bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Sustainable water management in construction: life-cycle embodied water assessment of residential buildings
Authors: Rauf Abdul , Shafiq Muhammad Tariq , Khalfan Malik Mansoor Ali , Ulhaq Irfan 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis study aims to enhance our understanding of sustainable water management in construction through a life-cycle embodied water assessment of a villa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It provides insights and recommendations for improving the water efficiency by identifying areas for potential embodied water saving and reduction in environmental impacts in the construction industry.Design/methodology/approachThis study uses a life-cycle assessment (LCA) approach and focuses on a UAE villa as a case study. It analyses the embodied water consumption during construction (initial embodied water) and maintenance (recurrent embodied water) using an input–output-based hybrid analysis. Additionally, it compares the embodied water observations with the operational water usage and comprehensively evaluates the water consumption in the villa’s life-cycle.FindingsThe initial (28%) and recurrent embodied water (42%) represent significant proportions of a building’s life-cycle water demand. The structural elements, predominantly concrete and steel, contribute 40% of the initial embodied water consumption. This emphasises the importance of minimising the water usage in these materials. Similarly, internal finishes account for 47% of the recurrent embodied water. This emphasises the importance of evaluating the material service life.Practical implicationsThese findings indicate the efficacy of using durable materials with low embodiment and water-efficient construction methods. Additionally, collaborative research between academia, industry, and the government is recommended in conjunction with advocating for policies promoting low embodied-water materials and transparency in the construction sector through embodied water footprint reporting.Originality/valuePrevious studies focused on the operational water and marginally addressed the initial embodied water. Meanwhile, this study highlights the significance of the initial and recurrent embodied water in the life-cycle water demand. It emphasises on the need for adaptable buildings with reduced embodied water and more durable materials to minimise the requirement for frequent material replacements.
Chinese consumers’ lived experiences of flexitarianism
Authors: Zou Stella , Bremer Phil , Mirosa Miranda 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis was an explorative study, the purpose of which was to understand how Chinese flexitarians were motivated to reduce their animal-based food consumption and specifically to explore why and what was behind these changes. Further, this study provides insights into how a transition towards a more plant-based diet might occur.Design/methodology/approachThis study conducted 30 in-depth online interviews with Chinese flexitarians from two major Chinese cities. Interview transcripts were analysed through the lens of the Food Choice Process Model.FindingsParticipants adopted flexitarian diets due to health (n = 22), sustainability (n = 5) or ethical (n = 3) concerns. Many participants stated that they still enjoyed animal-sourced foods, were uncomfortable talking about their dietary transition and needed more social support. Consequently, most participants were unlikely to progress to vegetarian or vegan diets. While there are some commonalities between these findings and the results of similar studies with Western consumers, the many culturally and context-specific results revealed herein make an important contribution to the sustainability literature.Originality/valueThis is the first study exploring Chinese consumers’ flexitarianism experiences. These findings can be used by the food industry and interested business actors to improve communication and promotional strategies that encourage consumers to make healthier and more sustainable food choices.
Generic business strategies and competitiveness of SMEs in Nigeria
Authors: Isichei Ejikeme Emmanuel , Isichei Maria Onyejeche , Moruku Robert Kemepade 
Published: June 2024

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the mediating effect of employee engagement on the relationship between generic business strategies and the competitiveness of Small and Medium-Scale Enterprises (SMEs) in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja (FCT).

Design/methodology/approach
The research design used a cross-sectional survey approach, focusing on SMEs registered with the SMEDAN in FCT-Abuja. A total of 349 SMEs were used. Data collection relied on a questionnaire-based survey instrument. The data were analysed using Partial Least Square Structural Equation Model (SmartPLSv3.1).

Findings
The results revealed several significant findings. Firstly, the study confirmed a direct and positive relationship between the cost leadership strategy and SME competitiveness, indicating that cost leadership significantly enhances competitiveness. Secondly, a significant and positive relationship was identified between the focus strategy and SME competitiveness, suggesting its significant contribution. However, the relationship between the differentiation strategy and SME competitiveness was found to be non-significant. Moreover, the research established that employee engagement has a significant positive effect on SME competitiveness. The study also confirmed the mediating effect of employee engagement on the relationship between cost leadership strategy and competitiveness, as well as between focus strategy and competitiveness. Lastly, employee engagement significantly mediated the relationship between differentiation strategy and SME competitiveness.

