bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Certification Training and Liver Transplant Experience Improves Liver Procurement Outcomes: The Dutch Approach
Authors: Lam Hwai-Ding , Ploeg Rutger , Nijboer Willemijn N. , Alwayn Ian P.J. , Coenraad Minneke , Hemke Aline C. , Bastiaannet Esther , Putter Hein , Baranski Andrzej
Published: April 2024

Background.

This study investigates the impact of certification training and liver transplant experience on procurement outcomes of deceased donor liver procurement in the Netherlands.

Methods.

Three groups (trainee, certified, and master) were formed, with further subdivision based on liver transplant experience. Three key outcomes—surgical injury, graft discard after injury, and donor hepatectomy duration—were analyzed.

Results.

There were no significant differences in surgical graft injury in the three groups (trainee, 16.9%; certified, 14.8%; master, 18.2%; P = 0.357; 2011 to 2018). The only predictor for surgical graft injury was donation after circulatory death (odds ratio [OR], 1.49; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10-2.02). Of the three groups, the master group had the highest discard rate after surgical injury (trainee, 0%; certified, 1.3%; master, 2.8%; P = 0.013). Master group without liver transplant experience (OR, 3.16; 95% CI, 1.21-8.27) and male donor sex (OR, 3.58; 95% CI, 1.32-9.73) were independent risk factors for discarding livers after surgical injury. Independent predictors for shorter hepatectomy durations included donors older than 50 years (coefficient [Coeff], −7.04; 95% CI, −8.03 to −3.29; P < 0.001), and master group (Coeff, −9.84; 95% CI, −14.37 to −5.31; P < 0.001) and certified group with liver transplant experience (Coeff, −6.54; 95% CI, −10.83 to −2.26; P = 0.003). On the other hand, master group without liver transplant experience (Coeff, 5.00; 95% CI, 1.03-8.96; P = 0.014) and donation after circulatory death (Coeff, 10.81; 95% CI, 8.32-13.3; P < 0.001) were associated with longer hepatectomy durations.

Conclusions.

Training and certification in abdominal organ procurement surgery were associated with a reduced discard rate for surgical injured livers and shorter hepatectomy times. The contrast between master group with and without liver transplant experience underscores the need for specialized training in this field.
Bangladesh should engage the private sector for malaria elimination by 2030
Authors: McArdle Ryan Patrick , Phru Ching Swe , Hossain Mohammad Sharif , Alam Mohammad Shafiul , Haldar Kasturi
Published: April 2024

Bangladesh reduced malaria by 93% from 2008-2020 through the action of governmental and non-governmental organizations, yet ∼18 million people continue to live at risk of infection. For-profit private healthcare providers, catalytic for malaria elimination in many countries, have not yet been integrated into the national program. By imposing strict definitions on a large and complex literature surrounding private healthcare sector engagement, we distilled eight distinct strategies important in other developing settings: contracting, financing, subsidization, regulation, social franchising, demand-side interventions, infrastructure-building and training. We weighed these in the context of Bangladesh’s flourishing private health care sector—driven by patient demand, self-interest, and aspirations for public good—as well as the heterogeneity in provider capacity and malaria prevalence across districts. We developed a new model dependent on five strategies of subsidization, training, infrastructure building, demand-side intervention, and referral financing, to empower Bangladesh’s phased agenda of eliminating indigenous malaria transmission by 2030.
The application of deep learning in lung cancerous lesion detection
Authors: Chu Phuong Thi Minh , Ha Tram Pham Bich , Vu Ngoc Minh , Ha Hoang , Doan Thu Minh
Published: April 2024

Background

Characterized by rapid metastasis and a significant death rate, lung cancer presents a formidable challenge, which underscores the critical role of early detection in combating the disease. This study addresses the urgent need for early lung cancer detection using deep learning models applied to computed tomography (CT) images.

Methods

Our study introduced a unique non-cancer pneumonia dataset, a publicly available large-scale collection of high-quality pneumonia CT scans with detailed descriptions. We utilized this dataset to fine-tune nine pretrained models, including DenseNet121, MobileNetV2, InceptionV3, InceptionResNetV2, ResNet50, ResNet101, VGG16, VGG19, and Xception for the classification of lung cancer and pneumonia.

Results

ResNet50 demonstrated the highest accuracy and sensitivity (97.7% and 100%, respectively), while InceptionV3 excelled in precision (97.9%) and specificity (98.0%). The study also highlighted the contribution of the gradient-weighted class activation mapping (Grad-CAM) technique in examining the effectiveness of the model-training process via the visualization of features learned across different layers. Grad-CAM revealed that among the best-performed models, InceptionV3 successfully identified cancerous lesions in CT scans. Our findings demonstrated the potential of deep learning models in early lung cancer screening and improving the accuracy of the diagnosis procedure.

