bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hypothalamic hormone deficiency enables physiological anorexia
Authors: Mohr Sarah M. , Pra Rafael Dai , Platt Maryann P. , Feketa Viktor V. , Shanabrough Marya , Varela Luis , Kristant Ashley , Cao Haoran , Merriman Dana K. , Horvath Tamas L. , Bagriantsev Sviatoslav N. , Gracheva Elena O.
Published: March 2023

Mammalian hibernators survive prolonged periods of cold and resource scarcity by temporarily modulating normal physiological functions, but the mechanisms underlying these adaptations are poorly understood. The hibernation cycle of thirteen-lined ground squirrels(Ictidomys tridecemlineatus)lasts for 5–7 months and comprises weeks of hypometabolic, hypothermic torpor interspersed with 24–48-hour periods of an active-like interbout arousal (IBA) state. We show that ground squirrels, who endure the entire hibernation season without food, have negligible hunger during IBAs. These squirrels exhibit reversible inhibition of the hypothalamic feeding center, such that hypothalamic arcuate nucleus neurons exhibit reduced sensitivity to the orexigenic and anorexigenic effects of ghrelin and leptin, respectively. However, hypothalamic infusion of thyroid hormone during an IBA is sufficient to rescue hibernation anorexia. Our results reveal that thyroid hormone deficiency underlies hibernation anorexia and demonstrate the functional flexibility of the hypothalamic feeding center.
Ultrafast and long-range coordination of wound responses is essential for whole-body regeneration
Authors: Fan Yuhang , Chai Chew , Li Pengyang , Zou Xinzhi , Ferrell James E. , Wang Bo
Published: March 2023

Injury induces systemic, global responses whose functions remain elusive. In addition, mechanisms that rapidly synchronize wound responses through long distances across the organismal scale are mostly unknown. Using planarians, which have extreme regenerative ability, we report that injury induces Erk activity to travel in a wave-like manner at an unexpected speed (∼1 mm/h), 10-100 times faster than those measured in other multicellular tissues. This ultrafast signal propagation requires longitudinal body-wall muscles, elongated cells forming dense parallel tracks running the length of the organism. Combining experiments and computational models, we show that the morphological properties of muscles allow them to minimize the number of slow intercellular signaling steps and act as bidirectional superhighways for propagating wound signals and instructing responses in other cell types. Inhibiting Erk propagation prevents cells distant to the wound from responding and blocks regeneration, which can be rescued by a second injury to distal tissues within a narrow time window after the first injury. These results suggest that rapid responses in uninjured tissues far from wounds are essential for regeneration. Our findings provide a mechanism for long-range signal propagation in large and complex tissues to coordinate cellular responses across diverse cell types, and highlights the function of feedback between spatially separated tissues during whole-body regeneration.
Length-dependent translation efficiency of ER-destined proteins
Authors: Sahinbegovic Hana , Vdovin Alexander , Snaurova Renata , Durech Michal , Nezval Jakub , Sobotka Jiri , Hajek Roman , Jelinek Tomas , Simicek Michal
Published: March 2023

Gene expression resulting in the generation of new proteins is a fundamental process critical for every living organism. Particularly in eukaryotic cells, complex organization of the cell body requires fine-tuning of every step prior to de novo protein synthesis. To ensure proper localization, certain mRNAs possess unique signal sequence, which destinies the translation apparatus to the specific organelle. Here we focus on the mechanisms governing the translation of signal sequence-bearing mRNAs, which encode proteins targeted to the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). The binding of a signal-recognition particle (SRP) to the translation machinery halts protein synthesis until the mRNA-ribosome complex reaches ER membrane. The commonly accepted model suggests that mRNA containing the ER signal peptide continuously repeats the cycle of SRP binding followed by association and dissociation with ER. In contrast with the current view, we show that the long mRNAs remain on the ER while being translated. On the other hand, due to a low ribosome occupancy, the short mRNAs continue the cycle always facing the translation pause. Ultimately, this leads to a significant drop in the translation efficiency of small, ER-targeted proteins. The proposed mechanism advances our understanding of selective protein synthesis in eukaryotic cells and provides new avenues to enhance protein production in biotechnological settings.
Measuring preservice science teachers’ performance on engineering design process tasks: implications for fostering STEM education
Authors: Shahat Mohamed A. , Al-Balushi Sulaiman M. , Al-Amri Mohammed
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the current study is to assess Omani teachers’ performance on tasks related to the stages of engineering design. To achieve this, data from an engineering design test was used, and demographic variables that are correlated with this performance were identified.

Design/methodology/approach

This descriptive study employed a cross-sectional design and the collection of quantitative data. A sample of preservice science teachers from Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) (n = 70) participated in this study.

