bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dissipative stabilization of maximal entanglement between nonidentical emitters via two-photon excitation
Authors: Vivas-Viaña Alejandro , Martín-Cano Diego , Muñoz Carlos Sánchez
Published: October 2024

Two nonidentical quantum emitters, when placed within a cavity and coherently excited at the two-photon resonance, can reach stationary states of nearly maximal entanglement. In Vivas-Viaña, Martín-Cano, and Sánchez Muñoz [], we introduce a frequency-resolved Purcell effect stabilizing entangled W states among strongly interacting quantum emitters embedded in a cavity. Here we delve deeper into a specific configuration with a particularly rich phenomenology: two interacting quantum emitters under coherent excitation at the two-photon resonance. This scenario yields two resonant cavity frequencies where the combination of two-photon driving and Purcell-enhanced decay stabilizes the system into the subradiant and superradiant states, respectively. By considering the case of nondegenerate emitters and exploring the parameter space of the system, we show that this mechanism is merely one among a complex family of phenomena that can generate both stationary and metastable entanglement when driving the emitters at the two-photon resonance. We provide a global perspective of this landscape of mechanisms and contribute analytical characterizations and insights into these phenomena, establishing connections with previous reports in the literature and discussing how some of these effects can be optically detected.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Building rigid networks with prestress and selective pruning
Authors: Galvani Cunha Marco A. , Crocker John C. , Liu Andrea J.
Published: October 2024

Biopolymer networks from the intracellular to tissue scale display high rigidity and tensile stress while having coordinations well below the normal threshold for mechanical rigidity. The elastic filaments in these networks are often severed by enzymes in a tension-inhibited manner. The effects of such pruning on the mechanics of prestressed networks have not been studied. We show that networks pruned by a tension-inhibited method remain rigid at much lower coordinations than randomly pruned ones. These findings suggest a possible reason for the repeated evolution of tension-inhibited filament-severing proteins.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Mitochondrial Network Branching Enables Rapid Protein Spread with Slower Mitochondrial Dynamics
Authors: Chuphal Prabha , Lanctôt Jordan D. , Cornelius Sean P. , Brown Aidan I.
Published: October 2024

Mitochondrial network structure is controlled by the dynamical processes of fusion and fission, which merge and split mitochondrial tubes into structures including branches and loops. To investigate the impact of mitochondrial network dynamics and structure on the spread of proteins and other molecules through mitochondrial networks, we used stochastic simulations of two distinct quantitative models that each included mitochondrial fusion and fission, and particle diffusion via the network. Better-connected mitochondrial networks and networks with faster dynamics exhibit more rapid particle spread on the network, with little further improvement once a network has become well connected. As fragmented networks gradually become better connected, particle spread either steadily improves until the networks become well connected for slow-diffusing particles or plateaus for fast-diffusing particles. We compared model mitochondrial networks with both end-to-end and end-to-side fusion, which form branches, to nonbranching model networks that lack end-to-side fusion. To achieve the optimum (most rapid) spread that occurs on well-connected branching networks, nonbranching networks require much faster fusion and fission dynamics. Thus, the process of end-to-side fusion, which creates branches in mitochondrial networks, enables rapid spread of particles on the network with relatively slow fusion and fission dynamics. This modeling of protein spread on mitochondrial networks builds toward mechanistic understanding of how mitochondrial structure and dynamics regulate mitochondrial function.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Under the iceberg of “one-stop”: explore multi-actor engagement in one-stop digital cultural platforms through actor-network and commons theories
Authors: Rao Zixin , Liu Shuxian , Xiao Peng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the roles and interactions of various actors of one-stop digital culture platforms (ODCPs) by applying actor-network theory (ANT).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from focus group interviews with 19 participants and over 20 policy texts related to the digitization of cultural services in China. Utilizing ANT as the analytical framework, we employed the grounded theory to analyze the dataset.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that: (1) governments, cultural institutions, enterprises and users each play dual roles, contributing to the functionality and development of ODCPs; (2) introduces the theory of commons to reconceptualize ODCPs as commons, highlighting the need for collective management and shared responsibility in the governance of ODCPs.

