bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boosting of neural circuit chaos at the onset of collective oscillations
Authors: Palmigiano Agostina , Engelken Rainer , Wolf Fred
Published: August 2022

Neuronal spiking activity in cortical circuits is often temporally structured by collective rhythms. Rhythmic activity has been hypothesized to regulate temporal coding and to mediate the flexible routing of information flow across the cortex. Spiking neuronal circuits, however, are non-linear systems that, through chaotic dynamics, can amplify insignificant microscopic fluctuations into network-scale response variability. In nonlinear systems in general, rhythmic oscillatory drive can induce chaotic behavior or boost the intensity of chaos. Thus, neuronal oscillations could rather disrupt than facilitate cortical coding functions by flooding the finite population bandwidth with chaotically-boosted noise. Here we tackle a fundamental mathematical challenge to characterize the dynamics on the attractor of effectively delayed network models. We find that delays introduce a transition to collective oscillations, below which ergodic theory measures have a stereotypical dependence on the delay so far only described in scalar systems and low-dimensional maps. We demonstrate that the emergence of internally generated oscillations induces a complete dynamical reconfiguration, by increasing the dimensionality of the chaotic attractor, the speed at which nearby trajectories separate from one another, and the rate at which the network produces entropy. We find that periodic input drive leads to a dramatic increase of chaotic measures at a the resonance frequency of the recurrent network. However, transient oscillatory input only has a moderate role on the collective dynamics. Our results suggest that simple temporal dynamics of the mean activity can have a profound effect on the structure of the spiking patterns and therefore on the information processing capability of neuronal networks.
The fate of accounting for public governance development
Authors: Grossi Giuseppe , Argento Daniela
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain how public sector accounting has changed and is changing due to public governance development.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts a traditional literature review based on selected studies in the fields of accounting, public administration and management. The aim of the review is to explain how diverse forms of public governance influence the fate of public sector accounting, including accountability, performance measurement, budgeting and reporting practices.

Findings

Public governance is developing into more inclusive but also complex forms, resulting in network, collaborative and digital governance. Consequently, the focus and practices of public sector accounting have changed, as reflected in new types of accountability, performance measurement, budgeting and reporting practices.

Research limitations/implications

Drawing upon literature from different fields enables a deeper understanding of the changes in public sector accounting. Nevertheless, the intention is not to execute a systematic literature review but to provide an overview and resolve the scattered body of knowledge generated by previous contributions. The areas of risk management and auditing were not included and deserve further attention.

Originality/value

This paper discusses the need to continually redefine and reassess public sector accounting practices, by recognising the interdependencies between different actors, citizens and digital technologies.
Experiences of equine assisted therapy for females with autism spectrum disorders
Authors: Warner Katie , Keville Saskia , Hockley Jemma , Ludlow Amanda
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This research indicates females with autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) have a diverse clinical presentation compared to males. Furthermore, females with ASD are often diagnosed later and typically experience greater levels of mental health difficulties. Evidence suggests that clinic-based verbal interventions for ASD have limited efficacy; therefore, alternative therapies, such as equine-assisted therapies (EATs), are gaining recognition. The purpose of this study was to directly explore the experiences of females with an ASD who have undertaken EAT.

Design/methodology/approach

Five female participants with a diagnosis of ASD were recruited from two equine therapy centres. Participants were aged between 15 and 30 years and undertook semi-structured interviews, which were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Findings

Three superordinate themes emerged: the difficult experience of the social world, the process of EAT and the emotional impact of horses.

Originality/value

Directly exploring the experiences of females with ASD highlights benefits from engaging therapeutically with horses, building confidence and independence to transferring this into more effective social communication with other people. Offering emotion-focused therapeutic complementary interventions for females with ASD should be forefronted to help remediate the impact of difficult and sometimes traumatic earlier experiences in the social world. This requires increased funding for EAT, combined with larger-scale research projects to evaluate this.
Addressing sustainability during and post-COVID-19 pandemic crisis: a literature review and bibliometric analysis to explore the future avenues
Authors: Devi Yashoda , Srivastava Abhishek
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the current research trends in sustainability through an extensive literature review and propose future research agenda under the ambit of the ongoing coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. Specifically, the present study aims to uncover the current state of the literature and thereby develop an understanding of how the pandemic has impacted the dimensions of sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the objective, the authors adopted a five-step literature review process, combined with bibliometric and network analysis. The authors also considered news articles and reports of international organizations to comprehensively achieve the research objective.

