bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Complex bacterial diversity of Guaymas Basin hydrothermal sediments revealed by synthetic long-read sequencing (LoopSeq)
Authors: Hinkle John E. , Chanton Jeffrey P. , Moynihan Molly A. , Ruff S. Emil , Teske Andreas
Published: April 2024

Hydrothermal sediments host phylogenetically diverse and physiologically complex microbial communities. Previous studies of microbial community structure in hydrothermal sediments have typically used short-read sequencing approaches. To improve on these approaches, we use LoopSeq, a high-throughput synthetic long-read sequencing method that has yielded promising results in analyses of microbial ecosystems, such as the human gut microbiome. In this study, LoopSeq is used to obtain near-full length (approximately 1400 - 1500 nucleotides) bacterial 16S rRNA gene sequences from hydrothermal sediments in Guaymas Basin. Based on these sequences, high-quality alignments and phylogenetic analyses provided new insights into previously unrecognized taxonomic diversity of sulfur-cycling microorganisms and their distribution along a lateral hydrothermal gradient. Detailed phylogenies for free-living and syntrophic sulfur-cycling bacterial lineages identified well-supported monophyletic clusters that have implications for the taxonomic classification of these groups. Particularly, we identify clusters withinCandidatusDesulfofervidus that represent unexplored physiological and genomic diversity. In general, LoopSeq-derived 16S rRNA gene sequences aligned consistently with reference sequences in GenBank; however, chimeras were prevalent in sequences as affiliated with the thermophilicCandidatusDesulfofervidus andThermodesulfobacterium, and in smaller numbers within the sulfur-oxidizing familyBeggiatoaceae. Our analysis of sediments along a well-documented thermal and geochemical gradient show how sulfur-cycling bacteria of different taxonomic groups persist as active catalysts of the sulfur cycle throughout surficial hydrothermal sediments in the Guaymas Basin.
Fetal programming by the parental microbiome of offspring behavior, and DNA methylation and gene expression within the hippocampus
Authors: Gustafson Kevin L. , Busi Susheel Bhanu , McAdams Zachary L. , McCorkle Rachael E. , Khodakivskyi Pavlo , Bivens Nathan J. , Davis Daniel J. , Raju Murugesan , Coghill Lyndon M. , Goun Elena A. , Amos-Landgraf James , Franklin Craig L. , Wilmes Paul , Cortese Rene , Ericsson Aaron C.
Published: April 2024

Background

The microorganisms colonizing the gastrointestinal tract of animals, collectively referred to as the gut microbiome, affect numerous host behaviors dependent on the central nervous system (CNS). Studies comparing germ-free mice to normally colonized mice have demonstrated influences of the microbiome on anxiety-related behaviors, voluntary activity, and gene expression in the CNS. Additionally, there is epidemiologic evidence supporting an intergenerational influence of the maternal microbiome on neurodevelopment of offspring and behavior later in life. There is limited experimental evidence however directly linking the maternal microbiome to long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes, or knowledge regarding mechanisms responsible for such effects.

Results

Here we show that that the maternal microbiome has a dominant influence on several offspring phenotypes including anxiety-related behavior, voluntary activity, and body weight. Adverse outcomes in offspring were associated with features of the maternal microbiome including bile salt hydrolase activity gene expression (bsh), abundance of certain bile acids, and hepatic expression ofSlc10a1. In cross-foster experiments, offspring resembled their birth dam phenotypically, despite faithful colonization in the postnatal period with the surrogate dam microbiome. Genome-wide methylation analysis of hippocampal DNA identified microbiome- associated differences in methylation of 196 loci in total, 176 of which show conserved profiles between mother and offspring. Further, single-cell transcriptional analysis revealed accompanying differences in expression of several differentially methylated genes within certain hippocampal cell clusters, and vascular expression of genes associated with bile acid transport.

Inferred cell-to-cell communication in the hippocampus based on coordinated ligand-receptor expression revealed differences in expression of neuropeptides associated with satiety.

