bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessment of bus fleet service quality: a graph theoretical approach
Authors: James Ajith Tom 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a framework for the assessment of service quality of bus fleet services based on the service quality influencing factors. The paper also tries to evolve a quantitative measure for fleet service quality in the form of a fleet service quality index.Design/methodology/approachA graph theoretical approach is employed in this paper for bus fleet service quality assessment. Modelling of fleet service quality factors and their interrelations with due attention towards their structure is achieved through graph theory. A directed graph (digraph) of the service quality is developed, where its nodes represent factors influencing the quality while its edges show the degree of interrelationships. A matrix, which is equivalent to the digraph, is established that will generate a service quality function that will result in the development of a fleet service quality index (FSQI).FindingsAttaining customer satisfaction through assurance of quality is the cornerstone of the existence and survival of any business organization, and bus fleet services are no exception to this. Several influential factors are there for the bus fleet service quality. This research paper has identified factors such as fleet management practices, operational characteristics, safety and reliability features, travel comfort, bus maintenance and environmental concerns that affect fleet service quality. Every factor is composed of distinct sub-factors. Furthermore, these factors are linked with one another. A higher value of the fleet service quality index indicates the adequate performance of the bus fleet service organization.Practical implicationsThe methodology is useful for not only evaluating but also for comparison of service quality of different fleet agencies or organizations. The perceptions would be useful to the fleet service managers to create procedures and arrangements for improving the service quality.Originality/valueThe paper identifies various service quality factors of the bus fleet and an evaluation scheme for those factors has been developed. Based on these, a framework had been developed for the assessment of the service quality of different fleet service providers.
Effect of Chinese consumer characteristics on the attitude of AI-curated fashion service and the purchase intention of fashion products
Authors: Shin Eunjung , Yang Heesoon 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis study aims to understand the acceptance of AI-curated fashion services among Chinese consumers by introducing consumer characteristics, such as fashion clothing involvement (FCI) and technological innovativeness (TI), as leading variables of the technology acceptance model (TAM). Furthermore, it aims to examine the impact of FCI and TI on attitudes towards AI-curated fashion services and the purchase intention of fashion products through perceived usefulness (PU), perceived ease of use (PEU), and perceived enjoyment (PE). Through this analysis, this study seeks to determine a marketing strategy that can support implementing AI-curated fashion services in the Chinese market.Design/methodology/approachThis study used structural equation modeling to ascertain the results.FindingsRegarding AI-curated fashion services' attributes, the analysis revealed that consumers' FCI did not significantly affect the PU and PE. However, FCI greatly impacted the PEU. In addition, consumers' interests in TI significantly affected PU and PE but did not significantly influence PEU, although PEU significantly affected PU. PU, PEU, and PE greatly impacted usage attitude. PU and usage attitude significantly affected purchase intention, whereas PE had no effect.Originality/valueThrough a practical survey of Chinese consumers, we investigated the impact of FCI and TI on the attitude and purchase intention of fashion products recommended by AI-curated fashion services.
A roadmap towards implementing health technology assessment in Oman
Authors: Al Rashdi Ibrahim , Al Balushi Sara , Al Shuaili Alia , Al Rashdi Said , Ibrahim Al Bulushi Nadiya , Ibrahim Al Kindi Asiya , Al Salmi Qasem , Al Sabti Hilal , Korra Nada , Abaza Sherif , Fasseeh Ahmad Nader , Kaló Zoltán 
Published: July 2024

PurposeHealth technologies are advancing rapidly and becoming more expensive, posing a challenge for financing healthcare systems. Health technology assessment (HTA) improves the efficiency of resource allocation by facilitating evidence-informed decisions on the value of health technologies. Our study aims to create a customized HTA roadmap for Oman based on a gap analysis between the current and future status of HTA implementation.Design/methodology/approachWe surveyed participants of an advanced HTA training program to assess the current state of HTA implementation in Oman and explore long-term goals. A list of draft recommendations was developed in areas with room for improvement. The list was then validated for its feasibility in a round table discussion with senior health policy experts to conclude on specific actions for HTA implementation.FindingsSurvey results aligned well with expert discussions. The round table discussion concluded with a phasic action plan for HTA implementation. In the short term (1–2 years), efforts will focus on building capacity through training programs. For medium-term actions (3–5 years), plans include expanding the HTA unit and introducing multiple cost-effectiveness thresholds while from 6–10 years, publishing of HTA recommendations, critical appraisal reports, and timelines is recommended.Originality/valueAlthough the HTA system in Oman is still in its early stages, strong initiatives are being taken for its advancement. This structured approach ensures a comprehensive integration of HTA into the healthcare system, enhancing decision-making and promoting a sustainable, evidence-based system addressing the population’s needs.
Financial data modeling: an analysis of factors influencing big data analytics-driven financial decision quality
Authors: Al-Okaily Manaf , Al-Okaily Aws 
Published: July 2024

