bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying Opportunities for Collaboration Across the Social Sciences to Reach the 10-10-10: A Multilevel Approach
Authors: Vincent Wilson , Sevelius Jae , Lippman Sheri A. , Linnemayr Sebastian , Arnold Emily A.
Published: October 2019

Background:

The national and global strategy to combat HIV, often referred to as the “90-90-90,” aims to diagnose 90% of people living with HIV, get 90% of those diagnosed onto antiretroviral treatment (ART), and achieve viral suppression in 90% of those on ART. The remaining 10-10-10 who will be undiagnosed, not on ART, or not virally suppressed, include vulnerable persons and populations most affected by social determinants of health. Given their foci on the social determinants of health at the individual, social, and structural levels, social scientists are in a prime position to help reach the 10-10-10. A potentially effective way for social scientists to achieve this goal is to examine the issues that affect the 10-10-10 using a multilevel framework, to understand at what levels their own approaches fit within such a multilevel framework, and to seek intentional collaborations with other social scientists who may work at different levels but whose approaches may complement their own within multilevel collaborations.

Approach:

The present article describes how a multilevel framework can guide collaboration across disciplines within the social sciences toward the common goal of reaching the 10-10-10.

Conclusions:

Within a multilevel framework, social scientists can work collaboratively to address the needs of individuals among the 10-10-10 within the social and structural contexts (eg, social norms, stigma, poverty, and barriers to care) that affect their health. Such an approach draws on the unique strengths and approaches of different social-science disciplines while also building capacity for individuals most affected by social determinants of health.
Association Between Diagnoses of Chronic Noncancer Pain, Substance Use Disorder, and HIV-Related Outcomes in People Living With HIV
Authors: Denis Cecile M. , Morales Knashawn H. , Wu Qufei , Metzger David S. , Cheatle Martin D.
Published: October 2019

Background:

Chronic pain is common in people living with HIV (PLWH). Few studies have evaluated the association between the diagnoses of chronic pain, substance use disorder (SUD), and HIV-related outcomes in clinical settings over a 10-year period.

Methods:

Using electronic medical records, the study described psychiatric diagnoses, pain medication, and HIV-related variables in PLWH and examined the factors associated with pain diagnosis and HIV-related outcomes.

Results:

Among 3528 PLWH, more than one-third exhibited a chronic pain diagnosis and more than one-third a psychiatric disorder. Chronic pain diagnosis has been associated with SUD and mood and anxiety disorders and occurred before SUD or psychiatric disorders about half of the time. Opioids have been commonly prescribed for pain management, more often than nonopioid analgesic, without any change in prescription pattern over the 10-year period. A dual diagnosis of pain and SUD has been associated with more psychiatric disorders and had a negative impact on the pain management by requesting more health care utilization and higher frequency of both opioid and nonopioid medication prescriptions. Chronic pain and SUD had a negative impact on ART adherence. SUD but not chronic pain has been associated with an unsuppressed HIV viral load.

Conclusions:

In the current intertwining opioid prescription and opioid epidemic, opioids are still commonly prescribed in PLWH in HIV care. A diagnosis of chronic pain and/or SUD worsened the HIV-related outcomes, emphasizing the potential risk of the HIV epidemic. These findings called for a better coordinated care program in HIV clinics.
Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences
Authors: Stankovski Tomislav , Pereira Tiago , McClintock Peter V. E. , Stefanovska Aneta
Published: October 2019

Dynamical systems are widespread, with examples in physics, chemistry, biology, population dynamics, communications, climatology and social science. They are rarely isolated but generally interact with each other. These interactions can be characterized by coupling functions—which contain detailed information about the functional mechanisms underlying the interactions and prescribe the physical rule specifying how each interaction occurs. Coupling functions can be used, not only to understand, but also to control and predict the outcome of the interactions. This theme issue assembles ground-breaking work on coupling functions by leading scientists. After overviewing the field and describing recent advances in the theory, it discusses novel methods for the detection and reconstruction of coupling functions from measured data. It then presents applications in chemistry, neuroscience, cardio-respiratory physiology, climate, electrical engineering and social science. Taken together, the collection summarizes earlier work on coupling functions, reviews recent developments, presents the state of the art, and looks forward to guide the future evolution of the field.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences’.
Dynamical disentanglement in an analysis of oscillatory systems: an application to respiratory sinus arrhythmia
Authors: Rosenblum M. , Frühwirth M. , Moser M. , Pikovsky A.
Published: October 2019

