bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Decoding the gamer’s code: a dive into game merchandise consumption through the lens of consumer culture theory
Authors: Chang Tsung-Sheng , Liu Wei-Chieh
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Digital games have not only surged in popularity but also have sparked a renaissance, catapulting virtual adventures into the realm of cultural phenomena. It has spilled over as countless individuals find themselves drawn to the tangible pieces of the worlds they love, mulling over the procurement of game merchandise and memorabilia. These items are more than mere collectibles; they are emblems of unwavering enthusiasm for game culture. This study employs the consumer culture theory (CCT) to investigate game players’ propensity to purchase merchandise products.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, social media and online forums were used to collect samples from Taiwan, obtaining 311 valid responses. Partial least squares (PLS) was employed to analyze the research model.

Findings

The findings underscore the significance of loyalty as a critical factor affecting individuals’ ethnocentrism and cosmopolitanism attitudes, which also significantly impact the likelihood of players purchasing game merchandise products.

Originality/value

Based on CCT, this study explores game players’ willingness to purchase game merchandise. In Asia, transforming digital game content into peripheral products is a marketing strategy. This study holds practical and academic implications, contributing to the advancement of research in this field.
Cryptocurrency’s emergence in North Cyprus: a mixed-methods exploration of attitudes and usage trends of an emerging payment method
Authors: Isiaku Labaran , Muhammad Abubakar Sadiq , Oluwajana Dokun
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate offline retailers’ cryptocurrency adoption through the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT/2), technology acceptance model (TAM) and other related variables.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method (QUANT-Qual) was employed. The study employed a quantitative approach (partial least squares-structural equation modeling) for Study 1 and a qualitative focus group discussion for Study 2. The qualitative segment enhances the comprehension and interpretation of outcomes derived from the quantitative analysis.

Findings

Study 1 identified six crucial factors in cryptocurrency adoption: trust, personal innovation, hedonic motivation, social influence, safety and a positive attitude. Perceived ease of use, price value and satisfaction were non-significant. Study 2 elaborates on the findings, and highlights the reasons for the insignificant factors.

Research limitations/implications

This research contributes to theoretical knowledge by empirically testing established technology acceptance theories like UTAUT/2 and TAM in the context of retail cryptocurrency adoption. It introduces previously unexplored factors, such as personal innovativeness, hedonic motivation and safety/reliability, enriching the theoretical landscape.

Practical implications

This study provides practical insights for cryptocurrency stakeholders, including government, regulators, consumers, businesses and the financial sector, regarding retailers' intentions to adopt cryptocurrencies in North Cyprus.

Social implications

This study can enhance understanding of factors facilitating cryptocurrency integration into mainstream retail, potentially reshaping traditional finance. Economically, adoption can boost financial inclusion, offering efficient transaction methods. This transition may disrupt existing economic models, drive payment technology innovation and change consumer behavior toward digital assets.

Originality/value

This study stands out by using a mixed-method approach to comprehensively examine cryptocurrency adoption by offline retailers, considering various factors and providing a holistic perspective, unlike previous research that often focused on specific user groups.
Digital transformation in Portuguese banking: impact of the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Fonseca Alexandra , Rodrigues Luís Filipe , Alturas Bráulio
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Currently, digital transformation is a process that cuts across different sectors of activity, including banks. One of the examples is the availability of products and services on digital channels. This study aims to identify the changes implemented in the digital channels of banks in Portugal that were driven by the COVID-19 pandemic, contributing to the acceleration of digital transformation.

Design/methodology/approach

The methods involve a qualitative approach, from the analysis of a selection of 30 results and accounting reports from ten banks between 2019 and 2021 using the Leximancer software to identify the main themes and concepts.

Findings

Four themes and 40 most relevant concepts were identified from the results of the analysis. In conclusion, banks have reinforced digital channels regarding products and services with apparent concerns associated with security.

Research limitations/implications

This article aims to contribute to two conceptual maps that allow us to understand the measures implemented by banks in digital channels during the pandemic.

Practical implications

This investigation aims to enable managers to define other initiatives within the scope of digital channels and enhance those already implemented.

