bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Structural studies of β-glucosidase from the thermophilic bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticus
Authors: Sotiropoulou Anastasia I. , Hatzinikolaou Dimitris G. , Chrysina Evangelia D. 
Published: September 2024

β-Glucosidase from the thermophilic bacterium Caldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticus (Bgl1) has been denoted as having an attractive catalytic profile for various industrial applications. Bgl1 catalyses the final step of in the decomposition of cellulose, an unbranched glucose polymer that has attracted the attention of researchers in recent years as it is the most abundant renewable source of reduced carbon in the biosphere. With the aim of enhancing the thermostability of Bgl1 for a broad spectrum of biotechnological processes, it has been subjected to structural studies. Crystal structures of Bgl1 and its complex with glucose were determined at 1.47 and 1.95 Å resolution, respectively. Bgl1 is a member of glycosyl hydrolase family 1 (GH1 superfamily, EC 3.2.1.21) and the results showed that the 3D structure of Bgl1 follows the overall architecture of the GH1 family, with a classical (β/α)8 TIM-barrel fold. Comparisons of Bgl1 with sequence or structural homologues of β-glucosidase reveal quite similar structures but also unique structural features in Bgl1 with plausible functional roles.
Effect of Zn amount on AlZn-based composite material produced by high speed mechanical alloying method
Authors: Erturun Veysel , Ozbay Eyyup 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study is AlZn-based produced by high speed mechanical alloying method to investigate the effect of Zn amount on the composite material, Al-Zn-Mg-Cu-SiC composite material billets are obtained by sintering.

Design/methodology/approach
Mechanical alloying, X-ray diffraction analysis (XRD) graphics, sintering, polishing, scanning electron microscopy and energy dispersive X-ray analyzer (EDX) images and micro hardness tests were applied, respectively.

Findings
In the XRD analysis results, it was observed that the Al peak height decreased as the alloying time increased. When the samples sintered for 90 min are examined, it can be clearly seen that the hardness increases as the Zn ratio increases. EDX analysis results also support XRD results.

Originality/value
Increase in strength will require the use of thinner sheet metal and smaller rivets to achieve the same strength. This will reduce the weight of the aircraft. Weight reduction also means less fuel consumption and more economical flight. This increase in strength is a very important scientific achievement.
Microcredit via digital innovation platforms: its drivers and impact on fish farms' yield and income in Nigeria
Authors: Mukaila Ridwan 
Published: September 2024

PurposeFish farmers in Africa often operate on small-scale culture units, primarily due to poor access to funding and low technology adoption. Digital innovation platforms seek to enhance farmers’ access to finance, production and farmers’ income. However, there is a lack of empirical evidence to support these claims. Therefore, this study investigated the factors influencing fish farmers’ access to microcredit from digital innovation platforms and the impact of this microcredit on fish farms’ yield and income in Nigeria.Design/methodology/approachA mixed-methods approach was adopted, and data were gathered from 387 fish farmers through a well-structured questionnaire and focus group discussion. The data were analyzed using probit regression and instrumental variable two-stage least squares regression.FindingsThe results revealed that ownership of smartphones, awareness of digital agricultural innovation platforms, farmers’ education, income, fish farming as a primary occupation, cooperative society and extension contacts positively influenced farmers’ access to microcredit from digital innovation platforms. The age of farmers and household size negatively influenced their access to digital microcredit. Digital microcredit positively and significantly impacted fish farms’ yield and farmers’ income.Practical implicationsDigital microcredit significantly increased fish farm yield and income. Therefore, digital innovation platforms should be encouraged and promoted through the creation of awareness about their ability to solve inadequate financing in agriculture by agricultural extension agents.Originality/valueThis study contributes to our understanding of the influencing factors for farmers accessing digital microcredit and how digital microcredit enhances farm yield and income.
Retrospective analysis of the challenges and highlights of parenting two-year-old children who were subsequently recognised as autistic
Authors: Yanga Regina , Underwood Lisa , Schoeps Anja , Waldie Karen Elizabeth , Morton Susan M.B. , Peterson Elizabeth Ruth 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
This study retrospectively investigates the parenting experiences of mothers of two-year-old children who expressed concerns that their child may have autism up to when they were 4.5 years old. This study aims to identify early parenting challenges and joys and explore whether certain challenges are associated with a subsequent autism diagnosis.

Design/methodology/approach
Using a longitudinal design, this study draws from a cohort of 6,853 children, focusing on 103 mothers who reported concerns that their child may have autism when they were between 2 and 4.5 years old, compared to a demographically matched control group. It also tracks whether children initially flagged for autism concerns at 2 to 4.5 years had received a formal diagnosis by age eight.

