bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Utilising factor analysis on political risks including strategies of managing firm-specific risk factors for multinational construction projects in Pakistan
Authors: Amaechi Chiemela Victor , Ullah Safi , Deng Xiaopeng , Beddu Salmia Binti , Ja’e Idris Ahmed , Mohamed Daud Bin , Syamsir Agusril 
Published: December 2024

Purpose The purpose of this article is to investigate the influence that firm-specific characteristics, such as organisational capabilities, risk management methods and stakeholder relationships, have on political risks (PRs) that are associated with multinational construction projects in Pakistan.Design/methodology/approach The methodology employed in this investigation involved the acquisition of data through the use of questionnaires administered to experts in the construction industry. The research applied a quantitative method, and the sources of the data are from the Pakistani stakeholders. One hundred questionnaires were used for the data collection during field visits. Based on the data, it has been ensured that the valid questionnaires were utilised, and the data were tested for validity and reliability. The analysis tool utilised was SPSS software. For the questionnaire, a total of 15 firm-specific factors were considered in order to design the survey, which specifically targeted the identified features. The factors identified as risks were investigated using quantitative method to determine firm-specific risks.FindingsIt was found that when stakeholders have a better grasp of these dynamics, they are better able to strengthen their resilience and efficacy in managing PRs, which ultimately increases the likelihood that the project will be successful.Research limitations/implications International construction projects (ICPs) in emerging countries are substantially impacted by PRs, which can have a considerable impact on their success and sustainability. The study is localised and not generic as it is limited to Pakistan, and the risk factors considered are firm-specific but related to PRs.Practical implications By identifying key risk factors, these firms can develop targeted risk management strategies, leading to enhanced decision-making and more efficient resource allocation. Effective strategies include diversification, local partnerships and comprehensive risk assessments tailored to the unique challenges faced by international contracting firms in Pakistan.Social implications ICPs in emerging countries like Pakistan face critical problems, which include the presence of PRs. Although the larger political environment plays a significant part, the manner in which businesses navigate and mitigate PRs is also influenced by firm-specific elements.Originality/value The study is novel in terms of the factors looked at, the data, the conceptual framework and the findings of the study. The dynamic political scene, which is characterised by instability, policy changes, corruption and geopolitical conflicts, poses significant dangers to the timeliness of projects, the expenses of such projects and the investments that are made in those projects.
Minimization of losses in postharvest of fresh produce supply chain
Authors: Madhavarao Seshadri Narassima , Singanallur Palanisamy Anbuudayasankar , Mohanavelu Thenarasu , McDermott Olivia 
Published: December 2024

PurposeGlobalization and population explosion have worsened postharvest losses (PHL) in developing countries. This study looks to identify numerous controllable variables to reduce these losses and make the fresh produce supply chain more efficient.Design/methodology/approachThe study employs the interpretive structural modelling (ISM) technique to develop a hierarchical model to comprehend the intricate relationships between the variables influencing PHL. These variables are further classified based on the relative levels of importance in terms of their driving and dependence powers.FindingsThe findings of this research provide variables for enterprises operating in fresh food supply chains to understand the specific risks that that supply chain faces and how these risks interact within the system. The fuzzy MICMAC analysis also classifies and highlights critical risk factors in the supply chain to aid implementation of PHL mitigation measures. The study highlights the importance of devising policies, legislation and efforts to regulate and curtail PHL across the global food supply chain.Research limitations/implicationsThe efficiency of the food supply chain contributes not only to economic sustainability but also to broader goals such as food security, better utilisation of global resources and sustainability in the supply chain.Social implicationsIt also highlights the significance of well-informed government policies, laws and regulations in successfully controlling and reducing PHL.Originality/valueThis study compares factors contributing to PHL in the fresh produce supply chain and emphasises the stakeholders’ critical role in alleviating these losses. It also highlights the significance of well-informed government policies, laws and regulations in successfully controlling and reducing PHL.
A hybrid approach based on critical chain for project buffer consumption prediction and monitoring
Authors: Xu Jiaojiao , Bai Sijun 
Published: December 2024

