bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Geometric Approach to Polynomial and Rational Approximation
Authors: Bishop Christopher J , Lazebnik Kirill
Published: April 2024

We strengthen the classical approximation theorems of Weierstrass, Runge, and Mergelyan by showing the polynomial and rational approximants can be taken to have a simple geometric structure. In particular, when approximating a function $f$ on a compact set $K$, the critical points of our approximants may be taken to lie in any given domain containing $K$, and all the critical values in any given neighborhood of the polynomially convex hull of $f(K)$.
Cyanobacterial bloom affects structural and functional succession of microbial communities in urban wetland sediments in the Qinghai Plateau
Authors: Wu Yi , Wei Xiaoyan , Mao Xufeng , Song Xiuhua , Wei Xijie , Xie Shunbang , Yu Hongyan , Zhang Lele , Yang Yongxiao
Published: April 2024

Algal blooms significantly affect microbial communities in wetland ecosystems. However, little is known about the succession of sediment microbial communities during algal blooms. This study aimed to investigate the temporal patterns of sediment bacterial community structure and function succession during algal blooms (March to May 2022) with high-throughput sequencing technology. To this end, algal blooms were divided into the bloom stage (BS), decomposition stage (DS) and end stage (ES). The results showed that: (i) The algal blooms were dominated by Microcystis species within Cyanobacteria. Both phytoplankton abundance and biomass reached the peak in the BS, with 45.78 × 105 cells/L and 5.97 mg/L, respectively. (ii) The alpha diversity indices of the sediment bacterial community showed a monotonically increasing trend, with the lowest value in the BS. Cyanobacterial blooms reduced the relative abundance of Actinobacteria and Chloroflexi, and raised that of Firmicutes, Proteobacteria and Bacteroidetes. (iii) Cyanobacterial blooms remarkably decreased the complexity of the co-occurrence network of the sediment bacterial community, which resisted extreme environmental conditions in the BS and DS by increasing positive relationships. (iv) Mantel test showed that phytoplankton biomass, T, dissolved oxygen and organic carbon had significant effects on the sediment bacterial community. The results of this study are important for the ecological management of algal blooms through microorganisms.
When to Text? How the Timing of Text Message Contacts in Mixed-Mode Surveys Impacts Response
Authors: Christian Leah Melani , Sun Hanyu , Slowinski Zoe , Hansen Christopher , Mcroy Martha
Published: April 2024

Using multiple modes of contact has been found to increase survey participation over a single contact mode. Text messaging has emerged as a new mode to contact survey participants in mixed-mode survey designs, especially for surveys that include web and/or phone data collection. However, it is unclear how to best combine text messages with mailings and other outreach contacts to improve response rates and data quality. To explore the effectiveness of using text messaging as a contact mode, we conducted a full factorial experiment that varies the sequencing of text messages with mailing contacts (early versus late reminder) and the time text messages were sent (morning versus afternoon). The experiment was implemented in a follow-up wave of a mixed-mode nationally representative longitudinal survey with two sample groups (Cooperative versus Other Respondents). For Cooperative Respondents, text reminders seemed to be effective at increasing completion rates, with the early text reminder being somewhat more effective than the late text reminder, at least early in the field period. For Other Respondents, text invitations were effective at improving the completion rate, but effects diminished quickly once the invitation letter was sent. Additionally, the early text reminder appears to be more effective than the late text reminder at increasing completion rates for Other Respondents. The sequencing of text messages did not affect data quality across sample groups or substantially impact nonresponse. The time of day the text messages were sent did not affect any of the outcome measures examined.
Olaparib and niraparib as maintenance therapy in patients with newly diagnosed and platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer: A single-center study in China
Authors: Wang Dengfeng , Shi Xunwei , Pei Jiao , Zhang Can , Peng Liping , Zhang Jie , Zheng Jing , Peng Chunrong , Huang Xiaoqiao , Liu Xiaoshi , Liu Hong , Zhang Guonan
Published: April 2024

Background:

Poly adenosine-diphosphate-ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors (PARPi) have been approved to act as first-line maintenance (FL-M) therapy and as platinum-sensitive recurrent maintenance (PSR-M) therapy for ovarian cancer in China for >5 years. Herein, we have analyzed the clinical-application characteristics of olaparib and niraparib in ovarian cancer-maintenance therapy in a real-world setting to strengthen our understanding and promote their rational usage.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review identified patients with newly diagnosed or platinum-sensitive recurrent ovarian cancer, who received olaparib or niraparib as maintenance therapy at Sichuan Cancer Hospital between August 1, 2018, and December 31, 2021. Patient medical records were reviewed. We grouped and analyzed patients based on the type of PARPi they used (the olaparib group and the niraparib group) and the line of PARPi maintenance therapy (the FL-M setting and the PSR-M setting). The primary endpoint was the 24-month progression-free survival (PFS) rate.

