bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relationship between dynamic functional network connectivity and spatial orientation in healthy young adults
Authors: Sendi Mohammad S. E. , Ellis Charles A. , Miller Robyn L. , Salat David H. , Calhoun Vince D.
Published: February 2021

Spatial orientation is essential to interacting with a physical environment, and better understanding it could contribute to a better understanding of a variety of diseases and disorders that are characterized by deficits in spatial orientation. Many previous studies have focused on the relationship between spatial orientation and individual brain regions, though in recent years studies have begun to examine spatial orientation from a network perspective. This study analyzes dynamic functional network connectivity (dFNC) values extracted from over 800 resting-state fMRI recordings of healthy young adults (age 22-37 years) and applies unsupervised machine learning methods to identify neural brain states that occur across all subjects. We estimated the occupancy rate (OCR) for each subject, which was proportional to the amount of time that they spent in each state, and investigated the link between the OCR and spatial orientation and the state-specific FNC values and spatial orientation controlling for age and sex. Our findings showed that the amount of time subjects spent in a state characterized by increased connectivity within and between visual, auditory, and sensorimotor networks and within the default mode network while at rest corresponded to their performance on tests of spatial orientation. We also found that increased sensorimotor network connectivity in two of the identified states negatively correlated with decreased spatial orientation, further highlighting the relationship between the sensorimotor network and spatial orientation. This study provides insight into how the temporal properties of the functional brain connectivity within and between key brain networks may influence spatial orientation.
EZH2 Engages TGFβ Signaling to Promote Breast Cancer Bone Metastasis via Integrin β1-FAK Activation
Authors: Zhang Lin , Qu Jingkun , Qi Yutao , Huang Yu-Wen , Zhou Zhifen , Li Ping , Yao Jun , Huang Beibei , Zhang Shuxing , Yu Dihua
Published: February 2021

Bone metastasis is a frequent complication of breast cancer, occurring in about 50-70% of breast cancer patients with late-stage disease. The lack of effective therapy suggests that the precise molecular mechanisms underlying bone metastasis are still unclear. Enhancer of zeste homolog 2 (EZH2) is considered a breast cancer oncogene and its expression is correlated with metastasis of breast cancer, but its function in bone metastasis has not been well explored. Herein we report that EZH2 promotes osteolytic metastasis of breast cancer through regulating transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling, a key pathway in bone metastasis. Knocking down EZH2 decreases bone metastasis incidence and outgrowthin vivo. EZH2 induces cancer cell proliferation and osteoclast maturation, when breast cancer cells are co-cultured with osteoblasts and osteoclasts togetherin vitro. Mechanistically, EZH2 increases transcription ofITGB1, which encodes for integrin β1. Integrin β1 activates focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which phosphorylates TGFβ receptor type I (TGFβRI) at tyrosine 182, thus enhances the binding of TGFβRI to TGFβ receptor type II (TGFβRII), therefore activates Smad2 and increases parathyroid hormone-like hormone (PTHLH) expression. Clinically applicable FAK inhibitors but not EZH2 methyltransferase inhibitor effectively inhibits breast cancer bone metastasisin vivo. Overall, our data signify integrin β1-FAK as a new downstream effector of EZH2 in breast cancer cells, and EZH2-integrin β1-FAK axis cooperates with TGFβ signaling pathway to promote bone metastasis of breast cancer.
Individual variability of neural computations in the primate retina
Authors: Shah Nishal , Brackbill Nora , Samarakoon Ryan , Rhoades Colleen , Kling Alexandra , Sher Alexander , Litke Alan , Singer Yoram , Shlens Jonathon , Chichilnisky E.J.
Published: February 2021

Variation in the neural code contributes to making each individual unique. We probed neural code variation using ∼100 neural population recordings from major ganglion cell types in the macaque retina, combined with an interpretable computational representation of individual variability using machine learning. This representation captured individual variation and covariation in properties such as nonlinearity, temporal dynamics, and spatial receptive field size, while preserving invariances, such as asymmetries between ON and OFF cells. The covariation of response properties in different cell types was associated with the proximity of lamination of their synaptic inputs. Surprisingly, male retinas exhibited higher firing rates and faster temporal integration than female retinas. Exploiting data from previously recorded macaque retinas enabled efficient characterization of a new macaque retina, and of a human retina. Simulations indicated that combining a vast dataset of healthy macaque recordings with behavioral feedback could be used to identify the neural code and thus improve retinal implants for vision restoration.
An allosteric ligand stabilizes distinct conformations in the M2 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor
Authors: Xu Jun , Hübner Harald , Hu Yunfei , Niu Xiaogang , Gmeiner Peter , Jin Changwen , Kobilka Brian
Published: February 2021

