bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interspecies interaction reshapes the fitness landscape of evolved genotypes
Authors: Sun Xinli , Xu Zhihui , Hu Guohai , Xie Jiyu , Li Yun , Tao Lili , Zhang Nan , Xun Weibing , Miao Youzhi , Zhang Ruifu , Shen Qirong , Kovács Ákos T.
Published: July 2024

Microbial interaction and their evolution is vital for shaping the structure and function of microbial communities. However, the mechanisms governing the directionality and stability of the evolution of interactions within microbial communities remain poorly understood. Here, we used a syntrophic two-species biofilm consortium composed ofBacillus velezensisSQR9 andPseudomonas stutzeriXL272 that promotes plant growth through their metabolic interactions and investigated how the interactions within the consortium change over evolutionary timescale to characterize the phenotypic and genetic diversification. The focal speciesB. velezensisSQR9 rapidly diversified into diverse colony morphotypes, both in the presence and absence of its interactor,P. stutzeriXL272, with variable frequencies. These morphotypes displayed phenotypic differentiation among biofilm formation, planktonic growth, and spore formation. The evolvedP. stutzerialtered the fitness landscape ofB. velezensismorphotypes, allowing the weaker rough morphotype to outcompete the biofilm-enhanced slimy morphotype. Whole genome re-sequencing correlated these phenotypic changes with mutations in specific genes encoding regulators ofB. velezensis, includingywcC,comA,comP,degS,degQandspo0F. The coevolutionary partner,P. stutzeriincreased its exopolysaccharide production that could be explained by a frame shift mutation incpsAgene encoding capsular polysaccharide (CPS) biosynthesis protein. Compared with the mono-evolution, co-evolvedB. velezensispopulations showed greater mutation accumulation in intergenic regions, which led to greater genetic parallelism. Furthermore, the dissimilarity between mono-evolved and co-evolved populations increased over time. Our study reveals intricate genetic diversification and fitness differentiation within a biofilm consortium, shaped by both abiotic conditions and biotic interactions.
Non-muscle myosin 2 can incorporate into established filaments in cells without an assembly competence domain
Authors: Wu Kehan , Patel Hiral , Wu Huini , Quintanilla Melissa A. , Bennett Margaret A. , Sala Stefano , Beach Jordan R.
Published: July 2024

Myosin 2 dynamically assembles into filaments that exert force on the actin cytoskeleton. To form filaments, myosin 2 monomers transition between folded and unfolded states. Monomer unfolding exposes an extended coiled-coil that interacts with other monomers in parallel and antiparallel fashions, enabling bipolar filament formation. A C-terminal domain of the coiled-coil, termed assembly competence domain (ACD), has been repeatedly identified as necessary for filament assembly. Here, we revisit ACD contribution when full-length filaments are present. Non-muscle myosin 2A lacking the ACD (ΔACD) initially appears diffuse, but triton extraction of cytosolic fraction reveals cytoskeletal association. Disruption of the folded monomer enhances the cytoskeletal fraction, while inhibition of endogenous filament assembly appears to reduce it. Finally, high resolution imaging of endogenous and exogenous bipolar filamentous structures reveals highly coincident signal, suggesting ΔACD constructs co-assemble with endogenous myosin 2A filaments. Our data demonstrate that while the ACD is required for de novo filament assembly, it is not required for monomers to recognize and associate with established filaments in cells. More broadly, this highlights the existence of distinct mechanisms governing myosin 2 monomer assembly into nascent filaments, and monomer recognition and association with established filaments to maintain steady-state contractile networks.
Diet pattern determines circulating FGF21 levels while distinct FGF21 variants influence diet pattern and FGF21 levels
Authors: Ramne Stina , García-Ureña Mario , Gillum Matthew P , Ängquist Lars , Hansen Torben , Merino Jordi , Grarup Niels
Published: July 2024

Experimental and genetic studies suggest that FGF21 modulates macronutrient and alcohol preferences. However, FGF21's regulation of human appetite remains elusive. To address this gap in translation, we investigated the relationships between plasma FGF21 levels, FGF21 genetic variation and habitual macronutrient intake in a large human population. We show that the main macronutrient-associated variant rs838133 and the FGF21 cis-pQTL rs838131, both in the FGF21 gene, are distinct genetic signals. Effect directions also suggest that the influence of FGF21 variation on macronutrient intake appear more complex than by direct mediation through plasma FGF21. Only when considering this complexity at FGF21, is plasma FGF21 estimated to reduce alcohol and increase protein and fat intake using mendelian randomization. Importantly, plasma FGF21 levels are also markedly elevated by high alcohol and low protein intake. This supports the diet-regulatory mechanism of FGF21 in humans, but highlights the need for mechanistic characterization of the FGF21 genetic region.
The National Psychiatric Morbidity Survey of Pakistan (2022): Prevalence, socio-demographic and disability correlates
Authors: Rahman R , Sheehan D , Javed A , Ahmad SH , Shafiq K , Kanwal U , Afridi MI , Nizami AT , Rasool G , Taj R , Ansari M , Naim M , Farooq S , Memon A , Karim MS , Hana Y , Ayub M.
Published: July 2024

