bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitigating overinvestment in Japanese zombie firms: the role of foreign ownership and earnings quality
Authors: Ishiguro Takehide , Yamada Akihiro
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the relationship between foreign ownership, earnings quality and overinvestment in Japanese zombie firms.

Design/methodology/approach

The study makes use of data from Japanese firms listed on the first section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange from 2009 to 2019. The study employs logistic and multinomial logistic models to test whether the overinvestment behavior of zombie firms is mitigated by foreign shareholdings and earnings quality.

Findings

The results show that (1) zombie firms tend to overinvest; (2) an increase in foreign ownership mitigates the overinvestment of zombie firms and (3) the mitigation of zombie firms' overinvestment by foreign ownership is stronger with higher earnings quality.

Originality/value

This study extends the discussion of earnings quality and investment efficiency to the zombie firm setting. Previous studies in accounting suggest that high earnings quality enhances firms' investment efficiency. The findings suggest that both a change in ownership structure and high-quality accounting information are necessary to mitigate the inefficiency of zombie firms.
Executive compensation, risk and performance: evidence from the USA
Authors: Bouteska Ahmed , Sharif Taimur , Abedin Mohammad Zoynul
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Given the serious question raised by the subprime of the 2008 global financial crisis over the rising practices of excessive rewarding of executives in the USA and European firms, the executive pay-performance nexus has emerged as a popular topic of debate in the contemporary corporate finance research. Conducted mostly on the Anglo-Saxon contexts, research outcomes have been inconclusive and dichotomous. Considering this backdrop, this study aims to investigate the endogenous relationship between executive compensation and risk taking in the context of the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a large sample of non-financial firms from 2010 to 2020 based on panel data and two-stage least square regression. In this study, the riskier corporate decision is measured as book leverage and ratio of R&D expense to total assets. Chief executive officers’ (CEO) experience and age are used as instrumental variables, and these are expected to influence compensation incentives and, hence, affect firm riskiness indirectly. Firm size, return on assets and CEO turnover are reported to affect compensation and corporate decisions, therefore, included as control variables. Given that higher executive compensation is related to riskier corporate decision in firms, this study incorporates total wealth (i.e. accumulated equity related compensation) as an additional proxy of compensation, and this selection is justifiable by the perfect contracting notion of the agency theory.

Findings

The results of this study show a significant positive and increasing nexus among compensation and riskier corporate decisions. Besides, the compensation level proxied through the percentage of each form of compensation in total compensation is very important as greater equity and greater salary diminishes risk taking.

Practical implications

The outcomes of this study have useful implications for firm stakeholders and policymakers.

Originality/value

The level of pay measured by the percentage of each type of compensation in total compensation is of utmost importance as it can increase or decrease risk taking in corporate decisions.
System for tracking and managing metallic formworks adopted in cast-in-place concrete wall systems by integrating IoT and BIM
Authors: Araújo Caroline Silva , Ferreira Emerson de Andrade Marques , Costa Dayana Bastos
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Tracking physical resources at the construction site can generate information to support effective decision-making and building production control. However, the methods for conventional tracking usually offer low reliability. This study aims to propose the integrated Smart Twins 4.0 to track and manage metallic formworks used in cast-in-place concrete wall systems using internet of things (IoT) (operationalized by radio frequency identification [RFID]) and building information modeling (BIM), focusing on increasing quality and productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

Design science research is the research approach, including an exploratory study to map the constructive system, the integrated system development, an on-site pilot implementation in a residential project and a performance evaluation based on acquired data and the perception of the project’s production team.

Findings

In all rounds of requests, Smart Twins 4.0 registered and presented the status from the formworks and the work progress of buildings in complete correspondence with the physical progress providing information to support decision-making during operation. Moreover, analyses of the system infrastructure and implementation details can drive researchers regarding future IoT and BIM implementation in real construction sites.

Originality/value

The primary contribution is the system proposal, centralized into a mobile app that contains a Web-based virtual model to receive data in real time during construction phases and solve a real problem. The paper describes Smart Twins 4.0 development and its requirements for tracking physical resources considering theoretical and practical previous research regarding RFID, IoT and BIM.
Digital growth mindset and academic performance of business students in China: the role of gender
Authors: Meng Xiangju , Hu Zhenfang , Jia Dan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the impact of a digital growth mindset on the academic performance of business students in China as well as the role of gender in this relationship. The study provides feasible ways to foster such a mindset to ensure quality in business education.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs a survey to examine the associations among digital growth mindset, gender and the academic performance of business students in China within the context of online learning. The authors collected data from 533 students who were enrolled in two online business courses at a Chinese university. The data were paired and analyzed through regression analysis.