Findings

The study results show how the pandemic has impacted the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability. The results also highlight the list of authors, countries and institutions that have proactively worked towards eliminating the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Research limitations/implications

The study provides an in-depth understanding of the scholarly contributions to the field of sustainability since the COVID-19 outbreak. The study is useful for policymakers and businesses interested in understanding how the pandemic has impacted the dimensions of sustainability and possible mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the study also provides future research directions in the intersection of pandemic and sustainability dimensions. Specific research questions (RQs) are also proposed to help future research.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, this study is a pioneer attempt to provide a comprehensive understanding of the existing and rapidly growing literature on COVID-19 and its relationship with the various dimensions of sustainability.
Guiding new Middle managers in developing effective communication practices
Authors: Schraeder Mike
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of the article is to provide practical recommendations and insights for leaders and/or organizations to consider as they guide new middle managers in their efforts to develop a preliminary foundation for effective communication practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is framed within the context of new middle managers. Emphasis is placed on providing examples of ways that leaders and organizations can assist or guide new middle managers in developing a foundation for preliminary communication practices.

Findings

Guidance from upper-level leaders related to the foundation should include, among other things, an overview of expectations, organizational goals, and vision. The article also includes some examples of preliminary communication practices that upper-level leaders might suggest for consideration by new middle managers. The examples include, preferred communication channels, preferences related to responsiveness, preferred characteristics of electronic communication, being intentional, and promoting balance/wellbeing.

Originality/value

Middle managers are important to the success of organizations. The role of middle managers encompasses several requisite skill sets. Among those skill sets is the need for effective communication. The article approaches the topic of effective communication in the context of new middle managers, with an emphasis on leader/organizational guidance that can contribute to a preliminary foundation for effective communication practices. The foundation and examples can then serve as a platform for ongoing development of a more comprehensive communication plan.
Design and implementation of a relational model of risk communication
Authors: Lejano Raul P. , Haque Ahmadul , Kabir Laila , Rahman Muhammad Saidur , Pormon Miah Maye , Casas Eulito
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The intent of the work is to go beyond the conventional model of disaster risk prevention, where community residents are objects of risk communication initiatives, and develop and implement a relational model of risk communication wherein they are active agents of knowledge transfer.

Design/methodology/approach

The relational model of risk communication translates risk knowledge into narrative forms that community members can share. The article discusses the conceptual basis of the model and, then, describes how it has been pilot tested and implemented in the field. Evaluation of the pilot tests consist of pre- and post-surveys comparing control and test groups.

Findings

Encouraging results have been seen among vulnerable communities, such as residents in a refugee camp and schoolchildren in a storm surge vulnerable town. These outcomes support the idea that the relational approach can empower residents to be active agents of risk communication.

Originality/value

The relational model taps into the knowledge and agency of community.
Effect of knowledge resources on innovation and the mediating role of dynamic capabilities: case of medical tourism sector in Iran
Authors: Edgar Gerry , Kharazmi Amirali , Behzadi Sedigheh , Kharazmi Omid Ali
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This research is an empirical study that addresses whether knowledge resources impact on, or do not impact on, innovation development and if this impact is mediated by dynamic capabilities in the medical tourism sector in Mashhad city, Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research methodology was applied and questionnaires were used for data collection in this study. A total of 108 questionnaires were collected of which 102 questionnaires were valid. Data were analyzed using structural equation modelling technique.

Findings

Empirical evidence obtained from the study reveals that the dynamic capability of learning plays a significant role in transforming knowledge resources into innovation in the medical tourism sector. The mediating role of coordinating capability in the relationship between explicit and tacit knowledge and innovation is considerable and it influences human capital, as well. Sensing capability also exhibits some degree of a mediating role; however, integrating capability is not influential and its role in transforming explicit knowledge to innovation is rejected.