Originality/value

This study identifies and elaborates on the different roles of stakeholders and addresses conceptual ambiguities within ODCP projects. By introducing the theory of commons into the governance of ODCPs, this research provides new theoretical guidance for decision-makers and practitioners involved in ODCP projects.
Efficient computation of magnetic polarizability tensor spectral signatures for object characterisation in metal detection
Authors: Elgy James , Ledger Paul David
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Magnetic polarizability tensors (MPTs) provide an economical characterisation of conducting magnetic metallic objects and their spectral signature can aid in the solution of metal detection inverse problems, such as scrap metal sorting, searching for unexploded ordnance in areas of former conflict and security screening at event venues and transport hubs. In this work, the authors aim to discuss methods for efficiently building large dictionaries for classification approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

Previous work has established explicit formulae for MPT coefficients, underpinned by a rigorous mathematical theory. To assist with the efficient computation of MPTs at differing parameters and objects of interest, this work applies new observations about the way the MPT coefficients can be computed. Furthermore, the authors discuss discretisation strategies for hp-finite elements on meshes of unstructured tetrahedra combined with prismatic boundary layer elements for resolving thin skin depths and using an adaptive proper orthogonal decomposition (POD) reduced-order modelling methodology to accelerate computations for varying parameters.

Findings

The success of the proposed methodologies is demonstrated using a series of examples. A significant reduction in computational effort is observed across all examples. The authors identify and recommend a simple discretisation strategy and improved accuracy is obtained using adaptive POD.

Originality/value

The authors present novel computations, timings and error certificates of MPT characterisations of realistic objects made of magnetic materials. A novel postprocessing implementation is introduced and an adaptive POD algorithm is demonstrated.
Green beauty: examining factors shaping millennials’ attitudes toward organic personal care products in South Africa
Authors: Lupindo Mongezi , Madinga Nkosivile Welcome , Dlamini Siphiwe
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the factors that influence millennials’ attitudes toward organic personal care products, focusing on the role of health consciousness, environmental concerns and quality perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

An electronic, self-administered survey was used to collect 377 responses. The data analysis utilized partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The findings reveal that environmental concerns, health consciousness and perceived behavioral control play a significant role in shaping millennials’ attitudes toward organic personal care products, while the perceived quality of organic personal care products significantly influences their purchase intentions.

Practical implications

The results of this study provide valuable insights for personal care product manufacturers, retailers and marketers looking to target millennial consumers. By understanding the key factors that influence millennials’ attitudes and purchase intentions, marketers in the personal care product industry can tailor their strategies effectively.

Social implications

The study’s findings inform strategies that promote healthier and more environmentally conscious consumer behavior. This aligns with broader societal goals of promoting sustainability and health consciousness, contributing to a more environmentally and socially responsible consumer culture.

Originality/value

The study’s contribution lies in its focused exploration of the interplay between health consciousness, environmental concerns and quality perceptions on millennials’ attitudes toward organic personal care products.
The nexus between digital financial knowledge and financial inclusion: digital financial attitudes and behaviour as mediators enhancing financial inclusion
Authors: Zaimovic Azra , Omanovic Adna , Nuhic Meskovic Minela , Arnaut-Berilo Almira , Zaimovic Tarik , Dedovic Lejla , Torlakovic Anes
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to measure financial inclusion (FI) and to examine the role of digital financial literacy (DFL) and its components, and various socio-demographics in relation to FI. In addition, the mediating effect of digital financial attitudes (DFA) on the relationship between digital financial knowledge (DFK) and digital financial behaviour (DFB), as well mediating effect of DFA and DFB on the relationship between DFK and FI, is being explored.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a cross-sectional research design, we utilize a dataset from the survey of adults’ financial literacy in Bosnia and Herzegovina, collected from the representative sample of 1,096 adults in 2022. The main methodology relies on logistic and ordinal logistic regression analyses and PROCESS for mediation analyses.

Findings

The findings suggest that the effect of DFK on DFB is partially mediated by DFA. In addition, the effect of DFK on FI is fully mediated through three pathways: DFA, DFB, and DFA and DFB in serial mediation. Age, education, employment status and residence are significantly related to FI. Internet access is significant only for FI scores but not for adults’ banking status. Although women are almost twice as unbanked as men, we find no gender-based differences in financial product holdings, FI or adults’ banking status.

Practical implications

There is a need to enhance DFK and DFA to enable adults to use financial products. Financial institutions could use our results in designing and promoting their services.

Social implications

Policy implications are seen in the need for developing national strategies for financial education, with an emphasis on strengthening DFL, especially DFK and DFA, which will enhance the formal FI of adults. Also, governments should work on expanding Internet access.

Originality/value

The results make a contribution to the theory of planned behaviour. They contribute to the limited empirical evidence of the mediating role of DFA in relationship to DFB, as well as the mediating role of DFA and DFB in relationship to FI.
Promoting sustainability literacy for students in Thai higher education institution: a case of Siam University
Authors: Rukspollmuang Chanita , Chansema Tachagorn
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The objectives of this study were (1) to explore and analyze sustainability literacy of undergraduate students and (2) to propose guidelines for promoting sustainability literacy of the undergraduate students at Siam University, Bangkok, Thailand.