Allosteric modulators provide therapeutic advantages over orthosteric drugs. A plethora of allosteric modulators have been identified for several GPCRs, particularly for muscarinic receptors (mAChRs)1,2. To study the molecular mechanisms governing allosteric modulation, we utilized a recently developed NMR system to investigate the conformational changes in the M2 muscarinic receptor (M2R) in response to the positive allosteric modulator (PAM) LY2119620. Our studies provide the first biophysical data showing that LY2119620 can substantially change the structure and dynamics of M2R in both the extracellular and G-protein coupling domains during the activation process. These NMR data suggest that LY2119620 may function by stabilizing distinct sets of conformations not observed in the presence of orthosteric agonists alone, which may account for the different signaling behaviors of the M2R when bound to LY2119620. Our studies provide new structural information for understanding the mechanism of GPCR allostery, and may facilitate the rational design of allosteric therapeutics targeting muscarinic receptors.
Influence of surface relaxation on the contrast of threading edge dislocations in synchrotron X-ray topographs under the condition of g · b = 0 and g · b × l = 0
Authors: Peng Hongyu , Ailihumaer Tuerxun , Fujie Fumihiro , Chen Zeyu , Raghothamachar Balaji , Dudley Michael
Published: February 2021

Residual contrast of threading edge dislocations is observed in synchrotron back-reflection X-ray topographs of 4H-SiC epitaxial wafers recorded using basal plane reflections where both g · b = 0 and g · b × l = 0. The ray-tracing simulation method based on the orientation contrast formation mechanism is applied to simulate images of such dislocations by applying surface relaxation effects. The simulated contrast features match the observed features on X-ray topographs, clearly demonstrating that the contrast is dominated by surface relaxation. Depth profiling indicates that the surface relaxation primarily takes place within a depth of 5 µm below the surface.
Perspectives for microbeam irradiation at the SYRMEP beamline
Authors: Schültke Elisabeth , Fiedler Stefan , Menk Ralf Hendrik , Jaekel Felix , Dreossi Diego , Casarin Katia , Tromba Giuliana , Bartzsch Stefan , Kriesen Stephan , Hildebrandt Guido , Arfelli Fulvia
Published: February 2021

It has been shown previously both in vitro and in vivo that microbeam irradiation (MBI) can control malignant tumour cells more effectively than the clinically established concepts of broad beam irradiation. With the aim to extend the international capacity for microbeam research, the first MBI experiment at the biomedical beamline SYRMEP of the Italian synchrotron facility ELETTRA has been conducted. Using a multislit collimator produced by the company TECOMET, arrays of quasi-parallel microbeams were successfully generated with a beam width of 50 µm and a centre-to-centre distance of 400 µm. Murine melanoma cell cultures were irradiated with a target dose of approximately 65 Gy at a mean photon energy of ∼30 keV with a dose rate of 70 Gy s−1 and a peak-to-valley dose of ∼123. This work demonstrated a melanoma cell reduction of approximately 80% after MBI. It is suggested that, while a high energy is essential to achieve high dose rates in order to deposit high treatment doses in a short time in a deep-seated target, for in vitro studies and for the treatment of superficial tumours a spectrum in the lower energy range might be equally suitable or even advantageous.
Digital transformation and value-based selling activities: seller and buyer perspectives
Authors: Alamäki Ari , Korpela Pentti
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to examine the digital transformation of business-to-business (B2B) sales and its effects on the management of value-based selling.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a qualitative interview research design. A total of two participant groups—one consisting of sales management professionals and the other consisting of buyers—were created to conduct abductive data analysis to gain a new understanding of B2B sales management.

Findings

As a result of the digital transformation of sales, companies are shifting B2B sales towards value-based selling using a more proactive, continuous process wherein digital value co-creation activities play a big role. Similarly, their buyers now expect more proactive communication about new value propositions, but social media channels are of little importance to most B2B buyers. The management of digital value co-creation activities should be addressed from the sales ecosystem perspective, where non-sellers tend to have a strong role in communicating new value propositions.

Research limitations/implications

There needs to be further research on digital value co-creation activities in the sales ecosystem, as value-based selling requires that selling organizations focus more on educational digital content marketing and engagement with non-sellers via both marketing and sales activities.