Findings
Mothers of autistic children were more likely to mention early challenges with their child’s psychosocial development and family cohesion. However, the nature of the challenges discussed within these categories were similar across the two groups, suggesting that these two challenges, while important, are not definitive indicators of autism on their own. Many mothers highlighted their love and joy in watching their child develop. By age eight, 56% of the children who were flagged with autism concerns at aged 4.5 had an autism diagnosis, underscoring the importance of early concerns.

Originality/value
This novel research leverages a large, diverse longitudinal cohort to retrospectively explore mothers’ views on raising two-year-old children who were subsequently recognised as being autistic. It uniquely balances the exploration of parenting challenges with the highlights, offering a more holistic view of parenting a child who may later be diagnosed with autism, and considers the link between early parental concerns and challenges and subsequent autism diagnosis.
Mapping trade opportunities in Central and South Asia: an exploration through trade indices and metrics
Authors: Wani Nassir Ul Haq , Rasa Mohammad Mirwais 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
This study aims to explore the possibilities for regional (intra and inter) trade between Central Asia and South Asia (CASA) by examining several frameworks that impact the economic integration of these regions.

Design/methodology/approach
The study uses five indices, specifically the export diversification index, export survival rates, export sophistication, revealed comparative advantage and intra-industry trade index in South and Central Asia, from 2005 to 2021.

Findings
The findings show a twofold increase in the potential trade value between the two regions compared to the actual level. The intra-regional trade in Central Asia accounts for less than 5% of trade with all countries, whereas the intra-regional trade in South Asia accounts for 1.5%, and the inter-regional trade accounts for between 0.2 and 4% of total trade to all destinations. The intensity of trade measurements shows that inter-regional trade flows are modest because they make up a relatively small percentage of the entire trade volume, which includes all destinations, ranging from 0.2 to 4 %.

Research limitations/implications
These findings have a significant impact on the successful implementation of trading-related measures, initiatives and institutional mechanisms for encouraging improved trade between and within both regions.

Practical implications
Export diversification initiatives aim to provide favourable outcomes for all parties involved, focusing on expanding the range of goods and services exchanged. CASA countries with higher diversification have shown more favourable outcomes than those relying on a restricted range of products. The authors expect policies promoting a broader array of exports to boost market shares, while maintaining a narrow focus may hinder new export prospects. In addition, regional value chains and policy initiatives promoting trade and investment could lead to increased value additions to exports, technological transfers and job creation.

Social implications
The study emphasises the significance of trade-related policies, programmes and institutional mechanisms in promoting trade between CASA. It emphasises the need for policies that support investment and trade, adopt new requirements of the Agreement on Trade Facilitation and promote diversity and latency.

Originality/value
Based on economic analysis, the study offers practical insights and strategies for businesses in the CASA regions. It also provides analytical tools for academics and decision makers, as well as policy and programme recommendations for government agencies, development partners, researchers and individuals interested in trade dynamics in these regions.
The relativity of perspective: exploring the disconnect between Indigenous and Western paradigms of disaster risk perception
Authors: Magadza Tsitsi Trina , Coetzee Christo , Kruger Leandri 
Published: September 2024

PurposeThis article demonstrates how psycho-sociological concepts have a place in disaster risk sciences. It draws attention to the relationship between risk perception and disaster management from Western and traditional viewpoints.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is conceptual and draws from published works. The systematic literature review (SLR) methodology was adopted to analyse existing literature on the subject matter.FindingsRisk perception evolved over centuries and disciplines until it found applicability in modern times. Despite the proliferation of western science-based approaches to risk perception, Indigenous knowledge systems still hold sway over communities’ understanding of risk. These perspectives are enshrined in religious and cultural convictions that become the lenses through which a society assigns cause, effect and remedy to risk events. A deeper understanding of these convictions enables disaster risk management strategies to be better accepted by those at risk and to align with their lived realities.Originality/valueRisk perception becomes the lens through which we better understand the realities and complexities of populations at risk. Indigenous knowledge systems have a strong influence on society’s perception of risk and if they are not harnessed and studied, they will stand in conflict with Western approaches. Hence, the study of the nexus between risk perception and disaster management presents an opportunity for policymakers and practitioners to design risk management solutions that have a higher chance of acceptance and sustainability.
From passion to profit: the growth of Mambokadzi Bath and Body
Authors: Ndofirepi Takawira Munyaradzi , Mtisi Samson 
Published: September 2024

Learning outcomes
By the end of the lesson, students should be able to identify and think critically about common business problems and come up with possible solutions, explain how a business owner’s attributes can influence the business decisions they make, use available information to assess the viability and sustainability of a business model/strategy, determine the strengths and weaknesses of a particular marketing strategy and suggest ways to improve it and use the information provided to evaluate the risks and benefits of business growth strategies and determine their appropriateness for specified circumstances.

