bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Primordial black holes from supercooled phase transitions
Authors: Gouttenoire Yann , Volansky Tomer
Published: August 2024

Cosmological first-order phase transitions (1stOPTs) are said to be strongly supercooled when the nucleation temperature is much smaller than the critical temperature. These are often encountered in theories that admit a nearly scale-invariant potential, for which the bounce action decreases only logarithmically with temperature. During supercooled 1stOPTs the equation of state of the universe undergoes a rapid and drastic change, transitioning from vacuum domination to radiation domination. The statistical variations in bubble nucleation histories imply that distinct causal patches percolate at slightly different times. Patches which percolate the latest undergo the longest vacuum-domination stage and as a consequence develop large overdensities triggering their collapse into primordial black holes (PBHs). We derive an analytical approximation for the probability of a patch to collapse into a PBH as a function of the 1stOPT duration, β−1, and deduce the expected PBH abundance. We find that 1stOPTs which take more than 15% of a Hubble time to complete (β/H≲7) produce observable PBHs. Their abundance is independent of the duration of the supercooling phase, in agreement with the de Sitter no hair conjecture.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Dark sink enhances the direct detection of freeze-in dark matter
Authors: Bhattiprolu Prudhvi N. , McGehee Robert , Pierce Aaron
Published: August 2024

We describe a simple dark sector structure which, if present, has implications for the direct detection of dark matter (DM); . A dark sink transports energy density from the DM into light dark-sector states that do not appreciably contribute to the DM density. As an example, we consider a light, neutral fermion ψ which interacts solely with DM χ via the exchange of a heavy scalar Φ. We illustrate the impact of a dark sink by adding one to a DM freeze-in model in which χ couples to a light dark photon γ′ which kinetically mixes with the Standard Model (SM) photon. This freeze-in model (absent the sink) is itself a benchmark for ongoing experiments. In some cases, the literature for this benchmark has contained errors; we correct the predictions and provide them as a public code. We then analyze how the dark sink modifies this benchmark, solving coupled Boltzmann equations for the dark-sector energy density and DM yield. We check the contribution of the dark sink ψ’s to dark radiation; consistency with existing data limits the maximum attainable cross section. For DM with a mass between MeV−O(10  GeV), adding the dark sink can increase predictions for the direct detection cross section all the way up to the current limits.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Electronic structure of noncentrosymmetric B20 compound HfSn and tuning of multifold band-crossing points
Authors: Milosavljević Dijana , Rosner Helge , Johansson Annika
Published: August 2024

We present a detailed theoretical study of the electronic structure of hafnium tin HfSn crystallizing in a B20 structure, renowned for the diversity of physical and peculiar topological properties. The chiral crystal structure of these materials protects multifold band crossings located at high-symmetry points. We employ density functional methods to reveal basic features of the band structure and Fermi surface topology of HfSn, on top of which a tight-binding model is built. The compound exhibits a fourfold band crossing pinned at the Γ point. We investigate routes that can shift such crossings towards the Fermi level, offering a way to possibly tune the compound's properties. Specifically, we show that the energy position of the fourfold crossing can be easily manipulated via external perturbations such as strain and pressure. Considering that this point carries a topological charge larger than 1, such tuning is of great importance. We anticipate that the approach presented in the current study can be utilized to investigate symmetry-protected crossings in a wide class of materials.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Bulk-edge correspondence recovered in incompressible geophysical flows
Authors: Onuki Yohei , Venaille Antoine , Delplace Pierre
Published: August 2024

Bulk-edge correspondence is a cornerstone in topological physics, establishing a connection between the number of unidirectional edge modes in physical space and a Chern number, an integer that counts phase singularities of the eigenmodes in parameter space. In continuous media, violation of this correspondence has been reported when some of the frequency wave bands are unbounded, resulting in weak topological protection of chiral edge states. Here, we propose a strategy to reestablish strong bulk-edge correspondence in incompressible rotating stratified flows, taking advantage of a natural cutoff frequency provided by density stratification. The key idea involves the introduction of an auxiliary field to handle the divergence-free constraint. This approach highlights the resilience of internal coastal Kelvin waves near vertical walls under varying boundary conditions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Resetting as a swift equilibration protocol in an anharmonic potential
Authors: Goerlich Rémi , Keidar Tommer D. , Roichman Yael
Published: August 2024

