bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical cell assemblies and their underlying connectivity: anin silicostudy
Authors: Ecker András , Santander Daniela Egas , Bolaños-Puchet Sirio , Isbister James B. , Reimann Michael W.
Published: February 2023

Recent developments in experimental techniques have enabled simultaneous recordings from thousands of neurons, enabling the study of functional cell assemblies. However, determining the patterns of synaptic connectivity giving rise to these assemblies remains challenging. To address this, we developed a complementary, simulation-based approach, using a detailed, large-scale cortical network model. Using a combination of established methods we detected functional cell assemblies from the stimulus-evoked spiking activity of 186,665 neurons. We studied how the structure of synaptic connectivity underlies assembly composition, quantifying the effects of thalamic innervation, recurrent connectivity, and the spatial arrangement of synapses on den-drites. We determined that these features reduce up to 30%, 22%, and 10% of the uncertainty of a neuron belonging to an assembly. The detected assemblies were activated in a stimulus-specific sequence and were grouped based on their position in the sequence. We found that the different groups were affected to different degrees by the structural features we considered. Additionally, connectivity was more predictive of assembly membership if its direction aligned with the temporal order of assembly activation, if it originated from strongly interconnected populations, and if synapses clustered on dendritic branches. In summary, reversing Hebb’s postulate, we showed how cells that are wired together, fire together, quantifying how connectivity patterns interact to shape the emergence of assemblies. This includes a qualitative aspect of connectivity: not just the amount, but also the local structure matters; from the subcellular level in the form of dendritic clustering to the presence of specific network motifs. This connectivity-based characterization of cell assemblies creates an opportunity to study plasticity at the assembly level, and beyond strictly pairwise interactions.
Insights into intraspecific diversity of central carbon metabolites inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeduring wine fermentation
Authors: Monnin Ludovic , Nidelet Thibault , Noble Jessica , Galeote Virginie
Published: February 2023

Saccharomyces cerevisiaeis a major actor in winemaking that converts sugars from the grape must into ethanol and CO2with outstanding efficiency. Primary metabolites produced during fermentation have a great importance in wine. While ethanol content contributes to the overall profile, other metabolites like glycerol, succinate, etc., also have significant impacts, even when present in lower concentrations.S. cerevisiaeis known for its great genetic diversity that is related to its natural or technological environment. However, its range of metabolic diversity which can be exploited to enhance wine quality depends on the pathway considered. Our experiment assessed the diversity of primary metabolites production in a set of 51S. cerevisiaestrains from various genetic backgrounds. Results pointed out great yield differences depending on the metabolite considered, with ethanol having the least variation. A negative correlation between ethanol and glycerol was observed, confirming glycerol synthesis as a suitable lever to reduce ethanol yield. Genetic groups were linked to specific metabolic yields such as α-ketoglutarate or acetate. This research highlights the potential of using natural yeast diversity in winemaking and provides detailed data set on metabolite production of well known (ethanol, glycerol, acetate) or little-known (lactate) primary metabolites production.
Insights into a viral motor: the structure of the HK97 packaging termination assembly
Authors: Hawkins Dorothy E.D.P. , Bayfield Oliver , Fung Herman K.H. , Grba Daniel N , Huet Alexis , Conway James F. , Antson Alfred A.
Published: February 2023

Double-stranded DNA viruses utilise machinery, made of terminase proteins, to package viral DNA into the capsid. Forcosbacteriophage, a defined signal, recognised by small terminase, flanks each genome unit. Here we present the first structural data for acosvirus DNA packaging motor, assembled from the bacteriophage HK97 terminase proteins, procapsids encompassing the portal protein, and DNA containing acossite. The cryo-EM structure is consistent with the packaging termination state adopted after DNA cleavage, with DNA density within the large terminase assembly ending abruptly at the portal protein entrance. Retention of the large terminase complex after cleavage of the short DNA substrate suggests that motor dissociation from the capsid requires headful pressure, in common withpacviruses. Interestingly, the clip domain of the 12-subunit portal protein does not adhere to C12symmetry, indicating asymmetry induced by binding of the large terminase/DNA. The motor assembly is also highly asymmetric, showing a ring of 5 large terminase monomers, tilted against the portal. Variable degrees of extension between N- and C-terminal domains of individual subunits suggest a mechanism of DNA translocation driven by inter-domain contraction and relaxation.
Predicting S. aureus antimicrobial resistance with interpretable genomic space maps
Authors: Pikalyova Karina , Orlov Alexey , Horvath Dragos , Marcou Gilles , Varnek Alexandre
Published: February 2023

Increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a global healthcare threat. Methods for rapid selection of optimal antibiotic treatment are urgently needed to decrease the spread of AMR and associated mortality. The use of machine learning (ML) techniques based on genomic data to predict resistance phenotypes serves as a solution for the acceleration of the clinical response prior to phenotypic testing. Nonetheless, many existing ML methods lack interpretability and do not implicitly incorporate visualization of the sequence space that can be useful for extracting insightful patterns from genomic data. Herein, we present a methodology for AMR prediction and visualization of sequence space based on the non-linear dimensionality reduction method □ generative topographic mapping (GTM). This approach applied to data on AMR of >5000 S. aureus isolates retrieved from the PATRIC database yielded GTM models with reasonable accuracy for all drugs (balanced accuracy values ≥0.75). The GTMs represent data in the form of illustrative 2D maps of the genomic space and allow for antibiotic-wise comparison of resistance phenotypes. In addition to that, the maps were found to be useful for the analysis of genetic determinants responsible for drug resistance based on the data from the PATRIC database. Overall, the GTM-based methodology is a useful tool for the illustrative exploration of the genomic sequence space and modelling AMR and can be used as a tool complementary to the existing ML methods for AMR prediction.

Availability

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.7101559
The mechanical effect of functionalization in laminated composite material
Authors: Saracoglu Goksel , Ceritbinmez Ferhat , Özkan Vildan , Yapici Ahmet
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to systematically compare the effect of increasing fiber–matrix interface adhesion and matrix toughness in layered composite materials.

Design/methodology/approach

Silane ((3-glycidyloxypropyl) trimethoxysilane) was applied to strengthen the fiber–matrix interface connection in e-glass/epoxy laminated composite material. Using a cationic surfactant, 0.1% multi-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) were added to the matrix in two different ways, by with and without chemical functionalization using the vacuum infusion method.

Findings

In the results obtained from the three-point bending test specimens, it was determined that the synergistic effect of silane application and non-functionalized CNT in the matrix was higher in terms of flexural modulus and strength values.

Practical implications

The functionalization of multi-walled CNT did not give the expected results because of reasons such as viscosity increase and agglomeration in the matrix.

Originality/value

In this study, a simple model for normalization and prediction purposes was developed, which allows the determination of the flexural modulus and un-notched flexural strength values from one test result of the notched specimen. A systematic comparison was performed by varying each parameter in the composite material.
Exploring social value and their enablers as business models for sustainable water supply projects
Authors: Ojuri Omoleye , Mills Grant R.W. , Opoku Alex
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This work aims to understand how social value is created and delivered using community-based water supply projects. It examines social value creation given the enabling concepts – value co-creation and service ecosystems as business models for infrastructure.

Design/methodology/approach

Inductive reasoning, including qualitative research design, was applied to two water supply projects. The qualitative stage created social value co-creation features using the purposive sampling of 72 semi-structured interviews.

Findings

The qualitative analysis features social value co-creation, which includes a sense of social unity, end-user empowerment, Behavioural transformation, and knowledge transfer. Although value destruction also emerged while examining social value co-creation, the research identifies the “red flags” and value contradictions that must be avoided.

Research limitations/implications

The enablers of sustainable infrastructure projects should include social value, service ecosystems and value co-creation.

Practical implications

There is a need for the government and non-governmental organisations to create enabling platforms that involve a planned dialogical communication process supporting the development and enhancement of relationships of stakeholders to maximise social value from infrastructure projects.

Originality/value

The work offers a widened perspective of social value creation and a new framework called “Social value co-creation/destruction” (SVCC/SVCD) as the business model for sustainable infrastructure projects. It is the first attempt to illustrate social value creation in construction from service ecosystems and value co-creation perspectives.
Strategic frameworks for sustainability and corporate governance in healthcare facilities; approaches to energy-efficient hospital management
Authors: Dion Helen , Evans Martin
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The issue of energy efficiency is becoming increasingly prevalent globally due to factors such as the expansion of the population, economic growth and excessive consumption that is not sustainable in the long run. Additionally, healthcare facilities and hospitals are facing challenges as their operational costs continue to rise. The research aim is to develop strategic frameworks for managing green hospitals, towards energy efficiency and corporate governance in hospitals and healthcare facilities.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employs a qualitative case study approach, with a sample of ten hospitals examined through interviews with senior management, executives and healthcare facilities managers. Relevant data was also collected from literature and analysed through critical appraisal and content analysis. The research methodology is based on the use of grounded theory research methodologies to build theories from case studies.

