bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of measles in southern Iran: trends, challenges, and vaccination insights
Authors: Hassani Azad Mehdi , Dehghani Sargazi Laya , Salari Mojtaba , Jahangiri Samaneh , Hashemi Seyyed Mohammad , Asadi Seyedeh Sahar , Ghaedi Hengami Ghasem , Ghazalgoo Arezoo , Keivanlou Mohammad-Hossein , Amini-Salehi Ehsan , Asadi Yousefabad Seyed Hossein
Published: April 2024

Background:

Measles, a highly contagious and vaccine-preventable disease, continues to present global public health challenges. This retrospective study focused on measles outbreaks in Hormozgan province, southern Iran, spanning from 2014 to 2019.

Methods:

Between 2014 and 2019, patients suspected of having measles, as reported by medical centers in Hormozgan, were subject to a comprehensive evaluation. The diagnosis of measles was conclusively established through the use of real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) testing. A detailed collection of pertinent data was undertaken. SPSS software, version 21, was employed for statistical analysis.

Results:

In the current study, out of 1291 clinically suspected measles cases, 151 were PCR-confirmed, with an average age of 16.77 years (±10.46), comprising 50.9% males and 49.1% females. The annual distribution showed varied incidence: 8.4% in 2014, peaking at 18.8% in 2015, then fluctuating to 11.4% in 2016, 0.8% in 2017, and 17.9% in 2018, with no cases in 2019. Among confirmed cases, 16.5% were vaccinated, while 68.2% were not, and 15.23% had unknown vaccination status.

Conclusion:

This retrospective study highlights the ongoing challenge of measles in Hormozgan province, Iran, from 2014 to 2019. Despite measles being preventable by vaccination, a significant number of cases were confirmed among both vaccinated and unvaccinated individuals, indicating gaps in immunization coverage and effectiveness. The fluctuating annual incidence, with a peak in 2015 and no cases in 2019, suggests variable success in disease control efforts. This underscores the need for enhanced surveillance, improved vaccination strategies, and public health interventions to effectively combat measles outbreaks in this region.
Safety of surgery: quality assessment of meta-analyses on the WHO checklist
Authors: González Mariño Mario Arturo
Published: April 2024

Objectives:

To assess the quality of the meta-analyses that review the WHO surgical safety checklist.

Methods:

A systematic review of meta-analysis studies was undertaken using the search terms “World Health Organization Surgical Safety Checklist” in PubMed, Embase, and Lilacs databases. The selected meta-analyses were rated using the AMSTAR 2 assessment tool.

Results:

In the three meta-analyses evaluated, the checklist was associated with a decrease in the rates of complications and mortality. Overall confidence in the results of the evaluated meta-analysis was critically low.

Conclusions:

The meta-analysis coincides with obtaining lower complications and mortality rates with the WHO surgical safety checklist. However, the studies included in the meta-analyses were mostly observational, with potential biases, and according to the AMSTAR 2 tool, the overall confidence in the results of the evaluated studies was critically low.
Concomitant tricuspid valve regurgitation repair in patients with minimally invasive mitral valve surgery: a single-centre experience in Vietnam
Authors: Dinh Nguyen Hoang , Chuong Pham Tran Viet , Hieu Le Chi , Thuan Phan Quang , Nam Nguyen Hoai
Published: April 2024

Background:

This study aims to present the early and mid-term outcomes of combining minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS) with tricuspid valve repair (TVR) at the authors’ centre.

Methods:

From January 2017 to March 2022, our centre treated a total of 67 patients with both MIMVS and TVR. Among these patients, 41 were women (61.2%), and 26 were men (38.8%). The average Euro SCORE II was 2.67±1.54%, and the patients had an average follow-up period of 25.45±16.2 months.

Results:

Pre-discharge echocardiography revealed no or mild TR in 82.8% of cases. The overall 30-day mortality rate was 4.5%, with 3 deaths. Five-year survival was 94.5%±3.2%. In patients with mild or moderate preoperative tricuspid regurgitation (TR), the 5-year survival rate was 95.7%±4.3%, while for those with severe TR, it was 93.7%±4.5% (P=0.947).

Conclusions:

The authors’ 5-year experience demonstrates that the combination of MIMVS and TVR can be routinely performed with favourable perioperative and postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing non-high-risk surgery. Additionally, there is no significant difference in five-year survival between the severe TR and mild to moderate TR groups preoperatively.
A Comprehensive Study of the Potential Compression Points of the Third Occipital Nerve and Its Possible Clinical Interests
Authors: Saglam Latif , Coskun Osman , Kale Aysin , Gayretli Ozcan
Published: April 2024

Background:

The anatomic features of the third occipital nerve (TON) are the least studied among the occipital nerves. This study aimed to analyze the anatomic features and potential compression points of the TON.