Findings

The empirical results show that digital growth mindset has a positive influence on the academic performance of business students in China. The relationship is stronger for male business students than for their female counterparts.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to examine the concept of digital growth mindset and its significance in Chinese business education. Through the analysis of paired data on digital growth mindset and academic performance, this study makes theoretical contributions to the literature on growth mindset, gender differences and academic success. Additionally, it has practical implications for quality assurance in business education in developing countries by offering feasible approaches to cultivate a growth mindset among students.
The exchange rates volatilities impact on the stock and real estate markets in South Africa
Authors: Naidoo Deevarshan , Moores-Pitt Peter Brian Denton , Akande Joseph Olorunfemi
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Understanding which market to invest in for a well-diversified portfolio is fundamental in economies that are highly vulnerable to fluctuations in exchange rates. Extant literature that has considered phenomenon hardly juxtapose the markets. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of exchange rate volatility on the Stock and Real Estate market of South Africa. The essence is to determine whether the fluctuations in the exchange rate influence the markets prices differently.

Design/methodology/approach

The Generalised Autoregressive Conditional Heteroskedasticity [GARCH (1.1)] model was used in establishing the effect of exchange rate volatility on both markets. This study used monthly South African data between 2000 and 2020.

Findings

The results of this study showed that increased exchange rate volatility increases stock market volatility but decreases real-estate market volatility, both of which revealed weak influences from the exchange rates volatility.

Practical implications

This study has implication for policy in using the exchange rate as a policy tool to attract foreign portfolio investment. The weak volatility transmission from the exchange rate market to the stock and real estate market indicates that there is prospect for foreign investors to diversify their investments in these two markets.

Originality/value

This study investigated which of the assets market, stock or housing market do better in volatile exchange rate conditions in South Africa.
From novice to expert: advancing step-by-step simulation guideline for urban logistics with an open-source simulation tool
Authors: Baalsrud Hauge Jannicke , Jeong Yongkuk
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This research analyses challenges faced by users at various levels in planning and designing participatory simulation models of cities. It aims to identify issues that hinder experts from maximising the effectiveness of the SUMO tool. Additionally, evaluating current methods highlights their strengths and weaknesses, facilitating the use of participatory simulation advantages to address these issues. Finally, the presented case studies illustrate the diversity of user groups and emphasise the need for further development of blueprints.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research, action research was used to assess and improve a step-by-step guideline. The guideline's conceptual design is based on stakeholder analysis results from those involved in developing urban logistics scenarios and feedback from potential users. A two-round process of application and refinement was conducted to evaluate and enhance the guideline's initial version.

Findings

The guidelines still demand an advanced skill level in simulation modelling, rendering them less effective for the intended audience. However, they have proven beneficial in a simulation course for students, emphasising the importance of developing accurate conceptual models and the need for careful implementation.

Originality/value

This paper introduces a step-by-step guideline designed to tackle challenges in modelling urban logistics scenarios using SUMO simulation software. The guideline's effectiveness was tested and enhanced through experiments involving diverse groups of students, varying in their experience with simulation modelling. This approach demonstrates the guideline's applicability and adaptability across different skill levels.
Study on the subsurface characteristics of textured surfaces under EHL condition
Authors: Li Zhi , Du YiYuan , Xu Zhiming , Qiao Xuqian , Zhang Hong
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of surface texture on the subsurface characteristics of contact interfaces under elastohydrodynamic lubrication condition. As a typical contact form of gears and bearings, the optimization of friction characteristics at the elastohydrodynamic lubrication (EHL) interface has attracted the attention of scholars. Laser surface texturing is a feasible optimization solution, but there have been concerns about whether the surface texture of high-pair parts will affect their fatigue life.

Design/methodology/approach

To examine the impact of texture preparation on the subsurface characteristics of high-pair interfaces under EHL conditions, a point contact EHL model is developed that takes into account the effect of textured surface topography. The pressure and thickness of the oil film are calculated as input parameters under different loads and entrainment velocities. The finite element method is used to simulate the impact of textures with varying diameters, densities and depths on the subsurface characteristics of the elastohydrodynamic interface. According to ISO 25178, analyze the relationship between 3D topography parameters and subsurface characteristics and study the trend of friction characteristics and subsurface characteristics based on the results of the ball on disc friction tests.

Findings

The outcomes suggest that under different rotational velocity and load conditions, the textured surfaces exhibit improved friction reduction effects; however, the creation of textures can result in significant subsurface plastic deformation and local peeling. The existence of texture makes the larger stress zone in the subsurface layer closer to the surface, leading to fatigue failure near the surface. Reasonable design parameters can help enhance the attributes of the subsurface. A smaller Sa and a Str greater than 0.5 can achieve ideal subsurface properties on the textured surface.