We present and characterize a method to accelerate the relaxation of a Brownian object between two distinct equilibrium states. Instead of relying on a deterministic time-dependent control parameter, we use stochastic resetting to guide and accelerate the transient evolution. The protocol is investigated theoretically, and its thermodynamic cost is evaluated with the tools of stochastic thermodynamics. Remarkably, we show that stochastic resetting significantly accelerates the relaxation to the final state. This stochastic protocol exhibits energetic and temporal characteristics that align with the scales observed in previously investigated deterministic protocols. Moreover, it expands the spectrum of stationary states that can be manipulated, incorporating new potential profiles achievable through experimentally viable protocols.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Magnonic Otto thermal machine
Authors: Vidal-Silva Nicolas , Peña Francisco J. , Troncoso Roberto E. , Vargas Patricio
Published: August 2024

We propose a quasistatic magnon-based Otto thermal machine in two-dimensional (2D) magnetic insulators. The thermodynamical cycles are engineered by exposing a magnon spin system to thermal baths at different temperatures and tuning the Dzyaloshinskii-Moriya (DM) interaction. We find that a thermal gas of magnons converts a fraction of heat into energy in the form of work, where the efficiency is maximized for specific values of DM, reaching the corresponding Carnot efficiency. We witness a positive to negative net work transition during the cycle that marks the onset of a refrigeratorlike behavior. The work produced by the magnonic Otto engine enhances the magnon chemical potential. The last enables a spin accumulation that might result in the pumping of spin currents at the interfaces of metal-magnet heterostructures. Our work opens possibilities for the efficient leverage of conventional two-dimensional magnets.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Topological order in higher composites
Authors: Babaev Egor
Published: August 2024

We introduce the concept of composite topological order in multicomponent systems. In such a state topological order appears only in higher-than-usual composites, with no topological order in elementary fields. We propose that such a state can be realized in Bose-Fermi mixtures in ultracold atoms.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Crystal structures, phase transition, and Hirshfeld surface analyses of the bromide and chloride congeners of aqua[2,4,6-tris(pyridin-4-yl)-1,3,5-triazine]zinc(II) halide
Authors: Dailey Maegan , Jackson Eric W. , Ramadhar Timothy R.
Published: August 2024

During the course of exploring crystallization conditions in generating metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) for use in the crystalline sponge method, two discrete metal–organic complexes, namely, aqua[2,4,6-tris(pyridin-4-yl)-1,3,5-triazine]zinc(II) bromide, [Zn(C18H12N6)(H2O)]Br2, and aqua[2,4,6-tris(pyridin-4-yl)-1,3,5-triazine]zinc(II) chloride, [Zn(C18H12N6)(H2O)]Cl2, were encountered. Structures in the orthorhombic space group Pnma (No. 62) for the bromide congener at 299 K and the chloride congener at 100 K were obtained. A phase transition for the bromide congener occurred upon cooling from 299 to 100 K, yielding a crystal polymorph with four domains that exhibits monoclinic P21/m space-group symmetry (No. 11), which arises from conformational changes. The main intramolecular contacts that contribute to the crystal packing in all observed structures are H...H, Halide...H/H...Halide, C...H/H...C, and N...H/H...N. Intramolecular hydrogen bonding between the Zn-bound water and non-Zn-bound pyridyl N atoms is a prominent feature within the three-dimensional networks. Aromatic π-stacking between the non-Zn-bound pyridine rings and contacts involving the halide ligands further stabilize the crystal packing.
Personalized human-computer interaction as an information source for ride-hailing platforms: behavior intention perspective
Authors: Li Jing , Ling Rui , Sun Fangjie , Zhou Jinming , Cai Haiya
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper adds risk perception and personalized human-computer interaction to the technology acceptance model, and further analyzes the impact of personalized unmanned ride hailing on users' behavior intention.

Design/methodology/approach

This study model was tested using a sample of 299 social media users from China and we apply structural equation modeling (SEM) to build the theoretical framework.

Findings

Our results show that perceived ease of use has a greater positive impact on behavior intention compared to perceived usefulness. In addition, we find that the impact of risk perception on behavior intention is manifested in a number of ways, including people’s risk perception of the new technology, people’s risk perception of data leakage, and so on. Finally, we find that users’ personalized human-computer interaction has a positive effect on their perceived ease of use, perceived usefulness, and behavior intention.

Originality/value

Our study contributes to illuminate the pivotal role of tailoring the human-computer interface to individual preferences and needs for ride-hailing platforms from the perspective of behavior intention.
Transcending the DEI contradictions: a Bourdieusian path to social justice in international business
Authors: Vangeli Anastas
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to critically discuss and reorient the diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) debate toward the idea of addressing and rectifying the pervasive structural inequalities that DEI, in its undiluted form rooted in social justice (SJ), aims to combat. Drawing on Bourdieu, the study first examines the diffusion and contestation of DEI into international business (IB). It then proposes a Bourdieu-inspired agenda to advance the transposition of SJ principles into IB.

