bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ocean-scale variation in migration schedules of a long-distance migratory seabird is fully compensated upon return to the breeding site
Authors: van Bemmelen Rob SA , Moe Børge , Schekkerman Hans , Hansen Sveinn Are , Snell Katherine RS , Humphreys Elizabeth M , Mäntylä Elina , Hallgrimsson Gunnar Thor , Gilg Olivier , Ehrich Dorothée , Calladine John , Hammer Sjúrður , Harris Sarah , Lang Johannes , Vignisson Sölvi Rúnar , Kolbeinsson Yann , Nuotio Kimmo , Sillanpää Matti , Sittler Benoît , Sokolov Aleksandr , Klaassen Raymond H.G. , Phillips Richard A. , Tulp Ingrid
Published: May 2023

Background

Migratory birds generally have tightly scheduled annual cycles, in which delays can have carry-over effects on the timing of later events, ultimately impacting reproductive output. Whether temporal carry-over effects are more pronounced among migrations over larger distances, with tighter schedules, is a largely unexplored question.

Methods

We tracked individual Arctic SkuasStercorarius parasiticus, a long-distance migratory seabird, from eight breeding populations between Greenland and Siberia using light-level geolocators. We tested whether migration schedules among breeding populations differ as a function of their use of seven widely divergent wintering areas across the Atlantic Ocean, Mediterranean Sea and Indian Ocean.

Results

Breeding at higher latitudes led not only to later reproduction and migration, but also faster spring migration and shorter time between return to the breeding area and clutch initiation. Wintering area was consistent within individuals among years; and more distant areas were associated with more time spent on migration and less time in the wintering areas. Skuas adjusted the period spent in the wintering area, regardless of migration distance, which buffered the variation in timing of autumn migration. Choice of wintering area had only minor effects on timing of return at the breeding area and timing of breeding and these effects were not consistent between breeding populations.

Conclusion

The lack of a consistent effect of wintering area on timing of return between breeding areas indicates that individuals synchronize their arrival with others in their population despite extensive individual differences in migration strategies.
Sequential Switching Through IgG1 is Redundant for Allergic Reactivity and Memory to Allergens
Authors: Koenig Joshua F.E. , Wade-Vallance Adam , Jiménez-Saiz Rodrigo , Bruton Kelly , Gadkar Siyon , Grydziuszko Emily , Walker Tina , Gordon Melissa E. , Waserman Susan , Jordana Manel
Published: May 2023

Allergic reactions to foods are driven by allergen-binding immunoglobulin (Ig)E antibodies. IgE- expressing cells can be generated through a sequential class switching pathway where activated B cells first switch to an intermediary isotype, most frequently IgG1, and then to IgE. It has been proposed that sequential class switch recombination is important in generating high affinity IgE, augmenting anaphylactic reactions, and in holding the memory of IgE responses. Here, we observed surprising redundancy of sequential switching through IgG1 for the functional affinity of the IgE repertoire against multiple food allergens as well as for the ability of IgE to elicit anaphylaxis. We further found that sequential switching via IgG1 was irrelevant for allergic memory. These results indicate that allergen-specific IgG1 B cells are redundant in sensitization, anaphylaxis, and food allergy persistence, thereby implicating other switching pathways as important considerations in the development of therapeutics for allergic diseases.
Structural evidence for elastic tethers connecting separating chromosomes in crane-fly spermatocytes
Authors: Forer Arthur , Otsuka Shotaro
Published: May 2023

Different types of anaphase bridges have been reported to form between segregating chromosomes during cell division. Previous studies using laser microsurgery suggested that elastic tethers connect the telomeres of separating anaphase chromosomes in many animal meiotic and mitotic cells. However, structural evidence is lacking for their existence. In this study, we correlated live imaging with electron tomography of crane-fly primary spermatocytes to examine whether visible structures connect separating telomeres in meiosis I. We found structures extending between separating telomeres in all stages of anaphase, from very early anaphase to late anaphase. Ultrastructural analysis revealed that the structures consist of two components: one is darkly stained, looking somewhat like chromatin, whereas the other is more lightly stained, appearing filamentous with internal thinner filaments. While in early anaphase both structures extend between telomeres, in later anaphase the darker structure extends shorter distances from the telomeres but the lighter structure still extends between the separating telomeres. From these observations, we deduced that these structures represent the ‘tethers’ inferred from the laser-cutting experiments in crane-fly spermatocytes. Since the presence of elastic tethers are suggested in a variety of animal cells, they probably are present during anaphase in all animal cells.
NoWolbachiaprotection againstPlasmodium falciparuminfection in the major malaria mosquitoAnopheles moucheti
Authors: Mouillaud Théo , Berger Audric , Buysse Marie , Rahola Nil , Daron Josquin , Agbor Jean-Pierre , Sango Sandrine N. , Neafsey Daniel E. , Duron Olivier , Ayala Diego
Published: May 2023