Findings

The research developed three integrated conceptual strategic frameworks for managing hospitals and healthcare facilities towards energy efficiency, green hospital initiatives and corporate governance. The research also outlined the concepts of green hospitals and energy efficiency management systems and best practices based on the conclusions drawn from the investigated case studies.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to the initiatives and experiences of the healthcare facilities studied in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Originality/value

The research findings, conclusions, recommendations and proposed frameworks and concepts contribute significantly to the existing body of knowledge. This research also provides recommendations for hospital managers and policymakers on how to effectively implement and manage energy efficiency initiatives in healthcare facilities.
Examining behavioural intention of using smart health care technology among females: dynamics of social influence and perceived usefulness
Authors: Gani Mohammad Osman , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir , Bag Surajit , Mia Md. Papul
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is to comprehend the behavioural intention of females' perception toward smart healthcare technology. The study also examines the moderation effect of social influences between perceived smart healthcare technology and perceived usefulness among female users.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the model, this study collected data from female respondents (n = 913) responses. The data were analyzed by structural equation modeling (SEM) using Smart-PLS 3.2. To complement the findings from structural equation modeling, the study also conducted a post-hoc test via experimental research design. The authors also applied a t-test and PROCESS macro analysis to re-confirm the relationship mentioned above.

Findings

The findings revealed that perceived ease of use significantly mediates the relationship between females' perceived smart healthcare technology and intention to use. The findings also show that social influence moderates between smart healthcare technology and the perceived usefulness relationship.

Research limitations/implications

Social influence is one of the major issues while adopting smart healthcare technology because the respondents perceived that they are accustomed to the technologies related to smart health once their surroundings and social environment influence them.

Originality/value

The current study is a pioneer in the context of a developing country and unique in that it makes two contributions: it extends previous research on smart health technology adoption in the healthcare business by considering females, and it gives a broad knowledge of the female healthcare consumers from emerging nations which can be useful for developing technology-driven healthcare services strategies.
Corporate governance and anti-corruption disclosure
Authors: Previtali Pietro , Cerchiello Paola
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In recent years, the role of environmental, social and governance (ESG) disclosure has become crucial. The aim of this paper is to study how corporate governance affects one part of ESG disclosure: anti-corruption disclosure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined 140 corporate social responsibility (CSR) reports from companies listed on the Italian stock markets and 50 CSR reports from other companies, then this study analysed the adoption of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) standard no. 205.

Findings

The results show a low level of disclosure, and that corporate governance issues matter. In particular, the analysis found a positive relationship between the presence of female and outside members, the number of board members and the level of anti-corruption disclosure.

Research limitations/implications

This study acknowledges some limitations. Firstly, the research is based on a one-year sample. Secondly, the research hypotheses are confirmed only when considered in relation to a single section of the GRI standards. Thirdly, this study has a bias towards relatively large enterprises.

Practical implications

It could be worthwhile introducing a soft regulation regarding the composition of the board of directors that requires a certain quantitative and qualitative composition.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the few studies, the first in Italy, that sheds light on anti-corruption disclosure and its determinants.
Multi-objective optimization design of novel tubular switched reluctance motor
Authors: Zhan Yiming , Chen Hao , Hua Mengyu , Liu Jinfu , He Hao , Wheeler Patrick , Li Xiaodong , Fernao Pires Vitor
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to achieve the multi-objective optimization design of novel tubular switched reluctance motor (TSRM).

Design/methodology/approach

First, the structure and initial dimensions of TSRM are obtained based on design criteria and requirements. Second, the sensitivity analysis rules, process and results of TSRM are performed. Third, three optimization objectives are determined by the average electromagnetic force, smoothing coefficient and copper loss ratio. The analytic hierarchy process-entropy method-a technique for order preference by similarity to an ideal solution-grey relation analysis comprehensive evaluation algorithm is used to optimize TSRM. Finally, a prototype is manufactured, a hardware platform is built and static and dynamic experimental validations are carried out.

Findings

The sensitivity analysis reveals that parameters significantly impact the performance of TSRM. The results of multi-objective optimization show that the average electromagnetic force and smoothing coefficient after optimization are better than before, and the copper loss ratio reduces slightly. The experimental and simulated results of TSRM are consistent, which verifies the accuracy of TSRM.

