bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In vitro and in vivo NIR Fluorescence Lifetime Imaging with a time-gated SPAD camera
Authors: Smith Jason T. , Rudkouskaya Alena , Gao Shan , Gupta Juhi M. , Ulku Arin , Bruschini Claudio , Charbon Edoardo , Weiss Shimon , Barroso Margarida , Intes Xavier , Michalet Xavier
Published: December 2021

Near-infrared (NIR) fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLI) provides a unique contrast mechanism to monitor biological parameters and molecular events in vivo. Single-photon avalanche photodiode (SPAD) cameras have been recently demonstrated in FLI microscopy (FLIM) applications, but their suitability for in vivo macroscopic FLI (MFLI) in deep tissues remains to be demonstrated. Herein, we report in vivo NIR MFLI measurement with SwissSPAD2, a large time-gated SPAD camera. We first benchmark its performance in well-controlled in vitro experiments, ranging from monitoring environmental effects on fluorescence lifetime, to quantifying Förster Resonant Energy Transfer (FRET) between dyes. Next, we use it for in vivo studies of target-drug engagement in live and intact tumor xenografts using FRET. Information obtained with SwissSPAD2 was successfully compared to that obtained with a gated-ICCD camera, using two different approaches. Our results demonstrate that SPAD cameras offer a powerful technology for in vivo preclinical applications in the NIR window.
Kinetics and mechanisms of catalyzed dual-E (antithetic) controllers
Authors: Waheed Qaiser , Zhou Huimin , Ruoff Peter
Published: December 2021

Homeostasis plays a central role in our understanding how cells and organisms are able to oppose environmental disturbances and thereby maintain an internal stability. During the last two decades there has been an increased interest in using control engineering methods, especially integral control, in the analysis and design of homeostatic networks. Several reaction kinetic mechanisms have been discovered which lead to integral control. In two of them integral control is achieved, either by the removal of a single control species E by zero-order kinetics (”single-E controllers”), or by the removal of two control species by second-order kinetics (”antithetic or dual-E control”). In this paper we show results when the control species E1 and E2 in antithetic control are removed enzymatically by ping-pong or ternary-complex mechanisms. Our findings show that enzyme-catalyzed dual-E controllers can work in two control modes. In one mode, one of the two control species is active, but requires zero-order kinetics in its removal. In the other mode, both controller species are active and both are removed enzymatically. Conditions for the two control modes are put forward and biochemical examples with the structure of enzyme-catalyzed dual-E controllers are discussed.
dbGSRV: a manually curated database of genetic susceptibility to respiratory virus
Authors: Li Ping , Zhang Yan , Shen Wenlong , Shi Shu , Zhao Zhihu
Published: December 2021

Human genetics has been proposed to play an essential role in inter-individual differences in respiratory virus infection occurrence and outcomes. To systematically understand human genetic contributions to respiratory virus infection, we developed the database dbGSRV, a manually curated database that integrated the host genetic susceptibility and severity studies of respiratory viruses scattered over literatures in PubMed. At present, dbGSRV contains 1932 records of genetic association studies relating 1010 unique variants and seven respiratory viruses, manually curated from 168 published articles. Users can access the records by quick searching, batch searching, advanced searching and browsing. Reference information, infection status, population information, mutation information and disease relationship are provided for each record, as well as hyper links to public databases in convenient of users accessing more information. In addition, a visual overview of the topological network relationship between respiratory viruses and associated genes is provided. Therefore, dbGSRV offers a promising avenue to facilitate researchers to dissect human factors in respiratory virus infection, define novel drug targets, conduct risk stratification of population and develop personalized medicine approaches.

Database URL: http://www.ehbio.com/dbGSRV/front/
CREBBP/EP300 acetyltransferase inhibition disrupts FOXA1-bound enhancers to inhibit the proliferation of ER+ breast cancer cells
Authors: Bommi-Reddy Archana , Park-Chouinard Sungmi , Mayhew David N. , Terzo Esteban , Hingway Aparna , Steinbaugh Michael J. , Wilson Jonathan E. , Sims Robert J. , Conery Andrew R.
Published: December 2021