Background

National psychiatric morbidity surveys have shown a wide range of prevalence of psychiatric disorders across different countries. Pakistan with its sociocultural and ethnic diversity, has the fifth largest population in the world. There was no prior high-quality nationally representative data on the prevalence of psychiatric disorders and their socio-demographic correlates for Pakistan. To fill this gap in the planning of mental health services, the Pakistan Psychiatric Society conducted the National Psychiatric Morbidity Survey (NPMS) of Pakistan, in the years 2019-2022.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and socio-demographic correlates of psychiatric morbidity in a representative sample of Pakistan.

Methods

The cross-sectional NPMS collected data from the four provinces of Pakistan. After selection through a three-stage, stratified, random cluster sampling technique we interviewed 17,773 adults above the age of 18. We used the MINI International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI Version 7.0.2) to evaluate psychiatric morbidity. Current and lifetime precise and weighted prevalence is reported according to ICD-10 (International Classification of Disease-10thversion). We used multivariate logistic regression to investigate the association between the risk of psychiatric illness and sociodemographic variables. National Bio-ethic Committee of Pakistan granted approval of survey.

Results

The lifetime and current weighted prevalence of all psychiatric disorder is 37.91% (95% Confidence Interval (CI) =37.22-38.59) and 32.28% (95% CI=31.62-32.94) respectively. The weighted prevalence of common psychiatric disorders in Pakistan included Mood Disorders (F30-F39; 19.62%), Neurotic and Stress-related Disorders (F40 F48; 24.81%), Psychotic Disorders (F20-F29; 4.52%) and Mental and Behavioural Problems due to Psychoactive Substance use (F10-F19; 0.85%). The psychiatric disorders had an association with age, female gender, urban living, lower income and being divorced. Among participants, 6.17% acknowledged suicidality in the past month, while 1.05% acknowledged a lifetime suicide attempt.

Conclusion

The NPMS is the first nationally representative study of psychiatric morbidities in Pakistan. The data from this survey can be utilized for designing and implementing mental health services and support programmes in the country.
Use of robust norming to create a sensitive cognitive summary score inde novoParkinson’s disease
Authors: Weintraub Daniel , Brumm Michael C. , Kurth Ryan , York Michele K. ,   the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative
Published: July 2024

Background and Objectives

Cognitive impairment is common at all stages in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, the field is hampered by consensus over which neuropsychological tests to use and how to utilize the results generated by a cognitive battery. An option that combines the richness of a neuropsychological battery with the simplicity of a single test score is a cognitive summary score (CSS). The objective was to determine if a CSS created using robust norming is sensitive in detecting early cognitive deficits inde novo, untreated PD.

Methods

Using baseline cognitive data from PD participants and healthy controls (HCs) in the Parkinson’s Progression Markers Initiative, these steps were taken: (1) creating a robust HC subgroup that did not demonstrate cognitive decline over time; (2) using the robust HC subgroup to create regression-based internally-derived standardized scores (z-scores) for six cognitive scores across five tests; and (3) creating a CSS by averaging all standardized test z-scores.

Results

PD participants scored worse than HCs on all cognitive tests, with a larger effect size (PD versus HCs) when the comparison group was the robust HC subgroup compared with all HCs. Applying internally-derived norms rather than published norms, the largest cognitive domain effect sizes (PD vs. robust HCs) were for processing speed/working memory (Cohen’s d= -0.55) and verbal episodic memory (Cohen’s d= -0.48 and -0.52). In addition, using robust norming shifted PD performance from the middle of the average range (CSS z-score= -0.01) closer to low average (CSS z-score= -0.40), with the CSS having a larger effect size (PD vs. robust HC subgroup; Cohen’s d= -0.60) compared with all individual cognitive tests.

Discussion

PD patients perform worse cognitively than HC at disease diagnosis on multiple cognitive domains, particularly information processing speed and verbal memory. Using robust norming increases effect sizes and lowers the scores of PD patients to “expected” levels. The CSS performed better than all individual cognitive tests. A CSS developed using a robust norming process may be sensitive to cognitive changes in the earliest stages of PD and have utility as an outcome measure in clinical research, including clinical trials.
Overlap between COPD genetic association results and transcriptional quantitative trait loci
Authors: Saferali Aabida , Kim Wonji , Chase Robert P. ,   NHLBI TransOmics in Precision Medicine (TOPMed), Vollmers Chris , Silverman Edwin K. , Cho Michael H. , Castaldi Peter J. , Hersh Craig P.
Published: July 2024

Rationale

Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have identified multiple genetic loci associated with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). When integrated with GWAS results, expression quantitative trait locus (eQTL) studies can provide insight into biological mechanisms involved in disease by identifying single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) that contribute to whole gene expression. However, there are multiple genetically driven regulatory and isoform-specific effects which cannot be detected in traditional eQTL analyses. Here, we identify SNPs that are associated with alternative splicing (sQTL) in addition to eQTLs to identify novel functions for COPD associated genetic variants.

