bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One-Step Rapid Synthesis of Al-Based Ag Dendrites for Highly Active and Cost Effective SERS Plasmonic Substrates
Authors: Huang Jian , Lei Zhe , Zhang Qian , Su Mei Juan , Liu Liang
Published: September 2020

Highly active Al-based Ag dendrites SERS plasmonic substrates have been rapidly synthesized by the one-step galvanic displacement reaction without the use of any surfactants and templates. The as-prepared SERS substrates were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and Raman spectroscopy. XRD measurements confirmed the metallic nature of the formed Ag dendrites. None of the organic additives were used in the synthesis process, which ensures the substrates surfaces are completely clean and avoiding the introduction of organic contaminants. The innovative rough bionic substrates yield a final silver dendritic structure that offers large specific surface area and high-density hotspots. Using malachite green as a model target, the Al-based Ag dendrites SERS substrates exhibited acceptable reproducibility (relative standard deviation of 23.8%) and high enhancement capacities (pushed the detection limit down to 10 pM). Importantly, these Ag dendrites could potentially be employed as highly active and cost effective flexible SERS sensors for label-free ultrasensitive detection of biomolecules.
The Effect of Ta2O5 on the Densification Behaviour and Mechanical Properties of Zirconia-Toughened Alumina (ZTA) Composites Prepared by Two-Stage Sintering
Authors: Loong Teow Hsien , Eh Noum Se Yong , Mun Wong Wai
Published: September 2020

By 2050, 130 million people are estimated to suffer from osteoarthritis worldwide which would require patients to undergo total hip replacement procedure which have a lifespan of 20 years and failure rates of ~1%. In this research, Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) which is the main biomaterial used for total hip arthroplasty were doped with varying vol % of Tantalum Oxide (Ta2O5) from 0 to 0.4 vol % were produced through conventional two-stage sintering with first stage sintering temperature, ranging between 1400°C and 1550°C, heated at 20°C/min, followed by second stage sintering temperature of 1350°C and hold for 12 hours. The efficacy of two-stage sintering on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the sintered samples were then evaluated. Addition of Ta2O5 combined with two-stage sintering were able to produce ZTA composites with enhanced grain size and mechanical properties compared to undoped ZTA composites. The samples with 0.3 vol% Ta2O5 content and above sintered at T1 ≥1450°C achieved density > 99% T.D., Vickers hardness > 19 GPa, Young’s modulus > 400 GPa and fracture toughness > 6 MPam1/2 when compared to undoped ZTA composites. This would enable production of ZTA with improved mechanical properties and lifespan ensuring the well-being of people suffering from osteoarthritis.
Two-Stage Sintering of Nb2O5 Doped Zirconia Toughened Alumina (ZTA) Composites
Authors: Loong Teow Hsien , Eh Noum Se Yong , Mun Wong Wai
Published: September 2020

It is estimated that 130 million people will suffer from osteoarthritis by 2050 which require patient to undergo a surgical procedure known as total hip replacement which has lifespan of 20 years and failure rates of ~1%. This research would highlight the effects of doping Niobium Oxide (Nb2O5) between 0 vol % to 0.8 vol % into Zirconia-Toughened Alumina (ZTA) composites which is the main biomaterials used to manufacture total hip arthroplasty. The samples were sintered using two-stage sintering (TSS) between 1400°C and 1550°C for first-stage sintering temperature at heating rate of 20°C/min. At second stage, the samples were sintered at 1350°C and hold for 12 hours. It was found that TSS combined with addition of Nb2O5 as dopants were beneficial in producing fine-grained ZTA composites with improved mechanical properties compared to undoped ZTA composites produced via TSS. Compared to undoped ZTA composites, samples doped with Nb2O5 and sintered at T1 ≥1400°C were fully densed (>98%), achieved Vickers hardness more than 20 GPa and Young’s modulus higher than 410 GPa and at the same time fracture toughness of more than 8 MPam1/2. Based on the findings, production of ZTA composites with enhanced mechanical properties with longer lifespan is possible which is beneficial in ensuring the well-being of osteoarthritis patients.
Physicochemical Characterization of Natural Diatomite from Lampang Province, Thailand as a Solid Catalyst
Authors: Kingkam Wilasinee , Nuchdang Sasikarn , Laowattanabandit Pipat , Rattanaphra Dussadee
Published: September 2020

This paper presents the studies on physical and chemical properties of the natural diatomite originating from Mae Tha District, Lampang the northern of Thailand as solid catalyst. The diatomite was characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and nitrogen adsorption-desorption isotherm. The effect of calcination temperature on chemical composition, cyrytalline phase and textural properties of diatomite was also investigated. The XRF results indicated that the diatomite was composed mostly of SiO2, K2O, CaO and MgO. The calcination temperature ranging from 300 to 900 °C had no effect on the crystalline phase of diatiomite. The high surface area and large pore size diameter of diatomite was observed when the calcination temperature was below 900 °C. All the physicochemical results show the existence of SiO2, K2O, CaO and MgO, the high surface area and pore size diameter, indicate that the diatomite could potentially be used to a solid catalyst for biodiesel production.
Study on the Construction and Performance of Completion Fluid System in Fractured Carbonate Reservoir
Authors: Chang Cong Bing , Shu Man , Han Yin Fu , Zhang Yi Hang , Tian Jin , Hu Shun , Zhao Qiang
Published: September 2020