Results:

In total, 131 patients (olaparib: n = 67, 51.1%; niraparib: n = 64, 48.9%) were enrolled. Breast cancer susceptibility genes (BRCA) mutations (BRCAm) were significantly less common in the niraparib group than in the olaparib group [9.4% (6/64) vs. 62.7% (42/67), P <0.001], especially in the FL-M setting [10.4% (5/48) vs. 91.4% (32/35), P <0.001]. The 24-month PFS rates in the FL-M and PSR-M settings were 60.4% and 45.7%, respectively. In patients with BRCAm, the 24-month PFS rates in the FL-M and PSR-M settings were 62.2% and 72.7%, respectively.

Conclusions:

Olaparib and niraparib were effective in patients with ovarian cancer without any new safety signals except for skin pigmentation. In patients with BRCAm, the 24-month PFS of the PARPi used in the PSR-M setting was even higher than that used in the FL-M setting.
FACE-Q for Measuring Patient-reported Outcomes after Facial Skin Cancer Surgery: Cross-cultural Validation
Authors: Ottenhof Maarten J. , Dobbs Thomas D. , Veldhuizen Inge , Harrison Conrad J. , Marges Michelle , Lee Erica H. , Hoogbergen Maarten M. , van der Hulst René R.W.J. , Pusic Andrea L. , Sidey-Gibbons Chris J.
Published: April 2024

Background:

Facial skin cancer and its surgical treatment can affect health-related quality of life. The FACE-Q Skin Cancer Module is a patient-reported outcome measure that measures different aspects of health-related quality of life and has recently been translated into Dutch. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the translated version in a Dutch cohort using modern psychometric measurement theory (Rasch).

Methods:

Dutch participants with facial skin cancer were prospectively recruited and asked to complete the translated FACE-Q Skin Cancer Module. The following assumptions of the Rasch model were tested: unidimensionality, local independence, and monotonicity. Response thresholds, fit statistics, internal consistency, floor and ceiling effects, and targeting were assessed for all scales and items within the scales. Responsiveness was tested for the “cancer worry” scale.

Results:

In total, 259 patients completed the preoperative questionnaire and were included in the analysis. All five scales assessed showed a good or sufficient fit to the Rasch model. Unidimensionality and monotonicity were present for all scales. Some items showed a local dependency. Most of the scales demonstrate ordered item thresholds and appropriate fit statistics.

Conclusions:

The FACE-Q Skin Cancer Module is a well-designed patient-reported outcome measure that shows psychometric validity for the translated version in a Dutch cohort, using classical and modern test theory.
Assessing Student-Reported Perceptions of Prerequisite Usefulness in Preparation for Didactic Physician Assistant Education
Authors: Souza Lauren T. , Geiser Casey P. , Ryan Shiann N. , Pitchford Kandi D. , Azel Mark A. , Miller Paul
Published: April 2024

Introduction

To gain admittance to a physician assistant (PA) school, applicants must complete program-specific prerequisite courses and experiences. The lack of standardization contributes to complexity, expense, and limits diversity. This research assessed current didactic PA students’ perceptions of prerequisite courses, course delivery methods, and direct patient care (DPC) experiences to determine which were perceived as the most useful in preparation for didactic PA education.

Methods

An online cross-sectional survey was sent to eligible PA students across the United States. The survey collected opinions on the usefulness of commonly required prerequisite courses, course delivery methods, and DPC experiences. Collected data underwent statistical analysis and qualitative analysis for open-response questions.

Results

A total of 527 students completed the survey. Greater than 50% reported prerequisite courses in science and psychology as well as speech, ethics, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR), medical ethics, medical terminology, and nutrition “prepared them well” or “extremely well.” The most frequently recommended educational delivery method was “in person.” The DPC experiences reported to best prepare students were Medical Assistant, Certified Nursing Assistant, and Scribe. The reported recommended number of DPC hours was 1000 to 1499. Chi-square tests for courses that prepared students “well” and “extremely well” revealed that in-person delivery had a statistically significant association with anatomy, physiology, ethics, CPR, medical ethics, and Spanish.

Discussion

These significant findings should be considered by PA programs when evaluating their requirements for admission. Furthermore, PA education associations should consider universal requirements to reduce applicant barriers, complexity, and expense, which may lead to improved diversity.
Perceptions of U.S. and U.K. Incident Reporting Systems: A Scoping Review
Authors: Gampetro Pamela J. , Nickum Anne , Schultz Celeste M.
Published: April 2024

Objective

The aim of the study is to evaluate the extent, range, and nature of the literature that concerns healthcare providers’ perceptions following the use of incident reporting systems (IRSs) in the United States (U.S.) and the United Kingdom (U.K.). Literature was compared describing providers’ perceptions of reporting patient safety incidents using IRSs from healthcare systems built on public, private, for-profit, or nonprofit insurers in the U.S., with providers’ perceptions using an IRS within a universal government supported healthcare system in the U.K.

Methods

This scoping review searched literature from 4 electronic databases, producing 4863 articles between January 2010 to March 2023.

