bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mapping circuit dynamics during function and dysfunction
Authors: Gorur-Shandilya Srinivas , Cronin Elizabeth M. , Schneider Anna C. , Haddad Sara Ann , Rosenbaum Philipp , Bucher Dirk , Nadim Farzan , Marder Eve
Published: July 2021

Neural circuits can generate many spike patterns, but only some are functional. The study of how circuits generate and maintain functional dynamics is hindered by a poverty of description of circuit dynamics across functional and dysfunctional states. For example, although the regular oscillation of a central pattern generator is well characterized by its frequency and the phase relationships between its neurons, these metrics are ineffective descriptors of the irregular and aperiodic dynamics that circuits can generate under perturbation or in disease states. By recording the circuit dynamics of the well-studied pyloric circuit inC. borealis, we used statistical features of spike times from neurons in the circuit to visualize the spike patterns generated by this circuit under a variety of conditions. This unsupervised approach captures both the variability of functional rhythms and the diversity of atypical dynamics in a single map. Clusters in the map identify qualitatively different spike patterns hinting at different dynamical states in the circuit. State probability and the statistics of the transitions between states varied with environmental perturbations, removal of descending neuromodulation, and the addition of exogenous neuromodulators. This analysis reveals strong mechanistically interpretable links between complex changes in the collective behavior of a neural circuit and specific experimental manipulations, and can constrain hypotheses of how circuits generate functional dynamics despite variability in circuit architecture and environmental perturbations.
Determining the maximum information gain and optimizing experimental design in neutron reflectometry using the Fisher information
Authors: Durant James H. , Wilkins Lucas , Butler Keith , Cooper Joshaniel F. K.
Published: July 2021

An approach based on the Fisher information (FI) is developed to quantify the maximum information gain and optimal experimental design in neutron reflectometry experiments. In these experiments, the FI can be calculated analytically and used to provide sub-second predictions of parameter uncertainties. This approach can be used to influence real-time decisions about measurement angle, measurement time, contrast choice and other experimental conditions based on parameters of interest. The FI provides a lower bound on parameter estimation uncertainties, and these are shown to decrease with the square root of the measurement time, providing useful information for the planning and scheduling of experimental work. As the FI is computationally inexpensive to calculate, it can be computed repeatedly during the course of an experiment, saving costly beam time by signalling that sufficient data have been obtained or saving experimental data sets by signalling that an experiment needs to continue. The approach's predictions are validated through the introduction of an experiment simulation framework that incorporates instrument-specific incident flux profiles, and through the investigation of measuring the structural properties of a phospholipid bilayer.
Stable sample delivery in a viscous medium via a polyimide-based single-channel microfluidic chip for serial crystallography
Authors: Nam Ki Hyun , Cho Yunje
Published: July 2021

Serial crystallography (SX) provides room-temperature crystal structures with minimal radiation damage and facilitates the comprehension of molecular dynamics through time-resolved studies. In SX experiments, it is important to deliver a large number of crystal samples to the X-ray interaction point in a serial and stable manner. The advantage of crystal delivery in a viscous medium via a capillary is the ability to deliver all of the crystal samples to the X-ray interaction point at a low flow rate; however, the capillary often breaks during handling and high X-ray absorption can occur at low energy states. This study aimed to develop a stable system for sample delivery in a viscous medium via a polyimide-based single-channel microfluidic (PSM) chip for SX. Since this microfluidic chip comprises a polyimide film, it has high tensile strength and higher X-ray transmittance than a quartz capillary. The PSM chip was connected to a syringe containing the microcrystals embedded in viscous medium. The channel of the PSM chip was aligned to the X-ray path, and the viscous medium containing lysozyme crystals was stably delivered using a syringe pump at a flow rate of 100 nl min−1. Room-temperature lysozyme crystal structures were successfully determined at 1.85 Å resolution. This method would greatly facilitate sample delivery for SX experiments using synchrotron X-rays.
Refinements on electron diffraction data of β-glycine in MoPro: a quest for an improved structure model
Authors: Jha Kunal Kumar , Gruza Barbara , Chodkiewicz Michał Leszek , Jelsch Christian , Dominiak Paulina Maria
Published: July 2021

