bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Beyond the basics: mapping the inflation response to fiscal deficit in India with smooth transition autoregressive model
Authors: Tariq Asif , Bashir Shahid , Amin Aadil 
Published: May 2024

PurposeIndia’s historical fiscal performance has featured elevated deficit levels. Driven by the imperative need for fiscal stimulus measures in response to the crisis, efforts toward fiscal consolidation from 2003 to 2008 were reversed in 2008–2009 due to the financial crisis. These stimulus actions are believed to have wielded a notable influence on inflation dynamics. Presumably, a high inflation rate hinders growth and inflicts severe welfare costs. Accordingly, the principal objective of this paper is to scrutinise the threshold effects of fiscal deficit on inflation within the context of the Indian economy.Design/methodology/approachWe employed the Smooth Transition Autoregressive (STAR) Model, a robust tool for capturing non-linear relationships, to discern the specific threshold level of fiscal deficit. Our analysis encompasses annual data spanning from 1971 to 2020. Additionally, we have leveraged the Toda-Yamamoto causality test to establish the existence and direction of a causal connection between fiscal deficit and inflation in the Indian economy.FindingsOur analysis pinpointed a critical threshold level of 3.40% for fiscal deficit, a value beyond which inflation dynamics in India undergo a marked transition, signifying the presence of significant non-linear effects. Moreover, the results derived from the Toda-Yamamoto causality test offer substantiating evidence of a causal relationship originating from the fiscal deficit and leading to inflation within the Indian economic framework.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings of our study carry significant implications, particularly for the formulation and execution of both fiscal and monetary policies. Understanding the threshold effects of fiscal deficit on inflation in India provides policymakers with valuable insights into achieving a harmonious balance between these two critical economic variables.Originality/valueTo the best of our knowledge, this study is the first of its kind to empirically investigate threshold effects of fiscal deficit on inflation in India from a non-linear perspective using the Smooth Transition Autoregression (STAR) model.
Expressive relationship between religion and emotional bonding on consumers’ loyalty in the banking sector
Authors: Dewi Ratna , Mulang Hastuti , Junaidi Junaidi 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
This study aims to examine the role of religion on Indonesia’ Muslim consumers’ emotional bonding and loyalty.

Design/methodology/approach
The sample consists of 505 and structural equation modelling was used to confirm research hypotheses.

Findings
The results indicated that religion has a positive and significant effect on Muslim consumers’ emotional bonding; furthermore, emotional bonding play an important role in mediating the relationship between consumers’ religiosity and consumers’ loyalty.

Research limitations/implications
Future research is required to confirm the validity of this study throughout the sector and among Muslim banking consumers.

Practical implications
Bank managers also promote their consumers as change agents to recommend their companies to others. It is also essential in strengthening the relationship between consumers and the companies.

Originality/value
This study provided the Muslim consumers’ loyalty standpoint, the study enlightened bank managers about consumers’ loyalty through religiosity and emotional bonding.
Temporary employment and financial distress in times of crisis
Authors: Zhang Dengjun , Wellalage Nirosha , Fernandez Viviana 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis study investigates the impact of temporary employment on various forms of financial distress for firms during the COVID-19 pandemic.Design/methodology/approachThe authors apply a logit model to evaluate the differences in the probabilities of experiencing financial distress for firms with or without temporary reemployment and for firms with different intensities of temporary workers. As an additional test, an ordinal logistic model is applied to reflect different degrees of financial distress.FindingsOur main results indicate that firms with temporary employment are more likely to experience financial distress than firms without temporary employment, regardless of the severity of financial distress. Among firms with temporary employment, our analysis suggests that a firm’s likelihood of experiencing financial distress depends on its relative share (quantile) of temporary workers.Practical implicationsOur findings provide valuable insights for evaluating the impact of temporary employment on firms’ vulnerability during the COVID-19 crisis and suggest strategies for firms to enhance resilience to similar future crises.Originality/valueOur study is the first one that explores the relationship between temporary employment and financial distress. Firms around the world have been pursuing flexible labor to improve resilience and firm performance. The pandemic may further ramify this trend, creating a future “new normal” regarding employment relationships, job segmentation and gender equality in the job market. This article adds a new dimension to the evaluation of the new normal, which may help firms evaluate the consequences of temporary employment, especially in times of crisis.
A case study on the site supervisory attributes in construction labour management, performance assessment and productivity measurement practices
Authors: Manoharan Kesavan , Dissanayake Pujitha , Pathirana Chintha , Deegahawature Dharsana , Silva Renuka 
Published: May 2024

Purpose
The sustainability of the construction industry is associated with the productivity, profitability and competitiveness of the firms, which are significantly affected by inefficient site supervision and labour management approaches. This study aims to use a case study with mixed methods to evaluate the site supervisory characteristics in labour management, labour performance assessment and labour productivity measurement towards developing meaningful guidelines in polishing construction supervision attributes.