Originality/value

Most studies on innovation in medical tourism focused on market and its typology, and neglected the role of knowledge resources and dynamic capabilities. The current study bridges this gap and thus contributes to the scientific literature.
New conceptual tools for be(com)ing antiracist (teacher) educators at PWIs
Authors: Clark Caroline T. , Skrlac Lo Rachel , Boyd Ashley , Cook Michael , Crawley Adam , Rish Ryan M.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to share the development of new conceptual tools, which merge theories of critical whiteness studies (CWS), epistemic injustice and abolitionist teaching, applying them to the discourse of pre- and in-service teachers across the predominantly white institutions (PWIs) as they discuss antiracist teaching through the book Stamped and a series of online discussions.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative, collaborative practitioner inquiry derived data from video-recorded, online discussions, interviews and weekly research meetings. Critical discourse analysis revealed theoretical gaps and prompted the integration of additional theories, resulting in new conceptual tools, which are applied here to both “in the moment” exchanges between participants and individuals’ reflections in interviews.

Findings

Applying new conceptual tools to discussions of whiteness and race revealed how epistemic harm, microresistance and epistemic justice emerge in talk along with the importance of cultivating critical vigilance among antiracist educators.

Originality/value

This study elucidates how merging the conceptual frameworks of CWS, epistemic injustice and abolitionist teaching provides new tools for interrogating antiracism relative to whiteness in participants’ and researchers’ experiences. It challenges teacher educators, particularly at PWIs, to recognize how epistemic harm may be inflicted on students of color when centering whiteness in teacher education.
Socio-ecological risks management dynamic simulation in megaproject development of the Edinburgh Tram Network
Authors: Boateng Prince , Omotayo Temitope , Osunsanmi Temidayo , Ekundayo Damilola
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The inherent risks and their interactive impacts in megaproject development have been found in numerous cases worldwide. Although risk management standards have been recommended for the best practice in engineering construction projects, there is still a lack of systematic approaches to describing the interactions. Interactions such as social, technical, economic, ecological and political (STEEP) risks have complex and dynamic implications for megaproject construction. For a better understanding and effective management of megaprojects such as the Edinburgh Tram project, the dynamic interaction of concomitant risks must be studied.

Design/methodology/approach

A systems dynamic methodology was adopted following the comprehensive literature review. Documentary data were gathered from the case study on Tram Network Project in Edinburgh.

Findings

A casual loop of typical evolution of key indicators of risks was then developed. A hypothesised model of social and ecological (SE) risks was derived using the system dynamics (SD) modelling technique. The model was set up following British Standards on risk management to provide a generic tool for risk management in megaproject development. The study reveals that cost and time overruns at the developmental stage of the case project are caused mainly by the effects of interactions of risk factors from the external macro project environment on a timely basis.

Originality/value

This article presented a model for simulating the socio-ecological risk confronting the management and construction of megaprojects. The use of SD provided the opportunity to explain the nature of all risks, particularly the SE risks in the past stages of project development.
“Let’s manage the stressor today” exploring the mental health response to forced migrants in Johannesburg, South Africa
Authors: Walker Rebecca , Vearey Jo
Published: August 2022

Purpose

In South Africa, the majority of the population struggles to access care and support for mental health challenges. Drawing on challenges faced by asylum seekers and refugees in the urban margins of Johannesburg, this paper aims to explore the relationship between migration and mental health through a lens of heightened vulnerability, precarious urban spaces and unmet basic needs.

Design/methodology/approach

Remote interviews were conducted with respondents working in the mental health-care sector (public and private) and with migrant communities in Johannesburg. Respondents were identified via purposive sampling and interviews were conducted in English. Key findings were identified using thematic analysis.

Findings

Effective responses to asylum seekers and refugees facing mental health challenges are based on an understanding of context, of crisis and of the need to meet basic needs such as paying rent, finding employment and providing for families. These “daily stressors” not only compound “extreme traumatisation” but are a form of trauma in and of itself.

Originality/value

This paper shows how alternative responses determined by an understanding of context, of crisis and of the need to meet basic needs provide critical and potentially far-reaching interventions. Locating trauma in the unmet needs, precarious urban spaces and marginalisation opens up space to further question the ways that migration and mental health shape and reshape one another.
Does conditional cash transfer change educational aspirations? Evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Hartarto Romi Bhakti , Wardani Dyah Titis Kusuma
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The paper aims to examine whether conditional cash transfer (CCT) program has effect on educational aspirations of poor parents for their children. Specifically, it investigates the effect of Indonesian CCT program, Family Hope Program, on the number of schooling years parents aspire their children to attain.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses data from the Indonesian Family Life Survey (IFLS) 2007 and 2014 to capture periods before and after the implementation of the Family Hope Program. Propensity score matching and difference-in-differences are employed to estimate the impact of the CCT program on parental education aspirations.