Methods:

The posterior neck and scalp of 39 cadavers were dissected. The TON was carefully followed from the emerging point from C2-C3 vertebrae distally. Its muscular investments were detected. The determined points were marked superficially and measured according to external occipital protuberance with Image J software.

Results:

The TON revealed 4 different potential entrapment points along its course. The most proximal point was between the C2 and C3 vertebrae. The second and third points were at their piercing points of semispinalis capitis and splenius capitis muscles, respectively. The final point was at its penetrating point of the trapezius muscle. The TON did not pierce the semispinalis capitis muscle on 6 sides, and pierced this muscle from 3 different points by splitting into 3 branches on 1 side. On 5 sides, the TON split into 2 branches and perforated the splenius capitis muscle from 2 different points.

Conclusions:

There were 4 potential compression points regarding the TON. These entrapment points and variations of the TON may play a significant role in understanding the reason for TON-related headaches and the treatment of headaches caused by the TON.
Invasive Streptococcus pyogenes Infection: A case report

Authors: BAZHAR SAMIA , ElBenaissi Yassine , Benaissa Elmostafa , Ben Lahlou Yassine , Chadli Mariama
Published: April 2024

The Group A Streptococcus, also known as Streptococcus pyogenes, is a human pathogen causing various infections, ranging from mild, such as tonsillitis and impetigo, to severe and invasive conditions like septicemia and necrotizing fasciitis. Despite a decline in incidence and severity during the 20th century due to antibiotics, there has been a reported increase in severe cases since the 1980s in industrialized countries. 
This summary highlights a case of invasive Group A Streptococcus infection in a 28-year-old diagnosed at the microbiology laboratory of the Mohammed V Military Training Hospital in Rabat, Morocco.
A 28-year-old patient, with a history of chickenpox, presented with acute febrile oligoarthritis. Following a recent flu-like syndrome and febrile tonsillitis, the patient experienced asymmetric inflammatory oligoarthralgia affecting the left knee, left ankle, and right shoulder, accompanied by functional impairment of the left lower limb. Upon admission, clinical examination revealed swelling, positive patellar tap, and sternal involvement. Laboratory and imaging findings indicated an abscessed collection in the left knee and anterior mediastinitis. Emergency aspirations revealed Group A Streptococcus, specifically Streptococcus pyogenes, leading to a diagnosis of septic arthritis. Dual antibiotic therapy and knee joint drainage resulted in symptom resolution after 45 days.
The rise in severe Group A Streptococcus infection underscores the need for early detection and treatment. Widely sharing the French High Council for Public Health’s antibiotic prophylaxis recommendations is crucial for awareness. Collaborating between clinicians and microbiologists is essential for effective management.
A comparative genomics approach reveals a local genetic signature of Leishmania tropica in Morocco
Authors: Talimi Hasnaa , Daoui Othmane , Bussotti Giovanni , Mhaidi Idris , Boland Anne , Deleuze Jean-François , Fissoune Rachida , Lemrani Meryem , F. Späth Gerald
Published: April 2024

In Morocco, cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) caused by Leishmania (L.) tropica is an important health problem. Despite the high incidence of CL in the country, the genomic heterogeneity of these parasites is still incompletely understood. In this study, we sequenced the genomes of 14 Moroccan isolates of L. tropica collected from confirmed cases of CL to investigate their genomic heterogeneity. Comparative genomics analyses were conducted by applying the recently established Genome Instability Pipeline (GIP), which allowed us to conduct phylogenomic and principal components analyses (PCA), and to assess genomic variations at the levels of the karyotype, gene copy number, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and small insertions/deletions (INDELs) variants. Read-depth analyses revealed a mostly disomic karyotype, with the exception of the stable tetrasomy of chromosome 31. In contrast, we identified important gene copy number variations across all isolates, which affect known virulence genes and thus were probably selected in the field. SNP-based cluster analysis of the 14 isolates revealed a core group of 12 strains that formed a tight cluster and shared 45.1 % (87 751) of SNPs, as well as two strains (M3015, Ltr_16) that clustered separately from each other and the core group, suggesting the circulation of genetically highly diverse strains in Morocco. Phylogenetic analysis, which compared our 14 L. tropica isolates against 40 published genomes of L. tropica from a diverse array of locations, confirmed the genetic difference of our Moroccan isolates from all other isolates examined. In conclusion, our results indicate potential regional variations in SNP profiles that may differentiate Moroccan L. tropica from other L. tropica strains circulating in endemic countries in the Middle East. Our report paves the way for future research with a larger number of strains that will allow correlation of diverse phenotypes (resistance to treatments, virulence) and origins (geography, host species, year of isolation) to defined genomic signals such as gene copy number variations or SNP profiles that may represent interesting biomarker candidates
Some newHaliclonaspecies (Demospongiae, Haplosclerida) from British Columbia Shallow Waters and a Re-Description ofHaliclona mollis(Lambe, 1893)
Authors: Ott Bruce , McDaniel Neil , Harbo Rick , MacIntosh Hugh
Published: April 2024