We develop a technique for the multivariate data analysis of perturbed self-sustained oscillators. The approach is based on the reconstruction of the phase dynamics model from observations and on a subsequent exploration of this model. For the system, driven by several inputs, we suggest a dynamical disentanglement procedure, allowing us to reconstruct the variability of the system's output that is due to a particular observed input, or, alternatively, to reconstruct the variability which is caused by all the inputs except for the observed one. We focus on the application of the method to the vagal component of the heart rate variability caused by a respiratory influence. We develop an algorithm that extracts purely respiratory-related variability, using a respiratory trace and times of R-peaks in the electrocardiogram. The algorithm can be applied to other systems where the observed bivariate data can be represented as a point process and a slow continuous signal, e.g. for the analysis of neuronal spiking.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences’.
Structure learning in coupled dynamical systems and dynamic causal modelling
Authors: Jafarian Amirhossein , Zeidman Peter , Litvak Vladimir , Friston Karl
Published: October 2019

Identifying a coupled dynamical system out of many plausible candidates, each of which could serve as the underlying generator of some observed measurements, is a profoundly ill-posed problem that commonly arises when modelling real-world phenomena. In this review, we detail a set of statistical procedures for inferring the structure of nonlinear coupled dynamical systems (structure learning), which has proved useful in neuroscience research. A key focus here is the comparison of competing models of network architectures—and implicit coupling functions—in terms of their Bayesian model evidence. These methods are collectively referred to as dynamic causal modelling. We focus on a relatively new approach that is proving remarkably useful, namely Bayesian model reduction, which enables rapid evaluation and comparison of models that differ in their network architecture. We illustrate the usefulness of these techniques through modelling neurovascular coupling (cellular pathways linking neuronal and vascular systems), whose function is an active focus of research in neurobiology and the imaging of coupled neuronal systems.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences'.
Recent advances in coupled oscillator theory
Authors: Ermentrout Bard , Park Youngmin , Wilson Dan
Published: October 2019

We review the theory of weakly coupled oscillators for smooth systems. We then examine situations where application of the standard theory falls short and illustrate how it can be extended. Specific examples are given to non-smooth systems with applications to the Izhikevich neuron. We then introduce the idea of isostable reduction to explore behaviours that the weak coupling paradigm cannot explain. In an additional example, we show how bifurcations that change the stability of phase-locked solutions in a pair of identical coupled neurons can be understood using the notion of isostable reduction.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences’.
Coupling in complex systems as information transfer across time scales
Authors: Paluš Milan
Published: October 2019

Complex systems such as the human brain or the Earth's climate consist of many subsystems interacting in intricate, nonlinear ways. Moreover, variability of such systems extends over broad ranges of spatial and temporal scales and dynamical phenomena on different scales also influence each other. In order to explain how to detect cross-scale causal interactions, we review information-theoretic formulation of the Granger causality in combination with computational statistics (surrogate data method) and demonstrate how this method can be used to infer driver-response relations from amplitudes and phases of coupled nonlinear dynamical systems. Considering complex systems evolving on multiple time scales, the reviewed methodology starts with a wavelet decomposition of a multi-scale signal into quasi-oscillatory modes of a limited bandwidth, described using their instantaneous phases and amplitudes. Then statistical associations, in particular, causality relations between phases or between phases and amplitudes on different time scales are tested using the conditional mutual information. As an application, we present the analysis of cross-scale interactions and information transfer in the dynamics of the El Niño Southern Oscillation.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences’.
Anti-phase collective synchronization with intrinsic in-phase coupling of two groups of electrochemical oscillators
Authors: Sebek Michael , Kawamura Yoji , Nott Ashley M. , Kiss István Z.
Published: October 2019

The synchronization of two groups of electrochemical oscillators is investigated during the electrodissolution of nickel in sulfuric acid. The oscillations are coupled through combined capacitance and resistance, so that in a single pair of oscillators (nearly) in-phase synchronization is obtained. The internal coupling within each group is relatively strong, but there is a phase difference between the fast and slow oscillators. The external coupling between the two groups is weak. The experiments show that the two groups can exhibit (nearly) anti-phase collective synchronization. Such synchronization occurs only when the external coupling is weak, and the interactions are delayed by the capacitance. When the external coupling is restricted to those between the fast and the slow elements, the anti-phase synchronization is more prominent. The results are interpreted with phase models. The theory predicts that, for anti-phase collective synchronization, there must be a minimum internal phase difference for a given shift in the phase coupling function. This condition is less stringent with external fast-to-slow coupling. The results provide a framework for applications of collective phase synchronization in modular networks where weak coupling between the groups can induce synchronization without rearrangements of the phase dynamics within the groups.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences’.
Inferring the dynamics of rising radical right-wing party support using Gaussian processes
Authors: Blomqvist Björn R. H. , Sumpter David J. T. , Mann Richard P.
Published: October 2019