Design/methodology/approach

The study interpretively reconstructs the process of DEI’s ideational diffusion. It examines how the interplay between ideas and field dynamics in IB shapes ideational processes and outcomes.

Findings

In response to rising global inequalities – to which multinational enterprises (MNEs) have significantly contributed – SJ movements have propelled DEI into the wider social and political arena, including corporate boardrooms. Within IB, a diluted version of DEI – IB-DEI – emerged as a paradigm to improve MNEs’ performance, but failed to address underlying structural inequalities. As the social impacts, utility and legitimacy of DEI have been challenged, the DEI debate has come to a flux. The study proposes conceptual and contextual extension of DEI within IB and advancing socially engaged research and practice that help reinforce DEI’s core SJ purpose – tackling structural inequalities.

Originality/value

The study is one of the few to openly tackle SJ-IB contradictions on DEI, while advancing the application of Bourdieu to critical studies of IB.
A knowledge-based directional multicriteria framework with defuzzified subset of preferences for sustainable banking strategy analysis
Authors: Nepomuceno Thyago Celso Cavalcante , de Carvalho Victor Diogho Heuer , Poleto Thiago , Figueiredo Ciro José Jardim
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This article presents a methodological application of decision support with the purpose of identifying and better aligning sustainable banking strategies. Those strategies are based on best practices declared by employees and conducted during efficient periods affecting sustainable production, the health quality of clients, the organization’s profitability and social impact on the local community across different sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach involves a two-phase process: first, it employs directional data envelopment analysis (DEA) to benchmark knowledge based on employee opinions gathered through interviews to evaluate strategies related to banking services; then, using the best-worst method and ELECTRE outranking incorporating elements of fuzzy set theory based on an experienced decision-maker’s input, sustainable banking strategies are ranked according the different perspectives for leveraging outputs from the first step.

Findings

The outcomes yield a ranking of strategies, emphasizing the crucial role of technology in banking services while highlighting the need for more agile services to ensure customer satisfaction. This underscores the necessity of aligning with the market perspective, as fintech companies are reshaping the socio-technological-environmental landscape of financial services.

Research limitations/implications

The research combined DEA and multicriteria analysis in the context of the banking sector, providing a comprehensive and analytically robust approach translated as a decision-making framework for promoting sustainability by aligning operational efficiency and social responsibility. These tools can guide banks in adopting more sustainable practices that benefit the institution, society and the environment.

Practical implications

Decisions in the banking sector encompass a wide array of concepts, from internal technical factors to customer feedback on service processes and offerings. The proposed approach considers decision analysis in complex environments, and the application developed in this study considered not only internal banking activity-oriented concepts but also the preferences of human agents developing them and the managerial perspective focused on issues involving components associated with sustainability.

Originality/value

By integrating DEA with multicriteria analysis, this study paves the way for a more efficient, environmentally conscious and socially responsible management scenario in the Brazilian banking sector. This research assesses operational efficiency and offers a comprehensive framework for selecting and implementing sustainable practices in the banking sector.
The provision of accounting ethics education in Ethiopian accounting programs: a structuration theory perspective
Authors: P. Ishwara , Mekonnen Naod
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the provision of accounting ethics education in Ethiopian accounting programs through structuration theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study methodology was used, and data were collected through semistructured interviews with faculty members, practitioners and regulatory bodies. The interview transcripts were analyzed using thematic analysis. Accounting curricula were also analyzed to triangulate and support the findings.

Findings

The study revealed a significant gap in the status of accounting ethics education, primarily attributed to a misunderstanding of its importance. While faculty initiatives and student interest have partially mitigated this gap, systemic challenges such as rigid curricula, a lack of awareness and commitment, resource constraints and limited stakeholders’ support persisted. A combined approach to accounting ethics education is required to foster ethical behavior. Hence, the structuration theory highlighted how meanings, power dynamics and norms and values constrained and enabled the provision of accounting ethics education.

Research limitations/implications

The study emphasized the need for stakeholders to influence policymakers’ perceptions regarding the significance of accounting ethics education. The study also provided empirical support for structuration theory. Future research should involve cross-cultural comparisons and explore the ethical behavior of accounting professionals using diverse research designs to highlight the gaps and inform effective educational interventions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the theoretical application of structuration theory in accounting ethics education. It underscores the critical role of comprehensive curricular reforms, stakeholder engagement and resource allocation.
Impact pathways: putting workers front and center in addressing workforce shortages in intellectual disability care
Authors: Peters Vincent , Frielink Noud , van Leest Carry , Heerkens Luciënne , Embregts Petri
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Addressing workforce shortages in operations and supply chain management (OSCM) necessitates adaptive measures by both individuals and organizations, with a pivotal role played by Human Resources (HR). This impact pathway delves into how healthcare organizations can effectively manage workforce shortages, informed by HR practices. Through an in-depth understanding of healthcare organizations, the authors pinpoint challenges and concerns linked to workforce shortages. Pathways are proposed to stimulate future OSCM research and collaboration, leveraging innovative and creative methods from the HR field.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from various representatives from healthcare organizations to explore how healthcare organizations for people with intellectual disabilities address the challenges stemming from contemporary workforce shortages.