Originality/value

This paper investigates the influence of surface texture on the friction and subsurface characteristics of EHL interfaces and analyzes the impact of surface texture on interface contact performance while achieving lubrication improvement functional characteristics. The results provide theoretical support for the optimization design and functional regulation of surface texture in EHL interfaces.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-10-2023-0324/
A resistance torque compensation algorithm based on Luenberger observer for minimally invasive surgical robot
Authors: Sang Hongqiang , Huang Fang , Lu Wei , Han Rui , Liu Fen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The patient-side manipulator (PSM) achieves high torque capability by combining harmonic servo system with high reduction ratio and low torque motor. However, high reduction ratio can increase inertia and decrease compliance of the manipulator. To enhance the backdrivability of the minimally invasive surgical robot, this paper aims to propose a resistance torque compensation algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

A resistance torque compensation algorithm based on dynamics and Luenberger observer is proposed. The dynamics are established, considering joint flexibility and an improved Stribeck friction model. The dynamic parameters are experimentally identified by using the least squares method. With the advantages of clear structure, simple implementation and fast solution speed, the Luenberger observer is selected to estimate the unmeasured dynamic information of PSM and realize the resistance torque compensation.

Findings

For low-speed surgical robots, the centrifugal force term in the dynamic model can be simplified to reduce computational complexity. Joint flexibility and an improved Stribeck friction model can be considered to improve the accuracy of the dynamic model. Experiment results show that parameter identification and estimated results of the Luenberger observer are accurate. The backdrivability of the PSM is enhanced in ease and smoothness.

Originality/value

This algorithm provides potential application prospects for surgical robots to maintain high torque while remaining compliant. Meanwhile, the enhanced backdrivability of the manipulator helps to improve the safety of the preoperative manual adjustment.
Enterprise social media as enablers of employees' agility: the impact of work stress and enterprise social media visibility
Authors: Pitafi Abdul Hameed
Published: January 2024

Purpose

According to extensive analysis, employee agility is influenced by teamwork, coordination and the organizational environment. However, less consideration has been given to the role of work stressors (challenge, hindrance) in influencing employee agility. To address this research gap, this study sheds light on how the use of enterprise social media (ESM) for social and work purposes influences employee agility through work stressors.

Design/methodology/approach

This research also explores how ESM visibility enhances the interaction between work stressors and employee agility by using primary data obtained from Chinese workers. A total of 377 entries were analyzed using AMOS 24.10 tools. All the hypotheses were tested using structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

The findings revealed that ESM use (social and work) negatively impacts challenge and hindrance work stressors. The results also reflect that challenge stressors have a significant impact on employee agility, whereas hindrance stressors are negatively related to it. Furthermore, the outcome also indicated that increased ESM visibility reinforces the connection between challenge stressors and employee agility. However, ESM visibility did not indicate a significant moderating impact on the link between hindrance stressors and employee agility.

Originality/value

This study describes how ESM usage effects agility of stressed employees. This research also explores how ESM visibility improves the interaction between work stressors and employee agility. The study results contribute to growing research on social media and employee agility and suggest several points of guidance for managers.
Accounting academic leaders’ perceptions on New Zealand’s performance-based research funding system
Authors: Manasseh Sharon , Low Mary , Calderwood Richard
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Universities globally have faced the introduction of research performance assessment systems that provide monetary and ranking rewards based on publication outputs. This study aims to seek an understanding of the implementation of performance-based research funding (PBRF) and its impact on the heads of departments (HoDs) and accounting academics in New Zealand (NZ) tertiary institutions. The study explores NZ accounting academics’ experiences and their workload; the relationship between teaching and research in the accounting discipline and any issues and concerns affecting new and emerging accounting researchers because of PBRF.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying an institutional theoretical lens, this paper explores accounting HoDs’ perceptions concerning the PBRF system’s impact on their academic staff. The research used semi-structured interviews to collect data from NZ’s eight universities.

Findings

The key findings posit that many institutional processes, some more coercive in nature, whereas others were normative and mimetic, have been put in place to ensure that academics are able to meet the PBRF requirements. HoDs suggest that their staff understand the importance of research, but that PBRF is a challenge to new and emerging researchers and pose threats to their recruitment. New academics must “hit the ground running” as they must demonstrate not only teaching abilities but also already have a track record of research publications; all in all, a daunting experience for new academics to overcome. There is also a teaching and research disconnect. Furthermore, many areas where improvements can be made in the design of this measurement tool remain.