Since the discovery of natural malaria vector populations infected by the endosymbiont bacteriumWolbachia, a renewed interest has arisen for using this bacterium as an alternative for malaria control. Among naturally infected mosquitoes,Anopheles moucheti, a major malaria mosquito in Central Africa, exhibits one of the highest prevalences ofWolbachiainfection. To better understand whether this maternally inherited bacterium could be used for malaria control, we investigatedWolbachiainfluence inAn. mouchetipopulations naturally infected by the malaria parasitePlasmodium falciparum. To this end, we collected mosquitoes in a village from Cameroon, Central Africa, where this mosquito is the main malaria vector. We found that the prevalence ofWolbachiabacterium was almost fixed in the studied mosquito population, and was higher than previously recorded. We also quantifiedWolbachiain whole mosquitoes and dissected abdomens, confirming that the bacterium is also elsewhere than in the abdomen, but at lower density. Finally, we analyzed the impact ofWolbachiapresence and density onP. falciparuminfection.Wolbachiadensity was slightly higher in mosquitoes infected with the malaria parasite than in uninfected mosquitoes. However, we observed no correlation between theP. falciparumandWolbachiadensities. In conclusion, our study indicates that naturally occurringWolbachiainfection does not affectP. falciparumdevelopment withinAn. mouchetimosquitoes.
Consumers’ perceptions of meat safety and quality – a qualitative content analysis from Afghanistan
Authors: Nasiri Mustafa , Gassler Birgit , Teuber Ramona
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study analyses consumers’ perception of meat quality and safety in Afghanistan at the pre-harvest, harvest and post-harvest stages.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative data were collected through seven focus group discussions with 52 participants in Kabul and Bamyan, Afghanistan, between September and December 2020. A qualitative content analysis was undertaken using the Total Food Quality Model and the MAXQDA software.

Findings

At the pre-harvest stage, both sedentary and nomadic ruminants’ meat was perceived as high in quality and safety, with lower food safety hazards, unlike urban-raised ruminants’ meat. At the harvest stage, supermarket meat was perceived as better in hygiene, but not in freshness. Additionally, there were doubts about the Halal-slaughtering of this meat. Conversely, butchery meat was perceived as fresh, natural and trustworthy, but unhygienic. At the post-harvest stage, the most important quality attributes before purchase were color, freshness, place-of-origin, safety and Halal-slaughtering, and after purchase were taste and tenderness. Lack of consumer trust was also noticed for the formal institution, i.e. supermarket meat.

Research limitations/implications

This study provides valuable new results from Afghanistan that could be transferred to other Islamic-developing countries given the similarities in their meat industry, i.e. availability of both formal and informal institutions, and the sensitivity of Muslim consumers to Halal-slaughtering. Nonetheless, the qualitative nature of the study design demands further research, employing, e.g. a quantitative approach. Future studies conducted in other countries with similar context could validate the results of this paper.

Originality/value

Knowledge on consumer behavior in Afghanistan is scarce. The present study is one among a few that provides empirical evidence on Afghan consumers. Additionally, it is the first study to compare consumers’ perceptions of traditional butchery meat and supermarket meat.
Success of digital marketing model for software development industry: validation of survey based results with case study analysis
Authors: Gupta Nidhi , Singh Sultan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The paper aims to clarify the validity of the digital marketing model for software IT professionals. It proposes a model of buying behavior practices followed in digital era and outlining all six critical factors that were considered for developing this model. So the main objective of the study is to validate the success of digital marketing model through a survey-based results and case study analysis and synthesize the results for the success of digital marketing model for software development industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory study using the structured questionnaire. The data were collected using online platform. The present study covers the analysis of a survey of 406 IT professionals from software development industry to understand their buying behavior through digital marketing. Regression technique has been used to find the important predictors of the digital marketing model with its impact on the demographic variables.

Findings

The paper provides empirical insights about digital marketing model whose validity has been checked by synthesizing the results of both overall and case study. The results show that predictors elucidate Durbin–Watson in the acceptable range and are suitable for the model.

Research limitations/implications

Data were collected during Covid period. So it was quite a challenging task and moreover sample size could not be increased due to this problem.

