bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biogeography of theropod dinosaurs during the Late Cretaceous: evidence from central South America
Authors: Delcourt Rafael , Brilhante Natan S , Pires-Domingues Ricardo A , Hendrickx Christophe , Grillo Orlando N , Augusta Bruno G , Maciel Bárbara S , Ghilardi Aline M , Ricardi-Branco Fresia
Published: January 2024

In central South America, theropod remains are relatively scarce in comparison to the southern part of the continent, with shed teeth being the primary fossils found in this region. We examined 179 isolated teeth from the Bauru Basin, Brazil, using linear discriminant analysis (LDA; N = 178) and phylogenetic analysis (N = 174). The LDA used eight measurements, and the phylogenetic analysis used seven morphotypes. Although the results of the LDA suggest the presence of various South American theropod clades, such as Carcharodontosauridae, Noasauridae, and Spinosauridae, the phylogenetic analysis using a constrained dentition-based matrix classified the morphotypes as Abelisauridae (morphotypes I–IV, VI, and VII) and Therizinosauria (morphotype V). Given the considerable number of homoplastic characters and missing data, the phylogenetic analyses could not precisely determine the taxonomy of morphotypes V, VI, and VII in the unconstrained dataset. Morphological comparisons, nevertheless, strongly suggest that all morphotypes should be classified as abelisaurid theropods. We propose that the palaeogeographical distribution of Abelisauridae in South America was influenced by climatic conditions. These apex carnivores are likely to have adapted well to increased climate changes that led to semi-arid conditions. Our research sheds light on the evolutionary and ecological aspects of theropod dinosaurs in this region, contributing to a better understanding of the ancient ecosystems of central South America.
Disease-induced changes in the rhizosphere microbiome reduced root disease
Authors: Yin Chuntao
Published: January 2024

Rhizosphere microbiota, referred to as the second genome of plants, are crucial to plant health. Increasing evidence reveals that plants can change their rhizosphere microbiome and promote microbial activity to reduce plant disease. However, how plant and phytopathogens factor in combination to structure the rhizosphere microbiome and govern microbial selection for adaptation to disease stress remains incompletely understood. In this study, rhizosphere microbiota from successive wheat plantings under the pressure of the soilborne pathogen Rhizoctonia solani AG8 were characterized. Amplicon sequence analyses revealed that bacterial and fungal communities clustered by planting cycles. The addition of AG8 enhanced the separation of the rhizosphere microbiota. The alpha diversity of bacteria and fungi significantly decreased over planting cycles. Compared with rhizosphere bacterial communities, AG8 was a major driver structuring fungal communities. Pathogen-infected monocultures enriched a group of bacterial genera with potential antagonistic activities or abilities for plant growth promotion or nitrogen fixation. Further, eleven bacterial species exhibited antagonistic activities toward Rhizoctonia spp., and four of them displayed broad antagonism against multiple soilborne fungal pathogens. These findings support the potential to improve plant health through manipulating rhizosphere microbiota.
Development, Psychometric Testing, and Reference Values of the Infant Eating Assessment Tool (InfantEAT)
Authors: Pados Britt F. , Hill Rebecca R.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Problematic feeding is common in infancy, particularly in infants with a history of premature birth or medical complexity. A concise, valid, and reliable measure of feeding that can be used across feeding methods is needed for clinical practice and research.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to create an assessment tool to evaluate symptoms of problematic feeding in infants that can be used across all feeding methods (breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, and mixed feeding), then test its psychometric properties and establish reference values.

Methods:

Item response theory (IRT) was used to identify the most important items on the Neonatal Eating Assessment Tool (NeoEAT) related to symptoms of problematic feeding in infants (N = 1054) to create the Infant Eating Assessment Tool (InfantEAT). Reliability of the InfantEAT was tested using Cronbach's α and interitem correlations. Reference values of the InfantEAT were determined from a sample of healthy, full-term infants (n = 561). Percent agreement in identifying problematic feeding between the NeoEAT and the InfantEAT was calculated.

Results:

The InfantEAT is comprised of 31 items in 9 subscales. The InfantEAT has evidence of acceptable reliability (α = 0.88). There was 74% agreement between the NeoEAT and the InfantEAT, with the InfantEAT being more sensitive to identifying problematic feeding. References values are presented for infants 0 to 2, 2 to 4, 4 to 6, and 6 to 7 months.