Findings

This research finds that CCT program increases parents' aspiration of their children's education up to one schooling year. This impact is robust across all matching specifications.

Research limitations/implications

There is a limited sample size of the program participants as identified in the data set which would likely reduce statistical power of the estimator. The result is also potentially sensitive to hidden bias; hence it should be cautiously interpreted.

Social implications

From a policy viewpoint, the program is able to change parents' desire for their children to acquire more education. Given the program's concern on human capital of the children, this is a good sign that if the transfers were ceased the education of subsequent children would be less likely to return to pre-program levels.

Originality/value

Since the existing literature focuses on Latin America, no empirical evidence is found in other developing countries with different institutional setting. This paper makes important contributions by examining whether CCT program increases parents' educational aspirations in Indonesia, a lower middle-income country in Southeast Asia with salient sociodemographic status as the largest Muslim population and fourth most populous country in the world.
Production of boric acid added brake friction composite and the effect of heat treatment on braking characterization
Authors: Sugözü İlker , Öner Cengiz , Mutlu İbrahim , Sugözü Banu
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the use of boric acid as a friction modifier material in brake friction composites and to determine the effect of heat treatment applied during production on braking performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The addition of five different amounts of boric acid was balanced with cashew, which is in the friction modifier material group. The samples were produced in the following order: dry mixing, preforming and hot-pressing. The effect of the heat treatment that can be applied after the hot-pressing process on the braking performance was investigated. The tribological and physical properties of the samples were determined using tests performed according to appropriate standards. The microstructures of the friction surfaces were investigated using scanning electron microscopy.

Findings

It was observed that the tribological properties of brake friction composites containing 20% by weight of boric acid were improved. It has also been observed that the heat treatment applied after hot pressing increased the friction coefficient of the samples by 7% on average and decreased the specific wear ratio of the samples. When the surface morphologies of the samples are examined, it is seen that the friction layers of the heat-treated samples are wider, and the microvoids and cracks are reduced.

Originality/value

This study showed that boric acid can be used as a friction modifier in brake friction composites. It also revealed the tribological and physical contribution of the applied heat treatment to the composite. Thus, it guides brake friction composite manufacturers in the industry and researchers working in this field.
Designing for serendipity: a means or an end?
Authors: Smets Annelien
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This article aims to gain a better understanding of the reasons why serendipity is designed for in different kinds of environments. Understanding these design intents sheds light on the value such designs bring to designers, in contrast to the users of the environment. In this way, the article seeks to contribute to the literature on cultivating serendipity from a designers’ point of view.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive review of the literature discussing designing for serendipity was conducted to elicit the different motivations to design for serendipity. Based on these findings and a thorough analysis, a typology of design intents for serendipity is presented.

Findings

The article puts forward four intents to design for serendipity: serendipity as an ideal, common good, mediator and feature. It also highlights that the current academic discourse puts a strong emphasis on two of them. It is argued that this academic abstraction could be problematic for how we deal with designs for serendipity, both in theory and practice.

Originality/value

The novelty of this article is that it addresses the question of why to design for serendipity from a designer’s point of view. By introducing the notion of directionality it opens up the opportunity to discuss serendipity from multiple perspectives, which contributes to gaining a firmer understanding of serendipity. It allows to more explicitly formulate the different functions of a design for serendipity and thereby expands our knowledge on the value of designing for serendipity. At the same time, it sheds light on the potential threats to designing for serendipity.
Gender inequalities in rural labour markets: the role of corporate social responsibility in Niger Delta, Nigeria
Authors: Uduji Joseph Ikechukwu , Okolo-Obasi Elda Nduka
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to critically examine the multinational oil companies’ (MOCs) corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives in Nigeria. Its special focus is to investigate the impact of the global memorandum of understanding (GMoU) on women’s involvement in rural labour market in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts a survey research technique, aimed at gathering information from a representative sample of the population, as it is essentially cross-sectional, describing and interpreting the current situation. A total of 768 respondents were sampled across the rural areas of the Niger Delta region.

Findings

The results from the use of a combined propensity score matching and logit model indicate that CSR of the MOCs using GMoU model has recorded little but significant success in improving women’s participation in the labour market by freeing women’s time through labour-saving technologies and the provision of public services, raising women’s capital through education, eliminating discriminatory employment practices and capitalizing on public works programmes.