Therapeutic targeting of the estrogen receptor (ER) is a clinically validated approach for estrogen receptor positive breast cancer (ER+ BC), but sustained response is limited by acquired resistance. Targeting the transcriptional coactivators required for estrogen receptor activity represents an alternative approach that is not subject to the same limitations as targeting estrogen receptor itself. In this report we demonstrate that the acetyltransferase activity of coactivator paralogs CREBBP/EP300 represents a promising therapeutic target in ER+ BC. Using the potent and selective inhibitor CPI-1612, we show that CREBBP/EP300 acetyltransferase inhibition potently suppresses in vitro and in vivo growth of breast cancer cell line models and acts in a manner orthogonal to directly targeting ER. CREBBP/EP300 acetyltransferase inhibition suppresses ER-dependent transcription by targeting lineage-specific enhancers defined by the pioneer transcription factor FOXA1. These results validate CREBBP/EP300 acetyltransferase activity as a viable target for clinical development in ER+ breast cancer.
Contrasting effects of accumulation and tolerance characteristics in Arabidopsis thaliana under Cr(III) and Cr(VI) stress
Authors: Han Yonghong , Ding Guotao , Sun Peng , Li Giuiying , Li Weihao
Published: December 2021

In this study, for the first time we investigated Cr(III) and Cr(VI) stress-induced physiological and biochemical responses in Arabidopsis thaliana. The capacity of A. thalian to accumulate Cr is closely related to the valence of chromium. Cr(VI) was more toxic than Cr(III) as indicated by chromium accumulation and growth inhibition. When the concentration of chromium is greater than 200μM, the root length and biomass of A. thaliana are reduced. But interestingly, Cr(III) at 200μM increased the root length and biomass of A. thaliana compared to the control. The transmission electron microscope shows that Cr(VI) can cause the chloroplasts damaged and the chlorophyll reduced more than Cr(III). The chloroplasts were filled the starch grains. An increase of lipid peroxidation in A. thaliana roots caused by Cr was measured, and this effect increases as the increasing Cr. It indicated that A. thaliana suffers from Cr-induced oxidative stress which resulted cell death in roots. To fight against oxidative stress, Ascorbate peroxidase and Glutathione reductase were activated by Cr in antioxidant defense. The inhibition of growth, the accumulation of chromium, the responses of antioxidant systems, and the ultra-morphological changes indicate that Cr(VI) was more toxic than Cr(III).
Determinants of trade credit financing: a dynamic analysis comparing agri-food cooperatives and non-cooperatives
Authors: Martínez-Victoria MCarmen , Maté-Sanchez-Val Mariluz
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The particular characteristics of agri-food cooperatives reduce their ability to access external financial resources. The purpose of this paper is to explore the factors influencing the agri-food cooperatives' trade credit operations by measuring their accounts receivable and comparing the results with agri-food investor-owned firms (IOFs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors apply a partial adjustment model (PAM) estimated using a dynamic panel model with a two-step general method of moments (GMM) estimator to a sample of 11,930 Spanish agri-food cooperatives and IOFs for the period 2011–2018.

Findings

The study concludes that cooperatives and IOFs have an accounts receivable target, which they attempt to achieve rapidly. Cooperatives tend to behave as IOFs do, but they present lower adjustment coefficients. This difference seems to be explained by the unique characteristics of cooperatives which set different economic and social goals, not just profit maximization as IOFs. The findings show differences between the financial and commercial purposes of the cooperatives and IOFs as a result of their internal management policies. Larger cooperatives with access to external financial sources, positive cash flows and operational necessities will grant trade credit.

Originality/value

This study gives interesting implications for cooperative managers and policymakers to help them to understand the strategies behind trade credit policies. Previous empirical studies on the agri-food sector are scarce and focus on IOFs without considering the role of trade credit in European cooperatives.
Searching memories of pleasures in local cuisine: how nostalgia and hedonic values affect tourists' behavior at hot spring destinations?
Authors: Chang Janet , Lin Sean Hsin-Hung , Wu Li-Sheng
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Historically, hot springs have been regarded as hedonic and foodie destinations, yet the antecedents that affect tourists' intentions for local cuisine in hot springs remain unexplored. The present study aims to address this knowledge gap by considering the role of nostalgia and hedonic values in tourist food consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 315 domestic tourists by intercept surveys conducted in the Beitou Hot Spring, Taiwan. Covariance-based structural equation modeling (SEM) and bootstrapping were used to test the hypotheses as well as mediating effects.

Findings

Nostalgia positively influences hedonic values, which affect tourists' intentions for local food consumption. Unexpectedly, nostalgia does not directly influence tourists' preferences due to complete mediation through hedonic values.

Research limitations/implications

Given a growing number of young consumers visiting hot springs, hedonic experience is essential and more effective for pulling visitors and stimulating local food consumption than nostalgia vibes are. Cross-cultural samples and qualitative research are suggested for future studies.