Methods

We performed RNA sequencing on whole blood from 3743 subjects in the COPDGene Study. RNA sequencing data from lung tissue of 1241 subjects from the Lung Tissue Research Consortium (LTRC), and whole genome sequencing data on all subjects. Associations between all SNPs within 1000 kb of a gene (cis-) and splice and gene expression quantifications were tested using tensorQTL. In COPDGene a total of 11,869,333 SNPs were tested for association with 58,318 splice clusters, and 8,792,206 SNPs were tested for association with 70,094 splice clusters in LTRC. We assessed colocalization with COPD-associated SNPs from a published GWAS[1].

Results

After adjustment for multiple statistical testing, we identified 28,110 splice-sites corresponding to 3,889 unique genes that were significantly associated with genotype in COPDGene whole blood, and 58,258 splice-sites corresponding to 10,307 unique genes associated with genotype in LTRC lung tissue. We found 7,576 sQTL splice-sites corresponding to 2,110 sQTL genes were shared between whole blood and lung, while 20,534 sQTL splice-sites in 3,518 genes were unique to blood and 50,682 splice-sites in 9,677 genes were unique to lung. To determine what proportion of COPD-associated SNPs were associated with transcriptional splicing, we performed colocalization analysis between COPD GWAS and sQTL data, and found that 38 genomic windows, corresponding to 38 COPD GWAS loci had evidence of colocalization between QTLs and COPD. The top five colocalizations between COPD and lung sQTLs includeNPNT,FBXO38,HHIP,NTN4andBTC.

Conclusions

A total of 38 COPD GWAS loci contain evidence of sQTLs, suggesting that analysis of sQTLs in whole blood and lung tissue can provide novel insights into disease mechanisms.
Seasonal changes in fish eDNA signal vary between contrasting river types
Authors: Griffiths Nathan P. , Bolland Jonathan D. , Wright Rosalind M. , Blabolil Petr , Macarthur James A. , Sellers Graham S. , Hänfling Bernd
Published: July 2024

Due to the societal reliance on goods and services provided by river systems, and their close proximity to settlements, few modern-day rivers are without significant anthropogenic modifications. The natural river hydrology is often altered as a consequence of pumping water for flood alleviation, retaining water for irrigation and modifying channels for navigation. In recent years, water pumping stations have been found to have several adverse impacts, including fish mortality (direct and indirect) and habitat fragmentation. More broadly, modern-day river systems face a myriad of anthropogenic flow and channel modifications, with varying impacts on different fish life stages. To manage such risks in line with policy, knowledge of the overall fish community and priority species present is required. It is therefore important to understand the robustness of developing survey strategies across differently managed river systems. This study investigates the seasonal patterns of environmental DNA (eDNA) metabarcoding detections from water samples, taken across three differently managed river types over a one-year period. We observed some significant seasonal variation in detection rates and fish communities; however, this variation was not consistent among river types. Despite this, we found comparatively poor fish communities upstream of pumping stations all year-round, with pumped catchments containing significantly fewer species than the adjacent main river channel and our regional control site. Finally, we highlight that seasonal variation in detectability for the overall fish community may not always reflect that of priority species. In our case, we found favourable European eel (Anguilla anguilla) detection in the summer months across all river types. It is therefore recommended that rather than focusing on overall detectability, policy driven targeted surveys should be designed with priority species ecology in mind.
Backbone-mediated weakening of pairwise interactions enables percolation in peptide-based mimics of protein condensates
Authors: Zeng Xiangze , Pappu Rohit V.
Published: July 2024

Biomolecular condensates formed by intrinsically disordered proteins (IDPs) condensates are semidilute solutions. These can be approximated as solutions of blob-sized segments, which can be as small as peptide-sized motifs. We leveraged the blob picture to quantify differences between inter-residue interactions in model compound and peptide-based mimics of dense versus dilute phases. The all-atom molecular dynamics simulations use the polarizable AMOEBA forcefield. In model compound solutions, the interactions between aromatic residues are stronger than interactions between cationic and aromatic residues. This holds in dilute and dense phases. Cooperativity within dense phases enhances pairwise interactions leading to finite-sized nanoscale clusters. The results for peptide-based condensates paint a different picture. Backbone amides add valence to the associating molecules. While this maintains or enhances pairwise inter-residue interactions in dilute phases, it weakens pair interactions in dense phases. Weakening of pair interactions enables fluidization characterized by short-range order and long-range disorder. The higher valence afforded by the peptide backbone becomes a generator of system-spanning networks. As a result, dense phases of peptides are best described as percolated network fluids. Overall, our results show how peptide backbones enhance pairwise interactions in dilute phases whole weakening these interactions in dense phases to enable percolation within dense phases.
Simulating quantum field theories on continuous-variable quantum computers
Authors: Abel Steven , Spannowsky Michael , Williams Simon
Published: July 2024