Purpose
Financial firms are looking for better ways to harness the power of data analytics to improve their decision quality in the financial modeling era. This study aims to explore key factors influencing big data analytics-driven financial decision quality which has been given scant attention in the relevant literature.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors empirically examined the interrelations between five factors including technology capability, data capability, information quality, data-driven insights and financial decision quality drawing on quantitative data collected from Jordanian financial firms using a cross-sectional questionnaire survey.

Findings
The SmartPLS analysis outcomes revealed that both technology capability and data capability have a positive and direct influence on information quality and data-driven insights without any direct influence on financial decision quality. The findings also point to the importance and influence of information quality and data-driven insights on high-quality financial decisions.

Originality/value
The study for the first time enriches the knowledge and relevant literature by exploring the critical factors affecting big data-driven financial decision quality in the financial modeling context.
Potential exit strategies of entrepreneurs operating micro and small family businesses and non-family businesses in Poland
Authors: Koładkiewicz Izabela , Wojtyra-Perlejewska Marta 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis study investigates whether a firm’s character as a mature micro and small family or non-family business may impact the managing owner’s choice of a potential exit strategy.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical evidence was provided through a sample of 302 entrepreneurs (170 respond-ents from mature micro and small family businesses and 132 from non-family businesses) who participated in a survey on potential exit strategies.FindingsThe primary finding indicates that there is no significant difference in exit strategy preferences between family and non-family entrepreneurs from mature micro and small-sized firms. It was found that both groups of entrepreneurs mostly opt for internal succession.Originality/valueThis paper presents a novel perspective, demonstrating that while non-family firms are not typically anticipated to adopt the same exit strategies as family firms, they may still opt for internal succession. Furthermore, we provide an insight into potential exit strategy decisions made in smaller firms, which have been less frequently analyzed compared to larger firms in the field of entrepreneurial exit.
Choice architecture techniques: developing a comprehensive taxonomy to test applicability in business relationships
Authors: Münscher Robert 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis paper develops an evidence-based conceptual framework for exploring the applicability of choice architecture in business relationships.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical studies of choice architecture in various fields are systematically reviewed to identify choice architecture techniques; major resulting categories of techniques are then discussed for applicability to business relationship contexts, and avenues for research are outlined.FindingsManagerial decision-making is potentially influenced by changes to choice contexts that (1 provide additional information from outside the choice context, (2) facilitate a particular way of comparing options, (3) present options in new ways, (4) rework the choice set, e.g. by adding options and (5) create internal states that push toward a target choice.Originality/valueThe paper introduces the concept of choice architecture to business relationships. It develops a taxonomy of choice architecture techniques to guide the exploration of choice architecture effects in business relationships.
Exploring the Nordic numbers: an analysis of price clustering in Scandinavian stocks
Authors: Lobão Júlio , Pacheco Luís , Carvalho Daniel 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThis paper investigates share price clustering and its determinants across Nasdaq Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Iceland.Design/methodology/approachThis paper investigates share price clustering and its determinants across Nasdaq Stockholm, Copenhagen, Helsinki, and Iceland. Univariate analysis confirms widespread clustering, notably favouring closing prices ending in zero. Multivariate analysis explores the impact of firm size, price level, volatility, and turnover on clustering.FindingsUnivariate analysis confirms widespread clustering, notably favouring closing prices ending in zero. Multivariate analysis explores the impact of firm size, price level, volatility, and turnover on clustering. Results reveal pervasive clustering, strengthening with higher prices and turnover but weakening with larger trade volumes, firm size, and smaller tick sizes. These empirical findings support the theoretical expectations of price negotiation and resolution hypotheses.Practical implicationsThe observed clustering presents an opportunity for investors to potentially capitalize on this market anomaly and achieve supra-normal returns.Originality/valuePrice clustering, the phenomenon where certain price levels are traded more frequently, challenges the efficient market hypothesis and has been extensively studied in financial markets. However, the Scandinavian stock markets, particularly those in the Nasdaq Nordic Exchange, remain unexplored in this context.
Experimental analysis of failure behaviour of PA12 specimens manufactured by SLS as a function of wall thickness and build direction
Authors: Garcia Rodriguez Alejandro , Velasco Peña Marco Antonio , Narváez-Tovar Carlos A. , Espejo Mora Edgar 
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate and explain the dual fracture behaviour of PA12 specimens sintered by selective laser sintering (SLS) as a function of wall thickness and build direction with a powder mixture 30:70. To achieve this objective, research related to chemical, thermal and structural behaviours as a function of the input variables was carried out to describe and explain why ductile-fragile behaviour occurs during fractures under uniaxial tension manufactured via a methodology of material analysis and manufacturing processes.