Design/methodology/approach

A 5-point rating scale survey questionnaire was used to collect data from 235 students registered in General Education courses in Semester 2 of academic year 2022. The analyzed data was presented to a focus group discussion, conducted with 19 internal and external stakeholders, as a basis to propose guidelines for promoting sustainability literacy.

Findings

The students perceived that they had better knowledge about sustainable development and sustainable development goals (SDGs) and that their knowledge about and degree of participation in SDGs-related activities were at high level. Intrapersonal competence was rated as their highest sustainability competence, followed by futures-thinking, and systems-thinking. The focus-group suggested that competency-based GE curriculum should be used as a platform to enhance sustainability literacy. Guidelines concerning learning outcomes, learning content, learning culture, learning with technology, and learning assessment were then proposed.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s methodological limitations include the use of purposive sample case of the Siam University and self-perceiving assessment survey instrument for the data collection that provide sufficient insights on the present state and problems concerning sustainability literacy of university students.

Practical implications

Sustainability is one of the national pillars in Thailand 20 years strategy (2018–2037). Hence, the government encourages all educational institutions, including universities to transform themselves toward this goal. Siam University has used education program as a vehicle to meet this aspiration. Lesson learnt from the study will not only benefit the university per se but will be valuable for practices in other universities. In addition, findings and implications from the study will help accelerate the transformation of Thai higher education institutions toward sustainable universities.

Social implications

Sustainability has been promoted in education and social context. Siam University is recognized as a leading university in promoting campus and community sustainability through our “living learning lab” approach. We have used social living labs for teaching and learning activities for years. Partnerships among academia, private and public sectors, as well as community members will benefit from this research.

Originality/value

The study explores the scholarly topic of significant social importance and implications in the Thai context. The present study on sustainability literacy opens a path for further research and cross-institutional and national comparative studies on the issue.
Hero's journey as a framework to study a project manager
Authors: Eskerod Pernille , Hollensen Svend
Published: October 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore which insights the hero’s journey framework provides to the micro-level perspective of the process a project manager goes through in a project.

Design/methodology/approach

The study design involves a longitudinal qualitative case study in which we follow a project manager over the course of two projects. In Canada, the project manager undertook the world’s first hotel rooftop honeybee garden project. Later, he implemented a rooftop honeybee garden at the Waldorf Astoria New York. The stages and archetypes within the hero’s journey framework are used as an analytical grid for analysis.

Findings

Our research reveals how the hero’s journey framework can be utilized as a lens to understand the process of a project from the viewpoint of the project manager. The research shows that projects can have comprehensive stages and transform the project managers themselves.

Research limitations/implications

The research investigates small-scale projects that are peripheral to the core business of the case organizations. A limitation is that the findings may not be applicable for bigger, more complex and core business projects. Another limitation is that the research relies on secondary data only. Two managerial implications: For a project manager to start out on a hero’s journey, triggers that make the project manager respond to “a calling” need to be present. The project manager must be able to deal with different archetypes, whether helpful or harmful, along the process.

Originality/value

The research extends existing knowledge on a project manager’s decisions, obstacles, opportunities, thoughts, emotions and actions through the project process by showing how the hero’s journey framework can be used as a supplement to the well-known metaphor of a project as a temporary organization. Further on, the research demonstrates how an analytical framework can enhance the understanding of the process of a project manager from a micro-level perspective. In addition, the research deals with corporate social responsibility (CSR) related projects that are of high relevance in the contemporary society.
Empirical study of robotic systems implementation to corporate performance in manufacturing sector
Authors: Younis Hassan , Bwaliez Omar M. , Garibeh Mohammad Hamdan , Sundarakani Balan
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of implementing various robotic systems in logistics and supply chain management on corporate performance in Jordanian manufacturing companies, focusing on environmental, operational, economic, and social dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative approach, data was collected through a survey questionnaire to measure the relationship between robotic systems and several performance dimensions. Various established constructs were employed, and the structural relationships were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to assess the complex interdependencies within the model.

Findings

The results of this study indicate that the adoption of robotic systems has a positive influence on the environmental, operational, economic, and social performance of Jordanian manufacturing companies. In contrast to prior research that revealed inconsistencies in the social dimension, our findings align with previous studies highlighting the benefits of robotics in logistics and supply chain management. However, it’s worth noting that this study did not uncover similar inconsistencies, particularly in terms of the impact on social performance.