Practical implications

Companies rarely exploit experts and project personnel when implementing digital sales strategies; however, they often meet with customers personally and network with them. This requires a broader perspective on sales management.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to explore the management of value-based selling from both seller and buyer perspectives.
How do large corporations manage disruption? The perspective of manufacturing executives in Finland
Authors: Wallin Arto , Pihlajamaa Matti , Malmelin Nando
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The article explores what forms of disruption are prioritized by top executives of large manufacturing companies in Finland and what strategies they consider appropriate for the management of disruptive threats and opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical study was based on interviews with top executives in some of Finland's largest manufacturing companies.

Findings

Based on the data, we identify exploitative and explorative strategies in four dimensions that executives consider important in anticipating and responding to disruptions: internal development efforts, stance on new entrants, ecosystems and institutional change. Due to the presence of multiple potential disruptions, which often generate conflicting demands, executives have to consider them simultaneously and balance between them when making strategic decisions. They therefore do not necessarily have a specific response strategy, but their aim is to develop their companies' capabilities so that they are well-placed to face the future with confidence.

Originality/value

The findings indicate that the executives envision a disruption landscape that is more complex than typically described in the literature. In addition, it answers the call for a more systematic understanding of incumbents' response strategies by linking different disciplinary views with well-grounded empirical data.
Strength of auditing and reporting standards, ethical behavior of firms and sustainability: a cross-country investigation
Authors: Guidara Achraf , Ammari Anis El , Khlif Hichem
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the association between the strength of auditing and reporting standards (SARS, hereafter) and sustainability and investigates whether ethical behavior of firms moderates relationship between SARS and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of 500 country-year observations over the period of 2014–2017. Sustainability is collected from the Global Sustainable Competitiveness Index Reports for 2014, 2015, 2016 and 2017, while SARS and ethical behaviors are collected from the Global Competitiveness Reports for the same years.

Findings

The findings of this study suggest that the SARS is associated with sustainability. Similarly, ethical behavior of firms has a positive and significant effect on sustainability. When testing for the moderating effect of ethical behavior of firms on the association between SARS and sustainability, the results show that the positive association SARS becomes positive and more significant for countries where firms operate with high ethical behaviors, while the association becomes insignificant for settings where firms operate with low ethical behaviors.

Originality/value

The findings emphasize the role played by SARS and business ethics in improving sustainability. These results may have policy implications for governments aiming to improve sustainability by strengthening auditing and reporting standards and enforcing laws obliging firms to act ethically.
Darcy-Forchheimer porous medium effect on rotating hybrid nanofluid on a linear shrinking/stretching sheet
Authors: Ali Lund Liaquat , Omar Zurni , Khan Ilyas
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to find the multiple branches of the three-dimensional flow of Cu-Al2O3/water rotating hybrid nanofluid perfusing a porous medium over the stretching/shrinking surface. The extended model of Darcy due to Forchheimer and Brinkman has been considered to make the hybrid nanofluid model over the pores by considering the porosity and permeability effects.

Design/methodology/approach

The Tiwari and Das model with the thermophysical properties of spherical particles for efficient dynamic viscosity of the nanoparticle is used. The linear similarity transformations are applied to convert the partial differential equations into ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The system of governing ODEs is solved by using the three-stage Lobatto IIIa scheme in MATLAB for evolving parameters.

Findings

The system of governing ODEs produces dual branches. A unique stable branch is identified with help of stability analysis. The reduced heat transfer rate has been shown to increase with the reducedϕ2in both branches. Further, results revealed that the presence of multiple branches depends on the ranges of porosity, suction and stretching/shrinking parameters for the particular value of the rotating parameter.

Originality/value

Dual branches of the three-dimensional flow of Cu-Al2O3/water rotating hybrid nanofluid have been found. Therefore, stability analysis of the branches is also conducted to know which branch is appropriate for the practical applications. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is novel and there is no previously published work relevant to the present study.
Trends and strategies towards internationalisation of higher education in India
Authors: Khare Mona
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore what are the past trends in internationalisation of higher education (IoHE) in the country and how India's higher education (HE) internationalisation strategies are aligned to make India a regional education hub and a storehouse of global talent pool.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper relies heavily on secondary sources of information. Document analysis and policy reviews to analyse the internationalisation strategies as well as quantitative data analysis to map the trends have been used.