Originality/value

The scientific articles identified and published so far do not specifically address the impact that the COVID-19 pandemic has had on the digital channels of banks in Portugal. The originality of this article arises from this gap identified regarding the absence of similar scientific studies. The pandemic is a new phenomenon that occurred for the first time in 2019 and globally, so it is essential to know the impacts on Portuguese banks.
Critical success factors (CSFs) for the implementation of distributed ledger technology (DLT) in the Nigerian construction industry
Authors: Bello Abdulkabir Opeyemi , Okanlawon Taofeek Tunde , Gbenga Precious Oluwatofunmi , Abdulraheem Aliyyu Abiola , Olagoke Olujide Tunde
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to identify and analyse critical success factors (CSFs) for the successful implementation of distributed ledger technology (DLT) in the Nigerian construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a quantitative approach that uses snowball sampling techniques to identify professionals participating in the study. A structured questionnaire was used to collect data virtually, using Google Forms, resulting in 217 valid responses. The collected data were subjected to rigorous statistical analysis (descriptive and inferential) to identify and prioritise the CSFs and evaluate the participants’ awareness and knowledge of DLT.

Findings

This study revealed 24 key CSFs that are pivotal in ensuring the effective implementation and adoption of DLT in the Nigerian construction industry. Furthermore, the research highlights a moderate level of awareness, but significantly low knowledge of DLT among industry professionals.

Practical implications

The findings of this study will benefit professionals, practitioners and policymakers in the Nigerian construction industry by providing insights into the potential of DLT to improve construction operations.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by identifying the CSFs for implementing DLT in the construction industry and shedding light on the current level of awareness and knowledge within the Nigerian context. The findings offer valuable insights for policymakers, industry practitioners and researchers, providing a solid foundation for informed decision-making and developing effective strategies to enhance DLT adoption in the construction sector.
I apologize: body positivity love movements
Authors: Baines Janice , Dublin Sharon , Cherry Allesia , Norris Tamia , Christmas Taylor , Phillips Ijanah , Cromer Cameron
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper delves into the profound influence of societal beauty standards and the prevalence of body shaming in contemporary culture. It explores how these societal norms contribute to self-esteem issues and psychological distress among individuals, particularly young people.

Design/methodology/approach

Through the poignant medium of student letters and the power of prayer, it explores the personal experiences and narratives of young individuals who have faced these challenges.

Findings

Moreover, this study highlights the transformative role of education in reshaping these societal norms and fostering a culture of body positivity.

Originality/value

This study underscores the potential of student letters and the spiritual guidance of prayer as tools for self-reflection and healing, ultimately advocating for the pivotal role of education in promoting body positivity and challenging the constraints of unrealistic beauty standards and body shaming.
Click to contribute: understanding donation behaviour and well-being in donation-based crowdfunding mobile apps
Authors: Aw Eugene Cheng-Xi , Thomas Sujo , Patel Ritesh , Bhatt Viral , Cham Tat-Huei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The overarching goal of the study was to formulate an integrated research model to empirically demonstrate the complex interplay between heuristics, project characteristics, information system usage quality, empathy, and mindfulness in predicting users'/donors' donation behaviour and well-being in the context of donation-based crowdfunding (DBC) mobile apps.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 786 respondents and analysed using the multi-stage SEM-ANN-NCA (Structural equation modelling-artificial neural network-necessary condition analysis) method.

Findings

Increased perceived aesthetics, narrative structure, self-referencing, project popularity, project content quality, and initiator reputation would foster empathy. Empathy and mindfulness lead to donation behaviour, and, ultimately emotional well-being.

Originality/value

This study offers a clear framework by ranking the key contextual predictors and assessing the model’s necessity logic to facilitate crowdfunders' donation behaviour and well-being on DBC platforms. This research provides practical insights for bank marketers and further aids financial service providers in formulating an optimal DBC mobile app strategy.
Adapting and validating the EPLIT for assessing lean healthcare maturity in Brazilian hospitals
Authors: Sarantopoulos Alice , Spagnol Gabriela , Colombrini Maria Rosa , Minatogawa Leticia , Minatogawa Vinicius , Gasparino Renata Cristina , Min Li Li
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the measurement properties of the Employee Perception to Assess the Lean Implementation Tool (EPLIT) in the Brazilian hospital context.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was conducted in two Brazilian hospitals, adhering to COnsensus-based Standards for the selection of health Measurement Instruments (COSMIN) guidelines. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and Cronbach's alpha were used for construct validity and reliability.

Findings

The adapted tool comprises 27 items across five domains, explaining 63.3% of the variance. Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.78 to 0.86, indicating satisfactory reliability.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include convenience sampling and exclusive use of EFA for validation. Future studies may employ Confirmatory Factor Analysis for further validation.

Practical implications

The tool aids healthcare managers in Brazil to systematically evaluate Lean implementation, contributing to process optimization and quality improvement.