Practical implication

The paper includes implications for the development of digital marketing model for software IT professionals. Finally, this study will contribute to the further research for many prominent researchers who express their doubts about the state and future of digital marketing studies, characterized by contradictory and confusing empirical findings. A larger quantitative study on IT companies' digital marketing from different regions is recommended as a future line of research in order to encourage the unique globalized level model development.

Social implications

Many organizations use digital marketing successfully since with the great amount of awareness generated about the digitalization among the customers has propelled for its development.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how IT professional's digital buying marketing practices need to be studied.
A roadmap for triggering the convergence of global ESG disclosure standards: lessons from the IFRS foundation and stakeholder engagement
Authors: Zaid Mohammad A.A. , Issa Ayman
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Motivated by the growing and urgent demands for a unified set of internationally accepted, and high-quality environmental, social and governance (hereafter ESG) disclosure standards, this exploratory study aims to propose a roadmap for setting out the proper technical groundwork for global ESG disclosure standards.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory study is conducted to gain initial understanding and insights into establishing a worldwide set of standards for reporting on sustainability, as this topic has not been extensively studied. This study examines the viewpoints of various stakeholders, including sustainability practitioners, academics and organizations focused on ESG issues, to generate knowledge that is more solid than knowledge produced when one group of stakeholders work alone.

Findings

The results revealed that there is an ongoing and incompatible debate regarding several conceptual and practical challenges for setting a unified set of ESG disclosure standards.

Practical implications

The study results provide multidimensional insights for regulatory parties and standard-setters to develop a high-quality package of global ESG reporting standards. This, in turn, enables different groups of stakeholders to understand the firm’s impact on the environment, society and economy.

Originality/value

Research into this timely and relevant global issue is considered an appealing area of study and deserves significant attention. Thereby, working on this topic merits remarkable attention. Furthermore, this exploratory article provides valuable and informative suggestions for creating a unified and high-quality set of internationally accepted sustainability reporting standards.
Measures for improving the buildability of building designs in construction industry
Authors: Osuizugbo Innocent Chigozie
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Despite many studies on buildability from different perspectives and methods, the problems associated with buildability have not ceased from confronting the construction industry. This paper aims to determine the critical measures for improving the buildability of building designs in the construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was developed to address the aim of the study. Data were collected through the administration of questionnaires to purposively selected group of quantity surveyors, builders, engineers and architects. A total of 368 questionnaires were administered and a response rate of 60% (219 questionnaires were returned) was achieved. Data elicited were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Findings

The results revealed that “the benefits of improved buildability should be made known to designers”, “more technical literature for improving buildability should be provided to designers” and “more education and training on buildability should be given to designers” are the top most important three measures for improving the buildability of building designs in the construction industry.

Originality/value

This study highlights the measures for improving buildability of building designs which are considered significant by construction professionals. An understanding of these measures is essential for reducing buildability problems as well as for improving and embedding buildability as a practice in the construction industry.
Impact of cloud computing as a digital technology on SMEs sustainability
Authors: Al-Mutawa Basma , Saeed Al Mubarak Muneer Mohammed
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the adoption of cloud computing as a digital technology by small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and assess its impact on sustainability of such enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

A model was developed that featured factors influencing SMEs sustainability. Primary quantitative data was gathered using a survey as an instrument. Total set of n = 387 responses were gathered using a convenience sampling method.

Findings

Findings reveal that cost reduction, ease of use, reliability and sharing and collaboration factors have significant statistical impacts on SMEs sustainability, whereas privacy and security factor has no significant statistical on SMEs sustainability.

Practical implications

The study poses significant implications on managers and SME development authority to create an inductive environment for technological support for SMEs’ sustainability.

Originality/value

The study enhances SMEs’ performance and sustainability by upgrading their existing information and communications technology as a digital infrastructure and benefiting from novel IT-based cloud revolution. Several studies have provided an understanding of the use of cloud computing services in SMEs but lack enough information about the challenges and impact on SMEs sustainability.
Ensuring bachelor’s thesis assessment quality: a case study at one Dutch research university
Authors: Hsiao Ya-Ping (Amy) , van de Watering Gerard , Heitbrink Marthe , Vlas Helma , Chiu Mei-Shiu
Published: May 2023

Purpose

In the Netherlands, thesis assessment quality is a growing concern for the national accreditation organization due to increasing student numbers and supervisor workload. However, the accreditation framework lacks guidance on how to meet quality standards. This study aims to address these issues by sharing our experience, identifying problems and proposing guidelines for quality assurance for a thesis assessment system.