Conclusions

Collectively, these data provide proof-of-principle that the maternal gut microbiome has a dominant influence on the neurodevelopment underlying certain offspring behaviors and activities, and selectively affects genome methylation and gene expression in the offspring CNS in conjunction with that neurodevelopment.
High-throughput Tn-seq screens identify both known and novelPseudomonas putidaKT2440 genes involved in metal resistance
Authors: Royet Kevin , Kergoat Laura , Lutz Stefanie , Oriol Charlotte , Parisot Nicolas , Schori Christian , Ahrens Christian H. , Rodrigue Agnes , Gueguen Erwan
Published: April 2024

Chemical waste with toxic effects is released into the environment by industrial and urban activities.Pseudomonas putida, a rhizosphere bacterium, harbors a wide variety of genes capable of degrading hydrocarbons and xenobiotic compounds in its natural environment. This bacterium harbors also a large set of metal resistance genes. Most studies that identify genes involved in metal resistance inP. putidafocus on over/underexpressed genes and may miss other genes important for metal resistance whose expression does not change. In this study, we used a Tn-seq approach to determine the essential genome ofP. putidarequired for growth in the presence of an excess of metals in a culture medium. Tn-seq enables the detection of mutants with reduced or increased fitness in the presence of metal excess. We validated our screen by identifying known metal resistance gene such asczcA-1(PP_0043),cadA-3(PP_5139),cadR(PP_5140) andpcoA2(PP_5380). Their mutants were underrepresented in the presence of zinc, cadmium (forcadA-3andcadR) or copper respectively. In this study, we demonstrate by targeted mutagenesis and complementation assay thatPP_5337andPP_0887are putative transcriptional regulators involved in copper and cadmium resistance, respectively, inP. putida. The study revealed the role of two genes,PP_1663andPP_5002, in cadmium and cobalt resistance respectively. This is the first evidence linking these genes to metal resistance and highlights the incomplete understanding of metal resistance mechanisms inP. putida.
Chalkophore mediated respiratory oxidase flexibility controlsM. tuberculosisvirulence
Authors: Buglino John A. , Ozakman Yaprak , Hatch Chad , Benjamin Anna , Tan Derek , Glickman Michael S.
Published: April 2024

Oxidative phosphorylation has emerged as a critical therapeutic vulnerability ofM. tuberculosis(Mtb). However, it is unknown how intracellular bacterial pathogens such as Mtb maintain respiration during infection despite the chemical effectors of host immunity.Mtbsynthesizes diisonitrile lipopeptides that tightly chelate copper, but the role of these chalkophores in host-pathogen interactions is also unknown. We demonstrate thatM. tuberculosischalkophores maintain the function of the heme-copperbcc:aa3respiratory oxidase under copper limitation. Chalkophore deficiency impairs Mtb survival, respiration to oxygen, and ATP production under copper deprivation in culture, effects that are exacerbated by loss of the heme dependent Cytochrome BD respiratory oxidase. Our genetic analyses indicate that maintenance of respiration is the only cellular target of chalkophore mediated copper acquisition.M. tuberculosislacking chalkophore biosynthesis is attenuated in mice, a phenotype that is also severely exacerbated by loss of the CytBD respiratory oxidase. We find that the host immune pressure that attenuates chalkophore deficientMtbis independent of adaptive immunity and neutrophils. These data demonstrate that chalkophores counter host inflicted copper deprivation and highlight a multilayered system by whichM. tuberculosismaintains respiration during infection.
Molecular basis of foreign DNA recognition by BREX anti-phage immunity system
Authors: Drobiazko Alena , Adams Myfanwy , Skutel Mikhail , Potekhina Kristina , Matlashov Mikhail , Maxwell Karen L. , Blower Tim R. , Severinov Konstantin , Ghilarov Dmitry , Isaev Artem
Published: April 2024

Anti-phage systems of the BREX (BacteRiophage EXclusion) superfamily rely on epigenetic DNA methylation to discriminate between the host and invading DNA, but their mechanism of protection remains enigmatic. We demonstrate that in Type I BREX systems, both defense and methylation are based on site-specific DNA recognition by the BrxX (PglX) methyltransferase and require the S-adenosyl methionine cofactor. We present a 2.2-Å cryoEM structure ofEscherichia coliBrxX bound to target dsDNA, which reveals the molecular details of DNA recognition by BREX and paves the way for rational engineering of BREX specificity. We show that BrxX alone does not support methylation, and BREX activity requires an assembly of a supramolecular BrxBCXZ immune complex. Finally, we present a cryoEM structure of BrxX bound to a phage-encoded inhibitor Ocr that sequesters an inactive dimeric form of BrxX. Together, these results allow us to propose a model of BREX-mediated DNA sensing and anti-phage defense.
Unveiling the role of social media and females’ intention to buy online cosmetics
Authors: Khan Ariba , Khan Zebran , Nabi Mohammed Kamalun , Saleem Imran
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to propose and test an extended theory of planned behavior model to explain the significance of social media influencers’ credibility, social media usage (SMU) and social media marketing while simultaneously examining females’ intentions to purchase cosmetics online.

Design/methodology/approach

An online questionnaire was used to collect data from 386 female consumers of cosmetics, and the data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with the help of SmartPLS version 4.