Social implications

Effective Lean implementation using the validated tool could lead to improved healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

Originality/value

This is the first study to adapt and validate EPLIT for the Brazilian healthcare sector, offering a robust tool for managers and researchers.
Unraveling the interplay between supply chain analytics and healthcare supply chain performance: establishing an underlying mechanism and a boundary condition
Authors: Tetteh Francis Kamewor , Amoako Dennis Kwatia , Kyeremeh Andrews , Atiki Gabriel , Degbe Francisca Delali , Nyame Prince Elton Dion
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic represents one of the most significant disruptions to supply chains (SCs), stimulating both practitioners and scholars to seek ways to enhance supply chain performance (SCP). Recent advancements in technology, particularly supply chain analytics (SCA) technologies, offer promising avenues for mitigating risks associated with SC disruptions like those posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, the existing literature lacks a comprehensive analysis of the connection between SCA and healthcare SC (HSC) performance. To address this research gap, we employed the dynamic capability perspective to investigate the mediating roles of supply chain innovation (SCI), resilience (SCR) and flexibility (SCF) in the relationship between SCA and HSC performance. The study further examined the moderating role of a data-driven culture (DDC).

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed model was tested using survey data from 374 managers of healthcare facilities in Ghana. SPSS and Amos were used to analyze the data gathered.

Findings

The results showed that while SCA may drive HSC performance, the presence of SCI, SCR and SCF may serve as channels to drive enhanced HSC performance. Additionally, we also found that different levels of a DDC induce varying effects of SCA on SCI, SCR and SCF.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s results have theoretical and practical implications, offering valuable insights for the advancement of SCA in healthcare literature. They also deepen SC managers’ comprehension of how and when SCA can boost HSC performance. However, as the study was limited to healthcare facilities in Ghana, its findings may not be universally applicable.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by demonstrating that SCI, SCR, SCF and a DDC could serve as transformative mechanisms to reap superior HSC outcomes. This study also offers contemporary guidance to managers regarding SCA investment decisions.
Toward the professionalization of sponsorship management in voluntary sports clubs: a comprehensive analysis of components and their specifications
Authors: Schulz Luc , Keller-Meier Romano , Lang Grazia , Nagel Siegfried , Stieger Raphael , Schlesinger Torsten
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Many voluntary sports clubs face financial difficulties and consequently turn to external funding sources. Recent developments suggest that sports clubs have been successful in significantly increasing sponsorship income by professionalizing their sponsorship activities. However, not much is known about how voluntary sports clubs professionalize their sponsorship management (e.g. sponsorship staff). This study seeks to gain a deeper understanding of the components addressed and the practices used by voluntary sports clubs to professionalize their sponsorship.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory case study was conducted to gain in-depth insights into voluntary sports clubs’ organizational developments in the context of sponsorship management. Data were collected from six sports clubs through document analyses and problem-centered interviews with decision makers. The data were analyzed using a qualitative content analysis approach, which included both deductive and complementary inductive coding of the data.

Findings

The results show that the components addressed in the professionalization of sponsorship management are reflected in three dimensions: “people and positions” (e.g. sponsorship staff), “structures and processes” (e.g. differentiation of responsibilities), and “strategies and activities” (e.g. sponsorship rights orientation). It was also found that clubs, which have diverse characteristics and levels of professionalization, pursue distinct approaches.

Originality/value

In contrast to studies on professional sports organizations that focus primarily on the sponsor’s perspective, this study sheds light on sponsorship management in sports clubs in the non-profit sector. The findings can help voluntary sports clubs to transform their sponsorship management strategically and increase sponsorship income in the long term.
Assessment of bus fleet service quality: a graph theoretical approach
Authors: James Ajith Tom
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for the assessment of service quality of bus fleet services based on the service quality influencing factors. The paper also tries to evolve a quantitative measure for fleet service quality in the form of a fleet service quality index.

Design/methodology/approach

A graph theoretical approach is employed in this paper for bus fleet service quality assessment. Modelling of fleet service quality factors and their interrelations with due attention towards their structure is achieved through graph theory. A directed graph (digraph) of the service quality is developed, where its nodes represent factors influencing the quality while its edges show the degree of interrelationships. A matrix, which is equivalent to the digraph, is established that will generate a service quality function that will result in the development of a fleet service quality index (FSQI).

Findings

Attaining customer satisfaction through assurance of quality is the cornerstone of the existence and survival of any business organization, and bus fleet services are no exception to this. Several influential factors are there for the bus fleet service quality. This research paper has identified factors such as fleet management practices, operational characteristics, safety and reliability features, travel comfort, bus maintenance and environmental concerns that affect fleet service quality. Every factor is composed of distinct sub-factors. Furthermore, these factors are linked with one another. A higher value of the fleet service quality index indicates the adequate performance of the bus fleet service organization.

