bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Topical Review: Perceptual-cognitive Skills, Methods, and Skill-based Comparisons in Interceptive Sports
Authors: Hodges Nicola J. , Wyder-Hodge Pearson A. , Hetherington Shawn , Baker Joseph , Besler Zachary , Spering Miriam
Published: July 2021

SIGNIFICANCE

We give a comprehensive picture of perceptual-cognitive (PC) skills that could contribute to performance in interceptive sports. Both visual skills that are low level and unlikely influenced by experience and higher-level cognitive-attentional skills are considered, informing practitioners for identification and training and alerting researchers to gaps in the literature.

Perceptual-cognitive skills and abilities are keys to success in interceptive sports. The interest in identifying which skills and abilities underpin success and hence should be selected and developed is likely going to grow as technologies for skill testing and training continue to advance. Many different methods and measures have been applied to the study of PC skills in the research laboratory and in the field, and research findings across studies have often been inconsistent. In this article, we provide definitional clarity regarding whether a skill is primarily visual attentional (ranging from fundamental/low-level skills to high-level skills) or cognitive. We review those skills that have been studied using sport-specific stimuli or tests, such as postural cue anticipation in baseball, as well as those that are mostly devoid of sport context, considered general skills, such as dynamic visual acuity. In addition to detailing the PC skills and associated methods, we provide an accompanying table of published research since 1995, highlighting studies (for various skills and sports) that have and have not differentiated across skill groups.
Poorer Muscle Quality and Quantity With ART Initiation Is Associated With Greater Inflammation and Immune Activation
Authors: Kousari Arianna , Moser Carlee , Olefsky Maxine , Brown Todd T. , Currier Judith S. , McComsey Grace A. , Scherzinger Ann , Stein James H. , Lake Jordan E. , Erlandson Kristine M.
Published: July 2021

Background:

We have previously shown that the initiation of antiretroviral therapy (ART) is associated with a decrease in skeletal muscle density (greater fat accumulation), suggesting that gains in lean body mass seen in many ART studies may reflect gains in low quality, fatty muscle. Here, we explore whether skeletal muscle density and area are associated with markers of inflammation and immune activation.

Methods:

ART-naïve people with HIV were randomized to raltegravir or ritonavir-boosted atazanavir or darunavir, each with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate/emtricitabine. Abdominal computed tomography scans from baseline and week 96 were reanalyzed for psoas density and area and correlations explored with inflammation [interleukin-6 (IL-6) and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein] and immune activation [soluble CD14 (sCD14), soluble CD163 (sCD163), and %CD38+HLADR+ on CD4+ or CD8+ T cells].

Results:

Two hundred twenty-two participants had available inflammation/immune activation markers and paired computed tomography scans. At baseline, lower psoas density (greater fat) correlated with higher IL-6 (r = −0.26, P < 0.001) and sCD163 (r −0.15, P = 0.03) and lower lean psoas area correlated with higher IL-6, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, sCD14, sCD163, and %CD38+HLADR+ on CD4+ T cells (r = −0.30–0.13; all P ≤ 0.05). From baseline to week 96, greater percent decrease in total psoas density (more fat) correlated with greater increase in IL-6 (r = −0.14; P = 0.04); greater % decrease in lean psoas area correlated greater increases in IL-6, sCD14, sCD163, and %CD38+HLADR+ on CD8+ T cells (r = −0.15 to −0.18; all P < 0.04).

Conclusions:

Greater fat infiltration within the psoas muscle (lower density) and greater loss in lean psoas muscle area were associated with higher inflammation and immune activation, which may portend important effects on muscle function and cardiometabolic risk.
The Impact of Hospitalist Switch Day on Length of Stay
Authors: Yang Evan , Zhou Zhipeng , Walker Rebekah J. , Segon Yogita , Segon Ankur
Published: July 2021

Background and Objective:

Hospitalist practices around the country switch service on different days of the week. It is unclear whether switching clinical service later in the week is associated with an increase in length of stay (LOS). The aim of this study was to examine the association between service switch day for hospitalists at an academic medical center and LOS.

Methods:

A single-center, cross-sectional study examined 4284 discharges from hospitalist staffed general internal medicine ward teams over a 1-year period between July 2018 and June 2019. Hospitalist service switch day changed from Tuesday to Thursday on January 1, 2019. The period between July 1, 2018, and December 31, 2018, was defined as the pre-switch time, while January 1, 2019, to June 30, 2019, was defined as the post-switch period. We calculated the LOS in days for patients discharged from hospitalist general internal medicine teams in the 2 periods. Generalized linear models were used to examine the association between attending switch day and LOS while adjusting for demographic factors, payer status, markers of severity of illness, and hospital or discharge-level confounders.