Practical implications

The study provides valuable insights for manufacturing companies considering the implementation of robotic systems, highlighting the need to evaluate the environmental, operational, social, and economic consequences. This understanding can help organizations make informed decisions to leverage the benefits of robotics for sustainable growth.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the growing literature on robotics in logistics and supply chain management, specifically focusing on the unique context of Jordanian manufacturing companies. By examining the multifaceted impact of robotic systems, this study extends the understanding of the role of technology in enhancing corporate performance.
Can military-experienced CEOs improve corporate outcomes?
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Huong , Thi Thuy Nguyen Phuong
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the role of CEOs with military experience in shaping corporate outcomes in Vietnam and provide new insights into how these unique backgrounds influence corporate financial decisions and firm performance within the specific context of an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a comprehensive data set of 323 non-financial firms listed in Vietnam over 2013–2021 to examine the association between military-experienced CEOs and corporate outcomes. The authors apply propensity-score matching analysis to address potential endogeneity issues and use 2SLS estimation to show the mechanisms through which military CEOs affect firm performance.

Findings

The authors find that firms led by CEOs with military backgrounds outperform their counterparts lacking this experience. Furthermore, the findings indicate that firms helmed by military-experienced CEOs tend to make more investments and maintain lower (higher) short-term (long-term) debt levels.

Practical implications

This study provides additional evidence on the influence of military CEOs on corporate outcomes, particularly in the context of an emerging market. It underscores the positive effects of skills acquired during military service on veterans’ civilian careers, particularly in business leadership roles. The findings are valuable for managers contemplating the recruitment of veterans, highlighting the potential advantages these individuals can bring to a company. Additionally, the results may inspire younger individuals to consider military training as a means to develop valuable characteristics that can enhance their personal and professional development.

Originality/value

The authors have observed the notable success in firms led by CEOs with military backgrounds since Vietnam’s renovation period in the 1980s. Yet, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, research on the influence of military-experienced CEOs in Vietnam remains scarce. This study is the first pioneering in shedding light on the diverse contributions of soldiers to the development of the Vietnamese economy.
Predicting financial performance with intellectual capital using machine learning
Authors: Lim SangGon (Edward)
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to apply machine learning techniques to efficiently predict leisure firms’ financial performance. Accurate financial forecasting is crucial in leisure and tourism, greatly affecting firms’ strategic decisions and competitive positioning. This study emphasizes the roles of intellectual capital to offer a nuanced understanding of how these types of capital influence firm success.

Design/methodology/approach

Using comprehensive firm-level data, this study examines several machine learning algorithms’ predictive capacity across a spectrum of industry sectors (general, manufacturing, service) to identify the most effective model and training dataset. These tools are used to evaluate financial metrics such as return on sales, return on assets and sales growth. A range of variables are incorporated into this process to enhance model accuracy and relevance.

Findings

Results demonstrate the support vector machine algorithm’s exceptional performance based on a training data set from the service sector in predicting leisure firms’ return on sales and sales growth. This algorithm is thus an efficacious strategic forecasting instrument. The variables significantly affecting firm performance include demand variation; organizational, product and technological innovation; synergistic innovation between multiple domains; salary levels; market strategy; and the number of employees.

Originality/value

By integrating advanced machine learning techniques with the strategic management of intellectual capital, this study presents a sophisticated approach to predicting leisure firms’ financial performance. Findings enrich the discourse on firm performance forecasting and offer actionable insights into strategic planning and resource allocation for practitioners in the leisure and tourism sectors.
Integrating spare part inventory management and predictive maintenance as a digital supply chain solution
Authors: Shokri Alireza , Toliyat Seyed Mohammad Hossein , Hu Shanfeng , Skoumpopoulou Dimitra
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the feasibility and effectiveness of incorporating predictive maintenance (PdM) into existing practices of spare part inventory management and pinpoint the barriers and identify economic values for such integration within the supply chain (SC).

Design/methodology/approach

A two-staged embedded multiple case study with multi-method data collection and a combined discrete/continuous simulation were conducted to diagnose obstacles and recommend a potential solution.

Findings

Several major organisational, infrastructure and cultural obstacles were revealed, and an optimum scenario for the integration of spare part inventory management with PdM was recommended.

Practical implications

The proposed solution can significantly decrease the inventory and SC costs as well as machinery downtimes through minimising unplanned maintenance and addressing shortage of spare parts.