Design/methodology/approach
Well-developed modern apprenticeship elements were applied to 62 construction supervisors who were selected using the snowball sampling method, and their relevant competency characteristics were assessed using a comprehensively developed grading mechanism connected with useful training manuals/tools. Academic reviews, experts’ consultations and other meticulous mixed approaches were applied at different stages of the research plan’s sequential layout.

Findings
The mean performance scores of supervisors indicate proficient-level grades in the competency characteristics related to applying efficient labour management procedures and developing-level grades in designing productivity measurement tools, performing assessments on efficiency and productivity and proposing enhancement practices on efficiency and productivity for site operations. The findings point to a modern generalised guideline that establishes the ranges of supervisory attributes within the scope of the study. The validity, reliability, adaptability and generalisability of the findings were assured by using pertinent statistical tests and professional assessments.

Research limitations/implications
Though the study’s conclusions/findings are primarily applicable to the construction environment of a developing country comparable to the Sri Lankan context, they will considerably impact current/future industrial practices in various other countries and emerging industries.

Originality/value
The research has produced a conceptualised modern tool that guides determining the capacity levels of supervisory attributes for carrying out labour management, labour performance assessment and labour productivity measurement aspects in construction. The research has opened a pump that inflows new values of highly workable supervision features for strengthening the site management structures and filling the industry’s knowledge vacuum in the methodical execution of apprenticeships.
Performance management in a rapidly changing world: implications for talent management
Authors: Maley Jane F. , Dabić Marina , Neher Alain , Wuersch Lucia , Martin Lynn , Kiessling Timothy 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis conceptual work examines how, in times of post-COVID-19 paradigm shift, the employee performance management (PM) process can help multinational corporations (MNCs) strengthen their talent management and, at the same time, meet their future needs.Design/methodology/approachWe take a conceptual approach and present our perspective on what we see as the most critical trends shaping PM and talent management. Contingency theory and Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity (VUCA) theory provide a sound theoretical framework for understanding and responding to the complex and rapidly changing business context post-COVID-19.FindingsDrawing on these theories, we create a framework providing a means of understanding why and how MNCs can maintain talent and, at the same time, develop new talent through the PM process.Practical implicationsImportantly, our study emphasizes the critical role that project management and talent management techniques play for both practitioners and scholars. In order to gain and sustain a competitive edge in the ever-changing VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) landscape, these processes necessitate ongoing reassessment and adaptation. As Plato eloquently stated, “Our Need Will Be the Real Creator,” encapsulating our vision for the proactive and dynamic nature of effective project management and talent management practices.Originality/valueThe study establishes the benefits of an agile and flexible PM approach to help develop talent and pave the way for future research in this increasingly critical area
A collaborative approach to professional development on inclusive practices aligned to preschool mandates
Authors: Damiani Michelle L. , Unick Brad V. , Schultz Karen-Joy 
Published: May 2024

PurposeProfessional development (PD) is an essential component of continuing learning for in-service teachers. This paper discusses a school-based example of using the best practice of coaching in early childhood education supported by a professional development school partnership. We explain how a teacher identified need led to a collaborative, multistep approach to meeting that need in connection to State mandates.Design/methodology/approachIn this research, we used a case study methodological approach with a team of preschool teachers at one school. The model combines use of PD sessions, classroom coaching, classroom observation and reflection.FindingsTeachers’ feedback indicates that using the strategy positively impacted most of the participants’ ability to support communication, community-building and inclusive practices in their classrooms. The data that emerged in the following year evidenced increased use of visual supports in classrooms, use in connection with literacy goals and interest in creating new uses in the school.Originality/valueThis article contributes an action-oriented school-based example of bridging research to practice to support teachers’ needs through PD and coaching in a PDS. The design and practical implications may interest preschool educators, instructional coaches, administrators, professional development schools and others involved with monitoring teacher development initiatives.
Psychological factors influencing online booking intentions among resort tourism service users
Authors: Baydeni̇z Erdem , Türkoğlu Turgut , Kart Nurullah 
Published: May 2024