The use of classical regression techniques in social science can prevent the discovery of complex, nonlinear mechanisms and often relies too heavily on both the expertise and prior expectations of the data analyst. In this paper, we present a regression methodology that combines the interpretability of traditional, well used, statistical methods with the full predictability and flexibility of Bayesian statistics techniques. Our modelling approach allows us to find and explain the mechanisms behind the rise of Radical Right-wing Populist parties (RRPs) that we would have been unable to find using traditional methods. Using Swedish municipality-level data (2002–2018), we find no evidence that the proportion of foreign-born residents is predictive of increases in RRP support. Instead, education levels and population density are the significant variables that impact the change in support for the RRP, in addition to spatial and temporal control variables. We argue that our methodology, which produces models with considerably better fit of the complexity and nonlinearities often found in social systems, provides a better tool for hypothesis testing and exploration of theories about RRPs and other social movements.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Coupling functions: dynamical interaction mechanisms in the physical, biological and social sciences’.
The Golgi Glycoprotein MGAT4D is an Intrinsic Protector of Testicular Germ Cells From Mild Heat Stress
Authors: Akintayo Ayodele , Liang Meng , Bartholdy Boris , Batista Frank , Aguilan Jennifer , Prendergast Jillian , Sundaram Subha , Stanley Pamela
Published: October 2019

Male germ cells are sensitive to heat stress and testes must be maintained outside the body for optimal fertility. However, no germ cell intrinsic mechanism that protects from heat has been reported. Here, we identify the germ cell specific Golgi glycoprotein MGAT4D as a protector of male germ cells from heat stress. Mgat4d is highly expressed in spermatocytes and spermatids. Unexpectedly, when the Mgat4d gene was inactivated globally or conditionally in spermatogonia, or mis-expressed in spermatogonia, spermatocytes or spermatids, neither spermatogenesis nor fertility were affected. On the other hand, when males were subjected to mild heat stress of the testis (43°C for 25 min), germ cells with inactivated Mgat4d were markedly more sensitive to the effects of heat stress, and transgenic mice expressing Mgat4d were partially protected from heat stress. Germ cells lacking Mgat4d generally mounted a similar heat shock response to control germ cells, but could not maintain that response. Several pathways activated by heat stress in wild type were induced to a lesser extent in Mgat4d[−/−] heat-stressed germ cells (NFκB response, TNF and TGFβ signaling, Hif1α and Myc genes). Thus, the Golgi glycoprotein MGAT4D is a novel, intrinsic protector of male germ cells from heat stress.
ROGUE: an entropy-based universal metric for assessing the purity of single cell population
Authors: Liu Baolin , Li Chenwei , Li Ziyi , Ren Xianwen , Zhang Zemin
Published: October 2019

Single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) is a versatile tool for discovering and annotating cell types and states, but the determination and annotation of cell subtypes is often subjective and arbitrary. Often, it is not even clear whether a given cluster is uniform. Here we present an entropy-based statistic, ROGUE, to accurately quantify the purity of identified cell clusters. We demonstrated that our ROGUE metric is generalizable across datasets, and enables accurate, sensitive and robust assessment of cluster purity on a wide range of simulated and real datasets. Applying this metric to fibroblast and B cell datasets, we identified additional subtypes and demonstrated the application of ROGUE-guided analyses to detect true signals in specific subpopulations. ROGUE can be applied to all tested scRNA-seq datasets, and has important implications for evaluating the quality of putative clusters, discovering pure cell subtypes and constructing comprehensive, detailed and standardized single cell atlas.
Regenerative capacity inDrosophilaimaginal discs is controlled by damage-responsive, maturity-silenced enhancers
Authors: Harris Robin E. , Stinchfield Michael J. , Nystrom Spencer L. , McKay Daniel J. , Hariharan Iswar K.
Published: October 2019