PurposeThe critical chain project buffer monitor process addresses uncertainty and variability in project duration. However, classical buffer monitor methods only consider buffer consumption, while the dynamic allocation of buffer zones and the buffer consumption trend of activities are ignored. This paper presents the innovative framework for dynamic monitoring of project buffer which covers the dynamic buffer allocation, predictive analytics of buffer utilization and a new monitoring technique based on control chart graph.Design/methodology/approachFirst, a dynamically buffer allocation model is framed, and buffer zones are given to the activities considering risks. Then, a predictive model amalgamating Bayesian Optimization, Convolutional Neural Networks, and Long Short-Term Memory networks (BO-CNN-LSTM) is framed. Finally, a new buffer monitor framework is constructed that takes into account historical information about buffer usage and utilizes two thresholds derived from control chart theory.FindingsThis approach is empirically tested on a representative agricultural website project in China. The results show that, first, the dynamic buffer allocation makes better use of the project buffer, reduces buffer waste and increases the possibility of timely completion of the project. Second, the BO-CNN-LSTM model predicts better than Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) and Grey Neural Network Model (GNNM), providing project managers with new management insights and perspectives. Third, the novel monitoring procedure makes the leveraging of historical data possible in the control of the schedule deviations, allowing for more timely interventions in the course of the implementation of the project.Originality/valueA new project buffer monitoring method suitable for uncertain project environments is proposed.
The role of human and social capital in achieving manufacturing objectives
Authors: Turner Karynne , Miree Cynthia , Coppin Addington 
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this article is to highlight manufacturing challenges faced by firms and present a framework that can be used to guide managers on the benefits and risks of balancing between social and human capital to address firm goals and outcomes related to quality or productivity.

Design/methodology/approach
The article provides a brief review of the literature and provides guidance to managers on how to best align human and social capital with the firm's strategic orientation.

Findings
Firms must balance their investments in the development and leveraging of their employees' human and social capital for maximum impact on the firm's strategic goals.

Originality/value
As more manufacturing jobs continue to return to the US, firms will need to learn or re(learn) how to best prepare and leverage their workforce to support the firm's overall strategic goals. This article provides managers with an intuitive conceptual framework for making those decisions.
Complementary effects of beneficial and non‐beneficial mycorrhizal fungi on root phosphatase activity: A mycorrhizal “White Album” effect
Authors: Steidinger Brian S. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Mycorrhizal fungi are diverse, with strains differing in the magnitude and types of benefits provided to their hosts. In mixture, mycorrhizal strains that have complementary functions could provide their hosts with greater benefits than any constituent strain in isolation. Conversely, mycorrhizal strains could also interfere with one another, competing for host resources, providing less benefits than the most beneficial strain. The actual, realized effects are likely a composite of these complementary and competitive effects.

Spatial structure in the root system may allow plants to benefit from complementary benefits while reducing competition among mycorrhizal strains. I tested the role of spatial structure using a species of plant from the family Podocarpaceae, which host arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi inside both finely separated nodules and longer, contiguous sections of fine root.

In root nodules, co‐inoculation with both growth‐promoting and non‐growth‐promoting arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi resulted in complementary increases in aggregate root/fungal phosphatase activity. This complementary effect was not present in longer, contiguous sections of fine root or in either root type with P‐fertilization.

I dub this interaction a ‘White Album effect’, a reference to the Beatles' best‐selling album, where complementary effects of single artists were only revealed when individual conflicts were avoided by separating band members and synthesizing their contributions in post‐production.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Weed management modifies functional properties of both weeds and microbial nitrogen‐cycling communities in Mediterranean vineyards
Authors: Bopp Marie‐Charlotte , De Deyn Gerlinde B. , Zwetsloot Marie J. , Moinet Gabriel Y. K. , Fried Guillaume , Metay Aurélie , Fromin Nathalie , Fort Florian , Buatois Bruno , Bastiaans Lammert , Kazakou Elena 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Nitrogen (N) availability is crucial to maintaining crop productivity in agroecosystems, driven primarily by soil microbial processes such as nitrification and denitrification. Weeds are an integral part of agroecosystems and are involved in many processes related to the N cycle, but how weed management could shift plant–microbe interactions, and thus, N‐cycling is yet to be determined.

Using a network of 15 Mediterranean vineyards, we quantified the effect of 5 years of different weed management practices (chemical weeding, tillage, mowing) on the above‐ground and below‐ground functional properties of weed communities and soil microbial N‐cycling.

Specific root length (SRL) of the tilled and mowed weed communities were 30% and 44% lower than in the herbicide‐treated weed communities.

Soil pH and texture were the main drivers of soil microbial activity as quantified by substrate‐induced respiration (SIR), potential denitrifying enzyme activities to SIR ratio (PDEA:SIR) and potential nitrifying and denitrifying enzyme activity ratio (PNEA:PDEA).

SIR was also impacted by the management: Mowed weed communities had 58% higher SIR compared to herbicide‐treated communities. Weed communities with high SRL were associated with soils with a higher nitrifying enzyme efficiency per unit of respired carbon.