Data availability

The pneumonia CT scan dataset used in this study is extracted from peer-reviewed publications and can be accessed athttps://github.com/ReiCHU31/CT-pneumonia-dataset
WHIRLY1 regulates aliphatic glucosinolate biosynthesis in early seedling development of Arabidopsis
Authors: Nguyen Linh Thuy , Moutesidi Pinelopi , Ziegler Jörg , Glasneck Anike , Khosravi Solmaz , Abel Steffen , Hensel Götz , Krupinska Karin , Humbeck Klaus
Published: April 2024

WHIRLY1 belongs to a family of plant-specific transcription factors capable of binding DNA or RNA in all three plant cell compartments that contain genetic materials. InArabidopsis thaliana, WHIRLY1 has been studied at the later stages of plant development, including flowering and leaf senescence, as well as in biotic and abiotic stress responses. In this study,WHIRLY1knock-out mutants ofA. thalianawere prepared by CRISPR/Cas9 to investigate the role of AtWHIRLY1 during early seedling development. The loss-of-function ofWHIRLY1in 5-day-old seedlings did not cause differences in the phenotype and the photosynthetic performance of the emerging cotyledons compared to the wild type. Nevertheless, comparative RNA sequencing analysis revealed that the knock-out ofWHIRLY1affected the expression of a small but specific set of genes during this critical phase of development. About 110 genes were found to be significantly deregulated in the knockout mutant, wherein several genes involved in the early steps of aliphatic glucosinolate (aGSL) biosynthesis were suppressed compared to wild type plants. The downregulation of these genes inWHIRLY1knock-out line led to a decreased GSL contents in seedlings and in seeds. We also examined myrosinase activity during seed-seedling transition and showed that the reduction in aGSL biosynthesis is the main reason for lowering aGSL content in young seedlings. The results suggest that AtWHIRLY1 plays a role in regulating aliphatic glucosinolate biosynthesis during early seedling development.

Significance statement

WHIRLY1 functions in several aspects of plant development and stress responses, however little is known about its involvement in young seedling development. Here we show that in this stage, WHIRLY1 specifically regulates expression of genes encoding enzymes in the early steps of aliphatic glucosinolate biosynthesis pathway, leading to a reduction in glucosinolate content in theWHIRLY1knock-out seedlings.
The development of the gynecologic oncology pathway “VivaPathway GT“ – a qualitative study about the transformation from an implicit to an explicit, evidence-based clinical pathway in a Berlin-based tertiary care hospital
Authors: Büscher Anne , Reinhold Nicolle , Kugler Joachim
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Standardization in healthcare is crucial for comprehensive patient care, as emphasized by the WHO and quality management principles. Clinical pathways offer a structured approach to describing essential processes, particularly relevant in gynecologic oncology care. Despite their proven benefits, pathways remain underutilized, highlighting the need for explicit translation of implicit pathways.

Materials and Methods

This study employed semi-structured interviews with healthcare professionals to capture implicit gynecologic oncology pathway. Interviews were examined using qualitative content analysis. External requirements, legal mandates, and certification criteria were integrated into pathway development. A participatory approach involving interprofessional collaboration guided pathway refinement.

Results

The study applied the Pathway Association’s 7-phase method, illustrating the development of VivaPathway GT. The explicit pathway, enriched with external requirements, comprised 26 steps, enhancing comprehensiveness and interprofessional involvement. Notable additions included pre-therapeutic tumor boards and detailed post-operative consultations.

Discussion

Transitioning from implicit to explicit pathways is a is a demanding and challenging process emphasizing stakeholder engagement and IT support. Financial constraints pose challenges, but initiatives like quality contracts offer opportunities for resource allocation. The study validates hypotheses, confirming the efficacy of collaboration of involved professionals and integration of external requirements in pathway development.

Conclusions

This study underscores the importance of explicit clinical pathways. It provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals facing similar challenges, emphasizing the need for ongoing evaluation and adaptation. Despite resource challenges, stakeholder collaboration and IT support are crucial for pathway effectiveness and relevance in evolving healthcare landscapes.
Upper respiratory microbial communities of healthy populations are shaped by niche and age
Authors: Zelasko Susan , Swaney Mary Hannah , Sandstrom Shelby , Davenport Timothy C. , Seroogy Christine M. , Gern James E. , Kalan Lindsay R. , Currie Cameron R.
Published: April 2024

Background

Alterations in upper respiratory microbiomes have been implicated in shaping host health trajectories, including by limiting mucosal pathogen colonization. However, limited comparative studies of respiratory microbiome development and functioning across age groups have been performed. Herein, we perform shotgun metagenomic sequencing paired with pathogen inhibition assays to elucidate differences in nasal and oral microbiome composition and functioning across healthy 24-month-old infant (n=229) and adult (n=100) populations.