Findings

Three pathways were outlined to address workforce shortages in healthcare supply chains, utilizing intellectual disability care as a representative example. These pathways comprise optimizing the potential of the current workforce, illustrating innovative HR practices for enhancing their performance, and proposing strategies for retaining these valuable workers.

Originality/value

Despite its potential, the HR domain remains relatively underdeveloped within OSCM research. The authors show how HR practices can potentially mitigate impending workforce shortages. While utilizing intellectual disability care as a representative example, this paper proposes that the impact pathways identified can be extended to various other healthcare settings.
An analysis of automakers navigating an evolving semiconductor landscape
Authors: Garcia José Augusto Campos , Arvidsson Ala , Jonsson Patrik
Published: August 2024

Purpose

In this paper, we investigate the coevolution of the supply network and procurement strategies in the context of semiconductors and electronics for the automotive industry over 3 decades. We aim to explain how procurement strategy interrelates with changes in supply network structure and what the implications of a hub-centric structure network structure are for procurement in supply.

Design/methodology/approach

We collected in-depth primary and secondary data that stretched back to 1996 from a leading automotive European original equipment manufacturer (OEM) and its network. Using social network analysis (SNA), we identified OEMs’ procurement focus and mapped the evolution of the supply network, the links in the network, and the environmental forces impacting the strategies and the network.

Findings

Our findings describe the supply network for semiconductor and electronic components to the automotive industry. The findings suggest that a focus on cost can lead to a Tier 1-centric network structure with many tiers that can fail to assure supply or capture innovation when the external environment is marked by high uncertainty. In such situations, increasing complexity by creating more links in the network can improve transparency and contribute to supply assurance and innovation.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that managers should consider the role of the supply network in selecting their strategy to attain objectives of cost, innovation, and supply assurance.

Originality/value

This paper presents empirical-based insights into the automotive semiconductor and electronic component supply chain (SC), the unexpected implications of hub-centric supply networks, and the use of SNA in the SC in context.
Explaining the role of integrated monetary banking system on transparency of interest-free institutions transactions: a case study at interest-free institutions of Iran
Authors: Leylabi Mehrdad , Malekan Sara , Majidpour Mehdi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to explain that what main characteristics financial technologies should have so that lead to improve the transparency of institutions and whether the integrated monetary banking system deployed in free-interest institutions has affected the transparency of these institutions in terms of those characteristics or not? In this study, the integrated monetary banking system will be studied subject to implementation of the Shafagh project.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the literature review and the experts' opinions, the principles of the research questions were explained. Then, according to the dimensions of the research conceptual model, questions related to research questions were considered as the item for analysis in the modeling of structural equations. In the next step, 278 employees and managers of interest-free institutions were selected, by simple random sampling method, to answer the questionnaire. Data collected is analyzed by using structural equations method.

Findings

The results of the analysis indicates that the impact of the dimensions of strategic, technical, organizational and cultural factors – identified as the main characteristics of a financial system in this study – on the transparency of the transactions of the interest-free institutions is significant.

Research limitations/implications

The results were obtained by focusing on the qualitative factors and also on the culture on free-interest institutions.

Practical implications

By investigating the issues and factors that the developers, consultants and institutions’ managers need to address and also giving a conceptual model, this study assists managers and generally financial institutions in developing an integrated banking system in a way that will be more likely to improve transparency in those organizations.

Originality/value

This study pioneers a comprehensive conceptual model, surpassing prior research that focused on isolated criteria. This novel approach enriches understanding of core banking systems' impact on financial transparency. This groundbreaking study uniquely focuses on free-interest institutions, traditionally presumed to be transparent but never before studied.
Perceived fairness in the peer assessment process: a focus on Iranian architecture students in design studio education
Authors: Heidari Erfan , Saghafi Mahmoud Reza
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This qualitative case study explores the challenges that architecture students encounter in grasping the concept of fair PA. The study also delves into the students' viewpoints on this matter and the strategies they utilize to navigate it.

Design/methodology/approach

Around 29 architecture students took part in the PA process. Data was gathered by observing PA sessions and conducting interviews with students. The data was then analyzed using the thematic method.

