bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Defying the odds? Multiple disadvantage as a source of entrepreneurial action
Authors: Hussain Sundas , Vershinina Natalia , Carey Charlotte 
Published: May 2024

Purpose The link between entrepreneurial intention and positive attitudes towards entrepreneurship for established and nascent entrepreneurs has been well documented in the extant literature, with the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) viewing entrepreneurial intention as a pre-requisite for entrepreneurial pursuit. Whilst scholars generally agree on these insights, little empirical evidence exists on how marginalised social groups can convert their intentions into action. This study aims to understand to what extent the elements of TPB, the attitudes towards entrepreneurship, self-efficacy and subjective norms, help explain the emergence of entrepreneurial activity amongst marginalised demographic groups.Design/methodology/approach This research focuses on unemployed women residing in social housing located in a deprived urban area of the United Kingdom to empirically examine how multiple layers of disadvantage faced by this group shape their motivations and intentions for entrepreneurial pursuit. A multi-source qualitative methodology was adopted, drawing upon inductive storytelling narratives and extensive fieldwork on a sample of unemployed ethnic minority women residing in social housing in a deprived urban area of the United Kingdom. Community organisation representatives and housing association employees within the social housing system were included to assess the interpretive capacity of TPB.Findings The findings display that TPB illuminates why and how marginalised groups engage in entrepreneurship. Critically, women’s entrepreneurial intentions emerge as a result of their experiences of multiple layers of disadvantage, their positionality and the specificity of few resources they can activate from their disadvantageous position for entrepreneurial activity.Originality/value By illuminating the linkages between marginalised women’s positionality and their associated access to the limited pool of resources using the TPB lens, this study contributes to emerging works on disadvantaged populations and entrepreneurial intention-action debate. This work posits that despite facing significant additional challenges through their positionality and reduced ability to mobilise resources, women in social housing can defy the odds and develop ways to overcome limited capacity and structural disadvantage.
Bayesian network methodology and machine learning approach: an application on the impact of digital technologies on logistics service quality
Authors: Maleki Vishkaei Behzad , De Giovanni Pietro 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis paper aims to use Bayesian network (BN) methodology complemented by machine learning (ML) and what-if analysis to investigate the impact of digital technologies (DT) on logistics service quality (LSQ), employing the service quality (SERVQUAL) framework.Design/methodology/approachUsing a sample of 244 Italian firms, this study estimates the probability distributions associated with both DT and SERVQUAL logistics, as well as their interrelationships. Additionally, BN technique enables the application of ML techniques to uncover hidden relationships, as well as a series of what-if analyses to extract more knowledge.FindingsThe results show that the average probability of firms investing in DT for analytics (DTA) is higher than that of investing inDT for immersive experiences (DTIE). Furthermore, adopting both offers only a moderate likelihood of successfully implementing SERVQUAL logistics. Additionally, certain technologies may not directly influence some SERVQUAL dimensions. The application of ML reveals hidden relationships among technologies, enhancing the predictions of SERVQUAL logistics. Finally, what-if analyses provide further insights to guide decision-making processes aimed at enhancing SERVQUAL logistics dimensions through DTA and DTIE.Originality/valueThis research delves into the influence of DTIE and DTA on SERVQUAL logistics, thereby filling a gap in the existing literature in which no study has explored the intricate relationships between these technologies and SERVQUAL dimensions. Methodologically, we pioneer the integration of BN with ML techniques and what-if analysis, thus exploring innovative techniques to be used in logistics and supply-chain studies.
Information technology investment and rural bank performance in Ghana: the moderating role of ICT diffusion and financial development
Authors: Annor Louis David Junior , Agyapong Elvis Kwame , Robaina Margarita , Vieira Elisabete , Anarfo Ebenezer Bugri 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis study sought to examine the interaction between rural bank performance, information and communication technology (ICT) investment, ICT diffusion and financial development.Design/methodology/approachData were sourced from the Association of Rural Banks (ARB) Apex and World Development Indicators (WDI) for the period 2014–2020. A total of 122 rural banks were used for this study. The study adopted the two-step system generalized method of moments (SGMM) estimation technique in assessing the interactions among variables.FindingsThis study found compelling evidence to support the positive effect of ICT investment on banks’ performance (return on asset and net interest margin). Further, ICT diffusion and financial development positively influence banks’ performance. The results show a positive moderating effect exerted by ICT diffusion and financial development on the impact of bank risk (bank stability) and ICT investment on all three performance measures.Originality/valueThe study focuses on the rural banking sector in the Ghanaian economy, compared to related studies that examine the subject matter for commercial banks. The moderating effects of ICT diffusion and financial development are assessed to guide policy on rural banking development in Ghana.
Balancing work and family when family is work: a reconceptualization of work–family integration, burnout and detachment in family business
Authors: Blumentritt Timothy , Randolph Robert , Marchisio Gaia 
Published: May 2024