Research limitations/implications

In this paper, only three optimization objectives are selected in the multi-objective optimization process. To improve the performance of TSRM, the heating characteristics, such as iron loss, can be considered as the optimization objective for a more comprehensive analysis of TSRM performance.

Originality/value

A novel motor structure is designed, combining the advantages of the TSRM and the linear motor. The established sensitivity analysis rules are scientific and suitable for the effects of various parameters on motor performance. The proposed multi-objective optimization algorithm is a comprehensive evaluation algorithm. It considers subjective weight and objective weight and fully uses the original data and the relational degree between the optimization objectives.
The United States Air Force pilot diversity dilemma
Authors: Russell Brandon Robert
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The paper aims to examine literature on the issues of the pilot shortage in the United States Air Force and the demographic diversity dilemma within the United States Air Force pilot community and how it relates to the National Defense Strategy. In addition, there is an examination of current initiatives designed to combat these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for an exploratory review of 90 sources from 2012 to 2023 to examine the pilot shortage and pilot diversity issues within the United States Air Force. Three theories, the theory of generative interactions, the theory of cognitive diversity and the identity theory, were examined in relation to the barriers to the pilot diversity issue.

Findings

The paper provides emergent insights from the literature into the growing pilot shortage and diversity disparity found within the United States Air Force pilot community. These issues were associated with many barriers, including geographic disparity, socioeconomic status, culture, education, mentorship and life balance.

Research limitations/implications

The current initiatives examined are new and, as such, warrant future research. In particular, what are the long-term projections for the youth flight programs? An examination of the effectiveness of improving the pilot shortage and pilot diversity within the Air Force should be further scrutinized in the coming years as new cadets enter pilot training after accession.

Originality/value

This paper highlights a need to further study the effectiveness of youth flight programs and other United States Air Force initiatives in improving pilot numbers and diversity.
Managing managerial coaching: the role of stakeholders
Authors: Carvalho Charles , Kurian Prasad Oommen , Carvalho Sheldon , Carvalho Fallan Kirby
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss several obstacles that can reduce the effectiveness of managerial coaching. Furthermore, the paper highlights the role played by various stakeholders [i.e. the organization, senior leaders, the human resources (HR) function and managers] in overcoming or reducing the potency of such obstacles.

Design/methodology/approach

The views presented here have been derived from the authors’ professional experience in managerial coaching and a review of the literature on managerial coaching.

Findings

The authors discuss six common obstacles to effective managerial coaching: time for coaching, willingness to coach, ability to coach, employees’ ability and willingness, societal expectations and the intrusion of technology. They describe the critical role of various stakeholders (i.e. the organization, senior leaders, the HR function and line managers) in overcoming or mitigating the impact of such obstacles, thus contributing to effective managerial coaching.

Originality/value

A discussion of the obstacles to effective managerial coaching and the role of stakeholders in managerial coaching is valuable for organizations that seek to enhance the performance of employees through managerial coaching.
Government influence on logistics and supply chain innovations: assessing implications for firm performance and societal impact in an emerging economy
Authors: Baah Charles , Agyabeng-Mensah Yaw , Afum Ebenezer , Acquah Innocent Senyo Kwasi , Essel Dacosta
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Significant unexplored research gaps exist in relation to assessing how governments influence innovations in the logistics and supply chains of SMEs to mitigate risks. This study emphasizes the impacts of regulatory coercion and government subsidization on logistics and supply chain innovations and the corresponding effect of logistics and supply chain innovations on financial performance, logistics and supply chain robustness, green competitiveness, social and environmental responsibilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative approach, partial least square structural equation modeling and a survey research design, data were collected and analyzed on 210 logistics and manufacturing firms.

Findings

The results support the fundamentals of the stakeholder theory and natural resources-based view (NRBV) regarding the positive impacts of regulatory coercion and government subsidization on logistics and supply chain innovations. Furthermore, logistics and supply chain innovations significantly influenced firm performance (financial performance, logistics and supply chain robustness and green competitiveness) and societal impact (social and environmental responsibilities). Particularly, while logistics and supply chain innovations had insignificant influence on social and environmental responsibilities, the effects of logistics and supply chain robustness were significant.

Originality/value

The study presents empirical findings on the impact of government influences on logistics and supply chain management and the corresponding implications for firms and society. Thus, this study contributes to corporate social responsibility (CSR) and logistics and supply chain literature and provides guidance for policymakers, industry players, scholars and practitioners.
Can the transmission of entrepreneurs' We Media information improve the value relevance of earnings? Evidence from China
Authors: Sun Tong , Chen Wanyi
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Following the growing adoption of social media, many entrepreneurs are launching personal social media channels. This study focuses on the effect of entrepreneurs' shared information on We Media platforms on the value relevance of their earnings.