There are microfractures and fractures in the carbonate formation of M oilfield, which are easy to cause collapse and borehole instability. On the basis of the liquefiable cleanflo drilling fluid system for open hole completion of horizontal wells designed in the early stage, this paper has carried out the research work of matching acidizing completion fluid system. In this paper, the influence factors, cleaning ability, compatibility, acidizing situation and protection effect of acidizing completion fluid system are evaluated in laboratory. The way of density adjustment and specific dosage of NaCl and hcoona were established to inhibit the formation of salt crystallization. HTA solid acid and JCI are used to counteract each other to reduce the corrosion of casing steel. The core displacement results show that the permeability recovery value of carbonate core after completion fluid treatment can reach 97.54%, and that of sandstone core after treatment can reach 114.7%. Moreover, the completion fluid system also has a certain acidizing effect, which can not only clean and remove the plugging, but also serve as the early induction of acidizing and stimulation.
IrO2-Based Monolithic Electrodes for Efficient and Stable Oxygen Evolution Reaction in Acid
Authors: Deng Qian , Li Bo , Wang Jin
Published: September 2020

Monolithic electrodes for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) have been successfully synthesized by hydrothermal method. Prolonging the hydrothermal duration and subsequent annealing treatment can increase the OER activities and stabilities of the samples. The IrO2/Ti-60h@400 shows excellent performance, which requires an overpotential of 391 mV at 100 mA cm-2, and could keep good activity at 200 mA cm-2 for 40 hours in acid electrolyte.
Research and Application of Concrete Winter Construction Techniques on Cast-in-Place Beams
Authors: Guo Yong Zhi , Jiang Rui Shuang
Published: September 2020

In this study, according to the climate characteristics of the micro-frozen area, the winter construction of cast-in-place beams is based on heat preservation, supplemented by electric tracing band (ETB) in weak areas, and verified by the model experiment. According to the situation of the construction site, winter construction techniques are formulated and optimized. The winter construction techniques are widely used in the reconstruction and expansion of Beijing to Shanghai expressway, Xintai to Ningyang expressway, Xintai to Taierzhuang expressway and other projects. No diseases in winter construction occurred in all application projects. The techniques are cost-effective and environmentally friendly.
Research the Microstructure and Properties of Modified Asphalt from Dry SBS-T
Authors: Fan Yu , Xie Jian Guang , Wang Zhan Qi
Published: September 2020

This paper uses a fluorescence microscope to study the microstructure of dry modified asphalt, and compares and analyzes the micro and macro performance of dry and wet modified asphalt. The results show that: in terms of micro performance, when the modifier content is 6%, the dry modifier (SBS-T) becomes to a compact network structure in the asphalt when the shear time is 5 minutes, and it takes 45 min for the modifier to achieve the same result to the wet method. And the macro performance indicators of penetration, softening point, ductility, and viscosity show that the modification effect of asphalt is better by dry modifier is 5 minutes after shearing than the modification effect of asphalt by wet modifier is 45 minutes.
Finite Element Simulation of Micro-Thermoelectric Generators Based on Microporous Glass Template
Authors: Li Fu , Li Bo , Su Ning
Published: September 2020

COMSOL Multiphysics software-based three-dimensional finite element analysis is widely used in the performance simulation of thermoelectric devices. In this study, this software is used to simulate the heat transfer processes and power generation performance of micro-thermoelectric generators based on a microporous glass template. The temperature and electrical potential fields are coupled to each other through the thermoelectric effects during the calculations. The power generation performances of micro-thermoelectric generators with different template heights (d) for various temperature differences between their hot and cold ends (∆Th-c) are calculated. For the micro-thermoelectric generator that included four pairs of TE couples, the temperature difference between the two sides of the TE columns (∆TTE) and the open circuit voltage (Uoc) both increased with increasing d, but the growth rate gradually decreased. When d is greater than 0.2 mm, the increment basically becomes negligible. The maximum output power (Pmax) first increases and then decreases with increasing d, reaching a maximum value when d is 0.2 mm. Therefore, we can optimize the size of device according to the simulation results to ensure that the device produces the optimal output performance during the experiments. A model with the same parameters used in the experiment (i.e., d=0.2 mm) was then established and it generated a Uoc of 35.2 mV and a Pmax of 228.8 μW when ∆Th-c was 107.5 K (∆TTE = 97.55 K). The errors between the simulation and the experimental results are small and thus also verify the accuracy of the power generation performance test results.
Mathematical Modeling of the Magnetic Field Effect on Molten Iron Crystallization
Authors: Arkulis Nataliy , Arkulis Mikhail , Logunova Oxana , Savchenko Yuri , Dolgushin Denis
Published: September 2020