Findings

The study uncovers fairness challenges from the perspective of architecture students, such as concerns regarding collusion, power dynamics within friend groups, limitations of participatory culture, and overwhelming responsibility. The study suggests that a multistage PA process can be an effective approach to addressing fairness challenges. Furthermore, it sheds light on the obstacles that architecture students face in comprehending fairness and their viewpoints and tactics regarding fairness during PA.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that increasing students' engagement in learning activities during the critique and assessment process in the DS can enhance their understanding of fairness in PA and boost their satisfaction with final course grades.

Originality/value

This study investigates the relationship between architecture students' engagement and assessment fairness, by focusing on the role of perceived fair PA within design studio settings.
Understanding collaboration beyond contracting: the relationship between inter-organizational collaboration and hard/soft control
Authors: Frid Kristina , Funck Elin K. , Glenngård Anna H.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to extend insights about the relationship between inter-organizational collaboration and approaches to control from the perspective of decision-makers. We investigate the relationship between approaches to control and intended forms of integration between actors responsible for solving the complex problem of integrated person-centered care for elderly with diverse and significant needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical study is based on a content analysis of contractual agreements. We have analyzed a total of 118 collaboration agreements and associative documents between all Swedish regions and municipalities.

Findings

The study shows that intended integration is subject to remarkable variation in intended forms of inter-organizational collaboration in this Swedish case. The paper illustrates that decision-makers’ intentions with proposed collaboration in each given context are important for the chosen approach to control. Regardless of intended forms of integration, our study suggests that an imminent soft approach to control is expressed alongside limited signs of hard control. Various forms of intended integration can be managed by the two approaches simultaneously insofar as the agreements appear to have a two-sided purpose.

Originality/value

Our paper proposes an empirically driven taxonomy of intended forms of integration initiatives. The taxonomy provides resources for studies about how collaboration can be managed when it is stipulated by national legislation but local self-governance gives actors considerable freedom to decide on how to organize and manage services. By presenting the taxonomy and relating this to approaches of control, our iterative study builds on and adds to a recent stream of research arguing that the relationship between collaboration and approaches to control may by fuzzier and more complex than originally thought.
Digital technology adoption, workforce agility and digital technology outcomes in the context of the banking industry of India
Authors: Muduli Ashutosh , Choudhury Anuva
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The rapid adoption of digital technology forced the leaders to explore and examine the drivers and facilitators capable of enhancing the bank's performance. This paper empirically aims to examine the role of technology acceptance and workforce agility in digital technology adoption in the banking industry. Furthermore, this research examines the mediating role of workforce agility between digital technology acceptance and digital technology outcome.

Design/methodology/approach

Influenced by the Attitude–Behavior–Outcome framework, this survey research has been designed to collect data from both high-level executives and low-level executives working in the banking sector undertakings of India. The research adopted a two-step procedure for testing theoretical models using SPSS-AMOS, Version 27. Hayes PROCESS macro (Version 4.3.1; 2023) technique was executed to test the mediation.

Findings

The result proved that the banker's acceptance of digital technology positively impacted banks' performance. Furthermore, this study proved that workforce agility has a favorable, significant mediating influence between digital technology acceptance and digital technology outcome suggesting banks design and implement suitable management policies and practices to enhance the technology acceptance mindset of the bankers and promote workforce agility for higher customer relationships and performance.

Originality/value

Being the first-ever research to examine the role of workforce agility, this study proved its mediating effect on effective digital transformation.
Unveiling local community initiatives and participation in safeguarding cultural heritage through digital spaces
Authors: Rachman Yeni Budi
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to describe the involvement of the local community in initiating and carrying out cultural heritage-safeguarding efforts through digital spaces. This study also describes the collaboration between one local community and a library to preserve cultural heritage.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a literature review to analyze and discuss the involvement and initiatives of the local community in preserving cultural heritage. This paper also describes how one local community uses digital spaces to direct preservation efforts.

Findings

Digital spaces offer opportunities for young people to participate in cultural heritage preservation efforts in unique and captivating ways. Examples of effective strategies are conducting online discussions, disseminating information and promoting events about cultural heritage through digital platforms (social media and websites), and carrying out electronic clipping.

Originality/value

This study supports the active involvement of local community in participating in the preservation of cultural heritage as well as raising awareness to support the preservation of cultural heritage through digital spaces. This study promotes inclusivity and concludes that local community plays a vital role in safeguarding cultural heritage.
Generative artificial intelligence and academic writing: an analysis of the perceptions of researchers in training
Authors: Pereira Ricardo , Reis Ingrid Weingärtner , Ulbricht Vânia , Santos Neri dos
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the relationship between academic writing and generative artificial intelligence (AI).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is characterized as exploratory and descriptive, with a qualitative approach. Two approaches were used: the first, a narrative review of the literature with a systematic search from which a data collection stage was carried out using asynchronous interviews by means of an online questionnaire.