Findings

First, the results indicated that SMU, social media influencers’ credibility and social media marketing significantly and positively impact the theory of planned behavior components, namely, attitude, subjective norms (SNs) and perceived behavioral control (PBC). Second, results confirmed that attitude, SNs and PBC significantly and positively influenced female consumers’ online purchase intentions (OPIs).

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the first to examine an integrated model that consisted of SMU, social media marketing and social media influencers along with the theory of planned behavior constructs in their proposed research model in the context of cosmetics in India. The study also enriched the body of knowledge about using the PLS-SEM approach to predict OPI for cosmetics.
“Our stories are different but our situations are the same”: gendered experiences finding housing
Authors: Crocker Diane , Dej Erin
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the gendered nature of housing insecurity by investigating how gender affects women’s experience moving from transitional to market housing. By describing women’s pathways out of supportive or transitional housing support, the authors show how patriarchal forces in housing policies and practices affect women’s efforts to find secure housing. The authors argue that gender-neutral approaches to housing will fail to meet women’s needs.

Design/methodology/approach

This study explores the narratives from women accessing support services in Halifax, Canada. The first author conducted deep narrative interviews with women seeking to move from transition to market housing.

Findings

This research sheds light on the effects of gendered barriers to safe, suitable and affordable housing; how women’s experiences and expectations are shaped by these barriers; and, how housing-based supports must address the uniquely gendered experiences women face as they access market housing. In addition, this research reveals the importance of gender-responsive services that empower women facing a sexist housing market.

Originality/value

Little research has explored questions related to gender and housing among those seeking to move from transitional to marker housing, and existing research focuses on women’s housing insecurity as it relates to domestic violence. The sample of women included those having housing insecurity for a variety of reasons, including substance use and young motherhood.
Permeability estimation for deformable porous media with convolutional neural network
Authors: Shi Kunpeng , Jin Guodong , Yan Weichao , Xing Huilin
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Accurately evaluating fluid flow behaviors and determining permeability for deforming porous media is time-consuming and remains challenging. This paper aims to propose a novel machine-learning method for the rapid estimation of permeability of porous media at different deformation stages constrained by hydro-mechanical coupling analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

A convolutional neural network (CNN) is proposed in this paper, which is guided by the results of finite element coupling analysis of equilibrium equation for mechanical deformation and Boltzmann equation for fluid dynamics during the hydro-mechanical coupling process [denoted as Finite element lattice Boltzmann model (FELBM) in this paper]. The FELBM ensures the Lattice Boltzmann analysis of coupled fluid flow with an unstructured mesh, which varies with the corresponding nodal displacement resulting from mechanical deformation. It provides reliable label data for permeability estimation at different stages using CNN.

Findings

The proposed CNN can rapidly and accurately estimate the permeability of deformable porous media, significantly reducing processing time. The application studies demonstrate high accuracy in predicting the permeability of deformable porous media for both the test and validation sets. The corresponding correlation coefficients (R2) is 0.93 for the validation set, and the R2 for the test set A and test set B are 0.93 and 0.94, respectively.

Originality/value

This study proposes an innovative approach with the CNN to rapidly estimate permeability in porous media under dynamic deformations, guided by FELBM coupling analysis. The fast and accurate performance of CNN underscores its promising potential for future applications.
Irreversibility analysis of Darcy-Forchheimer flow of a Williamson hybrid nanofluids near a stagnation-point across a vertical plate with buoyancy force
Authors: Alharbi Latifah Falah , Khan Umair , Zaib Aurang , Ishak Anuar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

A novel type of heat transfer fluid known as hybrid nanofluids is used to improve the efficiency of heat exchangers. It is observed from literature evidence that hybrid nanofluids outperform single nanofluids in terms of thermal performance. This study aims to address the stagnation point flow induced by Williamson hybrid nanofluids across a vertical plate. This fluid is drenched under the influence of mixed convection in a Darcy–Forchheimer porous medium with heat source/sink and entropy generation.

Design/methodology/approach

By applying the proper similarity transformation, the partial differential equations that represent the leading model of the flow problem are reduced to ordinary differential equations. For the boundary value problem of the fourth-order code (bvp4c), a built-in MATLAB finite difference code is used to tackle the flow problem and carry out the dual numerical solutions.

Findings

The shear stress decreases, but the rate of heat transfer increases because of their greater influence on the permeability parameter and Weissenberg number for both solutions. The ability of hybrid nanofluids to strengthen heat transfer with the incorporation of a porous medium is demonstrated in this study.

Practical implications

The findings may be highly beneficial in raising the energy efficiency of thermal systems.