Originality/value

This is the first study with the best of our knowledge that offers further insights for practitioners in the Industry 4.0 (I4.0) era looking into embarking on digital integration of PdM and spare part inventory management as an efficient and resilient SC practice for the automotive sector by providing empirical evidence.
Money laundering and the automobile industry: a comparative study between the laws of Mauritius and UK
Authors: Beebeejaun Ambareen
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Motor vehicles play a vital role in the economic and social growth of any country. However, they have recently become instruments and a source of illegally obtained financial gains for criminal bodies and individuals. This study aims to assess the laws of Mauritius on AML procedures to prevent money laundering through vehicles transactions.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the research objective, the black letter research method was used by analysing laws, regulations and case laws on the subject matter. A desk-based and doctrinal approach was also used by examining policy papers, scholarly articles and newspaper materials on the researched topic. Additionally, the research adopted a comparative analysis by assessing how the laws of another country address the issue of money laundering through vehicle transaction and the selected country is the UK.

Findings

The research concluded that Mauritius AML laws are lagging behind of the UK laws and accordingly, some measures were suggested to deal with the issue of money laundering through vehicles transactions. Accordingly, this research recommended that motor vehicle dealers who are high value dealers engaged in cash transactions above certain threshold, must also be categorised as reporting persons under the FIAMLA such that the prescribed AML measures apply to them. Additionally, it is convenient for the FCC to be embodied with some additional punitive and corrective powers to assist the Commission in its fight for the prevention and elimination of financial crimes in Mauritius.

Originality/value

At present, this study will be among the first academic writings on the intersection between money laundering and the automobile industry and on the effectiveness of the legal and regulatory measures undertaken by the Mauritian authorities to prevent money laundering through vehicles transactions. The study is carried out with the aim of combining a large amount of empirical, theoretical and factual information that can be of use to various stakeholders and not only to academics.
The mediating effect of greed on the relationship between strategic entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial success: does gender of the entrepreneur matter?
Authors: Esubalew Amare Abawa , Adebisi Sunday Abayomi
Published: October 2024

Purpose

Understanding the factors that drive entrepreneurial success is crucial, and the role of greed in this context remains controversial. This study investigates how strategic entrepreneurship (SE) influences success, with greed as a mediating factor.

Design/methodology/approach

Using survey data from 127 respondents, we applied exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The findings indicate that while SE enhances success, greed hinders it. Notably, greed does not significantly mediate the relationship between SE and success, and its impact is not gender-sensitive.

Research limitations/implications

These insights contribute to the broader understanding of entrepreneurial dynamics and suggest that future research should explore additional moderating factors such as cultural background, industry type and organizational size.

Originality/value

This research broadens the understanding of the impact of greed on entrepreneurial success, an area that has not been extensively studied. It also uniquely explores the moderating role of gender in the relationship between SE and greed, offering fresh theoretical and practical perspectives on the factors influencing entrepreneurial success.
Embedding reflection sessions in (inter)cultural awareness trainings: value and learning outcomes based on workshops for health and social care professionals
Authors: Arafat Nahed Munir , Woodin Jane , Tavares Amanda Savioli Marques
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This article discusses the importance of the relationship between cultural awareness (CA) training and post-training reflection in the health-care sector, and considers the implications for future developments for CA training in relation to content, audience, process and format.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 77 health and social care professionals (HCSPs) took part in a 4-h CA training, 25 of whom also opted for an additional optional reflection hour. The results reported on in this paper are drawn from the experiences of the 25 participants in the optional reflection sessions (RSs), using a thematic analysis approach.

Findings

Participants highly valued the “safe space” in both the CA workshop and the optional follow-on RS, enabling them to share experiences, revisit topics and feel supported to put things into practice. They also reported a growing confidence in dealing with intercultural challenges, in particular in asking questions and being curious about topics they did not understand.

Originality/value

This research points towards a strong recommendation for open-ended CA training, allowing participants to articulate their experiences, fears and concerns. It also highlights the importance of a follow-on RS as an integral part of CA training; both of these were found to offer opportunities for strengthening HSCPs’ skills and facilitate the transition of learning from the workshop context into the workplace, with the ultimate aim of reducing inequalities in the quality of patient care.
An exploration of the service and crime prevention performance of the municipal police departments of Taiwan’s counties: the perspective of broken windows theory
Authors: He Dong-Sing , Wang Tse-Sheng
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the service and crime prevention performance of law enforcement agencies in Taiwan’s municipalities. By analyzing these performances, the study seeks to improve the efficiency of police services through appropriate resource allocation, ultimately achieving enhanced crime prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a two-stage data envelopment analysis (DEA) to construct performance metrics. In the first stage, the service performance of the police force was measured using the number of police officers and police stations as inputs and the number of patrols and temporary patrol boxes as outputs. In the second stage, crime prevention performance was assessed with the number of patrols and temporary patrol boxes as inputs and cases of violence, injury, intimidation and theft as outputs. Additionally, a truncated regression model was employed to analyze the impact of environmental variables such as per capita income, population density, proportion of the population with higher education and the unemployment rate on crime prevention performance.