Originality/value

The PBRF system has significantly impacted on accounting academics. Central university research systems were established that subsequently applied coercive institutional pressures onto line managers to ensure that their staff performed. This finding offers scope for future research to explore a better PBRF that measures and rewards research productivity but without the current system’s unintended negative consequences.
How brand loyalty and its marketing activities affect Japanese fashion companies' financial performance
Authors: Miao Miao , Go I. , Linyuan Cui , Ikeda Kayo , Numata Hideho
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To investigate (1) the relationship between young adults' behavioural brand loyalty (BBL) and Japanese fashion companies' financial performance (FP) and (2) FP improvement from the perspectives of social media brand engagement (BE) and loyalty programmes (LPs) by applying the complexity theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methodology was employed by combining qualitative and quantitative approaches to examine the prediction of outcomes by various variables in a realistic context. The integrated model associated BE and LPs with BBL and FP, which are essential for fashion companies. We selected 14 fashion brands belonging to 14 publicly traded Japanese fashion companies and surveyed 183 Japanese consumers (aged 18–25 years) who chose these brands as their favourites, engaged with the brands and participated in LPs.

Findings

The findings reveal the positive and negative effects of the variables (BE and LP) on the outcomes (short- and long-term FP). They offer marketing implications regarding brand strategy and financial improvement by considering various combinations of causal factors and complex situations, such as the fashion brands' and consumers' characteristics.

Originality/value

Existing empirical studies consider consumers' symmetric reactions to the benefits and losses from variables (BE, LP and BBL) but do not realistically reveal the negative and positive effects on outcomes (FP). This study addresses this gap by applying the complexity theory and offers multiple solutions to target different consumer types to predict high FP.
Does workplace ostracism lead to workplace withdrawal? Testing the moderating-mediating effects of rumination and mindfulness in Indian hospitality industry
Authors: Srivastava Shalini , Khan Muskan , Kumari Arpana , Jain Ajay Kumar
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Taking the support of social capital theory and conservation of resource theory, the present study explores the mediating role of rumination and moderating role of mindfulness in the relationship of workplace ostracism (WO) and workplace withdrawal (WW).

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected in two waves from 467 employees working in hotels located in Delhi NCR region of India. The hypothesised relationships were investigated by macro-PROCESS (Hayes, 2013).

Findings

The results found a mediating impact of rumination on WO and WW relationship. It further supported the moderating effect of mindfulness in weakening the association between WO and WW via rumination.

Practical implications

This study identified mindfulness as an essential mechanism by which WO may be regulated to control employee's tendency to ruminate. Rumination may initially be prevented in organisations by regulating the primary effect of WO on employees' decisions for WW.

Originality/value

By linking the research model with the social capital theory, the study has contributed to the existing body of knowledge. The study is the first of its kind in India to examine the impact of hypothesised associations on the hotel industry. The findings of the study would help the industry in understanding the role of mindfulness in reducing aberrant behaviours at workplace.
Unleashing the findings: exploring the interaction between intellectual capital and e-banking proactiveness
Authors: Alsmadi Ayman Abdalmajeed
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to present a research model to investigate the potential impact of human capital, structural capital and social capital on e-banking proactiveness. In addition, it reveals the potential impact of e-banking proactiveness on competitive intelligence and competitive agility. Also, it aims to explore the impact of competitive intelligence on competitive advantage and competitive agility. Finally, the impact of competitive agility on competitive advantage will be examined.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to gather data, a questionnaire was prepared and administered to 211 respondents in Jordan. The research model and hypotheses were then assessed using Structural Equation Modeling – Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS).

Findings

The study demonstrated a significant impact of human capital, structural capital and social capital on e-banking proactiveness. The findings confirm that e-banking proactiveness significantly impacts competitive intelligence and achieving competition. Moreover, the findings confirm that competitive intelligence significantly impacts competitive agility. Also, the findings revealed a substantial relationship between competitive intelligence and competitive advantage. Finally, the results discovered that competitive agility significantly impacts competitive advantage.

Originality/value

The research gives valuable insights into the elements that drive e-banking proactiveness, which can beautify the proactiveness literature is well-known. By uncovering the position of intellectual capital in fostering proactiveness, this examination contributes to deeper information on the way financial institutions can successfully respond to market modifications, patron needs and technological advancements. Future scholars can build upon these findings to discover proactiveness in different sectors and industries, thereby broadening the understanding of proactive behaviors throughout numerous contexts.
Corporate reputation, cost of capital and the moderating role of economic development: international evidence
Authors: Houqe Muhammad Nurul , Khan Habib Zaman , Moses Olayinka , Elias Arun
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the impact of corporate reputation (hereafter CR) and the degree of economic development on firms’ cost of capital remains unresolved. This study addresses these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a global sample across 20 countries, the study investigates the discrete and joint effects of CR and jurisdictional economic development on the cost of equity (COE) and cost of debt (COD) capital. The analysis encompasses a dual data set, comprising 1,308 observations for COE and 1,223 observations for COD, allowing for a comprehensive exploration of these dynamics.