Results

We find that beta diversity of nasal and oral microbiomes varies with age, with nasal microbiomes showing greater population-level variation compared to oral microbiomes. Infant microbiome alpha diversity was significantly lower across nasal samples and higher in oral samples, relative to adults. Accordingly, we demonstrate significant differences in genus- and species-level composition of microbiomes between sites and age groups. Antimicrobial resistome patterns likewise varied across body sites, with oral microbiomes showing higher resistance gene abundance compared to nasal microbiomes. Biosynthetic gene clusters encoding specialized metabolite production were found in higher abundance across infant oral microbiomes, relative to adults. Investigation of pathogen inhibition revealed greater inhibition of gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria by oral commensals, while nasal isolates had higher antifungal activity.

Conclusions

In summary, we identify significant differences in the microbial communities inhabiting nasal and oral cavities of healthy infants relative to adults. These findings inform our understanding of the interactions impacting respiratory microbiome composition and functioning, with important implications for host health across the lifespan.
Wearables and smartphones for modifiable risk factors in metabolic health: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Brügger Victoria , Kowatsch Tobias , Jovanova Mia
Published: April 2024

Background

Metabolic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases and diabetes, contribute significantly to global mortality and disability. Wearable devices and smartphones increasingly track physiological and lifestyle risk factors and can improve the management of metabolic diseases. However, the absence of clear guidelines for deriving meaningful signals from these devices often hampers cross-study comparisons.

Objective

Thus, this scoping review protocol aims to systematically overview the current empirical literature on how wearables and smartphones are used to measure modifiable risk factors associated with metabolic diseases.

Methods

We will conduct a scoping review to overview how wearables and smartphones measure modifiable risk factors related to metabolic diseases. We will search six databases (Scopus, Web of Science, ScienceDirect, PubMed, ACM Digital Library, and IEEE Xplore) from 2019 to 2024, with search terms related to wearables, smartphones, and modifiable risk factors associated with metabolic diseases. We will apply the PRISMA-ScR (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews) and Arksey and O’Malley’s scoping review methodology. Eligible studies will use smartphones and/or wearables (worn on the wrist, finger, arm, hip, and chest) to track physiological and/or lifestyle factors related to metabolic diseases. Two reviewers will independently screen articles for inclusion. Data will be extracted using a standardized form, and the findings will be synthesized and reported qualitatively and quantitatively.

Results

The study is expected to identify potential gaps in measuring modifiable risk factors in current digital metabolic health research. Results are expected to inform more standardized guidelines on wearable and smartphone-based measurements to aid cross-study comparison. The final report is planned for submission to an indexed journal.

Conclusions

This review is among the first to systematically overview the current landscape on how wearables and smartphones are used to measure modifiable risk factors associated with metabolic diseases.
Relaxation time for the alignment between quark spin and angular velocity in a rotating QCD medium
Authors: Ayala Alejandro , Bernal-Langarica Santiago , Jiménez Isabel Domínguez , Maldonado Ivonne , Medina-Serna José Jorge , Rendón Javier , Tejeda-Yeomans María Elena
Published: April 2024

We compute the relaxation times for massive quarks and antiquarks to align their spins with the angular velocity in a rigidly rotating medium at finite temperature and baryon density. The rotation effects are implemented using a fermion propagator immersed in a cylindrical rotating environment. The relaxation time is computed as the inverse of the interaction rate to produce an asymmetry between the quark (antiquark) spin components along and opposite to the angular velocity. For conditions resembling heavy-ion collisions, the relaxation times for quarks are smaller than for antiquarks. For semicentral collisions, the relaxation time for quarks is within the possible lifetime of the QGP for all collision energies. However, for antiquarks, this happens only for collision energies sNN≳50  GeV. The results are quantified in terms of the intrinsic quark and antiquark polarizations, namely, the probability to build the spin asymmetry as a function of time. Our results show that these intrinsic polarizations tend to 1 with time at different rates given by the relaxation times with quarks reaching a sizable asymmetry at a faster pace. These are key results to further elucidate the mechanisms of hyperon polarization in relativistic heavy-ion collisions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Anomalies in string-inspired nonlocal extensions of QED
Authors: Abu-Ajamieh Fayez , Chattopadhyay Pratik , Ghoshal Anish , Okada Nobuchika
Published: April 2024