Findings

Findings showed low and moderate levels of proficiency related to the stages of engineering design. Differences between males and females in terms of performance on engineering design tasks were found, with females scoring higher overall on the assessment. Biology preservice teachers scored higher than teachers from the other two majors (physics and chemistry) in two subscales. There were also differences between teachers studying in the Bachelor of Science (BSc) program and the teacher qualification diploma (TQD) program.

Originality/value

This study provides an overview, in an Arab setting, of preservice science teachers’ proficiency with engineering design process (EDP) tasks. It is hoped that the results may lead to improved instruction in science teacher training programs in similar contexts. Additionally, this research demonstrates how EDP competency relates to preservice teacher gender, major and preparation program. Findings from this study will contribute to the growing body of research investigating the strengths and shortcomings of teacher education programs in relation to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education.
A bibliometric analysis of digital technologies use in construction health and safety
Authors: Dobrucali Esra , Sadikoglu Emel , Demirkesen Sevilay , Zhang Chengyi , Tezel Algan , Kiral Isik Ates
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Construction is a risky industry. Therefore, organizations are seeking ways towards improving their safety performance. Among these, the integration of technology into health and safety leads to enhanced safety performance. Considering the benefits observed in using technology in safety, this study aims to explore digital technologies' use and potential benefits in construction health and safety.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive bibliometrics analysis was conducted to reveal which technologies are at the forefront of others and how these technologies are used in safety operations. The study used two different databases, Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus, to scan the literature in a systemic way.

Findings

The systemic analysis of several studies showed that the digital technologies use in construction are still a niche theme and need more assessment. The study provided that sensors and wireless technology are of utmost importance in terms of construction safety. Moreover, the study revealed that artificial intelligence, machine learning, building information modeling (BIM), sensors and wireless technologies are trending technologies compared to unmanned aerial vehicles, serious games and the Internet of things. On the other hand, the study provided that the technologies are even more effective with integrated use like in the case of BIM and sensors or unmanned aerial vehicles. It was observed that the use of these technologies varies with respect to studies conducted in different countries. The study further revealed that the studies conducted on this topic are mostly published in some selected journals and international collaboration efforts in terms of researching the topic have been observed.

Originality/value

This study provides an extensive analysis of WoS and Scopus databases and an in-depth review of the use of digital technologies in construction safety. The review consists of the most recent studies showing the benefits of using such technologies and showing the usage on a systemic level from which both scientists and practitioners can benefit to devise new strategies in technology usage.
IMSI Indore: coping with COVID-19 VUCA in higher education
Authors: Shroff Arvind , Karthik BSS , Rai Himanshu
Published: March 2023

Learning outcomes

This comprehensive case has been written for an undergraduate-level course on general management and a post-graduate-level course on organizational behavior and strategic management. After working through the case and conducting an in-depth discussion of the assignment questions, students will be able to do the following: 1. perform a comprehensive assessment of the institute’s internal context to measure its resources and preparedness to deal with COVID-19; 2. apply organizational change frameworks (to understand the trigger of the change, type of change and change process); 3. qualitatively analyze the dynamic capabilities and resources available to reopen the institute; and 4. suggest ways to institutionalize agility in the organization to improve the preparations and future responses to student management on campus based on a thorough analysis.

Case overview/synopsis

Founded in 1996, the Indian Managerial Studies Institute, Indore, has emerged as a leader in management education by appropriately weaving the pertinent roles of industry, government and PSUs into a common thread. With the onset of COVID-19 in March 2020, IMSI Indore began to respond to educational and administrative challenges by building on resilient strategies. Two decision-making situations cropped up as the situation improved and again converged to the more lethal second wave in March 2021. Dr Hemant Vishwas, Dean of IMSI Indore, needed to determine whether the institute should continue with the reduced employee and hybrid classroom model or reopen with full-fledged operations for the following academic year.

Complexity academic level

This comprehensive case has been written considering the teaching pedagogy for an undergraduate-level course on organizational behavior (organizational development and change module) and a post-graduate-level course on organizational behavior and strategic management. This case is suitable for courses on organizational development, change and strategy implementation. Organizational behavior and organizational development and change can be used to understand the core concepts of the change content and process, i.e. the scope and scale of the change. The case also touches on inducing a dynamic change in response to the pandemic in an educational setting, teaching the concepts of dynamic capabilities. It is also expected to be useful for teaching courses related to operations strategies in educational services for executive degree programs and faculty development workshops.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 6: Human Resource Management.
Authentic talent development in sociocultural context: interdisciplinary perspectives
Authors: Debebe Gelaye
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to describe how the multidisciplinary studies in the special issue expand and enrich the framework of authentic talent development in sociocultural context.

Design/methodology/approach

The study presents a framework of authentic talent development in sociocultural context and identifies key themes from the seven interdisciplinary studies of the special issue to enrich and expand our understanding of sociocultural barriers to authentic talent development for individuals from low-income and minoritized communities, including women.