Findings

The findings indicate that CR leads to a reduction in the cost of capital for reputable firms. Nevertheless, the extent of this decrease varies per type of capital and firm’s reputation level and is contingent upon the economic development level within the firm’s jurisdiction. Particularly noteworthy is the moderating effect of economic development on CR, which shows that COE capital tends to be lower for reputable firms operating in economically developed jurisdictions. Albeit, this is not the case for COD capital for reputable firms in similarly developed jurisdictions.

Practical implications

This study illustrates that effective CR management, aimed at reducing the cost of capital, necessitates a combination of the firm’s unique competitive advantage and the economic development context of its jurisdiction to truly achieve its intended goal.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first global study to explore the impact of CR on both COE and COD capital. Furthermore, this study is primarily towards understanding the moderating role of economic development in the relationship between CR and cost of capital.
Building career capital in policing in Australia through women's leadership programmes
Authors: Heilemann Barbara , Parker Polly
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper highlights how career capital is accrued through three ways of knowing in a women’s leadership programme (WLP) in an Australian State Police Department. A shift in focus to building capability rather than addressing gaps in participants' abilities was enhanced through the unique use of sponsors and positive psychology interventions.

Design/methodology/approach

A longitudinal study, which comprised 31 semi-structured in-depth interviews and focus groups, and a survey with participants eight months after the interviews, assessed the impact of enhanced skills, connections and qualifications on extant role performance.

Findings

The WLP enhanced three key components of career capital.

Originality/value

The authors' study extends extant knowledge in seven key ways related to WLPs: (1) reaffirms the benefits for police, (2) developing or enhancing career capital, (3) accruing women’s career capital in policing, (4) pedagogical benefits for WLPs, (5) articulating outcomes of developing career capital, (6) the uniqueness of allocating sponsors and (7) extending empirical studies demonstrating synergies within the intelligent career framework.
Corporate governance and green innovation: international evidence
Authors: Makpotche Marcellin , Bouslah Kais , M’Zali Bouchra
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to exploit Tobin’s Q model of investment to examine the relationship between corporate governance and green innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a sample of 3,896 firms from 2002 to 2021, covering 45 countries worldwide. The authors adopt Tobin’s Q model to conceptualize the relationship between corporate governance and investment in green research and development (R&D). The authors argue that agency costs and financial market frictions affect corporate investment and are fundamental factors in R&D activities. By limiting agency conflicts, effective governance favors efficiency, facilitates access to external financing and encourages green innovation. The authors analyzed the causal effect by using the system-generalized method of moments (system-GMM).

Findings

The results reveal that the better the corporate governance, the more the firm invests in green R&D. A 1%-point increase in the corporate governance ratings leads to an increase in green R&D expenses to the total asset ratio of about 0.77 percentage points. In addition, an increase in the score of each dimension (strategy, management and shareholder) of corporate governance results in an increase in the probability of green product innovation. Finally, green innovation is positively related to firm environmental performance, including emission reduction and resource use efficiency.

Practical implications

The findings provide implications to support managers and policymakers on how to improve sustainability through corporate governance. Governance mechanisms will help resolve agency problems and, in turn, encourage green innovation.

Social implications

Understanding the impact of corporate governance on green innovation may help firms combat climate change, a crucial societal concern. The present study helps achieve one of the precious UN’s sustainable development goals: Goal 13 on climate action.

Originality/value

This study goes beyond previous research by adopting Tobin’s Q model to examine the relationship between corporate governance and green R&D investment. Overall, the results suggest that effective corporate governance is necessary for environmental efficiency.
Advancing Research Methodologies in Management: Revisiting Debates, Setting New Grounds for Pluralism
Authors: Christofi Michael , Ηadjielias Elias , Hughes Mathew , Plakoyiannaki Emmanuella
Published: January 2024