The aim of the study is to construct a mathematical model to describe the effect of a magnetic field on the melt crystallization, in particular cast iron. The authors’ research is based on the hypothesis of the certain energy function existence in the short-range order region, which describes the equilibrium state of the "fluid - short-range order" thermodynamic system. Using the hypothesis, we simulated the effect of a magnetic field on the melt crystallization process, which is based on the fundamental laws of statistical physics and thermodynamics and includes four components: a model of the stationary state of the short-range order region, a model for determining the energy function of the short-range order region, a model of the effect of a proportional magnetic field, a model the effects of a commensurate magnetic field on the crystallization of molten iron. Being based on the simulation results, test calculations were performed, the results of which are confirmed by previously known studies. The simulation results showed that the influence of a magnetic field on the crystallization of melts is insignificant in comparison with thermal motion. The authors of the work believe that the magnetic field acts on the region of short-range order at the formation time at a fluctuation temperature that is much lower than the equilibrium one.
Calculation of Stretch Stress of Double-Layer Plate Composites
Authors: Li Yan Ru , Chen Wan Shan , Wang Zhen Hai , Jiang Hai Bo
Published: September 2020

The stretch stress of each layer of laminate composite undergoes complex changes after being stretched, which significantly affects the stretch strength. In order to determine the magnitude of the change, the paper directly solved the stretch stress using the analytical method through simple assumptions, and obtained the analytical calculation formula. Studies on double-layer plates show that the magnitude of stretch stress is closely related to the elastic modulus, length and thickness dimensions of the plate layer, the shear modulus of the adhesive, the thickness of the adhesive layer, and the external stress, and the maximum stress occurs at the middle section. The calculation of the formula provides a convenient way to check the stretch strength.
Effects of External and Internal Porous Structure Design on Mechanical Properties of Porous Scaffold: A Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Zhang Jin Yang , Zhang Xiao , Feng Wei , Chen Xian Shuai
Published: September 2020

In this paper, bionic designs and 3D modeling of external and internal porous scaffold with different pore sizes and porosities were precisely fabricated using CAD software. The mechanical performance and stress distribution pattern of two porous scaffolds were studied using finite element analysis. The results indicated that the static mechanical performance of external porous scaffold deteriorated with increasing pore size, and large peak stress and total deformation were observed. However, the calculated peak stress of internal porous scaffold was reduced by almost 58.3% to 69.4%, and the elastic modulus remains almost unchanged. The mechanical properties of porous scaffold can be optimized and greatly improved by adding a solid layer with a suitable thickness. The novel optimized design of porous scaffold is conducive to bone tissue repair and reconstruction.
Modeling the Process of Obtaining Bars from Aluminum Alloy 01417 by Combined Rolling-Extruding Method with Application of the Deform-3D Complex
Authors: Sidelnikov Sergey , Sokolov Ruslan , Voroshilov Denis , Motkov Mikhail , Bespalov Vadim , Voroshilova Marina , Sokolova Svetlana , Rudnitskiy Edvard , Lebedeva Olga , Borisyuk Vera
Published: September 2020

The results of computer simulation of the process of combined rolling-extruding of longish deformed semi-finished products from alloy 01417 are presented. A feature of the research is that continuously cast bars with a diameter of 12.5 mm obtained using an electromagnetic mold are used as a workpiece. This makes it possible to increase the manufacturability of processing and to obtain after rolling-extruding billets for drawing with a diameter of 5 mm with a large resource of plastic and strength properties. For this case the technological parameters and temperature and speed conditions of combined processing have not yet been studied, therefore, their analysis was performed using the Deform-3D software package. It has been revealed that the feasibility of the rolling-extruding process is significantly affected by the frequency of rotation of the rolls. Moreover, the process becomes unstable when the value of this parameter is 4 rpm, which can be explained by insufficient degrees of deformation during rolling, and consequently by the small value of the active friction forces acting on the contact surface of the metal with the rolls. As a result of this, the processing temperature conditions also change, which is also demonstrated using the developed computer model. As a result, it was found that for the stable course of the combined rolling-extruding process at the CRE-200 unit of a continuously cast billet with a diameter of 12.5 mm from alloy 01417 at a heating temperature of the billet of 550 °C and a tool of 200 °C, degree of deformation during rolling 44% and drawing ratio during extruding 18.6 the frequency of rotation of the rolls should be at least 8 rpm. The simulation data used during the implementation of the process at the combined processing unit CRE-200, the results of which made it possible to finally obtain electrotechnical wire with a diameter of 0.5 mm from 01417 alloy that meets the requirements of TS 1-809-63-2018.
Expansion of SARS-CoV-2–Specific Antibody-Secreting Cells and Generation of Neutralizing Antibodies in Hospitalized COVID-19 Patients
Authors: Varnaitė Renata , García Marina , Glans Hedvig , Maleki Kimia T. , Sandberg John Tyler , Tynell Janne , Christ Wanda , Lagerqvist Nina , Asgeirsson Hilmir , Ljunggren Hans-Gustaf , Ahlén Gustaf , Frelin Lars , Sällberg Matti , Blom Kim , Klingström Jonas , Gredmark-Russ Sara
Published: September 2020