Like tissues of many organisms,Drosophilaimaginal discs lose the ability to regenerate as they mature. This loss of regenerative capacity coincides with reduced damage-responsive expression of multiple genes needed for regeneration. Our previous work showed that two such genes,wgandWnt6, are regulated by a single damage-responsive enhancer, which becomes progressively inactivated via Polycomb-mediated silencing as discs mature. Here we explore the generality of this mechanism, and identify numerous damage-responsive, maturity-silenced (DRMS) enhancers, some near genes known to be required for regeneration such asMmp1, as well as near genes that we now show function in regeneration. Using a novel GAL4-independent tissue ablation system we characterize two DRMS-associated genes,apontic(apt), which curtails regeneration and CG9752/asperous (aspr), which promotes it. This mechanism of suppressing regeneration by silencing damage-responsive enhancers at multiple loci can be partially overcome by reducing activity of the chromatin regulatorextra sex combs(esc).
Functionally Nb graded inconel 718 alloys fabricated by laser melting deposition: mechanical properties and corrosion behavior
Authors: Ni Xiaoqing , Zhang Liang , Wu Wenheng , Zhu Dexiang , Kong Decheng , Dong Chaofang , Zhu Guoliang
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Laser melting deposition (LMD) is an advanced additive manufacturing (AM) technology without powder waste, and nickel-based alloys with different Nb contents were created one-time by adjusting the ratio of mixed powders via a dual-feed system. Here, the authors provide a systematic report on the effects of the Nb content on the microstructure, Laves phase segregation and mechanical properties of as-received LMD nickel-based alloys. The effects of the Nb content on the microstructure, precipitation evolution and mechanical properties of the subsequent heat-treated LMD samples are also discussed in this paper.

Design/methodology/approach

Thus, the present research aims to obtain a better understanding of the effect of Nb content on the microstructural and mechanical properties of the as-received LMD Inconel 718 alloys through high-throughput sample fabrication. The microstructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy, electron back-scattered diffraction and transmission electron microscopy methods. The mechanical properties were obtained from compressive tests and nano-indentation tests. Electrochemical tests, including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarizations, were carried out to evaluate the durability of the Inconel 718 alloys. Results can provide a factual basis for future applications of the functionally graded by AM technology.

Findings

The grain size of the as-received LMD Inconel 718 alloys decreased with the Nb content. The Laves phase distribution at the macro level was relatively uniform and the Laves phase exhibited a 1.5-fold nano-hardness compared with the matrix. The strength improvement for the as-received LMD Inconel 718 alloys with Nb content was attributed to grain refinement and enhancement of the Laves phase in terms of both hardness and content. Meanwhile, the corrosion resistance increased with the increase of the Nb content, especially for the pitting potential, which was attributed to the optimization of carbide precipitates due to the strong affinity between niobium and carbon.

Originality/value

The results provide a factual basis for the Nb content effect in LMD nickel-based alloys, and this method can greatly promote the development of new materials. The authors believe that this study makes a significant contribution to the literature and is suitable for publication.
Accepting or rejecting the label: how gay employees cope with harassment at work
Authors: Liyanage Dilusha Madushanka , Adikaram Arosha
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how gay employees, as labeled deviants, cope with heterosexist harassment at work in an Asian culture of hegemonic heterosexual masculinity, using the modified labeling theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Using qualitative research approach, in-depth interviews were carried out with 16 self-identified gay employees.

Findings

Results revealed how the coping strategies of gay employees, in the face of harassment, are entwined with the labeling and stigma leading to diverse and complex coping strategies. Several broader coping strategies were thus identified based on whether the participants accepted the label of deviance and stigma and whether they were open about their sexuality. These broader coping strategies are support seeking, confrontation, inaction, quitting and, stigma and labeling avoidance strategies. Under these broader strategies, there were also sub strategies such as seeking social support, organizational support, legal support the support of the wise, as well as secrecy and social withdrawal.

Originality/value

These findings will advance the knowledge in coping strategies of heterosexist harassments at work as well as knowledge in harassment of gay employees, in hegemonic heterosexual cultures.
The moderating effect of e-bank structure on French consumers’ trust
Authors: Kaabachi Souheila , Ben Mrad Selima , Fiedler Anne
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how an e-bank’s structure (click-and-mortar bank vs internet-only bank) influences the consumer’s evaluation of website quality, and to identify the most significant website features that influence online trust and lead to consumer loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach

A non-probability convenience sample of 476 online bank users (248 click-and-mortar and 230 internet-only bank users) was used in this study. An online survey was conducted. Structural equation modeling and multi-group analysis were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Findings suggest that e-trust and e-loyalty levels depend on the e-banking structure. Click-and-mortar-based online users were found to have more trust and loyalty in their online banks than internet-only bank users. Findings demonstrate that website features are evaluated differently according to the e-bank structure. Information design and interactivity are very important for internet-only banks, and their effect on online trust seems to be higher. On the other hand, website personalization was evaluated as more important for click-and-mortar banks and had a stronger impact on online trust.