The advancement in 3D electron diffraction (3D ED) techniques that lead to a revolution in molecular structure determination using nano-sized crystals is now achieving atomic resolution. The structures can be obtained from 3D ED data with tools similar to those used for X-ray structure determination. In this context, the MoPro software, originally designed for structure and charge density refinements using X-ray diffraction data, has been adapted. Structure refinement on 3D ED data was achieved via implementation of electron scattering factors available in the literature and by application of the Mott–Bethe equation to X-ray scattering factors computed from the multipolar atom model. The multipolar model was parametrized using the transferable pseudoatom databanks ELMAM2 and UBDB. Applying the independent atom model (IAM), i.e. spherical neutral atom refinement, to 3D ED data on β-glycine in MoPro resulted in structure and refinement statistics comparable to those obtained from other well known software. Use of the transferred aspherical atom model (TAAM) led to improvement of the refinement statistics and a better fit of the model to the 3D ED data as compared with the spherical atom refinement. The anisotropic displacement parameters of non-H atoms appear underestimated by typically 0.003 Å2 for the non-H atoms in IAM refinement compared with TAAM. Thus, MoPro is shown to be an effective tool for crystal structure refinement on 3D ED data and allows use of a spherical or a multipolar atom model. Electron density databases can be readily transferred with no further modification needed when the Mott–Bethe equation is applied.
Ψ-Polyhedral symbols for coordination geometries of lead(II) with a stereochemically active lone pair
Authors: Ng Seik Weng
Published: July 2021

Because an IUCr/IUPAC-designated set of letters/numbers identifies the configuration of the atoms linked to the PbIIatom in its coordination compounds, a Ψ prefix before such as a polyhedral symbol provides useful information when its lone pair is stereochemically active. Such notation is especially relevant when the metal atom is connected to eight or more atoms regardless of whether the lone pair is active or inert. The polyhedral symbols for the crystal structures in some 50 articles published after 2000 are reported here as the original studies did not expressly identify coordination geometries.
Feeling guilty and willingness to buy organic food: the moderating role of motherhood
Authors: Konuk Faruk Anıl
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The main purpose of the study is to examine the moderating influence of motherhood on the linkage between feeling guilty and willingness to buy organic food.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected using a questionnaire from female consumers and analyzed with structural equation modeling.

Findings

The structural equation model results revealed that food safety concern and environmental concern influence feeling guilty about buying conventional food products. The empirical findings also supported the positive effect of feeling guilty on willingness to buy organic food. Additionally, for mother consumers, the impact of food safety concern and environmental concern on feeling guilty was greater than non-mother consumers. Similarly, moderator analyses revealed that the influence of feeling guilty on willingness to buy organic food is significantly higher for mothers.

Originality/value

Referring to the attitude-behavior-context (ABC) theory, the current research aimed at filling the knowledge void by examining how motherhood moderates the relationship between feeling guilty and willingness to buy organic food. Hence, understanding the moderation role of motherhood provides newer insights into consumer behavior and marketing literature. The results of the research can help both organic food producers and retailers to develop successful marketing strategies.
A comprehensive overview on BIM-integrated cyber physical system architectures and practices in the architecture, engineering and construction industry
Authors: Banerjee Anish , Nayaka R. Ramesh
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate building information modelling (BIM) integrated Internet of Things (IoT) architectures extensively and provide comparative evaluation of those against deciding parameters pertaining to their characteristics and subsequent applications in construction industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper identifies BIM-integrated cyber physical system frameworks, specific to project objectives, comprising of sensors working as physical assets and BIM-based virtual models acting as the cyber component , connected via wired or wireless protocols (e.g. WiFi, Zigbee, near-field communication, mobile-to-mobile, Zwave, 3 G, 4 G, long-term evolution, 5 G and low-power wide-area networks) and their potential applications in decision-making, visual management, logistics and supply chain management, smart building system management and structural performance assessment, etc. Such proposed architectures are evaluated against deciding parameters such as availability, reliability, mobility, performance, management, scalability, interoperability and security and privacy to evaluate their respective efficiencies.

Findings

This study finds that the underlying aim of planned IoT frameworks is to integrate systems and processes for a better information flow and to initiate shift from silo solutions to a smart ecosystem. The efficiencies of such frameworks are completely subjective to their respective project natures, objectives and requirements.

Originality/value

This study is unique in its nature to identify requirements of an efficient BIM-integrated IoT architecture and provide comprehensive insights about potential applications in construction industry.
A hybrid simulation approach for site layout planning in construction projects
Authors: Taghaddos Hosein , Heydari Mohammad Hosein , Asgari AmirHosein
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to propose a hybrid simulation approach for site layout and material laydown planning in construction projects considering both the project’s continuous and discrete state.

Design/methodology/approach

Efficient site layout planning (SLP) is a critical task at the early stages of the project to enhance constructability and reduce safety risks, construction duration and cost. In this paper, external and internal conditions affecting SLP gets identified. Then dynamic features of project conditions and project operations are analyzed by using a hybrid simulation approach combining continuous simulation (CS) and discrete event simulation (DES).