Results:

There was no difference in mean LOS for patients discharged in the pre-switch time (6 days) period versus patients discharged in the post-switch time (6.03 days) (difference of means 0.03 days, 95% confidence interval −0.04 to 0.09, P value .37).

Conclusions:

Change in attending switch day from earlier in the week to later in the week is not associated with an increase in LOS. Other factors such as group preference and institutional needs should drive service switch day selection for hospitalist groups.
Data Analysis and Forecasting of COVID-19 Pandemic in Kuwait
Authors: Oshinubi Kayode , Al-Awadhi Fahimah , Rachdi Mustapha , Demongeot Jacques
Published: July 2021

The first COVID 19 case of Kuwait was announced on 24th February, 2020 and the daily new cases increases exponentially since then until May, 2020 when the first wave started to decline. The same exponential dynamics has been observed between January and March, 2021. The forecast of new cases and death recorded daily is crucial so that health experts and citizens can be guided in order to avoid escalation of the pandemic. We propose a deterministic method to predict the basic reproduction number Ro of first and second wave of COVID-19 cases in Kuwait and also to forecast the daily new cases and death of the pandemic in the country. Forecasting has been done using ARIMA model, Exponential smoothing model, Holts’ method, Prophet forecasting model and machine learning models like log-linear, polynomial and support vector regressions. The results presented aligned with other methods used to predict Ro in first and second waves and the forecasting clearly shows the trend of the pandemic in Kuwait. The deterministic prediction of Ro is a good forecasting tool available during the exponential phase of the contagion, which shows an increasing trend during the beginning of the first and second waves of the pandemic in Kuwait.
Vimentin Intermediate Filaments and Filamentous Actin Form Unexpected Interpenetrating Networks That Redefine the Cell Cortex
Authors: Wu Huayin , Shen Yinan , Sivagurunathan Suganya , Weber Miriam Sarah , Adam Stephen A. , Shin Jennifer H. , Fredberg Jeffrey J. , Medalia Ohad , Goldman Robert , Weitz David A.
Published: July 2021

Vimentin intermediate filaments (VIFs) and F-actin are filamentous cytoskeletal proteins generally thought to form completely independent networks that have vastly different properties and functions. Here, we show that, unexpectedly, there exist both extensive structural and functional interactions between VIFs and F-actin. We show that VIFs and F-actin form an interpenetrating network (IPN) within the cell cortex and interact synergistically at multiple length scales. This IPN structure has important functional consequences in cells: The IPN results in enhanced contractile forces in the cell. In addition, VIFs influence the diffusive behavior of actin monomers, suggesting specific associations between actin and vimentin proteins in the cytoplasm; this facilitates formation of the IPN and has downstream effects on other actin-driven processes. The results suggest that contributions of VIFs and F-actin are strongly correlated. Such interactions counter generally accepted behavior and are broadly significant given the wide range of processes currently attributed to F-actin alone.
The HMCES DNA-protein cross-link functions as a constitutive DNA repair intermediate
Authors: Semlow Daniel R. , MacKrell Victoria A. , Walter Johannes C.
Published: July 2021

The HMCES protein forms a covalent DNA-protein cross-link (DPC) with abasic (AP) sites in ssDNA, and the resulting HMCES-DPC is thought to suppress double-strand break formation in S phase. However, the dynamics of HMCES cross-linking and whether any DNA repair pathways normally include an HMCES-DPC intermediate remain unknown. Here, we show that an HMCES-DPC forms efficiently on the AP site generated during replication-coupled DNA interstrand cross-link (ICL) repair. We use this system to show that HMCES cross-links form on DNA after the replicative CMG helicase has passed over the AP site, and that HMCES is subsequently removed by the SPRTN protease. The HMCES-DPC suppresses DSB formation, slows translesion synthesis (TLS) past the AP site, and introduces a bias for insertion of deoxyguanosine opposite the AP site. These data show that HMCES-DPCs can form as constitutive intermediates in replication-coupled repair, and they suggest a general model of how HMCES protects AP sites during DNA replication.
Antibiotic treatment induces activation of microglia and impairment of cholinergic gamma oscillations in the hippocampus
Authors: Çalışkan Gürsel , French Timothy , Heimesaat Markus M. , Dunay Ildiko Rita , Stork Oliver
Published: July 2021