We investigate anomalies in the class of nonlocal field theories that have been proposed as an ultraviolet completion of four-dimensional quantum field theory with generalizing the kinetic energy operators to an infinite series of higher derivatives inspired by the string field theory and ghost-free nonlocal approaches to quantum gravity. We explicitly calculate the vector and chiral anomalies in a string-inspired nonlocal extension of QED. We show that the vector anomaly vanishes as required by gauge invariance and the Ward identity. On the other hand, although the chiral anomaly vanishes to the leading order with massless fermions, it nonetheless does not vanish with the massive fermions and we calculate it to the leading order in the scale of nonlocality. We also calculate the nonlocal vector and axial currents explicitly and present an illustrative example by applying our results to the decay of π0→γγ.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Phase structure and critical phenomena in two-flavor QCD by holography
Authors: Zhao Yan-Qing , He Song , Hou Defu , Li Li , Li Zhibin
Published: April 2024

We explore the phase structure of quantum chromodynamics (QCD) with two dynamical quark flavors at finite temperature and baryon chemical potential, employing the nonperturbative gauge/gravity duality approach. Our gravitational model is tailored to align with state-of-the-art lattice data regarding the thermal properties of multiflavor QCD. Following a rigorous parameter calibration to match equations of state and the QCD trace anomaly at zero chemical potential derived from cutting-edge lattice QCD simulations, we investigate thermodynamic quantities and order parameters. We predict the location of the critical endpoint (CEP) at (μCEP,TCEP)=(219,182)  MeV at which a line of first-order phase transitions terminate. We compute critical exponents associated with the CEP and find that they almost coincide with the critical exponents of the quantum 3D Ising model.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Bloch-Landau-Zener oscillations in a quasi-periodic potential
Authors: Prates Henrique C. , Konotop Vladimir V.
Published: April 2024

Bloch oscillations and Landau-Zener tunneling are ubiquitous phenomena which are sustained by a band-gap spectrum of a periodic Hamiltonian and can be observed in dynamics of a quantum particle or a wavepacket in a periodic potential under action of a linear force. Such physical setting remains meaningful for aperiodic potentials too, although band-gap structure does not exist anymore. Here we consider the dynamics of noninteracting atoms and Bose-Einstein condensates in a quasiperiodic one-dimensional optical lattice subjected to a weak linear force. Excited states with energies below the mobility edge, and thus localized in space, are considered. We show that the observed oscillatory behavior is enabled by tunneling between the initial state and a state (or several states) located nearby in the coordinate-energy space. The states involved in such Bloch-Landau-Zener oscillations are determined by the selection rule consisting of the condition of their spatial proximity and condition of quasiresonances occurring at avoided crossings of the energy levels. The latter condition is formulated mathematically using the Gershgorin circle theorem. The effect of the inter-atomic interactions on the dynamics can also be predicted on the bases of the developed theory. The reported results can be observed in any physical system allowing for observation of the Bloch oscillations, upon introducing incommensurablity in the governing Hamiltonian.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Quantum Electrodynamics in
2+1
Dimensions as the Organizing Principle of a Triangular Lattice Antiferromagnet
Authors: Wietek Alexander , Capponi Sylvain , Läuchli Andreas M.
Published: April 2024

Quantum electrodynamics in 2+1 dimensions (QED3) has been proposed as a critical field theory describing the low-energy effective theory of a putative algebraic Dirac spin liquid or of quantum phase transitions in two-dimensional frustrated magnets. We provide compelling evidence that the intricate spectrum of excitations of the elementary but strongly frustrated J1−J2 Heisenberg model on the triangular lattice is in one-to-one correspondence to a zoo of excitations from QED3, in the quantum spin liquid regime. This evidence includes a large manifold of explicitly constructed monopole and bilinear excitations of QED3, which is thus shown to serve as an organizing principle of phases of matter in triangular lattice antiferromagnets and their low-lying excitations. Moreover, we observe signatures of emergent valence-bond solid (VBS) correlations, which can be interpreted either as evidence of critical VBS fluctuations of an emergent Dirac spin liquid or as a transition from the 120° Néel order to a VBS whose quantum critical point is described by QED3. Our results are obtained by comparing ansatz wave functions from a parton construction to exact eigenstates obtained using large-scale exact diagonalization up to N=48 sites.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Upgrade of crystallography beamline BL19U1 at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility
Authors: Xiao Qingjie , Wu Tingting , Bao Kangwen , Tang Jianchao , Zhang Yupu , Zhang Weizhe , Zhu Zhongjie , Gu Yijun , Zhou Shuyu , Li Chunyu , Lu Lanlu , Jiang Luozhen , Liu Yang , Qin Wenming
Published: April 2024