Practical implications

To promote the trustworthiness of their websites and retain customers, internet-only banks should make the experience more tangible for users by developing a pleasant online experience. Personalization is an important variable that can enhance the consumer’s engagement with the brand. Click-and-mortar banks should enhance their interactivity by providing a continuous and consistent experience across different channels of distribution whether online or in-person and provide more interactive tools on their websites.

Originality/value

This study contributes significantly to the marketing research literature related to consumer trust as well as to the electronic banking literature. It is the first study to compare customers of click-and-mortar banks with customers of internet-only banks when evaluating website features. It also explores the impact of the e-bank model on the relationship between website features and online trust and customer loyalty.
Fuzzy Markov development for buried transportation bridges
Authors: Gharehbaghi Koorosh , McManus Kerry , Robson Kathryn , Eves Chris , Myers Matt
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the Fuzzy Markov development for assessing the structural integrity of buried transportation bridges. In doing so, the appropriateness of Fuzzy Markov will be assessed, leading to the subsequent model.

Design/methodology/approach

This research will utilize the Fuzzy Markov techniques as the conceptual framework. Such methodology is further supported via the utilization and evaluation of 30 buried transportation bridges using the developed Fuzzy Markov model.

Findings

Subsequently, through a developed Fuzzy Markov model, this research found that as the basis of structural resilience, specific matrices for age-dependent transition probability can be compiled using conditional survival probabilities in the various structural states; as the basis of structural integrity, specific environmental and economic schemes can also be established based on inspection intervals, intervention systems and failure phases; exact inspection and maintenance intervals can be scheduled to further prolong an asset’s life; and clear and early warning signs can also be formulated for immediate intervention when the structural integrity of the asset are indeed compromised.

Originality/value

The gap within the literature currently surrounds the limitation of computational analysis for some buried structures such as bridges. Specifically, to streamline such evaluation and regimes, a Fuzzy Markov is developed and reviewed.
The Airbnb phenomenon: the resident’s perspective
Authors: Richards Steven , Brown Lorraine , Dilettuso Alessandra
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Media and academic attention on Airbnb focuses on user experiences, implications for traditional accommodation establishments and negative sociocultural impacts. The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of Barcelona residents who have been impacted by the proliferation of Airbnb rentals.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach was adopted, involving semi-structured interviews with residents of Barcelona.

Findings

It highlights the problem of unregistered Airbnb rentals throughout the city, carrying implications for the gentrification of neighbourhoods, the displacement of local residents and anti-social guest behaviour. This study points to a consequent rise in anti-tourist feeling. It also reveals that the authentic experience promised by the sharing economy is illusory.

Originality/value

This paper presents a model that highlights a clash between the vaunted benefits of the sharing economy for hosts and tourists and the negative implications for a city’s residents.
Husband’s international migration
Authors: Shwe Win Win , Jampaklay Aree , Chamratrithirong Aphichat , Thaweesit Suchada
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the effects of the husband’s migration on wives’ decision-making autonomy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study setting is Magway Region of central Myanmar where poverty has driven adult males to migrate overseas. The study hypothesizes that the absence of husbands due to international migration leads to changes in the roles and decision-making power of left-behind wives. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in 22 villages of Pakkoku district, Magway Region, using the multi-stage random sampling method. The study sample included 205 migrant’s wives and 196 non-migrant’s wives.

Findings

The international migration of husbands has a strong and positive impact on left-behind wives’ autonomy independent of individual characteristics and household social and economic status. In addition, the findings show that the number of children and household wealth are positively associated with women’s autonomy, whereas household size shows a negative association.

Research limitations/implications

It is possible that there will be unmeasured selection factors such as unsuccessful migration as it might influence both husbands’ migration status and women’s autonomy. Cross-sectional data also invite a question about the causal relationship. For example, it might be possible that women with high autonomy may be more likely to encourage their husband to work abroad. So, the relationship might be the other way around. A further longitudinal study is also needed to describe detail explanation about the causal influence of left-behind women’s autonomy.