Design/methodology/approach

This study has two parts. The first part is a narrative literature review conducted to derive guidelines for thesis assessment based on observations made at four Dutch universities. The second part is a case study conducted in one bachelor’s psychology-related program, where the assessment practitioners and the vice program director analyzed the assessment documents based on the guidelines developed from the literature review.

Findings

The findings of this study include a list of guidelines based on the four standards. The case study results showed that the program meets most of the guidelines, as it has a comprehensive set of thesis learning outcomes, peer coaching for novice supervisors, clear and complete assessment information and procedures for both examiners and students, and a concise assessment form.

Originality/value

This study is original in that it demonstrates how to holistically ensure the quality of thesis assessments by considering the context of the program and paying more attention to validity (e.g. program curriculum and assessment design), transparency (e.g. integrating assessment into the supervision process) and the assessment expertise of teaching staff.
Thermal conductivity reconstruction method with application in a face milling operation
Authors: Boos Everton , Bazán Fermín S.V. , Luchesi Vanda M.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to reconstruct the spatially varying orthotropic conductivity based on a two-dimensional inverse heat conduction problem described by a partial differential equation (PDE) model with mixed boundary conditions. The proposed discretization uses a highly accurate technique and allows simple implementations. Also, the authors solve the related inverse problem in such a way that smoothness is enforced on the iterations, showing promising results in synthetic examples and real problems with moving heat source.

Design/methodology/approach

The discretization procedure applied to the model for the direct problem uses a pseudospectral collocation strategy in the spatial variables and Crank–Nicolson method for the time-dependent variable. Then, the related inverse problem of recovering the conductivity from temperature measurements is solved by a modified version of Levenberg–Marquardt method (LMM) which uses singular scaling matrices. Problems where data availability is limited are also considered, motivated by a face milling operation problem. Numerical examples are presented to indicate the accuracy and efficiency of the proposed method.

Findings

The paper presents a discretization for the PDEs model aiming on simple implementations and numerical performance. The modified version of LMM introduced using singular scaling matrices shows the capabilities on recovering quantities with precision at a low number of iterations. Numerical results showed good fit between exact and approximate solutions for synthetic noisy data and quite acceptable inverse solutions when experimental data are inverted.

Originality/value

The paper is significant because of the pseudospectral approach, known for its high precision and easy implementation, and usage of singular regularization matrices on LMM iterations, unlike classic implementations of the method, impacting positively on the reconstruction process.
Confidence and coincidences in executive decision-making during periods of crisis
Authors: Mormile Simona , Piscopo Gabriella , Adinolfi Paola
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study, which is grounded in decision-making theory, is to explore whether the occurrence of meaningful coincidences can positively influence executive confidence during periods of crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a qualitative study with 24 interviews, this study focuses on Italian hospitality facilities in the Campania Region of southern Italy to explore how an executive confidence led by meaningful coincidences can influence managerial decisions during crisis situations. Data are analyzed through a deductive coding for qualitative analysis.

Findings

The framework proposes the connection by coincidences and confidence, emphasizing the process through which meaningful coincidences can positively influence executive confidence and managerial decision-making. The insights that emerge suggest a number of positive and beneficial aspects for decision-making during a period of crisis such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study in the literature aimed at investigating, by means of qualitative methodologies, the positive outcomes of executive confidence in decision-making led by meaningful coincidences during crisis periods in the specific context of the Italian hospitality industry.
Servitization in cross-border relationships: investigating the effects of global supply chain dependence on the servitization level of the manufacturers
Authors: Niu Yimeng , Jiang Zhibin
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Servitization is a business transformation that increases service provision in manufacturers. This study aims to empirically examine how a manufacturer's global supply chain dependence and its power positions affect its servitization output.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs secondary longitudinal datasets and econometric specifications to test the relationship between global supply chain dependence and servitization. It further examines the moderating roles of the firm's market power and the degree of being principal customers and principal suppliers. Heterogeneity analyses are performed to verify the robustness of the results.

Findings

The findings indicate that fewer global suppliers and more global customers contribute to a higher level of servitization. The negative effect of global supplier dependence is mitigated when manufacturers have less market power and are the principal customers for most of their suppliers. The positive effect of global customer dependence is stronger when manufacturers have less market power and their customers are less dependent on the manufacturers.

Research limitations/implications

Data mixing manufacturing and service inputs and data on public US manufacturers may restrict the generalizability of the findings. Nonetheless, the study urges future research to focus more on other countries/markets.