Implications Practice and Research:

The InfantEAT is a reliable and sensitive tool to evaluate symptoms of problematic feeding across feeding methods for infants younger than 7 months in both practice and research.
Tendon transfer in spastic cerebral palsy upper limb
Authors: Gerami Hadi , Shahcheraghi G. Hossain , Javid Mahzad
Published: January 2024

Cerebral palsy (CP) in upper limb produces functional, aesthetic and hygienic issues, and is not always amenable to surgical procedures. We are reporting a single-center, long follow-up experience with tendon transfer in wrist and forearm CP. The CP cases who had undergone tendon transfer in hand, wrist and forearm in a 14-year period were evaluated for change in motion, function and cosmetic appearance and also assessed by Manual Ability Classification System (MACS), and Dash (Disability of Arm, Shoulder, Hand) scores. Forty-two spastic CP patients with a mean age of 19.81 (10–34 years, SD: 5.36) years with a mean follow-up of 5.5 (2–14) years, entered the study. 24 cases were GMFCS I or II and 18 were III or IV. Supination beyond neutral was seen in 48.5%, and improvement in MACS scores in all the cases. Improved ‘grasp’ and ‘release’ and keyboard use was seen in 50%, 71% and 87% respectively. The satisfaction from appearance and improved function of 83–96% correlated positively with GMFSC, MACS and DASH scores. Noticeable improvement in personal hygienic care was seen in only 52% of cases. Tendon transfer in well-selected spastic upper extremity CP cases results in long-time improved function, and limb appearance – correlating with initial GMFCS and MACS scores.
Systematic review of paediatric pulseless pink humerus supracondylar fractures
Authors: Goh Wei Chong Keith , Ong Eric J.Y. , Lee Nicole Kim Luan , Mahadev Arjandas , Wong Kenneth P.L.
Published: January 2024

The supracondylar humeral fracture (SCHF) is the most common fracture seen in children, forming up to 70% of all pediatric elbow fractures. The decision to surgically explore the brachial artery in a well-perfused, pulseless arm remains a controversial one among vascular and orthopedic surgeons and is something we seek to explore in this article. We reviewed the literature from electronic databases such as PubMed and Embase for studies focusing on the management of the pink pulseless hand (PPH) following SCHF. We gathered a total of 23 articles to be analyzed in this review. We found 336 PPH postreduction and evaluated the management as well as the follow-up and complications of the PPH involved. Most recent articles have cited the close observation strategy as the most reliable strategy. It is clear that the management of a SCHF requires immediate reduction and fixation. In the management of a postoperatively pulseless pink humerus, we do agree with the latest conclusion of Delionitis et al. who advocate the traditional dogma of watchful waiting in the case of a PPH postreduction and fixation as long as no signs of vascular deterioration appear. However, the outcome of this study also advocates for the monitoring of up to 24–48 h postreduction and the use of noninvasive tools such as ultrasound Doppler, Color flow duplex Ultrasound and pulse oximetry to monitor perfusion as they all have had good outcomes in the articles cited in this review. Still, in the event of vascular deterioration or development of complications of the hand, immediate vascular exploration is still indicated.
Age-Related Orthostatic Hypotension: A Comprehensive Analysis of Prevalence, Mechanisms, and Management in the Geriatric Population
Authors: Srinivas Varsha , Choubey Udit , Kapparath Sreerag , Shaik Tanveer , Singh Bhupinder , Mahmood Ramsha , Garg Nikita , Aggarwal Priyanka , Jain Rohit
Published: January 2024

Geriatric patients frequently encounter orthostatic hypotension (OH), a multifaceted condition characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure upon assuming an upright position. As the elderly population is particularly susceptible to OH, our review endeavors to comprehensively explore the complex nature of this condition and various factors contributing to its development. We investigate the impact of comorbidities, polypharmacy, age-related physiological changes, and autonomic dysfunction in the pathogenesis of OH. Geriatric patients with OH are faced with an elevated risk of falls, syncope, a decline in their overall quality of life, and hence increased mortality. These implications require careful consideration, necessitating a thorough examination of therapeutic strategies. We evaluate various pharmaceutical and nonpharmacological therapies, delving into the effectiveness and safety of each approach in managing OH within geriatric populations. We explore the role of pharmacotherapy in alleviating symptoms and mitigating OH-related complications, as well as the potential benefits of volume expansion techniques to augment blood volume and stabilize blood pressure. We place particular emphasis on the significance of lifestyle changes and nonpharmacological interventions in enhancing OH management among the elderly. These interventions encompass dietary modifications, regular physical activity, and postural training, all tailored to the unique needs of the individual patient. To optimize outcomes and ensure patient safety, we underscore the importance of individualized treatment plans that take into account the geriatric patient’s overall health status, existing comorbidities, and potential interactions with other medications. This review aims to improve clinical practice and patient outcomes by advocating for early detection, properly tailored management, and targeted interventions to address OH in the elderly population. By raising awareness of OH’s prevalence and complexities among healthcare professionals, we hope to foster a comprehensive understanding of OH and contribute to the overall wellness and quality of life of this vulnerable demographic.
Safe Augmentation Mastopexy: Review of 500 Consecutive Cases Using a Vertical Approach and Muscular Sling
Authors: Hubaide Marcus , Ono Marcelo T. , Karner Bruno M. , Martins Luciano V. , Pires Jefferson A.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Augmentation mastopexy remains a challenging surgery and has been frequently associated with suboptimal outcomes and remarkable reoperation rates, and one of the greatest challenges in mastopexy surgery is areolar lift, especially when implants are simultaneously used. Through the authors’ experience, this study is aimed to show a modification of the vertical approach with greater safety of the areolar pedicle.