Antibiotics are widely applied for the treatment of bacterial infections, but their long-term use may lead to gut flora dysbiosis and detrimental effects on brain physiology, behavior as well as cognitive performance. Still, a striking lack of knowledge exists concerning electrophysiological correlates of antibiotic-induced changes in gut microbiota and behavior. Here, we investigated changes in the synaptic transmission and plasticity together with behaviorally-relevant network activities from the hippocampus of antibiotic-treated mice. The prolonged antibiotic treatment led to a strong reduction of myeloid cell pools in bone marrow, circulation and those surveilling the brain. Upon antibiotic treatment, circulating Ly6Chi inflammatory monocytes adopted a proinflammatory phenotype with increased expression of CD40 and MHC II. In the central nervous system, microglia displayed typical signs of activation with elevated CD40 and MHC II expression, as well as increased IL-6 and TNF production. Concomitantly, we detected a substantial reduction in the synaptic transmission in the hippocampal CA1 after antibiotic treatment. In line, carbachol-induced cholinergic gamma oscillation were reduced upon antibiotic treatment while the incidence of hippocampal sharp waves was elevated. These changes were associated with the global changes in the expression of neurotrophin nerve growth factor and inducible nitric oxide synthase, both of which have been shown to influence cholinergic functions. Overall, our study demonstrates that antibiotic-induced changes in the gut microbiome and immune cell function are associated with a drastic reduction in the synaptic transmission and gamma oscillations in the hippocampus, a brain region that is critically involved in mediation of innate and cognitive behavior.
GPU-accelerated multitiered iterative phasing algorithm for fluctuation X-ray scattering
Authors: Kommera Pranay Reddy , Ramakrishnaiah Vinay , Sweeney Christine , Donatelli Jeffrey , Zwart Petrus H.
Published: July 2021

The multitiered iterative phasing (MTIP) algorithm is used to determine the biological structures of macromolecules from fluctuation scattering data. It is an iterative algorithm that reconstructs the electron density of the sample by matching the computed fluctuation X-ray scattering data to the external observations, and by simultaneously enforcing constraints in real and Fourier space. This paper presents the first ever MTIP algorithm acceleration efforts on contemporary graphics processing units (GPUs). The Compute Unified Device Architecture (CUDA) programming model is used to accelerate the MTIP algorithm on NVIDIA GPUs. The computational performance of the CUDA-based MTIP algorithm implementation outperforms the CPU-based version by an order of magnitude. Furthermore, the Heterogeneous-Compute Interface for Portability (HIP) runtime APIs are used to demonstrate portability by accelerating the MTIP algorithm across NVIDIA and AMD GPUs.
Operando structural investigations of thermoelectric materials
Authors: Jørgensen Lasse Rabøl , Borup Kasper , Zeuthen Christian Moeslund , Roelsgaard Martin , Iversen Bo Brummerstedt
Published: July 2021

Operando characterization provides direct insight into material response under application conditions and it is essential to understand the stability limits of thermoelectric materials and their decomposition mechanisms. An operando setup capable of maintaining a thermal gradient while running DC current through a bar-shaped sample has been developed. Under operating conditions, X-ray scattering data can be measured along the sample to obtain spatially resolved structural knowledge in concert with measurement of electrical resistance and the Seebeck coefficient. Here thermoelectric β-Zn4Sb3, which is a mixed ionic–electronic conductor, is studied, and a significant temperature dependence of the Zn migration is directly observed. Measurements with the thermal gradient applied either along or opposite to the DC current establish that the ion migration is an electrochemical effect rather than a thermodiffusion. Consideration of only the applied critical voltage or current density is insufficient for deducing the stability limits and structural integrity of materials with temperature-dependent ion mobility. The present operando setup is not limited to studies of thermoelectric materials, and it also lends itself to studies of, for example, ion diffusion in solid-state electrolytes or structural transformations in solid-state reactions.
Dislocation contrast on X-ray topographs under weak diffraction conditions
Authors: Peng Hongyu , Ailihumaer Tuerxun , Liu Yafei , Raghotharmachar Balaji , Huang Xianrong , Assoufid Lahsen , Dudley Michael
Published: July 2021

The contrast of dislocations in 4H-SiC crystals shows distinctive features on grazing-incidence X-ray topographs for diffraction at different positions on the operative rocking curve. Ray-tracing simulations have previously been successfully applied to describe the dislocation contrast at the peak of a rocking curve.The present work shows that the dislocation images observed under weak diffraction conditions can also be simulated using the ray-tracing method. These simulations indicate that the contrast of the dislocations is dominated by orientation contrast. Analysis of the effective misorientation reveals that the dislocation contrast in weak-beam topography is more sensitive to the local lattice distortion, consequently enabling information to be obtained on the dislocation sense which cannot be obtained from the peak.
GIDInd: an automated indexing software for grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction data
Authors: Kainz Manuel Peter , Legenstein Lukas , Holzer Valentin , Hofer Sebastian , Kaltenegger Martin , Resel Roland , Simbrunner Josef
Published: July 2021

Grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXD) is a widely used technique for the crystallographic characterization of thin films. The identification of a specific phase or the discovery of an unknown polymorph always requires indexing of the associated diffraction pattern. However, despite the importance of this procedure, only a few approaches have been developed so far. Recently, an advanced mathematical framework for indexing of these specific diffraction patterns has been developed. Here, the successful implementation of this framework in the form of an automated indexing software, named GIDInd, is introduced. GIDInd is based on the assumption of a triclinic unit cell with six lattice constants and a distinct contact plane parallel to the substrate surface. Two approaches are chosen: (i) using only diffraction peaks of the GIXD pattern and (ii) combining the GIXD pattern with a specular diffraction peak. In the first approach the six unknown lattice parameters have to be determined by a single fitting procedure, while in the second approach two successive fitting procedures are used with three unknown parameters each. The output unit cells are reduced cells according to approved crystallographic conventions. Unit-cell solutions are additionally numerically optimized. The computational toolkit is compiled in the form of a MATLAB executable and presented within a user-friendly graphical user interface. The program is demonstrated by application on two independent examples of thin organic films.
Separation of the inelastic and elastic scattering in time-of-flight mode on the pinhole small-angle neutron scattering diffractometer KWS-2
Authors: Balacescu Livia , Brandl Georg , Radulescu Aurel
Published: July 2021

To study and control the incoherent inelastic background in small-angle neutron scattering, which makes a significant contribution to the detected scattering from hydrocarbon systems, the KWS-2 small-angle neutron scattering diffractometer operated by the Jülich Centre for Neutron Science (JCNS) at Heinz-Maier Leibnitz Zentrum (MLZ), Garching, Germany, was equipped with a secondary single-disc chopper that is placed in front of the sample stage. This makes it possible to record in time-of-flight mode the scattered neutrons in the high-Q regime of the instrument (i.e. short incoming wavelengths and detection distances) and to discard the inelastic component from the measured data. Examples of measurements on different materials routinely used as standard samples, sample containers and solvents in the experiments at KWS-2 are presented. When only the elastic region of the spectrum is used in the data-reduction procedure, a decrease of up to two times in the incoherent background of the experimentally measured scattering cross section may be obtained. The proof of principle is demonstrated on a solution of bovine serum albumin in D2O.
An active force controlled of small CMG-based satellite
Authors: Salleh Mohd Badrul , Mohd Suhadis Nurulasikin , Varatharajoo Renuganth
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the attitude control pointing improvement for a small satellite with control moment gyroscopes (CMGs) using the active force control (AFC) method.

Design/methodology/approach

The AFC method is developed with its governing equations and integrated into the conventional proportional-derivative (PD) controller of a closed-loop satellite attitude control system. Two numerical simulations of an identical attitude control mission namely the PD controller and the PD+AFC controller were carried out using the MATLAB®-SimulinkTM software and their attitude control performances were demonstrated accordingly.

Findings

Having the PD+AFC controller, the attitude maneuver can be completed within the desired slew rate, which is about 2.14 degree/s and the attitude pointing accuracies for the roll, pitch and yaw angles have improved significantly by more than 85% in comparison with the PD controller alone. Moreover, the implementation of the AFC into the conventional PD controller does not cause significant difference on the physical structure of the four single gimbal CMGs (4-SGCMGs).

Practical implications

To achieve a precise attitude pointing mission, the AFC method can be applied directly to the existing conventional PD attitude control system of a CMG-based satellite. In this case, the AFC is indeed the backbone for the satellite attitude performance improvement.

Originality/value

The present study demonstrates that the attitude pointing of a small satellite with CMGs is improved through the implementation of the AFC scheme into the PD controller.
Trek-ation
Authors: Parmar Bidhan L. , Mead Jenny
Published: July 2021

In this case, a senior business analyst at the online travel agency Trek-ation struggles with the decision of whether to pursue a potentially lucrative idea. Her innovation team had proposed revising the online pricing algorithm in order to use the cookies and other information from customers’ web browser to customize pricing for flights and hotels. Although she wanted to increase revenue for the company and meet her targets, she was also concerned not only about the backlash if this tactic was revealed to the public but also, more importantly, about both the fairness of this practice and the violation of customer privacy norms.
Why Is the Universe Against Me? (A) and (B) (Abridged)
Authors: Bodily Jolene H. , Behfar Kristin J.
Published: July 2021