Practical implications

This study encourages manufacturers who servitize their businesses to connect with more global customers and fewer global suppliers and manage powers among stakeholders. Other recommendations for policymakers and industry associations are also proposed.

Originality/value

This study is the first to explore the impacts of the global supply chain dependence on servitization. Multiple-level findings offer important implications for researchers and practitioners.
Do agile work practices impact team performance through project commitment? Evidence from the information technology industry
Authors: Uraon Ram Shankar , Chauhan Anshu , Bharati Rashmi , Sahu Kritika
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Drawing on goal-setting theory and team effectiveness theory, the study aims to examine the impact of agile taskwork and agile teamwork on team performance. In addition, it investigates the mediating effect of project commitment on the impact of agile taskwork and agile teamwork on team performance. Furthermore, the study also tests the moderating role of career level on the impact of agile taskwork and agile teamwork on team performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected from 563 employees working in 290 information technology (IT) companies in India using a self-reporting structured questionnaire. Partial least squares path modeling was used to test the hypothesized model, and the Process macro was used to test the moderating effect.

Findings

The results show that agile taskwork and agile teamwork positively affect team performance and project commitment, and project commitment positively impacts team performance. Furthermore, project commitment fully mediates the relationship between agile taskwork and team performance and partially mediates the relationship between agile teamwork and team performance. Furthermore, the career level negatively moderates the impact of agile taskwork and agile teamwork on team performance.

Practical implications

The study shows the importance of agile work practices and project commitment to enhance team performance. Thus, the study provides managers with two strategies to improve their team performance.

Originality/value

There is a scarcity of research examining the distinct effects of agile taskwork and agile teamwork on team performance and the mediating role of project commitment in these relationships. Furthermore, as per the empirical evidence, no previous research has empirically examined the moderating role of career level in the agile taskwork-team performance and agile teamwork-team performance relationships.
Mental well-being and government support in Europe. The mediating role of trust in people and institutions
Authors: Poma Erica , Pistoresi Barbara , Giovinazzo Chiara
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This paper investigates the determinants of subjective well-being in Europe using the European Living, Working and COVID-19 (ELWC) Survey carried out by Eurofound (2021). Socio-demographics characteristics, employment status, measures of economic distress, inequality and work life balance are considered. Particular attention is paid to how quality of government support (QGS), that considers the dimensions of good governance such as integrity, fairness, reliability, responsiveness and influences subjective mental well-being (WHO-5) through the mediation of trust in other people and in institutions.

Design/methodology/approach

To this end, the authors estimate a moderated mediation model for analysing the indirect role of QGS on WHO-5 through institutional trust and trust in people.

Findings

The results support the hypothesis that the reduction in WHO-5 in the European population during coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID--19), particularly marked in the 18–34 age group, is related to the perceived inadequacy of government interventions in managing economic and social uncertainty through supportive measures. This outcome is also due to reduced trust in institutions and other people, as both are significant mediators that reinforce the impact of public support on WHO-5.

Practical implications

Government should pay greater attention to this relationship amongst good governance, trust and mental health of citizens because a healthy human capital is a significant factor for the long-run economic growth, in a special way when the authors refer to the young workforce with a greater life expectancy.

Originality/value

In the literature, the role of trust as a mediator has been analysed in the relationship between individual economic situations and subjective well-being before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. To the best of the authors' knowledge, no studies have examined the role of perceived QGS on subjective mental well-being using the mediating and backing effects of trust in people and institutions.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-08-2022-0549.
Accountants robots in shared service centers: effects of the culture for innovation, work engagement and performance measurement system
Authors: Colombo Valter Luís Barbieri , Beuren Ilse Maria
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effects of the culture for innovation, work engagement and the use of interactive performance measurement systems (PMSs) in the interorganizational accounting processes automation at a shared services center (SSC).

Design/methodology/approach

A single-entity survey was carried out at an SSC provider of B2B accounting services of a multinational company in the electrical sector, and structural equation modeling was applied for data analysis.

Findings

The results show that the culture for innovation, the work engagement and the use of interactive PMS positively and significantly influence the accounting process automation in the investigated SSC. Moreover, the use of interactive PMS presents a mediating effect on the relationship between culture for innovation and work engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The research findings contribute by revealing that the culture of innovation, work engagement and the interactive PMS support the use of robotic process automation and artificial intelligence in the interorganizational automation of accounting processes in an SSC-type service ecosystem. This highlights the importance of the culture of innovation and the positive feeling toward work being reinforced by the organization and the role of the interactive PMS as a formal instrument to transmit the organizational objectives and provide a common vision.