Practical implications

This suggest that the underlining causes of gender inequality in rural labour markets are institutional, including both social norms and the structure of labour market organizations, and can be holistically tackled through CSR programmes, government policies and building the strength of women in labour organizations.

Social implications

This implies that reducing rural poverty requires not just the barriers to women’s participation in decent employment but also aiming for a policy that helps to change people’s perceptions of what is possible, beneficial and fair; fosters cooperative action; and strengthens women’s bargaining power in the work place, the home and the market place.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the gender debate in agriculture from a CSR perspective in developing countries and rationale for demands for social project by host communities. It concludes that business has an obligation to help in solving problems of public concern.
The impact of digitalization on labor productivity evolution: evidence from China
Authors: Song Malin , Tao Weiliang , Shen Zhiyang
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the impact and mechanism of digital development on enterprise labor productivity. In addition, this study empirically analyzes the nonlinear impact of digitalization on labor productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a fixed effect model, a mediation effect model and a panel threshold model to test the theoretical hypothesis of this study.

Findings

The results demonstrated that digitalization had a promotional effect on labor productivity, with approximately 18% of this effect achieved through transmission and influence on human capital. In addition, the novelty of this study lies in the discovery that digitization has an obvious nonlinear positive effect on corporate labor productivity. The results suggest that companies should increase investment in data-driven innovation capabilities, improve the implementation of digital talent training plans, improve their financing capacity and strengthen corporate internal management, while the government should provide appropriate policy support differently for various enterprises.

Originality/value

This study takes China’s Shanghai and Shenzhen A-share listed companies as the research object, systematically examines the impact and mechanism of digital development on enterprise labor productivity and explores the nonlinear relationship between digitalization and enterprise labor productivity, which is a new angle.
Reciprocal knowledge sharing: exploring professional–cultural knowledge sharing between expatriates and local nurses
Authors: Aldaheri Noof , Guzman Gustavo , Stewart Heather
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore how professional–cultural knowledge is reciprocally shared between experienced expatriates and novice local nurses. To address this, the situated learning in practice lens is combined with social exchange lens.

Design/methodology/approach

An interpretive case study methodology enabled an exploratory approach into the knowledge-sharing practices between experienced expatriates and novice local nurses in Saudi Arabia.

Findings

Insights gained in the fieldwork suggest that professional–cultural knowledge sharing (KS) often occurred through three primary practices, namely, developing a professional–cultural meaning, forming clinical competency development opportunities and intervening in unfamiliar professional–cultural situations. In addition, two micro-level conditions shaped the reciprocity of professional–cultural KS practices between expatriate and local nurses, which were individual differences and situational conditions.

Originality/value

This study advances and improves the understanding of two intertwined but rarely studied aspects of knowledge-sharing practices. The exploratory lens sought and gained rich insights into the knowledge-sharing practices between experienced and novice individuals and expatriate and local individuals.
Understanding damage to and reparation of brand trust: a closer look at image congruity in the context of negative publicity
Authors: Tong Zelin , Feng Jingdan , Liu Fang
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Studies have shown that negative publicity adversely affects brand trust, but exactly how brand trust can be damaged remains poorly understood. This study aims to explore how negative publicity influences image congruity and, subsequently, brand trust. In addition, the study also examined the effectiveness of two corporate strategies to repair both congruity and trust.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a valid sample of 522 Chinese consumers between the ages 20 and 50, this study adopted a quasi-experimental design involving two types of negative publicity (performance- and value-related) and two initial corporate repair strategies (compensation and public apology) intended to repair brand trust.

Findings

Negative publicity shaped brand trust through both functional congruity and self-congruity. Moreover, the type of negative publicity affected the role of image congruity in brand trust. The effectiveness of repair strategies further depended on the type of negative publicity.

Research limitations/implications

Mobile phones were an appropriate focal product for this research, but examining only one product category may limit findings’ generalizability. Negative emotions such as frustration or anger and their relationships with congruity can also be addressed in future work. Subsequent research can additionally consider more conditions to explore alternative routes of processing related to brand trust.

