bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Investigating the technical efficiency of Japanese national universities following corporatization: a two-stage data envelopment analysis approach
Authors: Thai Khanh Quoc , Noguchi Masayoshi 
Published: July 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to measure the technical efficiency of Japanese national universities over the period 2010–2016. In addition, the authors also sought to identify the determinants of efficiency, especially those amenable to public policy intervention.Design/methodology/approachFirst, the authors ran a global intertemporal data envelopment analysis to understand the trends in efficiency for national universities over the relevant period. Following this, the authors conducted a second-stage regression using a double-bootstrapped truncated regression model to identify the possible determinants of efficiency.FindingsThe authors found no evidence to suggest that technical efficiency of national universities systematically decreased or increased in response to either structural reform or a reduction to government grants. Moreover, the share of government grants, the size of universities and disciplines of study offered by the universities were statistically significant determinants of efficiency.Practical implicationsThe study results suggest that efficacious public policy remedies might include inter alia measures to reduce the reliance on public funding, efforts to attract more foreign students, the execution of mergers among small universities and consolidation of inefficient departments.Originality/valueThis research fills an important gap in the scholarly literature with respect to Japanese national universities and identifies possible determinants to efficiency, which are amenable to remedial public policy interventions.
Enhanced optimization assisted interference mitigation with vertical beamforming in 3D MIMO-OFDMA for 5G wireless communication network
Authors: Yadav Ranjeet , Tripathi Ashutosh 
Published: July 2021

Purpose
Multiple input multiple-output (MIMO) has emerged as one among the many noteworthy technologies in recent wireless applications because of its powerful ability to improve bandwidth efficiency and performance, i.e. through developing its unique spatial multiplexing capability and spatial diversity gain. For carrying out an enhanced communication in next-generation networks, the MIMO and orthogonal frequency division multiple systems were combined that facilitate the spatial multiplexing on resource blocks (RBs) based on time-frequency. This paper aims to propose a novel approach for maximizing the throughput of cell-edge users and cell-center users.

Design/methodology/approach
In this work, the specified multi-objective function is defined as the single objective function, which is solved by the introduction of a new improved algorithm as well. This optimization problem can be resolved by the fine-tuning of certain parameters such as assigned power for RB, cell-center user, cell-edge user and RB allocation. The fine-tuning of parameters is attained by a new improved Lion algorithm (LA), termed as Lion with new cub generation (LA-NCG) model. Finally, the betterment of the presented approach is validated over the existing models in terms of signal to interference plus noise ratio, throughput and so on.

Findings
On examining the outputs, the adopted LA-NCG model for 4BS was 66.67%, 66.67% and 20% superior to existing joint processing coordinated multiple point-based dual decomposition method (JC-DDM), fractional programming (FP) and LA models. In addition, the throughput of conventional JC-DDM, FP and LA models lie at a range of 10, 45 and 35, respectively, at the 100th iteration. However, the presented LA-NCG scheme accomplishes a higher throughput of 58. Similarly, the throughput of the adopted scheme observed for 8BS was 59.68%, 44.19% and 9.68% superior to existing JC-DDM, FP and LA models. Thus, the enhancement of the adopted LA-NCG model has been validated effectively from the attained outcomes.

Originality/value
This paper adopts the latest optimization algorithm called LA-NCG to establish a novel approach for maximizing the throughput of cell-edge users and cell-center users. This is the first that work uses LA-NCG-based optimization that assists in fine-tuning certain parameters such as assigned power for RB, cell-center user, cell-edge user and RB allocation.
Thermal treatment process of PET bottles filaments using industrial design of experiments
Authors: Lemos Cotrim Syntia , Machado Ageu Araújo , Leal Gislaine Camila Lapasini , Ravagnani Mauro Antonio da Silva Sá , Galdamez Edwin Vladimir Cardoza 
Published: July 2021