Case overview/synopsis
Mambokadzi is a small business with considerable potential in Zimbabwe’s beauty and personal care industry. The case study spans several years, highlighting Sharon Chingwaro’s journey as she navigates the difficulties of starting and growing a business with limited resources. The case study delves into various aspects of running a small business, such as production, marketing, distribution, human resources and intellectual property. It also discusses the value of resilience and endurance, as well as the need for resourcefulness when starting and growing a business under difficult circumstances. This case study is intended to teach entrepreneurship and marketing strategies to both under- and postgraduate students, with a particular emphasis on the difficulties of starting and growing a business in a limited-resource environment. It has applications in a variety of fields, including entrepreneurship, strategic management and marketing.

Complexity academic level
This case study is suitable for undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Supplementary materials
Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code
CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
The effect of essential skills on perceived employability: a case of Malaysian undergraduates in energy-focused universities
Authors: Mohamad Nurrahmani Madiah , Jaaffar Amar Hisham , Abd Majid Nurshahirah , Isa Aerni 
Published: September 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to examine the effect of technical skills, soft skills and social mobility skills on the perceived employability of Malaysian undergraduates in energy-focused universities. This study also aims to investigate the moderating effects of academic performance on such relationships.Design/methodology/approachTo accomplish these objectives, this study employed partial least squares-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to analyse data obtained from 247 Malaysian undergraduates from public and private energy-focused universities across Malaysia. The Human Capital Theory served as the overarching theoretical framework for the study.FindingsThe study reveals that even if an undergraduate has stellar grades, they will not help him/her to land a job if they lack basic technical and computing skills. This study also indicates that undergraduates’ current academic performance affects their perceived employability despite already possessing the necessary soft skills. Along with academic performance, social mobility skills can be a determining factor in how graduates see their own employability. This is because social mobility has a significant impact on graduates’ chances of finding gainful employment.Research limitations/implicationsThis study provides insights into how technical skills, soft skills and social mobility skills influence the perceived employability of Malaysian undergraduates, especially in energy-focused universities, and the role of various parties involved. These parties, such as higher education institutions, are the key players that can initiate strategies to enhance specific skills and steer a public conversation towards a more methodical strategy for boosting graduates’ employability for future employment. This research also sheds light on how to better prepare for emerging job opportunities in the energy sector.Originality/valueThe study examines the effect of technical skills, soft skills and social mobility skills on the perceived employability of Malaysian undergraduates in energy-focused universities for future employment among Malaysia’s universities’ graduates. By providing a multidisciplinary viewpoint, this study paves the way for future research partnerships among experts in higher education, researchers in related fields and career researchers.
To rule or not to rule? The policy process of the excise tax on sugar-sweetened beverages in Indonesia
Authors: Murwendah Murwendah , Salsabila Tasya Dinasari , Khozen Ismail 
Published: September 2024

PurposeThe rising incidence of non-communicable diseases and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) consumption in Indonesia is a concern to the central government. However, the excise tax policy proposal for SSBs, introduced by the Minister of Finance in a 2020 meeting with the Parliament, remains unapproved until 2023. This study analyzes the process and factors influencing stakeholders in managing the implementation of the excise tax policy on SSBs in Indonesia.Design/methodology/approachThis research is based on Kingdon’s Multiple Streams Theory (MST), focusing on the problem, policy and politics streams. It employs a qualitative design and combines a literature review and in-depth interviews in data collection. Interviews were conducted with policymakers, civil servants, senior representatives from nongovernmental health and consumer organizations, trade associations and academics in nutrition, health and taxation.FindingsWe identified that policy entrepreneurs have not succeeded in aligning the policy with the ideology of decision-makers and broader government goals. Therefore, the Parliament has not ratified the SSB excise tax policy until 2023. The effectiveness of interventions is expected to be the primary driver of policy adoption. Despite the complexity of this policy process, we conclude that implementing some reinforcing strategies may be necessary to facilitate policy change. In the Indonesian context, other actors who proactively manage potential criticism from multiple stakeholders are needed. The power of the Coordinating Ministry for Economic Affairs is expected to navigate political complexities and interests among stakeholders. Support for adopting the SSB excise tax policy will likely rise when framing policy alternatives aligns with decision-makers values, involves coordination between ministries, and has a broad public appeal.Originality/valueDespite the constitutional mandate to regulate levies through legislation, there is no research on policy processes in Indonesia, specifically regarding levies and taxes. Examining the Indonesian institutional context in which a policy process takes place may improve the understanding of the many components of MST under unique conditions, providing insights into the specific factors that drive policy change in certain cases.
Stability analysis of electrorheological (ER) lubricant operated multilobe hydrodynamic journal bearing
Authors: Narwat Kuldeep , Kumar Vivek , Singh Simran Jeet , Kumar Abhishek 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
An electrorheological (ER) fluid consists of dielectric particles blended in a nonconducting oil. ER lubricants are often considered smart lubricants. This paper aims to examine the steady state and dynamic response of multilobe journal bearings using an ER lubricant.