Originality/value
The paper advances a new perspective by linking internal resource’s role in strategic management effort towards ensuring increased firm competitiveness especially in SMEs. The paper offers scholars a new area of research, as it draws scholarly attention to internal behaviour mechanisms that drives top managements activities through lower-level employee participation towards ensuring improved competitiveness.
Navigating turbulence in the UK: how gender shapes self-employed social engagement during crises?
Authors: Haj Youssef Moustafa , Nolan Steve , Hussein Hiba 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThis study examines the dynamic relationship between UK entrepreneurs' engagement with society and the economic climate surrounding the 2008 financial crisis – before, during and after it. We investigate whether such crises strengthen or weaken the connections between entrepreneurship and society, considering gender differences.Design/methodology/approachWe employ individual-level data from the British Household Panel Survey (BHPS) and the UK Longitudinal Study (UKLS) to assess changes in entrepreneurs' social engagement during crises. We use panel logit and Poisson regressions to estimate trends in social engagement over time and in response to economic turmoil.FindingsWe discover that entrepreneurs are more likely to join social organisations during economic turmoil. This engagement varies by gender, with female entrepreneurs more inclined to engage with social organisations than males. This suggests that female entrepreneurs perceive crisis risks differently, seeking support to navigate uncertainty. Additionally, we find evidence supporting the idea that female entrepreneurs take longer to recover from major economic shocks than their male counterparts.Originality/valueEntrepreneur behaviour during crises remains understudied. The role of social ties and networks in aiding entrepreneurs during systemic crises is particularly unexplored. This study addresses this gap, highlighting gender-based behavioural differences during crises and paving the way for further research. It represents a crucial step in integrating crisis literature into entrepreneurship studies.
The influence of institutional logics on vaccine development, production and distribution in Africa
Authors: Chawana Richard , Mamabolo Anastacia , Apostoleris Evangelos 
Published: June 2024

PurposeAfrica has the most deaths from infections yet lacks adequate capacity to engage in vaccine development, production and distribution, the cornerstone of efficiently managing and eliminating several infectious diseases. Research has scarcely explored the role of institutional logics in vaccine development, production and distribution, collectively known as end-to-end vaccine manufacturing. This study aims to explore how institutional logics influence firms to engage in the vaccine manufacturing value chain in Africa.Design/methodology/approachWe conducted multiple case study research using five vaccine manufacturing firms from four African countries in three regions. Qualitative interviews were conducted among 18 executives in 5 vaccine manufacturing firms.FindingsWe identified that the state, corporate and market institutional logics disparately influence the different parts of the vaccine manufacturing value chain. These institutional logics co-exist in a constellation that also shapes the organizational forms. Their constellation has dominant logics that guide behavior, while subdominant and subordinate logics influence behavior to a limited extent. The findings show that institutional logics are a function of contextual factors, such as historical events, technological changes and pandemics.Originality/valueThe study developed a typology that identifies vaccine manufacturing firm archetypes, institutional logics and their constellations underpinned by contextual factors. The findings have implications for firms and policymakers, as they may guide the end-to-end vaccine manufacturing interventions adapted for their regions.
Are resources and demands from accountability policies productive? How leaders build district capacity in response to school turnaround policy
Authors: Torres A. Chris 
Published: June 2024

PurposeAs school districts evolve in their ability to actively support schools and educators, they must simultaneously contend with external policies that create additional demands on time and resources. This includes accountability policies aimed at increasing district and school capacity. This study uses Malen and Rice’s (2004) dual dimensions of capacity building to look at how district and charter leaders responded to the demands of Michigan’s Partnership Model, a district-based approach to school turnaround, focusing on how they tried to build capacity in response to the policy and whether and why these capacity building approaches were perceived as productive.Design/methodology/approachSemi-structured interviews were conducted with 22 out of 29 Partnership leaders between October 2019 to March 2020 in the second year of policy implementation. Data were analyzed using a combination of index-coding and thematic analysis.FindingsMost leaders perceived the resources associated with the reform as useful, but the productivity of capacity building efforts was limited because some resources were not adequately matched to what they perceived as a core problem: the recruitment and retention of teachers. Engagement with the reform resulted in building informational and social capital because it fostered collaboration and continuous improvement processes, but leaders perceived technical partnerships as more productive than community partnerships.Originality/valueTurnaround reforms like the Partnership Model that increase resources for districts and schools likely offer a better chance at success than those that simply focus on accountability threats without accompanying support because they give leaders new opportunities to coordinate and align resources, processes and ideas.
Is knowledge liberating? The role of knowledge behaviors and competition on the workplace happiness of healthcare professionals
Authors: Gonçalves Tiago , Muñoz-Pascual Lucía , Curado Carla 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to highlight the joint impact of competitive culture and knowledge behaviors (sharing, hoarding and hiding) on workplace happiness among healthcare professionals. It addresses a literature gap that critiques the development of happiness programs in healthcare that overlook organizational, social and economic dynamics. The study is based on the Social Exchange Theory, the Conservation of Resources Theory and the principles of Positive Psychology.Design/methodology/approachThe study analyzes a linear relationship between variables using a structural equation model and a partial least squares approach. The data are sourced from a survey of 253 healthcare professionals from Portuguese healthcare organizations.FindingsThe data obtained from the model illustrate a positive correlation between competitive culture and knowledge hoarding as well as knowledge hiding. Interestingly, a competitive culture also fosters workplace happiness among healthcare professionals. The complex relationship between knowledge behaviors becomes evident since both knowledge hoarding and sharing positively affected these professionals’ workplace happiness. However, no direct impact was found between knowledge hiding and workplace happiness, suggesting that it negatively mediates other variables.Originality/valueThis research addresses a previously identified threefold gap. First, it delves into the pressing need to comprehend behaviors that enhance healthcare professionals’ workplace satisfaction. Second, it advances studies by empirically examining the varied impacts of knowledge hiding, hoarding and sharing. Finally, it sheds light on the repercussions of knowledge behaviors within an under-explored context – healthcare organizations.
CEO reflections on leadership lessons from the global pandemic: back to basics during crisis
Authors: Longenecker Clinton O. , Wittmer Jenell 
Published: June 2024