Practical implications

Brand trust is a vulnerable brand asset on which negative publicity can have seriously negative consequences. Marketers and brand managers should assess the extent to which negative publicity can damage image congruity and brand trust and come up with different repair strategies subsequently.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the limited and fragmented literature on consumers’ evaluations of negative information. Findings offer fresh insight into the impacts of negative publicity on image congruity and brand trust. The implications extend beyond negative publicity to other forms of negative information, such as rumors, fake news and negative word of mouth. Results also highlight the importance of adopting appropriate repair strategies to restore consumers’ trust in the event of negative publicity.
The finite element method for evaluating the fire behavior of steel structures
Authors: Thanasoulas Ilias , Lauridsen Dan , Husted Bjarne Paulsen , Giuliani Luisa
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to contribute toward providing the main aspects of numerical modeling the fire behavior of steel structures with finite elements (FEs). The application of the method is presented for a characteristic case study comprising the series of large-scale fire door tests performed at the Danish Institute of Fire and Security Technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a general overview of current practices in structural fire engineering, the FE method is used to simulate the large-scale furnace tests on steel doors with thermal insulation exposed to standard fire.

Findings

The FE model is compared with the fire test results, achieving good agreement in terms of developed temperatures and deformations.

Originality/value

The numerical methodology and recommended practices for modeling the fire behavior of steel structures are presented, which can be used in support of performance-based fire design standards.
Orchestration of the complex environmental context: how does strategic management affect and dynamic capabilities mediate performance?
Authors: Yıldırım Özmutlu Saniye , Arun Korhan
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to understand better how strategic management (SM) affects organizational and operational performance by examining the mediating role of dynamic capabilities (DCs) in complex environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a survey of a sample of managers (n = 480) from each logistics firm and applies structural equation modeling to determine the relationships among variables.

Findings

The analyses identify SM directly and DCs as a mediator significant antecedent for the operational performance; further, environmental complexity shows an impact as a significant factor on both variables.

Research limitations/implications

One of the managerial implications is that acquiring-sensing the environment should be orchestrated to be effective.

Originality/value

Previous DC literature studied underdeveloped DCs in complex environments and ignored the manager’s role as a connection between the environment and the firm. This paper contributes to the topic in three important ways: first, it clarifies the operational performance from the combination of the design of the DCs and the SM characteristics within the complex environment; second, the paper specifies that microfoundations of DCs are essential in the drive’s differences in the performance of the firms; and third, it clarifies regarding the role of the complex external environment rather than dynamic ones.
The gravitational field effect on a micro-elongated thermoelastic layer under a fluid load with two theories
Authors: Othman Mohamed I.A. , Ismail Mohamed F.
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study the gravity effects on a micro-elongated thermoelastic layer under a fluid load, utilizing the Lord–Shulman (L-S) theory and the dual-phase-lag (DPL) model.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytical method used was the normal mode which partial differential equations transform into ordinary differential equations.

Findings

Aluminum epoxy numerical computations are carried out, and the results are graphed. The DPL model and the L-S theory are compared in the complete absence and presence of gravity. Comparisons were also made for three values of and it is observed that the gravity has quite a massive influence on all physical quantities.

Originality/value

In the present paper, the authors shall create the general equation for the energy equation, which includes the two theories (DPL and L-S) as well as the solution of micro-elongated thermoelasticity under fluid load. The problem is pretty important in many dynamical systems.
Higher education research, development agendas in Africa. Where is the convergence? A literature review
Authors: Tumwebaze Alicon Auf
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the possible link among the African Development Bank (AfDB), Results Measurement Framework 2016–2025 and the research published at institutions of higher education on the continent in the last five years. The unregulated commercialisation of higher education in most African countries has been prone to large-scale abuse through wanting curriculum development and processes accruing to competence, skills needy and job market disoriented graduates.

Design/methodology/approach

This study took a qualitative literature review analysis where research papers published in the last five years on higher education in Africa were searched. These were from Google and Semantic scholar and these were categorised in a detailed concept matrix.

Findings

Findings indicate that there is hardly a connection between the AfDB Group development agenda on the continent and the research conducted and published by institutions of higher learning on the continent.

Practical implications

Universities should prioritise a needs-based research agenda in their strategic planning and this implies commitment in terms of funding, human resource competency empowerment and partnerships with development agencies on the continent. African institutions of higher learning have not emphasised applied research practices to tackle pervading knowledge needs on the continent. Just like findings indicate, research in most of these institutions has been donor driven.