Background

A numer ofHaliclonaspecies (Demospongiae, Haplosclerida) in the Austin and McDaniel collections at the Royal British Columbia Museum (RBCM) are identified only to genus or genus and species. The collections are representative of over 40 years of sampling principally by the late Dr. William C. Austin and one of us (Neil McDaniel) through SCUBA diving on the west coast of British Columbia and specimens provided by others to Dr. Austin. We have selected representativeHaliclonaspecies in the collections for detailed examination and placement in subgenera and species (where species were not identified).Haliclonais recognized to have several subgenera, thus identification of specimens to genus and species is incomplete. Our study updates this status for the species examined.

Methods

Methods of collection included intertidal scrapings or removal of non-encrusting specimens usually accompanied by in-situ photos, similar methods at SCUBA diving depths (subtidal to 35 m) and from other dredging, trawling and biological sampling activities.

Results

We describe eleven newHaliclona(Demospongeae Haplosclerida Chalinadae) species and a range extension forHaliclona(Flagellia)edaphusde Laubenfels, 1930 for shallow waters of Southwestern British Columbia, Canada. New species includeHaliclona(Gellius)hartmanin. sp.,Haliclona(Gellius)shishalhensisn. sp.,Haliclona(Reniera)gestetan. sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)aborescensn. sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)blancan. sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)boothensisn. sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)filixn. sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)kunechinan.sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)meandrinan. sp.,Haliclona(Rhizoniera)penelakutan. sp., andHaliclona(Rhizoniera)vulcanan. sp.We also redescribeHaliclona mollis(Lambe, 1893 [1894]) and propose placing it in the subgenusHaliclona. Except for Lambe’s syntype slides ofHaliclona molliswhich are deposited at the Canadian Museum of Nature, Ottawa, Canada, all holotypes and voucher specimens of species described are deposited at RBCM.
First evidence of microplastics in human ovarian follicular fluid: an emerging threat to female fertility
Authors: Montano Luigi , Raimondo Salvatore , Piscopo Marina , Ricciardi Maria , Guglielmino Antonino , Chamayou Sandrine , Gentile Raffaella , Gentile Mariacira , Rapisarda Paola , Conti Gea Oliveri , Ferrante Margherita , Motta Oriana
Published: April 2024

Plastic pollution is a pressing global issue, with over 400 million tons produced annually and projections of 1.1 billion tons by 2050. Microplastics (MPs), ranging from 5 mm to 1 µm, are pervasive in the environment. They are found in air, sea, freshwater, soils, food chains and studies show that tiny MPs, smaller than 10 μm, can cross cellular membranes, posing potential health risks through oxidative stress, inflammation, immune dysfunction, neurotoxicity and reprotoxicity.

In recent years, research has shown that microplastics have negative effects on the female reproductive systems of animals. However, there is still a lack of evidence on how the accumulation of microplastics affects the reproductive health of human females. This study aimed to examine the presence of microplastics in the ovarian follicular fluid of 18 women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment whose samples were processed using a patented method endorsed nationally and internationally. Plastic particles <10 µm were measured using SEM with EDX detection. Preventive measures were taken to avoid contamination during the process. Microplastics (dimensions <10 µm) were detected in 14 out of 18 samples of follicular fluid, with an average of 2191 p/ml (0 - 7181p/ml) and with a mean diameter of MPs of 4.48 µm (3.18-5.54 µm). A significant correlation was found between microplastic concentration and FSH (p-value <0.05), as well as a weak correlation with BMI, age and Estradiol. There was no correlation with fertilization outcomes, miscarriages, or live birth. This is the first study to provide evidence for microplastics’ presence in ovarian follicular fluid in women undergoing assisted reproductive treatment, representing a potential threat to female reproductive function.

Abstract Figure
Increased fibrinaloid microclot counts in platelet-poor plasma are associated with Long COVID
Authors: Dalton Caroline F. , de Oliveira Madalena IR , Stafford Prachi , Peake Nicholas , Kane Binita , Higham Andrew , Singh Dave , Jackson Natalie , Davies Helen E. , Price David A. , Duncan Rae , Tattersall Nicola , Barnes Amanda , Smith David P.
Published: April 2024