PurposeThis study examines the psychological factors that directly influence individuals’ intentions to book or arrange reservations through resort hotel websites within the context of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT). Specifically, this study focused on identifying and understanding the key drivers of online purchase intentions, including performance expectancy, effort expectancy, social influence and facilitating conditions within the UTAUT model.Design/methodology/approachThis study used the UTAUT as a theoretical framework. A quantitative research approach was adopted and data were collected through surveys using a five-point Likert scale. The sample consisted of 270 participants, selected through purposive sampling. Data analysis was performed using Smart PLS software.FindingsThe results indicate that performance and effort expectancy significantly influence online purchase intentions. However, social influence did not significantly affect online purchase intention. By contrast, facilitating conditions significantly and positively influence online purchase intention.Practical implicationsThese findings have practical implications for hotel managers and marketers. Emphasizing performance, effort expectations and facilitating conditions can improve customer perceptions of website usefulness and directly increase their intention to book. The limited impact of social influence suggests the need to focus less on social recommendations or endorsements in online marketing efforts and prioritize individual factors and objective information.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the field of technology and tourism by examining the psychological factors that directly influence users’ intention to purchase from resort hotel websites. This extends the understanding of online purchase intentions in the context of resort tourism and highlights the importance of facilitating conditions. This study also partially confirms the applicability of the UTAUT model in this domain and provides insights for future research on online purchase intentions in resort tourism.
The use of virtual reality for activities of daily living rehabilitation after brain injury: A scoping review
Authors: Grewal Jasleen , Eng Janice J. , Sakakibara Brodie M. , Schmidt Julia 
Published: May 2024

AbstractIntroductionIndividuals with acquired brain injury (ABI) experience high rates of poor functional outcomes such as inability to complete activities of daily living (ADL). Occupational therapy needs to be customised to the individual's function, goals, and environment to facilitate improvement in ADLs after ABI. Virtual reality (VR) is a novel treatment approach that aims to improve skills within an individualised environment. This study aimed to review the current literature for the use of VR platforms that incorporate ADLs to improve functional outcomes after ABI.MethodsThis review followed the six‐stage framework by Arksey & O'Malley (2005). Electronic databases were searched for peer‐reviewed journal articles based on inclusion and exclusion criteria.ResultsOne thousand and six hundred eighty articles were screened, including 413 full text articles and 13 articles were included for review. Among the 13 articles, six were RCTs and the rest were pre‐post intervention studies. Studies largely used non‐immersive VR platforms, which incorporated ADLs such as grocery shopping, aiming to improve functional outcomes.Consumer and community consultationConsumer and community were not involved in executing this study.ConclusionThis review suggests mixed results if VR is effective at treating upper limb, cognition, and ADL function after ABI. Using their clinical reasoning, occupational therapists can determine the suitability of VR for ADL rehabilitation for specific patient populations and settings.Plain Language SummaryIndividuals who sustain an acquired brain injury can have difficulty performing their daily activities such as, making a meal or getting dressed, because of limited function (e.g., physical and cognitive problems). To help improve their ability to complete daily activities, occupational therapy needs to be customised to the individual's function, goals, and environment. Virtual reality is a new rehabilitation approach that allows individuals to improve their function in an individualised environment. In this study, we reviewed the current studies that have used virtual reality platforms that incorporate daily activities to improve function after acquired brain injury. We searched databases and screened the titles and abstracts of 1,680 studies. Then, 413 full‐text studies were screened, and 13 studies were included. Studies mostly used non‐immersive platforms to practise daily activities such as, grocery shopping, aiming to improve function after acquired brain injury. This review suggests mixed results if virtual reality can effectively treat function after acquired brain injury.
Examining the impacts of salt specificity on freshwater microbial community and functional potential following salinization
Authors: Van Gray Jonathon B. , Ayayee Paul 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThe degradation of freshwater systems by salt pollution is a threat to global freshwater resources. Salinization is commonly identified by increased specific conductance (conductivity), a proxy for salt concentrations. However, conductivity fails to account for the diversity of salts entering freshwaters and the potential implications this has on microbial communities and functions. We tested 4 types of salt pollution—MgCl2, MgSO4, NaCl, and Na2SO4—on bacterial taxonomic and functional α‐, β‐diversity of communities originating from streams in two distinct localities (Nebraska [NE] and Ohio [OH], USA). Community responses depended on the site of origin, with NE and OH exhibiting more pronounced decreases in community diversity in response to Na2SO4 and MgCl2 than other salt amendments. A closer examination of taxonomic and functional diversity metrics suggests that core features of communities are more resistant to induced salt stress and that marginal features at both a population and functional level are more likely to exhibit significant structural shifts based on salt specificity. The lack of uniformity in community response highlights the need to consider the compositional complexities of salinization to accurately identify the ecological consequences of instances of salt pollution.
Critical steps in an environmental metaproteomics workflow
Authors: Nebauer Daniel J. , Pearson Leanne A. , Neilan Brett A. 
Published: May 2024