Originality/value

The study demonstrates different levels of nostalgia in different ages. It highlights the mediating role of hedonic values between nostalgia and tourists' intentions for local cuisine in the hot spring destinations, which has been overlooked in previous studies. Originality is also established by simultaneously investigating hedonic values and behavioral intentions within the context of food tourism.
Quality perception throughout the table egg supply chain
Authors: Mitrovic Marija , Tomasevic Igor , Djekic Ilija
Published: December 2021

Purpose:

This research shows how the perception of quality differs through the table egg chain and highlights the main quality characteristics for each studied chain participant (farm, retail, consumer).

Design/methodology/approach:

Observing the change in perception starts from the farm, through retail to the end consumer using the customer–supplier interaction, while looking back from the consumer to the farm, the application of the quality function deployment (QFD) was used. The study included 30 farms, 50 retail stores, 1,000 customers and 300 households.

Findings:

The farm–retail comparison highlights the type of production as the dominant factor affecting egg quality for both of these participants, followed by hen diet and the type of laying hen hybrid from the farmer's point of view, while retail focuses on packaging and egg damage. Egg quality aspects from the retail–household perspective emphasize the shell appearance and the origin of the eggs, while shelf life and egg class are equally important characteristics for both participants. The application of the QFD throughout the entire egg chain emphasizes quality vs price as the most important characteristic.

Originality/value:

This study could serve to food policy makers as an introduction to further research and production orientation in relation to the set of quality requirements associated with the egg supply chain.
A global perspective of the role of domestic economic, financial and political risks in inbound tourism
Authors: Athari Seyed Alireza , Alola Uju Violet , Alola Andrew Adewale
Published: December 2021

Purpose

In this study, as part of an attempt to foster sustainable development, the aim is directed at understanding the perspectives of domestic economic, financial and political risks in tourism development. On the other hand, the role of other agents of sustainable development: innovation, infrastructure, health and primary education and global crisis in tourism development, was illustrated.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve this objective, the current study explored the (system) SYS-Generalized Method of Moments (GMM) technique for a panel of selected 73 economies over the period 2006–2017. This GMM approached is not undertaken without first establishing the stationarity (a preliminary test) of the employed dataset by utilizing the relevant unit root techniques.

Findings

First, the study found that minimizing risks from economic, financial and political aspects is significant and vital to the attractiveness of the tourism destinations and the eventual development of the tourism sector. Second, the study presents innovation or technological readiness and health and primary education as agents of sustainable development through the growth of international tourism arrivals while global crisis is significantly detrimental to tourism inflow.

Originality/value

Overall, the study presents the contribution of tourism as a pathway to sustainable development from unique dimensions. Investigating a large panel (of 73 countries) is a unique approach. In addition, considering the economic vulnerability of the panel countries from the aspects of risk arising from economic, financial and political aspects is another interesting dimension to the novelty of the study. Thus, this study offers relevant policies for tourism stakeholders.
Influence of the taper on the fretting wear of the femoral stem-femoral head taper junction in total hip prosthesis
Authors: Capitanu Lucian , Badita Liliana-Laura , Tiganesteanu Constantin , Florescu Virgil
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the roughness effect on the fixation of taper junction components and surfaces wear in terms of taper surface design. The roughness of the femoral heads’ taper and of the femoral stems’ trunnions can influence the fretting wear of the taper junction.

Design/methodology/approach

It was analysed whether a microgrooved taper surface of the femoral stem trunnion improves the fixation and reduces the wear rate at the taper junction of the hip prosthesis. Two models have studied: a femoral head with a smooth tapered surface combined with a microgrooved stem trunnion and a femoral head with a smooth tapered surface combined with a trunnion that had a smooth surface of the tapered. To compare the wear evolution between these two models, a computerised finite element model of the wear was used.

Findings

The results obtained after analysis carried out during millions of loading cycles showed that the depth of the linear wear and the total material loss were higher for the femoral heads joined with microgrooved trunnions. The main conclusion of this paper is that the smooth surfaces of the taper and of the trunnions will ensure a better fixation at the taper junction, and therefore, will reduce the volumetric wear rates.

Originality/value

A higher fixation of the taper junction will reduce the total hip prosthesis failure and, finally, it will improve the quality and durability of modular hip prostheses.
The role of key online reviews in affecting online hotel booking: an empirical investigation
Authors: Zhang Dong , Wu Pengkun , Wu Chong
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The importance of online reviews on online hotel booking has been widely acknowledged. However, not all online reviews affect consumers equally. Compared with common online reviews, key online reviews (KORs) have a greater influence on consumers' decisions and online hotel booking. This study takes the first step to investigate the factors affecting the identification of KORs and the role of KORs in online hotel booking.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the research hypotheses, this study develops a crawler to obtain 551,600 online reviews of 650 hotels in ten representative large cities in China. This study first uses a binary logistic regression to identify KORs by combining review content quality and reviewer characteristics and then uses a log-regression model to investigate the role of KORs in online hotel booking.