Findings

The results indicate that generative AI should be seen as a complementary tool for creative and critical academic writing. The data collected also highlighted issues related to academic dishonesty and the new type of plagiarism – plagiarism made possible by technologies – as well as issues of authorship and legitimacy of work carried out with AI and the loss of reflective and critical thinking and creativity.

Research limitations/implications

The considerable increase in resources using AI in all dimensions of human life.

Practical implications

The impact that the use of generative AIs can have on the creation of knowledge and the dissemination of scientific research.

Social implications

The impact that the use of generative AIs can have on the creation of knowledge and on the dissemination of scientific research.

Originality/value

The need for academia to anticipate the use of AI in academic writing and to incorporate its benefits into this process, especially considering researchers in training.
Understaffed and beleaguered: a national survey of chiefs of police about the post-George Floyd era
Authors: del Pozo Brandon , Rouhani Saba , Clark M.H. , Atkins Danielle , Andraka-Christou Barbara , Martins Kaitlin F.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

The 2020 murder of George Floyd resulted in challenges to policing in the United States of America, but little is known about how police chiefs perceive them. At the same time, chiefs of police wield great influence over public perceptions of crime and disorder, the state of their profession, the laws and policies that govern the conduct of police officers and municipal public safety budgets. It is therefore critical to understand how police perceive the changes to their profession post-Floyd.

Design/methodology/approach

This study surveyed a randomly selected national sample of 276 municipal chiefs of police. Items probed resignations, recruitment, efforts to defund departments, community support, officer morale, suspects’ likelihood of obeying lawful orders and career risks that could inhibit proactive police work. It examined associations between perceptions and Census Bureau region, length of tenure as chief, size of police department, population served and the urban or rural designation of the jurisdiction.

Findings

Chiefs overwhelmingly reported recruiting qualified candidates had become much harder, and the present risks of proactive police work encourage inaction. Chiefs of agencies in the Northeast perceived more challenges than those in the South. Respondents with more years of experience were less likely to perceive the current situation as dire. Approximately 13.5% reported an attempt to defund their department, 56.8% of which yielded some success. Our study suggests an increase in the number and scope of challenges perceived by chiefs of police. Results vary by region and police chief years of experience.

Originality/value

This study provides researchers and practitioners with the perspectives of chiefs about the post-Floyd era that influence their decisions, policies and initiatives.
A practical path planning method for optimal repair paths between multiple small-size defects
Authors: Li Yongfeng , Pan Yaotong , Yang Wenqiang , Xu Xiaochang , Xu Junpeng , Zhang Lei
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to solve the problem of repair path planning between multiple small-size defects in the field of additive manufacturing (AM) repair by using Python-based ant colony algorithm (ACO). The optimal parameter combination scheme is obtained by discussing the influencing factors of parameters in the ACO.

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of the information heuristic factor α, the expected heuristic factor ß and the pheromone volatile factor ρ on the simulation results were investigated by designing a three-factor and three-level orthogonal experiment. The fast convergence of ACO in finding the optimal solution of multiple small-size defect repair path problem is proved by comparing the simulation results with those of genetic algorithm (GA) on the same data set.

Findings

The ACO can effectively solve the repair path planning problem between multiple small-size defects by optimizing the parameters. In the case of 50 defect locations, the simulation results of the ACO with optimized parameters are 159.8 iterations and 3,688 average path lengths, while the GA has 4,027.2 average path lengths under the same data set and the same number of iterations, and by comparison, it is proved that the ACO can find the optimal solution quickly in the small-size defects repair path planning problem, which greatly improves the efficiency of defect repair.

Originality/value

The parameter-optimized ACO can be quickly applied to the planning problem of repair paths between multiple small-size defects in the field of AM repair, which can better improve the defect repair efficiency and reduce the waste of resources.
Exploring customer engagement on Facebook marketplace for second-hand clothing
Authors: Sharma Rashmini , Sharma Shavneet , Singh Gurmeet
Published: August 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore customers’ second-hand clothing purchases and their engagement on the Facebook marketplace.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is developed, building upon the online second-hand shopping motivation (OSSM) scale. Data gathered from 409 respondents was analysed using covariance-based structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results highlight that economic, convenience, ideological motivations and environmental concerns impact customers’ purchase intention. Conversely, status consumption was found to impede customers’ purchase intentions. Notably, the elements of social media engagement, including consumption, contribution and creation, demonstrated significance as a consequence of customers’ second-hand clothing purchase intention.