Outcomes following SARS-CoV-2 infection are variable; whilst the majority of patients recover without serious complications, a subset of patients develop prolonged illness termed Long COVID or post-acute sequelae of SARS-CoV-2 infection (PASC). The pathophysiology underlying Long COVID remains unclear but appears to involve multiple mechanisms including persistent inflammation, coagulopathy, autoimmunity, and organ damage. Studies suggest that microclots, also known as fibrinaloids, play a role in Long COVID. In this context, we developed a method to quantify microclots and investigated the relationship between microclot counts and Long COVID. We show that as a cohort, platelet-poor plasma from Long COVID samples had a higher microclot count compared to control groups but retained a wide distribution of counts. Recent COVID-19 infections were also seen to be associated with microclot counts higher than the control groups and equivalent to the Long COVID cohort, with a subsequent time-dependent reduction of counts. Our findings suggest that microclots could be a potential biomarker of disease and/or a treatment target in some Long COVID patients.
Coupling between magnetic and thermodynamic properties in
RRh2Si2(R
= Dy, Ho)
Authors: Dawczak-Dębicki H. , Kliemt K. , Ale Crivillero M. V. , Küchler R. , Krellner C. , Stockert O. , Wirth S.
Published: April 2024

Single crystals of DyRh2Si2 and HoRh2Si2 were investigated by thermal expansion and magnetostriction. The different types of magnetic order can clearly be seen in these measurements, particularly the canting of the moments away from the crystallographic c direction below about 12 K and the spin flip for magnetic field applied along the c direction. For HoRh2Si2, an additional transition just below TN is analyzed by means of the Grüneisen ratio and is likely caused by a change in the magnetic structure. Our results nicely corroborate findings from other magnetic and thermodynamic measurements on these materials and provide further evidence suggesting the formation of magnetic domains.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Comparing planar quantum computing platforms at the quantum speed limit
Authors: Basilewitsch Daniel , Dlaska Clemens , Lechner Wolfgang
Published: April 2024

An important aspect that strongly impacts the experimental feasibility of quantum circuits is the ratio of gate times and typical error time scales. Algorithms with circuit depths that significantly exceed the error time scales will result in faulty quantum states and error correction is inevitable. We present a comparison of the theoretical minimal gate time, i.e., the quantum speed limit (QSL), for realistic two- and multi-qubit gate implementations in neutral atoms and superconducting qubits. Subsequent to finding the QSLs for individual gates by means of optimal control theory we use them to quantify the circuit QSL of the quantum Fourier transform and the quantum approximate optimization algorithm. In particular, we analyze these quantum algorithms in terms of circuit run times and gate counts both in the standard gate model and the parity mapping. We find that neutral atom and superconducting qubit platforms show comparable weighted circuit QSLs with respect to the system size.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Similarity between a many-body quantum avalanche model and the ultrametric random matrix model
Authors: Šuntajs Jan , Hopjan Miroslav , De Roeck Wojciech , Vidmar Lev
Published: April 2024

In the field of ergodicity-breaking phases, it has been recognized that quantum avalanches can destabilize many-body localization at a wide range of disorder strengths. This has in particular been demonstrated by the numerical study of a toy model, sometimes simply called the “avalanche model” or the “quantum sun model” [], which consists of an ergodic seed coupled to a perfectly localized material. In this paper, we connect this toy model to a well-studied model in random matrix theory, the ultrametric ensemble. We conjecture that the models share the following features. (1) The location of the critical point may be predicted sharply by analytics. (2) On the localized site, both models exhibit Fock space localization. (3) There is a manifold of critical points. On the critical manifold, the eigenvectors exhibit nontrivial multifractal behavior that can be tuned by moving on the manifold. (4) The spectral statistics at criticality is intermediate between Poisson statistics and random matrix statistics, also tunable on the critical manifold. We confirm numerically these properties.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Robust incoherent perfect absorption
Authors: Xu H. S. , Jin L.
Published: April 2024

A coherent perfect absorber is capable of completely absorbing input waves. However, the coherent perfect absorption severely depends on the superposition of the input waves, and the perfect absorption is sensitive to the disorder of the absorber. Thus, a robust incoherent perfect absorption, being insensitive to the superposition of input waves and the system disorder, is desirable for practical applications. Here, we demonstrate that the linearly independent destructive interference at the port connections removes the constraint on the coherent input. We propose an approach using the interplay between the loss and localization to form the incoherent perfect absorption. The resonant incidence from either port is completely absorbed. Furthermore, we utilize the lattice configuration supporting the flat band to demonstrate the disorder-immune incoherent perfect absorption. Our findings provide insight into the fundamentals and applications for the perfect absorption of light, microwaves, sound, mechanical waves, and beyond.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Global status of dataset repositories at a glance: study based on OpenDOAR
Authors: Sofi Ishrat Ayub , Bhat Ajra , Gulzar Rahat
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The study aims to shed light on the current state of “Dataset repositories” indexed in Directory of Open Access Repositories (OpenDOAR).

Design/methodology/approach

From each repository/record information, the Open-Access Policies, Open Archives Initiative Protocol for Metadata Harvesting (OAI-PMH), year of creation and the number of data sets archived in the repositories were manually searched, documented and analyzed.