Findings

This study mined the factors affecting the identification of KORs by analyzing review contents and reviewer characteristics. Our results revealed that KORs play a mediating role in the effects of review content and reviewer characteristics on online hotel booking.

Originality/value

This study focuses on KORs, which have received limited attention in research but are important to practitioners. Specifically, this study investigates the antecedents and consequences of KORs. Our results enable hotel managers to manage online reviews effectively, particularly KORs.
Restorative measures to diminish the covid-19 pandemic effects through circular economy enablers for sustainable and resilient supply chain
Authors: Agarwal Somesh , Tyagi Mohit , Garg Rajiv Kumar
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The catastrophic state of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak has seized off all the operations along with the globe. It has not only distressed the socio-economic structure of the world but also mounted enormous pressure on the governmental bodies to save the lives of the people. Despite this, severe impacts of the same have been observed on the small and medium manufacturing enterprises (SMME) practices, resulting in the economic downturn. The purpose of this study is to facilitate the SMME’s with circular economy (CE) practices to overcome the negative impacts of the COVID-19 outbreak on their supply chain (SC) operations.

Design/methodology/approach

The presented work identified seven critical impacts as criteria of the novel COVID-19 pandemic on the Indian SMME and seeks to identify the relief measures in the CE paradigm by identifying 13 prominent enablers to CE as alternatives. Experts’ opinions have been engaged to detect CE enablers’ proficiency to overpower the pandemic impact through a questionnaire-based survey. The obtained data have been clustered and analyzed through a hybrid approach of entropy weight method and grey relational analysis to find an organized ranking of the enablers.

Findings

Current work spotlights the SMME’s losses due to SC disruptions and declined consumption patterns. The waste augmentation during the pandemic era has also been grouped in this study, primarily associating with the SC’s waste generation. The result of the performed analysis shows that the CE enabler “waste reduction and its transformation into a resource (E1)” have achieved the highest rank among all the considered enablers, governing a higher demand toward reusing waste for better handling the post COVID era state of affairs.

Originality/value

The presented study aimed to suppress the pandemic impact and generate anticipation of the CE concept, which might help the managers and policymakers identify its urgent need to achieve a stable and resilient SC system in a post COVID period. Presented work is peculiar, aiming to accelerate the CE adaption with green material usage in the industrial sector to suppress the present miserable condition and to achieve industrial and social sustainability for a better-foreseen future.
How does dataveillance drive consumer online payment resistance?
Authors: Shankar Amit , Yadav Rambalak , Behl Abhishek , Gupta Manish
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to examine the effect of dataveillance on resistance towards online payment. Using a moderated-mediation framework, the study also investigates the mediating effects of perceived privacy and security concerns and how these mediating effects are moderated by corporate credibility, consumer scepticism and consumer empowerment.

Design/methodology/approach

A scenario-based experimental design was performed to examine the proposed hypotheses. Analysis of covariance and PROCESS macro were used to examine the hypotheses by analysing 312 collected responses.

Findings

The results indicated the dataveillance positively affects consumer resistance towards online payment. The results also suggested that corporate credibility and consumer scepticism significantly moderates the association between dataveillance and resistance towards online payment.

Practical implications

The findings of this study will help online retailers to reduce consumers’ perceived privacy and security concerns, thereby reducing consumers’ resistance towards online payment.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the study contributes to privacy, consumer behaviour, online payment and cognitive-motivational-relational theory literature.
The neglected contexts and outcomes of evidence-based management: a systematic scoping review in hospital settings
Authors: Sahakian Tina , Daouk-Öyry Lina , Kroon Brigitte , Kooij Dorien T.A.M. , Alameddine Mohamad
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic highlighted the necessity of practicing Evidence-based Management (EBMgt) as an approach to decision-making in hospital settings. The literature, however, provides limited insight into the process of EBMgt and its contextual nuances. Such insight is critical for better leveraging EBMgt in practice. Therefore, the authors' aim was to integrate the literature on the process of EBMgt in hospital settings, identify the gaps in knowledge and delineate areas for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a systematic scoping review using an innovative methodology that involved two systematic searches. First using EBMgt terminology and second using terminology associated with the EBMgt concept, which the authors derived from the first search.

Findings

The authors identified 218 relevant articles, which using content analysis, they mapped onto the grounded model of the EBMgt process; a novel model of the EBMgt process developed by Sahakian and colleagues. The authors found that the English language literature provides limited insight into the role of managers' perceptions and motives in EBMgt, the practice of EBMgt in Global South countries, and the outcomes of EBMgt. Overall, this study’s findings indicated that aspects of the decision-maker, context and outcomes have been neglected in EBMgt.