We delve into the use of photonic quantum computing to simulate quantum mechanics and extend its application towards quantum field theory. We develop and prove a method that leverages this form of continuous-variable quantum computing (CVQC) to reproduce the time evolution of quantum-mechanical states under arbitrary Hamiltonians, and we demonstrate the method's remarkable efficacy with various potentials. Our method centers on constructing an , a specially prepared quantum state that induces the desired time evolution on the target state. This is achieved by introducing a non-Gaussian operation using a measurement-based quantum computing approach, enhanced by machine learning. Furthermore, we propose a framework in which these methods can be extended to encode field theories in CVQC without discretizing the field values, thus preserving the continuous nature of the fields. This opens new avenues for quantum computing applications in quantum field theory.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Electric double layer in ionic liquids: A result of interplay between coupling effects and phase demixing
Authors: Lee YeongKyu , Cho JunBeom , Lee Yongkyu , Lee Won Bo , Jho YongSeok
Published: July 2024

Ionic liquids (ILs) are appealing electrolytes for their favorable physicochemical properties. However, despite their longstanding use, understanding the capacitive behavior of ILs remains challenging. This is largely due to the formation of a nonconventional electric double layer (EDL) at the electrode-electrolyte interface. This study shows that the short-range Yukawa interactions, representing the large anisotropically charged ILs, demix IL to create a spontaneous surface charge separation, which is reinforced by the strongly coupled charge interaction. The properties of the condensed layer, the onset of charge separation, and the rise of overscreening and crowding critically depend on the asymmetry of Yukawa interactions.

Published by the American Physical Society
2024
Intention-behaviour gap in organic food consumption: a dual-moderated mediation model
Authors: Nguyen Thi Thu Trang , Nguyen Thi Phuong Linh
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The paper is aimed at examining the mediating role of action and coping plans in reducing intention-behaviour gap as a function of underlying perceived self-efficacy [action self-efficacy (ActS) and coping self-efficacy (CopS)] in organic food (OF) consumption.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional study was designed to examine the moderating role of perceived self-efficacy in the intention–plans–behaviour relationship. To test the theoretical framework, data from 453 valid questionnaires were recruited in Hanoi (Vietnam) and were analysed to test validity and reliability before being evaluated for hypothesis testing by Smart-PLS 4.0.

Findings

The results indicate that action and coping plans have significant positive effects on the relationship between intention and behaviour. CopS has a significant positive effect on the two paths of the intention-coping plan-behaviour mediation, whereas action plan (AP) has merely a significant positive link to the intention-AP path.

Research limitations/implications

There are several limitations of the paper, including a small and undiversified-characteristic sample and general OF.

Practical implications

The findings of the study make recommendations for marketers to boost OF consumption in Vietnam.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine a dual-moderated mediation model in narrowing the intention-behaviour gap, especially in the context of OF consumption. Particularly, the notions of plan and self-efficacy are divided into sub-constructs on the basis of different functions and both paths in the intention-plan-behaviour mediation are investigated. AP and coping plan are served as dual mediators, whereas ActS is regarded as moderator for both paths of intention-AP-behaviour link and CopS is examined as moderator for both paths of intention–coping plan–behaviour relationship, providing a holistic mechanism in translating intention into behaviour.
Evaluating and classifying market alternatives using the CAPMA technique to assess potential export volume: an application for Turkey’s fig exports
Authors: Baki Rahmi
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Appropriate target market selection and classification are complex, time-consuming, and strategically important management decisions. The current study proposes and implements a new systematic approach that evaluates and ranks alternative markets’ potential to increase the export volume of Turkey’s fig exports.

Design/methodology/approach

The classification approach of potential market alternatives (CAPMA) method, which was developed to evaluate, compare, and classify alternative markets according to their potential, was used in this study. CAPMA, an objective decision-making technique, is based on calculating the classification coefficient and classifying the alternatives into four dimensions, taking this coefficient into consideration. In the current study, 25 alternative markets were analysed on the basis of four evaluation criteria and classified into four dimensions according to their potential to increase export volume.

Findings

According to the application results, alternative markets with the greatest potential to increase export volume were identified as the United States of America (USA), Netherlands, China, and Spain. The USA has the greatest potential for expansion of export volume. By implementing correct and effective marketing strategies, fig export volume has the potential to reach very high levels.