The purpose of this introduction and Special Issue (SI) is to offer a unique and timely opportunity to explore, revisit and critically examine key methodological debates and tensions with the purpose of advancing diversity and novel theorizing in the field. We join voices with the authors of the five papers of this SI to problematize taken‐for‐granted assumptions and research traditions and pave the way for inclusive and novel theorizing in management scholarship. We revisit four long‐lasting debates that hinder methodological pluralism and diversity in management scholarship: (a) the quantitative‐qualitative research divide, (b) the legitimacy of mixed‐methods research, (c) the rigour versus relevance tension and (d) the lack of methodological innovation. We suggest that these debates are at least partly counterproductive because they create silos and opposing camps, thereby inhibiting an appreciation of different worldviews and collective learning. The dominance of functionalism and positivism in quantitative research and the inappropriate transfer of quantitative logics in qualitative research have led to a lack of diversity in empirical methodologies. The field's limited methodological diversity is further proliferated by a strict adherence to quality standards that have inadvertently promoted homogeneity. This introduction highlights the challenges and potential of mixed methods, which are gaining momentum owing to calls for methodological pluralism. We also call for a re‐evaluation of quality standards to encourage more innovative and diverse research methodologies.
The Future of Conservatism?
Authors: Gamble Andrew
Published: January 2024

The Case for Conservatism is the first report of the Onward think tank's Commission on The Future of Conservatism. It examines present discontents and offers a set of principles for addressing them. It argues that Conservatives need to shift their ideological position away from the economic liberalism of Margaret Thatcher and the social liberalism of David Cameron and adopt a position which is socially conservative and economically interventionist in order to rebuild a successful electoral coalition and an effective programme for government. They seek to re‐found Conservatism on the pillars of family, community and nation, and the obligations of citizenship rather than the freedom of the individual. They provide a distinctive voice on where Conservatism has gone wrong and how it should change, but they may struggle to become the dominant voice shaping the party's future, because the doctrines of economic liberalism still command strong support.
Cross‐linking duration impacts on Hatay cheeses with microbial transglutaminase enzyme
Authors: Güzeler Nuray , Özbek Çağla , Mert Hüseyin
Published: January 2024

The study aimed to enhance Hatay cheese texture using microbial transglutaminase enzyme (mTG). Cheeses were manufactured using milk treated with mTG for different durations (30, 45 and 60 min) and assessed over 60 days. Longer treatment increased yield (18.79–20.81%) and hardness but reduced springiness. Composition, proteolysis and adhesiveness remained unaffected. Electrophoresis showed β‐casein and αs1‐casein declines during storage, with minor changes in αs1‐casein's breakdown product. Microbial transglutaminase enzyme created a denser protein network, visible in SEM, resulting in a compact structure. Sensory analysis favoured the 60‐min treatment. Overall, mTG improved Hatay cheese quality by modifying texture without major compositional changes.
Nowcasting with Google Trends
Authors: Varian Hal
Published: January 2024

In 2011, I delivered a keynote address titled ‘Predicting the Present with Google Trends’ at the annual meeting of the Australian Conference of Economists. Working with my colleague Hyunyoung Choi, that talk turned into a paper that was subsequently published in the June 2012 proceedings of this journal. The paper received over 3000 citations in Google Scholar. This enthusiastic reception encouraged me to continue work with my colleague Steve Scott to develop new tools and new examples which are described in this paper.
Antioxidant functions of caffeic acid and allylpyrocatechol in supramolecular oxidation of bulk oil: Role of acidic group in the mass transfer network
Authors: Toorani Mohamad Reza
Published: January 2024

Antioxidant activities of caffeic acid (CFA) and allylpyrocatechol (APC) were measured in bulk oil and in emulsion (oil/water) to evaluate the effects of the carboxylic group on the antioxidant function. As an emulsifier, polyglycerol polyricinoleate (PGPR) was added to the bulk oil to assist in promoting the interfacial activity of antioxidants. The antioxidant activity of CFA in the bulk oil was 186.5% higher than that of APC. In the emulsion, however, APC showed 150.3% higher antioxidant activity. PGPR showed a synergistic effect on CFA (>31%) and APC (<18%) which arose from organizing and supporting the formation of oxidation‐microreactors. Water molecules were generated as an oxidation byproduct throughout the oxidation course, and they facilitated the formation of supramolecular structures. Polar imbalance became more prominent in the molecular structure of CFA, due to the presence of the carboxyl group, thereby increasing the effective collisions between the antioxidant molecules and free radicals.
An open‐source general purpose machine learning framework for individual animal re‐identification using few‐shot learning
Authors: Wahltinez Oscar , Wahltinez Sarah J.
Published: January 2024

Animal re‐identification remains a challenging problem due to the cost of tagging systems and the difficulty of permanently attaching a physical marker to some animals, such as sea stars. Due to these challenges, photo identification is a good fit to solve this problem whether evaluated by humans or through machine learning. Accurate machine learning methods are an improvement over manual identification as they are capable of evaluating a large number of images automatically and recent advances have reduced the need for large training datasets.