Originality/value

The originality of the research lies in the investigation of the Darcy–Forchheimer stagnation point flow of a Williamson hybrid nanofluid across a vertical plate, considering buoyancy forces, which introduces another layer of complexity to the flow problem. This aspect has not been extensively studied before. The results are verified and offer a very favorable balance with the acknowledged papers.
Decarbonising transportation: empirical insights into electric vehicles, carbon emissions and energy consumption
Authors: Das Pabitra Kumar , Bhat Mohammad Younus , Gupta Sonal , Gaine Javeed Ahmad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the links between carbon emissions, electric vehicles, economic growth, energy use, and urbanisation in 15 countries from 2010 to 2020.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts seminal panel methods of moments quantile regression with fixed effects to trace the distributional aspect of the relationship. The reliability of methods is confirmed via fully modified ordinary least squares coefficients.

Findings

This study reveals that fossil fuel use, economic activity, and urbanisation negatively impact environmental quality, whereas renewable energy sources have a significant positive long-term effect on environmental quality in the selected panel of countries.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is the generalisability of the findings, as the study is confined to a limited number of countries, and focuses on non-renewable and renewable energy sources.

Practical implications

Finally, this study proposes several policy recommendations for decision-makers and policymakers in the 15 nations to address climate change, boost sales of electric vehicles, and increase the use of renewable energy sources.

Originality/value

This study calls for a comprehensive transition towards green energy in the transportation sector, enhancing economic growth, fostering employment opportunities, and improving environmental quality.
The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on TOM in the housing market
Authors: Choudhury Askar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic, a sudden and disruptive external shock to the USA and global economy, profoundly affected various operations. Thus, it becomes imperative to investigate the repercussions of this pandemic on the US housing market. This study investigates the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on a crucial facet of the real estate market: the Time on the Market (TOM). Therefore, this study aims to ascertain the net effect of this unprecedented event after controlling for economic influences and real estate market variations.

Design/methodology/approach

Monthly time series data were collected for the period of January 2010 through December 2022 for statistical analysis. Given the temporal nature of the data, we conducted the Durbin–Watson test on the OLS residuals to ascertain the presence of autocorrelation. Subsequently, we used the generalized regression model to mitigate any identified issues of autocorrelation. However, it is important to note that the response variable derived from count data (specifically, the median number of months), which may not conform to the normality assumption associated with standard regression models. To better accommodate this, we opted to use Poisson regression as an alternative approach. Additionally, recognizing the possibility of overdispersion in the count data, we also explored the application of the negative binomial model as a means to address this concern, if present.

Findings

This study’s findings offer an insightful perspective on the housing market’s resilience in the face of COVID-19 external shock, aligning with previous research outcomes. Although TOM showed a decrease of around 10 days with standard regression and 27% with Poisson regression during the COVID-19 pandemic, it is noteworthy that this reduction lacked statistical significance in both models. As such, the impact of COVID-19 on TOM, and consequently on the housing market, appears less dramatic than initially anticipated.

Originality/value

This research deepens our understanding of the complex lead–lag relationships between key factors, ultimately facilitating an early indication of housing price movements. It extends the existing literature by scrutinizing the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the TOM. From a pragmatic viewpoint, this research carries valuable implications for real estate professionals and policymakers. It equips them with the tools to assess the prevailing conditions of the real estate market and to prepare for potential shifts in market dynamics. Specifically, both investors and policymakers are urged to remain vigilant in monitoring changes in the inventory of houses for sale. This vigilant approach can serve as an early warning system for upcoming market changes, helping stakeholders make well-informed decisions.
Ascertaining factors inducing engagement and stay intention among Gen Z: a qualitative study in the Indian context
Authors: Das Arnab Kumar , Malik Pooja
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify specific factors that facilitate engagement and stay intention among Generation Z employees in the Indian banking, financial services and insurance (BFSI) context. Furthermore, using the frequency distribution of the identified factors, this study has ranked them in order of their association with stay intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 22 Gen Z employees working in the Indian private BFSI sector using unstructured interviews. Inductive content analysis was applied to identify the factors improving engagement and stay intention. Moreover, quantitative content analysis was applied to calculate the frequency distribution of the identified factors.

Findings

The study identified six prominent factors, namely, transformational leadership, employee investment practices, egalitarian practices, work-life balance, job crafting and sustainability, which significantly enhance employee engagement and stay intention among Gen Z employees. Moreover, based on the results of quantitative content analysis, it was found that transformational leadership exhibited the highest frequency in association with employee engagement and stay intention. Following this were employee involvement, egalitarian practices, work-life balance, job crafting and sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

In the coming days, Generation Z will contribute to almost one-third of India’s workforce, of which the BFSI sector will be the major employer. However, the issue with this generation is their retention. Hence, the study identifies factors ensuring engagement and stay intention.