Findings

An efficient site layout plan regarding the project conditions results in cost efficiency. Instead of using DES or CS alone, this paper uses a hybrid simulation approach. Such a hybrid method leads to more accurate results that enable construction managers to make better decisions, such as material management variables. The proposed approach is implemented in a real construction project (i.e. earthmoving operation) to evaluate the hybrid simulation approach’s performance.

Practical implications

The proposed approach is implemented in a real construction project (i.e. earthmoving operation) to evaluate the performance of the hybrid simulation approach.

Originality/value

Although DES is used widely in construction simulation, it involves some limitations or inefficiencies. On the other hand, modeling resource interactions and capturing the construction project’s holistic nature with CS or system dynamics face some challenges. This study uses a hybrid DES and CS approach to enhance commercial construction projects’ SLP.
Employee socio-economic dependency as an antecedent of abusive supervision in Russian business organisations
Authors: Balabanova Evgeniya
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify previously unexamined predictors of abusive supervision (AS) that stem from socio-economic dependency of employees upon their direct supervisors.

Design/methodology/approach

Using social exchange theory (SET) as framework, the author conducted empirical analysis that was based on survey data collected among 1,100 Russian white-collar private sector employees.

Findings

The results reveal the importance of organisation-level managerial practices which create employees' socio-economic dependency in predicting abusive supervision (AS). Significant positive predictions of AS in Russian business organisations are “accidental” and “zero-option” employment; getting a job through informal social contacts (“blat”); and dependence of wage upon personal relations with a supervisor. In turn, performance-based payment is the strongest factor that hinders AS. Taken together, these factors support one of the key assumptions of SET that control over valued resources creates imbalanced power relations, thus providing the fertile ground to the abuse of power.

Practical implications

Findings show that a transparent, performance-based system of payments, contributes to preventing AS by immediate supervisors. The author also provides arguments for reducing the economic and administrative power of line managers.

Originality/value

This study adds to the understanding of the role of managerial practices, which create socio-economic dependency of employees from managers, in predicting AS in organisations.
There is no good war for talent: a critical review of the literature on talent management
Authors: Kwon Kibum , Jang Soebin
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a critical review of the literature on talent management (TM) and highlight the potential downsides of exclusive TM approaches and workforce differentiation.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of 32 theoretical and empirical studies published in peer-reviewed scholarly journals in the field of TM was conducted.

Findings

The review resulted in four overarching themes that highlight the dysfunctional aspects of exclusive TM approaches and workforce differentiation: (a) organizational justice, (b) ethics, (c) internal competition and (d) workplace diversity. Based on the four themes, the authors present a conceptual model that includes a feedback loop for reevaluating and improving on existing TM processes. Several research questions and propositions are also presented for consideration in future TM research.

Research limitations/implications

This paper highlights the need for more empirical studies and statistically rigorous evidence to demonstrate and justify the effectiveness of TM.

Practical implications

The authors suggest that the locus of TM practices should be shifted from managing individual job competencies to managing organizational capabilities.

Originality/value

This review illuminates the need to reevaluate existing TM approaches and minimize TM's potential downsides for long-term organizational health and competitiveness.
Evaluation of societal trust on multi-hazard early warning (MHEW) mechanism: Sri Lankan context
Authors: Pitigala Liyana Arachchi Ishani Shehara , Siriwardana Chandana , Amaratunga Dilanthi , Haigh Richard
Published: July 2021

Purpose

It is significant to assess the societal trust toward the new advancements in multi-hazard early warnings (MHEW) with the focus on disaster risk reduction (DRR). Based on this, the purpose of this paper is to examine the extent of societal trust behavior along with the parameters such as mode of communication and institutions of issuing early warnings (EWs).

Design/methodology/approach

A field questionnaire survey was conducted to identify the extent of societal trust. This was conducted in ten selected Grama Niladari divisions in Sri Lanka based on a developed hazard matrix. The fuzzy logic approach was applied to examine the trust level of collected 323 responses obtained through this. The analysis was done based on the responses on mobile-based platforms in EW and the credibility level of the warnings received through different institutions.

Findings

The analyzed survey responses indicated that society has a higher extent of trust toward the EWs disseminated through mobile-based platforms. Moreover, these represent a strong positive correlation among the societal trust level and the level of importance of EW dissemination through mobile-based platforms. Further, in terms of trusted stakeholders in issuing EW alerts, Disaster Management Center, Sri Lanka Police and Media ranked the highest in the Sri Lankan context. Overall, findings were visually mapped through the causal loop diagrams (CLDs).