Findings

The studies included in the special issue illustrate several ways in which social identity ascription truncates the talent trajectory of individuals from low-income and minoritized groups. They also show how ascription processes can be mitigated through policy, reformed organizational structure and practice and growth fostering relationships.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper have implications for developing strategies to mitigate social identity ascription in talent development in the domains of public policy, schooling and the workplace.

Originality/value

The special issue brings together contributions from multiple disciplines to holistically understand the nature of social identity ascription in talent development across the life course. Collectively, the contributions identify a number of complimentary tools at several levels that might allow effective mitigation of social identity ascription processes, facilitating authentic talent development for individuals from low-income and minoritized communities.
A fuzzy logic approach for measuring flood resilience at community level in Nigeria
Authors: Olatunji Ezekiel Olaoluwa , Adebimpe Oluseye Adewale , Oladokun Victor Oluwasina
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Flood resilience is a critical concept in flood risk management (FRM). Meanwhile, flood resilience measurement has become vital for making the business case for investment in FRM. However, information is sparse on measuring the level of resilience of flood-prone communities in Nigeria. Therefore, this study aims to develop a fuzzy logic-based model for measuring the resilience of flood-prone communities towards achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 11 and 13.

Design/methodology/approach

This study describes the development of a fuzzy logic-based flood resilience measuring model, drawing on a synthesis of fuzzy logic literature and extant flood resilience. A generalisation of the flood system for a typical Nigerian community was made. It was followed by an identification and characterisation of the variables and parameters of the system based on SDGs 11 and 13. The generated data was transformed into a fuzzy inference system (FIS) using three input community flood resilience dimensions: natural, socio-technical and socio-economic factors (SEF). The model was then validated with primary data obtained from selected flood-prone communities in Ibadan, Southwest Nigeria. Expert opinions were used in rating the input dimensions for the selected communities.

Findings

In spite of various inputs from experts in the same study area (Apete, Ibadan, Nigeria), the resulting FIS generated consistent resilience indices for various natural, socio-technical and SEF. This approach can strengthen flood resilience measurement at the community level.

Originality/value

Although previous attempts have been made to measure flood resilience at the individual property level (Oladokun et al., 2017; Adebimpe et al., 2020), this research focuses on measuring flood resilience at the community level by adapting the fuzzy logic approach. The fuzzy logic-based model can be a tool for flood resilience measurement at the community level. It can also be developed further for regional and national level applications.
Blockchain-enabled supply chain operations and financing: the perspective of expectancy theory
Authors: Song Hua , Han Siqi , Yu Kangkang
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study examines the cognitive factors of adopting blockchain technology in various supply chain scenarios and its role in reframing the distinctive values of supply chain financing. Based on expectancy theory, this study explores the different profiles underlying the components of expectancy, valence and instrumentality.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a multiple-case study of four Fintech companies using blockchain technology to promote the performance of supply chain operations and financing.

Findings

The results show that blockchain-enabled supply chain finance (BSCF) can be classified into four scenarios based on the scope and purpose of blockchain technology applications. The success of BSCF depends on the profiles of BSCF expectancy (the recognized purpose and scope of BSCF), instrumentality (identified blockchain attributes and other technology combinations) and valence (the perceived distinctive value of BSCF). Blockchain attributes help solve information asymmetry problems and enhance financing performance in two ways: one is supporting transparency, traceability and verification of transmissions and the other entails facilitating a transformation to new business models.

Originality/value

This research applies a new perspective based on expectancy theory to study how cognitive factors affect Fintech companies' blockchain solutions under a given supply chain operation or financing activity. It explains the behavioral antecedents for applying blockchain technology, the situations appropriate for the different roles of blockchain technology and the profiles for realizing the value of blockchain technology.
Insights into customers' psychological mechanism in facial recognition payment in offline contactless services: integrating belief–attitude–intention and TOE–I frameworks
Authors: Shiau Wen-Lung , Liu Chang , Zhou Mengru , Yuan Ye
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Facial recognition payment is an emerging mobile payment method that uses human biometrics for personal identification. The purpose of this study is to examine how users' salient beliefs regarding the technology–organization–environment–individual (TOE–I) dimensions affect their attitudes and how attitudes subsequently influence the intention to use facial recognition payment in offline contactless services.