Originality/value

Owing to the paucity of research on stay intention as a variable of interest, this study tries to capture the perceptions of Gen Z towards factors inducing their engagement and stay intention. This study assesses intention to stay (ITS) as compared to intention to leave (ITL) as it is a proactive indicator of turnover. Lastly, this study uses a qualitative approach to identify factors influencing stay intention and engagement based on interactions with employees, which, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, no prior study has attempted.
An overview of waste in the context of Islamic economics and heterodox approaches: on common discourses
Authors: Yilmaz Ekrem
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the viewpoints of heterodox economic thoughts and Islamic economic thought concerning the concept of waste. Additionally, it explores the shared criticisms that both perspectives hold against mainstream economic thought in relation to waste.

Design/methodology/approach

First of all, the concept of waste is examined and the global effects of waste are investigated. Criticisms directed in the context of waste in mainstream economics in the context of heterodox school thoughts are examined. Likewise, criticisms directed in the context of waste in mainstream economics in the context of Islamic economic thoughts are examined. Finally, the common and different aspects of heterodox and Islamic economic thoughts were discussed, and the common criticisms of mainstream economic thought’s point of view toward waste were examined. This study is a theoretical, qualitative study.

Findings

Although both ideas have different aspects, heterodox and Islamic economic thoughts believe that the mainstream economy, which is based on capitalism and materialism, creates waste by ignoring the long-term social and environmental consequences of economic activity. They argue that the pursuit of profits and growth, without considering the impact on society and the environment, leads to an inefficient and unsustainable use of resources.

Originality/value

The best author’s knowledge, by emphasizing the common and different aspects of Islamic economics and heterodox thoughts, this study is the first to examine the concept of waste in the context of the common aspects of these ideas.
‘It is successful, and if it is successful, it reduces crime, and it can make the victims happier’: volunteers’ perceptions of working in restorative justice
Authors: Kitson-Boyce Rosie , Athwal-Kooner Palwinder
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the experiences of those volunteering within a restorative justice service thus enabling an insight into their perceptions of the different methods used, their beliefs about restorative justice effectiveness, and its place within the criminal justice system. The study also sought to identify any challenges and positive experiences the participants encountered during their role as volunteers, with volunteering during the COVID-19 pandemic explored specifically.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from the participants (n = 5) via semi-structured interviews and analysed using thematic analysis, thus enabling patterns within the experience of the volunteers to be identified.

Findings

A prior understanding and interest in restorative justice was evident within the data, with participants demonstrating a preference for direct, face-to-face mediation. The perceived lack of support from external agencies was discussed along with the role of education in their volunteering experience. Finally, it was acknowledged that although face-to-face practice was deemed the most effective overall, certain practices adopted during COVID-19 enabled aspects of the role to be carried out more efficiently and equally as effectively.

Practical implications

The findings from this study draw out real-world implications, producing tangible action points for restorative justice services. Some tentative suggestions for future practice are outlined.

Originality/value

The volunteers’ role within restorative justice is often overlooked within the literature (Paul and Borton, 2013) and time constraints can add additional barriers to a hard-to-reach population. However, volunteers play a vital role in restorative justice. By exploring and listening to the volunteers’ experience, this study expands an additional strand within the literature in terms of what makes restorative justice effective and the challenges that are faced from a volunteer perspective.
Indonesia Shariah Stock Index (ISSI) firms and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) disclosure in Indonesia
Authors: Gati Vidia , Harymawan Iman , Nasih Mohammad
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship of Indonesia’s Sharia Stock Index (ISSI) firms on environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure. This study is interesting because ISSI firms are supposed to comply with Islamic values as this has been reflected in good corporate governance activities, demonstrating responsibility to others and participating in preserving nature/environmental activities.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use sample firms that are listed on the Indonesia Shariah-compliant Stock Index (ISSI) from 2011 to 2020, which also published sustainability reports.

Findings

The study found that sharia firms are positively related to ESG disclosure. The authors also found that ESG disclosure of sharia firms is more pronounced in the reporting section of general, economic, environmental and social. Other findings suggest differences in the segments reported in the COVID and pre-COVID periods. This result is also robust by conducting a self-selection bias test with Heckman’s two-stage regression and Coarsened Exact Matching regression.

Practical implications

For policymakers, these results indicate that different characteristics of firms can affect ESG disclosure, and economic conditions will determine which sectors are disclosed the most.