Hasn’t everyone at some point felt as if the universe was conspiring against his or her success? This case narrative tracks the story of Emmett Taylor, an operations manager for a bottling company, as a snow and ice storm bears down on his southeastern U.S. plant. Taylor is already plagued by stress caused by all facets of his life-family, work, and personal health-and this storm is no exception. The story offers an opportunity to discuss time, energy, and priority management; individual behavior from a type-A personality; work-life balance; organizational behavior; and leadership. This case is a suitable substitution for the classic best-selling Darden case “John Wolford” (UVA-OB-0167).
Retail Relay (A)
Authors: Wilcox Ronald T. , Brandow Kelly
Published: July 2021

Specializing in local, organic meat and produce, Retail Relay developed a new business model for online grocery shopping and delivery. Having succeeded in the small market of Charlottesville, Virginia, it was considering expanding to other, larger markets. This case focuses on customer lifetime value analysis and how this analysis, when paired with previous experience with consumer promotions, can guide thinking in developing the best strategies and tactics for entering new markets.
Membrane mode enhanced cohesive zone element
Authors: Töller Felix , Löhnert Stefan , Wriggers Peter
Published: July 2021

Purpose

In certain cases, traction–separation laws do not reflect the behaviour sufficiently so that thin volumetric elements, Internal Thickness Extrapolation formulations, bulk material projections or various other approaches are applied. All of them have disadvantages in the formulation or practical application.

Design/methodology/approach

Damage within thin layers is often modelled using at cohesive zone elements (CZE). The constitutive behaviour of cohesive zone elements is usually described by traction–seperation laws (TSLs) that consider the (traction separation) relation in normal opening and tangential shearing direction. Here, the deformation (separation) as well as the reaction (traction) are vectorial quantities.

Findings

In this contribution, a CZE is presented that includes damage from membrane modes.

Originality/value

Membrane mode-related damaging effects that can be seen in physical tests that could not be simulated with standard CZEs are well captured by membrane mode–enhanced cohesive zone elements.
Understanding employees' innovative work behavior through interactionist perspective: the effects of working style, supportive noncontrolling supervision and job complexity
Authors: Al-Ghazali Basheer M.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study extends the actor–context interactionist model of individual innovation from the traditional synergetic pattern to a complementary one. The complementary perspective emphasizes the need for integration of divergence and convergence in enhancing employee's innovative work behavior. This study examines how individual working style relates to innovative work behavior through supportive noncontrolling supervision and job complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a time-lagged research design, collecting data through surveys from 262 employees and their immediate supervisors working in telecommunication companies of Saudi Arabia.

Findings

This study found that (1) employee with an intuitively inclined working style (e.g. a divergent predictor) engages in higher levels of innovative work behavior when supportive noncontrolling supervision or job complexity (e.g. convergent factors) is higher; and (2) the positive interactive effect of intuitive working style and supportive noncontrolling supervision on employee's innovative work behavior is stronger when job complexity is higher rather than lower.

Originality/value

This study provides deeper understanding of the interactionist perspective of employees' innovative work behavior. This study is the first of its kind to integrate complementary and synergistic perspectives of actor–context interactionist model of employees' innovative work behavior.
A qualitative exploration of post-migration stressors and psychosocial well-being in two asylum reception centres in Belgium
Authors: Whitehouse Katherine , Lambe Ella , Rodriguez Sofia , Pellecchia Umberto , Ponthieu Aurelie , Van den Bergh Rafael , Besselink Djoen
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Prolonged exposure to daily stressors can have long-term detrimental implications for overall mental health. For asylum seekers in European Union transit or destination countries, navigating life in reception centres can represent a significant burden. The purpose of this study was to explore post-migration stressors during residency in reception centres, and to formulate recommendations for adequate service provision in Belgium.

Design/methodology/approach

Research was conducted in two reception centres in Belgium. A total of 41 in-depth interviews were carried out with asylum seeker residents (n= 29) and staff (n= 12). Purposive recruitment was used for asylum seekers (for variation in length of centre residency and family status) and staff (variation in job profiles). Interviews were conducted in English, French or with a translator in Arabic or Dari. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and manually coded using thematic analysis.

Findings

Asylum seekers face significant constraints with regard to their living conditions, including total absence of privacy, overcrowding and unhygienic conditions. These act as continuous and prolonged exposure to daily stressors. Several barriers to accessing activities or integration opportunities prevent meaningful occupation, contribute towards eroded autonomy and isolation of asylum seeker residents. Inadequate capacity and resources for the provision of psychosocial support in reception centres leads to a sense of abandonment and worthlessness.