Findings

At present, internationalisation in India is lopsided and may become a drain on Indian economy if not balanced soon. India is now focussing to correct its adverse inbound–outbound international student (IS) mobility in order to become attractive for international HE community; India aims to strategically “prepare to host,” which is subject to institutional abilities to implement new schemes and programmes. International credibility of Indian HE rests largely on quality augmentation.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based purely on secondary sources. It would be interesting to augment further with primary-level interactions with both policymakers and practitioners.

Practical implications

It is a mix of academic and non-academic factors leading to improved quality of teaching, learning and competency-building in the higher education institutions (HEIs) rather than financial doles and incentives that should draw international academics to India in order to make the global traffic two way and financially viable for the country. IoHE to become viable and financially sustainable requires more comprehensive institutional efforts and mechanisms to bring in fee-paying ISs, research grants and multinational industry endowments.

Social implications

With more fee-paying outbound students and more non-fee-paying or highly subsidised inbound student growth, the situation is already critical in terms of financial implications. This can have long-term implications of societal divide arising out of “global academic impoverishment” of majority Indian students unless state-supported assistance to ensure equitable access to international opportunities is provided to the needy students in the country.

Originality/value

This article is an analytical update on India's HE internationalisation and can be a valuable resource for policymakers, analysts as well as researchers.
3D interactive garment parametric pattern-making and linkage editing based on constrained contour lines
Authors: Bao Chen , Miao Yongwei , Gu Bingfei , Liu Kaixuan , Liu Zhen
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an interactive 2D–3D garment parametric pattern-making and linkage editing scheme that integrates clothing design, simulation and interaction to design 3D garments and 2D patterns. The proposed scheme has the potential to satisfy the individual needs of fashion industry, such as precise fit evaluation of the garment, interactive style editing with ease allowance and constrained contour lines in fashion design.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first construct a parametric pattern-making model for flat pattern design corresponding to the body dimensions. Then, the designing 2D patterns are stitched on a virtual 3D mannequin by performing a virtual try-on. If the customer is unsatisfied after the virtual try-on, the adjustable parameters (appearance parameters and fit parameters) can be adjusted using the 2D–3D linkage editing with hierarchical constrained contour lines, and the fit evaluation tool interactively provides the feedback.

Findings

The authors observed that the usability and efficiency of the existing garment pattern-making method simplifies the garment pattern-making process. The authors utilize an interactive garment parametric flat pattern-making model to generate an individualized garment flat pattern that effectively adjust and realize the local editing of the garment pattern-making. The 2D–3D linkage editing is then employed, which alters the size and shape of garment pattern for a precise human model fit of the 3D garment using hierarchical constrained contour lines. Various instances have validated the effectiveness of the proposed scheme, which can increase the reusability of the existing garment styles and improve the efficiency of fashion design.

Research limitations/implications

First, the authors do not consider the garment pattern-making design of sophisticated styles. Second, the authors do not directly consider complex garment shapes such as wrinkles, folds, multi-layer models and fabric physical properties.

Originality/value

The authors propose a pattern adjustment scheme that uses the 3D virtual try-on technology to avoid repetitions of reality-based fit tests and garment sample making in the designing process of clothing products. The proposed scheme provides interactive selections of garment patterns and sizes and renders modification tools for 3D garment designing and 2D garment pattern-making. The authors present the 2D–3D interactive linkage editing scheme for a custom-fit garment pattern based on the hierarchical constraint contour lines. The spatial relationship among the human body, pattern pieces and 3D garment model is adequately expressed, and the final design result of the garment pattern is obtained by constraint solving. Meanwhile, the tightness tension of different parts of the 3D garment is analyzed, and the fit and comfort of the garment are quantitatively evaluated.
Supplier performance measurement system use, relationship trust, and performance improvement: a dyadic perspective
Authors: Maestrini Vieri , Patrucco Andrea Stefano , Luzzini Davide , Caniato Federico , Maccarrone Paolo
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Grounding on resource orchestration theory, this paper aims to study the relationship between the way buying companies use their supplier performance measurement systems and the performance improvements obtained from suppliers, with relationship trust identified as a mediator in the previous link.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors design a conceptual model and test it through structural equation modelling on a final sample of 147 buyer-supplier responses, collected by means of a dyadic survey.

Findings

Results suggest that the buyer company may achieve the most by balancing a diagnostic and interactive use of the measurement system, as they are both positively related to supplier performance improvement. Furthermore, relationship trust acts as a mediator in case of the interactive use, but not for the diagnostic. This type of use negatively affects relationship trust, due to its mechanistic use in the buyer-supplier relationship.