Methods:

The study included all patients who underwent augmentation mastopexy surgery performed by the authors between 2019 and 2022, whether primary or nonprimary, and performed a retrospective chart review of all patients who underwent this procedure.

Results:

The length of the areolar lift ranged from 0 cm to 14 cm. Among the 17.4% of nonprimary mastopexies, the longest areolar lift was 11 cm. No cases of nipple–areola complex ischemia/necrosis were observed. With this technique, there were 6.2% complications (n = 31), none of which were considered serious.

Conclusions:

This surgical sequence is a safe option for areolar lift in augmentation mastopexy. The vertical approach also has the advantage of producing considerably shorter horizontal scars. It is also reproducible, keeping the implant stable, which results in consistent long-term results.
Infantile Hemangioma of the Breast: Long-Term Assessment of Outcomes
Authors: Labow Brian I. , Alshamekh Shomoukh A. , Carlberg Valerie M. , Zacur Jennifer L. , Uihlein Lily C. , Mulliken John B. , Liang Marilyn G.
Published: January 2024

Background:

The literature is meager regarding the natural history and outcomes of infantile hemangiomas (IHs) in the breast. Treatment in childhood may be considered due to psychosocial and physical concerns with breast development. Early surgical intervention may cause iatrogenic breast asymmetry and possibly impair lactation later in life. This study characterizes the clinical presentation, management, and long-term outcomes of IHs arising in the breast.

Methods:

Female patients aged 11 years or older at presentation were included in a retrospective review of the Vascular Anomalies Center database for patients with IHs of the breast seen at our institution between 1980 and 2020. Breast development was ascertained by a structured telephone interview, physical examination, or photographs.

Results:

A total of 10 patients met criteria for inclusion in this study. The median age at enrollment was 14 years (11–36 years). Breast asymmetry was noted in 60% of patients (n = 6). Of the four patients who underwent subtotal excision of breast IH, three developed ipsilateral breast hypoplasia. Breast asymmetry was also noted in three of five patients who did not receive medical treatment: two with hypoplasia and one with hyperplasia. No asymmetry was noted in the single patient who received corticosteroid.

Conclusions:

IHs involving the nipple–areola complex can be associated with breast asymmetry. Hypoplasia was noted in patients not treated with corticosteroid or resection in childhood. These findings suggest that systemic treatment should be considered. Longitudinal follow-up on patients treated with propranolol will elucidate its possible benefits in minimizing breast asymmetry.
National Estimates of Home Care Workers Nonfatal Emergency Department–Treated Injuries, United States 2015–2020
Authors: Derk Susan J. , Hendricks Kitty J. , Hartley Dan
Published: January 2024

Objective

Home care workers (HCWs) are a critical resource contributing to the well-being of others. Presented are data on HCWs nonfatal emergency department (ED)–treated injuries.

Methods

Nonfatal injuries among HCWs were extracted from the NEISS-Work data between 2015 and 2020.

Results

Review of NEISS-Work data indicated 117,000 HCWs with nonfatal ED-treated injuries; female HCWs accounted for 93%. Overexertion and bodily reactions accounted for 52% of the injuries. Violence and other injuries by persons or animals accounted for 15% and falls, slips, and trips also accounted for 15% of the HCWs ED-treated injuries.

Conclusions

The growing demand for home care services is increasing the number of workers at risk for injury. Future analyses should prioritize injury events among HCWs to gain a better understanding of the events contributing to injuries among HCWs.
A recently collected Xanthomonas translucens isolate encodes TAL effectors distinct from older, less virulent isolates
Authors: Gutierrez-Castillo Diego E. , Barrett Emma , Roberts Robyn
Published: January 2024

Xanthomonas translucens, the causal agent of bacterial leaf streak disease (BLS) in cereals, is a re-emerging pathogen that is becoming increasingly destructive across the world. While BLS has caused yield losses in the past, there is anecdotal evidence that newer isolates may be more virulent. We observed that two

X. translucens

isolates collected from two sites in Colorado, USA, are more aggressive on current wheat and barley varieties compared to older isolates, and we hypothesize that genetic changes between recent and older isolates contribute to the differences in isolate aggressiveness. To test this, we phenotyped and genetically characterized two

X. translucens

isolates collected from Colorado in 2018, which we designated CO236 (from barley) and CO237 (from wheat). Using pathovar-specific phenotyping and PCR primers, we determined that CO236 belongs to pathovar translucens (Xtt) and CO237 belongs to pathovar undulosa (Xtu). We sequenced the full genomes of the isolates using Oxford Nanopore long-read sequencing, and compared their whole genomes against published