Results

Eleven U.S. and 8 U.K. articles met the inclusion criteria. Providers described system and individual barriers when using IRSs. The U.S. providers described more concerns regarding individual barriers (fear of punitive response or retaliation, feel incapable or shamed, unsure of what constitutes a patient safety incident, and concerned about litigation) than providers in the U.K. Both countries had similar responses regarding system barriers, except for U.K. providers who were more concerned than the U.S. about damage to professional culture. Providers in both countries believed incident reporting was ineffective and time consuming with hospital leaders seldom acknowledging or integrating improvement measures based on reported incidents.

Conclusions

Sustainable improvements in patient care must be driven by hospital leadership who create just cultures where reporting of safety concerns is encouraged and respected within nonpunitive milieus.
Aquincola agrisoli sp. nov., isolated from rhizospheric soil of eggplant and in silico genome mining for the prediction of biosynthetic gene clusters
Authors: Huq Md. Amdadul , Rahman Md. Shahedur , Rahman M. Mizanur
Published: April 2024

A Gram-stain negative, aerobic, rod-shaped, motile and flagellated novel bacterial strain, designated MAHUQ-54T, was isolated from the rhizospheric soil of eggplant. The colonies were observed to be light pink coloured, smooth, spherical and 0.2–0.6 mm in diameter when grown on R2A agar medium for 2 days. MAHUQ-54T was able to grow at 15–40 °C, at pH 5.5–9.0 and in the presence of 0–0.5 % NaCl (w/v). The strain gave positive results for both catalase and oxidase tests. The strain was positive for hydrolysis of l-tyrosine, urea, Tween 20 and Tween 80. On the basis of the results of 16S rRNA gene sequence comparisons, the isolate was identified as a member of the genus Aquincola and is closely related to Aquincola tertiaricarbonis L10T (98.8 % sequence similarity) and Leptothrix mobilis Feox-1T (98.2 %). MAHUQ-54T has a draft genome size of 5 994 516 bp (60 contigs), annotated with 5348 protein-coding genes, 45 tRNA and 5 rRNA genes. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) and digital DNA–DNA hybridisation (dDDH) values between MAHUQ-54T and its closest phylogenetic neighbours were 75.8–83.3 and 20.8–25.3 %, respectively. In silico genome mining revealed that MAHUQ-54T has a significant potential for the production of novel natural products in the future. The genomic DNA G+C content was determined to be 70.4 %. The predominant isoprenoid quinone was ubiquinone-8. The major fatty acids were identified as C16  :  0, summed feature 3 (comprising C16  :  1ω7c and/or C16  :  1ω6c) and summed feature 8 (comprising C18  :  1ω7c and/or C18  :  1ω6c). On the basis of dDDH, ANI value, genotypic analysis, chemotaxonomic and physiological data, strain MAHUQ-54T represents a novel species within the genus Aquincola, for which the name Aquincola agrisoli sp. nov. is proposed, with MAHUQ-54T (=KACC 22001T = CGMCC 1.18515T) as the type strain.
Reinventing the Body Mass Index: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Peregrin-Alvarez JM
Published: April 2024

This study explores the predictive capabilities of the Body Mass Index (BMI) formula across a diverse dataset, examining the potential enhancements achievable through integrating additional parameters using machine learning (ML) models. Various modern ML models were utilized (K-Nearest Neighbors, Neural Networks, Decision Trees, Support Vector Classification, Logistic Regression, and Ridge Classifiers. Ensemble models: voting Classifier, Random Forest, and Gradient Boosting), demonstrating improved accuracy and precision over the traditional BMI calculations. Incorporating age and gender into BMI calculations together with the best performing ML model such as Gradient Boosting offers promise for more accurate and personalized health assessments, with significant implications for clinical practice and public health interventions.
Ethics practices associated with reusing health data: An assessment of patient registries
Authors: van den Akker Olmo R. , Stark Susanne , Strech Daniel
Published: April 2024

Background

As routinely collected patient data have become increasingly accessible over the years, more and more attention has been directed at the ethics of using such data for research purposes. Patient data is often available to researchers through patient registries that typically collect data of patients with a specific disease. While ethical guidelines for using patient data are presented frequently in research papers and institutional documents, it is currently unknown how patient registries implement the recommendations from these guidelines in practice and how they communicate their practices. In this project, we assessed to what extent a sample of 51 patient registries provides information about a range of ethics practices.

Methods

We searched for patient registries in the resource database of the European Network of Centres for Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmacovigilance (ENCePP). Our assessment checklist was based on three sources: REQueST, a tool for the assessment of registry quality, AHRQ’s guide for good registry practices, and a systematic review of the principles and norms related to health data sharing by Kalkman and colleagues. The checklist includes 26 questions about five ethics components: governance, conflicts of interest, informed consent, privacy, and use-and-access.

Results

We found substantial heterogeneity in the way patient registries provide information about ethics practices: some registries rarely provide information; others discuss all relevant practices and more. Patient registries often mentioned their governance structure and any potential conflicts of interests but typically did not describe the responsibilities and rights allocated to their funders. Information about informed consent was often provided to patients but the available documents often lacked relevant information like the benefits and risks of participation. Privacy and use-and-access policies were typically discussed but not very concrete.