Originality/value

The authors’ results contribute to the current academic debate about supplier performance measurement system design and use by analyzing the impact of different supplier performance measurement system uses, and highlighting their relative impact on relationship trust and supplier performance improvement. From a methodological perspective, adopting a dyadic data collection process increases the robustness of the findings.
A shared leadership framework based on boundary spanners in megaprojects
Authors: Cao Tingting , Locatelli Giorgio , Smith Nigel , Zhang Lianying
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Megaprojects present an intricated pattern of leadership activities, which evolve over their planning and delivery and comprises several stakeholders. A framework is useful to navigate this complexity; it allows to identify and cluster the key elements. This paper aims to introduce a novel framework based on boundary spanners to describe the structural pattern of shared leadership in megaprojects.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review about boundary spanning and shared leadership is used to identify and cluster the key elements of shared leadership in megaprojects. The systematic literature review provides a rich theoretical background to develop the novel shared leadership framework based on boundary spanners.

Findings

There are three key dimensions characterizing shared leadership topology in megaprojects: stakeholders, boundary spanning leadership roles and project phases. The novel framework shows how project leadership dynamically transfers among different stakeholders, showing the importance of shared leadership as a leadership paradigm in megaprojects.

Research limitations/implications

The novel framework epitomizes shared leadership in megaprojects by exploring its antecedents with social network metrics. This paper stresses that shared leadership is the envisaged form of leadership in megaprojects. By modeling complex project leadership in a simple, yet effective way, the framework fosters critical thinking for future research. The modeling introduced by this framework would also benefit practitioners in charge of megaprojects.

Originality/value

The paper moves the project leadership research to the network-level by taking boundary spanners as shared leadership roles in megaprojects. It shows how shared leadership is a valuable management tool for planning and delivery megaprojects.
Quantifying heterogeneous individual perceptions in project management research
Authors: Hackman David C.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This article introduces the best-worst scaling object case, a quantitative method of producing individual level models of heterogeneous perceptions, for use in behavioural decision making research in projects. Heterogeneous individual perceptions refer to observed or unobserved differences between individual perceptions that impact the outcome being studied. Individual level models of perceptions are important to account for the impact of heterogeneous perceptions on measurement tasks, so they do not become an unobserved source of variance that potentially biases research inferences.

Design/methodology/approach

An overview of individual heterogeneity is provided highlighting the requirement for individual level models in quantitative perception measurements. A literature review is then conducted of the quantitative methods and tasks used to measure perceptions in behavioural decision making research in projects and their potential to produce individual level models.

Findings

The existing quantitative methods cannot produce the necessary individual level models primarily due to the inability to address individual level scale effects, responses styles and biases. Therefore, individual heterogeneity in perceptions can become an unobserved source of variance that potentially biases research inferences.

Practical implications

A method new to project management research, the best-worst scaling object case, is proposed to produce individual level models of heterogeneous perceptions. Guidance on how to implement this method at the individual level is provided along with a discussion of possible future behavioural decision making research in projects.

Originality/value

This article identifies a largely unacknowledged measurement limitation of quantitative behavioural decision making research in projects and provides a practical solution: implementing the best-worst scaling object case at the individual level.
Early identification of distressed capital projects: a longitudinal approach
Authors: Chen Hong Long
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Previous studies investigate factors affecting project outcomes. Yet, it has not been fully explored regarding which factors differentiate healthy projects from distressed projects in the early stage of the project delivery process. The purpose of this study is to investigate the links between project-planning factors and project outcomes in the closing phase.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a longitudinal survey method to examine the predictability of project-planning factors. Subsequently, the authos employ confirmatory factor analysis and hierarchical logit regression to develop project-distress classification models.

Findings

Analysis of 90 capital projects shows that performance variation in the project planning phase explains a substantial portion of project distress at completion. Subsequent univariate logit analysis shows that S5 (quality of scope control system) and Tn1 (new practices and technologies) variables have the strongest predictive abilities. Hierarchical logit analysis further shows that a combination of 15 metrics in the project-distress measurement model produces strong and stable predictive power.

Research limitations/implications

This study assesses how well performance variation in the project-planning phase predicts project distress before construction phase. It does not assume the reported results apply to all types of projects. Nonetheless, future studies could generalize our findings by incorporating more types of projects.