PurposeThe current study qualitatively examined the challenges and lessons learned from Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) during the COVID-19 pandemic. The current study draws upon previous crisis leadership research to understand and classify the most important lessons learned from CEOs.Design/methodology/approachA total of 30 in-depth, structured CEO interviews were conducted with large, multi-divisional organizations across market sectors that included healthcare, automotive, steel, agriculture, logistics, distribution, banking, financial services, light manufacturing and industrial services during the COVID-19 pandemic. Three separate judges performed a content analysis, and three main themes (eleven overall lessons) emerged related to high-level leadership lessons learned through the pandemic.FindingsThe leadership lessons that emerged overwhelmingly focused on the importance of emphasizing leadership fundamentals during crisis. CEO’s shared the importance of getting “back to basics” during the pandemic. The current study presents these leadership lessons, along with insights for leadership practices and development, as well as future research. Additionally, questions for reflection are posed to stimulate current and future leaders’ growth and development.Originality/valueThe COVID-19 pandemic has impacted leadership and organizations in an unprecedented manner. Previous research has outlined the leadership traits and behaviors needed to successfully lead through organizational crises. However, little research has examined CEO level lessons learned, focusing on learning from such crises.
Coerced motherhood behind bars: Public support for abortion access for incarcerated women
Authors: Smith Paula , Cullen Francis T. , Pickett Justin T. , Jonson Cheryl Lero 
Published: June 2024

AbstractResearch SummaryThe U.S. Supreme Court's Dobbs decision overturning Roe v. Wade has profound implications for the 58,000 incarcerated women who are pregnant. Especially in states that now ban abortion, women in prisons and jails who prefer to terminate their pregnancy will be denied that choice by the government and will be forced to give birth. Based on a July 2023 YouGov survey (N = 800) employing three experiments and measuring attitudes toward inmate abortion and parental aid, the current study examines public opinion on coerced motherhood, focusing on states prohibiting reproductive choice. The results reveal that a majority of the American public favors providing incarcerated women in these states with access to abortion through surgical procedures or medication (pills). Among respondents residing in states banning abortion, more endorse than oppose reproductive rights. Support for abortion is particularly high when the pregnancy is due to rape or poses a risk to a woman's health. Respondents also approve incarcerated mothers receiving parental aid (e.g., baby food, baby clothing, nursery care). Notably, conservative Republicans are most in favor of coercing motherhood and least in favor of providing parental aid.Policy ImplicationsCoerced motherhood behind bars is a human rights violation. Our study shows that it is also opposed by the American public. Thus, ideological space exists for reforms aimed at providing incarcerated women with access to reproductive services. Every correctional facility should be given a written protocol (Model Reproductive Services Code) that mandates pregnancy screenings, counseling, and assistance in scheduling services, as well as transportation for surgery and/or access to pills for a medical abortion. Above all, transparency is needed to raise consciousness about coerced motherhood behind bars and to shed light on how corrections professionals handle inmate pregnancies.
Politics and race in the workplace: Understanding how and when trump‐supporting managers hinder black employees from thriving at work
Authors: Rice Darryl B. , Young Nicole C. J. , Taylor Regina M. , Leonard Stephanie R. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractOur research contributes to the human resource management (HRM) literature that explains the adverse impact of right‐wing populism on workplace diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). Accordingly, our study adds to the growing literature that examines the Trump effect on workplace dynamics. To this end, we rely on social information processing theory to argue that managers perceived to be Trump‐supporting, compared to managers perceived to be Trump‐opposing, are less likely to demonstrate inclusive leadership toward Black employees. This decreased demonstration of inclusive leadership is a salient workplace cue for Black employees that they are in an organization where Black employees' thriving at work is undesirable. We also argue this will be especially the case for relatively younger Black employees compared to relatively older Black employees. Across three studies, we find support for our hypotheses. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Witness Seminar: Writing to Politicians
Authors: Kowol Kit , Toye Richard 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThis article represents the transcript of a 2022 witness seminar on the theme of members of the British public writing to politicians. Collectively, the witnesses have experience of this issue dating from the early 1970s through to the present day. Angie Williams shares her experience of handling correspondence for Ed Miliband and Jeremy Corbyn as leaders of the Labour Party. Lord Kinnock (Neil Kinnock) describes what it was like to receive correspondence both as an MP and as Labour Party leader. David Beckingham relates his experience working in the Number 10 Political Office under Theresa May and Boris Johnson. Lord Parkinson (Stephen Parkinson) also gives a perspective on May, for whom he worked both at the Home Office and in Downing Street. Camilla Jequier explains her role dealing with correspondence for two Conservative MPs. The issues explored include attempts to use correspondence to measure public opinion, the shift from letters to email, gifts enclosed with letters, correspondents with mental health issues, death threats, and the emotional dimensions of correspondence. The witnesses had similar or overlapping experiences. There was agreement that correspondence is often misdirected or phrased in ways that are unlikely to be productive. This may point to a failure of citizenship education.
Novel molecular, structural and clinical findings in an Italian cohort of congenital cataract
Authors: Lecca Mauro , Mauri Lucia , Gana Simone , Del Longo Alessandra , Morelli Federica , Nicotra Roberta , Plumari Massimo , Galli Jessica , Sirchia Fabio , Valente Enza Maria , Cavallari Ugo , Mazza Marco , Signorini Sabrina , Errichiello Edoardo 
Published: June 2024