Originality/value

This study brings to speed the fact that if transforming Africa is going to take a strategic direction in the post-COVID-19 era, then partnerships between higher education institutions and development agencies operating on the continent will be an inevitable venture.
On 3D printing of customized multi-root dental implants for the strategic tooth of canine by direct metal laser sintering
Authors: Singh Rupinder , Das Anish , Anand Arun
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study aims to design and fabricate a customized multi-rooted dental implant (MRDI) for a canine strategic tooth to reduce surgical time/effort, and better assembly features, leading to enhanced primary and secondary stability and load-bearing capabilities by direct-metal laser sintering (DMLS).

Design/methodology/approach

A fractured tooth of a male German Shepherd three-year-old dog (extracted from a cadaver) was selected as the subject for the proposed work. The computer-aided design model of the implant was developed on SOLIDWORKS after a detailed review of literature and consultation with a veterinary doctor about the surgical procedures. Static stress analysis on the implant assembly and residual stress analysis with boundary distortion were performed on each part of the implant subassembly to ensure the fool-proof design.

Findings

The functional prototype of the innovative MRDI assembly through DMLS was successfully prepared with acceptable dimensional stability, surface roughness (Ra) and refined microstructure. The 3D printed functional prototype was observed to be residual stress-proof during printing and can bear up to 800 N bite force (required for an adult dog).

Originality/value

Innovative MRDI assembly has been 3D printed by using 17–4 precipitate hardened stainless steel without compromising the strength and can be implanted without bone grafting for better primary stability. Also, the prepared implant will be better for secondary stability due to enhanced osseointegration.
A study on Ishikawa’s original basic tools of quality control in healthcare
Authors: McDermott Olivia , Antony Jiju , Sony Michael , Rosa Angelo , Hickey Mary , Grant Tara Ann
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The main purpose of this study is to investigate Ishikawa’s statement that “95% of problems in processes can be accomplished using the 7 Quality Control (QC) tools” and explore its validity within the health-care sector. The study will analyze the usage of the 7 QC tools in the health-care service sector and the benefits, challenges and critical success factors (CSFs) for the application of the 7 QC tools in this sector.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to evaluate Ishikawa’s statement and how valid his statement is for the health-care sector, an online survey instrument was developed, and data collection was performed utilizing a stratified random sampling strategy. The main strata/clusters were formed by health-care professionals working in all aspects of health-care organizations and functions. A total of 168 participants from European health-care facilities responded to the survey.

Findings

The main finding of this study is that 62% of respondents were trained in the 7 QC tools. Only 3% of participants in the health-care sector perceived that the seven tools of QC can solve above 90% of quality problems as originally claimed by Dr Ishikawa. Another relevant finding presented in this paper is that Histograms, Cause and Effect diagrams and check sheets are the most used tools in the health-care sector. The least used tools are Stratification and Scatter diagrams. This paper also revealed that the 7 QC tools proposed by Dr Ishikawa were most used in hospital wards and in administration functions. This work also presents a list of CSFs required for the proper application of the 7 QC tools in healthcare.

Research limitations/implications

This research was carried out in European health-care facilities – and there is an opportunity to expand the study across global health-care facilities. There is also an opportunity to study the use of the tools and their impact on hospital performance using the Action Research methodology in a health-care organization.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the very first research within the health-care sector that focused on investigating the usage of all the 7 basic tools and challenging Dr Ishikawa’s statement: “95% of problems in processes can be accomplished using the 7 Quality Control (QC) tools” from his book “What is Quality Control?” The results of this study represent an important first step toward a full understanding of the applicability of these tools in the health-care sector.
“What innovations would enable the tourism and hospitality industry in the European Union to re-build?”
Authors: Sovani Altaf Husen
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to discuss innovations in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, major investments and reforms required to realize transformation in the tourism and hospitality industry of the European Union.

Design/methodology/approach

A remedial literature study approach is used to analyze innovations put in place by governments and industry and to determine best practices including new innovations that could help to strengthen hospitality and tourism operations.

Findings

The COVID-19 outbreak and border closures had a significant impact on the tourism and travel sectors. During the pandemic, innovations were needed to address challenges brought on by the border closures, vaccine passports and stricter health and safety requirements. While these innovations helped organizations survive and reinvent themselves, they are not enough for long term sustainability. The need for resilience, effective and well-designed active labor market policies and social protection systems including investment in education and skills training will become basic foundations for sustainability. In order to address these issues, collaboration between government, academia and industry is essential.