Design/methodology/approach

Using entrepreneurs' We Media data collected from A-share-listed companies on the Shanghai and Shenzhen Stock Exchanges from 2010 to 2018, this study investigates the effect of the data on the value relevance of earnings using the modified Ohlson model. The authors applied textual analysis to retrieve entrepreneurial We Media data acquired manually from Weibo.

Findings

We Media platforms can increase the value relevance of earnings. Entrepreneurs can enhance investor trust by establishing social ties with investors. Investors are more likely to recognize earnings information publicized by enterprises, owing to internal consistency. Particularly, value relevance improves significantly with more personal information being posted and more “likes” being acquired on entrepreneurs' We Media accounts. This positive effect is more obvious in privately owned and highly marketized regions.

Originality/value

The findings extend the research on the economic consequences of We Media as an important information channel, enrich the research on the social media posting behavior of entrepreneurs and provide a reference for enterprises to instill trust using new information disclosure methods and for governments to establish a safe internet environment to promote the sustainable development of the capital market.
Lean supply chain management: a contextual contingent reconceptualization and Delphi method study
Authors: Naranjo Fernando , Menor Larry J. , Johnson P. Fraser
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This research proposes and illustrates a conditional view of lean supply chain management (LSCM) based upon the contextual contingent alignment between lean performance objectives (i.e. a contextual factor) and supply chain management challenges (i.e. a contingent condition) in the selection of lean approaches (i.e. a contingent event).

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the notions of contingency-based practices and strategic fit, the authors’ LSCM reconceptualization jointly considers contextual and contingency factors in specifying what lean approaches to adopt. The authors illustrate the practical relevance of LSCM reconceptualization for the Canadian agri-food industry using the Delphi method.

Findings

The authors highlight that LSCM is founded upon alignment associations between specific lean performance objectives and supply chain challenges as well as their influence on the selection of suitable lean approaches. The empirical illustration shows that those alignment associations do not occur at random, which supports the conditional view of LSCM.

Research limitations/implications

The contextual contingent view of LSCM can inform future scholarly inquiry and can reframe practically relevant middle-range theorization on LSCM.

Practical implications

The Delphi method-derived descriptive model of LSCM provides guidance to managers in the Canadian agri-food sector in identifying suitable lean approaches to adopt given the specific performance objective(s) pursued and supply chain management challenge(s) encountered.

Originality/value

The authors advance scholarly theorization and managerial understanding of LSCM by providing a conditional conceptualization that jointly considers relevant contextual and contingency factors that hitherto have not been examined. In ascribing what lean approach(es) to adopt to the alignment associations influence between lean performance objective(s) pursued and supply chain management challenge(s) encountered, the authors provide compelling conceptual and empirical support for the joint conditional view of LSCM.
Performance analysis of edge, fog and cloud computing paradigms for real-time video quality assessment and phishing detection
Authors: Fowdur Tulsi Pawan , Shaikh Abdoolla M.A.N. , Doobur Lokeshwar
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to perform a comparative analysis of the delay associated in running two real-time machine learning-based applications, namely, a video quality assessment (VQA) and a phishing detection application by using the edge, fog and cloud computing paradigms.

Design/methodology/approach

The VQA algorithm was developed using Android Studio and run on a mobile phone for the edge paradigm. For the fog paradigm, it was hosted on a Java server and for the cloud paradigm on the IBM and Firebase clouds. The phishing detection algorithm was embedded into a browser extension for the edge paradigm. For the fog paradigm, it was hosted on a Node.js server and for the cloud paradigm on Firebase.

Findings

For the VQA algorithm, the edge paradigm had the highest response time while the cloud paradigm had the lowest, as the algorithm was computationally intensive. For the phishing detection algorithm, the edge paradigm had the lowest response time, and the cloud paradigm had the highest, as the algorithm had a low computational complexity. Since the determining factor for the response time was the latency, the edge paradigm provided the smallest delay as all processing were local.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this work is that the experiments were performed on a small scale due to time and budget constraints.