Originality/value

The study’s results on alternative markets for fig exports were categorized, countries with greater potential to increase export volume were identified, and findings that could contribute to the development of the sector were obtained. The approach proposed in the current research can be used to determine the target market of many other products, especially agricultural products, whose production is concentrated within a specific geography.
Analyzing how COVID-19 moderates the relationship between organizational learning capabilities, technological innovation, supply chain management and enterprise performance in the automobile industry
Authors: Nazir Samera , Mehmood Saqib , Zhaolei Li , Nazir Zarish , Nazir Sana
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study explored how COVID-19 moderated the relationship between organizational learning capabilities (OLCs), technological innovation (TI), supply chain management (SMC) processes and enterprise performance (EP). It aimed to give ideas on how organizations could change and do well during big disruptions.

Design/methodology/approach

Design: A structured questionnaire served as the data collection tool, employing a stratified sampling technique. Partial least squares (PLS) was utilized for data processing. Information was gathered from the automobile industry in Xian, China, providing an in-depth understanding of how COVID-19 moderated the variables under examination.

Findings

The study discovered that COVID-19 changed how organizational learning, TI, SCM and EP interacted. Some organizations had trouble keeping up with learning and innovation, but others used them to make their SCM stronger, leading to better performance. Also, different effects of COVID-19 were seen in various industries and organizations.

Practical implications

This study provided practical implications for managers, policymakers and practitioners. It emphasized fostering OLCs and TI as crucial for resilience during disruptions like COVID-19. Strategic investments in SCM were highlighted to mitigate disruptions and seize opportunities. Additionally, context-specific approaches were underscored for navigating pandemic-induced challenges.

Originality/value

This study enhanced existing literature by analyzing how COVID-19 moderated the link between organizational learning, TI, SCM and EP. Through diverse methodologies and organizational contexts, it offered fresh insights into dynamic organizational responses to disruptions, advancing both theoretical understanding and practical knowledge in the field.
Decision making performance of business analytics capabilities: the role of big data literacy and analytics competency
Authors: Fattah Ikhsan A.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the relationships between data governance (DG), business analytics capabilities (BAC), and decision-making performance (DMP), with a focus on the mediating effects of big data literacy (BDL) and data analytics competency (DAC).

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted with 178 experienced managers in public service organizations, using a quantitative approach. Structural equation modeling (SEM) and mediation tests were employed to analyze the data.

Findings

The findings reveal that DG and BDL are critical antecedents for developing analytical capabilities. Big data literacy mediates the relationship between DG and BAC, while BAC mediates the relationship between DG and DMP. Furthermore, DAC mediates the relationship between BA capabilities and DMP, explaining most of the effect of BAC on DMP.

Practical implications

These results highlight the importance of DG in fostering BDL and analytical skills for improved decision-making in organizations.

Originality/value

By prioritizing DG practices that promote BDL and analytical capabilities, organizations can leverage business analytics to enhance decision-making.
Team-level HR practices and team engagement: mediating role of team-level psychological capital
Authors: Farrukh Muhammad , Attiq Saman , Rafiq Muhammad , Raza Ali , Ansari Nabeel Younus
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Although the importance of high-performance work practices to foster individual-level outcomes is well documented, how team-level perception of HPWPs impacts team-level outcomes is not well researched, particularly in the hospitality sector. To fill this research gap, the role of team-level perception of HPWPs in fostering team engagement through team psychological capital is investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey was conducted using a structured questionnaire.

Findings

The study findings suggest that in the presence of HPWPs, front-line service employees have high psychological resources and are more engaged in performing their organizational tasks.

Originality/value

The hotel management should benefit from high-performance work practices to enhance employees' attachment with their service organizations for exhibiting work engagement.
Foresight and the scamper technique: a combination of collective intelligence strategies for building innovation capacity
Authors: Perez Perez Juan Ernesto
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The aim of this research paper is to present a new model of innovation management under the approach of anticipatory collective intelligence strategies to improve the innovation capacity of products and business processes. The paper presents a case study of Café Galavis, one of the oldest family-owned companies in the Colombian coffee sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive mixed-methods research design was used. Ten experts and the general manager of the organization were interviewed using a semi-structured format. Additionally, a creativity and innovation workshop were conducted with the participation of 140 young people between the ages of 21 and 28. The traditional product of the company was evaluated using the SCAMPER technique. On the other hand, a strategic approach was taken to address the complex problem. This involved conducting a bibliometric analysis using Vosviewer software, prioritizing key variables and actors’ game through MICMAC and MACTOR software, seeking expert judgment, conducting morphological analysis, generating scenarios under the Peter Schwartz axes and designing a strategic plan.