X. translucens

genomes. This analysis confirmed our pathovar designations for Xtt CO236 and Xtu CO237, and showed that, at the whole-genome level, there were no obvious genomic structural changes between Xtt CO236 and Xtu CO237 and other respective published pathovar genomes. Focusing on pathovar undulosa (Xtu CO237), we then compared putative type III effectors among all available Xtu isolate genomes and found that they were highly conserved. However, there were striking differences in the presence and sequence of various transcription activator-like effectors between Xtu CO237 and published undulosa genomes, which correlate with isolate virulence. Here, we explore the potential implications of the differences in these virulence factors, and provide possible explanations for the increased virulence of recently emerged isolates.
Visual familiarity learning at multiple timescales in the primate inferotemporal cortex
Authors: Mohan Krithika , Pereira-Obilinovic Ulises , Srednyak Stanislav , Amit Yali , Brunel Nicolas , Freedman David
Published: January 2024

Humans and other primates can rapidly detect familiar objects and distinguish them from never-before-seen novel objects. We have an astonishing capacity to remember the details of visual scenes even after a single, fleeting experience. This ability is thought to rely in part on experience-dependent changes in the primate inferotemporal cortex (IT). Single neurons in IT encode visual familiarity by discriminating between novel and familiar stimuli, with stronger neural activity on average for novel images. However, key open questions are to understand how neural encoding in IT changes as images progress from novel to highly familiar, and what learning rules and computations can account for learning-dependent changes in IT activity. Here, we investigate the timescales over which novel stimuli become familiar by recording in IT as initially novel images become increasingly familiar both within and across days. We identified salient and persistent memory-related signals in IT that spanned multiple timescales of minutes, hours, and days. Average neural activity progressively decreased with familiarity as firing rates were strongest for novel, weaker for intermediately familiar, and weakest for highly familiar images. Neural signatures of familiarity learning were slow to develop as response reductions to initially-novel images emerged gradually over multiple days (or hundreds of views) of visual experience. In addition to slow changes that emerged across sessions, neural responses to novel images showed rapid decreases with familiarity within single sessions. To gain insight into the mechanisms underlying changes of visual responses with familiarity, we use computational modeling to investigate which plasticity rules are consistent with these changes. Learning rules inferred from the neural data revealed a strong diversity with many neurons following a ‘negative’ plasticity rule as they exhibited synaptic depression over the course of learning across multiple days. A recurrent network model with two plasticity time constants – a slow time constant for long timescales and a fast time constant for short timescales – captured key dynamic features accompanying the transition from novel to familiar, including a gradual decrease in firing rates over multiple sessions, and a rapid decrease in firing rates within single sessions. Our findings suggest that distinct and complementary plasticity rules operating at different timescales may underlie the inferotemporal code for visual familiarity.
Refinement of the uranium dispersion corrections from anomalous diffraction
Authors: Leinders Gregory , Grendal Ola Gjonnes , Arts Ine , Bes René , Prozheev Igor , Orlat Simon , Fitch Andrew , Kvashnina Kristina , Verwerft Marc
Published: January 2024

The evolution of the uranium chemical state in uranium compounds, principally in the oxides, is of concern in the context of nuclear fuel degradation under storage and repository conditions, and in accident scenarios. The U–O system shows complicated phase relations between single-valence uranium dioxide (UO2) and different mixed-valence compounds (e.g. U4O9, U3O7 and U3O8). To try resolving the electronic structure associated with unique atomic positions, a combined application of diffraction and spectroscopic techniques, such as diffraction anomalous fine structure (DAFS), can be considered. Reported here is the application of two newly developed routines for assessing a DAFS data set, with the aim of refining the uranium X-ray dispersion corrections. High-resolution anomalous diffraction data were acquired from polycrystalline powder samples of UO2 (containing tetravalent uranium) and potassium uranate (KUO3, containing pentavalent uranium) using synchrotron radiation in the vicinity of the U L
3 edge (17.17 keV). Both routines are based on an iterative refinement of the dispersion corrections, but they differ in either using the intensity of a selection of reflections or doing a full-pattern (Rietveld method) refinement. The uranium dispersion corrections obtained using either method are in excellent agreement with each other, and they show in great detail the chemical shifts and differences in fine structure expected for tetravalent and pentavalent uranium. This approach may open new possibilities for the assessment of other, more complicated, materials such as mixed-valence compounds. Additionally, the DAFS methodology can offer a significant resource optimization because each data set contains both structural (diffraction) and chemical (spectroscopy) information, which can avoid the requirement to use multiple experimental stations at synchrotron sources.
Characteristics of notational expression by decomposition of Steven Holl’s sketches
Authors: Mori Yurika , Dewancker Bart
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study is about the expression of sketches in Steven Holl's architectural works. Holl shares his architectural ideas as watercolors with his staff, and he has established an original notational expression for the design process. This study investigates the elements of sketches as a notation method and examines the timeline changes.