Practical implications

The methodology is useful for not only evaluating but also for comparison of service quality of different fleet agencies or organizations. The perceptions would be useful to the fleet service managers to create procedures and arrangements for improving the service quality.

Originality/value

The paper identifies various service quality factors of the bus fleet and an evaluation scheme for those factors has been developed. Based on these, a framework had been developed for the assessment of the service quality of different fleet service providers.
Effect of Chinese consumer characteristics on the attitude of AI-curated fashion service and the purchase intention of fashion products
Authors: Shin Eunjung , Yang Heesoon
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to understand the acceptance of AI-curated fashion services among Chinese consumers by introducing consumer characteristics, such as fashion clothing involvement (FCI) and technological innovativeness (TI), as leading variables of the technology acceptance model (TAM). Furthermore, it aims to examine the impact of FCI and TI on attitudes towards AI-curated fashion services and the purchase intention of fashion products through perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEU), and perceived enjoyment (PE). Through this analysis, this study seeks to determine a marketing strategy that can support implementing AI-curated fashion services in the Chinese market.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used structural equation modeling to ascertain the results.

Findings

Regarding AI-curated fashion services' attributes, the analysis revealed that consumers' FCI did not significantly affect the PU and PE. However, FCI greatly impacted the PEU. In addition, consumers' interests in TI significantly affected PU and PE but did not significantly influence PEU, although PEU significantly affected PU. PU, PEU, and PE greatly impacted usage attitude. PU and usage attitude significantly affected purchase intention, whereas PE had no effect.

Originality/value

Through a practical survey of Chinese consumers, we investigated the impact of FCI and TI on the attitude and purchase intention of fashion products recommended by AI-curated fashion services.
A roadmap towards implementing health technology assessment in Oman
Authors: Al Rashdi Ibrahim , Al Balushi Sara , Al Shuaili Alia , Al Rashdi Said , Ibrahim Al Bulushi Nadiya , Ibrahim Al Kindi Asiya , Al Salmi Qasem , Al Sabti Hilal , Korra Nada , Abaza Sherif , Fasseeh Ahmad Nader , Kaló Zoltán
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Health technologies are advancing rapidly and becoming more expensive, posing a challenge for financing healthcare systems. Health technology assessment (HTA) improves the efficiency of resource allocation by facilitating evidence-informed decisions on the value of health technologies. Our study aims to create a customized HTA roadmap for Oman based on a gap analysis between the current and future status of HTA implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

We surveyed participants of an advanced HTA training program to assess the current state of HTA implementation in Oman and explore long-term goals. A list of draft recommendations was developed in areas with room for improvement. The list was then validated for its feasibility in a round table discussion with senior health policy experts to conclude on specific actions for HTA implementation.

Findings

Survey results aligned well with expert discussions. The round table discussion concluded with a phasic action plan for HTA implementation. In the short term (1–2 years), efforts will focus on building capacity through training programs. For medium-term actions (3–5 years), plans include expanding the HTA unit and introducing multiple cost-effectiveness thresholds while from 6–10 years, publishing of HTA recommendations, critical appraisal reports, and timelines is recommended.

Originality/value

Although the HTA system in Oman is still in its early stages, strong initiatives are being taken for its advancement. This structured approach ensures a comprehensive integration of HTA into the healthcare system, enhancing decision-making and promoting a sustainable, evidence-based system addressing the population’s needs.
Financial data modeling: an analysis of factors influencing big data analytics-driven financial decision quality
Authors: Al-Okaily Manaf , Al-Okaily Aws
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Financial firms are looking for better ways to harness the power of data analytics to improve their decision quality in the financial modeling era. This study aims to explore key factors influencing big data analytics-driven financial decision quality which has been given scant attention in the relevant literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors empirically examined the interrelations between five factors including technology capability, data capability, information quality, data-driven insights and financial decision quality drawing on quantitative data collected from Jordanian financial firms using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey.

Findings

The SmartPLS analysis outcomes revealed that both technology capability and data capability have a positive and direct influence on information quality and data-driven insights without any direct influence on financial decision quality. The findings also point to the importance and influence of information quality and data-driven insights on high-quality financial decisions.

Originality/value

The study for the first time enriches the knowledge and relevant literature by exploring the critical factors affecting big data-driven financial decision quality in the financial modeling context.
Potential exit strategies of entrepreneurs operating micro and small family businesses and non-family businesses in Poland
Authors: Koładkiewicz Izabela , Wojtyra-Perlejewska Marta
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study investigates whether a firm’s character as a mature micro and small family or non-family business may impact the managing owner’s choice of a potential exit strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical evidence was provided through a sample of 302 entrepreneurs (170 respond-ents from mature micro and small family businesses and 132 from non-family businesses) who participated in a survey on potential exit strategies.