Findings

The paper presents a new approach to developing innovation processes by connecting foresight and the SCAMPER technique as a strategy for anticipatory collective intelligence. Furthermore, it was found that the use of these methods enhances the innovation capacity of both products and business processes. Organizations can implement this model to create plans with disruptive and sustainable horizons.

Practical implications

The paper presents methods to enhance the adoption and performance of innovation in companies through collective anticipatory intelligence and the use of digital tools.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a novel approach to combining two future methods to promote innovation. This study makes a theoretical and practical contribution to the field of foresight.
Lean manufacturing for reducing lead time in foundry processes: a design science approach
Authors: Sordan Juliano Endrigo Endrigo , Oprime Pedro Carlos , Ferreira José Leonardo , Marinho Clesio Aparecido , Pata Arminda
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The lean manufacturing (LM) approach is a highly effective method that can be implemented in any industry to streamline production processes, meet customer demand and eliminate any unnecessary waste. This paper aims to propose and evaluate a generic project-based framework grounded on the LM approach for reducing lead time in foundry processes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using design science research (DSR), we developed a generic LM project-based framework for reducing lead time in foundry processes.

Findings

The developed framework provides an alternative method to implement LM projects to reduce lead time and nonvalue activities in foundry factories.

Practical implications

The findings of this research can guide better lean practitioners for lead time reduction in foundry processes.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the operational excellence literature when discussing the impact of the LM approach on foundry processes. In addition, the paper provides a roadmap for reducing lead time in a foundry company.
“See results anyway”: auditing social media as educational technology
Authors: Heath Marie K. , Krutka Daniel G , Gleason Benjamin
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This paper aims to consider the role of social media platforms as educational technologies given growing evidence of harms to democracy, society and individuals, particularly through logics of efficiency, racism, misogyny and surveillance inextricably designed into the architectural and algorithmic bones of social media. The paper aims to uncover downsides and drawbacks of for-profit social media, as well as consider the discriminatory design embedded within its blueprints.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used a method of a technological audit, framed through the lenses of technoskepticism and discriminatory design, to consider the unintended downsides and consequences of Twitter and Instagram.

Findings

The authors provide evidence from a variety of sources to demonstrate that Instagram and Twitter’s intersection of technological design, systemic oppression, platform capitalism and algorithmic manipulation cause material harm to marginalized people and youth.

Research limitations/implications

The authors contend that it is a conflict of professional ethics to treat social media as an educational technology that should be used by youth in educational settings. Thus, they suggest that future scholarship focus more on addressing methods of teaching about social media rather than teaching with social media.

Practical implications

The paper concludes with recommendations for educators who might work alongside young people to learn about social media while taking informed social actions for more just technological futures.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to challenge the direction of the field of social media and education research. It is of use to education scholars, practitioners and policy makers.
The impact of industrial robot uses on the labor cost stickiness of Chinese firms
Authors: Chen Xichan , Chen Feng , Liu Xing , Zhao Mei
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The study aims to investigate the impact of industrial robot application on corporate labor cost stickiness and labor investment efficiency in China.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the textual analysis to construct firm-level industrial robot application indicators in China, we implement the methodology in Anderson et al. (2003) and Banker and Byzalov (2014) to estimate cost stickiness.

Findings

We argue that the industrial robot uses in China would increase firms’ labor adjustment costs by increasing the employment scale and upgrading the employment structure (i.e. by employing more high-skilled and high-educated labor). Consistent with our expectation through the channel of labor adjustment costs, the use of robotics increases firms’ labor cost stickiness. We further find that the positive impact is more significant among labor-intensive industries, and among state-owned enterprises with lower labor adjustment flexibility. We also find that industrial robot uses do not decrease the labor cost stickiness even when robots are more likely to substitute labor. Finally, we find that industrial robot uses significantly facilitate more efficient hiring practices by mitigating overinvestment in labor (i.e. over-hiring).

Originality/value

Against the backdrop of intelligent manufacturing worldwide, our study sheds new insight into the effects of new technologies on corporate labor cost behavior in developing countries. We contribute to scant studies examining how robotics, AI adoption or other automation technologies (e.g. specialized machinery, software, etc.) affect corporate cost behavior.
Reimagining chronic pain management: the case for integrated care in India
Authors: Satyanarayana Mahalakshmi , Ranganathan Shubha
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The viewpoint essay focusses on the significance of integrated care (IC) for chronic pain in India, in an attempt to reflect on how pain management and care can be made more accessible and available to patients.

Design/methodology/approach

This reflective essay invites looking at chronic pain beyond biomedical perspectives. Insights from the medical humanities and the social sciences are used to emphasise chronic pain as a psychosocial and socio-political phenomenon and not just a biomedical category.

Findings

The essay argues that there are several challenges and barriers to the recognition and validation of chronic pain as a speciality.