Originality/value

The authors contributed to the EBMgt literature by identifying these gaps and proposing future research areas and to the systematic review literature by developing a novel scoping review method.
Connections, rituals and identities: healthcare students’ descriptions of objects that represent resilience
Authors: Maddock Angela , Oates Jennifer
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Health-care student resilience is a well-researched topic, although the concept continues to evolve, not least as “resilience-building” has become an expected feature of health-care student professional education. The study aimed to understand the concept of resilience from the point of view of student nurses and midwives.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a novel arts-informed method, informed by Miller’s and Turkle’s work on “evocative objects.” A total of 25 student nurses and midwives from a London-based university selected “resilience objects” which were photographed and discussed during interviews with an artist-researcher.

Findings

Analysis of the interviews revealed that “resilience” was founded on identity, connection, activity and protection. “Resilience objects” were used in everyday rituals and “resilience” was a characteristic that developed over time through the inhabiting of multiple identities.

Practical implications

Given that resilience is intertwined with notions of identity, health-care faculties should enhance students’ sense of identity, including, but not exclusively, nursing or midwifery professional identity, and invite students to develop simple rituals to cope with the challenges of health-care work.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to locate health-care students’ resilience in specific material objects. Novel insights are that health-care students used everyday rituals and everyday objects to connect to their sense of purpose and manage their emotions, as means of being resilient.
The autonomy of informal STEM and benefits of andragogy with gifted children
Authors: Calabrese Julia E. , Capraro Robert M.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

In distinguishing the education of adults from the education of children, a gray area lies on where to classify gifted and honors students. The purpose of this study was to determine if the attitudes of students at an honors STEM summer camp paralleled the educational needs of adults, namely self-directed learning.

Design/methodology/approach

Researchers analyzed survey responses through an exploratory factor analysis and five t tests.

Findings

The interpretation of the effect sizes showed that after engaging in a self-directed learning experience, students expressed more positive self-efficacy and intrinsic motivation, experienced reduced extrinsic motivation and anxiety, and were less task-completion oriented.

Originality/value

The results suggest that gifted and honors students may have a propensity to learn that is more similar to that of adults rather than their same-age peers.
Survey analysis for the adoption of 3D printing technology: consumers’ perspective
Authors: Mavri Maria , Fronimaki Evgenia , Kadrefi Athanasia
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Although the adoption of 3D printing technology in many sectors such as medicine, aerospace, jewelry and the food industry is remarkable, the adoption of 3D printing technology by hobbyists remains unknown. The purpose of this paper is to map the attitude of individuals toward this new technology, define critical factors that have an impact on hobbyists’ behavior and, finally, explore the impact of 3D printing on social, economic and environmental changes, as 3D printing technology redesigns manufacturing, thereby impacting many sectors of day-to-day life.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey has been carried out on Greek hobbyists, and valuable conclusions have been drawn. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire survey performed on a sample of 344 Greek consumers in this sector. A questionnaire of 30 questions was distributed electronically.

Findings

This paper contributes to the determination of the percentage of individuals that know about 3D printing, the factors that have a significant contribution to adoption of the technology and, finally, identifies the profile of those that use 3D printing technology either in their work or for their hobby. Using a factor analysis, the authors classified users into five categories based on their attitudes towards 3D printing adoption: “innovators,” “informed,” “ecologists,” “engineers” and “re-users.”

Research limitations/implications

The authors believe that understanding the predictors of 3D printing technology adoption for personal use and its benefits will overcome a pertained research gap and establish an empirical nucleus for further studies in relevant contexts. This type of research is necessary to expand the survey to other European countries.

Practical implications

3D printing is not new, but rather is an emerging technology. Individuals are willing to adopt this innovative technology. Based on the results of our survey, a desktop 3D printer will be necessary for every home and office in the near future.

Social implications

The impact of 3D printing technology on rural life and its social implications are open questions. In this paper, by identifying the groups of hobbyists, the authors determine their particular characteristics and their perspectives on this new technology. All of what is discussed above is valuable for mapping the characteristics of those who adopt this technology.

Originality/value

This study is attempting to determine the behavior of individuals towards 3D printing technology, their awareness and how familiar they are with this new technological innovation.
Organizational memory: a qualitative research study on a multi-cultural organization
Authors: Sen Cem , Arun Korhan , Okun Olcay
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper articulates a multi-contextual and dynamic system for memory research in relation to multi-cultural organizations (MCOs) by a qualitative research method.