Originality/value

Successful international migration has a impact not only on women’s autonomy but also on household economic status in central rural Myanmar.
The effect of talent management processes on knowledge creation
Authors: Mohammed Atheer Abdullah , Baig Abdul Hafeez , Gururajan Raj
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a theoretical model and investigate the relationship between talent management (TM) processes and knowledge creation (KC) in Australian public and private universities. This is because of the pragmatic advantages for organisations that focus on talents and knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopted the mixed-methods design. The sample comprised 23 individuals for the qualitative study and 286 individuals for the quantitative survey questionnaire, all conducted in nine public and private universities in Australia.

Findings

The qualitative outcomes were utilised to develop the quantitative survey statement. These outcomes are based on a three-stage method of thematic analysis. The core conclusion of the quantitative study is that there is a significantly positive influence on TM processes (TMPs) on KC.

Research limitations/implications

The principle limitation of this study was the scope. It only targeted one country (Australia), one state (Queensland) and a part of the higher education sector (the university).

Practical implications

This research designed a quantitative instrument of TMPs and KC for the Australian educational institutions. The instrument is severely designed and comprehensively conceptualised utilising social, excellent, performance, strategic, behavioural and developmental concepts within TMPs with innovative, informational and technological concepts underlining KC within the Australian public and private universities in Queensland.

Originality/value

The study adds value to both TM and knowledge management literature through designing a conceptual model that links both of these variables in one tool regarding the university sector.
Career crescendo
Authors: Sharp Ryan
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Research surrounding psychological capital (PsyCap) continues to expand as scholars and organizational leaders look to the strengths of positive organizational behavior (POB) and its effects in the workplace. Although previous research underscores connections between PsyCap and various organizational outcomes, there remains little research on its actual development. The purpose of this paper is to determine the efficacy of a six-week work-site intervention in improving PsyCap. The study included 49 individuals (n=32 assigned to the treatment group and n=17 to the comparison group). Using a pretest/posttest experimental design, the study showed that the intervention was efficacious in helping employees to develop greater PsyCap.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was part of a larger mixed methods design aimed at determining the efficacy of a work-site intervention in improving the PsyCap of employees. This design was chosen because it maximizes the strengths of both qualitative and quantitative methods while minimizing each of their weaknesses (Creswell and Plano Clark, 2007; Tashakkori and Teddlie, 1998). The specific mixed methods design implemented was the explanatory design using the participant selection model. This is a two-phase, sequential approach which began with a quantitative analysis and then drew upon those data to determine individuals who will be asked to participate in a follow-up study.

Findings

The purpose of this study was to determine the impact of a work-site intervention on the participants’ PsyCap in determining its developmental capacity. Previous studies have demonstrated strong correlations between PsyCap and many of the positive outcomes managers and supervisors desire for their employees –high productivity, low absenteeism, positive organizational citizenship, etc. (Luthans et al., 2013; Youseff and Luthans, 2007). With the results of the present study showing significantly greater improvement for the treatment group than their counterparts in the comparison group, it demonstrates that PsyCap can be developed and, consequently, these positive outcomes can accessed by a focused work-site intervention.

Originality/value

This paper builds on work already being done but focuses on the following significant gap in the literature: Can PsyCap be developed using work-site interventions? This study provides a compelling answer to that question and thus pushes the study of POB forward in its development.
Cyborgs as frontline service employees: a research agenda
Authors: Garry Tony , Harwood Tracy
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify and explore potential applications of cyborgian technologies within service contexts and how service providers may leverage the integration of cyborgian service actors into their service proposition. In doing so, the paper proposes a new category of “melded” frontline employees (FLEs), where advanced technologies become embodied within human actors. The paper presents potential opportunities and challenges that may arise through cyborg technological advancements and proposes a future research agenda related to these.

Design/methodology/approach

This study draws on literature in the fields of services management, artificial intelligence, robotics, intelligence augmentation (IA) and human intelligence to conceptualise potential cyborgian applications.

Findings

The paper examines how cyborg bio- and psychophysical characteristics may significantly differentiate the nature of service interactions from traditional “unenhanced” service interactions. In doing so, the authors propose “melding” as a conceptual category of technological impact on FLEs. This category reflects the embodiment of emergent technologies not previously captured within existing literature on cyborgs. The authors examine how traditional roles of FLEs will be potentially impacted by the integration of emergent cyborg technologies, such as neural interfaces and implants, into service contexts before outlining future research directions related to these, specifically highlighting the range of ethical considerations.