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), emerged in late 2019 and has since become a global pandemic. Pathogen-specific Abs are typically a major predictor of protective immunity, yet human B cell and Ab responses during COVID-19 are not fully understood. In this study, we analyzed Ab-secreting cell and Ab responses in 20 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. The patients exhibited typical symptoms of COVID-19 and presented with reduced lymphocyte numbers and increased T cell and B cell activation. Importantly, we detected an expansion of SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid protein–specific Ab-secreting cells in all 20 COVID-19 patients using a multicolor FluoroSpot Assay. Out of the 20 patients, 16 had developed SARS-CoV-2–neutralizing Abs by the time of inclusion in the study. SARS-CoV-2–specific IgA, IgG, and IgM Ab levels positively correlated with SARS-CoV-2–neutralizing Ab titers, suggesting that SARS-CoV-2–specific Ab levels may reflect the titers of neutralizing Abs in COVID-19 patients during the acute phase of infection. Last, we showed that IL-6 and C-reactive protein serum concentrations were higher in patients who were hospitalized for longer, supporting the recent observations that IL-6 and C-reactive protein could be used as markers for COVID-19 severity. Altogether, this study constitutes a detailed description of clinical and immunological parameters in 20 COVID-19 patients, with a focus on B cell and Ab responses, and describes tools to study immune responses to SARS-CoV-2 infection and vaccination.
An anterior dislocation after Mobi-C cervical disc arthroplasty
Authors: Pelletier Yann , Gille Olivier , Vital Jean-Marc
Published: September 2020

The objective is to report a case of an early dislocation of Mobi-C prosthesis used for the replacement of C4–C5 disc. A 57-year-old man who was operated 17 years before for C6–C7 fusion complained of cervicalgia associated with bilateral but predominantly right-sided brachialgia. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated central and foraminal stenosis in the C5–C6 segment and soft medial disc herniation in the C4–C5 segment. The patient was indicated for the placement of a cervical disc prosthesis C4–C5 and a C5–C6 arthrodesis. After 1 month of clinical improvement, the patient saw his pain reappearing as well as the presence of dysphagia not objectified before. The patient did not describe a traumatic context. The radiographic assessment showed an anterior dislocation of the prosthesis. The patient was reoperated, the prosthesis was removed, and cervical arthrodesis with iliac graft was performed. Although rare, this complication must be well known by surgeons performing cervical arthroplasty.
Magnetic resonance imaging findings of idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus and cognitive function before and after ventriculoatrial shunt
Authors: Watahiki Ryota , Onouchi Kenji , Machida Toru , Natsume Kiyohisa , Takagi Kiyoshi
Published: September 2020

Background: The idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is characterized by the triad of gait impairment, incontinence, and dementia. Cases that do not comply with the diagnostic criteria of ventriculomegaly have increased. It has led to the questions about the current criteria of guidelines. As the number of patients with dementia increases with aging, iNPH is importantly placed as a treatable dementia. The purpose of this study was to verify the validity of radiological diagnostic criteria of ventriculomegaly in iNPH. Materials and Methods: A board-certified neuroradiologist retrospectively examined 80 patients with definite iNPH about magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings of Evans index (EI) and disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid space hydrocephalus (DESH). The score of mini-mental state examination (MMSE) was measured to represent the cognitive function. The presurgical score of MMSE (pre-MMSE) and postsurgical best score of MMSE (best-MMSE) were compared statistically between patients dichotomized by either EI >0.3 or DESH. Results: The pre-MMSE was not different regardless of dichotomization by EI >0.3 or DESH. The MMSE score (median) increased significantly (P < 0.0001) by shunt from 20.0 to 26.0 in patients with EI >0.3 and from 21.5 to 25.5 with EI ≤0.3. No difference in the best-MMSE was observed between EI >0.3 and EI ≤0.3. The MMSE score increased significantly (P < 0.0001) by shunt from 21 to 27.5 with DESH and from 20 to 24.5 with non-DESH. Regardless of fulfilling or notfulfilling Japanese radiological diagnostic criteria (combination of EI >0.3 and DESH), cognitive function was significantly (P < 0.0001) improved to the same level. Only 24 cases (30%) fulfilled Japanese radiological diagnostic criteria. Conclusion: Cognitive function of iNPH patients was significantly improved by shunt regardless of MRI-findings. Radiological diagnostic criteria of iNPH may need careful reconsideration.
Institutional experience of microsurgical management in posterior circulation aneurysm
Authors: Sharma Raghavendra , Kumar Ambuj , Yamada Yasuhiro , Tanaka Riki , Sharma Saurabh , Miyatani Kyosuke , Higashiguchi Saeko , Kawase Tsukasa , Talluri Srikanth , Kato Yoko
Published: September 2020