Originality/value

The study reveals that the use of interactive PMS seems to be an important conductor of the behavior of employees toward the accounting process automation strategy at the SSC, reinforced, in this case, by the culture of innovation and work engagement.
Critical success factors and implementation strategies for B2B electronic procurement systems in the travel industry
Authors: Lin Sheng-Wei , Fu Hsin-Pin , Lin Arthur J.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Internet-based business-to-business electronic procurement (B2B e-procurement) systems are rapidly becoming the primary platform for interorganizational transactions and the delivery of products and services in the travel and tourism industries. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the critical success factors (CSFs) and implementation strategies for B2B e-procurement systems in travel agency supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

This study developed a multifaceted evaluation framework that draws on the relevant literature and the technology–organization–environment framework. The CSFs underlying B2B e-procurement adoption were identified using hybrid criteria decision-making methods. Purposive sampling was used, and 49 valid questionnaires were obtained from retail travel agencies in Taiwan.

Findings

The results reveal that the top four CSFs are system stability, system reliability, sales dynamics and product line availability. By focusing on these CSFs, travel wholesalers can most effectively allocate their limited resources to provide an extensive range of products and services to their clients, improve e-procurement services and enhance interorganizational collaboration in travel agency supply chains.

Originality/value

This study developed a multifaceted evaluation framework and identified four CSFs to assist in the adoption of B2B e-procurement systems in travel agency supply chains.
Bank employees’ perception of Islamic finance in a non-Islamic developing country: the case of Cameroon
Authors: Ngaha Roméo Parfait , Moungou Mbenda Sabine Patricia
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The perception of Islamic finance by its various stakeholders is not always reconcilable. Its foundations and attributes are subject to a plurality of perceptions making it almost impossible to reach a consensus about them. This paper aims to understand the perception of Islamic finance by bank employees in Cameroon.

Design/methodology/approach

This research follows the interpretativist paradigm and is qualitative and exploratory in nature. The data are collected through semi-structured face-to-face interviews with bank employees, mainly branch managers. These interview data are analysed using the thematic analysis method.

Findings

Bank employees in Cameroon perceive Islamic finance as a finance that: targets everyone, regardless of religion, but Muslims first (Islamic finance is both inclusive and exclusive); offers original products and services; has a religious anchor that may hinder non-Muslim economic agents; has many advantages, mainly for financial institutions, and some limitations for financial institutions and their customers; is full of opportunities for its stakeholders; and is not yet fully practiced in Cameroon.

Originality/value

This study mobilises a qualitative approach, provides new insights into the research on the perception of Islamic finance and reaches a consensus on the perception of certain aspects and attributes of Islamic finance, namely, for the perception of the target and the Shariah compliance of Islamic finance. Furthermore, this study is a pioneering effort to understand bank employees’ perception of Islamic finance in non-Islamic and developing countries where Islamic finance is underdeveloped.
Policy approach adopted for issuance of Green Sukuk: is priority given to priority needed areas?
Authors: Rahman Abdur , Ahmad Abu Umar Faruq , Bin-Nashwan Saeed Awadh , Muneeza Aishath , Abdul Halim Asma Hakimah , Markom Ruzian
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Green Sukuk (GS) is a recent innovation that has the potential to serve humankind in sustainable development. However, its potential can only be achieved if the proceeds of GS are used for the priority areas needed. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find out, using selected GS issued to determine whether the proceeds of GS are actually given to the needed areas.

Design/methodology/approach

This is qualitative research utilizing case studies where the “priorities given” areas are observed through information collected from the library that consists of primary and secondary sources, such as statutes, books, articles and internet sources, while “priorities needed to issue GS” areas are determined through information collected from Al-Quran and Hadiths to derive conclusions.

Findings

The outcome of this study reveals some untouched areas that needed immediate attention where GS can be implemented. This study recommends implementing GS for the plant, agriculture, forests, road, water, animal and others. One example in this regard is to create “forest sukuk,” which is a tool for financing forest preservation.

Originality/value

It is anticipated that, via the outcome of this research, GS issuance frameworks can be enhanced, especially in revising the areas in which Sukuk proceeds can be used, and it will provide guidance to the potential GS issuers to choose financing projects.
Developing theoretical lenses for upstream halal businesses
Authors: Islam Mohammad Mominul , Ab Talib Mohamed Syazwan , Muhamad Nazlida
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to underline Islamic principles to the business theories for producers and policymakers and to explain halal marketing by value creation approach for halal stakeholders concerned with halal certification and its implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applied inductive reasoning with the systematic literature review (SLR) of peer-reviewed published research papers, followed by the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses framework. Furthermore, the content analysis with ATLAS.ti 2022 helped to undergo concept and thematic analysis that show the theoretical lenses for the upstream halal businesses.