BL19U1, an energy-tunable protein complex crystallography beamline at the Shanghai Synchrotron Radiation Facility, has emerged as one of the most productive MX beamlines since opening to the public in July 2015. As of October 2023, it has contributed to over 2000 protein structures deposited in the Protein Data Bank (PDB), resulting in the publication of more than 1000 scientific papers. In response to increasing interest in structure-based drug design utilizing X-ray crystallography for fragment library screening, enhancements have been implemented in both hardware and data collection systems on the beamline to optimize efficiency. Hardware upgrades include the transition from MD2 to MD2S for the diffractometer, alongside the installation of a humidity controller featuring a rapid nozzle exchanger. This allows users to opt for either low-temperature or room-temperature data collection modes. The control system has been upgraded from Blu-Ice to MXCuBE3, which supports website-mode data collection, providing enhanced compatibility and easy expansion with new features. An automated data processing pipeline has also been developed to offer users real-time feedback on data quality.
When do customers become your trusted allies: Unveiling pathways for enhanced citizenship in family-owned hotels
Authors: Habib Syed Muhammad Ali Shahbaz , Sindhu Mahwish , Saleem Irfan
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Drawing upon social exchange theory, this research investigates the interplay of corporate philanthropy, environmental marketing strategy, relationship quality, greenwashing, and customer citizenship behavior in the family-owned hotels of an emerging market.

Design/methodology/approach

A field survey questionnaire was used to gather the data from 394 hotel customers by randomly selecting three premium family-owned hotels in Lahore: Faletti’s, Avari, and Holiday Inn. The data was analyzed using the structural regression modeling (SRM) technique with the assistance of AMOS version 24.

Findings

The results show that corporate philanthropy and environmental marketing strategy positively influence relationship quality, and relationship quality positively influences customer citizenship behavior. Relationship quality partially mediates the association between corporate philanthropy and customer citizenship behavior, but we found that greenwashing does not have a moderating role.

Research limitations/implications

This research has theoretical implications for marketing scholars and practical implications of family-owned hotels in emerging markets.

Originality/value

The study has contributed contextually by collecting a unique dataset from family-owned hotels in an emerging market. Theoretically, we have conceptualized a model through the Social Exchange Theory by recommending relationship quality as a mediator and greenwashing as a moderator.
Give me a human! How anthropomorphism and robot gender affect trust in financial robo-advisory services
Authors: Plotkina Daria , Orkut Hava , Karageyim Meral Ahu
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Financial services industry is increasingly showing interest in automated financial advisors, or robo-advisors, with the aim of democratizing access to financial advice and stimulating investment behavior among populations that were previously less active and less served. However, the extent to which consumers trust this technology influences the adoption of rob-advisors. The resemblance to a human, or anthropomorphism, can provide a sense of social presence and increase trust.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, we conduct an experiment (N = 223) to test the effect of anthropomorphism (low vs medium vs high) and gender (male vs female) of the robo-advisor on social presence. This perception, in turn, enables consumers to evaluate personality characteristics of the robo-advisor, such as competence, warmth, and persuasiveness, all of which are related to trust in the robo-advisor. We separately conduct an experimental study (N = 206) testing the effect of gender neutrality on consumer responses to robo-advisory anthropomorphism.

Findings

Our results show that consumers prefer human-alike robo-advisors over machinelike or humanoid robo-advisors. This preference is only observed for male robo-advisors and is explained by perceived competence and perceived persuasiveness. Furthermore, highlighting gender neutrality undermines the positive effect of robo-advisor anthropomorphism on trust.

Originality/value

We contribute to the body of knowledge on robo-advisor design by showing the effect of robot’s anthropomorphism and gender on consumer perceptions and trust. Consequently, we offer insightful recommendations to promote the adoption of robo-advisory services in the financial sector.
Do total quality management and external factors matter? The effect of innovation behaviour on innovation performance in banks
Authors: Koomson Samuel
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Although total quality management (TQM) is an innovative management philosophy, how it connects innovative behaviour (INB) to innovation performance (INP) has gone unnoticed. Also, the external factors (technological turbulence [TUR], competitive intensity [CMP], market dynamism [MKD] and government regulation [GOV]) under which the INB–TQM connection may grow are yet to be understood. In spite of the various evolutions that have occurred in the banking industry, there remains a necessity to enhance the quality of service offered to clients. This paper aims to address these issues in the total quality management literature.

Design/methodology/approach

This study constructs and analyses a research framework by analysing the replies of 260 executives in senior and intermediate positions across 21 quality-certified universal banks in Ghana, using the Smart PLS methodology.

Findings

TQM played a partial mediating role between INB and INP (variance accounted for = 46.85%, p = 0.000). TUR (β = 0.023, p = 0.000), CMP (β = 0.043, p = 0.000), MKD (β = 0.056, p = 0.000) and GOV (β = 0.068, p = 0.000) positively and significantly moderated the INB–TQM connection.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may examine the proposed framework in various environments and sectors.