Introduction: Posterior circulation aneurysm constitutes 15%–20% of all intracerebral aneurysms. With the advancement of endovascular techniques, the microsurgery for posterior circulation aneurysms has been pushed back a little. Even the International Subarachnoid Aneurysmal Trial gave support to the concepts of endovascular procedures, but microsurgical modality should not be discouraged. We present our institutional experience of microsurgical techniques on posterior circulation aneurysms. Materials and Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of 37 patients of posterior circulation aneurysm from 2015 to 2019, referred to Bantane Hospital, Japan. We included all posterior circulation aneurysms such as basilar tip, basilar trunk, and vertebral artery-posterior inferior cerebellar artery (VA-PICA) aneurysms, admitted and treated with clipping or bypass and trapping. We assessed the outcome as measured by modified Rankin Score (mRS), complications, and mortality. Results: Out of 37 patients, 10 cases were a basilar tip, one case was the basilar trunk, and 26 cases were VA-PICA aneurysm. Intraoperatively, neuromonitoring, indocyanine green dye, dual-image videoangiography (DIVA), and neuro endoscope were used. Two patients of basilar tip aneurysm developed third cranial nerve paresis and six patients of VA-PICA aneurysm developed lower cranial nerve paresis which resolved spontaneously. All the patients were discharged with mRS of 0 or 1. No mortality was recorded in our study. Conclusion: Microsurgical clipping of posterior circulation aneurysm is safe in unruptured aneurysm with a very low risk of mortality and morbidity under experienced hands. All postoperative complications in our study were transient and resolved with time with no residual deficits. Preoperative simulation, intraoperative neuromonitoring, DIVA, and neuro endoscope help achieve complete obliteration of aneurysmal sac and avoid complications.
Phosphomolybdenum Blue Detection – A Review of Characteristics, Achievements, Challenges and Future Prospects
Authors: Doku G. N. , Agbozo W. K. , Haswell S. J. , McCreedy T.
Published: September 2020

Phosphate detection in the environment (especially, water bodies) is very essential in view of its consequent pollution effects on eutrophication. Continuous monitoring of phosphate concentration (and phosphorus compounds in general) in water samples has been based on phosphomolybdenum blue formation coupled with spectrophotometric detection. Continu­ous flow injection analyses (FIA) are well known to present numerous advantages over batch methods. Furthermore, the development of on-chip micro-channel analytical (μFIA) systems begun and have gained much attention within the last two decades in view of the striking advantages over conventional FIA techniques. This paper reviews published information on detection of phosphomolybdenum blue in conventional systems as well as on micro-chip. It reports on the challenges encountered (interference from other complex anions), the achieve­ments made so far (intereference removal by electrokinetic separation) and what the future holds (simultaneous determination).
An Experimental Assessment of LiFi Data Communication
Authors: Gordon V. , Danquah P.
Published: September 2020

In this paper, two functional light fidelity real-time testbeds implemented on custom Light fidelity (LiFi) kits are presented. This paper evaluates the use of LiFi technology over differ­ent distances and angular placement of illuminating devices and endpoint transceivers with connectivity locally and to the internet. The objective is to determine if distance or angular positioning in LiFi influence speeds or not. Finally, it aims to contribute to knowledge in the LiFi communication domain. We were limited to developing a customized testbed for wireless optical communication by accessing data in the physical layer via photons. In a lateral dis­tance and angular position, we examined the performance of a laptop with LiFi activated by a 3730 lm LED. The setup evaluated the performance of our design in a downlink and uplink scenario where the transmitter was embedded in the main LED unit and the laptop was used as a photoreceiver. The data rate/kbps, the lateral distance / m, and the angle displacement / θ° were the comparison metrics. The results of the tests show that the transmission of LiFi is not influenced by distance and angular positioning for both downloads and uploads over different distances.
The Ghana Highway Code as a Teaching and Learning Material
Authors: Nsiah-Achampong N. K. , Yankson I. K. , Agyemang W. K. , Mingle N. A.
Published: September 2020

The Ghana Highway Code is the official state-recognised traffic teaching and learning ma­terial widely used in traffic schools and by motorists in Ghana. Ghana changed its traffic from left-hand to right-hand drive in 1974; the Code was subsequently published to, besides other reasons, guide road users to be reconditioned to a fresh standard of behaviour. However, 46 years after its publication, the content of the Code has been outgrown by new developments in the road environment and traffic systems, rendering the Code ineffective. Content analysis was used to ascertain the validity and reliability of the Code. Out of 95 mo­torists interviewed, 91.5% indicated they use or had ever used the Code, while 3.2% had not used it before and 5.3% did not know about it at all. Hundred percent of driving schools used the Code as teaching and learning material. It was concluded that the Code was an obsolete teaching and learning material. The implication was that, the wide user population of the Code had an adverse impact on learners. It was recommended that the Code be revised and republished as new edition.
Students’ Attitudes to the Online University Course of Management in the Context of COVID-19
Authors: Angelova Miglena
Published: September 2020

The present paper tracks the attitudes of the Bulgarian students towards online education provided by the universities during the quarantine period due to the pandemic situation caused by COVID-19. The study presents data and analysis of results from an empirical survey conducted in April 2020 among students in different stages of their tertiary education in Bachelor Degree. Our findings show that students define online lectures with the same quality as traditional lectures in auditoriums. In terms of intensity there is no clear expressed opinion of responders with slight predominance of people who claim that the intensity of online learning is less than the traditional lecture. Major part of responded students claims that they manage to focus better in online lecture. Students are convinced that in online environment they work easier in individual tasks, but not in team works.
Investigation of Views of Students and Teachers on Distance Education Practices during the Coronavirus (COVID-19) Pandemic
Authors: Hebebci Mustafa Tevfik , Bertiz Yasemin , Alan Selahattin
Published: September 2020