Design/methodology/approach

Classification will be conducted using KJ method (Kawakita Jiro method), a method for organizing information developed by the Japanese cultural anthropologist Kawakita Jiro. Using the KJ method, this study compiled a list as a table about the pictures, letters, etc. in the sketches and grouped them together in the same attributes. The attributes that were grouped together were identified as elements of the sketches.

Findings

As a result, in the early 1970s, Holl used only line drawings for sketches, but since the 1980s, watercolor sketches have been increasingly used. Extracting the elements of sketches, it can divide them into drawing and describing expressions and classify them into three main types of pictorial expressions: Overview, Plan and Concept.

Originality/value

This study has shown that the closer the sketches were to the present, the more they combined elements of a more complex sketch with letters and symbols as well as pictorial expressions. This is the first study to investigate about sketch representations established as notations by Steven Holl. This study identified the elements that make the architectural concept visible through sketches.
Complements or substitutes? Domestic and international network search and SME ambidexterity
Authors: Wright Joanne , Fiedler Antje , Fath Benjamin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) use networks to overcome knowledge deficiencies in pursuing innovation. However, balancing the cost and risk of growing networks, especially internationally, with potential gains in knowledge remains a critical challenge. Searching for innovation knowledge in international and domestic networks can be complementary when learning is compressed or as competing when the SMEs capacity to use the new knowledge is exceeded. This paper aims to investigate whether knowledge searches in domestic and international networks are complementary or conflicting in pursuit of innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on firm-level data set comprising 426 SMEs located in New Zealand, an advanced small and open economy. Using multi-level modelling, this study tests competing hypotheses, asking whether domestic and international network searches are complements or substitutes when seeking ambidexterity.

Findings

The research finds that, in contrast to earlier research, which shows increasing network breadth drives innovation activity, SMEs benefit less from knowledge search across combined domestic and international networks for exploration innovation and ambidexterity. In contrast, exploitation shows no effect, suggesting that combined networks could support exploitation.

Originality/value

This paper highlights how SMEs mitigate the influence resource constraints have on the partnerships they form and how this translates to ambidexterity. Specifically, recognising that an opportunistic approach to network development may impose future constraints on SME ambidexterity. From a management perspective, the paper recognises that balancing knowledge search across domestic and international networks can facilitate ambidexterity; however, to prevent spreading resources too thinly, this likely requires exit from early domestic innovation network partnerships.
Optimization of new fire department location using an improved GIS algorithm for firefighters travel time estimation
Authors: Awad Anas M.M. , Wikantika Ketut , Ali Haytham , Abujayyab Sohaib K.M. , Hashempour Javad
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The rapid development of urban areas in Sleman District, Indonesia, has created new challenges for firefighting response services. One of the primary challenges is to identify the optimal locations for new fire stations, to improve service quality and maximize service coverage within the specified time.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper proposes a method for precisely calculating travel time that integrates delay time caused by traffic lights, intersections and congestion. The study highlights the importance of precise calculation of travel time in order to provide a more accurate understanding of the service area covered by the fire stations. The proposed method utilizes network analysis in ArcGIS, the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) and simple additive weighting (SAW) to accurately calculate travel time and to identify the best locations for new fire stations. The identification of new site was based on service safety, service quality, service costs and demographic factors and applied to the Sleman district in Indonesia.

Findings

The results showed that the total area covered by old and new fire stations decreased from 61% to 31.8% of the study area when the adjusted default speed scenario was implemented.

Practical implications

The results indicated that the default speed scenario could provide misleading information about the service area, while the adjusted default speed scenario improved service quality and maximized service coverage.

Originality/value

The proposed method provides decision-makers with an effective tool to make informed decisions on optimal locations for new fire stations and thus enhance emergency response and public safety.
Is there a relationship between housing deprivation and crime? Evidence for the Spanish case
Authors: Torres-Tellez Jonathan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Crime increased in Spain during the period of 2017–2019 after a decade of decline. This coincides with severe housing deprivation multiplying by three in just four years, affecting 3.4% of the population in 2020. However, no research has been found that analyzes whether this deterioration of the physical conditions of housing and its environmental elements has impacted the level of crime in Spain. This study aims to analyze how housing deprivation affects crime in the Spanish context.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, different items that are considered by Eurostat as elements of housing deprivation are used. The difference generalized method of moments estimator is used for 16 Spanish regions that comprises the period from 2013 to 2019.