Conclusions

We can conclude that registries typically provide information about key ethics practices such as governance, conflicts of interest, informed consent, privacy, and use-and-access procedures, but that this information is often not as detailed as recommended in existing guidelines. The checklist we designed for our assessment could be helpful for the ethical assessments of patient registries and other types of registries in the future, as well as for self-assessment of registries that aim to improve their ethics practices.
Differences in Cellular mechanics and ECM dynamics shape differential development of wing and haltere inDrosophila
Authors: Dilsha C , Shiju Salima , Shah Neel Ajay , Inamdar Mandar M. , Shashidhara L S
Published: April 2024

Diverse organ shapes and sizes arise from the complex interplay between cellular properties, mechanical forces, and gene regulation.Drosophilawing-a flat structure and the globular haltere are two homologous flight appendages emerging from a similar group of progenitor cells. The activity of a single Hox transcription factor, Ultrabithorax (Ubx), governs the development of these two distinct organs-wing and haltere with different cell and organ morphologies. Our work reported here on differential development of wing and haltere suggest that the localisation and abundance of actomyosin complexes, apical cell contractility, properties of extracellular matrix, and cell size and shape, which is a result of various cell intrinsic and extrinsic forces, plausibly influence the flat vs. globular geometry of these two organs. We followed the three-dimensional architecture of developing wing and halteres during early pupal morphogenesis, indicating the role of the above-mentioned factors in force generation and in driving differential morphogenesis, leading to different organ shapes. Loss of Ubx function led to wing cell-like cellular features in haltere discs, and corresponding changes at the level of adult organs. We also observed that RNAi-mediated downregulation ofAtrophinorPten, in the background of downregulatedExpanded(or elevated Yki), gave rise to varying degrees of haltere to wing homeotic transformations at the cellular as well as adult organ levels. Finally, we provide simulated scenarios based on computational modelling that propose key ingredients required for producing wing- or haltere-like morphologies inDrosophila.
A highly potent, orally bioavailable pyrazole-derived cannabinoid CB2 receptor-selective full agonist forin vivostudies
Authors: Chicca Andrea , Batora Daniel , Ullmer Christoph , Caruso Antonello , Fingerle Jürgen , Hartung Thomas , Degen Roland , Müller Matthias , Grether Uwe , Pacher Pal , Gertsch Jürg
Published: April 2024

The cannabinoid CB2 receptor (CB2R) is a potential therapeutic target for distinct forms of tissue injury and inflammatory diseases. To thoroughly investigate the role of CB2R in pathophysiological conditions and for target validationin vivo, optimal pharmacological tool compounds are essential. Despite the sizable progress in the generation of potent and selective CB2R ligands, pharmacokinetic parameters are often neglected forin vivostudies. Here, we report the generation and characterization of a tetra-substituted pyrazole CB2R full agonist named RNB-61 with high potency (Ki0.13–1.81 nM, depending on species) and a peripherally restricted action due to P-glycoprotein mediated efflux from the brain.3H and14C labelled RNB-61 showed apparentKdvalues < 4 nM towards human CB2R in both cell and tissue experiments. The >6000-fold selectivity over CB1 receptors and negligible off-targetsin vitro, combined with high oral bioavailability and suitable systemic pharmacokinetic (PK) properties, prompted the assessment of RNB-61 in a mouse ischemia-reperfusion model of acute kidney injury (AKI) and in a rat model of chronic kidney injury/inflammation and fibrosis (CKI) induced by unilateral ureteral obstruction. RNB-61 exerted dose-dependent nephroprotective and/or antifibrotic effects in the AKI/CKI models. Thus, RNB-61 is an optimal CB2R tool compound for preclinicalin vivostudies with superior biophysical and PK properties over generally used CB2R ligands.
Oral bioavailability of a noncoding RNA drug, TY1, that acts on macrophages
Authors: Yamaguchi Shukuro , Miyamoto Kazutaka , Jones Xaviar M. , Ciullo Alessandra , Morris Ashley , Tsi Kara , Marbán Eduardo , Ibrahim Ahmed G.E.
Published: April 2024

All approved RNA therapeutics require parenteral delivery. Here we demonstrate an orally bioavailable formulation wherein synthetic noncoding (nc) RNA, packaged into lipid nanoparticles, is loaded into casein-chitosan (C2) micelles. We used the C2 formulation to deliver TY1, a 24-nucleotide synthetic ncRNA which targets the DNA damage response pathway in macrophages. C2-formulated TY1 (TY1C2) efficiently packages and protects TY1 against degradative enzymes. In healthy mice, oral TY1C2was well-tolerated and nontoxic. Oral TY1C2exhibited disease-modifying bioactivity in 2 models of tissue injury: 1) rat myocardial infarction, where a single oral dose of TY1C2was cardioprotective, on par with intravenously-delivered TY1; and 2) mouse acute lung injury, where a single dose of TY1C2attenuated pulmonary inflammation. Mechanistic dissection revealed that TY1C2is not absorbed into the systemic circulation but is, instead, taken up by intestinal macrophages, namely those of the lamina propria and Peyer’s patches. This route of absorption may rationalize why an antisense oligonucleotide against Factor VII, which acts on hepatocytes, is not effective when administered in the C2 formulation. Thus, some (but not all) ncRNA drugs are bioavailable when delivered by mouth. Oral RNA delivery and uptake, relying on uptake via the gastrointestinal immune system, has broad-ranging therapeutic implications.