Findings

Developed countries like the United Kingdom and the USA are primarily involved in the development of institutional open-access repositories comprising significant components of OpenDOAR. The most extensively used software is DSpace. Most data set archives are OAI-PMH compliant but do not follow open-access rules. The study also highlights the sites’ embrace of Web 2.0 capabilities and discovers really simple syndication feeds and Atom integration. The use of social media has made its presence known. Furthermore, the study concludes that the number of data sets kept in repositories is insufficient, although the expansion of such repositories has been consistent over the years.

Practical implications

The work has the potential to benefit both researchers in general and policymakers in particular. Scholars interested in research data, data sharing and data reuse can learn about the present state of repositories that preserve data sets in OpenDOAR. At the same time, policymakers can develop recommendations and policies to assist in the construction and maintenance of repositories for data sets.

Originality/value

According to the literature, there have been numerous studies on open-access repositories and OpenDOAR internationally, but no research has focused on repositories preserving content-type data sets. As a result, the study attempts to uncover various characteristics of OpenDOAR Data set repositories.
Retweet to donate? Cause-related marketing in the era of social medialization
Authors: Kim Shinhye , Bowen Melanie , Wen Xiaohan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The objectives of this study are threefold: to delineate the phenomenon of “You Share, We Donate” (YSWD) campaigns and what distinguishes them from sales-based cause-related marketing; to contrast the effectiveness of YSWD and sales-based cause-related marketing campaigns and provide an explanation for the differences in the effectiveness; to explore boundary conditions of the proposed differences.

Design/methodology/approach

Three experiments were conducted to empirically test the differential effect of campaign formats (i.e. YSWD vs sales-based cause-related marketing), the underlying mechanism and structural as well as contextual features moderating the differential effect.

Findings

The findings suggest that YSWD messages elicit consumers’ message-sharing intentions more than traditional cause-related marketing messages. The effect is explained by consumers’ sense of empowerment and can be enhanced through donation cap non-specification. The findings further indicate that YSWD campaigns are especially fruitful in low power distance cultures.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes toward corporate donation campaign literature by focusing on the usage of social media.

Practical implications

From a managerial perspective, this research provides marketers with guidelines on how to choose between the two cause-related marketing campaign formats and how to enhance the effectiveness of YSWD campaigns.

Originality/value

This paper extends cause-related marketing literature by not only introducing the phenomenon of YSWD campaigns to the literature but also exploring strategies to enhance the effectiveness of such campaigns and shedding light on an outcome beyond the sales impact of cause-related marketing campaigns, i.e. an increase of visibility in social media. From a managerial perspective, this research provides marketers with guidelines on how to choose between the two cause-related marketing campaign formats and how to enhance the effectiveness of YSWD campaigns.
AI-based virtual assistant and transformational leadership in social cognitive theory perspective: a study of team innovation in construction industry
Authors: Hui Zhang , Khan Naseer Abbas , Akhtar Maria
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study social based on cognitive theory (SCT), aims to better understand how transformational leadership affects team-level knowledge sharing and absorptive ability in the construction industry. It also examines the moderating influence of the AI-based virtual assistant on the indirect relationship between transformational leadership and team innovation through knowledge sharing and absorptive ability at the team level.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a simple random sample approach to gather data from several small and medium-sized construction firms in Anhui Province, China. A total of 407 respondents, including 89 site engineers and 321 team members, provided their responses on a five-point Likert scale questionnaire.

Findings

The findings showed that AI-based virtual assistants significantly moderated the direct and indirect association between transformational leadership and knowledge sharing, and subsequently with team innovation. Unexpectedly, the findings showed that AI-based virtual assistant did not moderate the direct relationship between transformational leadership and team-level absorptive capacity.

Originality/value

This study adds a fresh perspective to the literature on construction management by examining team innovation driven by transformational leadership through an underlying mechanism. It is unique in that it uses the team adaptation theory to investigate the understudied relationship between transformational leadership and team innovation in the construction industry.
Measuring the routine and non-routine task contents: a comparative study between state and industrial sector employees
Authors: Salimgereyev Narsymbat , Mukhamediyev Bulat , Shaikh Aijaz A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study developed new measures of the routine and non-routine task contents of managerial, professional, technical, and clerical occupations from a workload perspective. Here, we present a comparative analysis of the workload structures of state and industrial sector employees.

Design/methodology/approach

Our method involves detailed descriptions of work processes and an element-wise time study. We collected and analysed data to obtain a workload structure that falls within three conceptual task categories: (i) non-routine analytic tasks, (ii) non-routine interactive tasks and (iii) routine cognitive tasks. A total of 2,312 state and industrial sector employees in Kazakhstan participated in the study. The data were collected using a proprietary web application that resembles a timesheet.