Originality/value

Service interactions with cyborg FLEs represent a new context for examining the potential impact of cyborgs. This paper explores how technological advancements will alter the individual capacities of humans to enable such employees to intuitively and empathetically create solutions to complex service challenges. In doing so, the authors augment the extant literature on cyborgs, such as the body hacking movement. The paper also outlines a research agenda to address the potential consequences of cyborgian integration.
Role of commercial friendship, initiation and co-creation types
Authors: Busser James A. , Shulga Lenna V.
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce and test customer perceptions of four types of value co-creation (VCC), explore VCC a priori condition of relatedness, operationalized as commercial friendship, examine customer voluntary participation in VCC through initiation (customer vs company), and the influence of these factors on relational outcomes of VCC: satisfaction, loyalty and trust.

Design/methodology/approach

A scenario-based 2×2×4 experimental design was set in a destination resort context: weak vs strong commercial friendship, customer vs company co-creation initiation and four types of VCC. The 248 resort guests were equally and randomly assigned to experimental conditions. Multivariate analysis of variance and repeated measures analysis of variance was utilized.

Findings

Results demonstrated that customers perceived VCC processes differently. Co-creation of experience and co-recovery outcomes had significantly higher relational outcomes when compared to co-creation of marketing and co-innovation. Experiencing stronger commercial friendship, as customer–company relatedness and being invited to co-create resulted in stronger customer relational outcomes.

Originality/value

The core theoretical contribution of this study is the comparative analysis of customer perceptions of four distinctly different types of VCC: co-innovation, co-creation of experience, co-creation of marketing and co-recovery. A priori conditions of relatedness and co-creation initiation were established as antecedents of VCC processes among customers and service providers. When a service provider initiates VCC, it can positively affect customers’ relational outcomes of satisfaction, loyalty and trust.
Assessing consumers’ motivations for purchasing remanufactured products
Authors: Gan Qinghua , Chen Shumei
Published: October 2019

Purpose

Environmental crises and resource shortage have been matters of concern worldwide particularly, as the beginning of the twenty-first century. Remanufacturing can be one of the best approaches to promoting the development of circular economy and realizing the efficient use of resources. However, research studies indicate that the general public still remains unaware of the merits of remanufactured products. Hence, investigating main motivations of consumers to purchase remanufactured products is certainly worth exploring. The purpose of this paper is to find out consumers’ key motivations to purchase remanufactured products. A new multi-attributes decision-making method based on prospect theory (PT) is conducted.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, according to the prior literature, 12 main factors that influence consumers to purchase a remanufactured product are selected. Then, the single valued triangular neutrosophic numbers and triangular neutrosophic weighted geometric averaging operator are applied to rank them. Secondly, a multi-attribute decision-making method with PT is used to evaluate the utilities of new and remanufactured products, respectively. Based on the utilities, consumers’ preferred choice between the new and remanufactured products can be elicited.

Findings

The proposed method has been applied to a real survey. The results demonstrate that the proposed method is not only capable of recognizing the consumers’ key motivations for purchasing a remanufactured product but also able to deal with the ranking of the new and remanufactured products.

Originality/value

The contributions of this paper are threefold. Firstly, this paper attempts to explore the main motivations that encourage consumers to purchase a remanufactured product, instead of a new one. Secondly, the proposed method is established based on PT, taking consumers’ psychological behavior into consideration, which can obtain a relatively reasonable result. Thirdly, it can enrich the remanufacturing literature, serving as a guideline for consumers when purchasing a remanufactured product. In addition, this paper can help the remanufacturers make pricing and production decisions where necessary.
Regression and labyrinthine diagnosis – a case report
Authors: Tay Jing Ling , Lijo Alias , Wen Bixue , Zachariah Susan , Lal Manu
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illustrate a lady with regression and disassociation with multiple psychiatric symptoms. This case highlights the limitations of descriptive psychopathology and the usefulness of psychodynamic psychopathology in explaining and managing the mental phenomena.

Design/methodology/approach

Case report: the patient R is a 29-year-old lady. She has been known to the mental health institution since 14 years old. Over the next 15 years, she was admitted 27 times. She had been diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, depression, mental retardation, autism spectrum disorder and dissociative identity disorder. She has been subjected to long-standing abuse by her mother.