Findings

The results suggest that certain structural and environmental elements of housing are positively associated with crime: space (0.5% and 0.4%) and high housing expenditure (0.4% and 0.5%) are positively correlated with the two dependent variables; the lack of light and overcrowding stand out as they establish a positive and statistically significant association with four out of the six analyzed crime categories; the absence of lighting effect reaches up to 1.8% and 1.7% in the case of violent robberies and vehicle theft, respectively. Finally, pollution is negatively associated with robbery with violence (−1.9%), theft (−0.7%) and robbery with force (−0.5%).

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first study that examines whether this deterioration of the physical conditions of housing has impacted the level of crime in Spain. It is also pioneering at the European level by using nonmonetary dimensions of inequality such as housing.
Dynamic efficiency in MENA stock markets during COVID-19 outbreak and vaccines
Authors: Belhoula Mohamed Malek , Mensi Walid , Naoui Kamel
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This paper examines the time-varying efficiency of nine major Middle East and North Africa (MENA) stock markets namely Egypt, Bahrain, UAE, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Oman, Qatar, Morocco and Tunisia during times of COVID-19 pandemic outbreak and vaccines.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use two econometric approaches: (1) autocorrelation tests including the wild bootstrap automatic variance ratio test, the automatic portmanteau test and the Generalized spectral test, and (2) a non-Bayesian generalized least squares-based time-varying model with statistical inferences.

Findings

The results show that the degree of stock market efficiency of Egyptian, Bahraini, Saudi, Moroccan and Tunisian stock markets is influenced by the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. Furthermore, the authors find a tendency toward efficiency in most of the MENA markets after the announcement of the COVID-19's vaccine approval. Finally, the Jordanian, Omani, Qatari and UAE stock markets remain globally efficient during the three sub-periods of the COVID-19 pandemic outbreak.

Originality/value

The results have important implications for asset allocations and financial risk management. Portfolio managers may maximize the benefit of arbitrage opportunities by taking strategic long and short positions in these markets during downward trend periods. Policymakers should implement the action plans and reforms to protect the stock markets from global shocks and ensure the stability of the stock markets.
Internationalization at Home from a Chinese perspective: the case of iZJU
Authors: Qu Lijuan , Dai Yuwen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Higher education institutions have a critical role in creating and disseminating the knowledge required to address the complex global challenges faced by global society, as summarized in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This role of higher education is linked with the concept of internationalization, which has recently been called upon to help contribute to tackle the global challenges and meet the SDGs, particularly through more attention to “Internationalization at Home” (IaH). This paper aims to examine the role of higher education in addressing the SDGs, especially with respect to the links between IaH and the SDGs.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of the International Campus of Zhejiang University (iZJU) is conducted to illustrate how iZJU, which is a pioneer of “Internationalization at Home” and an exemplar of sustainable campus in China, contributes to the value of the SDGs and makes an impact.

Findings

The authors examine the practice of IaH at iZJU in the dimensions of organization, curriculum, people and campus, and the authors find evidence from the iZJU model in addressing the value of the SDG4, 6, 7, 11, 13, 14, 15, 16 and 17.

Originality/value

First, the authors contribute to the literature on the role of higher education in addressing the SDGs, especially with respect to the links between IaH and the SDGs. Second, the authors contribute to the IaH literature by examining IaH from a Chinese perspective, as there has been little exploration of what IaH means beyond the European context. Third, the authors build on the analytical framework in the IaH literature in the dimensions of organization, curriculum and people and extend with a new dimension of campus. Fourth, the authors show that IaH is a comprehensive approach to include both curriculum internationalization and campus internationalization.
Research on fatigue curve fitting methods based on the notch stress approach
Authors: Xue Shengfu , He Zhengping , Chen Bingzhi , Xu Jianxin
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study investigates the fitting techniques for notch fatigue curves, seeking a more reliable method to predict the lifespan of welded structures.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on the fatigue test results of butt and cruciform joints, this research delves into the selection of fitting methods for the notch fatigue curve of welded joints. Both empirical formula and finite element methods (FEMs) were employed to assess the notch stress concentration factor at the toe and root of the two types of welded joints. Considering the mean stress correction and weld misalignment coefficients, the notch fatigue life curves were established using both direct and indirect methods.

Findings

An engineering example was employed to discern the differences between the direct and indirect approaches. The findings highlight the enhanced reliability of the indirect method for fitting the fatigue life curve.

Originality/value

While the notch stress approach is extensively adopted due to its accurate prediction of component fatigue life, most scholars have overlooked the importance of its curve fitting methods. Existing literature scantily addresses the establishment of these curves. This paper offers a focused examination of fatigue curve fitting techniques, delivering valuable perspectives on method selection.
Sports team success and managerial decisions: the role of playing-time concentration
Authors: Cardazzi Alexander , Humphreys Brad R. , Reddig Kole
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Professional sports teams employ highly paid managers and coaches to train players and make tactical and strategic team decisions. A large literature analyzes the impact of manager decisions on team outcomes. Empirical analysis of manager decisions requires a quantifiable proxy variable for manager decisions. Previous research focused on manager dismissals, tenure on teams, the number of substitutions made in games or the number of healthy players on rosters held out of games for rest, generally finding small positive impacts of manager decisions on team success.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors quantify manager decisions by developing a novel measure of game-specific coaching decisions: the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI) of playing-time across players on a team roster over the course of a season.