Design/methodology/approach
Reynold’s equation has been used to describe the lubricant flow in the journal-bearing clearance space. The Bingham model is used to characterize the nonlinear behavior of the lubricant. The solution of the Reynolds equation is obtained using the Newton–Raphson method, with gaseous cavitation in the fluid film numerically addressed by applying a mass-conserving algorithm. The effects of lobe geometry and the applied electric field are investigated on film pressure profile, fluid film thickness, direct stiffness and damping parameters. The equation of motion for journal center coordinates is solved using the fourth-order Runge–Kutta method, to predict journal center motion trajectories.

Findings
Using ER lubricant combined with two-lobe journal bearing significantly improved the minimum film thickness by 49.75%, the direct stiffness parameter by 132.18% and the damping parameter by 206.3%. However, the multilobe configuration was found to negatively impact the frictional powerloss of the bearing system. In the case of multilobe configurations of journal bearings using ER lubricant, linear motion journal trajectories are observed to be reduced and exhibit increased stability.

Originality/value
This study presents the effect of an ER lubricant and multilobe configuration on the rotor-dynamic performance and stability analysis of hydrodynamic journal bearings.

Peer review
The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-06-2024-0201/
Mobile money, stockouts and informal microenterprise performance: evidence from sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Nan Wenxiu , Peng Yuqi , Park Minseok , Li Tao 
Published: September 2024

PurposeThe extensive use of mobile money (MM) has been widely recognized as a digital engine of socioeconomic development in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). This paper aims to focus on the effects of MM use and stockouts on informal microenterprise performance and investigate whether MM use mitigates the relationship between stockouts and firm performance.Design/methodology/approachThis study utilizes firm-level data from the latest World Bank Informal Sector Enterprise Surveys across six SSA countries. We employ instrumental variable-adjusted and propensity score-weighted regressions to investigate the buffering effect of MM use.FindingsWe find a significantly positive effect of MM use and a significantly negative impact of stockouts on informal microenterprise performance. Importantly, we establish that MM use attenuates the negative impact of stockouts on firm performance. We further document that the attenuating effect of MM use is more profound for firms using MM for transactions with supply chain partners, located in communities with high MM use rates, and operating in the retail industry.Practical implicationsOur research generates important managerial and policy implications. Future policies should capitalize on MM to foster an effective financial ecosystem in which informal microenterprises can survive and grow, thereby deepening their contributions to sustainable development.Originality/valueWhereas the business benefits of MM among small, medium and large firms are well-documented, the role of MM use on informal microenterprise performance is less understood. This study fills the research gap in the literature by focusing on the influence of MM use on the relationships between informal microenterprise operations and performance.
Nudging manufacturing small and medium enterprises in developing communities to energy management: exploring the role of institutional pressure dimensions
Authors: Arinaitwe Alice , Tukamuhabwa Benjamin R. , Bagire Vincent , Nkurunziza Gideon , Nassuna Agnes 
Published: September 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate whether all the dimensions of institutional pressures matter for energy management (EM) of manufacturing small and medium enterprises using evidence from Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach
This study used a cross-sectional design using evidence from 195 manufacturing small and medium enterprises in Uganda. The study was conducted by administering a questionnaire to obtain quantitative data which were analyzed using Smart Partial Least Square Structural Equation Modeling.

Findings
The findings revealed that two dimensions of institutional pressures (coercive and mimetic) positively and significantly predict EM, unlike normative pressures. Notable is that coercive pressures contribute more to EM than mimetic pressures.

Research limitations/implications
This study uses a quantitative design; thus, future studies through interviews would offer more knowledge on EM. The government should reinforce regulations to achieve sustainable energy for all communities. Additionally, governments and industry associations should pay attention to the critical pressures (coercive and mimetic) to step up EM. Moreso, enterprise managers should comprehend government regulations and peers’ actions for effective EM.

Originality/value
This study contributes to EM literature by using institutional theory to examine the contribution of individual dimensions of institutional pressures to EM from the context.