The aim of this study is to reveal the opinions of teachers and students about the distance education applications carried out in the COVID-19 pandemic, which was identified in Wuhan, China in December 2019 and has spread around the globe in no time. The population of the research consists of 16 teachers and 20 students. The data were analyzed by content analysis technique and divided into themes, sub-themes and codes. It was concluded that students and teachers have positive and negative opinions about distance education activities. The fact that education can be carried out in a planned and scheduled manner even under extraordinary conditions is frequently expressed in positive opinions. Issues such as restricted interaction, infrastructure problems and lack of equipment are among the remarkable negative opinions regarding distance education activities. In addition, opinions have been put forward that distance education will be used more effectively in the future along with necessary improvement and in-service training.
Revisão da distribuição de Suiriri suiriri burmeisteri (Aves: Tyrannidae) no estado de São Paulo, Brasil, com novos registros em seu limite de distribuição sudeste
Authors: Macarrão Arthur , De Godoy Fernando Igor
Published: September 2020

O suiriri-cinzento (Suiriri suiriri) apresenta ampla distribuição na América do Sul, estando a subespécie S. s. burmeisteri restrita a fitofisionomias semiabertas dos biomas Cerrado, Caatinga e Pantanal, cuja extensão predomina em território brasileiro. No estado de São Paulo, a escassez de registros e de informações sobre a espécie a levou a ser considerada criticamente ameaçada anteriormente. Aqui, apresentamos novos registros, alguns mais a sudeste do que aqueles conhecidos para o estado, os quais conferem uma pequena expansão de distribuição local. Além disso, revisamos a distribuição da espécie no estado de São Paulo.
Novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV): A Pandemic Situation in Nepal
Authors: Rana Bhat Deepmala
Published: September 2020

A novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV) has spread out rapidly from Wuhan, Hubei Province, China and has been spreading to other provinces and countries. The COVID-19 infection spreads fundamentally through droplets of saliva or release from the nose when a contaminated individual coughs or sniffles and the common symptoms shown are fever, cough, fatigue and pneumonia. The total coronavirus cases are 5,792,314 and 357,471 deaths have been reported worldwide and the total cases in Nepal has reached to 886 with total recovered cases of 183 and 4 deaths in total as of May 28, 2020. In Nepal, different parts are in lockdown where individuals remain at home aside from emergency situations. Along with that international flights have been cancelled till 14th June 2020.
Letter from the Editors: Special Issue on Gender in International Business
Authors: Mezias John , Newburry William , Budde-Song Amanda
Published: September 2020

Women in the Academy of International Business (WAIB) (https://waib.aib.world/) has long championed gender equality and AIB Insights worked with WAIB, in particular Guest Co-Editor and WAIB President Amanda Budde-Sung, to produce this special issue. We hope these articles help uncover best practices that may help reduce longstanding gender disparities.
Grammatical Gender Marking: The Gender Roles Mirror
Authors: Shoham Amir
Published: September 2020

This paper highlights the advantages of grammatical gender marking in capturing gender roles in society. Grammatical gender marking is a relatively new method that improves upon the previous methodology of survey-based cultural dimensions, which are susceptible to severe endogeneity problems caused by current socio-economic conditions. Conversely, linguistic structures regarding gender are stable features of a language’s grammar, making them exogenous to current socio-economic forces. Academics can use grammatical gender marking as a quantitative dimension for use in empirical research; practitioners can use it to identify the gender roles affecting foreigner counterparts and host societies.
Foreign Direct Investment in Global Cities and Co-Ethnic Clusters: Characteristics, Profitability, and Survival
Authors: Chakravarty Dwarka
Published: September 2020

While global cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Toronto provide multinational enterprises (MNEs) with a range of economic, infrastructure, and ecosystem advantages, they also present significant cost and competitive challenges. I compare the characteristics, profitability, and survival of foreign subsidiaries between global cities, their metro areas, and other locations. I also consider the effect of co-ethnic and co-industry clusters. My sample comprises 2,863 subsidiaries of 1,605 Japanese MNEs in North America over the time period 1990-2013 and I apply a multilevel longitudinal analysis model. I discuss managerial implications for location choice to improve odds of profitability and survival.
Special Issue Introduction and Commentary on Trade and Economic Diplomacy
Authors: Doh Jonathan , Mezias John
Published: September 2020

Support for global economic integration and engagement may be at its lowest level in the modern era. The United States is retreating from its long-held position as the leading advocate of trade and economic interdependence. In this introduction to the his Special Issue on Trade and Economic Diplomacy, we provide an overview of these trends and offer a summary and synthesis of the contributions to the special issue. Together, this introduction and the special issue articles provide a compelling case that anti-globalization, nationalism, and isolationism are changing the nature of global trade, supply chains, and ultimately international economic diplomacy.
Multilatinas and International Business Studies
Authors: Cuervo-Cazurra Alvaro
Published: September 2020

I study Multilatinas, Latin American multinationals, and explain how their analysis helps provide new insights on internationalization. I propose that the historical commonalities among Latin American countries help control for influences that facilitate the analysis of the impact of the home country on internationalization in a way that is not possible when studying firms in other regions. I illustrate this idea explaining how internationalization is affected by geographic distance markets, by political influences on state-owned firms, by the size of the home market, and by the new middle classes in emerging economies.
Institutional Voids, Investment Purposes, and Foreign Subsidiaries of Multinational Enterprises
Authors: Getachew Yamlaksira S.
Published: September 2020