Findings

Discussion: labyrinthine diagnosis – placing a diagnosis on R proves to be challenging. When R presents with psychosis like and depressive symptoms, she is labelled as having a primary psychotic disorder and mood disorder, respectively. When R regresses to the P or the non-verbal individual persona, she is deemed to have mental retardation and autism spectrum disorder. Furthermore, R’s intelligence quotient was tested to be 65 at 14 years old. However, the intelligence quotient test was not consistent with her level of functioning during her non regressed state and therefore not considered reliable. Explosive and emotional outbursts and a positive family history of bipolar disorder rendered her to be diagnosed with the same. The multiple personas seem classical of dissociative personality disorder. However, the personas seem to exist on a continuum and are not independent of each other. Upon regression, R seems to be fixated at the oral stage. R also reported amnesia of events especially her emotional outbursts, while she was displaying her third persona. Dissociation could have rendered her unable to remember these events.

Originality/value

While the use of descriptive psychopathology is pragmatic and has the obvious advantage of being free from the burden of seeking explanation of the psychopathological phenomenon in a theoretical construct such as the psychodynamic framework, not all patients can be awarded a meaningful diagnosis using such an approach. This case report exemplifies that psychiatric presentation in some patients refuses to be neatly subjected to a useful psychiatric diagnosis using descriptive psychopathology as the diagnostic tool resulting in a confusing array of diagnoses, with each diagnosis representing an isolated facet of the psychological world of the patient while ignoring the rest. Explanatory models of psychopathology such as psychodynamic psychopathology still remain relevant in such cases for both understanding and explanation of the mental phenomena, and devising appropriate intervention strategies.
Recovery colleges and dementia courses – a scoping survey
Authors: Lowen Christine , Birt Linda , West Juniper
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand how dementia is represented within current UK Recovery College courses and how people with dementia are involved with such courses.

Design/methodology/approach

A scoping survey was developed with seven multiple choice questions. Information was collected to find out: How many Colleges are currently offering dementia courses; have previously offered courses or plan to start offering courses; how they have developed their courses; who delivers them; who can attend; and how long courses have been running. Individual Recovery Colleges could leave contact details if they were interested in collaborating on future research projects. UK Recovery Colleges were identified using a published list (Anfossi, 2017) supplemented with internet searching. 86 e-mail messages were sent to Recovery Colleges inviting Leads/Managers to complete the survey through an electronic link.

Findings

Of the 28 (32.6 per cent) Recovery Colleges who completed the survey, 11 reported to be currently offering dementia courses, while eight planned to start doing so. Six Recovery Colleges stated they were not currently offering dementia courses, have not done so previously and have no current plans to.

Research limitations/implications

The survey results indicate variability in provision of UK Recovery College courses for people with dementia, and raise further questions about the way the courses are used, their acceptability and usefulness.

Originality/value

This service evaluation highlights the variability in what is offered, which is an important step in understanding the current service provision.
Does managerial ability affect the quality of environmental financial disclosure?
Authors: Chen Jason , Chen Jennifer
Published: October 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether managerial ability affects the quality of corporate environmental financial disclosures.

Design/methodology/approach

Regression analysis is used to examine the association between managerial ability and the quality of corporate environmental financial disclosures.

Findings

The results of primary empirical tests find a negative association between projection errors of corporate environmental capital expenditures and managerial ability. Overall results suggest that (1) managers appear to be equally capable of making relatively accurate projections of total corporate capital expenditures, and (2) managers with higher managerial ability are capable of estimating the projection amounts that appear to be significant, yet do not deviate substantially to what they intend to spend in the subsequent year(s) for legitimation purposes.

Research limitations/implications

The data collected and analyzed include only publicly traded companies in the environmentally sensitive industries in the USA; therefore, the results should not be generalized to non-US listed, private and non-publicly traded businesses.

Practical implications

Results of this study provide practical implications for stakeholders in their decision-making. For instance, understanding how different levels of managerial ability affect corporate environmental disclosures quality assists the board of directors in their evaluations of the performance of current top management. Furthermore, when contemplating new laws, governmental agencies and legislators can consider how managerial ability might affect the likelihood of environmentally sensitive businesses to comply with full disclosure and other reporting requirements.

Social implications

Information regarding top management’s ability to carry out socially acceptable environmental practices is very valuable for investors who are interested in socially responsible and green investing.

Originality/value

This study contributes to and links between two research streams: managerial ability in management literature and environmental financial disclosure literature. This is the first study that empirically tests whether the managerial ability is a determinant of the quality of corporate environmental financial disclosures.