Findings

The study results are consistent with the general trend reported by previous studies: the higher the job level, the lower the occupation’s routine task content. In addition, the routine cognitive task contents of managerial, professional, technical, and clerical occupations in the industrial sector are higher than those in local governments. The work of women is also more routinary than that of men. Finally, vthe routine cognitive task contents of occupations in administrative units are higher than those of occupations in substantive units.

Originality/value

Our study sought to address the challenges of using the task-based approach associated with measuring tasks by introducing a new measurement framework. The main advantage of our task measures is a direct approach to assessing workloads consisting of routine tasks, which allows for an accurate estimation of potential staff reductions due to the automation of work processes.
A comprehensive review of non-destructive methods for bearing lubricating oil film thickness measurement
Authors: Shang Fei , Sun Bo , Cai Dandan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the application of non-destructive testing methods in measuring bearing oil film thickness to ensure that bearings are in a normal lubrication state. The oil film thickness is a crucial parameter reflecting the lubrication status of bearings, directly influencing the operational state of bearing transmission systems. However, it is challenging to accurately measure the oil film thickness under traditional disassembly conditions due to factors such as bearing structure and working conditions. Therefore, there is an urgent need for a nondestructive testing method to measure the oil film thickness and its status.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper introduces methods for optically, electrically and acoustically measuring the oil film thickness and status of bearings. It discusses the adaptability and measurement accuracy of different bearing oil film measurement methods and the impact of varying measurement conditions on accuracy. In addition, it compares the application scenarios of other techniques and the influence of the environment on detection results.

Findings

Ultrasonic measurement stands out due to its widespread adaptability, making it suitable for oil film thickness detection in various states and monitoring continuous changes in oil film thickness. Different methods can be selected depending on the measurement environment to compensate for measurement accuracy and enhance detection effectiveness.

Originality/value

This paper reviews the basic principles and latest applications of optical, electrical and acoustic measurement of oil film thickness and status. It analyzes applicable measurement methods for oil film under different conditions. It discusses the future trends of detection methods, providing possible solutions for bearing oil film thickness detection in complex engineering environments.
Reducing data privacy breaches: an empirical study of relevant antecedents and an outcome
Authors: Ifinedo Princely , Vachon Francine , Ayanso Anteneh
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to increase understanding of pertinent exogenous and endogenous antecedents that can reduce data privacy breaches.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was used to source participants' perceptions of relevant exogenous and endogenous antecedents developed from the Antecedents-Privacy Concerns-Outcomes (APCO) model and Social Cognitive Theory. A research model was proposed and tested with empirical data collected from 213 participants based in Canada.

Findings

The exogenous factors of external privacy training and external privacy self-assessment tool significantly and positively impact the study's endogenous factors of individual privacy awareness, organizational resources allocated to privacy concerns, and group behavior concerning privacy laws. Further, the proximal determinants of data privacy breaches (dependent construct) are negatively influenced by individual privacy awareness, group behavior related to privacy laws, and organizational resources allocated to privacy concerns. The endogenous factors fully mediated the relationships between the exogenous factors and the dependent construct.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the budding data privacy breach literature by highlighting the impacts of personal and environmental factors in the discourse.

Practical implications

The results offer management insights on mitigating data privacy breach incidents arising from employees' actions. Roles of external privacy training and privacy self-assessment tools are signified.

Originality/value

Antecedents of data privacy breaches have been underexplored. This paper is among the first to elucidate the roles of select exogenous and endogenous antecedents encompassing personal and environmental imperatives on data privacy breaches.
The dual nature of “peculiar problems” in microfinancing: perspectives on market efficiency and public policy nexus
Authors: Singh Kuldeep
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The microfinancing sector is infamous for being prone to high credit risks due to loan defaults by its poor borrowers. Conversely, the sector is also criticized for creating debt traps for the poor. The dual nature of these peculiar problems in microfinancing causes the market failure phenomenon. Therefore, the current study explores whether public policy intervention is required to address market failure.

Design/methodology/approach

The study undertakes a critical review of existing literature, the news, the policy documents and other publicly available information to shape the viewpoints in this study. Constructive criticism is used to build arguments to arrive at a conceptual framework that depicts how public policy should interact with markets to address the peculiar problems of the microfinancing sector.

Findings

The findings indicate that market failure in microfinancing is real and pressing. Therefore, public policy is invited, though in its limited form. While the policy intervention may help the formal microfinancing arena by regulating the interest rates, the policy administration in the informal sector is likely to fail. Therefore, the policy should attempt to create an environment of inclusiveness. Policies that rely on coercion are not recommended. In the long run, subsidies via policy intervention are discouraged. Instead, the policy should motivate the microfinancing sector to become self-reliant.