Graphical Abstract

Oral TY1C2is taken up in the small intestine mainly by macrophages of the lamina propria and the Peyer’s patches. Macrophages that have taken up oral TY1C2mediate disease-modifying bioactivity in 2 animal models of acute tissue injury. The blue + denotes the as-yet-uncertain mechanisms/mediators linking TY1 gut uptake to the drug’s systemic therapeutic benefits.
NADPH composite index analysis quantifies the relationship between compartmentalized NADPH dynamics and growth rates in cancer cells
Authors: Moon Sun Jin , Chiappino-Pepe Anush , Dong Wentao , Kelleher Joanne K , Vander Heiden Matthew , Stephanopoulos Gregory , Sikes Hadley D.
Published: April 2024

NADPH, a highly compartmentalized electron donor in mammalian cells, plays essential roles in cell metabolism. However, little is known about how cytosolic and mitochondrial NADPH dynamics relate to cancer cell growth rates in response to varying nutrient conditions. To address this issue, we present NADPH composite index analysis, which quantifies the relationship between compartmentalized NADPH dynamics and growth rates using genetically encoded NADPH sensors, automated image analysis pipeline, and correlation analysis. Through this analysis, we demonstrated that compartmentalized NADPH dynamics patterns were cancer cell-type dependent. Specifically, cytosolic and mitochondrial NADPH dynamics of MDA-MB-231 decreased in response to serine deprivation, while those of HCT-116 increased in response to serine or glutamine deprivation. Furthermore, by introducing a fractional contribution parameter, we correlated cytosolic and mitochondrial NADPH dynamics to growth rates. Using this parameter, we identified cancer cell lines whose growth rates were selectively inhibited by targeting cytosolic or mitochondrial NADPH metabolism. Mechanistically, we identified citrate transporter as a key mitochondrial transporter that maintains compartmentalized NADPH dynamics and growth rates. Altogether, our results present a significant advance in quantifying the relationship between compartmentalized NADPH dynamics and cancer cell growth rates, highlighting a potential of targeting compartmentalized NADPH metabolism for selective cancer cell growth inhibitions.
A small step towards an important goal: fragment screen of the c-di-AMP-synthesizing enzyme CdaA
Authors: Neumann Piotr , Heidemann Jana L. , Wollenhaupt Jan , Dickmanns Achim , Agthe Michael , Weiss Manfred S. , Ficner Ralf
Published: April 2024

CdaA is the most widespread diadenylate cyclase in many bacterial species, including several multidrug-resistant human pathogens. The enzymatic product of CdaA, cyclic di-AMP, is a secondary messenger that is essential for the viability of many bacteria. Its absence in humans makes CdaA a very promising and attractive target for the development of new antibiotics. Here, the structural results are presented of a crystallographic fragment screen against CdaA from Listeria monocytogenes, a saprophytic Gram-positive bacterium and an opportunistic food-borne pathogen that can cause listeriosis in humans and animals. Two of the eight fragment molecules reported here were localized in the highly conserved ATP-binding site. These fragments could serve as potential starting points for the development of antibiotics against several CdaA-dependent bacterial species.
Mamaearth: a digital first brand venturing offline
Authors: Soni Swati , Trehan Devika , Chotia Varun , Srivastava Mohit
Published: April 2024

Learning outcomes

The key learning objectives are as follows: analyze Mamaearth’s growth trajectory in the Indian market, illustrate the meaning of a direct-to-consumer (D2C) brand, analyze the importance of social media in building a D2C brand, analyze the challenges and advantages associated with a D2C brand, analyze growth and expansion options available with Mamaearth and evaluate the strategies for Indian start-ups in the beauty and personal care space.

Case overview/synopsis

In 2016, what began as a quest to find safe baby care products for the first-time parents Varun and Ghazal, turned into an entrepreneurial opportunity. The couple started Honasa Consumer Private Limited at Gurugram, which owned the brand Mamaearth. Conceived as a D2C brand for mothers opposed to harsh baby care products, it debuted with just six baby care products with exclusive online availability. For the brand to grow, it recreated the marketing mix to be perceived as a brand for all ages. The step successfully garnered a customer base of over 1.5 million consumers in 500 cities and a valuation of INR 1bn within four years of operations. In February 2021, Mamaearth became a brand with INR 5bn annualized revenue run rate and aspired to double it to INR 10bn by 2023. Though Mamaearth debuted as a D2C brand, after tapping around 10,000 retail stores, the Alaghs realized that many consumers still preferred transacting in the offline space. Alaghs decided to expand by acquiring a robust offline space in 100 smart cities in India. Would it be wise for Mamaearth to take forward their offline expansion plans? Alternatively, would an aggressive product innovation coupled with a more substantial online presence be a more sustainable proposition?