Design/methodology/approach

This study comprehensively investigates customers' decision-making psychological mechanism of using facial recognition payment by integrating the belief–attitude–intention (B–A–I) model and the extended TOE–I framework. Data from 420 valid samples were collected through an online survey and analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

Research results indicate that convenience and perceived herd exert positive effects on trust and satisfaction. Meanwhile, familiarity has a significantly positive effect only on trust but not on satisfaction. In contrast, perceived privacy risk exhibits a negative effect on both trust and satisfaction. Trust and satisfaction positively influence the intention to use facial recognition payment. Unexpectedly, self-awareness negatively moderates the effect of satisfaction on intention to use, but its effect on the relationship between trust and intention to use is non-significant.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is one of the early studies that explicate customers' psychological mechanism in facial recognition payment in offline contactless services through an understanding of the B–A–I causal linkages with the identification of users' perceptions from a comprehensive context-specific perspective. This study enriches the literature on facial recognition payment and explores the moderating role of self-awareness in the relationship between users' attitudes and intention to use, thereby revealing a complex psychological process in the usage of offline facial recognition payment systems.
Risk committee characteristics and risk disclosure in banks: evidence from an emerging economy
Authors: Hasan Arshad , Sufi Usman , Hussainey Khaled
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the impact of risk committee characteristics on the risk disclosure of banking institutions in an emerging economy, Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

The data are collected through a manual content analysis of 21 banks regulated by the State Bank of Pakistan over the period 2011–2020. The study utilizes the generalized least square (GLS) regression model as the method of analysis.

Findings

The study finds that risk committee size is positively associated with risk disclosure, which is in line with agency theory. However, risk committee independence and risk committee gender diversity are negatively associated with risk disclosure. This contradicts the theoretical perspective and is explained by the weak regulatory framework of Pakistan.

Research limitations/implications

This study was carried out in a single research setting, which limits the generalizability of its findings to other developed and emerging economies.

Practical implications

The results provide valuable insights for regulators by identifying the attributes that require regulatory focus to strengthen risk committees and enhance risk disclosure practices within the banking sector of Pakistan. The findings highlight the effectiveness of the risk committee size, call for fully independent risk committees and encourage greater representation of women in these committees.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the corporate governance literature by empirically examining the risk committee characteristics and their impact on the risk disclosure of banks in an emerging economy. Moreover, this study contributes to theory by utilizing upper echelon theory in addition to agency theory as the motivation for the study.
Introducing smart services: requirements and interconnections in multi-actor cooperation
Authors: Momeni Khadijeh , Vaittinen Eija , Jähi Markus , Martinsuo Miia
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Smart services have gained attention both among academics and practitioners, but manufacturing firms struggle in getting their new smart services extensively adopted by customers, employees and distributors. The purpose of this paper is to identify and analyse the requirements of different actors and the interconnectedness between their requirements in introducing smart services.

Design/methodology/approach

An embedded single-case study was conducted with a manufacturing firm and its network, including its sales and service personnel, customers and external salespeople. Data were collected via 30 in-depth interviews.

Findings

The paper advances the multi-actor perspective by identifying the requirements of key actors for introducing smart services. These requirements were divided into eight categories: value of smart services, reliability of smart services, competence for smart services, data security and management, attitude towards services, reliance, knowledge of installed base of equipment and services and service reputation. The findings reveal the interconnectedness of different actors’ requirements for introducing new smart services and how discussion and relationships between actors affected their requirements.

Practical implications

The findings represent a comprehensive template of requirements, as well as mapping the interconnectedness of actors’ requirements, serving as a practical guideline for managers.

Originality/value

This study characterises the introduction of smart services as a multi-dimensional, interconnected effort by manufacturing firms and their networks. It shows that service introduction cannot be viewed as manufacturer’s development task or customers’ adoption decision only. Propositions are offered on how multiple actors’ viewpoints can be combined to achieve success in introducing smart services.
The development of a competence framework for artificial intelligence professionals using probabilistic topic modelling
Authors: Brauner Sonja , Murawski Matthias , Bick Markus
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The current gap between the required and available artificial intelligence (AI) professionals poses significant challenges for organisations and academia. Organisations are challenged to identify and secure the appropriate AI competencies. Simultaneously, academia is challenged to design, offer and quickly scale academic programmes in line with industry needs and train new generations of AI professionals. Therefore, identifying and structuring AI competencies is necessary to effectively overcome the AI competence shortage.

Design/methodology/approach

A probabilistic topic model was applied to explore the AI competence categories empirically. The authors analysed 1159 AI-related online job ads published on LinkedIn.

Findings

The authors identified five predominant competence categories: (1) Data Science, (2) AI Software Development, (3) AI Product Development and Management, (4) AI Client Servicing, and (5) AI Research. These five competence categories were summarised under the developed AI competence framework.

Originality/value

The AI competence framework contributes to clarifying and structuring the diverse AI landscape. These findings have the potential to aid various stakeholders involved in the process of training, recruiting and selecting AI professionals. They may guide organisations in constructing a complementary portfolio of AI competencies by helping users match the right competence requirements with an organisation's needs and business objectives. Similarly, they can support academia in designing academic programmes aligned with industry needs. Furthermore, while focusing on AI, this study contributes to the research stream of information technology (IT) competencies.
Inflation in Iran: an empirical assessment of the key determinants
Authors: Hemmati Maryam , Tabrizy Saleh S. , Tarverdi Yashar
Published: March 2023

Purpose

To study the key determinants of chronically high inflation in Iran.