AbstractEnvironmental metaproteomics is a rapidly advancing field that provides insights into the structure, dynamics, and metabolic activity of microbial communities. As the field is still maturing, it lacks consistent workflows, making it challenging for non‐expert researchers to navigate. This review aims to introduce the workflow of environmental metaproteomics. It outlines the standard practices for sample collection, processing, and analysis, and offers strategies to overcome the unique challenges presented by common environmental matrices such as soil, freshwater, marine environments, biofilms, sludge, and symbionts. The review also highlights the bottlenecks in data analysis that are specific to metaproteomics samples and provides suggestions for researchers to obtain high‐quality datasets. It includes recent benchmarking studies and descriptions of software packages specifically built for metaproteomics analysis. The article is written without assuming the reader's familiarity with single‐organism proteomic workflows, making it accessible to those new to proteomics or mass spectrometry in general. This primer for environmental metaproteomics aims to improve accessibility to this exciting technology and empower researchers to tackle challenging and ambitious research questions. While it is primarily a resource for those new to the field, it should also be useful for established researchers looking to streamline or troubleshoot their metaproteomics experiments.
The impact of using Social Stories with the creative arts for individuals on the autism spectrum: Professionals' perspectives
Authors: Bawazir Rasha , Jones Phil 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study examined professionals' perspectives regarding the impact of using Social Stories with the creative arts for individuals on the autism spectrum. These perspectives were investigated using a theoretical framework which integrates Bandura's social learning theory and Gardner's multiple intelligences theory. A mixed‐methods sequential design was used, starting with a questionnaire, followed by the use of a series of qualitative methods. The findings revealed that including the creative arts is seen as an active component that supports the use of Social Stories. A variety of views, attitudes and suggestions were expressed, along with some concerns and challenges that were raised in relation to the impact of using Social Stories in conjunction with the creative arts.
Lack of social support, gender and colorectal cancer screening participation across Europe: How do screening programmes mitigate the effect of social support for men and women?
Authors: Jolidon Vladimir , De Prez Vincent , Bracke Piet , Cullati Stéphane , Burton‐Jeangros Claudine 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study investigates how a lack of social support differentially affects men and women’s colorectal cancer (CRC) screening participation, considering different screening strategies implemented across European countries. Although health sociology has stressed gender differences in social support and its effects on health behaviours, this was overlooked by cancer screening research. Using a data set of 65,961 women and 55,602 men in 31 European countries, we analysed the effect of social support variables on CRC screening uptake. We found that living alone and lower perceived social support were associated with lower screening uptake for both men and women. These effects were, however, stronger among men. Population‐based screening programmes mitigated these effects, particularly for women, but not for men living alone. In countries with opportunistic screening programmes, social support variables remained associated with screening uptake. We conclude that cancer screening interventions should pay attention to social support and its gender‐differentiated effects.
Energy poverty in light of the climate emergency in Sub‐Saharan Africa: Impact and transmission channels
Authors: Messie Pondie Thierry , Engwali Fon Dorothy 
Published: May 2024

AbstractThis study analyzes the effect of energy poverty on environmental quality for a sample of 43 countries in sub‐Saharan Africa. We specify and estimate a linear panel data model for the period 2000–2021, using fixed effects and the Driscoll‐Kraay method. The results show that access to electricity and clean energy for cooking have a positive and significant effect on deforestation and carbon emissions. Taking into account non‐linear analysis, we find that there is an inverted U‐relationship between energy indicators and environmental quality, thus, verifying the hypothesis of the Kuznet environmental curve. Thus, access to electricity and access to clean cooking energy improve environmental quality from a threshold. For the resolution of endogeneity, Lewbel 2SLS, the Kiviet method and S‐GMM were used. In addition, analysis of the sample data using a structural equation model (PLS‐SEM) shows that energy indicators pass through various channels to affect environmental quality. Therefore, based on these results, we recommend increasing investments in electricity infrastructure, especially in clean decentralized energy, in order to reduce deforestation and, therefore, CO2 emissions.