Originality/value

A detailed analysis with real applications has been provided to show how the complexity of an application can determine the best computing paradigm on which it can be deployed.
Technology: a strategic imperative for successful retailers
Authors: Quinones Myriam , Gomez-Suarez Monica , Cruz-Roche Ignacio , Díaz-Martín Ana M.
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, technology is rewriting the way consumers shop as well as the retail operating models. In this context, investment in new technologies is a strategic imperative for retailers striving to remain relevant and profitable. Using Kahn's Retail Success Matrix as the conceptual framework, the aim of the study is to propose a classification of emerging technologies based on their potential for sustaining retailers' competitive strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an initial qualitative study based on in-depth interviews and focus groups with 20 retail managers, the authors collected survey data from a sample of 168 retail and technology professionals. To achieve the research objectives, content, descriptive and multiple correspondence factor analyses were carried out.

Findings

The data analyses result on a map that plots the technological solutions that retail experts identify as enablers of four key competitive strategies: product superiority, enhanced customer experience, frictionless shopping experience and operational excellence.

Practical implications

This research work provides valuable insight into how retail companies can capitalise on technology to create or reinforce their competitive positioning. The framework acts as a guide for retail companies to assess their technology priorities.

Originality/value

This exploratory empirical study is the result of a collaboration between academic researchers and retail professionals. Thus, it addresses challenges experienced by key stakeholders. The encompassing classification enables a better understanding of the impact of technology on retailers' competitive positioning.
Technology-enabled well-being in the era of IR4.0: marketing and public policy implications
Authors: Roy Abhijit , Bakpayev Marat , Boninsegni Melanie Florence , Kumar Smriti , Peronard Jean-Paul , Reimer Thomas
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Technological progress and the advancement of the 4th Industrial Revolution (IR 4.0) are well underway. However, its influence on the transformation of core sectors from the perspective of consumer well-being remains under-explored. Seeking to bridge this gap in the marketing and public policy literature, this study aims to propose a conceptual framework to explicate how data-driven, intelligent and connected IR 4.0 technologies are blurring traditional boundaries between digital, physical and biological domains.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper using primarily a literature review of the field. The authors position the work as a contribution to consumer well-being and public policy literature from the lens of increasingly important in our technology-integrated society emerging technologies.

Findings

The authors define and conceptualize technology-enabled well-being (TEW), which allows a better understanding of transformative outcomes of IR 4.0 on three essential dimensions of consumer well-being: individual, societal and environmental. Finally, the authors discuss public policy implications and outline future research directions.

Originality/value

The authors highlight specific gaps in the literature on IR 4.0. First, past studies in consumer well-being did not incorporate substantial changes that emerging IR 4.0 technologies bring, especially across increasingly blurring digital, physical and biological domains. Second, past research focused on individual technologies and individual well-being. What is unaccounted for is the potential for a synergetic, proactive effect that emerging technologies bring on the aggregate level not only to individuals but also to society and the environment. Finally, understanding the differences between responses to different outcomes of technologies has important implications for developing public policy. Synergetic, proactive effect of technologies on core sectors such as healthcare, education, financial services, manufacturing and retailing is noted.
Between rules, norms and shared understandings: how institutional pressures shape the implementation of data-driven communications
Authors: Economou Emmanuel , Luck Edwina , Bartlett Jennifer
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Big data and analytics make digital communications more effective, but little is known about how institutional pressures shape data-driven communications. These pressures determine and constrain how, what, when and to whom practitioners should communicate. This empirical study explores how institutional forces influence the use of data in guiding digital communications. The paper identifies factors that impact communications and shape practitioner views on particular tools in their day-to-day work.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a qualitative exploratory approach with in-depth interviews of 15 Australian communication practitioners through the lens of neo-institutional theory. Thematic analysis was applied to identify three main themes.

Findings

Communications professionals disclosed how they were influenced by coercive institutional forces such as ambiguous data privacy regulations, normative forces that shaped ethical concerns, professionalism and various challenges, and mimetic forces that determined shared methods and implementation of digital communications technologies such as analytics. Furthermore, the authors reveal how analytics – tools typically associated with uncertainty and mimetic influences – exert coercive pressures that could lead to misguided decision-making.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s findings highlight the need for practitioners to learn more about the inner workings of analytics tools and for managers to determine if the perceived benefits of these solutions outweigh any undesirable effects.

Practical implications

The study contributes to extant research on digitalization in strategic communication by providing new insights into practitioner views and challenges with digital communications technologies.