Practical implications

Practical insights for industry players in the sector are discussed.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to show how innovation serves both as an antecedent and consequence of TQM. It is also the first to explicate the boundary conditions under which the INB–TQM relationship may flourish.
Anticipated chilly climate for women: the development and validation of a measure
Authors: Puncheva-Michelotti Petya , Hudson Sarah , Hennekam Sophie
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study develops a measure of anticipated chilly climate for women and provides initial evidence of its validity.

Design/methodology/approach

We draw on three studies. Study 1 consisted of three focus groups to gain deeper insights into the meaning of the concept for prospective female jobseekers and generate scale items. In Study 2, we pre-tested job post vignettes (N = 203), refined the scale items and explored the factor structure (N = 136). Study 3 aimed to determine the convergent and discriminant validity of the new scale (N = 224) by testing its relationships with organisational attractiveness, person-organisation fit perceptions and gendered language.

Findings

The results show that the anticipated chilly climate is an important concept with implications for applicants’ career decision-making and career growth in the technology industry, where women tend to be underrepresented. Perceptions of anticipated chilly climate comprise expectations of devaluation, marginalisation and exclusion from the prospective employment. The masculine stereotypes embedded in the language of the job posts signalled a chilly climate for both genders, negatively affecting perceptions of fit and organisational attractiveness.

Originality/value

Most previous studies have focussed on the actual experiences of chilly climates in organisations. We extend this body of literature to anticipatory climates and draw on social identity threat theory and signalling theory to highlight that job applicants make inferences about the climate they expect to find based on job ads. Specifically, they may anticipate a chilly climate based on cues from job ads signalling masculine stereotypes. Whilst the literature has emphasised women’s perceptions of chilly climates within organisations, our results show that both genders anticipate chilly climates with detrimental consequences for both organisations and prospective job applications.
Human-centric cyber security: Applying protection motivation theory to analyse micro business owners’ security behaviours
Authors: Jamil Hassan , Zia Tanveer , Nayeem Tahmid , Whitty Monica T. , D'Alessandro Steven
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The current advancements in technologies and the internet industry provide users with many innovative digital devices for entertainment, communication and trade. However, simultaneous development and the rising sophistication of cybercrimes bring new challenges. Micro businesses use technology like how people use it at home, but face higher cyber risks during riskier transactions, with human error playing a significant role. Moreover, information security researchers have often studied individuals’ adherence to compliance behaviour in response to cyber threats. The study aims to examine the protection motivation theory (PMT)-based model to understand individuals’ tendency to adopt secure behaviours.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focuses on Australian micro businesses since they are more susceptible to cyberattacks due to the least security measures in place. Out of 877 questionnaires distributed online to Australian micro business owners through survey panel provider “Dynata,” 502 (N = 502) complete responses were included. Structural equational modelling was used to analyse the relationships among the variables.

Findings

The results indicate that all constructs of the protection motivation, except threat susceptibility, successfully predict the user protective behaviours. Also, increased cybersecurity costs negatively impact users’ safe cyber practices.

Originality/value

The study has critical implications for understanding micro business owners’ cyber security behaviours. The study contributes to the current knowledge of cyber security in micro businesses through the lens of PMT.
Efficiency of BRICS countries in sustainable development: a comparative data envelopment analysis
Authors: Gebert Isabella Melissa , de Mello-Sampayo Felipa
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study aims to assess the efficiency of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa (BRICS) countries in achieving sustainable development by analyzing their ability to convert resources and technological innovations into sustainable outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data envelopment analysis (DEA), the study evaluates the economic, environmental and social efficiency of BRICS countries over the period 2010–2018. It ranks these countries based on their sustainable development performance and compares them to the period 2000–2007.

Findings

The study reveals varied efficiency levels among BRICS countries. Russia and South Africa lead in certain sustainable development aspects. South Africa excels in environmental sustainability, whereas Brazil is efficient in resource utilization for sustainable growth. China and India, despite economic growth, face challenges such as pollution and lower quality of life.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s findings are constrained by the DEA methodology and the selection of variables. It highlights the need for more nuanced research incorporating recent global events such as the COVID-19 pandemic and geopolitical shifts.

Practical implications

Insights from this study can inform targeted and effective sustainability strategies in BRICS nations, focusing on areas such as industrial quality improvement, employment conditions and environmental policies.

Social implications

The study underscores the importance of balancing economic growth with social and environmental considerations, highlighting the need for policies addressing inequality, poverty and environmental degradation.