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present the application of Design of Experiments techniques for the analysis of operating parameters of an industrial oven for the heat treatment process of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottle filaments.Design/methodology/approachThe focus is on evaluating new ways of operating the transformation process. The main issue is to raise what are the variables interfering with the performance of the oven. The complete 2k factorial for three factors of control was used to analyze the behavior of these variables and their relationships in the specific response parameter for the process.FindingsThe results presented in this work allow the company to have greater knowledge about the operation of the equipment. The study showed possibilities of 14.8% energy reduction.Research limitations/implicationsThe heat treatment activity was characterized as a critical point in the production process, and techniques with empirical approaches, based on statistical techniques, was an opportunity that the company has to improve the execution of activities without major investments for the quality of the final product. The application of statistical quality techniques showed to be very promising.Originality/valueThe fact that the study was conducted using subjective quality performance makes this work different from others presented in the literature, showing the possibility to apply Design of Experiments using main control factors based on the opinion of experienced personnel involved in the process analyzed.
The power of fears in the travel decision – covid-19 against lack of money
Authors: Gajić Tamara , Petrović Marko D. , Blešić Ivana , Radovanović Milan M. , Syromiatnikova Julia A. 
Published: July 2021

PurposeDuring the pandemic, two types of fear were identified that occur significantly in all groups or profiles of people. The aim of this paper is to determine which of the two types of fears exist in certain psychological groups, and which of the fears strongly influence the decision to travel.Design/methodology/approachThe VALS 2 method and standardized questionnaire were used for the segmentation of the tourist market or for the determination of the psychographic profiles of the consumers, and three additional questions were joined to it as they were vital for the research of the type of fear and its impact on the decision for traveling. When the reliability of the questionnaire and the validity of the sample were determined, the data were further processed using a computer program package IMB AMOS SPSS 21.00, and then, based on the theoretical suppositions and hypotheses, the SEM structural model was created.FindingsThe paper indicates the existence of established types of fears in humans, when it comes to pandemics and similar crisis situations. People are most afraid of infection during travel, and lack of funds and job loss during the critical period of the pandemic. The research conducted confirms that all groups of people, who are determined by the psychological technique VALS 2, react with a certain dose of fear and make decisions under the pressure of fears.Research limitations/implicationsThe research had limitations in terms of contact with people and conducting live surveys. The measures during the pandemic, which were carried out by the state, included social distance and limited movement of people.Practical implicationsThe work can contribute to the community, along with similar research. The results of the research will be available, and it will be possible to see the behavior of people during crisis situations, and the impact of fears on making decisions, both travel decisions and decisions related to other areas of life.Originality/valueThe paper provides research results on a large sample of respondents, and can serve as a basis for further research in the field of tourism, psychology and similar fields. It is crucial to consider the type of fears, and the strength of the impact of these fears on the decision to travel, during crisis situations.
Use of infographics as a technology-based information dissemination tool: the perspective of Egyptian public university libraries library staff
Authors: Mansour Essam 
Published: July 2021

PurposeThis study aims to explore the potential use of infographics as a technology-based information dissemination tool in Egyptian public university libraries.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative approach was used in the form of a survey conducted in February 202. The survey tool was a self-administrated questionnaire. The study sample consisted of valid responses from 231 library staff. Of this number, 173 (74.9%) were infographics users, and 58 (25.1%) were infographics users.FindingsInfographics users tended to be males between 31 and 45 years of age, mostly BA holders, librarians, with work experience ranging from 11 to 25 years. On the other hand, infographics nonusers tended to be also males between 31 and 45 years of age, mostly BA holders, librarians, with work experience ranging from 11 to 25 years. The majority of library staff used infographics mainly to provide information about the library's map, news, services, events, contact, working hours, policies and activities, to provide guidance, instructions on the library use, explain its classification scheme and provide statistical data. The largest number of library staff indicated that their use of informational infographics ranged from “Completely used” to “Most used”, followed by statistical infographics and timeline infographics The use of informational infographics and statistical infographics described to be at least fairly easy to them. In addition, the use of timeline infographics, statistical infographics and informational infographics has also been described to at least fairly useful to them. A very large number of infographics users indicated that these means are attractive, effective, persuasive, focused, easy to embed, easy to read, artistic, easy to track, highly digestible data, easily shareable, easily rememberable, informative and understandable. About two-thirds of infographics users showed that they provided infographics through a computer-based format, followed by both printed and computer-based formats, and printed format. Barriers, such as lack of awareness of infographics, lack of knowledge about infographics, lack of time needed and lack of necessary technical skills, have been described as the greatest barriers to the use of infographics by library staff.Originality/valueThis study is one of the very few studies concerned with the potential role of using infographics in Egyptian public university libraries, which relates to the presentation of information in the library environment.
Digital transformation as a strategy to reach sustainability
Authors: Gomez-Trujillo Ana Maria , Gonzalez-Perez Maria Alejandra 
Published: July 2021