AbstractThe current genetic diagnostic workup of congenital cataract (CC) is mainly based on NGS panels, whereas exome sequencing (ES) has occasionally been employed. In this multicentre study, we investigated by ES the detection yield, mutational spectrum and genotype–phenotype correlations in a CC cohort recruited between 2020 and mid‐2022. The cohort consisted of 67 affected individuals from 51 unrelated families and included both non‐syndromic (75%) and syndromic (25%) phenotypes, with extra‐CC ocular/visual features present in both groups (48% and 76%, respectively). The functional effect of variants was predicted by 3D modelling and hydropathy properties changes. Variant clustering was used for the in‐depth assessment of genotype–phenotype correlations. A diagnostic (pathogenic or likely pathogenic) variant was identified in 19 out of 51 probands/families (~37%). In a further 14 probands/families a candidate variant was identified: in 12 families a VUS was detected, of which 9 were considered plausibly pathogenic (i.e., 4 or 5 points according to ACMG criteria), while in 2 probands ES identified a single variant in an autosomal recessive gene associated with CC. Eighteen probands/families, manifesting primarily non‐syndromic CC (15/18, 83%), remained unsolved. The identified variants (8 P, 12 LP, 10 VUS‐PP, and 5 VUS), half of which were unreported in the literature, affected five functional categories of genes involved in transcription/splicing, lens formation/homeostasis (i.e., crystallin genes), membrane signalling, cell–cell interaction, and immune response. A phenotype‐specific variant clustering was observed in four genes (KIF1A, MAF, PAX6, SPTAN1), whereas variable expressivity and potential phenotypic expansion in two (BCOR, NHS) and five genes (CWC27, KIF1A, IFIH1, PAX6, SPTAN1), respectively. Finally, ES allowed to detect variants in six genes not commonly included in commercial CC panels. These findings broaden the genotype–phenotype correlations in one of the largest CC cohorts tested by ES, providing novel insights into the underlying pathogenetic mechanisms and emphasising the power of ES as first‐tier test.
ProtEGOnist: Visual Analysis of Interactions in Small World Networks Using Ego‐graphs
Authors: Brich N. , Harbig T.A. , Paz M. Witte , Nieselt K. , Krone M. 
Published: June 2024

AbstractVisualizing small‐world networks such as protein‐protein interaction networks or social networks often leads to visual clutter and limited interpretability. To overcome these problems, we presentProtEGOnist, a visualization approach designed to explore small‐world networks.ProtEGOnistvisualizes networks using ego‐graphs that represent local neighborhoods. Ego‐graphs are visualized in an aggregated state as a glyph where the size encodes the size of the neighborhood and in a detailed version where the original network nodes can be explored. The ego‐graphs are arranged in an ego‐graph network, where edges encode similarity using the Jaccard index. Our design aims to reduce visual complexity and clutter while enabling detailed exploration and facilitating the discovery of meaningful patterns. To achieve this, our approach offers a network overview using ego‐graphs, a radar chart for a one‐to‐many ego‐graph comparison and meta‐data integration, and detailed ego‐graph subnetworks for interactive exploration. We demonstrate the applicability of our approach on a co‐author network and two different protein‐protein interaction networks. A web‐based prototype ofProtEGOnistcan be accessed online athttps://protegonist-tuevis.cs.uni-tuebingen.de/.