Originality/value

This research provides a unique comparative analysis of BRICS countries’ sustainable development efficiency, challenging conventional perceptions and offering a new perspective on their progress.
Influencing beginner teachers' autonomy: the impact of mentorship in fostering self-directed learning
Authors: Mokoena Thabang Donald , van Tonder Gideon Petrus
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the impact of mentorship on the development of self-directedness among beginner teachers in their initial years of teaching.

Design/methodology/approach

The researcher adopted a positivist paradigm to explore the situation of concern. Quantitative research was conducted, involving the collection and analysis of numerical data. Two closed-ended structured questionnaires were utilised, derived from the 40-item self-directed learning readiness scale (SDLRS) developed by Fisher and King, and a pre-determined questionnaire by Glazerman focused on the first-year teaching experience, induction and mentoring of beginner teachers.

Findings

Beginner teachers merely relying on the knowledge obtained from their studies is insufficient to achieve a satisfactory level of self-directedness when starting a teaching career. Most beginner teachers faced significant challenges in their early years of teaching due to the absence of mentoring support. In addition, most indicated that they resume their teaching duties and rely on their district for general support, guidance and orientation. Finally, the results have shown that mentoring positively impacts beginner teachers’ self-directedness.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation was that this study was narrowed to one South Africa University part-time B.Ed honours students working as beginner teachers in different provinces at primary and secondary schools. As a result, the findings of this research might be interpreted by some critics as one-sided and not representative of the views of most beginner teachers in South Africa who are working. The second limitation of this study is the sample size. In this study, 222 responses were received. As a result, the findings of this research might be considered not representative of the target sample size.

Practical implications

The presence and effective implementation of mentoring programmes in schools can positively impact beginner teachers' professional development and retention during their first years of teaching.

Social implications

We contend that our research holds significance for international readership as it aims to garner attention towards potential research endeavours in diverse settings concerning mentorship programs for beginner teachers, specifically promoting self-directed learning. Our research offers opportunities to compare our findings with studies conducted in more comprehensive, comparative contexts and foster research possibilities in broader, contrasting contexts.

Originality/value

Based on the findings of this research, the availability and effective use of mentoring programmes would significantly affect beginner teachers' self-directedness, improve their retention rate and alleviate their teaching challenges. This study was the first research on the perceptions of the influence of mentoring on the self-directedness of beginner teachers.
Paradoxical tensions during industry 4.0 integration within health care: managing tensions for quality improvement
Authors: Kabel Daan , Martin Jason , Elg Mattias
Published: April 2024

Purpose

The integration of industry 4.0 has become a priority for many organizations. However, not all organizations are suitable and capable of implementing industry 4.0 because it requires a dynamic and flexible implementation strategy. The implementation of industry 4.0 often involves overcoming several tensions between internal and external stakeholders. This paper aims to explore the paradoxical tensions that arise for health-care organizations when integrating industry 4.0. Moreover, it discusses how a paradox lens can support the conceptualization and proposes techniques for handling tensions during the integration of industry 4.0.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative and in-depth study draws upon 32 semi-structured interviews. The empirical case concerns how two health-care organizations handle paradoxical tensions during the integration of industry 4.0.

Findings

The exploration resulted in six recurring technology tensions: technology invention (modularized design vs. flexible design), technology collaboration (automation vs. human augmentation), technology-driven patient experience (control vs. autonomy), technology uncertainty (short-term experimentation vs. long-term planning), technology invention and diffusion through collaborative efforts among stakeholders (selective vs. intensive collaboration) and technological innovation (market maintenance vs. disruption).

Originality/value

A paradox theory-informed conceptual model is proposed for how to handle tensions during the integration of industry 4.0. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper to introduce paradox theory for quality management, including lean and Six Sigma.
Implementing organizational performance measurement systems: measures and success strategies
Authors: Keathley-Herring Heather , Van Aken Eileen , Letens Geert
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This study assesses performance measurement (PM) system implementation efforts across various organizational contexts and investigates which factors are critical to achieving implementation success (IS).

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical field study was conducted to refine a framework of PM system IS that consists of 5 dimensions of success and 29 factors. A survey questionnaire was used to investigate actual organizational practice and exploratory factor analysis was conducted to refine constructs corresponding to potential factors and dimensions of IS. The resulting variables were then investigated using multiple regression analysis to identify critical success factors for implementing PM systems.

Findings

The survey was completed by representatives from 124 organizations and the exploratory factor analysis results indicated that there are three underlying dimensions of IS (i.e. Use of the System, PM System Performance, and Improved Results and Processes) and 12 factors. Of the factors, nine can be considered critical success factors having a significant relationship with at least one dimension of IS: Leader Support, Design and Implementation Approach, Reward System Alignment, Organizational Acceptance, Organizational Culture and Climate, Easy to Define Environment, IT Infrastructure Capabilities, PM System Design Quality, and PM Participation and Training.