Originality/value

The study is one of its kind to provide perspectives on specific market failures and policy interventions in microfinancing, particularly in economies where formal and informal sectors coexist and are equally crucial.
Exploring the characteristics of non-urban coworking spaces in Germany and their perceived benefits for corporate users: novel means for supporting corporate real estate management strategies
Authors: Vogl Thomas , Orel Marko , Appel-Meulenbroek Rianne
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to enrich our understanding of the characteristics of non-urban coworking spaces (CSs) that focus on corporate users, as well as the benefits that companies expect to gain from incorporating those CSs into their corporate real estate (CRE) portfolios.

Design/methodology/approach

This study leverages a series of in-depth interviews with owners and managers of CSs in non-urban locales that focus on serving corporate clients.

Findings

The research reveals various CS characteristics and forms within non-urban areas, focusing on corporate clients. It suggests that implementing a CS in corporate premises is perceived to enhance CRE use-value strategies with a focus on the employee's well-being, innovation and the attraction of talents. Moreover, exchange-value strategies with a focus on portfolio flexibility may benefit from the implementation of a CS. However, strategies related to life-cycle cost optimization or gains are not perceived to be supported. Social events for the surrounding neighborhood and the choice of location emerge as critical success factors for non-urban CSs. Besides infrastructure and connectivity, non-urban corporate-centric CSs built their location decisions rather on a personal connection to the location and place of residence of potential users than on lower rental prices.

Originality/value

This research pioneers in providing a comprehensive understanding of non-urban CSs, particularly in the context of their perceived implications for corporate real estate management. The nuanced perspectives it offers are invaluable for stakeholders looking to leverage CSs as part of their corporate strategies.
Understanding the behavioural drivers of mindful consumption: a study on the use of sustainable menstrual products
Authors: Lathabhavan Remya , Lathabhavan Revathy
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The adverse environmental impacts of menstrual products are a significant concern because of their widespread use and non-biodegradability. With various global and regional initiatives on sustainability, there is now greater public awareness about environmental protection. This heightened awareness has resulted in the exploration of alternative methods to reduce waste, such as the development and use of sustainable menstrual products. This study aims to examine the factors that influence Indian women’s purchasing intention in relation to sustainable menstrual products. The study uses the Stimulus–Organism–Behavior–Consequence (SOBC) theory as the appropriate grounded theory to explain these determinants.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross-sectional data were collected from 720 women who have been using sustainable menstrual products. For analysing the model, the study performed structural equation modelling using AMOS.

Findings

The study’s results indicated that health consciousness, sustainability knowledge and environmental responsibility are positively associated with self-identity and mindfulness. Additionally, the study found that organism states have a positive impact on the purchase intention of sustainable menstrual products. Furthermore, there was a significant relationship observed between purchase intention and mindful consumption. The study also discovered significant positive relationships between satisfaction and key associations.

Originality/value

This study may be considered pioneering, as it establishes a connection between the usage of sustainable menstrual products and concepts such as mindfulness and mindful consumption.
Social engineering awareness and resilience in Egypt: a quantitative exploration
Authors: Shehata Ahmed , Eldakar Metwaly
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Social engineering is crucial in today’s digital landscape. As technology advances, malicious individuals exploit human judgment and trust. This study explores how age, education and occupation affect individuals’ awareness, skills and perceptions of social engineering.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative research approach was used to survey a diverse demographic of Egyptian society. The survey was conducted in February 2023, and the participants were sourced from various Egyptian social media pages covering different topics. The collected data was analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics, including independent samples t-test and ANOVA, to compare awareness and skills across different groups.

Findings

The study revealed that younger individuals and those with higher education tend to research social engineering more frequently. Males display a higher level of awareness but score lower in terms of social and psychological consequences as well as types of attacks when compared to females. The type of attack cannot be predicted based on age. Higher education is linked to greater awareness and ability to defend against attacks. Different occupations have varying levels of awareness, skills, and psychosocial consequences. The study emphasizes the importance of increasing awareness, education and implementing cybersecurity measures.

Originality/value

This study’s originality lies in its focus on diverse Egyptian demographics, innovative recruitment via social media, comprehensive exploration of variables, statistical rigor, practical insights for cybersecurity education and diversity in educational and occupational backgrounds.
In-situ synthesis of SiO2 aerogel/polyethylene terephthalate composite slices and their fibers
Authors: Yang Fukang , Wang Wenjun , Yan Yongjie , Dong YuBing
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) as a fiber molding polymer is widely used in aerospace, electrical and electronic, clothing and other fields. The purpose of this study is to improve the thermal insulation performance of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), the SiO2 aerogel/PET composites slices and fibers were prepared, and the effects of the SiO2 aerogel on the morphology, structure, crystallization property and thermal conductivity of the SiO2 aerogel/PET composites slices and their fibers were systematically investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

The mass ratio of purified terephthalic acid and ethylene glycol was selected as 1:1.5, which was premixed with Sb2O3 and the corresponding mass of SiO2 aerogel, and SiO2 aerogel/PET composites were prepared by direct esterification and in-situ polymerization. The SiO2 aerogel/PET composite fibers were prepared by melt-spinning method.