Practical implications

In enhancing the effectiveness of the existing MHEW mechanism, the policy implications could be done, based on the results obtained from this research study. These could be altered with the implementation of DRR strategies with a community focus.

Originality/value

The fuzzy logic approach was used in the determination of the societal decision-making on the extent of trust level. Fuzzy triangulation is mainly applied in the interpretation of the results. Further, overall parameters that determine the community trust on MHEW are represented through CLDs through system dynamics application.
Predicting patterns of persistence at a South African university: a decision tree approach
Authors: Paideya Vino , Bengesai Annah V.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The emerging field of educational data mining provides an opportunity to process large-scale data emerging from higher education institutions (HEIs) into reliable knowledge. The purpose of this paper is to examine factors influencing persistence amongst students enrolled in a Chemistry major at a South African university using enrolment data.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consisted of 511 students registered for a Chemistry major beginning in 2012, 2013 and 2014. Descriptive statistics in counts and percentages and classification (decision) tree methods were used in the analysis.

Findings

Graduation from the Chemistry major is likely to occur after 4 years, which is regulation time plus 1 year, whilst departure mainly occurs in the first year of study. Classification tree modelling demonstrated that first year accumulated credits (FYAC), gender, financial aid status and school quintile were the factors associated with persistence. FYAC was the most critical factor.

Research limitations/implications

Although this study has many strengths, significantly the use of data mining methods to classify students, some limitations might affect how the results are interpreted. First, the analysis focused on a one-degree major in one institution, which leads to the suspicion that the observed results are discipline or institution-specific. Thus, the findings cannot be generalised to other contexts or disciplines. Second, with so many potential factors influencing student persistence, the analysis presented in this paper, which was limited to the covariates obtained in the institutional dataset the authors used, is by no means exhaustive. There is the possibility that some factors, which are not included in the present analysis, might have more predictive power.

Originality/value

Globally, university administrators are interested in predicting student outcomes and understanding the intricate balance between enrolment and throughput. Thus, whilst the findings from this study have an institutional focus, they resonate with other HEIs and present an alternative and highly visual way of identifying specific combinations of factors associated with persistence. The results from a classification tree model can also classify students at risk and inform the development of interventions that will support them.
Exploring vulnerability and resilience of shipping for coastal communities during disruptions: findings from a case study of Vancouver Island in Canada
Authors: Islam Samsul , Goerlandt Floris , Uddin Mohammad Jasim , Shi Yangyan , Abdul Rahman Noorul Shaiful Fitri
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to improve understanding of how coastal maritime transport system of Vancouver Island would be disrupted in disaster events, and the strategies could be used to address such risks. Any transport disruption at the maritime leg of the supply chain can affect the needs of vulnerable residents and thus, the supply of many goods to coastal communities.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study focuses on the disruption that can be expected to occur for ferries that serves coastal communities of Vancouver Island in Canada. A landslide scenario in the Fraser River (which connects coastal communities) is developed, and interviews and focus groups are used to gain understanding of the vulnerability and resilience of shipping.

Findings

The findings show that the maritime leg of the supply chain for the coastal communities of Vancouver Island is resilient to a landslide disruption of ferries. Besides, there would be no impact on the operability of tugs and barges. This study also offers suggestions for creating the conditions for increasing resilience of maritime supply chains to any such disruption.

Research limitations/implications

A research gap exists with respect to minimizing disruption in maritime supply chains, mainly in regard to lessening the impact on the vulnerable residents of coastal communities. This study contributes to filling this gap in the literature.

Practical implications

The findings have significant implications for maritime service providers and for people working on disaster preparedness, emergency response and recovery.

Originality/value

Studies which focus on alleviating the impact of disruptions in the maritime supply chains and the mitigation strategies for coastal communities are scarce in the literature.
Knowledge of tourist spatial behaviour to improve Melaka world heritage site management
Authors: Md Khairi Nurul Diyana , Ismail Hairul Nizam , Syed Jaafar Syed Muhammad Rafy
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to comprehensively use the knowledge of tourist spatial behaviour to improve World Heritage Site (WHS) management. Efficient heritage management can be achieved if critical aspects such as tourist spatial activities were better and comprehensively understood, primarily at the micro-level. Inaccurate information on these essential aspects will potentially cause problems in managing a WHS and compromises its Outstanding Universal Value. This study aims to extend the knowledge of tourist spatial behaviour by including the non-spatial and spatial characteristics of the tourists to better manage a WHS.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a trip diary and a GPS tracking app with 384 free independent tourists as the study respondents. Melaka WHS was chosen as the study area. The data were complemented by an aggregative analysis method to extract different discrete patterns based on individual itineraries.