Originality/value

This study’s findings contribute to the knowledge encompassing sustainable fashion consumption, information systems and second-hand social media shopping. It uniquely explores customer behaviours related to second-hand clothes shopping on the Facebook marketplace by building upon the OSSM scale. These findings offer valuable insights, showcasing the determinants that can increase customer-centric social media engagement. These results inform online retailers on Facebook marketplace about sustainable practices, aligning with UN Sustainable Development Goals 12, 13 and 8, to promote a green global economy.
Genetic diversity matters for restoration of a threatened saltmarsh plant in harsh environments
Authors: Zhang Qun , Qiu Shiyun , Li Xincheng , Xu Xiao , Zhu Yi , Cui Xinhong , He Qiang , Li Bo
Published: August 2024

While genetic diversity is theorised to increase the restoration success of degraded plant populations, previous studies examining its impacts on restoration outcomes have yielded mixed results.

We hypothesise that the importance of genetic diversity for the performance of plants targeted for restoration increases with environmental stress and varies with specific plant traits related to different plant successive life stages. To test this, we conducted a fully factorial common garden experiment, crossing salinity and genetic diversity under low‐ and high‐nitrogen conditions on the growth and reproduction of Scirpus mariqueter, a threatened endemic saltmarsh plant in the Yangtze Estuary.

The impacts of genetic diversity varied across stress gradients and metrics. Under high stress (high salinity, low nutrients), greater diversity enhanced reproductive traits such as clonal growth and seed production, but not under low stress. Plant growth traits showed no diversity effects regardless of stress.

Synthesis: Our results highlight the importance of considering intraspecific genetic diversity in ecological restoration and help explain the context‐dependent effects of diversity.
Utilising co‐design to develop a lived experience informed personal safety tool within a mental health community rehabilitation setting
Authors: Francis Anna , Le Amily , Adams‐Leask Karen , Procter Nicholas
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Mental health personal safety tools aim to promote a recovery focus and empower an individualised approach to consumer care. These clinical tools are predominantly utilised in acute mental health settings with a person during or straight after a crisis. There is currently a gap in the literature regarding the preparation of personal safety tools in non‐acute mental health settings. This descriptive article discusses the learnings and outcomes from a co‐designed project that aimed to develop a personal safety tool suitable for a community mental health rehabilitation setting.

Methods

Seven people with lived experience engaging within a mental health community‐based rehabilitation service were recruited through convenience sampling to participate in the co‐design project. A focus group approach was utilised during four group meetings to develop a personal safety tool template. Experiences and ideas about safety planning were transcribed during meetings and thematic analysis extracted key themes. Five steps underpinned the co‐design process that included identifying the need, establishing the co‐design group, planning, design and development, and review and closure.

Consumer and community involvement

Consumer involvement commenced at step two of the co‐design process. The completed personal safety tool was designed with consumer input and review.

Findings

The personal safety tool consisted of nine intervention components. Four key themes emerged from focus group meetings that informed the content of the tool: (i) ensuring the personal safety tool is individualised and meaningful, (ii) promoting exploration of personal strengths and interests, (iii) enabling opportunities to learn self‐management skills, and (iv) treating the personal safety tool as a dynamic and adaptable tool.

Conclusion

Findings suggest that a personal safety tool targeted to a mental health community‐based rehabilitation setting should have an individualised and preventative focus to mental health care. Embedding co‐design principles can support opportunities for meaningful consumer engagement and establishing consumer and clinician partnerships.
Unearthing the behavioural factors influencing commodity futures contracts adoption in agriculture—A systematic literature review
Authors: Wever Hendrik , Michels Marius , Musshoff Oliver
Published: August 2024

Farmers' adoption of commodity futures and options contracts (CFCs) in agriculture shows substantial variation across different regions. Sociodemographic and farm characteristics fail to fully account for these observed differences. Hence, research focussing on understanding the behavioural factors that influence the decision to adopt CFCs is gaining popularity. Although past research has addressed these behavioural factors, a comprehensive synthesis is needed. This study provides a systematic literature review to systematically categorise, taxonomically standardise and summarise behavioural factors influencing farmers' decisions to adopt CFCs. Results are reported via the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) scheme. In the systematic literature review, 41 usable studies were identified. The identified behavioural factors were classified into eleven core behavioural factors and grouped into three categories: dispositional, social and cognitive. In addition, a systematic literature map was created, which shows behavioural factors' inclusion frequency and share of being statistically significant in the identified studies. These approaches offer a framework for researchers and practical insights for trainers, policymakers and farmers. The results could be used, for instance, to develop strategies to promote more informed decision among farmers regarding the use of CFCs.
Determinants of IPO Overpricing
Authors: Rossovski Jacqueline , Lucey Brian , Helbing Pia
Published: August 2024