Originality/value

This study provides empirical evidence that Indonesian Shariah-compliant stock index firms carried out their mission to disclose more information about their environmental and social responsibilities and governance issues.
Online cash waqf behavioral intention: the role of knowledge of cash waqf and trust
Authors: Asyari Asyari , Hoque Mohammad Enamul , Susanto Perengki , Begum Halima , Awaluddin Awaluddin , Marwan Marwan , Mamun Abdullah Al
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the determinants that impact state Islamic University/Perguruan Tinggi Keagamaan Islam Negeri students’ intention to adopt online cash waqfs. In doing so, this study integrates knowledge of cash waqf and trust variables within the theory of planned behavior (TPB), allowing an examination of the mediating role of TPB variables and trust within the relationship between knowledge of cash waqf and intention for online cash waqf behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

To carry out an empirical analysis, the authors developed a well-structured questionnaire and distributed it to a group of students currently enrolled in PTKIN, obtaining 443 usable responses. The partial least squares-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique was used for the dual purposes of data analysis and hypothesis testing.

Findings

This study demonstrates that factors such as attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control, trust and knowledge of cash waqf have a significant and favorable influence on the intention to donate through e-cash waqf. Knowledge of cash waqf impacts attitudes, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and trust. The final analysis shows that attitude, subjective norms, perceived behavioral control and trust partially mediate the relationship between knowledge and intention in the online cash waqf context.

Practical implications

The aforementioned elucidates the paramount importance of trust in shaping individuals’ tendencies to engage in cash waqfs. The insights mentioned have the potential to be used by cash waqf establishments to promote transparency and accountability, ultimately bolstering the confidence of potential donors.

Originality/value

The concepts of waqf and the use of online cash waqf as a means of donation in developing countries are relatively new. In this study, the intention of students to adopt online cash waqf was predicted for the first time by considering their knowledge of cash waqf and their trust in online cash waqf transactions.
Dynamic relationship between workplace friendship and knowledge-sharing behavior: formation, development and decline
Authors: Wang Yanling , Lin Qin , Zhang Shihan , Chen Nannan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to empirically examine the cause–effect relationships between workplace friendship and knowledge-sharing behavior, from a static perspective. Furthermore, it investigates the bi-directional relationship between the increase in both workplace friendship and knowledge-sharing behavior over same time periods, and also endeavors to identify whether there is a significant negative lagged effect of the increase in both workplace friendship on knowledge-sharing behavior, and vice versa, across time from a dynamic perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The study conducts a three-wave questionnaire survey to test the research model. A latent change score approach was used to test the direct relationship between changes in workplace friendship and changes in knowledge-sharing behavior.

Findings

The findings reveal that knowledge-sharing behavior fosters workplace friendship and workplace friendship promotes the emergence of knowledge-sharing behavior. An increase in workplace friendship promotes an increase in knowledge-sharing behavior over same time periods. However, an increase in workplace friendship will lead to a lagged decrease of knowledge-sharing behavior across time, and vice versa.

Research limitations/implications

The time interval in this study is a little short to capture the full changes in workplace friendship. Some important control factors and mediating mechanisms are not included in the research model.

Practical implications

This study guides managers to focus on various motivators to better strengthen workplace friendship and knowledge-sharing behavior and to consider and effectively respond to the negative side of workplace friendship and knowledge-sharing behavior across time.

Originality/value

This study emphasizes the predictivity of one important interaction patterns, namely, knowledge-sharing behavior on friendship at the workplace, from a static perspective. This study also shows the benefits of an increase in workplace friendship for the development of knowledge-sharing behavior in the same time period. Furthermore, the study presents a counterintuitive finding when taking the lag effect into consideration in exploring the relationship between changes both in workplace friendship and knowledge-sharing behavior, and identifies a negative side of both when viewed over longer periods.
Female entrepreneurship and entrepreneurial ecosystems
Authors: Kakeesh Dana F.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to delve into the lived experiences, challenges and visions of women entrepreneurs in Jordan, placing a magnifying glass on those spearheading or co-pioneering start-ups. It aims to understand the myriad factors that influence their entrepreneurial journey, from motivation to the future of their niche.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a qualitative lens, this study is anchored in semi-structured interviews encompassing 20 Jordanian women entrepreneurs. Following this, thematic analysis was deployed to dissect and categorize the garnered insights into ten salient themes.