Synthesis and applications. Overall, our findings indicate that vineyard weed management influences the potential nitrifying enzyme activities by modifying the root strategies of weed communities. This study highlights that the design of sustainable weed management strategies should incorporate unintended effects on soil microbial communities and N‐cycling.
Herbivory resistance in dwarf shrubs combines with simulated warming to shift phenology and decrease reproduction
Authors: Gillespie Mark A. K. , Hegland Stein Joar 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Research focus on the phenology of plants has accompanied current trends in climate warming, because the two are inextricably linked. Warmer temperatures have led to advanced plant phenology in a range of systems, although some responses are species specific. However, other stressors, such as herbivory, can delay or advance plant phenology, and few studies have addressed the combined impact of these drivers.

We experimentally warmed plots with open top chambers (OTCs) and simulated herbivory resistance to insect outbreaks with methyl jasmonate (MeJA), along an elevational climatic gradient. We then recorded vegetative and reproductive phenology in two functionally important dwarf shrubs, the deciduous Vaccinium myrtillus (bilberry) and the evergreen V. vitis‐idaea (lingonberry), to test the responses to the combined treatments. Based on earlier findings, we expected larger phenological responses at higher elevations and for bilberry.

We found that in the year after MeJA application, both bilberry and lingonberry delayed vegetative and reproductive phenology, although responses were stronger in bilberry. Warming with OTCs weakly advanced phenology in both species, but combined effects were not consistent.

We further examined the consequences of this altered phenology on reproductive output with multigroup piecewise structural equation modelling and found that herbivory resistance driven changes to phenology had a strong mediating effect on berry numbers, particularly under warmed conditions and mainly in the year after MeJA application.