Findings

This paper indicates a noticeable relationship between individuals’ non-spatial and spatial characteristics. It suggests that integrating these two characteristics can provide more comprehensive knowledge of tourist behaviour.

Originality/value

This paper provides a different perspective to improving WHS management by determining the operative tools to develop an effective visitor management plan.
Modeling hedonic motive–based segments of wine festival visitors using decision tree approach
Authors: Payini Valsaraj , Bolar Kartikeya , Mallya Jyothi , Kamath Vasanth
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to identify and validate the different clusters of wine festival visitors based on their hedonic motivation. Further, this study also sought how identified clusters were different in terms of perceived value, satisfaction and loyalty to the wine festival.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted during the International Beach Wine Festival held in Karnataka, India, to collect primary data from 400 visitors. Data were subjected to a two-step cluster analysis. Further, cluster segmentation based on visitors’ demographics, perceived value, satisfaction and loyalty was conducted. Decision tree analysis based on recursive partitioning algorithm was used to validate the clusters.

Findings

A two-step cluster analysis identified two distinct segments and named those as elite and informal visitors based on hedonic motivation. The cluster scores show that the elite group had the best ratings on social status, socialization and family harmony. On the other hand, the informal group had top scores for wine tasting, enjoyment, change from routine and the festival atmosphere. Decision tree analysis results indicate that social status enjoyment and taste motives differentiate an informal group from the elite group.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted in a wine festival held in a single location. To assess the strength of the results, case studies in other regions will be of importance.

Originality/value

This study extended the knowledge of the wine festival by adapting hedonic motivation as a basis for wine festival segmentation. Besides, this study’s empirical findings would greatly benefit wine festival organizers to formulate an appropriate marketing strategy to target each wine festival visitors’ cluster based on the differentiating factors obtained from the decision tree modelling.
COVID-19 and domestic violence: impact on mental health
Authors: Ali Parveen , Rogers Michaela , Heward-Belle Susan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the mental health impact of domestic violence and abuse within the context of the global pandemic. This paper will explore factors contributing to rising rates of violence and mental health problems exacerbated by stressors related to the global pandemic, including public health measures implemented to prevent the spread of coronovirus disease (COVID-19). It will also explore what can be learnt from the current pandemic situation to prevent domestic violence and abuse in future emergency situations and pandemics and will provide suggestions, for policy, practice and future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is informed by discussion between authors as experts in the field, their reflection on the current situation and review of available literature. Synthesising information from best practice guidance across the global literature, this paper proposes a best practice framework using an ecological approach to address intimate partner violence in times of pandemic, crisis or natural disaster.

Findings

This paper aimed to explore the mental health impact of domestic violence and abuse within the context of the global pandemic.

Originality/value

This paper provides an analysis of available literature and explains impact of COVID-19 on domestic violence and abuse.
“That’s the way my Wednesdays always go”: reverse-order instructions insufficient to mitigate schema-consistent errors in alibi generation
Authors: Eastwood Joseph , Snow Mark D. , Freedman Stuart
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to assess the ability of innocent suspects to produce accurate alibis, as well as to identify procedures police interviewers can use to increase the probability of generating accurate alibis.

Design/methodology/approach

In Study 1, 54 university students had a lecture (target event) end at either the normal time (schema group) or 25 min early (non-schema group) and then attempted to generate an alibi for the target event after either a short, moderate or long delay. In Study 2, 20 students had a lecture end 25 min early and underwent an interview regarding their whereabouts using a reverse-order interview technique designed to disrupt schema usage.

Findings

Results from Study 1 suggested that participants relied on schemas to generate their alibis, which led to false alibis for the non-schema group, and this reliance was more pronounced as the delay between event and recall increased. In Study 2, all but one participant produced a false alibi, suggesting reverse order is ineffective in increasing accurate recall in alibi situations.

Practical implications

Results from the two studies revealed that people can produce false alibis easily in mock police interviews – a finding that appears to result from the reliance on schemas. These findings highlight the relative ease with which innocent individuals can produce false alibis. Further research, specific to the alibi generation process, is needed to give police interviewers the tools to produce more accurate and detailed alibis.

Originality/value

This research provides additional evidence regarding the role of schemas in alibi generation. Contrary to findings from the eyewitness area, reverse-order instructions failed to disrupt schema reliance and do not appear to be an effective alibi-elicitation technique.
Corporate social responsibility and tax avoidance: the case of French companies
Authors: Abid Souhir , Dammak Saîda
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to shed light on the effect of tax avoidance on corporate social responsibility performance. It also investigates whether audit quality affects tax avoidance practices by socially responsible performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a sample of French non-financial companies over the period 2005 to 2016, this paper uses panel data regressions. The authors apply generalized least square panel regression to overcome autocorrelation and heteroscedasticity problems. For further robustness, this paper runs instrumental variable regressions using the three-stage instrument variable method (three-stage least square).