Findings

The study found significant variations in both service and crime prevention performance across different municipalities. By identifying the most efficient and inefficient units, the analysis revealed critical insights into resource utilization and areas needing improvement. The regression analysis indicated that environmental factors such as higher per capita income, population density, education level and unemployment rate significantly affect crime prevention performance.

Originality/value

This research provides a novel approach to assessing police service efficiency and crime prevention effectiveness using a two-stage DEA model. By incorporating environmental variables through truncated regression, the study offers a comprehensive evaluation framework that can inform policy decisions and resource allocation strategies. This methodology not only highlights the performance metrics of law enforcement agencies but also underscores the influence of socioeconomic factors on crime prevention, contributing to the broader literature on public safety and resource management.
Enhancing service quality in the insurance industry with AI-powered humanoid chatbots
Authors: Patil Kanchan Pranay , Kulkarni Mugdha Shailendra , Hudnurkar Manoj
Published: October 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the potential of artificial intelligence with AI-powered humanoid Chatbots (AIPHC) as transformative tools to improve customer service quality in the insurance sector. The usability and efficiency of integrating advanced AI chatbots that can replicate human-like interactions in insurance services will be examined by taking into consideration customers’ technological readiness and chatbots’ anthropomorphism.

Design/methodology/approach

This empirical study analysed 688 customer responses collected through purposive sampling using structural equation modelling. With the help of SmartPLS 4.0, the study determines whether anthropomorphism, that is AIPHC system-specific and customer personality-specific dimensions, can influence the acceptance of AIPHC in the insurance sector.

Findings

The results show that the chatbot’s anthropomorphism positively influenced customers’ optimism and innovativeness but negatively impacted discomfort and security. Further optimism and innovativeness favourably impact AIPHC adoption. Insecurity had a significant negative impact, while discomfort was insignificant for AIPHC adoption.

Research limitations/implications

The study determines how people will react to AI-powered information systems. The results could help us better understand how the technological readiness of customers can be used in emphasizing the significance of system-specific theories like anthropomorphism in sectors like insurance, where customer interactions and delivery of quality services are important.

Practical implications

The results highlight chatbots’ potential to raise the quality of service, simplify processes and enhance customers’ overall experiences in the insurance sector. This study contributes to the continuing discussion on using AI technologies in customer service by considering the interplay between technology readiness and anthropomorphism. It also provides insightful information for insurance professionals and technology developers.

Social implications

Anthropomorphic humanoid chatbots can increase the availability, affordability and accessibility of essential services. They have the potential to increase users’ competence, autonomy and—possibly counterintuitively social relatedness.

Originality/value

This empirical research explores the link between anthropomorphism and technology readiness to enhance service quality provided by AI powered chatbots in the insurance sector.
Perceived effectiveness of celebrities and online influencers in advertising endorsement among Malaysian young adults
Authors: Li Qiqi , Chan Kara
Published: October 2024

Purpose

With the emergence of social media, online influencers have played a major role in brand marketing. This study aims to examine how Malaysian young adults perceive advertising endorsements of celebrities and online influencers within the framework of parasocial relations and multiculturalism.

Design/methodology/approach

This study engaged 42 Malaysian young adults aged 18–24 in semistructured interviews. They were asked to share a television commercial with celebrity endorsement and explain why it was impressive. They were then asked explicitly to compare traditional celebrities and online influencers in terms of attractiveness, credibility and endorsement effects.

Findings

Advertising execution strategies and emotional attachment to advertising endorsers are the two main reasons for making an advertisement impressive. Interviewees demonstrate strong emotional attachments to celebrities who are national icons. Online influencers are perceived as more relatable, authentic and credible than traditional celebrities. Interviewees perceive that endorsements by traditional celebrities were more effective for luxurious brands and brands targeting older consumers. On the other hand, endorsements by online influencers were perceived to be more effective for low-involvement product categories and brands that target younger consumers.

Research limitations/implications

This study presents a summary of the parallel perceptions of online influencers and celebrities to explain how young consumers evaluate advertising with celebrity and social media influencer endorsement.

Practical implications

Malaysian young adults perceive endorsers as people who guide their experiences with ads. Adopting an endorser who is young, has a trendy image, and has a similar cultural background enhances the relatability of ads for young adults. National sports heroes can serve as nation-building agents through celebrity endorsement in advertising.