Complexity academic level

The case study is appropriate for Post Graduate Diploma in Management/Master of Business Administration level courses of second year in strategic brand management, digital marketing, integrated marketing communication and marketing strategy. The case stuudy may also be useful for prospective entrepreneurs planning to embark upon a D2C venture. The case study elaborates on the emergence, marketing and branding of Mamaearth. The case study helps students understand the meaning of a D2C brand and the growth options available in the Indian market for a D2C brand from the perspective of Mamaearth.

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Factors affecting the technological innovation of banks toward accounting benefits in a developing country’s industrial revolution 4.0 context: evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Vu Thong Quoc , Abu Afifa Malik
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the factors affecting technological innovation intentions at banks listed in Vietnam, a developing country, to develop business activities and accounting benefits according to the trend of the 4th Industrial Revolution.

Design/methodology/approach

To collect and analyze the data for this study, qualitative and quantitative methods were used. Specifically, 20 finance and banking experts and 45 managers in the field of information technology were interviewed in qualitative research over a period of three months. Then, 1,000 questionnaires were sent to banks within six months, with the final sample for quantitative research being 324 respondents. Finally, the structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to check the hypotheses. Regarding the tools used, the qualitative study used a semistructured questionnaire to collect information. Meanwhile, SPSS software was used to analyze quantitative research information, including checking common method bias, nonresponse bias, evaluating scale quality and checking SEM.

Findings

The findings show that the usefulness, ease of application, credibility, innovation and efficiency of technology have certain impacts on technological innovation intentions at banks listed in Vietnam. Using the SEM analysis, the results showed that the five factors had a favorable influence on the technological innovation intentions. More specifically, this study proposed adding an efficiency factor, and the results showed that it has the greatest impact on technological innovation intentions.

Research limitations/implications

This study would be considered a continuation of prior studies because it provides empirical evidence for business models at banks listed in developing countries (for example, Vietnam) and so provides useful advice for bank management not only in Vietnam but across Asia. In fact, bank managers should consider introducing new technology as appropriate to make their reports more clear and up-to-date, therefore improving their performance. Banking managers, in particular, should focus on enhancing the bank’s application technology indicators to obtain a competitive edge.

Originality/value

This is a pioneering study that uses a combination of the reasoned action theory, planned behavior theory, transaction cost theory and unified theory of acceptance and use of technology to expand knowledge about technological innovation intentions at listed banks in the context of a developing country. The study also discovered and added the efficiency factor as a key factor affecting the intention to innovate technology at listed banks. These contribute to improving the literature of technological innovation intentions.
Giving is receiving: exploring the linkage between university corporate social responsibility and university corporate brand legitimacy
Authors: Amani David
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study examined the influence of university corporate social responsibility (University CSR) on university corporate brand legitimacy through the lens of university brand trust.

Design/methodology/approach

The study utilized a cross-sectional research design with a quantitative approach to gather data from a sample of 398 university students. The collected data were analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of the study suggest that University CSR has a significant influence on the legitimacy of a university's corporate brand. Moreover, the study identified the mediating role of university brand trust in the proposed relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted in the context of higher education in Tanzania. As a result, the generalizability of the findings to other contexts that significantly differ from Tanzania, a developing country, may be limited.

Practical implications

The study recommends that the management of higher education institutions in developing countries should include CSR practices in the strategic plans of universities. Additionally, faculty members should be empowered to play a significant role as initiators and implementers of CSR programs.

Originality/value

This study is one of the few attempts to examine the interplay between university CSR, corporate brand trust and university corporate brand legitimacy. The study contributes to the state of knowledge in the education sector by highlighting the role of university CSR in building social acceptance, which is a crucial pillar in empowering universities to play a role in social and economic development.
A longitudinal model of continued acceptance of conversational artificial intelligence
Authors: Ng Yu-Leung
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The existing technology acceptance models have not yet investigated functional and motivational factors impacting trust in and use of conversational artificial intelligence (AI) by integrating the feedback and sequential updating mechanisms. This study challenged the existing models and constructed an integrated longitudinal model. Using a territory-wide two-wave survey of a representative sample, this new model examined the effects of hedonic motivation, social motivation, perceived ease of use, and perceived usefulness on continued trust, intended use, and actual use of conversational AI.

Design/methodology/approach

An autoregressive cross-lagged model was adopted to test the structural associations of the seven repeatedly measured constructs.

Findings

The results revealed that trust in conversational AI positively affected continued actual use, hedonic motivation increased continued intended use, and social motivation and perceived ease of use enhanced continued trust in conversational AI. While the original technology acceptance model was unable to explain the continued acceptance of conversational AI, the findings showed positive feedback effects of actual use on continued intended use. Except for trust, the sequential updating effects of all the measured factors were significant.