Design/methodology/approach

Relying on annual data from 1978 to 2019, the authors employ an Auto-Regressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) model and Error Correction Model (ECM) to study the inflationary effects of monetary and fiscal policies as well as exchange rate swings and sanctions intensification.

Findings

The authors find that increase in money supply, depreciation of nominal exchange rate, increase in fiscal deficit and intensification of sanctions are among the key drivers of inflation in Iran. Their impact is profound in the long run, but in the short run only money supply and currency depreciation are significant. Also, when exploring the inflation in different components of Consumer Price Index (CPI), we find robust long- and short-run effects from money supply and exchange rate, while the effects of fiscal deficit and sanctions vary across different components.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the literature by setting apart the long-vs short-run effects of key variables on inflation in Iran. The authors also employ improved measures of fiscal deficit and sanctions that are shown to be of significance in the long run. Lastly, the authors go beyond the aggregate index and examine the variations in different CPI components.
Rethinking research methods in protracted violent conflicts in Mozambique: fieldwork in complex emergencies
Authors: Chirambwi Kudakwashe
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper argues for the need to use multiple sources and methods that respond to research challenges presented by new forms of war. There are methodological constraints and contention on the superiority given to positivist and interpretivist research designs when doing fieldwork in war situations, hence there is a need to use integrated data generation techniques. The combined effect of severe limitations of movement for both the researcher and researched fragmented data because of polarized views about the causes of the war and unpredictable events that make information hard to come by militate against systematic, organised and robust data generation. The purpose of this paper, therefore, is to make fieldwork researchers understand significant research problems unique to war zones.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was guided by the postmodernist mode of thought which challenges standardised research traditions. Fieldwork experiences in Cabo suggest the need to use the composite strategies that rely on the theoretical foundation of integrative and creative collection of data when doing research in violent settings.

Findings

The fieldwork experiences showed that the standardised, conventional and valorised positivist and ethnographic research strategies may not sufficiently facilitate understanding of the dynamics of war. There should not be firm rules, guidelines or regulations governing the actions of the researcher in conflict. As such, doing research in violent settings require reflexivity, flexibility and creativity in research strategies that respond to rapid changes. Research experiences in Mozambique show the need to use blended methods that include even less structured methodologies.

Originality/value

Fieldwork experiences in Cabo challenges researchers who cling to standardised research traditions which often hamper awareness of new postmodernist mode of thought applicable to war settings. It is essential to study the nature of African armed conflicts by combining creativity and flexibility in the selection of research strategies.
From empowering leadership to proactive work behavior in hospitality: a study of multiple cross-level mediation processes
Authors: Wang Chung-Jen
Published: March 2023

Purpose

On the basis of the hierarchical organizational structure, this study investigated how empowering leadership influences hotel employees' proactive work behavior through multiple cross-level mediation processes. This study also investigated whether psychological empowerment, positive psychological capital, job characteristics and job embeddedness can activate the linkage of the aforementioned trickle-down effects.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws data from 826 international tourist hotel employees at different times with hierarchical linear modeling (HLM) analyses.

Findings

Multiple cross-level mediation analyses indicate that (1) psychological empowerment mediates the cross-level influences of empowering leadership on job characteristics and positive psychological capital; (2) positive psychological capital mediates the cross-level influences of empowering leadership on job embeddedness and proactive work behavior; and (3) job embeddedness mediates the cross-level influences of psychological empowerment and job characteristics on proactive work behavior.

Practical implications

In the post-pandemic era, the valuable trickle-down effects of empowering leadership could spill over into employees' positive beliefs of psychological empowerment, which ultimately benefit working responsibility and organizational operations.

Originality/value

The results support and suggest that maximizing the benefits of empowering leadership could eventually foster proactivity and performance in the workplace under hospitality and tourism settings.
Dynamic sustainable multiple-depot vehicle routing problem with simultaneous pickup and delivery in the context of the physical internet
Authors: Kantasa-ard Anirut , Chargui Tarik , Bekrar Abdelghani , AitElCadi Abdessamad , Sallez Yves
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper proposes an approach to solve the vehicle routing problem with simultaneous pickup and delivery (VRPSPD) in the context of the Physical Internet (PI) supply chain. The main objective is to minimize the total distribution costs (transportation cost and holding cost) to supply retailers from PI hubs.

Design/methodology/approach

Mixed integer programming (MIP) is proposed to solve the problem in smaller instances. A random local search (RLS) algorithm and a simulated annealing (SA) metaheuristic are proposed to solve larger instances of the problem.

Findings

The results show that SA provides the best solution in terms of total distribution cost and provides a good result regarding holding cost and transportation cost compared to other heuristic methods. Moreover, in terms of total carbon emissions, the PI concept proposed a better solution than the classical supply chain.

Research limitations/implications

The sustainability of the route construction applied to the PI is validated through carbon emissions.