Originality/value

IC has not received sufficient attention in the Indian context, where medical curricula and training do not sufficiently include an understanding of the multi-faceted aspects surrounding chronic pain. By highlighting the role of humanistic approaches to effectively bridge the gap, this viewpoint essay illustrates the significance of drawing on an integrated or holistic healthcare framework.
The effect of debt intensity on the asymmetric cost behavior: empirical evidence from local governments
Authors: Karatzimas Sotirios , Naoum Vasilios Christos , Seretis Paschalis
Published: July 2024

Purpose

This study explores the relationship between debt intensity and cost stickiness at the local government level, a setting characterized by the existence of debt constraints and political influence.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on a theoretical framework informed by the concepts of coercive isomorphism and accountability, the present study focuses on Greek municipalities and applies Anderson et al.’s (2003) extended methodology, as reviewed by Banker and Byzalov (2014), in a sample of 1,366 municipality year observations for the period 2011–2020.

Findings

The results indicate that the degree of cost asymmetry is negatively associated with debt intensity. Periods before elections present the same picture. This negative relationship becomes insignificant in the case of large municipalities, which probably require more resources to support their operations and incur higher adjustment costs for reducing resources. These findings are robust to use alternative types of expenses associated with cost stickiness and a battery of control variables.

Originality/value

Little is known about the impact of debt level and financial constraints on cost behavior in the public sector context. This study takes a fresh look at the relationship between municipal debt structure and cost stickiness, adding to the understanding of cost behavior considering the debt level, financial constraints, resource-adjustment costs and the underlying managerial behavior.
Exploring middle manager’s identity as strategists within a public sector organisation: a multi-level perspective
Authors: Mamburu Mishumo Emmanuel , de Metz Nadine , Davis Annemarie
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Amidst calls for more research that combines the concepts of identity and strategy, particularly in a public sector context, this study explored the identity dynamics between two groups of managers within a multi-level perspective in a government department. The aim of this study is to provide a dynamic and holistic view of how middle manager identity is experienced and how best to utilise middle managers and their abilities.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a practice-based perspective, the study used a case study design, and 26 in-depth interviews were conducted with 2 groups, namely directors and middle managers.

Findings

Findings revealed that, whilst participating middle managers were viewed as critical strategists, there was a misalignment of expectations between directors and middle managers, and this reflected an ambiguous and complex environment where middle managers were situated. The findings also reflected tensions and power dynamics evident between middle managers and their direct supervisors, and these shaped the way in which middle managers responded to or were influenced by such tensions. Our research confirms the dynamic nature of identity at a multi-level perspective.

Practical implications

The findings of the current study may be useful in providing insight into how middle managers can be utilised to the best of their ability within a public sector department.

Originality/value

The study contributes to strategy-identity studies using a practice-oriented lens in an under-explored government context. We present a better understanding of the reciprocal tensions and inter-relationships between identity and strategy from the perspective of two levels and explore how this affects strategy practices and processes.
Personal power and shared leadership in teams: roles of taking charge behaviors and learning orientation
Authors: Song Zhigang , Gu Qinxuan
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Drawing on power approach-inhibition theory, this study aims to theorize a cross-level model to examine how team member personal power (i.e. expert power and referent power) impacts shared leadership through activating their taking charge behaviors in R&D teams, as well as the moderating effect of team learning orientation on the relationship between team member taking charge behaviors and shared leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

With multisource data collected from 264 employees in 58 R&D teams from 13 companies, this study tested the hypotheses of the cross-level theoretical model using Mplus 7.4.

Findings

The results showed that team member expert power was positively related to their taking charge behaviors, which in turn led to shared leadership, while team member referent power was not significantly related to their taking charge behaviors. Furthermore, the positive relationship between team member taking charge behaviors and shared leadership was strengthened by team learning orientation.

Practical implications

This paper offers suggestions regarding how vertical leaders should pay attention to team member power to promote their change-oriented taking charge behaviors and address team learning to strengthen the effect of team member taking charge behaviors on shared leadership.

Originality/value

By echoing the changing focus towards a shared leading process among team members in leadership literature, this paper provides important insights for both scholars and practitioners to understand the role that power plays in activating team member taking charge behaviors which in turn improves shared leadership.
The paradoxes of U.S. graduate assistantships in education: navigating competing tensions and the impact of stress on graduate wellbeing
Authors: Christiaens Roman , Haeger Heather , Simms Sy , BrckaLorenz Allison
Published: July 2024

Purpose

Graduate students employed in graduate teaching and research assistantship positions have a unique experience of the institution because of their status as student-employees. Graduate assistants (GAs) face specific challenges around their well-being as they navigate various relationships and environments throughout their educational trajectory. The purpose of this study is to examine the specific workplace challenges GAs experience and their overall effect on GA wellbeing.