Originality/value

Few studies directly compare the endorsement effects of celebrities and online influencers in a multicultural setting. This study provides marketing and theoretical insights to unravel the influencing mechanism of parasocial relations and multiculturalism.
Circulating CD31 and resistin levels reflect different stages of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Huynh Trang Nguyen‐Mai , Yamazaki Fumikazu , Konrad Robert J. , Nishikawa Yumiko , Tanaka Akihiro , Son Yonsu , Ozaki Yoshio , Takehana Kazuya , Tanizaki Hideaki
Published: October 2024

Psoriasis is a skin disease with a complicated pathophysiology that includes an extensive inflammatory cytokine network. Nevertheless, the relationship between psoriasis severity, cytokine levels, and coronary artery atherosclerosis remains poorly understood. Our aim was to find serum markers as potential candidates for cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk monitoring in patients with psoriasis. Therefore, we examined coronary artery atherosclerosis via coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA), serum cytokine levels via multiple immunoassays, and the patients' psoriasis state. Our findings reveal for the first time that the mainstream psoriasis cytokines interleukin 17A (IL‐17A), IL‐19, and IL‐36 in the sera of Japanese patients with psoriasis showed a linear regression association with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score. Furthermore, the serum level of IL‐19 was remarkably correlated to Th2‐related serum cytokines such as IL‐4 and IL‐17E. When we investigated potential markers to monitor CVD in patients with psoriasis, circulating cluster of differentiation 31 (CD31) and resistin, but not psoriasis‐related cytokines, were expressed differently at each stage of coronary atherosclerosis by CCTA. CD31 and resistin levels rose dramatically in individuals with psoriasis vulgaris (PV) and noncalcified atherosclerosis. In contrast, CD31 was negatively correlated with the coronary artery calcification score (CACS) in patients with PV, whereas resistin was inversely correlated with CACS in patients with psoriatic arthritis. In conclusion, the axis of IL‐17A, IL‐19, and IL‐36 remains associated with the severity of psoriasis during the chronic phase of the disease, regardless of the application of topical or systemic treatment. Monitoring the levels of these cytokines can accurately determine the severity of skin inflammation. Resistin and CD31 are linked to coronary artery lesions and might be good candidates for tracking the progression of coronary atherosclerosis in patients with psoriasis.
Interplay between native plant performance and environment shapes resistance to aquatic plant invasion
Authors: Fan Shufeng , Lv Tian , Yu Haihao , Yang Lei , Wang Ligong , Li Yang , Liu Chunhua , Yu Dan
Published: October 2024

In the limited number of studies on biotic resistance in freshwater ecosystems, experimental studies have supported that native plants play a role in resisting exotic plant invasion, but field observations have often reported positive relationships between exotic and native plant richness.

To determine the reasons for the lack of evidence supporting biotic resistance in field observations, we surveyed the richness, biomass and coverage of exotic and native aquatic plants in 2801 quadrats at 287 sites in various freshwater ecosystems of China and examined the impacts of scale and environmental factors on the relationships between native and exotic plant richness and performance.

At both the site and quadrat scales, we observed a positive correlation between the richness of exotic and native plants. However, at the quadrat scale, high native plant richness was associated with a reduction in the biomass of exotic emergent and floating plants as well as the biomass of exotic submerged plants in low‐nutrient water bodies. An increase in native plant performance, a metric that integrates the biomass and coverage of native plants, was associated with a decrease in both the richness and biomass of exotic plants at both scales. Furthermore, with increasing native plant performance at the quadrat scale, the richness of exotic plants declined more strongly in low‐nutrient water bodies than in high‐nutrient water bodies, and the decline in the biomass of exotic emergent and floating plants was more severe in shallow water than in deep water.

Synthesis. Our results indicate that native plant performance is more important than richness for resistance to invasion in freshwater ecosystems, and the strength of biotic resistance is related to environmental factors. This study highlights the importance of environmental variables and multiple native community features and invasibility metrics in field observational studies of invasion.
Decarbonising the Australian Economy Introduction
Authors: Jensen Paul H. , Webster Beth
Published: October 2024

For most of the last 15 years, Australia policy on climate change has been decidedly underwhelming, leaving us behind where we need to be to fulfil our obligations under the Paris Accord. But there are encouraging signs at present that there is an emerging consensus—amongst captains of industry, different levels of government, policy‐makers and everyday Australians—that we can achieve our ambitions to live in a world that is far less reliant on carbon.
Disclosure, Patenting, and Trade Secrecy
Authors: BOOT ARNOUD , VLADIMIROV VLADIMIR
Published: October 2024