PurposeThis paper aims to summarize previous research findings on the mutual relation between digital transformation and sustainability at a firm-level. Up to date, there is a gap in the literature linking both concepts and a generalized call for more studies.Design/methodology/approachThis research uses a systematic literature review of 89 published studies. After detailed content analysis filters, the authors used 75. The authors present the results following the “Six W” guidelines for systematic literature reviews.FindingsFindings reveal that it is possible to suggest a research framework that considers digital transformation as a driver and a predecessor of sustainability. To survive the digital revolution, companies need to enhance their digital capabilities and balance their economic, environmental and social impacts.Research limitations/implicationsThe precision of the equation used to search manuscripts might have excluded some critical studies that analyze both topics with different connotations beyond merely “Digital transformation” and “Sustainability.” Moreover, the heterogeneity of the findings makes it difficult to classify the findings in a specific context.Originality/valueThe present paper serves as a base to understand the implications of digital transformation on sustainable development for businesses and societies.
Appraising screening, making risk in/visible. The medical debate over Non‐Rare Thrombophilia (NRT) testing before prescribing the pill
Authors: Turrini Mauro , Bourgain Catherine 
Published: July 2021

AbstractNon‐rare thrombophilia (NRT) are hereditary predispositions to thromboembolism, the most severe side effect of combined hormonal contraception. In the mid‐1990s, the identification of NRT stirred up a controversy over the possibility of investigating these genetic variants in women wishing to use contraception. Through a review of literature, this article reconstructs the debate over whether and how this genetic test should be prescribed as a way to reconfigure the risk visibility on pharmacological contraception. The main arguments identified concern the epidemiological, social, economic and clinical aspects of the test. In a context where the overall thrombotic risk for hormonal contraception is largely invisible, the genetic tests turn to embody the thrombotic risk itself. Those who opt for selective screening argue that a better estimation of risk implies a test prescription embed in a global medical assessment of women's individual risk. To advocates of universal or ‘extended’ screening, the tests are valuable tools to inform women on the thrombotic risk and, as such, appraised as a moral/legal obligation, whatever their predictive power. Risk visibility thus appears as an insightful concept to analyse a complex setting associating clinical, political, social and cultural considerations that touches upon medical power, women's responsibility and drug safety.
Infrared spectroscopy and forensic entomology: Can this union work? A literature review
Authors: Jales Jessica T. , Barbosa Taciano M. , de Medeiros Jucélia R. , de Lima Leomir A. S. , de Lima Kássio M. G. , Gama Renata A. 
Published: July 2021

AbstractFor more than two decades, infrared spectroscopy techniques combined with multivariate analysis have been efficiently applied in several entomological fields, such as Taxonomy and Toxicology. However, little is known about its use and applicability in Forensic entomology (FE) field, with vibrational techniques such as Near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS) and Medium‐infrared spectroscopy (MIRS) underutilized in forensic sciences. Thus, this work describes the potential of NIRS, MIRS, and other spectroscopic methodologies, for entomological analysis in FE, as well as discusses its future uses for criminal or civil investigations. After a thorough research on scientific journals database, a total of 33 publications were found in scientific journals, with direct or indirect application to FE, including experimental applications of NIRS and MIRS in taxonomic discrimination of species, larval age prediction, detection of toxic substances in insects from environments or crime scenes, and detection of internal or external infestations by live or dead insects in stored products. Besides, NIRS and MIRS combined with multivariate analysis were efficient, inexpensive, fast, and non‐destructive analytical tools. However, more than 51% of the spectroscopic publications are concentrated in the stored products field, and so we discuss the need for expansion and more direct application in other FE areas. We hope the number of articles continues to increase, and as NIRS and MIRS technology progress, they advance in forensic research and routine use.
Functional dissection and modulation of the BirA protein for improved autotrophic growth of gas‐fermenting Clostridium ljungdahlii
Authors: Zhang Can , Nie Xiaoqun , Zhang Huan , Wu Yuwei , He Huiqi , Yang Chen , Jiang Weihong , Gu Yang 
Published: July 2021