Originality/value

Despite the considerable effects of institutional pressures, this study is the first to explore the impacts of data-driven communications at the level of individual practitioners. The paper advances neo-institutional theory in public relations (PR), strategic communication and corporate communications at the micro level.
Exploring the stigmatisation of offending and non-offending paedophiles: a terror management approach
Authors: Maroño Abbie , Bartels Ross M. , Hill Kimberley , Papagathonikou Theodoros , Hitchman Glenn
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Paedophilic individuals are a highly misunderstood and stigmatised group, with the general public tending to equate paedophilia with child sexual abuse. Given that paedophilia is often conflated as a psychiatric/mental health disorder and an extreme violent offence, the current study examined whether the stigma towards paedophilic individuals is related to negative associations with severe mental illness and extreme violence. The authors also used the terror management theory (TMT) to provide further insights into why paedophilia is so highly stigmatised.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 126 participants was split into one of six conditions and provided punitive and moral character judgements, as well as salience of death thoughts. Conditions were divided into three main stigma conditions (paedophilia vs schizophrenia vs homicidal ideation), which were further divided into two conditions (offending vs non-offending).

Findings

Results showed that judgements were harsher in the offending conditions than the non-offending conditions. Results also showed that the stigmatisation of paedophilic and schizophrenic individuals may be mediated by terror management processes. These findings suggest that paedophilia is believed to be associated with severe forms of mental illness where an individual is not able to control their own state of mind.

Research limitations/implications

Thus, addressing perceptions of dangerousness towards individuals with severe mental illness is a crucial step towards developing effective strategies to help reduce such stigma.

Originality/value

As one of the first studies to use TMT in this way, the current study provided much-needed insight into an important and under-researched area using available methods for such a sensitive topic.
When brokers start to fill structural holes: the cultural contingency of how entrepreneurs leverage structural holes to facilitate knowledge transfer
Authors: Liu Jiayuan , Xi Xiaoyu
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This study aims to theorize and empirically examine how guanxi in Chinese collectivistic culture affects entrepreneurs to leverage the structural holes they occupy when it comes to promoting knowledge transfer.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the hypotheses, this study used a mixed-methods research approach where quantitative questionnaires and social network analyses were used through 365 Chinese entrepreneurs, and qualitative semistructured interviews were conducted through 50 Chinese entrepreneurs.

Findings

In a Chinese entrepreneur’s guanxi network, structural holes will impede knowledge transfer among network members, but guanxi will moderate this impeding effect.

Research limitations/implications

By revealing how “structural hole controllers” become “structural hole fillers” under the moderating influence of guanxi in Chinese collectivistic culture, this study recognizes the different roles that persons who occupy a structural hole play in different situations, which advances structural hole theory. In addition, by exploring how entrepreneurs orchestrate these structural holes to create a strong guanxi network that can be infinitely extended, this study reveals a means to achieve both advantages of bonding and bridging social capital simultaneously, which generates a theoretical contribution to social capital integration.

Practical implications

This study suggests Chinese entrepreneurs to cultivate guanxi to improve their needs in decision-making by giving renqing, returning renqing, earning mianzi and giving mianzi.

Originality/value

By showing how Chinese entrepreneurs leverage their guanxi and structural holes to facilitate knowledge transfer, this study identifies the critical entrepreneurial behavior that promotes business development, thereby contributing to the literature of knowledge management, entrepreneurship and social network.
The strange potential of ANTi-History: a reply to Reveley
Authors: Durepos Gabrielle
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a reflexive review of ANTi-History written as a reply to a critique by James Reveley, published in the Journal of Management History, called “Firm objects: new realist insights into the sociohistorical ontology of the business enterprise.”

Design/methodology/approach

Reveley’s critique of ANTi-History focuses on three aspects, namely, matters of ontology, actors and relationalism. Using the logic of ANTi-History, the author reviews each and offers a reply.

Findings

This paper demonstrates that ANTi-History is inspired by amodern thought. This condition negates the need and desire to classify social and physical objects in the study of history. Drawing on Actor-Network Theory, ANTi-History assumes that historical actors are heterogeneous, and the consequence is that both human and nonhuman actors should feature in the study of history. The focus, in using ANTi-History, should be in-between the human and nonhuman actors that make up the past and history. This is the premise of using a relational lens.

