of schizophrenia. It underscores the importance of considering cultural and educational factors in mental health research, practice and policy development.

Practical implications

By uncovering the differences in perceptions between older individuals and those with lower education levels, the study sheds light on previously unexplored aspects of mental health literacy and cultural understanding of schizophrenia.

Social implications

While previous research has examined cultural beliefs about mental illness, this study specifically focuses on how age and education intersect with these beliefs, particularly regarding gender differences in diagnosis.

Originality/value

This unique approach contributes to the broader literature on mental health disparities. It has implications for tailored interventions and public health strategies aimed at addressing stigma and improving mental health outcomes in diverse populations.
Boundary layer analysis on magnetohydrodynamic dissipative Williamson nanofluid past over an exponentially stretched porous sheet by engaging OHAM
Authors: Sohail Muhammad , Rafique Esha , Abodayeh Kamaleldin
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This investigation delves into the rationale behind the preferential applicability of the non-Newtonian nanofluid model over alternative frameworks, particularly those incorporating porous medium considerations. The study focuses on analyzing the mass and heat transfer characteristics inherent in the Williamson nanofluid’s non-Newtonian flow over a stretched sheet, accounting for influences such as chemical reactions, viscous dissipation, magnetic field and slip velocity. Emphasis is placed on scenarios where the properties of the Williamson nanofluid, including thermal conductivity and viscosity, exhibit temperature-dependent variations.

Design/methodology/approach

Following the use of the OHAM approach, an analytical resolution to the proposed issue is provided. The findings are elucidated through the construction of graphical representations, illustrating the impact of diverse physical parameters on temperature, velocity and concentration profiles.

Findings

Remarkably, it is discerned that the magnetic field, viscous dissipation phenomena and slip velocity assumption significantly influence the heat and mass transmission processes. Numerical and theoretical outcomes exhibit a noteworthy level of qualitative concurrence, underscoring the robustness and reliability of the non-Newtonian nanofluid model in capturing the intricacies of the studied phenomena.

Originality/value

Available studies show that no work on the Williamson model is conducted by considering viscous dissipation and the MHD effect past over an exponentially stretched porous sheet. This contribution fills this gap.
Supply chain visibility and integration in the age of the Internet of Things: a retail perspective
Authors: Moleme Levi Orometswe , Omoruyi Osayuwamen , Quayson Matthew
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the use of the Internet of Things (IoT) in retail stores to improve supply chain visibility and integration.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employed a qualitative methodology with data collected using semi-structured interviews from a sample selected using purposive sampling. The population consists of 48 employees, of which 6 were selected for the sample as they worked directly with IoT and supply chain issues. Participants were from a SPAR franchise store (Samenwerken Profiteren Allen Regalmatig).

Findings

Thematic analysis was used to analyse the transcribed data from the interviews. The themes identified include supply chain visibility, supply chain integration and IoT. The findings indicate that the main IoT used is an organisational-wide system, the SIGMA (SPAR Integrated Goods Management Application) system. Other technologies that aid supply chain visibility and integration are geotags, the internet, WhatsApp social media applications, emails and scanners.

Practical implications

From the findings, this study recommends that IoT systems should be frequently updated to reflect current trends and that IoT systems should enable the integration of small and medium Enterprises (SMEs) suppliers.

Originality/value

The Fourth Industrial Revolution has ushered in new technologies that revolutionise business operations. Among these technologies is the IoT, which has ushered in a new connectivity area. However, there is little research on the use of IoT for supply chain visibility and integration in the South African retail sector. It provides sector-specific insights and recommendations for retailers, which might not be covered in general supply chain management literature.
Assessing age-friendliness of contemporary urban outdoor places in Estonia
Authors: Nutt Nele , Salmistu Sirle , Kupper Kristiina , Kotval Zenia
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how recently designed and built urban public spaces in Estonia address the concept of age-friendly environments and consider older adults as users of these spaces. This paper presents the evaluation of public spaces built as a result of urban design competitions in ten small towns of Estonia from 2014 until today.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explored and assessed how contemporary urban outdoor places meet the needs of older adults. For this purpose, this study developed an assessment instrument of age-friendly environment principles based on various sources and conducted fieldworks.

Findings

This study assumed that the needs of older adults were considered during the design competition and construction, as all towns of competition areas have a significant aging population. The findings suggest that various fundamental principles of universal or age-friendly design are not met, and there are areas of improvement in the inclusive design for all people that supports healthy aging.

Originality/value

This study can be used as improvement tool for current places in Estonia and basis for future design projects to make public places more age-friendly, specifically senior-friendly.
A multipopulation grasshopper algorithm for multiobjective material distribution scheduling problem of assembly line with flexible line inventory
Authors: Zhou Binghai , Wen Mingda
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Owing to the finite nature of the boundary of the line (BOL), the conventional method, involving the strong matching of single-variety parts with storage locations at the periphery of the line, proves insufficient for mixed-model assembly lines (MMAL). Consequently, this paper aims to introduce a material distribution scheduling problem considering the shared storage area (MDSPSSA). To address the inherent trade-off requirement of achieving both just-in-time efficiency and energy savings, a mathematical model is developed with the bi-objectives of minimizing line-side inventory and energy consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

A nondominated and multipopulation multiobjective grasshopper optimization algorithm (NM-MOGOA) is proposed to address the medium-to-large-scale problem associated with MDSPSSA. This algorithm combines elements from the grasshopper optimization algorithm and the nondominated sorting genetic algorithm-II. The multipopulation and coevolutionary strategy, chaotic mapping and two further optimization operators are used to enhance the overall solution quality.

Findings

Finally, the algorithm performance is evaluated by comparing NM-MOGOA with multi-objective grey wolf optimizer, multiobjective equilibrium optimizer and multi-objective atomic orbital search. The experimental findings substantiate the efficacy of NM-MOGOA, demonstrating its promise as a robust solution when confronted with the challenges posed by the MDSPSSA in MMALs.

Originality/value

The material distribution system devised in this paper takes into account the establishment of shared material storage areas between adjacent workstations. It permits the undifferentiated storage of various part types in fixed BOL areas. Concurrently, the innovative NM-MOGOA algorithm serves as the core of the system, supporting the formulation of scheduling plans.