PurposeBuilding from calls for greater interdisciplinary research in interpreting family business phenomena, we integrate research on work–family conflict, detachment and burnout from both organizational and family studies. Using the characteristic work–family integration of family business settings as a backdrop we develop theoretical arguments that emphasize the reconciliatory role of interdisciplinary perspectives to explain the ostensibly contradictory findings in extant research. The diminishing barriers separating work and life spheres occurring in most global industries illustrate the importance of conceiving the study of work–life phenomena through recursive, rather than linear, logics and emphasizing the relevance of family business research in providing a contextual foundation for interdisciplinary discussions.Design/methodology/approachThis theoretical paper integrates perspectives from the literatures on organizational behavior and family systems theory to form six propositions on the relationship between work–life integration and the antecedents and consequences of burnout and psychological detachment.FindingsThis paper explores the nuances that overlapping work and family roles might be a source of both harmony and discord in family firms. In doing so, our research contributes to the growing relationship between family systems theory and family business research, and creates the foundation for future empirical studies on the psychological dynamics that underlie work–family integration.Originality/valueThis research advances a novel perspective on the interactions between work–family integration and burnout and detachment, and does so by noting that the way the family business literature treats work–family integration may apply to any employee that experiences tension between these different spheres of their identity.
Evolutionary game analysis on cross-border cooperative R&D of intelligent new energy vehicle industry
Authors: Tang Jinhuan , Wu Qiong , Wang Kun 
Published: May 2024

PurposeIntelligent new energy vehicles (INEVs) are becoming the competitive hotspot for the automobile industry. The major purpose of this study is to determine how to increase innovation efficiency through knowledge sharing and technology spill between new energy vehicle (NEV) enterprises and technology enterprises. This will help to improve the core competence of the automobile industry in China. Also, it serves as a guide for the growth of other strategic.Design/methodology/approachThe authors construct a tripartite evolutionary game model to study the cross-border cooperative innovation problem. Firstly, the payment matrix of NEV enterprise, technology enterprise and government is established, and the expected revenue of each participant is determined. Then, the replication dynamic equations and evolutionary stability strategies are analyzed. Finally, the theoretical research is validated through numerical simulation.FindingsResults showed that: (1) An optimal range of revenue distribution coefficient exists in the cross-border cooperation. (2) Factors like research and development (R&D) success rate, subsidies, resource and technology complementarity, and vehicles intelligence positively influence the evolution towards cooperative strategies. (3) Factors like technology spillover risk cost inhibit the evolution towards cooperative strategies. To be specific, when the technology spillover risk cost is greater than 2.5, two enterprises are inclined to choose independent R&D, and the government chooses to provide subsidy.Research limitations/implicationsThe research perspective and theoretical analysis are helpful to further explore the cross-border cooperation of the intelligent automobile industry. The findings suggest that the government can optimize the subsidy policy according to the R&D capability and resource allocation of automobile industry. Moreover, measures are needed to reduce the risk of technology spillovers to encourage enterprise to collaborate and innovate. The results can provide reference for enterprises’ strategic choice and government’s policy making.Originality/valueThe INEV industry has become an important development direction of the global automobile industry. However, there is limited research on cross-border cooperation of INEV industry. Hence, authors construct a tripartite evolutionary game model involving NEV enterprise, technology enterprise and the government, and explore the relationship of cooperation and competition among players in the INEV industry, which provides a new perspective for the development of the INEV industry.
Risk assessment of high-speed railway CTC system based on improved game theory and cloud model
Authors: Sun Yanhao , Zhang Tao , Ding Shuxin , Yuan Zhiming , Yang Shengliang 
Published: May 2024