Originality/value

Analysis indicates that structural and practical challenges to adequately support asylum seekers are rooted in policy failures necessary for appropriate resourcing and prioritization of preventative measures. Such deliberate decisions contribute towards state deterrence strategies, eroding both individual well-being and manufacturing a crisis in the systems of support for asylum seekers.
Potential benefits and descriptive norms in webrooming: an extended model of goal-directed behaviour
Authors: Arora Sourabh , Sahney Sangeeta , Pradhan Debasis
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to extend the model of goal-directed behaviour by including the potential benefits of webrooming and descriptive norms to scrutinise the consumer's rationale and intent behind webrooming.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey instrument was employed to collect the data. A total of 324 usable responses were obtained, and the structural equation modelling technique was used for analysis.

Findings

The results of the study revealed that consumers utilised the information collected online to strike better deals offline. Also, webrooming not only stimulated smart shopper feelings amongst shoppers but also assisted them in avoiding certain risks associated with shopping online. Besides, support was also garnered for informative and possession benefits linked with webrooming. The findings demonstrated the positive impact of attitude, anticipated emotions and perceived behavioural control on desire, which in turn positively determined the intentions. Significant mediation impact was also observed between attitude and intentions via desire. However, past behaviour was evidenced to impact only intentions. Surprisingly, descriptive norms emerged as a stronger predictor of consumers' desire as opposed to subjective norms, which was found to be insignificant.

Research limitations/implications

Information search and switching costs associated with webrooming have not been considered in this study. A larger sample size would help draw broader generalisations.

Practical implications

While online retailers can utilise the findings of the study to convert webrooming shoppers into buyers, alternatively, offline stores can use the key insights to retain webroomers. Additionally, educators can use the findings of the study to teach the students about the changing retailing dynamics.

Originality/value

The present study emerges as the first one to incorporate cognitive, affective and habitual factors collectively for a better understanding of the webrooming phenomenon.
Evaluating the usefulness of two proposed performance management frameworks: evidence from business practice
Authors: Abdel-Halim Amr Mohamed Said , Ahmed Mirghani N.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the usefulness of two conceptual frameworks: levers of control (LOC) (Simons, 1995) and performance management systems (PMSs) (Ferreira and Otley, 2009) for studying PM practices using a case study.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study method is used whereby data are collected through semi-structured interviews, examination of the group’s annual reports and internal documents.

Findings

A key finding of this study is the use of a PMS at the case company which is formally structured and with objectives, mechanisms and processes designed beyond a mere “performance measurement system.” While the case analysis indicates that most of the key components of the two frameworks are featured in the company’s PMS design, the uses of Simons’ (1995) LOC, however, are not consistent with the notion of “balance” as advocated by the model.

Research limitations/implications

The evidence presented in this study is based on one large manufacturing company, and hence the findings cannot be generalized.

Practical implications

The findings of this study can be used in enriching the design of current proposed theoretical frameworks and also in encouraging management accounting researchers to continue the efforts of studying performance management (PM) practices.

Originality/value

A deeper understanding of PM practices using holistic frameworks has yet to receive more contested efforts from management accounting researchers. This paper attempts to contribute to this endeavor and fill in the gap in this area of research.
Residents’ preferred measures and willingness-to-pay for improving urban air quality: A case study of Hanoi city, Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Thanh Cong , Nguyen Hang Dieu , Le Hoa Thu , Kaneko Shinji
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This purpose of this paper is to understand residents’ choice of preferred measures and their willingness-to-pay (WTP) for the measures to improve the air quality of Hanoi city.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire surveys were conducted to collect the opinions of 212 household representatives living in Hanoi City. The survey tools were tested and adjusted through an online survey with 191 responses. Multivariate probit and linear regression models were used to identify determinants of respondents’ choices of measures and their WTP.

Findings

Respondents expressed their strong preferences for three measures for air quality improvements, including: (1) increase of green spaces; (2) use of less polluting fuels; (3) expansion of public transportation. The mean WTP for the implementation of those measures was estimated at about 148,000–282,000 Vietnamese dong, equivalent to 0.09–0.16% of household income. The respondents’ choices appear to be consistent with their characteristics and needs, such as financial affordability, time on roads and their perceived impacts of air pollution. The WTP estimates increase with perception of air pollution impacts, time on roads, education and income; but are lower for older people.

Practical implication

Increase of green spaces can be the measure to which policy makers should pay more attention. The match-up of residents needs and well-informed plans will be an important key to success.