Originality/value

This study intended to contribute to the technology acceptance and human–AI interaction paradigms by developing a longitudinal model of continued acceptance of conversational AI. This new model adds to the literature by considering the feedback and sequential updating mechanisms in understanding continued conversational AI acceptance.
The impact of waqf-based microfinance program on clients’ well-being during COVID-19 pandemic: empirical evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Yumna Aimatul , Marta Joan , Yanuarta Re Ramel
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of a waqf-based microfinance program on clients’ well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained primary data from a survey distributed to 282 respondents, consisting of 150 clients and 132 nonclients of the Bank Wakaf Mikro (BWM) Al Kausar in Indonesia. This study constructed a well-being index (WBI) and compared clients’ and nonclients’ WBI before and during the pandemic using the difference-in-differences (DID) method. DID measures the effect of a treatment in a “treatment group” versus a “control group” using data from two periods.

Findings

This study found that clients and nonclients alike experienced an increase in well-being throughout the pandemic, but the increase was greater for clients than for nonclients. This study argues that the waqf-based microfinance program run by Bank Waqf Mikro model can assist their clients – as more vulnerable groups in society – to maintain their well-being during the pandemic.

Research limitations/implications

To ensure the effectiveness of waqf-based microfinance programs in diverse settings, this study should include more respondents from different institutions.

Practical implications

This research has several practical recommendations, particularly for integrating Islamic charity for microfinance. The findings of this study suggest that the BWM model, which combines three institutions – the government, zakat groups and Islamic boarding schools (pesantrens) – can play a substantial role in enhancing the welfare of its members during the pandemic.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the body of knowledge on Islamic microfinance by providing empirical evidence of the importance of waqf-based microfinance in reducing the pandemic’s impact on clients well-being.
Islamic marketing of conventional banks: bridging managers’ and clients’ perceived gaps
Authors: Islam Mohammad Mominul , Hasan Mostofa Mahmud
Published: April 2024

Purpose

While the Noble Quran dictates the prohibition of interest, conventional banks promote Islamic banking by opening Islamic banking windows. Against this backdrop, this study aims to investigate the perceived gaps between managers and clients in Islamic marketing and banking, focusing on conventional banks’ Islamic banking windows.

Design/methodology/approach

Guided by a qualitative approach, semi-structured personal interviews and observations served as the data collection methods, involving 25 banks and 50 respondents in 3 different districts, namely, Shirajganj, Rajshahi and Chapainawabganj of Bangladesh from January to October 2023. The data were analysed using ATLAS.ti 2023 to explore codes and quotations derived from 14 interview questions. Further, ATLAS.ti 2023 facilitated synthesizing content, concepts, code occurrence, network analysis and thematic analysis.

Findings

Islamic and non-Islamic banks use Quranic verses, hadiths (prophetic traditions), images of mosques, the Kaaba and Arabic texts as Islamic marketing tools. These spiritual, divine and prescriptive tools are associated with Islamic banking. However, conventional banks receive criticism for having separate Islamic banking windows to serve religiously conscious clients, which generates tension among clients and bank managers.

Practical implications

The findings can theoretically assist academics in examining conventional banks’ Islamic marketing and banking practices, opening Islamic banking windows. Importantly, Shariah boards can play policy roles in safeguarding the function of Islamic marketing and banking. Managers can use the findings to anticipate client perceptions and enhance Islamic marketing and banking strategies. Likewise, the social implications include the explicit stance of Shariah to mitigate the mixture of halal and haram banking.

Originality/value

This pioneering study explores the perspectives of Islamic banking windows by non-Islamic banks. The combination of Islamic marketing and banking is a noteworthy novelty in this study and deserves recognition for its unique contribution to halal marketing and finance.
Gold-based housing financing model: proposing an alternative housing financing model for Islamic bank
Authors: Ivantri Madha Adi , Azizi Muhammad Hakim , Yudha Ana Toni Roby Candra , Saputra Yudi
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a new housing finance mechanism through gold price as an alternative to interest rate in Islamic home financing, especially on Bai’Bithaman Ajil (BBA) contract.

Design/methodology/approach

This study using simulation approach to calculate the monthly installments for home financing using gold price references. In simple terms, propose a financing formula in the BBA contract by converting the selling price of the house to the gold price, and then the monthly installments also follow the actual gold price. The authors provide an example by simulating this formula using historical data and cases of housing financing at Indonesian Islamic banks. The authors compare housing financing models based on gold prices and interest rates. Finally, The authors can compare the two housing financing models that are affordable for low-income people.

Findings

The results show that in the initial period, monthly installments of BBA based on gold price were lower than home financing based on interest rate. This result makes it possible for low-income people who cannot access financing based on interest rates to access financing based on gold price. However, the total installments of financing based on gold prices are higher than the financing model based on interest rates.

Research limitations/implications

The paper confines one contract, namely, BBA, as it is claimed to be more Shariah-compliant than others.

Practical implications

These findings suggest an alternative model for Islamic banks and regulatory authorities in Indonesia to replace the interest rate reference with the gold price in BBA contract housing financing. This model can offer competitive advantages for Islamic banks, including lower initial installments and inflation-protected profits, serving as a means of differentiating them from conventional banks.