Findings

Evidence from two-way fixed effects regression models explaining observed variation in National Basketball Association team winning percentage over the 1999–2000 to 2018–2019 seasons show a significant association between managers’ allocation of playing time and team success. A one standard deviation change in playing-time HHI that reflects a flattened distribution of player talent is associated with between one and two additional wins per season, holding the talent of players on the team roster constant. Heterogeneity exists in the impact across teams with different player talent.

Originality/value

This is one of the first papers to examine playing-time concentration in the NBA. The results are important for understanding how managerial decisions about resource allocation lead to sustained competitive advantage. Linking coaching decisions to wins can help teams to better promote this core product.
Purpose wins? A study of purpose-profit orientations, stakeholder perceptions and trust in firms
Authors: Peters Suzanne
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The research seeks to evaluate stakeholder perceptions of firms, the extent these assessments impact trust in firms and possible implications for sustainability communications.

Design/methodology/approach

Three studies were undertaken involving two experiments (n = 436, n = 393) and one survey (n = 217). Analyses of variance was used in all three studies and in studies 2 and 3—to test for possible mediators—each variable was tested using Hayes' PROCESS macro (Hayes, 2013) with bootstrapping of 5,000 samples.

Findings

Results demonstrate significant favouring of sustainability-minded firms. Some differences between consumers and investors were found but also notable commonalities such as a general propensity to favour purpose-oriented firms and similar determinations of trust in firms.

Practical implications

Findings could support more effective sustainability communications and firm decisions regarding investments in purpose- and sustainability-oriented initiatives. The results may also support designs to pursue and promote designations (e.g. B Corp) that legitimize sustainability claims.

Originality/value

This research was unique in its evaluation of two stakeholder types in the same context. Further, it provides new insights into how a firm’s profit-purpose orientation affects stakeholder perceptions and assessments of trustworthiness.
The in-between: information experience within human-companion animal living environments
Authors: Solhjoo Niloofar , Krtalić Maja , Goulding Anne
Published: January 2024

Purpose

While exploring the information experience within multispecies families, the subjective nature of humans and non-human entities, living beings and non-living objects becomes evident. This paper aims to reveal the underlying significance of information within socio-physical living environments shared among humans, cats and dogs as companions.

Design/methodology/approach

Gaining inspiration from the information experience approach and posthumanism, this is a phenomenological paper. Empirical material related to lived experiences of participating families were gathered through multispecies ethnography methods, followed by phenomenological reflections. The paper has been written based on excerpt-commentary-units and the inclusion of videos and images as an approach to convey the richness of the lived experiences and multiple perspectives.

Findings

Findings are organised into three main sections, each capturing lived experiences of information and its utilization from various frames. The paper shows how living beings, both human and animal, use their physical, sensual and moving bodies to acquire and convey information to and from each other. Moving beyond the living beings, the study discusses how non-living objects in the physical environment of a multispecies family also shape information. Material objects, spatial locations and even plants became sources of information for the family members. Lastly, the paper delves into the social environment of the family, where all members, human and animal, are actively shaped by information within their social interactions and companionship.

Originality/value

Considering information distributed across species and material objects in a shared, more-than-human environment, the article suggests implications for an information experience approach. It emphasizes how information shapes the in-between humans, animals and their environment, highlighting their reliance on each other for understanding and living a good shared life. There is a need for future research to explore the information experience within the internal subjective minds of members of multispecies families, bridging the gap in the understanding of these external information and their internal information processes.
Equity issuance, share buy-back and growth in a Kaldor-Kalecki model
Authors: Charles Sébastien
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this article is to assess the macroeconomic consequences of some specific aspects of financialization (i.e. share buy-back) using a hybrid post-Keynesian model of growth and distribution based on Kaldorian and Kaleckian characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

The study follows a post-Keynesian approach and deals with financialization issues by implementing several numerical simulations.

Findings

The numerical simulations reveal the negative real impacts of massive share repurchases on the rate of accumulation because they immediately siphon off revenues directly intended for investment projects. Moreover, the negative effect of share buy-backs is reinforced especially when firms' investment decisions are more sensitive to a variation in retained earnings. Next, this macro-model also reproduces several well-known figures of the Kaleckian tradition and the paradox of costs.

Research limitations/implications

The present article can be considered as a starting point for further theoretical extensions and requires empirical validation.