Findings

Among 360 papers, the SLR from 2012 to 2022 found 32 papers dealing with the halal theory–based studies on certification, standards, producers and policymakers and halal supply chains. Only seven studies consulted the resource-based view (RBV), a strategy theory and the institutional theory (IT) connected to halal. This study further underpinned qualitative Quranic verses to add to the current body of RBV and IT, resulting in halal sustainable competitive advantage and halal certification institutionalization.

Practical implications

Islamic principles can guide halal stakeholders to create and manage valuable resources through halal certification. Also, academics can synthesize conventional theories as value-creation mechanisms compliant with Islamic codes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this novel study was the first to contribute to the current body of RBV and IT with Islamic principles. It has primarily concentrated on the upstream halal businesses to create and manage halal value, certification and competitive advantages for halal marketing.
The mechanism of knowledge management process toward minimizing technical risks under green implementation network: a direct and configurational approach
Authors: Alam Sajjad , Zhang Jianhua , Muhammad Said , Ali Ahmad , Khan Naveed
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The knowledge management (KM) sharing process plays an essential role in manufacturing under Green Implementation Network (GIN). This study aims to analyze the KM process of adopting a GIN to determine the relative importance of technical risk minimization. The proposed conceptual model was tested by considering two interrelated concepts (GIN and KM process).

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data from manufacturing companies in Henan province, China, were collected through 276 questionnaires. PLS-SEM and fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) were applied to investigate the configurational path of minimizing the technical risk in the manufacturing process.

Findings

The findings showed that the GIN and KM processes minimize the technical risk. The fsQCA reported multiple configurational of GIN and KM processes validated toward technical risk reduction. The study's findings contribute to the existing body of knowledge on technical risk reduction in manufacturing concerns by investigating the complex intersection between GIN and KM process.

Originality/value

This research adds to current GIN and KM literature by focusing on the green process using a resource-based view (RBV) and socio-technical theories. The current study provides practical and theoretical justification for explaining the relationship between GIN and KM processes. Moreover, this study adds to the literature by providing evidence that KM is an essential manufacturing industry enabler in minimizing technical risk.
The impact of social media evolution on practitioner-stakeholder relationships in brand management
Authors: Cooper Tony , Stavros Constantino , Dobele Angela R.
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the tension in brand management created through the rapid transformation of social media, mapping the maintenance of increasingly complex B2B relationship dynamics with key intermediaries.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews with 17 social media practitioners from leading fashion brands, agencies and platforms in the UK and Australia informed this study. Analysis used grounded theory, and results were interpreted through the lens of network and stakeholder theories.

Findings

Social media platforms have evolved into critical brand stakeholders, serving as gatekeepers in an increasingly unbalanced system between provider and marketer. The perpetuation of a hierarchical power dynamic affects the development of both practitioner and firm capabilities with negative implications and consequences for organisational control of branded social media communications. Three theoretical propositions are offered relating to the nature of platform hegemony, the notion of social media democratisation and the limiting impact of rapid change on the formation of relational ties.

Originality/value

This study extends the conceptualisation of communal custody of brands in social media settings to incorporate a growing number of commercial stakeholders, challenging the traditional dyadic consumer-brand relational paradigm. This study sheds new light on the impact of digital transformation on power distributions in social media communities not hitherto addressed.
#infertility: how patients can benefit from the public discussion of conversational taboos on social media
Authors: Grothaus Jana , Köcher Sören , Köcher Sarah , Dieterle Stefan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how the open discussion of infertility-related topics on public social media platforms contributes to the well-being of individuals affected by infertility.

Design/methodology/approach

For this study, the authors used a netnographic approach to analyze 69 YouTube videos (>21 h of raw data) produced by infertility vloggers and more than 40,000 user comments.

Findings

The authors identify two ways in which infertility patients benefit from public discussions of the topic on social media: through watching videos and engaging in discussions, patients satisfy their infertility-related needs (i.e. the need for information, emotional support and experience sharing); and through reaching people who are not affected by infertility, vloggers help to de-taboo the issue as well as sensitize and educate society.

Practical implications

To providers of tabooed services, this study’s findings emphasize the potential of incorporating social media in the consumer support strategy.