Design/methodology/approach

Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were conducted with representatives of 30 national officers in North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to illuminate how the construction of organizational memory (OM) can then be compared and contrasted across different cultures.

Findings

The findings show that OM still mostly resides in individuals with the social transfer. However, even if, cultural aspects define what should be stored, time and purpose, the static memory of individuals becomes dynamic OM that is represented and interpreted in an organization's practices, policies and learning.

Originality/value

The primary contribution is to attempt to dissolve the seeming assumption of dialectical metaphoric perspectives of OM between different but related sub-communities of practice and outcomes. Consequently, socially constructed and individual memory models are necessary to integrate different metaphors according to the multi-context theory, which extends the understanding of the diversity between the cultural backgrounds of individuals and groups.
The impact of government procurement and anti-poverty efforts on sales format selection in a supply chain
Authors: Zhang Qingyu , Luo Tianlong
Published: December 2021

Purpose

In the presence of government procurement, one important driving force behind a poor farmer entering into sales format agreements is to improve profits. In this study, the authors examine two widely used sales formats, namely resale format and agent format, to investigate how parameters influence the optimal sales format selection and decision equilibriums of supply chain members under the scenarios with or without the buyer's poverty alleviation efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper adopts the Stackelberg game-theoretical approach to examine the interactions between the farmer from poor/rural areas and the buyer.

Findings

The authors find that under certain conditions, the optimal sales format of the poor farmer and buyer can be consistent, which eliminates conflicts in the sales format selection. In addition, with the buyer's poverty alleviation effort, the poor farmer and buyer can achieve the Pareto improvement, which is a win–win outcome for them. The authors also find that the market price in government procurement is independent of competition, which is consistent with practical observations.

Originality/value

It is the first study to investigate the optimal sales format selection given government procurement as a poverty alleviation effort which is in competition with a firm's regular channel.
Developing a faculty-librarian collaboration model to support teaching and research at Vietnamese universities
Authors: Tuamsuk Kulthida , Nguyen Lan Thi
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to design a collaborative model amongst faculty and librarian to support teaching and research congruent with the Vietnamese context.

Design/methodology/approach

The mix-method research is used in three stages to (1) study the situation and problems of faculty-librarian collaboration by using semi-structured interviews with 29 participants, (2) survey factors influencing the collaboration from 455 samples, (3) evaluate and arrange the influence level of factors from 18 experts' perspectives.

Findings

The research results show that in order to enhance the quality and gain goals of the collaboration, it is necessary to meet three elements, in which universities must (1) meet essential conditions and factors, (2) identify collaborative objectives and activities, collaborative process/guidelines, and evaluating collaboration; and (3) clarify the participation and support of stakeholders to achieve common outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

This study carried out with representatives for key informant group at four universities in Vietnam, thus, the research results could not cover all current situation of the faculty–librarian collaboration at universities.

Originality/value

This paper provides the detail picture of faculty–librarian collaboration practices and factors having influence this activity at Vietnamese universities. Then, the findings help administrators, faculty and librarians understand and deploy a reasonable plan in accordance with the university's features to enhance the effectiveness and success of the faculty–librarian collaboration.
Tax literacy: what does it mean?
Authors: De Clercq Bernadene
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the competency domains to be included in a conceptual framework for tax literacy.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative approach, this study expands on the current understanding of the competency areas of tax literacy. A dual-purpose literature review was, therefore, conducted. The literature review first provided the body of knowledge that underpinned the study and second, the key data concepts for the draft competency structure to determine whether there is consensus on an international (supra) level. The literature review was supported by an interactive qualitative analysis to further present the concept of tax literacy from the perspectives of various national stakeholders in an emerging economy. Accounting and public finance educators from a higher education institution, as well as financial advisers as representatives of a profession with a direct interest in tax-related matters, were considered.

Findings

Although a discipline lens seems to strongly influence the previous authors’ view of what tax literacy means, it was possible to identify certain tax literacy competency domains that should be included in a taxpayer education curriculum. These content domains consist first of a knowledge domain which includes disciplinary, interdisciplinary, epistemic and procedural knowledge components. Second, the skills domain should include components of cognitive and meta-cognitive, social and emotional, as well as physical and practice skills. Third, personal and societal attitudes and values represent the third domain. Fourth, transformative competencies such as value creation, taking responsibility and reconciliation attributes are important. Finally, core foundational competencies, such as numeracy and literacy should be in place.

Practical implications

The draft conceptual framework for tax literacy could serve as the foundation for the further development of a tax literacy measurement instrument, as well as tax education courses.