Originality/value

The outbreak of COVID-19 and border closures in 2020 created turmoil in the travel and tourism sector. Small- and medium-sized enterprises were damaged and many did not survive. That said, the crisis has given the tourism and hospitality industry an opportunity to rethink the future.
Unravelling the Relationship between Dark Triad Traits and Effectuation and Causation within Small‐ and Medium‐sized Enterprises
Authors: Shirokova Galina , Selivanovskikh Louisa , Morris Michael H. , Bordunos Aleksandra
Published: August 2022

Prior studies have examined effectuation and causation as alternative behavioural logics used by entrepreneurs to manage uncertainty, noting a number of antecedents of the tendency to rely on a given logic at different levels of analysis. This study aims to broaden the understanding of individual‐level antecedents by examining the role of the so‐called dark side of the CEO personality on decision‐making processes within small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Using the lens of upper echelons theory and trait‐activation theory, we focus on three personality characteristics: narcissism, psychopathy, and Machiavellianism. The impact of dark triad traits on the behavioural logic employed by the CEO is argued to be moderated by the perceived level of uncertainty experienced by the firm. A set of hypotheses regarding these relationships are tested with a random sample of CEOs of Russian SMEs. The findings suggest that CEOs scoring higher in psychopathy tend to adopt a causal logic, while Machiavellians rely on an effectual logic. The level of uncertainty shapes these relationships by weakening the links between dark triad traits and behavioural logics.
The rainbow connection: Disrupting background affect, overcoming barriers and emergent emotional collectives at “Pride in London”
Authors: Day Chris Robson
Published: August 2022

This article focuses on a large‐scale parade in the UK that is often overlooked in research concerned with the sociology of political emotions and group dynamics; “Pride in London”. This is an annual parade celebrating, and raising awareness about, the LGBTQ+ community and commemorating the Stonewall riots. Following a brief description of the study context, participants and methods, the article illustrates the use of reflexive thematic analysis of 23 interviewee accounts of the parade. Analysis of emotional habitus and affective practices preceding, and on the day of, the parade offer an insight into the manifestation of collective emotion. Three themes are developed exploring the use of recognizable and emotive symbols, physicality of embodied emotion and spatial arrangement and the encompassing nature of group emotion. Finally, the interplay between background and foreground emotion is explored as a way of understanding and demonstrating the fluidity and temporality of affective experience and expression when people are engaged in collective action at a social justice event.
Leading an ECA through climate transformation: A President's perspective
Authors: Lavery Mairead
Published: August 2022

Strong and principled leadership will bring the export credit agency (ECA) community, as a whole and across all nations, to the point where we can have a greater positive impact on tackling climate change. We must evolve our roles to ensure we support our countries' economies while also tackling the global climate crisis. Without that luxury of flipping a coin, we must chart a path for our companies and our countries to address both at the same time. This is the responsibility and the privilege we have been given as leaders of ECAs.
Brazilian Boidae hemipenis morphology: Macroscopic and histological aspects
Authors: Bento Heitor José , Ferreira Adelina , da Paz Regina Celia Rodrigues
Published: August 2022

Four genera of the Boidae family are found in Brazil: Eunectes, Corallus, Epicrates, and Boa. Male copulatory organs in snakes are located inside the tail and are called hemipenes. They are double structures in an inverted position that are exposed during copulation. This study describes the macroscopic and histological aspects of hemipenes in Boidae snakes. One Boa constrictor, three Epicrates cenchria, one Corallus hortulanus hemipenes, and one fragment of the muscular retractor penis magnus (m. retractor penis magnus) from Eunectes murinus were included in this study. The structures were evaluated macroscopically and photo‐documented using a stereo microscope. Tissue fragments were included in glycol methacrylate plastic resin, cut into 3‐μm‐thick slices, and stained with 1% toluidine blue for microscopic evaluation. The macroscopic analysis showed that the arrangement and diameter occupied by the m. retractor penis magnus in the hemipenis and the internal and external cavernous bodies differ between species. The histological analysis showed that the hemipenis of B. constrictor, E. cenchria, and C. hortulanus has stratified epithelium in the external portion supported by dense connective tissue with blood vessels and muscle tissue. Although the literature reports the presence of skeletal musculature in the hemipenis, striated musculature with a centrally located nucleus in the fibre bundle, typical of cardiac musculature in mammals, was observed in the studied species.