Social implications

Gold price-based housing financing model in Islamic banks will increase the affordability of housing financing for low-income people.

Originality/value

This paper tries to solve two problems, namely, first, the problem of assuming that Islamic and conventional banks are the same, and second, the problem of housing finance affordability. This study needs to be explored.
Addressing uncertainty in closed-loop supply chain networks: a multi-objective approach to integrated production and transportation problems
Authors: Varshney Niharika , Gupta Srikant , Ahmed Aquil
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to address the inherent uncertainties within closed-loop supply chain (CLSC) networks through the application of a multi-objective approach, specifically focusing on the optimization of integrated production and transportation processes. The primary purpose is to enhance decision-making in supply chain management by formulating a robust multi-objective model.

Design/methodology/approach

In dealing with uncertainty, this study uses Pythagorean fuzzy numbers (PFNs) to effectively represent and quantify uncertainties associated with various parameters within the CLSC network. The proposed model is solved using Pythagorean hesitant fuzzy programming, presenting a comprehensive and innovative methodology designed explicitly for handling uncertainties inherent in CLSC contexts.

Findings

The research findings highlight the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed framework for addressing uncertainties within CLSC networks. Through a comparative analysis with other established approaches, the model demonstrates its robustness, showcasing its potential to make informed and resilient decisions in supply chain management.

Research limitations/implications

This study successfully addressed uncertainty in CLSC networks, providing logistics managers with a robust decision-making framework. Emphasizing the importance of PFNs and Pythagorean hesitant fuzzy programming, the research offered practical insights for optimizing transportation routes and resource allocation. Future research could explore dynamic factors in CLSCs, integrate real-time data and leverage emerging technologies for more agile and sustainable supply chain management.

Originality/value

This research contributes significantly to the field by introducing a novel and comprehensive methodology for managing uncertainty in CLSC networks. The adoption of PFNs and Pythagorean hesitant fuzzy programming offers an original and valuable approach to addressing uncertainties, providing practitioners and decision-makers with insights to make informed and resilient decisions in supply chain management.
Simulating the corrective actions affecting system availability: a system dynamics approach
Authors: Shaker Fatemeh , Shahin Arash , Jahanyan Saeed
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to simulate vital corrective actions (CAs) affecting system availability through a system dynamics approach based on the results obtained by analyzing the causal relationships among failure modes and effects analysis elements.

Design/methodology/approach

A stock and flow diagram has been developed to simulate system behaviors during a timeframe. Some improvement scenarios regarding the most necessary CAs according to their strategic priority and the possibility of eliminating root causes of critical failure modes in a roller-transmission system have been simulated and analyzed to choose the most effective one(s) for the system availability. The proposed approach has been examined in a steel-manufacturing company.

Findings

Results indicated the most effective CAs to remove or diminish critical failure causes that led to the less reliability of the system. It illustrated the impacts of the selected CAs on eliminating or decreasing root causes of the critical failure modes, lessening the system’s failure rate and increasing the system availability more effectively.

Research limitations/implications

Results allow managers and decision-makers to consider different maintenance scenarios without wasting time and more cost, choosing the most appropriate option according to system conditions.

Originality/value

This study innovation would be the dynamic analysis of interactions among failure modes, effects and causes over time to predict the system behavior and improve availability by choosing the most effective CAs through improvement scenario simulation via VENSIM software.
Material extrusion additive manufacturing of zirconia: from filament characterisation to Weibull statistics
Authors: Morfini Luigi , Meng Fankai , Beretta Margherita , Vleugels Jozef , Spina Roberto , Ferraris Eleonora
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the performance of filament-based material extrusion additive manufacturing (MEX), combined with debinding and sintering, as a novel approach to manufacturing ceramic components.

Design/methodology/approach

A commercial ZrO2 filament was selected and analysed by infra-red (IR) spectroscopy, rheology and thermo-gravimetry. The influence of the print parameters (layer thickness, flow rate multiplier, printing speed) and sintering cycle were investigated to define a suitable printing and sintering strategy. Biaxial flexure tests were applied on sintered discs realised with optimised printing strategies, and the results were analysed via Weibull statistics to evaluate the mechanical properties of printed components. The hardness and thermal conductivity of sintered components were also tested.

Findings

Layer thickness and flow rate multiplier of the printing process were proved to have significant effect on the density of as-printed parts. Optimised samples display a sintered density >99% of the theoretical density, 20% linear sintering shrinkage, a characteristic flexural strength of 871 MPa with a Weibull modulus of 4.9, a Vickers hardness of 12.90 ± 0.3 GPa and a thermal conductivity of 3.62 W/mK. Gyroids were printed for demonstration purposes.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this work is the first to apply biaxial flexure tests and Weibull statistics to additively manufactured MEX zirconia components, hence providing comparable results to other additive technologies. Moreover, fractography analysis builds the connection between printing defects and the fracture mechanism of bending. This study also provides guidelines for fabricating high-density zirconia components with MEX.