PurposeIn order to solve the problem of inaccurate calculation of index weights, subjectivity and uncertainty of index assessment in the risk assessment process, this study aims to propose a scientific and reasonable centralized traffic control (CTC) system risk assessment method.Design/methodology/approachFirst, system-theoretic process analysis (STPA) is used to conduct risk analysis on the CTC system and constructs risk assessment indexes based on this analysis. Then, to enhance the accuracy of weight calculation, the fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP), fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (FDEMATEL) and entropy weight method are employed to calculate the subjective weight, relative weight and objective weight of each index. These three types of weights are combined using game theory to obtain the combined weight for each index. To reduce subjectivity and uncertainty in the assessment process, the backward cloud generator method is utilized to obtain the numerical character (NC) of the cloud model for each index. The NCs of the indexes are then weighted to derive the comprehensive cloud for risk assessment of the CTC system. This cloud model is used to obtain the CTC system's comprehensive risk assessment. The model's similarity measurement method gauges the likeness between the comprehensive risk assessment cloud and the risk standard cloud. Finally, this process yields the risk assessment results for the CTC system.FindingsThe cloud model can handle the subjectivity and fuzziness in the risk assessment process well. The cloud model-based risk assessment method was applied to the CTC system risk assessment of a railway group and achieved good results.Originality/valueThis study provides a cloud model-based method for risk assessment of CTC systems, which accurately calculates the weight of risk indexes and uses cloud models to reduce uncertainty and subjectivity in the assessment, achieving effective risk assessment of CTC systems. It can provide a reference and theoretical basis for risk management of the CTC system.
Modelling dynamics between free‐living amoebae and bacteria
Authors: Ali Marwa , Rice Christopher A. , Byrne Andrew W. , Paré Philip E. , Beauvais Wendy 
Published: May 2024

AbstractFree‐living amoebae (FLA) serve as hosts for a variety of endosymbionts, which are microorganisms that reside and multiply within the FLA. Some of these endosymbionts pose a pathogenic threat to humans, animals, or both. The symbiotic relationship with FLA not only offers these microorganisms protection but also enhances their survival outside their hosts and assists in their dispersal across diverse habitats, thereby escalating disease transmission. This review is intended to offer an exhaustive overview of the existing mathematical models that have been applied to understand the dynamics of FLA, especially concerning their interactions with bacteria. An extensive literature review was conducted across Google Scholar, PubMed, and Scopus databases to identify mathematical models that describe the dynamics of interactions between FLA and bacteria, as published in peer‐reviewed scientific journals. The literature search revealed several FLA–bacteria model systems, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Pasteurella multocida, and Legionella spp. Although the published mathematical models account for significant system dynamics such as predator–prey relationships and non‐linear growth rates, they generally overlook spatial and temporal heterogeneity in environmental conditions, such as temperature, and population diversity. Future mathematical models will need to incorporate these factors to enhance our understanding of FLA–bacteria dynamics and to provide valuable insights for future risk assessment and disease control measures.
Fiscal consolidation and voting: on the electoral costs of budgetary stability
Authors: Lago‐Peñas Santiago , Cadaval‐Sampedro María , Herrero‐Alcalde Ana 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIn this paper, we analyse the potential impact of policies aimed at fostering fiscal sustainability on citizens’ preferences. A survey specifically designed for this purpose quantifies citizens’ knowledge and concern about fiscal imbalances and the institutional framework that addresses them in Spain, and their possible electoral reactions to public spending cuts and tax increases. Using both ordered and unordered multinomial probit models, we corroborate that citizens tend to disapprove of retrenchment policies. However, the effect on citizens’ voting intentions varies depending on their political ideology. We confirm that left‐wing voters supporting the incumbent coalition parties prefer austerity policies based on the revenue side of the budget, while right‐wing voters tend to approve retrenchments based on the expenditure side to a larger extent.
Volcanically Driven Terrestrial Environmental Perturbations during the Carnian Pluvial Episode in the Eastern Tethys
Authors: RAHMAN Naveed Ur , XIAN Benzhong , FANG Linhao , CHEN Sirui , CHEN Peng , ULLAH Zaheen , WANG Pengyu 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe Carnian Pluvial Episode (CPE) fingerprints global environmental perturbations and biological extinction on land and oceans and is potentially linked to the Wrangellia Large Igneous Province (LIP). However, the correlation between terrestrial environmental changes and Wrangellia volcanism in the Ordos Basin during the CPE remains poorly understood. Records of negative carbon isotopic excursions (NCIEs), mercury (Hg), Hg/TOC, and Hg enrichment factor (HgEF) from oil shales in a large‐scale terrestrial Ordos Basin in the Eastern Tethys were correlated with marine and other terrestrial successions. The three significant NCIEs in the study section were consistently correlated with those in the CPE successions of Europe, the UK, and South and North China. The U‐Pb geochronology indicates a Ladinian–Carnian age for the Chang 7 Member. A comprehensive overview of the geochronology, NCIE correlation, and previous bio‐ and chronostratigraphic frameworks shows that the Ladinian–Carnian boundary is located in the lower part of Chang 7 in the Yishicun section. HgEF may be a more reliable proxy for tracing volcanic eruptions than the Hg/TOC ratio because the accumulation rates of TOC content largely vary in terrestrial and marine successions. The records of Hg, Hg/TOC, HgEF, and NCIEs in the Ordos Basin aligned with Carnian successions worldwide and were marked by similar anomalies, indicating a global response to the Wrangellia LIP during the CPE. Anoxia, a warm‐humid climate, enhancement of detrital input, and NCIEs are synchronous with the CPE interval in the Ordos Basin, which suggests that the CPE combined with the regional Qinling Orogeny should dominate the enhanced rate of terrigenous input and paleoenvironmental evolution in the Ordos Basin.
Detection dogs can help researchers with elusive forest owl conservation
Authors: Gill Nicole , Cristescu Romane , Cisterne Adam , Stojanovic Dejan 
Published: May 2024