Originality/value

This appears to be the first attempt to test the validity of public opinions on choices of measures for improving urban air quality in Vietnam. Our WTP estimates also contribute to the database on the values of improved air quality in the developing world.
Understanding the dynamics of cost overrun triggers in highway infrastructure projects in Nigeria: a systems thinking modelling approach
Authors: Mahmud Abba Tahir , Ogunlana Stephen O. , Hong W.T.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Empirical evidence suggests that many triggers influence poor cost performance in highway projects, whereas previous studies about the cost overrun triggers stem from a positivist standpoint supported by conventional statistical techniques, thus disregarding the sophisticated interactions and overall dynamics of the triggers. This study contends for a paradigm shift in investigating and understanding cost overrun triggers by adopting a holistic perspective through the lens of system thinking. This study aims to contend for a paradigm shift in investigating and understanding cost overrun triggers by adopting a holistic perspective through the lens of system thinking.

Design/methodology/approach

Semi-structured interviews with industry stakeholders in Nigeria were conducted buttressed by textual data from literature sources and project documents. Data analysis based on a developed data compatible coding framework and causal relations from textual data sources was used to develop a causal loop diagram depicting the interactions of the triggers which were validated by experts.

Findings

The analysis of the causal loop diagrams (CLDs) allowed identification of action points used to suggest changes for improved cost-effective highway project delivery. Among the suggested interventions are ensuring the provision of adequate funding prior to contract award will result in timely delivery of projects and indeed delivering key projects at the contractual agreed budget. This can be achieved through ensuring strict adherence to the provisions of Section 4 (2) (b) of the Nigerian Public Procurement Act, 2007 which stipulates that no contract should be awarded if funds are not available from the onset.

Research limitations/implications

The study was limited to only highway infrastructure projects in Nigeria and as such caution must be taken before using the outcome of the study to other context within Nigeria and beyond.

Practical implications

From a practical point of view, the causal model demonstrates that this study is capable of being used to make pragmatic decisions regarding policy leverages about improving cost performance in highway projects provision in the Nigerian highway infrastructure sector of the construction industry. Moreover, it will aid a clear understanding of the key influencing triggers of cost overrun by the relevant stakeholders within the highway sector of the industry.

Originality/value

The hybrid-based approach applied in the development of CLDs in this study is expected to provide new insight into understanding the linkages, interactions, feedbacks and processes among the key cost overrun triggers and suggesting leverages for cost performance improvement within the philosophy of system thinking.
Whom to serve? Exploring the moral dimension of servant leadership: answers from operation Valkyrie
Authors: Langhof Jan G. , Gueldenberg Stefan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The article aims at examining the ethical limits and risks of servant leadership. During the Second World War, the German army officer Colonel Claus von Stauffenberg is a loyal servant to his nation and homeland. But when he learns about the Nazis’ mass murders and crimes, he begins to have doubts about whom he should serve. Being confronted with numerous moral dilemmas, he finally decides to join a resistance group. Of course, Stauffenberg's situation as colonel and leader was an extreme case. Time and again, however, managers and leaders are faced with similar dilemmas. Indeed, the current COVID-19-crisis shows that even today’s leaders are repeatedly faced with almost insoluble dilemmas. The recent literature about ethics and leadership suggests a philosophy which is almost portrayed as a panacea to any ethical issues: servant leadership (SL). This study, however, questions the commonly held view that SL is always ethical. The purpose of our historical case study is twofold. First, this study explores the ethical challenges Stauffenberg (and other officers) faced and how they dealt with them. Second, this study elaborates on what responses (if any) SL would provide to these challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

The applied method is a historical case study, in which the authors draw on a plethora of secondary literature, including books, reports, and articles.

Findings

By analyzing the historical case of “Operation Valkyrie,” this study elaborated and identified risks and limitations of SL and pointed out ways to address these risks. In particular, SL poses risks in the case of a too narrow understanding of the term “service.”

Originality/value

While other leadership styles, e.g. transformational leadership or charismatic leadership, have been extensively studied with regard to ethical risks, in the case of SL possible risks and limitations are still largely unexplored.
Health-oriented leadership as a job resource: can staff care buffer the effects of job demands on employee health and job satisfaction?
Authors: Krick Annika , Felfe Jörg , Pischel Sarah
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Drawing upon the job-demands resources and the job demands-control-support model, the authors examined the buffering effect of health-oriented leadership (HoL) in terms of staff care on the relationship between job demands and employee health and job satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data from two studies (N1 = 314 and N2 = 260) were analyzed using moderation analyses.

Findings

Study 1 showed that staff care mitigates the effect of job demands on strain and health complaints. Study 2 found that staff care also buffered the effect of job demands on general health and job satisfaction.

Practical implications

Particularly under high job demands, staff care is an important resource for employees' health and satisfaction. Organizations should promote leaders' staff care.