Findings

The primary finding indicates that there is no significant difference in exit strategy preferences between family and non-family entrepreneurs from mature micro and small-sized firms. It was found that both groups of entrepreneurs mostly opt for internal succession.

Originality/value

This paper presents a novel perspective, demonstrating that while non-family firms are not typically anticipated to adopt the same exit strategies as family firms, they may still opt for internal succession. Furthermore, we provide an insight into potential exit strategy decisions made in smaller firms, which have been less frequently analyzed compared to larger firms in the field of entrepreneurial exit.
Choice architecture techniques: developing a comprehensive taxonomy to test applicability in business relationships
Authors: Münscher Robert
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper develops an evidence-based conceptual framework for exploring the applicability of choice architecture in business relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Empirical studies of choice architecture in various fields are systematically reviewed to identify choice architecture techniques; major resulting categories of techniques are then discussed for applicability to business relationship contexts, and avenues for research are outlined.

Findings

Managerial decision-making is potentially influenced by changes to choice contexts that (1 provide additional information from outside the choice context, (2) facilitate a particular way of comparing options, (3) present options in new ways, (4) rework the choice set, e.g. by adding options and (5) create internal states that push toward a target choice.

Originality/value

The paper introduces the concept of choice architecture to business relationships. It develops a taxonomy of choice architecture techniques to guide the exploration of choice architecture effects in business relationships.
Exploring the Nordic numbers: an analysis of price clustering in Scandinavian stocks
Authors: Lobão Júlio , Pacheco Luís , Carvalho Daniel
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper investigates share price clustering and its determinants across Nasdaq Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Iceland.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper investigates share price clustering and its determinants across Nasdaq Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Iceland. Univariate analysis confirms widespread clustering, notably favouring closing prices ending in zero. Multivariate analysis explores the impact of firm size, price level, volatility, and turnover on clustering.

Findings

Univariate analysis confirms widespread clustering, notably favouring closing prices ending in zero. Multivariate analysis explores the impact of firm size, price level, volatility, and turnover on clustering. Results reveal pervasive clustering, strengthening with higher prices and turnover but weakening with larger trade volumes, firm size, and smaller tick sizes. These empirical findings support the theoretical expectations of price negotiation and resolution hypotheses.

Practical implications

The observed clustering presents an opportunity for investors to potentially capitalize on this market anomaly and achieve supra-normal returns.

Originality/value

Price clustering, the phenomenon where certain price levels are traded more frequently, challenges the efficient market hypothesis and has been extensively studied in financial markets. However, the Scandinavian stock markets, particularly those in the Nasdaq Nordic Exchange, remain unexplored in this context.
Experimental analysis of failure behaviour of PA12 specimens manufactured by SLS as a function of wall thickness and build direction
Authors: Garcia Rodriguez Alejandro , Velasco Peña Marco Antonio , Narváez-Tovar Carlos A. , Espejo Mora Edgar
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate and explain the dual fracture behaviour of PA12 specimens sintered by selective laser sintering (SLS) as a function of wall thickness and build direction with a powder mixture 30:70. To achieve this objective, research related to chemical, thermal and structural behaviours as a function of the input variables was carried out to describe and explain why ductile-fragile behaviour occurs during fractures under uniaxial tension manufactured via a methodology of material analysis and manufacturing processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The factorial design 32 relates the fracture of PA12 tensile specimens to the horizontal, transverse and vertical build directions at 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 mm thicknesses, respectively. Fractographic images revealed the fracture surfaces and their dual ductile-fragile behaviour related to the specimens’ measured crystalline, thermal, surface and chemical properties.

Findings

The study showed that thermal property variables differ depending on the input variables. The wall thickness variable affected this morphology the most, showing the highest percentage of the ductile area, followed by the transverse and vertical directions. It was determined that the failure in the vertical direction is due to crystalline gradients associated with the layer-by-layer construction process. The pore density may be closely related to generating ductile and brittle areas.

Originality/value

In this paper, fracture characterisation is performed based on the mechanical, chemical, structural, thermal and morphological properties of PA12 manufactured by SLS. In addition, a heatmap of porosities in cross-sections is constructed using a machine learning model (k-means) related to dual fracture behaviour. This research revealed significant differences in the fracture type according to the build direction. In addition, thin-section fractography provides a more detailed explanation of the fragile behaviour of the vertical direction associated with crystalline changes due to the direction of the sintering layers.
Trends, shifts and future prospects of sustainable finance research: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ayaz Gohar , Zahid Muhammad
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study aims to highlight the key aspects of sustainable finance using bibliometric analysis of the relevant literature extracted from two separate databases, Scopus and Dimensions.ai. The present study contributes towards the achievement of sustainable development by providing directions to align financial decision-making with different sustainability aspects.