Originality/value

The results show that there are distinct dimensions of IS and, although some factors are associated with all dimensions, most are more closely related to only one dimension. This suggests that different strategies should be utilized based on the types of challenges experienced during implementation.
The mediating effect of data literacy competence in the relationship between data governance and data-driven culture
Authors: Fattah Ikhsan A.
Published: April 2024

Purpose

This research investigates the critical role of data governance (DG) in shaping a data-driven culture (DDC) within organizations, recognizing the transformative potential of data utilization for efficiency, opportunities, and productivity. The study delves into the influence of DG on DDC, emphasizing the mediating effect of data literacy (DL).

Design/methodology/approach

The study empirically assesses 125 experienced managers in Indonesian public service sector organizations using a quantitative approach. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) analysis was chosen to examine the impact of DG on DDC and the mediating effects of DL on this relationship.

Findings

The findings highlight that both DG and DL serve as antecedents to DDC, with DL identified as a crucial mediator, explaining a significant portion of the effects between DG and DDC.

Research limitations/implications

Beyond unveiling these relationships, the study discusses practical implications for organizational leaders and managers, emphasizing the need for effective policies and strategies in data-driven decision-making.

Originality/value

This research fills an important research gap by introducing an original model and providing empirical evidence on the dynamic interplay between DG, DL, and DDC, contributing to the evolving landscape of data-driven organizational cultures.
Educational quality and inclusion through collaborative hybridized cybergogy: transformative learning horizons in Pakistani universities
Authors: Asad Muhammad Mujtaba , Malik Aisha
Published: April 2024

Purpose

In today’s world, empowering individuals, promoting social cohesion and advancing economic development all hinge on access to high-quality education, prioritizing diversity, inclusion and equality. Rethinking current educational strategies using cyber-physical learning assets is necessary to accommodate the learning inclusivity and equity and escalating demands of a globalized world. There is a pressing demand for evidence to support the efficacy of collaborative learning in transforming curriculum and fostering learner inclusion. However, it is recognized as a pedagogical technique within the quality education domain. This study aims to address this knowledge gap by investigating how hybridized cybergogy paradigms facilitate collaborative learning, focusing on diversity, equity and inclusion, to improve educational quality in higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative approach with an exploratory design guided by an interpretive philosophical perspective. The data was gathered from 60 prospective teachers from the public sector university of Sindh, Pakistan. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants. They were then analyzed using theme analysis to understand their views on the potential of hybridized cybergogy paradigms for collaborative learning to improve the quality of education provided at institutions.

Findings

The study results confirm that learners benefit from increased access to learning resources, improved critical thinking and problem-solving skills and a more diverse and inclusive classroom working together in a collaborative hybridized cybergogy setting. By fostering SDG 4 (Quality Education) and the 21st-century skills necessary for global marketplace engagement and competing in progressive environments, this creative method equips learners with the capabilities to face modern global challenges.

Practical implications

The study offers valuable practical suggestions to stakeholders in higher education, including faculty, policymakers and teacher education programs, for integrating hybridized cybergogy and collaborative learning to align curricula with sustainable development goals. Additionally, it bridges a significant gap in the existing literature, which will aid future researchers interested in exploring this area.

Originality/value

This study stands out as it explores an underexamined area while providing novel educational insights.
Streamlining the self-correction process: a review of the use of replication research by organizational scholars
Authors: Hensel Przemysław G. , Kacprzak Agnieszka
Published: April 2024

Purpose

Replication is a primary self-correction device in science. In this paper, we have two aims: to examine how and when the results of replications are used in management and organization research and to use the results of this examination to offer guidelines for improving the self-correction process.

Design/methodology/approach

Study 1 analyzes co-citation patterns for 135 original-replication pairs to assess the direct impact of replications, specifically examining how often and when a replication study is co-cited with its original. In Study 2, a similar design is employed to measure the indirect impact of replications by assessing how often and when a meta-analysis that includes a replication of the original study is co-cited with the original study.

Findings

Study 1 reveals, among other things, that a huge majority (92%) of sources that cite the original study fail to co-cite a replication study, thus calling into question the impact of replications in our field. Study 2 shows that the indirect impact of replications through meta-analyses is likewise minimal. However, our analyses also show that replications published in the same journal that carried the original study and authored by teams including the authors of the original study are more likely to be co-cited, and that articles in higher-ranking journals are more likely to co-cite replications.

Originality/value

We use our results to formulate recommendations that would streamline the self-correction process in management research at the author-, reviewer- and journal-level. Our recommendations would create incentives to make replication attempts more common, while also increasing the likelihood that these attempts are targeted at the most relevant original studies.