Findings

The study reveals that personal experiences and challenges are pivotal in directing these women towards niche markets, aligning with the theory of planned behaviour (TPB). Tools such as digital instruments, customer feedback and innovative strategies like storytelling and augmented reality are integral to their entrepreneurial success, resonating with the resource-based view (RBV). Additionally, challenges like cultural barriers and infrastructural limitations are navigated through adaptive strategies, reflecting the resilience inherent in these entrepreneurs. Networking, mentorship, embracing technological advancements and implementing sustainable practices are highlighted as crucial elements underpinned by the social identity theory (SIT).

Originality/value

Contrary to the extant body of research, this study provides new insights into the challenges faced by women entrepreneurs in Jordan, highlighting the practical relevance of theories like TPB, RBV and SIT for both policymakers and the start-up community in niche markets.
How can service organizations build resilience by leveraging capabilities and service worker team knowledge?
Authors: Prayag Girish , Ozanne Lucie K. , Chowdhury Mesbahuddin
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Grounded in dynamic capabilities theory, this study aims to examine how dynamic capabilities and a transactive memory system (TMS) can build the resilience of service organizations and improve their financial performance. Limited studies examine the link between a TMS and organizational resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test a theoretical model on a sample of 350 UK service firms that were impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic and analyze the data using partial least square structural equation modeling.

Findings

Results highlight the positive effects of a TMS and dynamic capabilities on organizational resilience. Only a TMS and organizational resilience have direct positive effects on financial performance.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to ascertain the influence of a TMS on organizational resilience in service firms following adversity.
Role of green awareness and green behaviour in fostering sustainable consumption in India
Authors: Naini Shalini Reddy , Reddy M. Ravinder
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to determine the solutions to address the Indian attitude-behaviour inconsistency in the green purchasing context and provide the possible combinations of antecedents that aid Indian marketers in designing promotional and advertising strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

A non-probability criterion-based sampling technique was used in collecting the data across Hyderabad city of Telangana region through online survey technique. The respondents were the customers who were attracted towards green and eco-friendly products. A total of 129 responses were received. SPSS v26 software was used to conduct the descriptive analysis, and the two-step analysis approach of the measurement and structural model was conducted in SmartPLS.

Findings

Results indicate that interpersonal influence has a greater direct influence on green purchase behaviour (GPB); altruism’s influence on green purchase intention (GPI) and GPB is through environmental attitude (EA) and green awareness (GA). EA has a significant influence on GA and green behaviour (GB). The GA and GB individually act as potential mediators between EA and green consumption behaviour (GCB) variables. Perceived environmental knowledge (PEK) does not influence GPB directly or indirectly. Altruism still ranks at the fifth position among the six antecedents, indicating reciprocal determinism and not an altruistic purchase approach in the Telangana region.

Social implications

The results of this study may be used by government agencies and policymakers to launch awareness campaigns aimed at educating the public and encouraging green buying practices among broader societal segments. These kinds of programmes could lessen the harm that inconsiderate consumption habits do to the environment and to society, increase the green behaviour practices like planting trees, and recycling, and also increase the consumer’s PEK.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the present study is the first to apply reciprocal deterministic theory along with theory of planned behaviour to predict Indian GCB and address the attitude-behaviour gap. Moreover, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to investigate together the direct and indirect influence of altruism, interpersonal influence and perceived environmental knowledge on green purchase behaviour. Given the growing trend of consumers adopting an eco-friendly mind-set, a novel approach to empirically discuss the behavioural and personal factors will give research the much-needed boost it needs.
Determinants of funding intention of crowdfunding campaigns from India – a subregional cultural variation and transnational migrants perspective
Authors: Agnihotri Arpita , Bhattacharya Saurabh , Vrontis Demetris
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore how sub-national or regional cultural differences influence backers’ willingness to crowdfund projects. The paper also explores how migrant transnationalism influences the impact of backer’s sub-national culture and crowdfunding relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the experimental design technique using analysis of covariance methods. The authors tested the study hypotheses on a sample of 790 respondents.

Findings

The study results suggest that individuals differ in their intent to crowdfund product campaigns depending on value congruence between their cultural values derived from the region to which they belong and the nature of the product category, such as environmentally friendly or happiness-enhancing products.

Originality/value

This paper explores the role of regional cultural differences in determining the intention to crowdfund different campaigns based on the nature of the product. Value congruence, as driven by regional cultural differences with crowdfunding campaigns, has not been explored before.
Association between inflammatory potential of diet and anthropometric indicators of adiposity among a sample of Turkish university
Authors: Ozcaliskan Ilkay Hatice , Cicek Betul
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The inflammatory potential of diet may play a role in the regulation of low-grade chronic inflammation derived from obesity. This study aims to investigate the relationship between the dietary inflammatory index (DII) and anthropometric indicators of adiposity among Turkish adults.