Originality/value

This study takes a systematic approach, combining longitudinal survey, measurement theory and hierarchical logit analysis to identify distressed projects early, offering managers an opportunity to take early corrective actions. Practitioners may use this approach to investigate other types of projects and further refine the project-distress classification model into a project-specific model, thereby reflecting projects' unique characteristics.
Comparative analysis of service quality of Big Bazaar and Spencer's: a fuzzy approach
Authors: Sama Hanumantha Rao , Gupta Sanjay , Mathew Manoj , Gupta Swati
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The main objective of this study is to compare the service quality of two retail chains of hypermarkets, namely, Big Bazaar and Spencer's, using the trapezoidal fuzzy approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Customers from Big Bazaar and Spencer's of Andhra Pradesh, India, have been surveyed through a well-designed questionnaire. The study attempts to compare the service quality of two major retail giants (Spencer's and Big Bazaar) in Andhra Pradesh by using the trapezoidal fuzzy approach to prioritize the attributes of service quality of retail outlets.

Findings

The result of the study indicates that the expectations of Big Bazar customers are higher as compared to Spencer's. Further, the study reveals – that Spencer's need to improve in the dimension of tangibility while Big Bazar needs to focus more on responsiveness.

Research limitations/implications

As the data taken for the study are primary in nature, chances of bias may arise on the part of respondents, which may affect the validity of results. Further, the study is confined to two retail stores in Andhra Pradesh, India only, which may not reflect the broader picture.

Practical implications

Retailers may provide more importance to two major service quality dimensions, i.e. tangibility and responsiveness while preparing for their service and marketing strategies.

Originality/value

As the study relates to the comparative analysis of service quality of Big Bazar and Spencer's, the findings will be of additional value to these specific retailers. Therefore, it is expected that this study will fill the gap in the literature by prioritizing the expectations and perceptions of customers of Big Bazar and Spencer's.
Primary school enrolment rate, completion rate and gender balancing in Nigeria; the financial inclusion perspective
Authors: Offiong Amenawo Ikpa , Bassey Riman Hodo , James Godwin Bassey , Ogar Anthony , Okon Emmanuel Ekpenyong , Mboto Helen Walter
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The bedrock of growth in education is at the primary/basic education level, hence there is need to ensure that the populace not only enrolls but complete their education as well as maintain gender balancing. Financial inclusion is essential in achieving financial development which if properly tailored should result in economic growth and development. Education is an important development parameter, therefore, the purpose of this study is to assess if financial inclusiveness enhances primary school enrolment, completion and gender balancing.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to ascertain if financial inclusion (financial penetration, access and usage) enhances primary school education (primary school enrolment and completion) and gender balancing (primary school female-to-male ratio), the study employed the vector error correction modeling (VECM) to capture both short- and long-run dynamics of cointegration equations and also, ascertain how the long-run deviations are deemed corrected in the short run.

Findings

The findings of financial inclusion showed a significant positive effect on primary school enrollment but regarding primary school completion rate and female-to-male ratio, the responses to financial inclusion measures showed a completely negative effect. From the foregoing, it is not just sufficient to enroll school children but that they complete their basic primary education, and equally ensure that the males are not favored over the females so as to achieve gender balance literacy in the country.

Originality/value

The study focuses on how financial inclusion engenders admission, graduation and gender balancing in primary school education as the bedrock to formal education in Nigeria.
Life satisfaction amongst working parents: examining the case of mothers and fathers in Ireland
Authors: Walsh Edel , Murphy Aileen
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of having minor children on parents' life satisfaction. Given the demands on working parents in terms of their time and financial resources, the authors suspect a complex interaction between employment and parenthood and explore the effect of parenthood on life satisfaction of mothers and fathers, working parents and those with children of various ages.

Design/methodology/approach

Data from three rounds of the European Social Survey (R3 2006/07, R5 2010/11 and R8 2016/17) are used to account for Ireland's changing economic landscape. Three ordered probit models are estimated examining parents, and mothers and fathers separately.

Findings

The findings indicate that any life satisfaction benefits derived from having children appear to be eroded for working parents. There is a negative association between life satisfaction for working mothers with child(ren) aged between 5 and 12 years. Furthermore, when both parents are working, mothers' life satisfaction is also significantly reduced.

Practical implications

Family policies and supports can shape the effects of parenthood on individual wellbeing and decisions regarding parenthood. Such policies need to be purposeful for working parents of school going children and consistent with economic strategy and labour market goals.