Findings

The results show that firms with high CSR scores are more likely to engage in aggressive tax avoidance. The findings also show that firms audited by high-quality auditors are more likely to get involved in CSR for hedging against the potential consequences of aggressive tax avoidance practices.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are consistent with risk management theory, which suggests that firm’s hedge against any reputational risks that might arise from avoiding taxes by engaging more in CSR.

Practical implications

Results have implications for policymakers in that CSR firms audited by high-quality auditors may engage in CSR to overcome any negative reactions that could be caused as a result of tax avoidance. Thus, they need to be cautious about managers’ opportunistic behavior and enhance monitoring to enforce social compliance and to be tax compliant.

Originality/value

This paper extends the existing literature by examining the effect of audit quality on the relationship between CSR performance and corporate tax avoidance. Audit quality is deemed to be an important governance feature that is likely to constraint managerial opportunistic behaviors. Audit quality, along with CSR performance, are associated with a higher level of tax avoidance.
Hotel virtual reality advertising: a presence-mediated model and gender effects
Authors: Lyu Jiaying , Leung Xi , Bai Billy , Stafford Marla
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effectiveness of two types of hotel commercials [virtual reality (VR) versus traditional commercials] by proposing and testing a presence-mediated model along with gender effects.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design is used to test the proposed hypotheses. Data were collected in China, and the Shangri-La hotel brand was chosen. University students were randomly assigned to watch either a hotel VR commercial or a hotel traditional video commercial. One HTC Vive VR headset was provided to those participants in the hotel VR commercial group.

Findings

The study revealed that VR commercials generate a higher level of vividness and interactivity among customers, which positively influence attitudes toward the ad, brand attitude and booking intention. Moreover, the findings showed that in the virtual environment, women, as compared to men, are influenced more by VR.

Originality/value

This research is the first to bring the presence model and gender effects together to better understand the effectiveness of VR in hospitality advertising research.
The impact of the board of directors and the Shariah board on the financial soundness of Islamic banks
Authors: Khalil Afef
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the relationship between the board of directors (BODs) and the Shariah board (SB) and assess its impact on the financial soundness of Islamic banks (IBs).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a regression model to test the effects of the relationship between the BOD and the SB on the financial soundness of IBs by applying a panel data set of 61 IBs, covering 18 countries from 2008 to 2014. The dependent variable is the Z-score indicator. To test the robustness of the results, the authors use dependent variables other than the Z-score [A rating of Capital adequacy (C), Asset quality (A), Management (M), Earnings (E), Liquidity (L), and Sensitivity (S) (CAMELS)] for 2018.

Findings

The results show that meetings between directors and SB members significantly reduce the financial soundness of IBs. The relationship between the BOD and the SB increases conflicts of interest and agency costs. However, a representation of the SB at the BOD meetings and vice versa does not affect financial soundness. The Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions and the Islamic Financial Services Board corporate governance standards do not require the presence of the SB representative at the BOD meetings or vice versa, which justifies the results.

Practical implications

This study attempts to fill gaps in the literature by investigating the impact of meetings between the SB and the BOD on the financial soundness of IBs across the world. The results suggest that the BOD’s frequent interference in the affairs of the SB can have adverse effects on IBs and should be avoided.

Originality/value

The authors depart from the previous literature by using three new characteristics that link the BOD to the SB. Methodologically, the authors use three new measures to evaluate this relationship and its effect on the financial soundness of IBs. This study is unique because it explores the comparative impacts of the presence of a SB representative at the BOD meetings and a director at the SB meetings and meetings between the two governing boards of IBs.
Economy-led sustainable touristic city: the case of Surakarta, Indonesia
Authors: Hasyimi Valid , Azizalrahman Hossny
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper attempts to examine drivers of tourism development by affording a framework that sustains economic growth and protects the local environment. It develops evaluative and predictive models to measure city performance. Further, a strategy-based model of low carbon cities (SMLC) is used to demonstrate possible tourism development scenarios. The model was applied to the city of Surakarta to operationalize city's transformation towards sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology is constructed on three interrelated components: theoretical framework, analytical methods and SWOT. First, the authors have initiated this study by an understanding of linkages between planning and tourism. Second, the SMLC has been used to test sustainable tourism in the city of Surakarta. Third, Strength-Weakness-Opportunity-Threat (SWOT) analysis was applied to formulize the recommendations.