This dissertation examines institutional voids, investment purposes/motives of multinational enterprises (MNEs), and the divestment of foreign subsidiaries. By drawing on insights from multiple theories—including the new institutional economics and industrial organization theory—and integrating data from multiple sources, the dissertation contributes to a better understanding of institutional voids and their economic (transaction-cost) and strategic (market-power) implications. It also advances useful theoretical and empirical insights regarding MNE investment purposes/motives and their interaction with host-country institutional voids to influence foreign subsidiary exit. This dissertation builds a foundation for a broader research agenda that can generate a number of promising research directions.
Letter from the Editors: Special Issue on Africa
Authors: Rottig Daniel , Mezias John
Published: September 2020

This editorial article introduces the special issue of AIB Insights focused on Africa. The issue includes “Should We Be Concerned about IB Research?” by Mark Casson; “(How) Does Africa Matter for International Business Scholarship?” by Nathaniel Boso, Yaw A. Debrah, and Joseph Amankwah-Amoah; “The Rise of African Multinationals: Are IB Scholars Paying Sufficient Attention?” by Kevin Ibeh, Ifedapo Adeleye, and Olawale Ajai; “Navigating Institutional Differences in Africa: Moving Beyond the Institutional Voids Perspective” by Goriola Olusina Daniel, Theresa Onaji-Benson, and Charles Mbalyohere; and “Africa–China Cooperation: Potential Shared Interests and Strategic Partnerships?” by Abdoulkadre Ado and Ellis L.C. Osabutey.
Essays on Nonmarket Strategy
Authors: Kim Jin Hyung
Published: September 2020

A growing body of strategy and management literature emphasizes the importance of nonmarket strategy, not only as a stand-alone strategy but also as part of an integrated strategy in dealing with frequent regulatory change and political and regulatory actors and agencies. Nevertheless, many areas in non-market strategy remain unexplored. In particular, scant research has examined the nonmarket behaviors of foreign multinational enterprises (MNEs) in a foreign host country. Thus, here, I examine various aspects of non-market strategies of foreign MNEs in the U.S. using U.S. federal lobbying and other related datasets.
The Rise of African Multinationals: Are IB Scholars Paying Sufficient Attention?
Authors: Ibeh Kevin , Adeleye Ifedapo , Ajai Olawale
Published: September 2020

This article discusses the rising prevalence of African multinationals in intra-regional, but also extra-regional, markets. It acknowledges the significant firm-specific and institutional challenges facing these MNEs, and welcomes their modest and improving international competitiveness. Continuing evolution, the authors argue, lies in concerted development of higher order capabilities by African MNEs as well as effective coalition building to redress institutional challenges. Given these firms’ potential to transform their lagging home region and impact IB theory, the article calls on the IB community to do better job of channelling research attention to African MNEs.
GLOBE Leadership Dimensions: Implications for Cross-Country Entrepreneurship Research
Authors: Pathak Saurav , Muralidharan Etayankara
Published: September 2020

We highlight the potential theoretical and empirical contributions that GLOBE dimensions of culturally endorsed leadership theories (CLTs) can make to advance entrepreneurship research. Theoretically, they occupy a unique position in the culture-entrepreneurship fit perspective in that they mediate the influence of cultural values on entrepreneurial behaviors. Empirically, they could be used in a number of ways in entrepreneurship research – either in OLS regressions that estimate the influence of CLTs on country-level aggregate rates of entrepreneurship or in multi-level analyses that aim to predict the influence of country-level CLTs on individual-level entrepreneurial behaviors (direct effects as well as cross-level moderation effects).
Tackling Modern Slavery, the Ugliest Phenomenon of Our Times: An Invitation to the IB Scholarly Community
Authors: Michailova Snejina , Stringer Christina
Published: September 2020

Modern slavery is a profitable international business with an estimated US$150 billion profit annually. Yet to-date IB research has been silent on the topic of modern slavery. Two particular ideas from old institutionalism – first, the inherent complexity of institutions, MNCs and their supply chains, and second, institutional deflection and operating on the margins of institutions – provide a lens to examine why modern slavery exists and why it thrives as a business. In this article, we issue an invitation to IB scholars to undertake research into modern slavery – research that is much needed to address this crime.
Letter from the Editors: Special Issue on Continuing the Quest for the Raison d’être of Our Field of IB and Ourselves as IB Scholars
Authors: Rottig Daniel , Mezias John
Published: September 2020

This editorial article introduces the special issue of AIB Insights focusing on Continuing the Quest for the Raison d’être of Our Field of IB and Ourselves as IB Scholars. The issue includes “Are You a “Truly International” Scholar?” by Andrew Delios; “The Role of AIB and IB in a De-Globalizing World” by Martin Kaspar; “Race-to-the-Top Strategy Paradigm” by Alejandro Ruelas-Gossi; “Language Structure and Its Effects on Innovation” by Alexander Berman, Ram Mudambi, and Amir Shoham; and “Turbulence in the Currency Markets— What Does It Mean for International Business?” by Robert N. Mefford.
Turbulence in the Currency Markets-What Does It Mean for International Business?
Authors: Mefford Robert N.
Published: September 2020