This study aimed to create an accurate, robust, general purpose machine learning framework for individual animal re‐identification using images both from publicly available data as well as two groups of sea stars of different species under human care. Open‐source code was provided to accelerate work in this space. Images of two species of sea star (Asterias rubens and Anthenea australiae) were taken using a consumer‐grade smartphone camera and used as original datasets to train a machine learning model to re‐identify an individual animal using few examples. The model's performance was evaluated on these original sea star datasets which contained between 39–54 individuals and 983–1204 images, as well as using six publicly available re‐identification datasets for tigers, beef cattle noses, chimpanzee faces, zebras, giraffes and ringed seals ranging between 45–2056 individuals and 829–6770 images.

Using time aware‐splits, which are a data splitting technique ensuring that the model only sees an individual's images from a previous collection event during training to avoid information leaking, the model achieved high (>99%) individual re‐identification mean average precision for the top prediction (mAP@1) for the two species of sea stars. The re‐identification mAP@1 for the mammalian datasets was more variable, ranging from 83% to >99%. However, this model outperformed published state‐of‐the‐art re‐identification results for the publicly available datasets.

The reported approach for animal re‐identification is generalizable, with the same machine learning framework achieving good performance in two distinct species of sea stars with different physical attributes, as well as seven different mammalian species. This demonstrates that this methodology can be applied to nearly any species where individual re‐identification is required. This study presents a precise, practical, non‐invasive approach to animal re‐identification using only basic image collection methods.
Efficacy and safety of alcohol reduction pharmacotherapy according to treatment duration in patients with alcohol dependence or alcohol use disorder: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis
Authors: Kotake Kazumasa , Hosokawa Tomonari , Tanaka Masuo , So Ryuhei , Banno Masahiro , Kataoka Yuki , Shiroshita Akihiro , Hashimoto Yasuhiko
Published: January 2024

Background and Aims

Relapse is common in alcohol dependence (AD) and alcohol use disorder (AUD), so alcohol reduction therapy should be measured over as long a period as possible; however, existing reviews do not consider the duration of treatment and therefore alcohol reduction therapy may not have been appropriately evaluated. This review evaluated the efficacy and safety of alcohol reduction pharmacotherapy in patients with AD or AUD according to the duration of treatment.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that assessed 15 pharmacological agents. MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, the ClinicalTrials.gov and the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform were searched for eligible trials through to May 2021. Outcomes were heavy drinking days (HDD), total alcohol consumption (TAC), any adverse event and days without drinking.

Results

Fifty‐five RCTs (n = 8891) were included. Nalmefene was superior to placebo for reducing HDD (standard mean difference [SMD] −0.28, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.37, −0.18) and TAC (SMD −0.25, 95% CI −0.35, −0.16) in the long‐term, but not in the short‐term. Topiramate was superior to placebo for reducing HDD (SMD −0.35, 95% CI −0.59, −0.12) and days without drinking (SMD 0.46, 95% CI 0.11, 0.82), and baclofen was superior for reducing TAC (SMD −0.70, 95% CI −1.29, −0.11), in the short‐term. The frequency of adverse events was higher with nalmefene and topiramate than with placebo.

Conclusion

Nalmefene, topiramate and baclofen may be effective as alcohol reduction pharmacotherapy; however, only nalmefene has demonstrated long‐term efficacy, and nalmefene and topiramate have a significantly higher frequency of adverse events compared with placebo.
Integrated analysis of differently expressed microRNAs and mRNAs at different postnatal stages reveals intramuscular fat deposition regulation in goats (Capra hircus)
Authors: Zhang Wenyang , Liao Yu , Shao Peng , Yang Yuling , Huang Lian , Du Zhanyu , Zhang Changhui , Wang Yong , Lin Yaqiu , Zhu Jiangjiang
Published: January 2024

Intramuscular fat refers to the adipose tissue distributed in the muscle. It is an important indicator that affects the quality of goat meat, and can directly affect the tenderness and flavor of goat meat. Our previous study revealed the mRNA that may be crucial for intramuscular fat deposition during goat growth; however, how the microRNAs (miRNAs) are involved in the process is largely unclear. In the present study, a total of 401 known miRNAs and 120 goat novel miRNAs, including 110 differentially expressed (DE) miRNAs, were identified among longissimus dorsi from three growth stages (2, 9, and 24 months) by miRNA sequencing. Combining analysis of the DE mRNAs and DE miRNAs was then performed by miRDB and miRwalk, and miR‐145‐5p and FOXO1, miR‐487b‐3p, and PPARG coactivator 1 α (PPARGC1A), miR‐345‐3p, and solute carrier family 2 member 4 (SLC2A4), etc. were shown to closely associate with lipid metabolism, which was then validated by a correlation analysis. The final DE mRNAs were significantly enriched in fatty acid transmembrane transport, fatty acid homeostasis, apelin signaling pathway, glucagon signaling pathway, insulin signaling pathway, and AMPK signaling pathway by gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes analysis. Besides, miR‐145‐5p showed a certain effect on goat intramuscular fat metabolism by acting on the possible target gene Forkhead Box O1 (FOXO1). These data provide some theoretical support for improving the quality of goat meat.
A systematic review and meta‐analysis on nutritional and dietary interventions for the treatment of acute respiratory infection in pediatric patients: An EAACI taskforce
Authors: Milani Gregorio P. , Alberti Ilaria , Abodi Martina , Lakoumentas John , Konstantinou George N. , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Pop Raluca M. , Bocsan Ioana C. , Cassimos Dimitrios , Kull Inger , Bettocchi Silvia , Corsello Antonio , Cugliari Marco , Ciliberti Letizia , Spolidoro Giulia C. I. , Agostoni Carlo , Vlieg Boerstra Berber , Venter Carina , O'Mahony Liam , Vassilopoulou Emilia
Published: January 2024