Originality/value

The review of ANTi-History is structured as a reply to critiques of the approach. In reflecting on these criticisms, the author realizes that ANTi-History has gotten beyond its originators. As one of those originators, the author inspired to continue to develop its strange potential.
How line-manager leadership styles and employee-perceived HRM practices contribute to employee performance: a configurational perspective
Authors: Liu Bolong , Cui Zhisong , Nanyangwe Chilombo Namwinga
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to carry out a study on the combined effects of leadership styles and human resource management (HRM) practices on employee performance. Based on configurational theory, this study integrates task-oriented leadership, relations-oriented leadership, change-oriented leadership and human resource hygiene practices (HRHPs) and human resource motivation practices (HRMPs) to detect distinct configurations of leadership styles and HRM practices that may lead to high and not-high employee performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) was adopted to identify the configurations of conditions associated with the outcome, with data obtained from 108 employees and 32 line-managers in China through structured interview and questionnaire survey.

Findings

The results show that there are five sufficient configurations for the presence of high employee performance and three for performance's absence. Relation-oriented leadership, HRMPs and enterprise property are more important conditions to employee performance than others. Furthermore, no single condition constitutes a necessary condition for causing the high or not-high employee performance.

Originality/value

Compared to previous studies that mainly focused on linear relationships, this study applies the fsQCA method to explore how matching different leadership styles and HRM practices could bring about high and not-high employee performance, which provides evidence for the three propositions of “multiple conjunctural causation,” “equifinality” and “asymmetry.”
Should you invest in the companies that promote the Circular Economy idea?
Authors: Murali Madhuritha , Kayal Parthajit , Maiti Moinak
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The study looks into the idea of Circular Economy through the lens of stock market performance. More specifically the authors examine if a company's association with the innovative and environment friendly disposal practices has an implication on its stock market performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a quantitative approach to derive conclusions. The market efficiency and excess volatility are estimated using OHLC measures for more accuracy. For robustness checks VRatio, bootstrapping and simulation are used as detailed in section 3.2 of the study.

Findings

The study estimates show a clear sign of excess volatility in the majority of the stocks under consideration. That confirms that the market is highly fragmented for Circular Economy–focused stocks. These types of stocks are often cyclical in nature and can offer a variety investment opportunity in the short to medium term. In addition to it the study estimates confirm that Circular Economy–focused stocks show limited signs of market efficiency. Thus, unlike ESG investment the concept of Circular Economy investment is a bit more ambiguous to the global investors.

Originality/value

The present study is first of its kind that looks into the idea of Circular Economy through the lens of stock market performance.
The research of buckling and post-buckling behavior of bidirectional stiffened composite panel under discrete impact
Authors: Hu Haiyang , Wang Yu , Lian Chenchen , Wang Peiyan
Published: February 2023

Purpose

In this paper, an attempt is made to obtain buckling loads, ultimate bearing capacity and other required structural characteristics of grid structure panels. The numerical method for post-buckling behavior analysis of panels involving multiple invisible damages is also presented.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, two bidirectional stiffened composite panels are manufactured and tested. Multiple discrete invisible damages are introduced in different positions of the stringers, and the experimental and simulation investigation of buckling and post-buckling were carried out on the damaged stiffened panels.

Findings

The simulation load–displacement curves are compared with the experimental results, and it is found that the simulation model can well predict the occurrence of buckling and failure loads. The strain curve shows that the rate of strain change at the damaged site is greater than that at the undamaged site, which reflects that the debond is more likely occurred at the damaged site. The simulation verifies that the panel is usually crushed due to matrix compression and fiber–matrix shear.

Originality/value

In this paper, post-buckling tests and numerical simulations of bidirectional stiffened composite panels with impact damage were carried out. Two panels with four longitudinal stringers and two transverse stringers were manufactured and tested. The buckling and post-buckling characteristics of the grid structure are obtained, and the failure mechanism of the structure is explained. This is helpful for the design of wall panel structure.
Investigating the public's willingness to participate in the construction of smart cities: evidence from China
Authors: Wang Yanan , Zhang Yan , Zhang Wenkun , Zhang Tao
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate the factors influencing citizens' willingness to participate in the development of smart cities.

Design/methodology/approach

Citizens drawn from 30 second-tier cities in China were chosen as the research object for this empirical research. Based on citizenship behavior theory, research hypotheses were tested and analyzed using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The results indicated that information publicity has a direct and positive effect on residents' participation behavior. Perceived benefits, personal responsibility and subjective norms are positively associated with residents' citizenship. Additionally, citizenship was found to affect residents' participation intention positively. Finally, the moderating effect of information credibility in this context was also verified.

Originality/value

As one of the first empirical studies on this topic, this paper offers important guidance for future research regarding residents' participation in the development of smart cities. On this basis, the implications of this research with respect to policies that aim to encourage residents to participate in the construction of smart cities are discussed.