Findings

When evaluated by the static SMLC model, the city of Surakarta was categorized as an unsustainable touristic city. However, when the dynamic SMLC was applied, the city of Surakarta was categorized as a sustainable touristic city under a high economy scenario. By reason of the methodological and analytical frameworks and the dynamic SMLC, the city of Surakarta could be promoted to a sustainable touristic city after applying opportunity-seeking strategy and policies.

Practical implications

The paper concludes with policy implications to realign city plan and support sustainable tourism development in the city of Surakarta.

Originality/value

This paper attempts to develop a framework for sustainable tourism as it operates in the city of Surakarta by (1) introducing the sustainable touristic city concept, (2) definition and characters, (3) evaluative and predictive models using the SMLC to measure city performance of the city of Surakarta and (4) rigorous and relevant insight into the magnitude of the benefits of tourism.
Social responsibility-related governance disclosure: exploration of managerial perspective in a developing country
Authors: Kamal Yousuf
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore corporate managers’ perspectives regarding the disclosure (non-disclosure) of social- and environment-related governance information.

Design/methodology/approach

Insights into corporate managers’ perspectives are explored by conducting in-depth personal interviews with senior corporate executives of textile and garment companies in Bangladesh.

Findings

This study establishes that the use of traditional media, such as corporate annual reports, for corporate social responsibility (CSR)-related governance information disclosure can be limited in particular situations, including the case of garment companies, wherein the provision of extensive governance information is necessary, and the information users find special purpose reports, e.g. social audit reports, more comprehensive, credible, and beneficial than annual reports. The results reveal that corporate managers of Bangladeshi supply companies are motivated by financial returns, and they aspire to ensure that buyers (powerful stakeholders) obtain the required CSR-related governance information; this is neither driven by corporate accountability nor transparency. Upon using the managerial branch of the stakeholder theory, the result of this study shows that corporate managers are influenced by powerful stakeholders when they make decisionsvis-à-visthe provision of CSR-related governance information.

Originality/value

This study provides an implication for academics and practitioners toward understanding that corporate managers often provide substantive disclosures of CSR-related governance information through alternative media that have not been previously documented in the literature. Herein, a metaphor – veil – is used to illustrate the visibility gap between societal expectations and managers’ perspectives.
Mothers' discourse during shared reading of books relating to ‘positive’ and ‘negative’ emotions in different genres
Authors: Schapira Rotem , Bergman Deitcher Deborah , Aram Dorit
Published: July 2021

Background

The current study provides information about differences in parent–child discourse during shared book reading (SBR) surrounding narrative and didactic book genres about ‘positive’ (e.g. love, happiness) and ‘negative’ (e.g. anger and sadness) emotions. Research shows that characteristics of different children's book genres impact discourse during SBR, but narrative and didactic books have not been examined. Children's books often relate to the characters' inner mental and emotional states. Research has not explored parent–child conversations during SBR regarding different types of emotions, yet studies on other discourse contexts reveal that parents discuss ‘positive’ emotions differently than ‘negative’ emotions.

Methods

Participants were 26 mothers of 5‐ to 6‐year‐olds (M = 64.30 SD = 6.27). There were 18 boys and 8 girls. Eleven dyads received a narrative and didactic book on ‘positive’ emotions, and 15 dyads received a narrative and didactic book on ‘negative’ emotions. Interactions were video‐recorded and analysed. We examined the number of turns, initiations, general utterances and mental–emotional utterances.

Results

Primary results revealed that mothers used more general utterances when reading both narrative and didactic books surrounding ‘negative’ emotions compared with books surrounding ‘positive’ emotions. Mothers used more mental–emotional utterances with a didactic book on ‘negative’ emotions compared with a narrative on ‘negative’ emotions and with a didactic book on ‘positive’ emotions compared to a narrative on ‘positive’ emotions.

Conclusions

This study highlights the importance of text selection for SBR and how it may impact the discourse. Mothers used didactic books for detailed conversations with their children. The simpler structure of the book may have facilitated the discourse about emotions. Mothers related more to anger and sadness compared with love and happiness. This may indicate that they feel they have to explain and teach their children about ‘negative’ emotions and how to cope with them, whereas positive emotions may be more implicitly understood.
Working online due to the COVID‐19 pandemic: a research and literature review
Authors: Merchant John
Published: July 2021