Acute respiratory infections are a major cause of morbidity and mortality in children worldwide. Dietary and nutritional interventions, including minerals and vitamin supplementation, have been explored as potential treatments for these infections. However, the evidence on their efficacy is limited and inconclusive. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aim to provide a comprehensive summary of the available evidence on the effectiveness of dietary and nutritional interventions for treating acute respiratory tract infections in children. A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA 2020 guidelines in April 2022 and updated in April 2023. Clinical trials focusing on dietary or nutritional interventions, including supplementations, in children with acute respiratory tract infections were included. The selection of interventions and outcomes was based on biological plausibility. Data were extracted using a standardized form, and the risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Meta‐analysis was performed using random‐effect models. A total of 50 studies were included in the review. Four trials were conducted in low, 32 in lower‐middle, 12 in upper‐middle, and only two in high‐income countries. The studies evaluated various dietary interventions, including zinc, vitamin A, vitamin E, vitamin D, and probiotics. The results of individual studies on the efficacy of these interventions were mixed, with some showing positive effects on clinical outcomes such as duration of symptoms, while others showed no significant impact. Meta‐analysis was conducted for zinc supplementation in children with pneumonia, and the pooled results suggested a potential limited benefit in terms of reduced hospital length of stay but not time to recovery. Meta‐analyses on vitamin D did not show any effect in children with pneumonia. This systematic review fills a critical gap in the literature by synthesizing the available evidence on the efficacy and safety of nutritional or dietary interventions for acute respiratory tract infections in children. The findings indicate no dietary or nutritional intervention can currently be recommended for the routine treatment of respiratory tract infections in children based on single supplement studies. The metanalysis suggests that zinc supplementation might have a beneficial effect on length of hospitalization in children with pneumonia. New studies are needed to establish more conclusive evidence for pediatric acute respiratory diseases especially for children living in a context of high‐income countries.
Cardiac arrest in vascular surgical patients receiving anaesthetic care: an analysis from the 7th National Audit Project (NAP7) of the Royal College of Anaesthetists
Authors: Armstrong R. A. , Cook T. M. , Kunst G. , Kane A. D. , Kursumovic E. , Lucas D.N. , Nickols G. , Soar J. , Mouton R.
Published: January 2024

The 7th National Audit Project of the Royal College of Anaesthetists studied peri‐operative cardiac arrest in the UK. We report the results of the vascular surgery cohort from the 12‐month case registry, from 16 June 2021 to 15 June 2022. Anaesthesia for vascular surgery accounted for 2% of UK anaesthetic caseload and included 69 (8%) reported peri‐operative cardiac arrests, giving an estimated incidence of 1 in 670 vascular anaesthetics (95%CI 1 in 520–830). The high‐risk nature of the vascular population is reflected by the proportion of patients who were ASA physical status 4 (30, 43%) or 5 (19, 28%); the age of patients (80% aged > 65 y); and that most cardiac arrests (57, 83%) occurred during non‐elective surgery. The most common vascular surgical procedures among patients who had a cardiac arrest were: aortic surgery (38, 55%); lower‐limb revascularisation (13, 19%); and lower‐limb amputation (8, 12%). Among patients having vascular surgery and who had a cardiac arrest, 28 (41%) presented with a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm. There were 48 (70%) patients who had died at the time of reporting to NAP7 and 11 (16%) were still in hospital, signifying poorer outcomes compared with the non‐vascular surgical cohort. The most common cause of cardiac arrest was major haemorrhage (39, 57%), but multiple other causes reflected the critical illness of the patients and the complexity of surgery. This is the first analysis of the incidence, management and outcomes of peri‐operative cardiac arrest during vascular anaesthesia in the UK.