Design/methodology/approach

This research study examines graduate assistant responses from 12 US research universities to the Faculty Survey of student Engagement for Graduate student Instructors survey. This study’s analysis examined the open-ended responses (n = 493) at the end of the survey that asked participants for additional comments regarding their departmental and/or institutional experiences. Three waves of coding were implemented by the authors to identify common themes and areas of concern on GA working conditions.

Findings

The findings led to the creation of a concept map on GA working conditions that include three main components: contextual factors, stress and well-being and competing tensions. Within each component are subthemes related to social identity, funding, campus climate, time and priority concerns and assistantship structure and support. The map demonstrates the enmeshed connection across areas.

Practical implications

Findings suggest institutional investments through programming, system-level changes and interpersonal support to improve GA working conditions and their well-being.

Originality/value

Research on GA experiences with working conditions and well-being in a US context is limited. This study is valuable because many graduate students who occupy graduate assistantships are asking for increased pay and benefits at their institution. Graduate assistantship labor organizing is occurring alongside institutions’ focus on improving health outcomes for graduate students.
Using social risks to predict unplanned hospital readmission and emergency care among hospitalized Veterans
Authors: Cornell Portia Y. , Hua Cassandra L. , Buchalksi Zachary M. , Chmelka Gina R. , Cohen Alicia J. , Daus Marguerite M. , Halladay Christopher W. , Harmon Alita , Silva Jennifer W. , Rudolph James L.
Published: July 2024

Objectives

(1) To estimate the association of social risk factors with unplanned readmission and emergency care after a hospital stay. (2) To create a social risk scoring index.

Data Sources and Setting

We analyzed administrative data from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Corporate Data Warehouse. Settings were VA medical centers that participated in a national social work staffing program.

Study Design

We grouped socially relevant diagnoses, screenings, assessments, and procedure codes into nine social risk domains. We used logistic regression to examine the extent to which domains predicted unplanned hospital readmission and emergency department (ED) use in 30 days after hospital discharge. Covariates were age, sex, and medical readmission risk score. We used model estimates to create a percentile score signaling Veterans' health‐related social risk.

Data Extraction

We included 156,690 Veterans' admissions to a VA hospital with discharged to home from 1 October, 2016 to 30 September, 2022.

Principal Findings

The 30‐day rate of unplanned readmission was 0.074 and of ED use was 0.240. After adjustment, the social risks with greatest probability of readmission were food insecurity (adjusted probability = 0.091 [95% confidence interval: 0.082, 0.101]), legal need (0.090 [0.079, 0.102]), and neighborhood deprivation (0.081 [0.081, 0.108]); versus no social risk (0.052). The greatest adjusted probabilities of ED use were among those who had experienced food insecurity (adjusted probability 0.28 [0.26, 0.30]), legal problems (0.28 [0.26, 0.30]), and violence (0.27 [0.25, 0.29]), versus no social risk (0.21). Veterans with social risk scores in the 95th percentile had greater rates of unplanned care than those with 95th percentile Care Assessment Needs score, a clinical prediction tool used in the VA.

Conclusions

Veterans with social risks may need specialized interventions and targeted resources after a hospital stay. We propose a scoring method to rate social risk for use in clinical practice and future research.
Assessing the nonlinear impact of population aging on energy footprint: From the perspective of labor productivity and high‐quality economic development
Authors: Yang Xiyue , Cheng Shixiong , Ahmad Mahmood
Published: July 2024

Amidst the ongoing low‐carbon transition, the phenomenon of population aging is receiving increasing attention. Nevertheless, the relationship between population aging and environmental quality has not been conclusively established, and existing studies have yet to delve into the mechanism of the effect of population aging on energy and environmental quality. This paper utilizes the panel data of 30 Chinese provinces and regions from 2000 to 2019 and constructs the benchmark model, the nonlinear mediating effect, and the nonlinear moderating effect models to explore the nonlinear association between population aging and energy footprint, respectively. Additionally, we develop a comprehensive aging index employing principal component analysis (PCA) and measure the energy footprint by carbon sink approach. The results show that population aging has a nonlinear effect on the energy footprint with an inverted “U” shape and there is an inflection point on the curve of value 0.453. We also verify that population aging indirectly affects the energy footprint through its nonlinear impact on labor productivity, with an instantaneous mediating effect of 3.0902. Furthermore, the high‐quality economic development has a nonlinear moderating impact on the inverted “U”‐shape between population aging and energy footprint. As the level of high‐quality economic development increases, the shape of the inverted “U” curve flattens out, and the inflection point shifts to the left. Among the five sub‐indicators of high‐quality economic development, green development has the most significant effect on the inverted “U” curve of population aging and energy footprint. These noteworthy findings offer valuable insights for formulating effective strategies to enhance the favorable effects of aging on environmental quality from multifaceted perspectives.