Design/methodology/approach
The factorial design 32 relates the fracture of PA12 tensile specimens to the horizontal, transverse and vertical build directions at 2.0, 2.5 and 3.0 mm thicknesses, respectively. Fractographic images revealed the fracture surfaces and their dual ductile-fragile behaviour related to the specimens’ measured crystalline, thermal, surface and chemical properties.

Findings
The study showed that thermal property variables differ depending on the input variables. The wall thickness variable affected this morphology the most, showing the highest percentage of the ductile area, followed by the transverse and vertical directions. It was determined that the failure in the vertical direction is due to crystalline gradients associated with the layer-by-layer construction process. The pore density may be closely related to generating ductile and brittle areas.

Originality/value
In this paper, fracture characterisation is performed based on the mechanical, chemical, structural, thermal and morphological properties of PA12 manufactured by SLS. In addition, a heatmap of porosities in cross-sections is constructed using a machine learning model (k-means) related to dual fracture behaviour. This research revealed significant differences in the fracture type according to the build direction. In addition, thin-section fractography provides a more detailed explanation of the fragile behaviour of the vertical direction associated with crystalline changes due to the direction of the sintering layers.
Trends, shifts and future prospects of sustainable finance research: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ayaz Gohar , Zahid Muhammad 
Published: July 2024

Purpose
This study aims to highlight the key aspects of sustainable finance using bibliometric analysis of the relevant literature extracted from two separate databases, Scopus and Dimensions.ai. The present study contributes towards the achievement of sustainable development by providing directions to align financial decision-making with different sustainability aspects.

Design/methodology/approach
The author conducted bibliometric analysis for 1,220 articles from Scopus and 1,437 publications from Dimensions.ai. The most frequently occurring terms in sustainable finance research are explored and visualised using the VOSviewer.

Findings
Bibliometric findings revealed a dynamic evolution of research focus over time. The social component dominated from 2012 to 2016, however a shift to environmental and climate change considerations is noticed from 2016 to 2020. Recent studies (2020–2022) exhibited heightened attention to green finance and renewable energy. Overlay visualisations highlighted similar trends in both databases, indicating a contemporary emphasis on green finance.

Research limitations/implications
This study enriches theoretical discourse by mapping the trajectory of sustainable finance research, contributing to a deeper understanding of its evolution.

Practical implications
Insights from this study guide researchers and practitioners in identifying trends, that can help the integration of green finance principles into corporate strategies.

Social implications
Findings also raise awareness among stakeholders, and help facilitate socially responsible corporate cultures and informed policymaking.

Originality/value
The originality of this study lies in its comprehensive bibliometric analysis of sustainable finance research in management studies, drawing data from two major databases and spanning over three decades.
Where we are: reflecting on our use of critical mapping practices for spatial justice in teacher education
Authors: Monreal Timothy , Deroo Matthew R. , Pitts Brianne 
Published: July 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this article is for three teacher educators to reflect on their use of mapping and mapping-adjacent activities in university courses vis-à-vis the development of their own critical praxis toward spatial justice. The authors focus on how the centering of geospatial literacies through spatial justice issues impacts the development of criticality for preservice teachers and their teacher educators.Design/methodology/approachThe paper opted for collaborative reflections about our teacher educator praxis through self-study and critical friends. Three teacher educators wrote vignettes about their experiences with place-based mapping approaches in teacher education coursework.FindingsThe paper suggests that mapping activities (broadly defined) create space(s) for courageous conversations on difficult topics (e.g. race and social-economic status). These spaces are not only between teacher and student but also can be extended to teacher educators by focusing on critical and collaborative self-study.Research limitations/implicationsBecause of the chosen research approach, the research results may lack generalizability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to use critical and collaborative reflection to inform their own praxis.Practical implicationsThe paper shares pedagogical approaches and reflections for highlighting geospatial literacies and critical place consciousness within teacher education.Originality/valueThis has significance as there is a relative dearth of literature detailing how critical teacher educators can learn with and from each other when working to focus place-based learning in the context of teacher preparation.
Environmental control and metabolic strategies of organic‐matter‐responsive bacterioplankton in the Weddell Sea (Antarctica)
Authors: Piontek Judith , Hassenrück Christiane , Zäncker Birthe , Jürgens Klaus 
Published: July 2024