Design/methodology/approach

The author conducted bibliometric analysis for 1,220 articles from Scopus and 1,437 publications from Dimensions.ai. The most frequently occurring terms in sustainable finance research are explored and visualised using the VOSviewer.

Findings

Bibliometric findings revealed a dynamic evolution of research focus over time. The social component dominated from 2012 to 2016, however a shift to environmental and climate change considerations is noticed from 2016 to 2020. Recent studies (2020–2022) exhibited heightened attention to green finance and renewable energy. Overlay visualisations highlighted similar trends in both databases, indicating a contemporary emphasis on green finance.

Research limitations/implications

This study enriches theoretical discourse by mapping the trajectory of sustainable finance research, contributing to a deeper understanding of its evolution.

Practical implications

Insights from this study guide researchers and practitioners in identifying trends, that can help the integration of green finance principles into corporate strategies.

Social implications

Findings also raise awareness among stakeholders, and help facilitate socially responsible corporate cultures and informed policymaking.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its comprehensive bibliometric analysis of sustainable finance research in management studies, drawing data from two major databases and spanning over three decades.
Where we are: reflecting on our use of critical mapping practices for spatial justice in teacher education
Authors: Monreal Timothy , Deroo Matthew R. , Pitts Brianne
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this article is for three teacher educators to reflect on their use of mapping and mapping-adjacent activities in university courses vis-à-vis the development of their own critical praxis toward spatial justice. The authors focus on how the centering of geospatial literacies through spatial justice issues impacts the development of criticality for preservice teachers and their teacher educators.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper opted for collaborative reflections about our teacher educator praxis through self-study and critical friends. Three teacher educators wrote vignettes about their experiences with place-based mapping approaches in teacher education coursework.

Findings

The paper suggests that mapping activities (broadly defined) create space(s) for courageous conversations on difficult topics (e.g. race and social-economic status). These spaces are not only between teacher and student but also can be extended to teacher educators by focusing on critical and collaborative self-study.

Research limitations/implications

Because of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to use critical and collaborative reflection to inform their own praxis.

Practical implications

The paper shares pedagogical approaches and reflections for highlighting geospatial literacies and critical place consciousness within teacher education.

Originality/value

This has significance as there is a relative dearth of literature detailing how critical teacher educators can learn with and from each other when working to focus place-based learning in the context of teacher preparation.
Environmental control and metabolic strategies of organic‐matter‐responsive bacterioplankton in the Weddell Sea (Antarctica)
Authors: Piontek Judith , Hassenrück Christiane , Zäncker Birthe , Jürgens Klaus
Published: July 2024

Heterotrophic microbial communities play a significant role in driving carbon fluxes in marine ecosystems. Despite their importance, these communities remain understudied in remote polar oceans, which are known for their substantial contribution to the biological drawdown of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Our research focused on understanding the environmental factors and genetic makeup of key bacterial players involved in carbon remineralization in the Weddell Sea, including its coastal polynyas. Our experiments demonstrated that the combination of labile organic matter supply and temperature increase synergistically boosted bacterial growth. This suggests that, besides low seawater temperature, carbon limitation also hinders heterotrophic bacterial activity. Through the analysis of metagenome‐assembled genomes, we discovered distinct genomic adaptation strategies in Bacteroidia and Gammaproteobacteria, both of which respond to organic matter. Both natural phytoplankton blooms and experimental addition of organic matter favoured Bacteroidia, which possess a large number of gene copies and a wide range of functional membrane transporters, glycoside hydrolases, and aminopeptidases. In contrast, the genomes of organic‐matter‐responsive Gammaproteobacteria were characterized by high densities of transcriptional regulators and transporters. Our findings suggest that bacterioplankton in the Weddell Sea, which respond to organic matter, employ metabolic strategies similar to those of their counterparts in temperate oceans. These strategies enable efficient growth at extremely low seawater temperatures, provided that organic carbon limitation is alleviated.
The New Testament Church of God Heritage Centre: A Site of Remembering: Sharing our Stories and their Impact on our Institutional Memory*
Authors: Thompson Phyllis
Published: July 2024