Design/methodology/approach

The study sample consisted of 833 young adults (mean age = 23 ± 5.2 years). The inflammatory potential of the diet was evaluated with a DII. Data on dietary intake were collected by a single 24-h dietary recall, and DII was estimated from 25 dietary components. Also, the Mediterranean diet (Med-Diet) adherence screener was applied using the 14-item assessment tool.

Findings

The proinflammatory diet was statistically associated with young (p < 0.001), singles (p < 0.001), high school degree (p = 0.011), students (p < 0.001), not working or unemployed (p < 0.001), eating outside (p = 0.016) and lower adherence to a Med-Diet (p = 0.027). There was a statistically significant positive relationship between the DII score and body weight (BW), waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) (r = 0.107; p = 0.002, r = 0.092; p = 0.008, r = 0.115; p = 0.001, respectively). Besides, there was a statistically significant negative relationship between MED score and BW, WHtR and neck circumference (r = −0.101; p = 0.004, r = −0.084; p = 0.016, r = −0.175; p = 0.000, respectively).

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this was the first Turkish study to assess the association between the anthropometric indicators of obesity and DII or adherence to Med-Diet in young adults. Lower DII scores and higher adherence to Med-Diet are related to the better status of anthropometric indicators of adiposity.
Evaluation of storage stability of dietary fibre incorporated aerobically packaged spent hen meat snacks at ambient temperature
Authors: Choubey Vaishali , Tomar Serlene , Yadav Surbhi , Gupta Bhavana , Khare Ankur , Singh Pradeep Kumar , Meshram Somesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study was to produce a healthier, convenient and traditional ready-to-eat (RTE) snack option with increased nutritional value, using spent hen meat, dietary fibre (DF) and simple technological methods. The product was designed to be stable without refrigeration and be easily adoptable by local self-help groups, rural women and youth and entrepreneurs in urban and semi-urban areas.

Design/methodology/approach

Conventional binder used for making snacks, i.e. rice flour was partially replaced by different sources of antioxidant DFs, i.e. oat flour (T1 – 10%), finger millet flour (T2 – 5%) and amaranth flour (T3 –15%) to prepare spent hen snack sticks (SHSS). The snacks were then packaged in low density polyethylene (LDPE) pouches and evaluated for their storage stability at ambient temperature for a period of 35 days. Their physico-chemical, sensory and microbiological quality was evaluated at a regular interval of 7 days. The proximate composition of developed SHSS was compared to commercially available snack products (chakli/murukku – snacks without meat).

Findings

The fibre-enriched SHSS showed significant improvement in nutritive value, as they contained more fibre (p = 0.001) and protein (p = 0.029) than control SHSS. When compared to commercially available snack product SHSS showed three-fold significant increase in protein (p = 0.000) and ash content (p = 0.001) and only 11%–12% total fat as compared to 31% fat in the market-available product. The most acceptable treatment in terms of overall sensory quality and nutritional aspects was T3; however, T2 was more shelf-stable during the storage period. The study showed that fibre-enriched snacks can be stored at ambient temperature for up to 35 days without substantial loss in physico-chemical, sensory and microbial quality. Hence, substituting rice flour with DFs can lead to the development of products with better sensory attributes and improved functionality.

Social implications

The simplicity of the product in terms of composition, machinery and low production costs makes it an easily adoptable one by small-scale entrepreneurs, especially those belonging to semi-urban areas.

Originality/value

Incorporation of spent hen meat, a relatively cheap but abundant source of protein, in RTE products can serve as an effective way to alleviate protein malnutrition, whereas addition of fibre further improves the functionality of the product. The methodology can be easily taken up by small-scale entrepreneurs and create a market for snack-based functional meat products.
Revise, redUX, re-cycle: iterative website usability studies in an assessment cycle
Authors: DeStasio Joyce Galletta , Jeitner Eric
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the process, findings and conclusions from one library’s iterative usability study of its website design to inform other libraries as they perform their own assessments.

Design/methodology/approach

A task-completion usability study was conducted with eight undergraduate students across two iterations: the first gauged the usability of a redesigned library website and the second gauged the effectiveness of the first iteration’s findings.

Findings

We found that users performed better when the site provided multiple access points to the same information, displayed a prominent chat feature, limited the amount of text on a given page and avoided library jargon. Not only was the second round of testing important for confirming that first-round recommendations were effective but also it proved useful in catching a problem with the site that was unintentionally created during the time between tests.

Research limitations/implications

No demographic data were collected during the study, thus hindering our ability to analyze our users through these data points.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the value of iterative usability testing, especially when untested changes made between site versions may produce usability issues.