Originality/value

Much of the existing economic research on individual wellbeing and parenthood are focused on the fertility decision rather than examining the factors affecting the life satisfaction of different cohorts of parents thus leading to more targeted and informed policies. Contemporary weighting methodology is employed.
Protected areas and environmental conservation in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa: on HEIs, livelihoods and sustainable development
Authors: Moyo Inocent , Cele Hlengiwe Marvelous Sweetness
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The paper aims to advocate for innovative approaches in terms of the involvement of higher education institutions (HEIs) in the conservation of the environment, which fully considers and includes the developmental needs of indigenous communities while at the same time protecting the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a qualitative study of indigenous communities and protected area (PA) authorities in Okhahlamba-Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, this paper explores the potential of the engagement of HEIs in capacitating indigenous communities to unleash their development potential towards reducing poverty and, thus accelerating the implementation of sustainable development goal one (SDG 1).

Findings

The paper shows that the enforcement of stringently protectionist policies in environmental conservation in PAs does very little to address issues of poverty because it leads to the marginalisation of indigenous communities and thereby their exclusion from using resources, which should benefit them. This undermines sustainable development, particularly the attainment of SDGs such as Goal 1, which targets ending poverty in all its forms everywhere.

Originality/value

Using the case of environmental management and governance of a PA in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, this paper highlights the fact that the attainment of SDG 1 can start at a micro-level and HEIs have a role to play in terms of collaborating with and understanding the needs of the rural communities so that research and innovation are geared towards meeting such needs. In this way, the paper advances the case of how the HEI-rural community-SDG 1 nexus can be established.
Others' fortune in online vs offline settings: how envy affects people's intention to share information
Authors: Suárez Vázquez Ana , Chica Serrano Manuel
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to fill a gap in the existing literature by answering the following question: is the effect of envy on people's intention to share information the same in offline settings and on online social networks?

Design/methodology/approach

Two studies demonstrate (1) how envy that results from upward social comparisons affects people's intention to share information and (2) the difference between online and offline settings.

Findings

The likelihood of sharing information susceptible of triggering envy is lower in online social networks than in an offline scenario.

Research limitations/implications

In digital environments, feelings of envy depend on the number of social comparisons that the individual is exposed to.

Practical implications

This research recommends (1) incorporating tools that allow online social network users to feel part of their network's successes, (2) promoting offline diffusion of information and (3) encouraging people to play an active role when using online social networks.

Social implications

Benefits can be derived from offering tools that permit receivers to take advantage of the selective self-presentation of other users. Such tools could have positive consequences for the welfare of online social network users.

Originality/value

To date, the literature has paid no attention to envy as an engine of information sharing. This aspect is especially relevant when discussing platforms whose main goal is precisely information sharing and that offer fertile ground for upward social comparisons.
Analysis of challenges for blockchain adoption within the Indian public sector: an interpretive structural modelling approach
Authors: Rana Nripendra P. , Dwivedi Yogesh K. , Hughes D. Laurie
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Blockchain is one of the most significant emerging technologies that is set to transform many aspects of industry and society. However, it has several major technical, social, legal, environmental and ethical complexities that offer significant challenges for mainstream use within the public sector. The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has compelled many public sector employees to work remotely, highlighting a number of challenges to blockchain adoption within the Indian context signifying the pertinence of this research topic in the post-pandemic era. This study offers insight to researchers and policymakers alike on how such challenges are interdependent within this important subject.

Design/methodology/approach

We explored 16 unique sets of challenges selected from the literature and gathered data from nine experts from government settings, healthcare and education sectors and academia who have significant knowledge and experience of blockchain implementation and use in their respective organisations. The implementation of Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) and Matriced' Impacts Croise's Multiplication Appliquée a UN Classement (MICMAC) provided a precise set of driving, linkage and dependent challenges that were used to formulate the framework.

Findings

The developed ISM framework is split into six different levels. The results suggest that the bottom level consists of challenges such as “Lack of standards (C9)” and “Lack of validation (C10)” form the foundation of the hierarchical structure of blockchain adoption. However, the topmost level consists of a highly dependent challenge termed “adoption of blockchain in the public sector (C16)”. The research filters the selected set of five challenges to develop a parsimonious model and formulated six propositions to examine the impact of “lack of standard (C9)”, “lack of validation (C10)” on “security issues (C3)” and “privacy concerns (C2)”, which eventually determine individuals' “reluctance to use blockchain technology (C12)”.