SummaryGas‐fermenting Clostridium species can convert one‐carbon gases (CO2/CO) into a variety of chemicals and fuels, showing excellent application prospects in green biological manufacturing. The discovery of crucial genes and proteins with novel functions is important for understanding and further optimization of these autotrophic bacteria. Here, we report that the Clostridium ljungdahlii BirA protein (ClBirA) plays a pleiotropic regulator role, which, together with its biotin protein ligase (BPL) activity, enables an effective control of autotrophic growth of C. ljungdahlii. The structural modulation of ClBirA, combined with the in vivo and in vitro analyses, further reveals the action mechanism of ClBirA’s dual roles as well as their interaction in C. ljungdahlii. Importantly, an atypical, flexible architecture of the binding site was found to be employed by ClBirA in the regulation of a lot of essential pathway genes, thereby expanding BirA’s target genes to a broader range in clostridia. Based on these findings, molecular modification of ClBirA was performed, and an improved cellular performance of C. ljungdahlii was achieved in gas fermentation. This work reveals a previously unknown potent role of BirA in gas‐fermenting clostridia, providing new perspective for understanding and engineering these autotrophic bacteria.
‘The Astronomic Muse’: Charles Burney and Astronomy
Authors: Bander Elaine 
Published: July 2021

AbstractLate in life, musicologist Dr Charles Burney composed Astronomy: An Historical and Didactic Poem, a twelve‐canto poem on the history of astronomy, uniting his two amateur pastimes, poetry and astronomy. The poem led to friendship with Court Astronomer William Herschel, and for years Burney shared the work‐in‐progress, modelled (I argue) on Erasmus Darwin's scientific poems, in scribal coteries. Between 1807 and 1812, however, Burney burned the manuscript; only fragments survive. While biographer Roger Lonsdale attributes this destruction to Burney's ‘realization that for years he had been boring his friends’, I argue it was his fear, as he prepared the poem for publication, that the changing literary marketplace would damage his reputation as man of letters. My re‐dating of the major fragment reinforces this argument.
Bank Lending and Corporate Innovation: Evidence from SFAS 166/167*
Authors: Dou Yiwei , Xu Zhaoxia 
Published: July 2021

ABSTRACTUnderstanding the role of bank lending in corporate innovation is important to policymakers, practitioners, and academics. We provide new evidence on such a role by exploiting the implementation of SFAS 166/167, which removed the off‐balance sheet status of certain securitized assets of banks. The regulation affects bank lending and thus represents a credit supply shock to borrowing firms. We find that affected banks raise spreads and cut loan amounts after the regulation. Firms that borrow from affected banks reduce R&D investment and the number and quality of the patents they generate. The reduction is concentrated among firms whose banks experience more downward pressure on capital ratios and greater market discipline, and firms that are more dependent on external financing. Additional analyses reveal that information asymmetry between incumbent banks and outsiders with respect to borrowing firms prevent them from switching. The overall findings suggest that bank lending promotes borrowing firms' innovation activities. Policies that restrict bank lending are likely to hurt innovation of borrowers.
Performance of a phylogenetic independent contrast method and an improved pairwise comparison under different scenarios of trait evolution after speciation and duplication
Authors: Begum Tina , Serrano‐Serrano Martha Liliana , Robinson‐Rechavi Marc 
Published: July 2021

Abstract

Despite the importance of gene function to evolutionary biology, the applicability of comparative methods to gene function is poorly known. A specific case which has crystallized methodological questions is the ‘orthologue conjecture’, the hypothesis that function evolves faster after duplication (i.e. in paralogues), and conversely is conserved between orthologues. Since the mode of functional evolution after duplication is not well known, we investigate under which reasonable evolutionary scenarios phylogenetic independent contrasts or pairwise comparisons can recover a putative signal of different functional evolution between orthologues and paralogues.

We investigate three different simulation models, which represent reasonable but simplified hypotheses about the evolution of a gene function trait. These are time‐dependent trait acceleration, correlated changes in rates of both sequence and trait evolution and asymmetric trait jump. For each model we tested phylogenetic independent contrasts and an improved pairwise comparison method which accounts for interactions between events and node age.

Both approaches lose power to detect the trend of functional evolution when the functional trait accelerates for a long time following duplication for trees with many duplications, with better power of phylogenetic contrasts under intermediate scenarios. Concomitant increase in evolutionary rates of sequence and of trait after duplication can lead to both an incorrect rejection of the null under null simulations of trait evolution, and a false rejection of the orthologue conjecture under orthologue conjecture simulations, by phylogenetic independent contrasts. Improved pairwise comparisons are robust to this bias. Both approaches perform equally well under rapid shifts in traits.

Considering our ignorance of gene function evolution, and the potential for bias under simple models, we recommend methodological pluralism in studying gene family evolution. Functional phylogenomics is complex and results supported by only one method should be treated with caution.