Originality/value

A more holistic conceptual framework for tax literacy, portraying the multidimensional nature of taxation, is presented in contrast to the limited one-dimensional position presented up to now.
Resilience in the supply chain management: understanding critical aspects and how digital technologies can contribute to Brazilian companies in the COVID-19 context
Authors: Martins Vitor William Batista , Anholon Rosley , Leal Filho Walter , Quelhas Osvaldo Luiz Gonçalves
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The present study aims to identify the most critical elements of resilience in the management of supply chains of Brazilian companies and, in the sequence, debate possible digital technologies mentioned by literature to enhance them.

Design/methodology/approach

To identify the most critical elements, the information provided by qualified academics was used. Data analysis was performed through Cronbach’s alpha coefficient, hierarchical cluster analysis and Fuzzy TOPSIS approach.

Findings

Comparatively, the results pointed out three elements of resilience as the most critical in managing supply chains. They are the decision-making (understood as the definitions from the layout of the chain’s operations network to the choice of warehouse locations, distribution centres and manufacturing facilities), human resources (understood as management for human resources development and knowledge management through training) and security (understood as issues related to information technology for data security). For each of them, bibliographic research was performed to identify technologies that enhance these elements of supply chain management resilience.

Originality/value

The results presented here can significantly contribute to the expansion of debates associated with resilience in managing supply chains of Brazilian companies and directing researchers in the area.
Isomorphism and organizational performance: evidence from quality management in higher education
Authors: Ansmann Moritz , Seyfried Markus
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Quality management has become an integral part of management reforms in public sector organizations. Drawing on a new institutionalist perspective, this study aims to investigate the relation of management reforms and organizational performance in the context of higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analyse the interaction between isomorphic conformity in quality management adoption, organizational learning and quality improvement and, in so doing, address the central theoretical question of what effects isomorphic conformity has on organizational performance. Empirically, the study draws on survey data from quality managers at public higher education institutions in Germany. Methodically, it applies confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results suggest that mimetic isomorphism is surprisingly compatible with processes of organizational learning, and thus, does not inevitably compromise organizational development.

Originality/value

By presenting these findings, the authors contribute to the controversial theoretical debate concerning the effects of isomorphism and to the ongoing discussion regarding the organizational impact of quality management in higher education.
The future role of reverse logistics as a tool for sustainability in food supply chains: a Delphi-based scenario study
Authors: Münch Christopher , von der Gracht Heiko A. , Hartmann Evi
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The importance of integrating sustainability into business activities rises continuously. In addition to an established focus on forward logistics, there is a growing awareness of reverse logistics. Reverse logistics ensures sustainable practices and increases competitiveness for companies, but it also comes with challenges. Therefore, the implementation of reverse logistics is associated with uncertainties. This paper aims to fill this gap by analyzing the development and comprehensive potential of reverse logistics as a sustainability tool.

Design/methodology/approach

To bridge the research gap, a real-time Delphi study was conducted. Through an extensive desk research, semi-structured interviews and an expert workshop, 14 projections for the German food sector of 2040 were created. A total of 49 experts in the field of logistics, reverse logistics and food logistics assessed the future projections concerning estimated probability, impact and desirability of occurrence.

Findings

The findings derived lead to three possible future scenarios as well as potential drivers and barriers that food companies, the government and society need to consider to enable a successful transition toward implementing reverse logistics in food supply chains.

Originality/value

The study examined the future role of reverse logistics as a sustainability tool in food supply chains. The results serve as a framework for decision-making on the sustainable orientation of business practices, leading to increased competitiveness and resilient business strategy. Several implications are derived for practitioners, policymakers and society to promote reverse logistics. Methodologically, this study extends existing Delphi methods by conducting a quantitative dissent and sentiment analysis, considering various surface-level and deep-level diversity characteristics.
Condemned to precarity? Criminalised youths, social enterprise and the sub-precariat
Authors: Soppitt Sarah , Oswald Rebecca , Walker Samantha
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to consider whether social enterprise, who are growing in number and seemingly a politically popular alternative to mainstream employment are a potential conduit for social change. Discussions relating to the value of (stable) employment in reducing and preventing (re)offending are not new. For many ex-offenders, a multitude of barriers stand between them and access to the labour market. As a potential conduit for social change, social enterprises are a growing and seemingly politically popular alternative to mainstream employment.

Design/methodology/approach

Focusing on the qualitative lived experiences of young people (aged between 16 and 18) with criminal convictions enrolled in one such enterprise, this paper examines the extent to which work-integrated social enterprise can assist in overcoming existing barriers to the labour market.

Findings

The paper highlights the value of social enterprise(s) in addressing the complex needs and precarities of criminalised youths, promoting social inclusion and assisting with progression into future employment. The paper also discusses the limitations of social enterprise(s) in overcoming external structural barriers to meaningful employment for those with an offending history and the implications for young people who aspire to more than precariat work.