Findings

The results showed that the SiO2 aerogel was uniformly dispersed in the PET matrix. The thermal insulation coefficient of PET was significantly reduced by the addition of SiO2 aerogel, and the thermal conductivity of the 1.0 Wt.% SiO2 aerogel/PET composites was reduced by 75.74 mW/(m · K) compared to the pure PET. The thermal conductivity of the 0.8 Wt.% SiO2 aerogel/PET composite fiber was reduced by 46.06% compared to the pure PET fiber. The crystallinity and flame-retardant coefficient of the SiO2 aerogel/PET composite fibers showed an increasing trend with the addition of SiO2 aerogel.

Research limitations/implications

The SiO2 aerogel/PET composite slices and their fibers have good thermal insulation properties and exhibit good potential for application in the field of thermal insulation, such as warm clothes. In today’s society where the energy crisis is becoming increasingly serious, improving the thermal insulation performance of PET to reduce energy loss will be of great significance to alleviate the energy crisis.

Originality/value

In this study, SiO2 aerogel/PET composite slices and their fibers were prepared by an in situ polymerization process, which solved the problem of difficult dispersion of nanoparticles in the matrix and the thermal conductivity of PET significantly reduced.
Towards a sustainable future: a comprehensive review of Green Sukuk
Authors: Alkadi Rotana S.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Green sukuk (GS) is an emerging financial tool that has gained momentum in recent years owing to increased attention being given to Islamic finance, socially responsible investing (SRI) and sustainability agendas. Yet, GS studies are fragmented, dispersed and lack comprehensive reviews. As a response to this gap in academia, this paper aims to synthesize the knowledge on GS into thematic clusters, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the subject and offering guidelines for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This study implemented a systematic literature review approach to analyse studies on GS that were published prior to and including June 2023. The PRISMA 2020 protocol was used in the sample selection process. A total of 62 peer-reviewed journal articles from six databases were identified and categorized into various themes.

Findings

The results suggest that previous research has predominantly focused on the areas of GS advantages, drivers, market development and potential sectors, along with challenges and recommendations to improve the market. However, it was found that some other aspects, including GS pricing, performance and purchasing intention, require further research attention. The analysis also indicated that the use of theories in the GS context was limited, with only five theories employed in just four out of the 62 articles examined. Moreover, this paper’s findings revealed that the studies employing quantitative and empirical analysis methods were limited to four articles. Geographically, most of the studies were conducted in Indonesia and Malaysia, while other countries with high-potential markets (e.g. GCC) had limited GS practices and studies.

Practical implications

The results of this study have several practical implications. For investors, a review of GS will provide greater insight into the understanding of the GS market, helping them make better investment decisions. For policymakers, this paper empowers them with the knowledge to make informed decisions regarding GS markets by highlighting key recommendations identified in the literature. Finally, the proposed guidelines can be used in future research.

Originality/value

While Green Bonds have received significant attention, there is a dearth of research on GS and those that exist are fragmented. A systematic literature review is necessary to identify knowledge gaps for future research.
Microorganisms uniquely capture and predict stony coral tissue loss disease and hurricane disturbance impacts on US Virgin Island reefs
Authors: Becker Cynthia C. , Weber Laura , Llopiz Joel K. , Mooney T. Aran , Apprill Amy
Published: April 2024

Coral reef ecosystems are now commonly affected by major climate and disease disturbances. Disturbance impacts are typically recorded using reef benthic cover, but this may be less reflective of other ecosystem processes. To explore the potential for reef water‐based disturbance indicators, we conducted a 7‐year time series on US Virgin Island reefs where we examined benthic cover and reef water nutrients and microorganisms from 2016 to 2022, which included two major disturbances: hurricanes Irma and Maria in 2017 and the stony coral tissue loss disease outbreak starting in 2020. The disease outbreak coincided with the largest changes in the benthic habitat, with increases in the percent cover of turf algae and Ramicrusta, an invasive alga. While sampling timepoint contributed most to changes in reef water nutrient composition and microbial community beta diversity, both disturbances led to increases in ammonium concentration, a mechanism likely contributing to observed microbial community shifts. We identified 10 microbial taxa that were sensitive and predictive of increasing ammonium concentration. This included the decline of the oligotrophic and photoautotrophic Prochlorococcus and the enrichment of heterotrophic taxa. As disturbances impact reefs, the changing nutrient and microbial regimes may foster a type of microbialization, a process that hastens reef degradation.