Social implications

This research highlights the value of the public discussion of infertility-related topics on social media platforms for consumers affected by the issue.

Originality/value

In this study, the public discussion of infertility-related topics through video blogs is presented as a valuable tool to enhance the well-being of individuals confronted with infertility as these vlogs satisfy related needs of the consumers and contribute to de-tabooing.
Exploring social responsibility, social marketing and happiness using artificial intelligence, automated text analysis and correspondence analysis
Authors: Galiano-Coronil Araceli , Aguirre Montero Alexander , López Sánchez Jose Antonio , Díaz Ortega Rosario
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This work aims to examine the communication on Twitter of the most responsible companies in Spain to identify the topics covered on corporate social responsibility (CSR) from the perspective of happiness and social marketing. In addition, the profiles of the messages that show an association with the impact of the messages have been identified.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical analysis of the Twitter posts of Spain's ten most responsible companies has been carried out. The methodology of this work combines data mining techniques, sentiment analysis and content analysis, both from a quantitative and qualitative approach.

Findings

The results show that most brand tweets do not deal with CSR-related topics. The topics they address the most are those related to sports and the weather. From the perspective of social marketing, conversational-type tweets are the most published and have achieved the most significant reaction from the public. In addition, four messages' profiles have been identified based on the company and the emotional connotation associated with the impact, giving rise to more outstanding promotion of social causes.

Originality/value

Our main contribution to this work has been to value positive communication and social marketing to promote better CSR on Twitter. In this sense, it has been verified that there is a relationship between the public's reaction, the affective connotation and the company that issues the messages.
Configurational analysis of corporate governance and corporate social responsibility reporting assurance: understanding the role of board and CSR committee
Authors: Mardawi Zeena , Dwekat Aladdin , Meqbel Rasmi , Carmona Ibáñez Pedro
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Reacting to the calls in the contemporary literature to further examine the relationship between board attributes and firms’ decisions to obtain corporate social responsibility assurance (CSRA) through the use of pioneering techniques, this study aims to analyse the influence of such attributes together with the existence of a corporate social responsibility (CSR) committee on the adoption of CSRA using fuzzy set qualitative comparative analysis (Fs-QCA).

Design/methodology/approach

Fs-QCA was performed on a sample of nonfinancial European companies listed on the STOXX Europe 600 index over the period 2016–2018.

Findings

The study findings indicate that the decision to obtain a CSRA report depends on a complex combination of the influence of the CSR committee and certain board attributes, such as size, experience, independence, meeting frequency, gender and CEO separation. These attributes play essential contributing roles and, if suitably combined, stimulate the adoption of CSRA.

Practical implications

The study findings are important for policymakers, professionals, organisations and regulators in forming and modifying the rules and guidelines related to CSR committees and board composition.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study represents the first examination of the impact of board attributes and CSR committees on the adoption of CSRA using Fs-QCA method. It also offers a novel methodological contribution to the board-CSRA literature by combining traditional statistical (logistic regression) and Fs-QCA methods. This study emphasises the benefits of Fs-QCA as an alternative to logistic regression analysis. Through the use of these methods, the research illustrates that Fs-QCA offers more detailed and informative results when compared to those obtained through logistic regression analysis. This finding highlights the potential of Fs-QCA to enhance our understanding of complex phenomena in academic research.
Social media and business innovation capabilities toward enhancing firm's performance: an empirical research from environmental quality approach
Authors: Le Thanh Tiep , Chakrabarti Sukalpa
Published: May 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is to provide a further understanding of how and when social media (SM) boosts firm performance (FP) by exploring the mediation role of business innovation capabilities (BI) and firm competitiveness (FC) in the link between SM and FP.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative approach using small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs) in emerging market as an empirical field of research. The population of this study is the management level of SMEs and professionals. This study surveyed 425 samples to get primary data for quantitative analysis. This study uses Smart PLS SEM version 3.3.2 to analyze the collected data.

Findings

This study found that SM directly and indirectly affects FP through BI and FC. Besides, BI and FC mediated the relationship between SM and FP.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in the operationalization of an unexplored integrated framework using SMEs in emerging market as an empirical field of research from the perspective of combination of diffusion of innovations theory and resource advantage theory. This study thus provides a new approach to the potential of SM for business innovation capabilities oriented toward sustainability. Drawing on the findings of this study, theoretical and managerial implications are proposed which may be of great interests to business practitioners, business owners, business directors and managers to operate their organizations efficiently through making optimal use of SM platforms.