AbstractElusive fauna are often studied indirectly, via traces they leave behind, or via other non‐invasive survey methods. Critically endangered Tasmanian masked owls are both rare and elusive, which hampers conservation efforts. Spotlighting and call playback often have low success rates in accurately determining the presence/absence of Tasmanian masked owls. Using indirect survey techniques for traces such as owl pellets can be more efficient and provide a more reliable source of detailed data regarding presence/absence, diet, health, population structure and environmental contaminants. However, pellets can be difficult for researchers to find in the field. We evaluate whether detection dogs are effective in finding owl pellets in two steps: an experimental trial comparing the performance of a dog team to that of an ecologist with significant field experience with masked owls; and in a pilot field study where the dog team searched potential owl habitat in Tasmanian forests. During the experimental trials, the dog team significantly outperformed the ecologist. The dog team was more sensitive, finding 89% versus 40% of pellets present for the ecologist, and took half as long to search an equivalent‐sized search area. The combined efficiency of the dog team was 4.5 times greater than that of an ecologist working alone. During the pilot study, in searching areas of potential masked owl habitat, no pellets were found. However, when sites were visited where owls were known to have been recently sighted, the dog team were able to find large numbers of owl pellets suitable for collection and potential data extraction. Our trials suggest that dogs can find owl pellets with considerably greater sensitivity and efficiency than ecologists working alone and that they would be best used in combination with targeted surveys, especially when the detection and subsequent collection of as many pellets as possible is desirable for DNA extraction or other analysis.
In vitro mRNA‐S maternal vaccination induced altered immune regulation at the maternal‐fetal interface
Authors: Kammala Ananth Kumar , Tatiparthy Madhuri , Thomas Tilu Jain , Bonam Srinivasa Reddy , Boldogh Istvan , Haitao Hu , Sharma Surendra , Menon Ramkumar 
Published: May 2024

AbstractBackgroundMaternal‐fetal immunology is intricate, and the effects of mRNA‐S maternal vaccination on immune regulation at the maternal‐fetal interface require further investigation. Our study endeavors to elucidate these immunological changes, enhancing our comprehension of maternal and fetal health outcomes. By analyzing immune profiles and cytokine responses, we aim to provide valuable insights into the impact of mRNA‐S vaccination on the delicate balance of immune regulation during pregnancy, addressing critical questions in the field of reproductive pharmacology.ObjectivesThis investigation sought to examine the prospective influence of mRNA‐S‐based vaccines and extracellular vesicles (EVs) containing the Spike (S) protein at the maternal‐fetal interface. Our primary emphasis was on evaluating their effects on maternal decidua cells and fetal chorion trophoblast cells (hFM‐CTCs).MethodsWe validated the generation of EVs containing the S protein from small human airway epithelial cell lines (HSAECs) following mRNA‐S vaccine exposure. We assessed the expression of angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) gene and protein in fetal membranes and the placenta, with specific attention to decidual cells and fetal membrane chorion cells. To assess cellular functionality, these cells were exposed to both recombinant S protein and EVs loaded with S proteins (eSPs).ResultsOur findings revealed that cells and EVs subjected to mRNA‐S‐based vaccination exhibited altered protein expression levels of S proteins. At the feto‐maternal interface, both placental and fetal membrane tissues demonstrated similar ACE‐2 expression levels. Among individual cellular layers, syncytiotrophoblast cells in the placenta and chorion cells in the fetal membrane exhibited elevated ACE‐2 expression. Notably, EVs derived from HSAECs activated the MAPK pathway in decidual cells. Additionally, decidual cells displayed a substantial increase in gene expression of chemokines like CXCL‐10 and CXCL‐11, as well as proinflammatory cytokines such as IL‐6 in response to eSPs. However, the levels of Ccl‐2 and IL‐1β remained unchanged in decidual cells under the same conditions. Conversely, hFM‐CTCs demonstrated significant alterations in the proinflammatory cytokines and chemokines with respect to eSPs.ConclusionIn conclusion, our study indicates that mRNA‐S‐based maternal vaccination during pregnancy may influence the maternal‐fetal interface's COVID‐19 interaction and immune regulation. Further investigation is warranted to assess safety and implications.