Originality/value

This research fills a key gap in exiting research by exploring the key challenges in blockchain adoption within the public sector by developing a valuable framework to model this important topic. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first paper to address these challenges and develop a parsimonious model for challenges of blockchain adoption in the public sector settings.
Institutionalizing value-based healthcare in a service system: a policy and document analysis over three decades
Authors: Kokshagina Olga , Keränen Joona
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to explore the institutionalization of value-based healthcare (VBHC) in the public healthcare system in the state of Victoria, Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical part of this paper is based on a content analysis of 34 policy and industry-commissioned reports that have guided the development of health-care strategy in Victoria from 1988 to 2020.

Findings

This study sheds light on how VBHC in Victoria has been institutionalized over time, through three key phases (centralization, transitioning and digitalization), how the conceptualization of best value has changed in each phase and the implications each phase has presented for other actors in the health-care system.

Practical implications

This study highlights the key opportunities and challenges for organizational actors that emerge when a health-care system transitions toward VBHC, and derives implications for vendors, health-care procurement, policymakers and governmental agencies.

Originality/value

This study develops a longitudinal analysis that describes the evolution and institutionalization of a VBHC approach in a complex societal system over three decades and highlights the key implications for other organizational stakeholders.
Low carbon of lime plaster repair: life cycle assessment approach in achieving sustainable maintenance management for heritage buildings
Authors: Kayan Brit Anak , Jitilon Deanne Seanuau Kely , Azaman Mohammad Nazmi Mohd
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Low carbon repair epitomises sustainable maintenance management for heritage buildings. However, there is little recognition of this aspect, coupled with impractical assessment of repair impact strategies. This paper aims to present a decision-making process based on life cycle assessment (LCA) approach of lime plaster repair options for heritage buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

Calculation procedures of LCA were carried out to enable sustainable maintenance management appraisal for heritage buildings upon embodied carbon expenditure expended from lime plaster repair during the maintenance phase.

Findings

Calculation procedures could be understood as a carbon LCA of lime plaster repair and recognised in reducing CO2 emissions. This underpins low carbon of lime plaster repair in achieving sustainable maintenance management of heritage buildings.

Practical implications

It must be emphasised that the LCA approach is not limited to heritage buildings and can be applied to any repair types, materials used and building forms. This supports environmentally focused economies and promotes sustainable maintenance management solutions.

Social implications

The LCA approach highlights the efficiency of repair impact strategies through evaluation of low carbon repairs options.

Originality/value

The LCA approach results show that low carbon repair, contextualised within maintenance management, relays the “true” embodied carbon expenditure and stimulates sustainable development of heritage buildings.
Teacher corps stability: articulating the social capital enabled when teachers stay
Authors: Ford Timothy G. , Forsyth Patrick B.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The evidence is strong that the instability of teacher rosters in urban school settings has negative consequences for student learning, but our concern is with the opposite phenomenon: What is the value added to the organization when a school's teaching roster is stable over time? Our theory of teacher corps stability hinges on the claim that the stability of a teacher corps over time is a sine qua non that, under certain conditions, permits formation of the social capital needed to catalyze school effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

We test this claim using longitudinal data from 72 schools in a large, urban southwestern US school district. We first identified a subset of 47 schools with either chronic teacher turnover (high, stable turnover) or a stable teacher roster (low, stable turnover) via school-level HLM growth modeling techniques. These classifications were then used as a covariate in a series of HLM growth models investigating its relationship to growth in structural, relational and cognitive social capital over time.

Findings

Our findings sustain a claim of the importance of teacher corps stability. In our sample of urban schools, we found robust increases in the relational and cognitive dimensions of social capital over time in those schools with stable rosters. Furthermore, schools with chronic turnover were declining significantly in relational social capital, but no appreciable growth in structural social capital was found in either stable roster or chronic teacher turnover schools.

Practical implications

Given the nature of teacher corps stability and its relationship to key organizational outcomes, school leaders play a central role in realizing teacher corps stability within their school. A certain amount of this effort must necessarily be focused on retaining a stable corps of quality, happy, committed teachers. However, building social capital concerns the active engagement of all actors; thus, school leaders need to think beyond retention to how the teachers that remain can play larger leadership roles in this process.

Originality/value

Few studies have examined the positive benefits that can emerge in schools where the majority of teachers remain year after year. Collectively, the study findings suggest that teacher corps stability can provide fertile conditions for the development of social capital that has the potential to enhance school effectiveness and that its staff can leverage for school improvement.