This case study presents some of the significant learning outcomes in gathering, interpreting, sharing stories and the impact on our institutional memory. It places this article in a learning context; learning from past expressions and experiences for a better future. To this end it highlights the virtues associated with notions of what is commonly associated with the aims and objectives of a “Learning Organisation.” The case study emphasises the value of a “bottom up” story and not just telling it from the “big man's” perspective, from the point of view of a male dominated hierarchical organisation and in so doing, it recognises the valued contribution of our diverse demography. Sharing our stories within the context of heritage enables us to look at our Pentecostal tradition with respect and honesty whilst at the same time being open to new ways of seeing and thinking about our legacy.
A Migrant Archive: Chronicling Religious and Spiritual Experiences during the Pandemic 2020–23*
Authors: Gillespie Marie
Published: July 2024

This article focuses on a digital platform which invited forced migrants to document their experiences during the Covid pandemic, resulting in an archive of digital materials, much of it relating to religion and spirituality: around 1000 contributions by around 800 asylum‐seekers, refugees and undocumented migrants. Using smartphones, they shared audio and video recordings, photos, texts, artworks, etc. The Covid Chronicles project, funded by the Open University, ran from March 2020 to June 2023. It was initiated by a group of academic researchers and forced migrants connected through volunteering with support organisations in UK cities and the Netherlands. Via personal networks and social media, the project extended its reach, snowball‐fashion. The bulk of contributions are from the UK and mainland Europe but eventually the project connected forced migrant individuals and groups worldwide. The content is hugely varied, but many contributors refer to religious and spiritual practices, frequently bearing witness to the solidarities created by care‐giving community actions and invoking ethical principles rooted in faith traditions. Many hoped that a better future might emerge from the crisis: this archive is as much about imagining viable futures as it is about documenting history.
INSURGENT CO‐PRODUCTION: Conflict, Cooperation and the Dialectics of Scale in Thailand's Baan Mankong Program
Authors: Shelby Hayden
Published: July 2024

This article examines the role of insurgency in scaling up the co‐production of housing. Co‐production has gained in popularity in the past 15 years as both a set of practices and an intellectual framing for analyzing urbanization in the global South. Discussions of co‐production have largely emphasized the cooperative nature of the approach, asserting that a mostly non‐confrontational politics has proven effective at reshaping urban governance in ways that better meet the needs of the urban poor. However, recent analyses have identified conflict versus confrontation as a key tension in co‐production, especially as co‐productive programs seek to go to scale. I contribute to these discussions by analyzing a well‐known case of large‐scale co‐production, Thailand's Baan Mankong program, to understand the roles of insurgent versus cooperative community networks in the program's trajectory. I conclude that a more insurgent network opens up new land, resources and avenues for political participation. A more cooperative network then renders many of these interventions broadly politically acceptable to those in power. The two networks thus exist in a dialectic that has enabled the program's scaling up. I argue that research into co‐production should pay more attention to the importance of confrontational tactics by community networks.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine and perceived intergenerational mobility in Europe
Authors: Gugushvili Alexi , Präg Patrick
Published: July 2024

In this study, we shed light on the social consequences the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has had in other European countries. We argue that positive perceptions of one's intergenerational mobility are linked with political and economic stability and that the war can thus be expected to impact intergenerational mobility perceptions. We test our pre‐registered hypothesis with representative survey data from three European countries, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Sweden, which were significantly affected by the ongoing war. Our results show that individuals' war‐related concerns in all countries are divided into proximal and distal concerns. In turn, proximal concerns go along with greater perceived downward and less perceived upward mobility in the United Kingdom and Germany. We interpret these findings by calling for expanding the horizons of intergenerational mobility research by incorporating areas of life other than socio‐economic position.
Human resource flexibility and employee creativity: the roles of perceived HR strength, career satisfaction, and employer brand
Authors: Zhu Fei , Wan Juan , Zhu Xiji , Yue Meiqi
Published: July 2024

In a dynamic business environment, human resource (HR) flexibility has emerged as a key factor in improving organizational performance and in potentially influencing employee outcomes. However, research on the complex cross‐level effects of HR flexibility on employee outcomes remains underexplored. This study addresses this research gap by focusing on HR flexibility and its impact on employee creativity. Drawing on social information processing (SIP) theory, we present a novel model that elucidates the mechanisms through which HR flexibility promotes employee creativity and identifies the boundary conditions under which this effect is most pronounced. Specifically, we argue that perceived HR strength and career satisfaction play serial mediating roles in the relationship between HR flexibility and employee creativity, and that employer brand positively moderates this relationship. Our arguments are supported by a sample of 344 employees and 72 senior HR managers from financial services companies in China. Our work applies SIP theory to deepen the understanding of HR flexibility and contributes to the literature on HR flexibility and creativity.
Institutional dual holdings and expected crash risk: Evidence from mergers between lenders and equity holders
Authors: Li Bing , Liu Zhenbin , Pittman Jeffrey , Yang Shijie
Published: July 2024