Originality/value

Justice-orientated social enterprises are allowing young people with criminal records the opportunity to build social capita and access precarious work, previously unattainable for many. By focusing on the concept of “precarity”, this paper builds upon existing research on the collateral consequences of criminal convictions offering insights into the various challenges facing criminalised youths attempting to build a positive pro-social work identity within contemporary labour markets
Current treatment strategies and emerging therapies for cutaneous lymphoma
Authors: Yonekura Kentaro
Published: December 2021

Cutaneous lymphoma is generally treated with skin‐directed therapies (SDT) during the early and localized stages. For the refractory or advanced stages, systemic therapies are used. Previously, retinoids and interferons were used for SDT‐resistant cases. Only a few chemotherapy options were available for more advanced disease. In recent years, many novel agents have been introduced and the strategy for systemic therapy has changed, especially for cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL). For SDT, helical tomotherapy, a new radiation modality, has been drawing attention as an option for radiotherapy. Targeted therapies such as histone deacetylase inhibitors, mogamulizumab, brentuximab vedotin, and denileukin diftitox are new treatment options. Chemotherapy agents such as gemcitabine and pralatrexate have been introduced; they are expected to have meaningful efficacy as monotherapy. Allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is still considered for young patients with advanced CTCL as the only potentially curative treatment.
Phonological acquisition of Brazilian Portuguese: Ages of customary production, acquisition and mastery
Authors: Ceron Marizete Ilha , Simoni Simone Nicolini De , Keske‐Soares Márcia
Published: December 2021

Background

   

Aims

To describe typical phonological development of Brazilian Portuguese (BP)‐speaking children, considering the following parameters: age of customary production, acquisition and mastery.

Methods & Procedures

Data were collected from 857 children aged between 3 years and 8 years 11 months with typical language and speech development. The sample was grouped into 6‐month age bands. The data were analysed using one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) followed by Games–Howell post‐hoc tests.

Outcomes & Results

Stops (/p, b, t, d, k, g/), nasals (/m, n, ɲ/) and some fricatives (/f, v, s, z/) were mastered before the age of 3 years (age of mastery). The age of acquisition for phonemes /ʃ, ʒ/ was 3;6, though both were only mastered at 4;0 years. The liquid /l/ was acquired at 3;0 and mastered at age 3;6, while /x/ was acquired and mastered at age 3;6. The phoneme /ʎ/ was acquired at 7;0 and mastered at age 8;6. The tap /ɾ/ was acquired between the ages of 4;0 and 4;6, and mastered at 4;6. In coda position, /n, l/ were acquired at 3;0, while /s/ was mastered at 4;6 and /ɾ/ between 4;6 and 5;0 years. Clusters involving /ɾ/ were acquired at 6;0, while those with /l/ were acquired between the ages of 6;6 and 7;0.

Conclusions & Implications

This study presented acquisition for consonants in BP and can be used as a reference for the assessment of developmental speech disorders. In this study, stops and nasals were acquired first, followed by fricatives and, lastly, liquids. This finding is corroborated by previous studies in BP and other languages.

What this paper adds

What is already known on the subject

What this paper adds to existing knowledge

What are the potential or actual clinical implications of this work?
Evidence for the effect of brief exposure to food, but not learning interference, on maze solving in desert ants
Authors: GILAD Tomer , DORFMAN Arik , SUBACH Aziz , LIBBRECHT Romain , FOITZIK Susanne , SCHARF Inon
Published: December 2021

Theories of forgetting highlight 2 active mechanisms through which animals forget prior knowledge by reciprocal disruption of memories. According to “proactive interference,” information learned previously interferes with the acquisition of new information, whereas “retroactive interference” suggests that newly gathered information interferes with already existing information. Our goal was to examine the possible effect of both mechanisms in the desert ant Cataglyphis niger, which does not use pheromone recruitment, when learning spatial information while searching for food in a maze. Our experiment indicated that neither proactive nor retroactive interference took place in this system although this awaits confirmation with individual‐level learning assays. Rather, the ants’ persistence or readiness to search for food grew with successive runs in the maze. Elevated persistence led to more ant workers arriving at the food when retested a day later, even if the maze was shifted between runs. We support this finding in a second experiment, where ant workers reached the food reward at the maze end in higher numbers after encountering food in the maze entry compared to a treatment, in which food was present only at the maze end. This result suggests that spatial learning and search persistence are 2 parallel behavioral mechanisms, both assisting foraging ants. We suggest that their relative contribution should depend on habitat complexity.