Practical implications

This approach also relates to the main objectives of transportation in the PI context: reduce empty trips and share transportation resources between PI-hubs and retailers. The proposed approaches are then validated through a case study of agricultural products in Thailand.

Social implications

This approach is also relevant with the reduction of driving hours on the road because of share transportation results and shorter distance than the classical route planning.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the VRPSPD problem in the PI context, which is based on sharing transportation and storage resources while considering sustainability.
The effect of perceived usefulness of recommender systems and information sources on purchase intention
Authors: Mican Daniel , Sitar-Taut Dan-Andrei
Published: March 2023

Purpose

The current study aims to empirically analyze the influence of different information sources, together with the persuasiveness of recommender systems (RSs) on the consumer’s purchase intention (PI). It also expands the research on RSs from the point of view of consumer behavior and psychology, considering perceived usefulness and relevance. In addition, it analyzes how different types of personalized recommendations, along with non-personalized ones, influence PI.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model has been validated using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM), based on the data collected from 597 online shoppers.

Findings

This study proves that both information search and RSs influence PI, being complementary rather than mutually exclusive. Recommender systems’ findings indicate that the PI is primarily influenced by the perceived relevance of RSs, the information provided by manufacturers and reviews. Moreover, only the influence of the perceived usefulness of personalized recommendations strongly affects PI. Conversely, non-personalized recommendations do not affect PI.

Practical implications

Developers should focus on increasing the perceived usefulness and relevance of RSs. Thus, they could adopt the hybridization of RSs with the aggregation of both personal shopping behavior and social network contacts. It should integrate information signals from multiple sources to include sentiment extracted from reviews or links to the manufacturer’s page. Furthermore, the recommendation of discounted products must be only for products preferred by customers, because only these influence the PI.

Originality/value

This research provides a structural model that examines together, for the first time, the influence on the PI of the main RSs and sources of information.
Accounting theory, ethnography, and the silence of the social
Authors: Vollmer Hendrik
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a reflection on the alliance between accounting theory and social research in general, focussing on the conjunction of accounting theory and ethnography in particular.

Design/methodology/approach

The author builds on Stefan Hirschauer’s methodological reflections on ethnography and the “silence of the social” to briefly re-articulate some of the ideas the author had associated, in an earlier piece, with the investigation of tacit coordination in accounting.

Findings

Ethnography is an intrinsically theoretical practice and also a particular form of accounting. As such, it presents a paradigm case for how accounting theory builds on, and emerges from, social research in joint efforts of breaking the silence of the social. Ethnographic research, like the practice of accounting and social research more generally, is associated with a stewardship of silence and an “ethics of mattering” (Karen Barad), and accounting theory is an invitation to reflect on the underlying practices of (dis-)articulation.

Originality/value

The paper invites readers to engage with accounting practice as a topic of systematic theoretical interest in exploring how we put the world on the record, understand the choices we make in the process and the silences we let lie.
Advanced resonator mass sensor for molecule detection in droplet
Authors: Eidi Amin , Shamsi Mousa , Badri Ghavifekr Habib
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to a novel fabricated resonator structure which consists of some single mechanical resonators as a mass sensor.

Design/methodology/approach

The structure is proposed to detect the target molecules and cells in a droplet. Also, at this design the mechanical coupling springs of the proposed structure are designed in such a way that it resonates in shear resonance mode which minimizes the damping effect.

Findings

This proposed design can be fabricated in different sizes due to the requirements of an application.

Originality/value

The proposed design is fabricated in mesoscale and its mass sensitivity is evaluated and reported in this paper.
Customer values and patronage intention in social media networks: mediating role of perceived usefulness
Authors: Doshi Parinda , Nigam Priti , Rishi Bikramjit
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to validates a framework using the Uses and Gratifications Theory (UGT) to study the effect of values, i.e. Functional Value (FV), Social Value (SV), Emotional Value (EV) and Monetary Value (MV), on the Patronage Intention (PI) of Social Network Users (SNU’s) with mediating role of Perceived Usefulness (PU).

Design/methodology/approach

A survey method was used to collect responses from 302 SNUs, and the variance-based structural equation method was used to understand the relationships among the constructs.

Findings

The results found a significant positive effect of FV and EV on Perceived Usefulness (PU) and MV and PU on Patronage intention (PI) of SNUs. Further, PU partially mediated the relationship of EV with PI.