This paper outlines the phenomenon of negative first‐day IPO returns. Using a comprehensive sample of IPOs in the United States between 2000 and 2020, we find that 21.61% exhibit negative first‐day returns, making this a common feature of the US IPO market. The key findings show that the IPO mechanism is important. A larger deal size and proportion of over‐allotment shares reduces the probability of IPO overpricing, while downward offer price adjustments increase the likelihood of negative first‐day returns. Despite distinct differences, the analysis reveals shared characteristics between IPO underpricing and overpricing, providing nuanced insights into IPO pricing. Neither market timing nor agency issues significantly affect IPO overpricing.
Association between mandatory bundled payments and changes in socioeconomic disparities for joint replacement outcomes
Authors: Kilaru Austin S. , Liao Joshua M. , Wang Erkuan , Zhao Yueming , Zhu Jingsan , Ng Grace , Shirk Torrey , Cousins Deborah S. , Kanter Genevieve P. , Ibrahim Said , Navathe Amol S.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To determine whether mandatory participation by hospitals in bundled payments for lower extremity joint replacement (LEJR) was associated with changes in outcome disparities for patients dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid.

Data Sources and Study Setting

We used Medicare claims data for beneficiaries undergoing LEJR in the United States between 2011 and 2017.

Study Design

We conducted a retrospective observational study using a differences‐in‐differences method to compare changes in outcome disparities between dual‐eligible and non‐dual eligible beneficiaries after hospital participation in the Comprehensive Care for Joint Replacement (CJR) program. The primary outcome was LEJR complications. Secondary outcomes included 90‐day readmissions and mortality.

Data Extraction Methods

We identified hospitals in the US market areas eligible for CJR. We included beneficiaries in the intervention group who received joint replacement at hospitals in markets randomized to participate in CJR. The comparison group included patients who received joint replacement at hospitals in markets who were eligible for CJR but randomized to control.

Principal Findings

The study included 1,603,555 Medicare beneficiaries (mean age, 74.6 years, 64.3% women, 11.0% dual‐eligible). Among participant hospitals, complications decreased between baseline and intervention periods from 11.0% to 10.1% for dual‐eligible and 7.0% to 6.4% for non‐dual‐eligible beneficiaries. Among nonparticipant hospitals, complications decreased from 10.3% to 9.8% for dual‐eligible and 6.7% to 6.0% for non‐dual‐eligible beneficiaries. In adjusted analysis, CJR participation was associated with a reduced difference in complications between dual‐eligible and non‐dual‐eligible beneficiaries (−0.9 percentage points, 95% CI −1.6 to −0.1). The reduction in disparities was observed among hospitals without prior experience in a voluntary LEJR bundled payment model. There were no differential changes in 90‐day readmissions or mortality.

Conclusions

Mandatory participation in a bundled payment program was associated with reduced disparities in joint replacement complications for Medicare beneficiaries with low income. To our knowledge, this is the first evidence of reduced socioeconomic disparities in outcomes under value‐based payments.
UnTWISTing the BALS: A study of predictive accuracy of clinical scoring tools for testicular torsion identification in adults
Authors: Schultz‐Swarthfigure Chase T , Kelly Anne‐Maree
Published: August 2024

Objective

Testicular torsion is an uncommon but time‐critical condition in EDs. If the diagnosis is missed or delayed, there are significant medicolegal and patient fertility implications. Scoring tools are advocated for use in children but have limited validation in adults. The aim of the present study was to explore the predictive accuracy of the testicular torsion scoring tools, Testicular Workup for Ischemia and Suspected Torsion (TWIST) and Boettcher Alert Score (BALS), in adult patients with a final ED diagnosis of torsion.

Methods

All patients with an ED working diagnosis of testicular torsion were identified retrospectively. Data collected from digital medical records included demographics, processes of care and clinical information. The outcome of interest was the predictive performance of the scores for a confirmed diagnosis of testicular torsion as adjudicated by an urologist or a surgeon.

Results

Fifty‐four patients had complete clinical data, of whom 13 had confirmed torsion. The TWIST score had a high area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC) of 0.89 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.78–0.999) with a score of 6–7 corresponding to a positive predictive value (PPV) of 80% (95% CI = 38–96%). The BAL score had an AUROC of 0.79 (95% CI = 0.69–0.92). PPV for a score ≥2 was 38% (95% CI = 22–56%).

Conclusion

A high TWIST score correlates to a high likelihood of torsion and can inform surgical decision‐making in the absence of US.