AbstractHeterotrophic microbial communities play a significant role in driving carbon fluxes in marine ecosystems. Despite their importance, these communities remain understudied in remote polar oceans, which are known for their substantial contribution to the biological drawdown of atmospheric carbon dioxide. Our research focused on understanding the environmental factors and genetic makeup of key bacterial players involved in carbon remineralization in the Weddell Sea, including its coastal polynyas. Our experiments demonstrated that the combination of labile organic matter supply and temperature increase synergistically boosted bacterial growth. This suggests that, besides low seawater temperature, carbon limitation also hinders heterotrophic bacterial activity. Through the analysis of metagenome‐assembled genomes, we discovered distinct genomic adaptation strategies in Bacteroidia and Gammaproteobacteria, both of which respond to organic matter. Both natural phytoplankton blooms and experimental addition of organic matter favoured Bacteroidia, which possess a large number of gene copies and a wide range of functional membrane transporters, glycoside hydrolases, and aminopeptidases. In contrast, the genomes of organic‐matter‐responsive Gammaproteobacteria were characterized by high densities of transcriptional regulators and transporters. Our findings suggest that bacterioplankton in the Weddell Sea, which respond to organic matter, employ metabolic strategies similar to those of their counterparts in temperate oceans. These strategies enable efficient growth at extremely low seawater temperatures, provided that organic carbon limitation is alleviated.
INSURGENT CO‐PRODUCTION: Conflict, Cooperation and the Dialectics of Scale in Thailand's Baan Mankong Program
Authors: Shelby Hayden 
Published: July 2024

AbstractThis article examines the role of insurgency in scaling up the co‐production of housing. Co‐production has gained in popularity in the past 15 years as both a set of practices and an intellectual framing for analyzing urbanization in the global South. Discussions of co‐production have largely emphasized the cooperative nature of the approach, asserting that a mostly non‐confrontational politics has proven effective at reshaping urban governance in ways that better meet the needs of the urban poor. However, recent analyses have identified conflict versus confrontation as a key tension in co‐production, especially as co‐productive programs seek to go to scale. I contribute to these discussions by analyzing a well‐known case of large‐scale co‐production, Thailand's Baan Mankong program, to understand the roles of insurgent versus cooperative community networks in the program's trajectory. I conclude that a more insurgent network opens up new land, resources and avenues for political participation. A more cooperative network then renders many of these interventions broadly politically acceptable to those in power. The two networks thus exist in a dialectic that has enabled the program's scaling up. I argue that research into co‐production should pay more attention to the importance of confrontational tactics by community networks.
Russia's invasion of Ukraine and perceived intergenerational mobility in Europe
Authors: Gugushvili Alexi , Präg Patrick 
Published: July 2024

AbstractIn this study, we shed light on the social consequences the Russian invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has had in other European countries. We argue that positive perceptions of one's intergenerational mobility are linked with political and economic stability and that the war can thus be expected to impact intergenerational mobility perceptions. We test our pre‐registered hypothesis with representative survey data from three European countries, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Sweden, which were significantly affected by the ongoing war. Our results show that individuals' war‐related concerns in all countries are divided into proximal and distal concerns. In turn, proximal concerns go along with greater perceived downward and less perceived upward mobility in the United Kingdom and Germany. We interpret these findings by calling for expanding the horizons of intergenerational mobility research by incorporating areas of life other than socio‐economic position.
Institutional dual holdings and expected crash risk: Evidence from mergers between lenders and equity holders
Authors: Li Bing , Liu Zhenbin , Pittman Jeffrey , Yang Shijie 
Published: July 2024

AbstractExploiting mergers between lenders and shareholders of the same firm as an exogenous shock to shareholder–creditor conflicts, we examine the causal effect of these conflicts on firms' ex ante expected stock price crash risk evident in the options implied volatility smirk. The decrease in conflicts of interest between lenders and shareholders induces dual holders to encourage the disclosure of more information to alleviate costly information asymmetry with other investors and better execute their oversight role in constraining managers' bad news suppression. Consistent with expectations, we find that a firm's ex ante expected crash risk declines after a shareholder–creditor merger. We also report strong, robust evidence that the negative impact of mergers on firms' expected crash risk increases when institutional investors or lenders have a greater stake in the treatment firms or when shareholder–creditor conflicts are apt to be exacerbated. Additionally, we document that firms issue management earnings forecasts (especially bad news forecasts) more frequently after these mergers. Finally, we find that expected crash risk decreases more after mergers in firms suffering worse information asymmetry and with weak monitoring mechanisms. Our evidence suggests that option market participants value the dual holder's role in deterring managers' bad news hoarding.