Patent applications often reveal proprietary information to competitors, but does such disclosure harm firms or also benefit them? We develop and empirically support a theory showing that when firms patent enhancements to incumbent, nondisruptive technologies, they can cooperate more easily on these technologies, increasing their profitability. The downside of cooperating on nondisruptive technologies is that the investment in and commitment to disruptive technologies decline. To improve their commitment to disruptive technologies, some firms rely more on trade secrecy. We provide empirical support for these predictions. We document that after a patent reform that made information about patent applications widely accessible, firms cooperate more and charge higher markups. Furthermore, the nature of patented innovation has changed, with the proportion of nondisruptive patents increasing substantially. Finally, while some firms start patenting more, others patent less and rely more on trade secrecy, with the response depending on the attractiveness of firms' innovation prospects.
From Food Industry 4.0 to Food Industry 5.0: Identifying technological enablers and potential future applications in the food sector
Authors: Hassoun Abdo , Jagtap Sandeep , Trollman Hana , Garcia‐Garcia Guillermo , Duong Linh N. K. , Saxena Prateek , Bouzembrak Yamine , Treiblmaier Horst , Para‐López Carlos , Carmona‐Torres Carmen , Dev Kapal , Mhlanga David , Aït‐Kaddour Abderrahmane
Published: October 2024

Although several food‐related fields have yet to fully grasp the speed and breadth of the fourth industrial revolution (also known as Industry 4.0), growing literature from other sectors shows that Industry 5.0 (referring to the fifth industrial revolution) is already underway. Food Industry 4.0 has been characterized by the fusion of physical, digital, and biological advances in food science and technology, whereas future Food Industry 5.0 could be seen as a more holistic, multidisciplinary, and multidimensional approach. This review will focus on identifying potential enabling technologies of Industry 5.0 that could be harnessed to shape the future of food in the coming years. We will review the state‐of‐the‐art studies on the use of innovative technologies in various food and agriculture applications over the last 5 years. In addition, opportunities and challenges will be highlighted, and future directions and conclusions will be drawn. Preliminary evidence suggests that Industry 5.0 is the outcome of an evolutionary process and not of a revolution, as is often claimed. Our results show that regenerative and/or conversational artificial intelligence, the Internet of Everything, miniaturized and nanosensors, 4D printing and beyond, cobots and advanced drones, edge computing, redactable blockchain, metaverse and immersive techniques, cyber‐physical systems, digital twins, and sixth‐generation wireless and beyond are likely to be among the main driving technologies of Food Industry 5.0. Although the framework, vision, and value of Industry 5.0 are becoming popular research topics in various academic and industrial fields, the agri‐food sector has just started to embrace some aspects and dimensions of Industry 5.0.
Smart conducting polymer innovations for sustainable and safe food packaging technologies
Authors: El Guerraf Abdelqader , Ziani Imane , Ben Jadi Sana , El Bachiri Ali , Bazzaoui Mohammed , Bazzaoui El Arbi , Sher Farooq
Published: October 2024

Biofilm formation on food packaging surfaces is a major issue in the industry, as it leads to contamination, reduces shelf life, and poses risks to human health. To mitigate these effects, developing smart coatings that can actively sense and combat microbial growth has become a critical research focus. This study is motivated by the need for intelligent packaging solutions that integrate antimicrobial agents and sensors for real‐time contamination detection. It is hypothesized that combining conducting polymers (CPs) with nanomaterials can enhance antimicrobial efficacy while maintaining the mechanical integrity and environmental stability required for food packaging applications. Through the application of numerous technologies like surface modification, CP–nanoparticle integration, and multilayered coating, the antimicrobial performance and sensor capabilities of these materials were analyzed. Case studies showed a 90% inhibition of bacterial growth and a tenfold decrease in viable bacterial counts with AgNPs incorporation, extending strawberries’ shelf life by 40% and maintaining fish freshness for an additional 5 days. Moreover, multilayered CP coatings in complex systems have been shown to reduce oxidative spoilage in nuts and dried fruits by up to 85%, while maintaining the quality of leafy greens for up to 3 weeks under suboptimal conditions. Environmental assessments indicated a 30% reduction in carbon footprint when CP coatings were combined with biodegradable polymers, contributing to a more transparent and reliable food supply chain. CP‐based films integrated with intelligent sensors exhibit high sensitivity, detecting ammonia concentrations below 500 ppb, and offer significant selectivity for sensing hazardous gases. These findings indicate that CP‐based smart coatings markedly enhance food safety and sustainability in packaging applications.