Originality/value

Findings provide further evidence for the beneficial role of leaders in terms of HoL.
Ethical leadership and employee information security policy (ISP) violation: exploring dual-mediation paths
Authors: Xue Botong , Xu Feng , Luo Xin , Warkentin Merrill
Published: July 2021

Purpose

A growing number of studies have investigated the effect of ethical leadership on behavioral outcome of employees. However, considering the important role of ethics in IS security, the security literature lacks a theoretical and empirical investigation of the relationship between ethical leadership and employees' security behavior, such as information security policy (ISP) violation. Drawing on social learning and social exchange theories, this paper empirically tests the impact of ethical leadership on employees' ISP violation intention through both information security climate (i.e. from a moral manager's perspective) and affective commitment (i.e. from a moral person's perspective).

Design/methodology/approach

The research was developed based on social learning theory and social exchange theory. To measure the variables in the model, the authors used and adapted measurement items from previous studies. The authors conducted a scenario-based survey with 339 valid responses to test and validate the research model.

Findings

Results indicated that information security climate fully mediates the relationship between ethical leadership and ISP violation intention. The authors also found that information security climate enhances the negative effect of affective commitment on ISP violation intention.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the literature of information security by introducing the role of ethical leadership and integrating two theories into our research model. This study also calls attention to how information security climate and affective commitment mediate the relationship between ethical leadership and employees' ISP violation intention. The theory-driven study provides important pragmatic guidance for enhancing the understanding of the importance of ethical leadership in information systems security research.
Recent advances of high entropy alloys for aerospace applications: a review
Authors: Dada Modupeola , Popoola Patricia , Mathe Ntombi
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to review the recent advancements in high entropy alloys (HEAs) called high entropy materials, including high entropy superalloys which are current potential alternatives to nickel superalloys for gas turbine applications. Understandings of the laser surface modification techniques of the HEA are discussed whilst future recommendations and remedies to manufacturing challenges via laser are outlined.

Design/methodology/approach

Materials used for high-pressure gas turbine engine applications must be able to withstand severe environmentally induced degradation, mechanical, thermal loads and general extreme conditions caused by hot corrosive gases, high-temperature oxidation and stress. Over the years, Nickel-based superalloys with elevated temperature rupture and creep resistance, excellent lifetime expectancy and solution strengthening L12 and γ´ precipitate used for turbine engine applications. However, the superalloy’s density, low creep strength, poor thermal conductivity, difficulty in machining and low fatigue resistance demands the innovation of new advanced materials.

Findings

HEAs is one of the most frequently investigated advanced materials, attributed to their configurational complexity and properties reported to exceed conventional materials. Thus, owing to their characteristic feature of the high entropy effect, several other materials have emerged to become potential solutions for several functional and structural applications in the aerospace industry. In a previous study, research contributions show that defects are associated with conventional manufacturing processes of HEAs; therefore, this study investigates new advances in the laser-based manufacturing and surface modification techniques of HEA.

Research limitations/implications

The AlxCoCrCuFeNi HEA system, particularly the Al0.5CoCrCuFeNi HEA has been extensively studied, attributed to its mechanical and physical properties exceeding that of pure metals for aerospace turbine engine applications and the advances in the fabrication and surface modification processes of the alloy was outlined to show the latest developments focusing only on laser-based manufacturing processing due to its many advantages.

Originality/value

It is evident that high entropy materials are a potential innovative alternative to conventional superalloys for turbine engine applications via laser additive manufacturing.
Comparative study of the effect of crushed dune sand and limestone fillers on mortar properties in aggressive environment
Authors: Logbi Abdelaziz , Mani Mohamed , Choungara Toufik , Kriker Abdelouahed
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to study the effect of mineral additions on the mortars’ physical, mechanical and durability properties. Two local mineral additions, considered inert, are chosen: limestone fillers from North-East of Algeria and natural dune sand from Algerian desert areas.

Design/methodology/approach

Two local additions are finely crushed to a fineness greater or equal to that of the used cement and incorporated into the mortars with predetermined rates; (0, 10%, 15% and 20%) compared to the cement weight to examine their effects on the mortars’ properties at different ages. Two conservation environments are chosen: freshwater as a neutral area and rising water table as an aggressive area to appreciate the effect of the two additions on physical and mechanical properties and durability.

Findings

The results showed the beneficial effect of these additions on compactness, mechanical resistance and durability toward the rising water table. The results have also allowed us to make an experimental comparison between the limestone addition which is commonly used in the Algerian cement industry and the dune sand, which is not yet well explored and exploited.

Originality/value

The added value of this study is the use of crushed dune sand which is a local addition of southern Algeria for improving the resistance of mortars and concrete toward the aggressiveness of rising water table which presents a major problem for the infrastructure of civil and public construction.