Originality/value

This study used the UGT to understand the effect of values on the PI of SNUs. This research study contributes to the existing social networks/social media literature.
Amentoflavone inhibits hepatitis B virus infection via the suppression of preS1 binding to host cells
Authors: Aoki‐Utsubo Chie , Indrasetiawan Puguh , Fukano Kento , Muramatsu Masamichi , Artanti Nina , Hanafi Muhammad , Hotta Hak , Kameoka Masanori
Published: March 2023

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) is a leading cause of chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Current therapeutic drugs for chronic HBV infection use IFN and nucleos(t)ide analogs; however, their efficacy is limited. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop new antivirals for HBV therapy. In this study, we identified a plant‐derived polyphenolic bioflavonoid, amentoflavone, as a new anti‐HBV compound. Amentoflavone treatment dose‐dependently inhibited HBV infection in HBV‐susceptible cells with HepG2‐hNTCP‐C4 and primary human hepatocyte PXB‐cells. A mode‐of‐action study showed that amentoflavone inhibits the viral entry step, but not the viral internalization and early replication processes. Attachment of HBV particles as well as HBV preS1 peptide to HepG2‐hNTCP‐C4 cells was inhibited by amentoflavone. The transporter assay revealed that amentoflavone partly inhibits uptake of sodium taurocholate cotransporting polypeptide (NTCP)–mediated bile acid. Furthermore, effect of various amentoflavone analogs on HBs and HBe production from HBV‐infected HepG2‐hNTCP‐C4 cells was examined. Robustaflavone exhibited comparable anti‐HBV activity to that of amentoflavone and an amentoflavone‐7,4', 4‴‐trimethyl ether derivative (sciadopitysin) with moderate anti‐HBV activity. Cupressuflavone or the monomeric flavonoid apigenin did not exhibit the antiviral activity. Amentoflavone and its structurally related biflavonoids may provide a potential drug scaffold in the design of a new anti‐HBV drug inhibitor targeting NTCP.
The Market for Economics and Finance PhDs
Authors: Lan Yihui , Li Ian W. , Chai Zong Ken , Clements Kenneth W.
Published: March 2023

This paper presents new information about the post‐graduation activities of those with a PhD in economics and finance from an Australian university. Approximately 40 per cent have an academic job, while the other 60 per cent work elsewhere or engage in other activities. The analysis includes origin‒destination networks for both the academic and non‐academic markets, the determinants of earnings and measures of overqualification and underemployment. The findings of the paper can provide guidance for those completing or contemplating PhD studies.
Changing climate law and governance: A multi‐level perspective
Authors: Preston Brian J.
Published: March 2023

Addressing the climate crisis involves changing climate law and governance. Climate litigation can facilitate this change. How and why does change occur? A multilevel perspective can assist in answering these questions. There are three levels: niches, regimes and landscapes. Actors in the protected spaces of niches develop ideas and legal arguments in climate litigation. Through a process characterised by the phases of emergence, diffusion, adaptation and cumulation, the ideas and arguments are incorporated by domestic courts' decisions into the law of the land. This process is facilitated by exogenous developments at the landscape level. The changing climate and the changing responses of the international community and international law exert contextual pressure on domestic courts' decision‐making. The combined pressures from the niche and landscape levels create tensions in the regime, making it receptive to incorporate the novel ideas and arguments and change climate law and governance. Other actors in the regime respond to this change in the law. The legislature and executive, the private sector and legal profession, adjust their behaviours accordingly. In sum, there is regime change. This process of change is illustrated using the ideas and arguments of inter‐ and intra‐ generational equity.
Mucoepidermoid carcinoma cured by a combination of high‐frequency snare and photodynamic therapy: A case report
Authors: Tamura Kentaro , Uchimura Keigo , Furuse Hideaki , Imabayashi Tatsuya , Matsumoto Yuji , Tsuchida Takaaki
Published: March 2023

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma (MEC) is a rare salivary gland tumor, accounting for 0.2% of all lung tumors. The standard treatment for MEC of the primary bronchus is surgery, although intraluminal bronchoscopic treatment has recently become an option. A 68‐year‐old man presented with an asymptomatic bronchial tumor in the right intermediate bronchus. The tumor was resected using a high‐frequency snare (HFS) during bronchoscopy, and the specimen was pathologically diagnosed as low‐grade MEC. A residual lesion was detected in the resected area by autofluorescence imaging. The tumor appeared to be localized within the subepithelial layer without metastases, and photodynamic therapy (PDT) was performed as a local treatment. The patient had no recurrence for 18 months. PDT is effective and safe for patients with centrally located early‐stage lung cancer, but there are few reports of its use for rare tumors, such as MEC. In this case, PDT allowed for local control and avoided surgery, including bronchoplasty, for MEC. Combined treatment of tumor reduction by HFS and PDT of the residual lesion may be an optimal treatment for MEC of the bronchus.
Comparative effectiveness of anti‐IL5 and anti‐IgE biologic classes in patients with severe asthma eligible for both
Authors: Pfeffer Paul E. , Ali Nasloon , Murray Ruth , Ulrik Charlotte , Tran Trung N. , Maspero Jorge , Peters Matthew , Christoff George C. , Sadatsafavi Mohsen , Torres‐Duque Carlos A. , Altraja Alan , Lehtimäki Lauri , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Salvi Sundeep , Costello Richard W. , Cushen Breda , Heffler Enrico , Iwanaga Takashi , Al‐Ahmad Mona , Larenas‐Linnemann Désirée , Kuna Piotr , Fonseca João A. , Al‐Lehebi Riyad , Rhee Chin Kook , Perez‐de‐Llano Luis , Perng Steve Diahn‐Warng , Mahboub Bassam , Wang Eileen , Goh Celine , Lyu Juntao , Newell Anthony , Alacqua Marianna , Belevskiy Andrey S. , Bhutani Mohit , Bjermer Leif , Bjornsdottir Unnur , Bourdin Arnaud , Bulow Anna von , Busby John , Canonica Giorgio Walter , Cosio Borja G. , Dorscheid Delbert R. , Muñoz‐Esquerre Mariana , FitzGerald J. Mark , Gil Esther Garcia , Gibson Peter G. , Heaney Liam G. , Hew Mark , Hilberg Ole , Hoyte Flavia , Jackson David J. , Koh Mariko Siyue , Ko Hsin‐Kuo Bruce , Lee Jae Ha , Lehmann Sverre , Chaves Loureiro Cláudia , Lúðvíksdóttir Dóra , Menzies‐Gow Andrew N. , Mitchell Patrick , Papaioannou Andriana I. , Popov Todor A. , Porsbjerg Celeste M. , Salameh Laila , Sirena Concetta , Taillé Camille , Taube Christian , Tohda Yuji , Wechsler Michael E. , Price David B.
Published: March 2023