This article reflects on the recent increase in volatility in the foreign exchange market and discusses its implications for managers of multinational corporations. More specifically, it explores how currency volatility affects many aspects of international business including strategy, investment and finance, operations and sourcing, marketing, and risk management as well as strategies to mitigate, or even benefit from it. The article further discusses strategies managers of MNCs can employ to hedge currency volatility in the short and long run, and looks ahead at possible currency volatility trends.
Letter from the Editors: Special Issue on the 2017 Peter J. Buckley and Mark Casson AIB Dissertation Award
Authors: Rottig Daniel , Mezias John
Published: September 2020

This editorial article introduces the AIB Insights special dedicated to the 2017 Peter J. Buckley and Mark Casson AIB Dissertation Award. The issue includes “Three Essays on Corruption, Government Transparency and Foreign Direct Investment” by Neli Kouneva Loewenthal; “Three Essays on the Influence of Political Connections on Firm International Expansion Strategy” by João Albino-Pimentel; “Responses to Subpar Performance in Foreign Subsidiaries” by Vanessa C. Hasse; “Managing Complex Multinational Enterprises: Internal Network Structure and Expatriation Strategies” by Jong Min Lee; and “A Text Analytic Approach to Study Host Country Nationalist Sentiments and MNE Responses during National Conflicts” by Xiaocong Tian.
Plus Ça Change, Plus C’est La Même Chose? Or, That Was Then, This Is Now!
Authors: Von Glinow Mary Ann
Published: September 2020

The world is changing, thus, opening the opportunity for IB researchers to conduct vibrant and relevant research. But, are the changes taking us out of our ivory towers into the “abyss” or are we dangling on the edge of it? This paper appeals to researchers in IB to be attentive to the problems of today’s world (e.g. the poisoning of free trade, bans on immigration, a new rise in racism, and few laws protecting LGBT members) and how these problems create a fading “global community.” To focus on contemporary issues, changing journal article submissions and conducting a forum are proposed.
The Emic-Etic-Emic Research Cycle
Authors: Punnett Betty Jane , Ford David , Galperin Bella L. , Lituchy Terri
Published: September 2020

This article discusses the role of both emic (developing culture specific concepts) and etic (applying concepts across cultures) research in the international management literature. We propose a more comprehensive research cycle that can provide researchers with a deeper understanding of the context in under-researched countries. Specifically, we propose that the combination of emic and etic research approaches, in an emic-etic-emic cycle, is the best way to disaggregate contextual issues in organizational research, particularly when dealing with human issues in management. Such a cycle, we argue, provides a deeper understanding of the context in under-researched countries.
The Team Process: Insights from the LEAD Experience
Authors: Bagire Vincent , Punnett Betty Jane
Published: September 2020

The LEAD– Leadership Effectiveness in Africa and the Diaspora, begun 2007. It is a team of committed researchers with diversity in membership, aspiration, scholarship and background. The researchers are from Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Egypt, Ethiopia, Tanzania, Uganda and Kenya; Africa Diaspora: Trinidad, US, Canada, West Indies and Barbados. The team has achievements in research and publications; virtual interaction and infrequent physical meetings. This paper examines the factors behind these achievements namely task drive, focus, composition, individual motivation and above all leadership. The paper highlights the beginnings of LEAD team, growth, leadership, academic works, challenges and future directions.
Views on Effective Leadership from Insiders and Outsiders
Authors: Lituchy Terri R. , Metwally Elham Kamal , Henderson Courtney Aleise
Published: September 2020

This study highlights the significance of gender differences in perceptions of leadership. More specifically, we examine gender differences in perceptions of effective leadership styles in the context of African countries participating in the Leadership Effectiveness in Africa and the African Diaspora (LEAD) research project, allowing us to evaluate the effect of cultural contexts in African countries. This study suggests that perceptions of effective leadership in a given cultural context are not necessarily replicated in another cultural context and that managers should be wary of such differences. The implications of this are considered in the study.
Letter from the Editors: Special Issue on Global Strategy and Emerging Markets
Authors: Rottig Daniel , Mezias John
Published: September 2020

This editorial article introduces the special issue of AIB Insights focusing on Global Strategy and Emerging Markets. The issue includes “Global Strategy and Emerging Markets” by Alvaro Cuervo-Cazurra, Joseph Ganitsky, Yadong Luo, and John Mezias; “Emerging Economies: Differences and Distances” by Pankaj Ghemawat and Steven A. Altman; “Creating Shared Value by Combatting Corruption” by Philip M. Nichols; “Technological Catch-up and Knowledge Sourcing of Latecomers from Emerging Economies” by Jaeyong Song; and “What You, Readers of AIB Insights, Said: Responses to the Article “Is Your ‘IB’ Research Truly ‘International’?”” by Jean Boddewyn.
Emerging Economies: Differences and Distances
Authors: Ghemawat Pankaj , Altman Steven A.
Published: September 2020

Salient differences between advanced and emerging economies for multinational firms extend well beyond obvious ones such as lower income levels and faster growth. We examine the classification of economies based on levels of development and apply the CAGE (cultural, administrative/institutional, geographic, economic) distance framework to analyze differences and distances between advanced and emerging economies. This analysis covers both internal (unilateral) characteristics of countries and differences/distances that can only be measured bilaterally (across country pairs). A gravity model is employed to consider implications for firms from advanced versus emerging economies.