Given the contemporary situation of many analysts in the world now being forced to work online due to the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic, it is important to review the working online issue. Substantial debate over previous years has questioned whether a genuine analytic process can unfold through online work. This debate is reviewed with the conclusion that such a process is not necessarily precluded. Research outcomes are then reviewed to highlight those things that can facilitate positive outcomes when working online. These cover the ‘online disinhibition effect’, the therapeutic alliance, particular ways of using the screen, focussing on trauma, the importance of self‐awareness, knowing the predictors of mental health, certain potential positives of isolation/quarantine and psychotherapy interventions that may be currently needed. Final recommendations and suggestions are then presented as in the diagnosis issue, professional development and guidelines to do with practical and ethical considerations.
The technologically‐mediated self: reflections on the container and field of telecommunications
Authors: Cwik August J.
Published: July 2021

This paper contains reflections on the use of the imagination in technologically‐mediated therapy and analysis. As part of the individuation process the psyche is seen as needing to adapt to new technological ways of communicating. The notion of a technologically‐mediated self is posited describing a self which can only be apprehended through, and by, the use of telecommunications. This self is seen as identical to the in‐person self, a subset, or superset of it. There is a revisioning of our notions of the container and the field in this work performed through technological‐mediation. The need to engage the imagination in approaching this kind of work is emphasized in order to create an imaginal play‐space in which the body will be deeply affected. Some thoughts on how the process of individuation might look through such analytic work is presented.
Coronavirus: does its activation of archetypes of evil cause added psychological suffering?
Authors: van den Berg‐Cook Nancy
Published: July 2021

Fear and grief caused by the pandemic have produced a powerful unconscious narrative in the collective psyche that the coronavirus is driven by an innately evil, and possibly divine, force. The resulting archetypal dimension of fear causes an extra layer of psychological suffering in individuals. This paper discusses how and why this narrative was created and why it is so compelling by looking at 1) the myth‐making nature of the human psyche, 2) the psychodynamics of fear that drive the narrative, 3) the properties of the coronavirus and the pandemic that activate negative poles of some archetypes, in particular, archetypes of evil, and 4) asking how analytical psychology can help ease psychological suffering caused by these negative narratives, where one possibility is to invoke the transcendent function. The author’s personal experiences as both biochemist and analytical psychologist elucidate how the transcendent function can promote healing.
The archetype of the apocalypse. Analysing the pandemics of racism, COVID‐19 and climate change
Authors: Grevatt William K.
Published: July 2021

What we are witnessing in the present time in human history, in the 2020’s, is a vortex of intersecting pandemics – jolting revelations that are unfolding with a terrific energy and force – so much so that we cannot ignore them or escape them. These include the world‐wide pandemics of racism, COVID‐19 and climate change. This paper argues that all of these swirling pandemics are manifestations of the archetype of the apocalypse, which is constellating now in a very powerful way. Any one of these phenomena could swallow humanity whole as a species. Together they represent a seemingly overwhelming challenge for us to meet over the next century of life on earth. If humanity cannot meet the challenge of these combined negative forces, it could simply perish. A multi‐layered intersecting set of challenges such as this has never yet occurred in human history. We must therefore be very alert to what is going on, and as to how we can consciously mediate these threats, both individually and collectively. It also presents an unprecedented opportunity for humanity to evolve and grow psychologically both individually and collectively, nationally and globally.
Go Set a Watchman: revealing phantom narratives and shattering projections in the era of Black Lives Matter
Authors: Behnen Pamela A.
Published: July 2021

Harper Lee’s novels, To Kill a Mockingbird and Go Set a Watchman, are examined through the lens of reader‐response theory and the Jungian concept of the cultural complex or phantom narratives. Socio‐historical context includes the American civil rights movement of the 60’s as well as Black Lives Matter. The clinical and institutional implications are briefly considered.
Things fall apart. The cultural complex in contemporary times1
Authors: Morgan Helen
Published: July 2021

These extraordinary months due to COVID‐19 and the Black Lives Matter protests, set as they are against a backdrop of the increasingly worrying climate emergency, have brought fear, anxiety and discord across the globe. But we have also experienced a deepening of our understanding of our connectedness, protests against injustice, expressions of social concern and a demand for change. The concept of the cultural complex as developed by Singer & Kimbles (2004) offers a helpful means of connecting the psychology of the individual psyche and the political phenomena of power relations. Using a small example to illustrate how it might operate at a local level, I suggest that a fundamental shift is taking place raising profound levels of anxiety as we move from the known to the unknown. The bipolar nature of these complexes means the extremes are surfacing bringing fears of the very real possibility of more entrenched attacks on democracy from the far right and the hunkering down behind armed borders. But there is also hope that different ways of living together may be developing from the ground up, ways that are rooted in our sense of interdependence – with each other and our planetary home.