Background

Patients with severe asthma may present with characteristics representing overlapping phenotypes, making them eligible for more than one class of biologic. Our aim was to describe the profile of adult patients with severe asthma eligible for both anti‐IgE and anti‐IL5/5R and to compare the effectiveness of both classes of treatment in real life.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study that included adult patients with severe asthma from 22 countries enrolled into the International Severe Asthma registry (ISAR) who were eligible for both anti‐IgE and anti‐IL5/5R. The effectiveness of anti‐IgE and anti‐IL5/5R was compared in a 1:1 matched cohort. Exacerbation rate was the primary effectiveness endpoint. Secondary endpoints included long‐term‐oral corticosteroid (LTOCS) use, asthma‐related emergency room (ER) attendance, and hospital admissions.

Results

In the matched analysis (n = 350/group), the mean annualized exacerbation rate decreased by 47.1% in the anti‐IL5/5R group and 38.7% in the anti‐IgE group. Patients treated with anti‐IL5/5R were less likely to experience a future exacerbation (adjusted IRR 0.76; 95% CI 0.64, 0.89; p < 0.001) and experienced a greater reduction in mean LTOCS dose than those treated with anti‐IgE (37.44% vs. 20.55% reduction; p = 0.023). There was some evidence to suggest that patients treated with anti‐IL5/5R experienced fewer asthma‐related hospitalizations (IRR 0.64; 95% CI 0.38, 1.08), but not ER visits (IRR 0.94, 95% CI 0.61, 1.43).

Conclusions

In real life, both anti‐IgE and anti‐IL5/5R improve asthma outcomes in patients eligible for both biologic classes; however, anti‐IL5/5R was superior in terms of reducing asthma exacerbations and LTOCS use.
A multicentre randomised controlled trial of the McGrath™ Mac videolaryngoscope versus conventional laryngoscopy
Authors: Kriege M. , Noppens R. R. , Turkstra T. , Payne S. , Kunitz O. , Tzanova I. , Schmidtmann I. ,   the EMMA Trial Investigators Group
Published: March 2023

Before completion of this study, there was insufficient evidence demonstrating the superiority of videolaryngoscopy compared with direct laryngoscopy for elective tracheal intubation. We hypothesised that using videolaryngoscopy for routine tracheal intubation would result in higher first‐pass tracheal intubation success compared with direct laryngoscopy. In this multicentre randomised trial, 2092 adult patients without predicted difficult airway requiring tracheal intubation for elective surgery were allocated randomly to either videolaryngoscopy with a Macintosh blade (McGrath™) or direct laryngoscopy. First‐pass tracheal intubation success was higher with the McGrath (987/1053, 94%), compared with direct laryngoscopy (848/1039, 82%); absolute risk reduction (95%CI) was 12.1% (10.9–13.6%). This resulted in a relative risk (95%CI) of unsuccessful tracheal intubation at first attempt of 0.34 (0.26–0.45; p < 0.001) for McGrath compared with direct laryngoscopy. Cormack and Lehane grade ≥ 3 was observed more frequently with direct laryngoscopy (84/1039, 8%) compared with McGrath (8/1053, 0.7%; p < 0.001) No significant difference in tracheal intubation‐associated adverse events was observed between groups. This study demonstrates that using McGrath videolaryngoscopy compared with direct laryngoscopy improves first‐pass tracheal intubation success in patients having elective surgery. Practitioners may consider using this device as first choice for tracheal intubation.