Synthesis. These results demonstrate the need to consider combined pressures in understanding the impacts of global change on plants and highlight that multiple drivers may have unidentified synergetic effects on species phenology and reproduction.
Gene Expression by a Model Fungus in the Ascomycota Provides Insight Into the Decay of Fungal Necromass
Authors: Haq Irshad Ul , Kennedy Peter , Schreiner Kathryn M. , Agnich Julia C. , Schilling Jonathan S. 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTDead fungal cells, known as necromass, are increasingly recognised as significant contributors to long‐term soil carbon pools, yet the genes involved in necromass decomposition are poorly understood. In particular, how microorganisms degrade necromass with differing initial cell wall chemical compositions using carbohydrate‐active enzymes (CAZymes) has not been well studied. Based on the frequent occurrence and high abundance of the fungal genus Trichoderma on decaying fungal necromass in situ, we grew Trichoderma reesei RUT‐C30 on low and high melanin necromass of Hyaloscypha bicolor (Ascomycota) in liquid cultures and assessed T. reesei gene expression relative to each other and relative to glucose. Transcriptome data revealed that T. reesei up‐regulated many genes (over 100; necromass versus glucose substrate) coding for CAZymes, including enzymes that would target individual layers of an Ascomycota fungal cell wall. We also observed differential expression of protease‐ and laccase‐encoding genes on high versus low melanin necromass, highlighting a subset of genes (fewer than 15) possibly linked to the deconstruction of melanin, a cell wall constituent that limits necromass decay rates in nature. Collectively, these results advance our understanding of the genomic traits underpinning the rates and fates of carbon turnover in an understudied pool of Earth's belowground carbon, fungal necromass.
The concept of the strategic state: An assessment after 30 years
Authors: Elliott Ian C. , Roberts Alasdair 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe strategic state was conceptualised 30 years ago in response to neoliberal reforms of government and the rise of New Public Management that began in Western democracies in the 1980s. The concept was widely used by the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development in assessing the performance of governments through the 2000s. This research note describes how the concept has evolved, lessons learned from the application of the concept over the last 20 years, and some new developments that affirm the continuing relevance of the concept but also make its practical application more challenging.Points for practitioners
The strategic state is a well‐established concept of long‐term, outcomes‐based government. It is pertinent to contemporary debates around mission‐driven government and wellbeing approaches to government.
The strategic state requires long‐term and sustained investment in strategic capabilities, in part to mitigate against electoral pressures.
Secondly, it requires a connection from strategy to action through clear accountability processes for both individuals and organisations including appropriate budgeting and evaluation mechanisms.
Thirdly, a successful strategic state requires effective collaboration between different levels of government. This can be supported through a relational approach to public service design and delivery.
Challenges to the strategic state include increased turbulence from political events, economic crises, the climate emergency, and the rise of artificial intelligence; the erosion of public trust in government and social cohesion combined with the rise of populist movements; and a decay in the media environment with increasing public alienation and polarisation in political debate.
Factors Contributing to Uptake of Stillbirth Evaluations: A Qualitative Analysis
Authors: Riches Naomi O. , Workalemahu Tsegaselassie , Johnson Erin P. , Lopez Sarah , Blue Nathan , Page Jessica , Silver Robert M. , Rothwell Erin 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to explore individuals' beliefs, values, and experiences surrounding stillbirth evaluation decisions.DesignQualitative research.SettingUniversity of Utah Health.PopulationParents who experienced a stillbirth in the past 5 years (n = 19) were interviewed about their experiences and decision to consent to or decline stillbirth evaluations, such as autopsy, placental histopathology, or genetic testing.MethodsQualitative content analysis.Main Outcome MeasuresBarriers and facilitators to parentsstillbirth postmortem decision‐making.ResultsParticipants communicated several facilitators and barriers that contributed to their stillbirth evaluation decision. Reasons for consenting to evaluations were belief in science, background in medicine, altruism, to inform future pregnancies, thinking about preventing another stillbirth, and how patients viewed the care of their stillborn by the medical team. Reasons for declining evaluations were receiving a diagnosis prior to being offered a postmortem evaluation, intent to avoid causing further harm to the baby, interest to spend more time with their baby, and cost of the evaluation.ConclusionStillbirth is one of the most difficult experiences of a parent. Diagnostic and emotional barriers create further challenges to decision‐making for stillbirth postmortem evaluations. Parents often rely on inadequate information and personal values and beliefs during this time‐sensitive decision process. Decision support for stillbirth evaluations and training for medical providers could benefit parents, may increase stillbirth evaluation uptake, and potentially prevent decisional regret.FundingResearch reported in this publication was supported by the Utah Centre for Excellence in ELSI Research (UCEER).
Acetate Shock Loads Enhance CO Uptake Rates of Anaerobic Microbiomes
Authors: Robazza Alberto , Raya i Garcia Ada , Baleeiro Flávio C. F. , Kleinsteuber Sabine , Neumann Anke 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTPyrolysis of lignocellulosic biomass commonly produces syngas, a mixture of gases such as CO, CO2 and H2, as well as an aqueous solution generally rich in organic acids such as acetate. In this study, we evaluated the impact of increasing acetate shock loads during syngas co‐fermentation with anaerobic microbiomes at different pH levels (6.7 and 5.5) and temperatures (37°C and 55°C) by assessing substrates consumption, metabolites production and microbial community composition. The anaerobic microbiomes revealed to be remarkably resilient and were capable of converting syngas even at high acetate concentrations of up to 64 g/L and pH 5.5. Modifying process parameters and acetate loads resulted in a shift of the product spectrum and microbiota composition. Specifically, a pH of 6.7 promoted methanogens such as Methanosarcina, whereas lowering the pH to 5.5 with lower acetate loads promoted the enrichment of syntrophic acetate oxidisers such as Syntrophaceticus, alongside hydrogenotrophic methanogens. Increasing acetate loads intensified the toxicity of undissociated acetic acid, thereby inhibiting methanogenic activity. Under non‐methanogenic conditions, high acetate concentrations suppressed acetogenesis in favour of hydrogenogenesis and the production of various carboxylates, including valerate, with product profiles and production rates being contingent upon temperature. A possible candidate for valerate production was identified in Oscillibacter. Across all tested conditions, acetate supplementation provided additional carbon and energy to the mixed cultures and consistently increased carboxydotrophic conversion rates up to about 20‐fold observed at pH 5.5, 55°C and 48 g/L acetate compared to control experiments. Species of Methanobacterium, Methanosarcina and Methanothermobacter may have been involved in CO biomethanation. Under non‐methanogenic conditions, the bacterial species responsible for CO conversion remain unclear. These results offer promise for integrating process streams, such as syngas and wastewater, as substrates for mixed culture fermentation allowing for enhanced resource circularity, mitigation of environmental impacts and decreased dependence on fossil fuels.
The National Security State and the Tech City: Social Structures of Militarisation in Seattle's Long Cold War
Authors: Meulbroek Chris , Glassman Jim 
Published: December 2024

AbstractIntegration between the American state and technology capital has deep roots in the military‐industrial complex that has structured the US geopolitical economy since World War II. This article makes the case for understanding the urban‐regional dimensions of technology capital in terms of a transformation of, rather than as a departure from, Cold War geopolitics. It introduces the concept of a social structure of militarisation to analyse the transition from military‐Keynesianism to tech‐oriented militarism, developing this concept through a case study of high‐tech firms in the Seattle region. Our analysis shows how the class dynamics that underpinned the growth of Seattle's “high‐tech” aerospace sector in the postwar period conditioned the subsequent growth of the information and biotechnology sectors. Like other tech cities, Seattle's economy remains a privileged site of technical and managerial labour within the extended US national security state.