Exploiting mergers between lenders and shareholders of the same firm as an exogenous shock to shareholder–creditor conflicts, we examine the causal effect of these conflicts on firms' ex ante expected stock price crash risk evident in the options implied volatility smirk. The decrease in conflicts of interest between lenders and shareholders induces dual holders to encourage the disclosure of more information to alleviate costly information asymmetry with other investors and better execute their oversight role in constraining managers' bad news suppression. Consistent with expectations, we find that a firm's ex ante expected crash risk declines after a shareholder–creditor merger. We also report strong, robust evidence that the negative impact of mergers on firms' expected crash risk increases when institutional investors or lenders have a greater stake in the treatment firms or when shareholder–creditor conflicts are apt to be exacerbated. Additionally, we document that firms issue management earnings forecasts (especially bad news forecasts) more frequently after these mergers. Finally, we find that expected crash risk decreases more after mergers in firms suffering worse information asymmetry and with weak monitoring mechanisms. Our evidence suggests that option market participants value the dual holder's role in deterring managers' bad news hoarding.
An ethical assessment of powered exoskeletons: Implications from clinical use to industry and military contexts
Authors: Erden Yasemin J. , Rainey Stephen
Published: July 2024

Exoskeletons are technologies that can help to increase or improve mobility, dexterity, and strength. They can be used as assistive devices, to restore lost affordances, or for rehabilitation. While mechanical exoskeletons are passive and rely on the body's power for movement, powered exoskeletons are active mechanical systems that can assist or enhance a user's capacity, including in strength and performance. They also offer scope to augment or enhance beyond simple medical support, with potential in the future for superhuman power and strength. While these technologies present promising clinical opportunities, including for those who want to regain walking capacity, they also bring ethical questions, such as about data privacy and accessibility. In addition, the physical features of the technology can prove mentally, physically, and financially demanding, and may be deployed in contexts where user choice and autonomy is constrained. In this article, we discuss these issues, and raise some pertinent ethical questions, not all of which can be easily answered. We touch upon medical and therapeutic uses, for industrial and workplace settings, and in military contexts specially, given these are contexts where such technology may be required or even imposed. We argue that reasonable optimism for such technologies needs to be tempered by sufficient ethical assessment to identify and address barriers to research, development, and use. As well as managing any impacts and expectations for the health and wellbeing of users, the potential impact on autonomy and the risk of coercion, we have to consider what kind of data may be recorded or used, and the risk that these technologies could exacerbate existing inequalities or harms.
Pre‐processing visual scenes for retinal prosthesis systems: A comprehensive review
Authors: Holiel Heidi Ahmed , Fawzi Sahar Ali , Al‐Atabany Walid
Published: July 2024

Background

Retinal prostheses offer hope for individuals with degenerative retinal diseases by stimulating the remaining retinal cells to partially restore their vision. This review delves into the current advancements in retinal prosthesis technology, with a special emphasis on the pivotal role that image processing and machine learning techniques play in this evolution.

Methods

We provide a comprehensive analysis of the existing implantable devices and optogenetic strategies, delineating their advantages, limitations, and challenges in addressing complex visual tasks. The review extends to various image processing algorithms and deep learning architectures that have been implemented to enhance the functionality of retinal prosthetic devices. We also illustrate the testing results by demonstrating the clinical trials or using Simulated Prosthetic Vision (SPV) through phosphene simulations, which is a critical aspect of simulating visual perception for retinal prosthesis users.

Results

Our review highlights the significant progress in retinal prosthesis technology, particularly its capacity to augment visual perception among the visually impaired. It discusses the integration between image processing and deep learning, illustrating their impact on individual interactions and navigations within the environment through applying clinical trials and also illustrating the limitations of some techniques to be used with current devices, as some approaches only use simulation even on sighted‐normal individuals or rely on qualitative analysis, where some consider realistic perception models and others do not.

Conclusion

This interdisciplinary field holds promise for the future of retinal prostheses, with the potential to significantly enhance the quality of life for individuals with retinal prostheses. Future research directions should pivot towards optimizing phosphene simulations for SPV approaches, considering the distorted and confusing nature of phosphene perception, thereby enriching the visual perception provided by these prosthetic devices. This endeavor will not only improve navigational independence but also facilitate a more immersive interaction with the environment.