Originality/value

The Kaldor-Kalecki macro-model could be useful for policymakers who are interested in containing some of the negative excesses of financialization.
The current state of published literature on halal tourism and hospitality: a bibliometric review
Authors: Battour Mohamed , Ratnasari Ririn Tri , Ahmi Aidi , Sukmana Raditya , Hendratmi Achsania
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to present the current state of published literature concerning halal tourism and hospitality studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This research discovered 314 Scopus documents from 2003 until 2023 regarding existing studies related to this field. The present study then used a bibliometric analysis of this data set. The present research analysed the documents' bibliographical data based on year, source title, country of origin, institution, authors, keywords and citations. Microsoft Excel, bibliometrix, Harzing's Publish or Perish and VOSviewer software applications were used to conduct a frequency analysis, evaluate the impact and map bibliometric networks regarding halal hospitality. This study has presented the evolution of publications in the research field by year, the top players in source titles, countries, institutions and authors. This paper also evaluated the intellectual structure of existing research concerning halal tourism and hospitality and presented the most influential documents in this field. There were 112.21 citations per year, 7.21 per paper and 3.14 authors per paper.

Findings

The findings revealed that the study trend concerning halal tourism and hospitality had attracted the attention of academics and developed into a significant field in 2016. Malaysia and Indonesia have been the major contributors to halal hospitality research, with the highest proportion of authors.

Research limitations/implications

In general, this study also has limitations similar to other studies. The research data were derived solely from the Scopus database, which has the advantage of being the most comprehensive database indexing all scientific works, even though it does not easily cover all available sources.

Originality/value

The present research has differed from previous research in that it examined literature published in Scopus concerning research on halal hospitality from 2003 to 2022. It analysed bibliographic data by year, source title, country, institution, author, keywords and citations.
Impact of supervisor phubbing on workplace incivility and workplace presenteeism: mediation and moderation effect of self-esteem and power distance
Authors: Hasan Syed Aarij , Naseem Afshan , Mahmood Muzamil , Sajjad Zunaira , Mirza Muhammad Zeeshan
Published: January 2024

Purpose

Supervisor phubbing is an increasingly common behavior depicted by supervisors despite the significance of supervisor–subordinate interactions. This study explores the impact of this behavior on workplace incivility and workplace presenteeism and analyzes the mediating role of self-esteem and the moderating role of power distance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from employees belonging to IT sector. The research was cross-sectional in nature and the data were collected using a structured questionnaire.

Findings

The findings indicate a significant impact of supervisor phubbing on self-esteem, workplace incivility and workplace presenteeism. Additionally, results reveal the mediating role of self-esteem between supervisor phubbing and workplace presenteeism. However, the moderating effect of power distance on the relationship between supervisor phubbing and self-esteem was not supported.

Originality/value

The research contributes to the existing literature and theory, especially in the area of supervisor phubbing and communications management. The study suggests a need for comprehensive approach that involves both organizational policies and individual behavior change.
Reducing plastic waste in the workplace: a program evaluation
Authors: Mathew Alieena , Isbanner Sebastian , Rundle-Thiele Sharyn
Published: January 2024

Purpose

This study aims to develop a research agenda for the advancement of theory application in practical contexts by presenting a case study of the Engagement in Plastic-free Innovation for Change (EPIC) programme delivered by Plastic Oceans Australasia (POA).

Design/methodology/approach

EPIC is a behaviour change programme by POA that aims to reduce single-use plastic (SUP) consumption in workplaces. The study evaluates the programme’s impact on employee perceptions and actual behaviour through pre- and post-programme data collection in two Australian workplaces. Data was gathered via online surveys and waste audits and analysed using SPSS statistics and Excel.

Findings

The case study highlights the need for theory application in programme evaluation instruments. Theory was not used in the programme evaluation tool, and theory could not be mapped onto the tool retroactively. The data from the present study showed mixed results. Data from Workplaces 1 and 2 indicated that EPIC successfully improved three out of seven employee perceptions of SUP reduction efforts. However, individual workplace data showed that EPIC only improved one out of seven perceptions in Workplace 1 and three out of seven perceptions in Workplace 2. Surprisingly, Workplace 1 observed a decrease in plastic waste after the programme, while Workplace 2 saw an increase. Without the clear integration of theory, it is difficult to pinpoint areas for improvement. It is, however, posited that COVID-19 restrictions on people attending their workplaces and low survey response rates may have contributed to these unexpected results.

Practical implications

The present study highlights key improvements that can be made to evaluations of voluntary behaviour change programmes. Careful evaluation of behaviour change programmes is key to improving programme effectiveness. Practitioners will find the suggested improvements from this study helpful in developing and refining voluntary behaviour change programme evaluations.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to evaluate the impacts of a voluntary behaviour change programme aimed at reducing SUPs in the workplace. It also adds to the limited literature on voluntary behaviour change interventions overall and adds to the movement towards better application of theory in behaviour change interventions.