bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Marketing capability, technology capability and complementor performance: the mediating role of platform network centrality
Authors: Yan Enhui , Wu Jianlin , Gu Jibao 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to investigate how complementors’ marketing capability and technology capability affect their performance. Drawing on social capital theory, the authors examine platform network centrality as a mediator and platform reputation as a moderator of the relationships between these two capabilities and complementor performance.

Design/methodology/approach
This study collects data by questionnaire from 154 Chinese firms adopting e-commerce platforms. Hierarchical multiple regression is used to test the hypotheses of this study.

Findings
This study finds that complementors’ marketing capability and technology capability positively affect performance by increasing their platform network centrality. Moreover, platform reputation positively moderates the relationship between platform network centrality and complementor performance, and it strengthens the mediating role of platform network centrality.

Originality/value
This paper emphasizes the critical role of marketing capability and technology capability on complementor performance. It explores the improvement path of complementor performance from the perspective of network position, which is a key element for complementors to effectively leverage their capabilities to build competitive advantage.
The Industry 5.0 (I50) paradigm, blockchain-based applications and the smart city
Authors: Visvizi Anna , Malik Radosław , Guazzo Gianluca Maria , Çekani Vilma 
Published: April 2024

PurposeAgainst the background of the I50 paradigm, this paper queries in what ways blockchain and blockchain-based applications deployed in the smart city context facilitate the integration of the I50 paradigm in smart urban contexts.Design/methodology/approachA mixed methods approach is applied. First, by means of desk research and thematic literature review, a conceptual model integrating the I50 paradigm, smart city and blockchain-based solutions is built. Second, science mapping bibliometric analysis (SciMat) based on keywords’ co-occurrence is applied to a sample of 491 research articles to identify key domains of blockchain-based applications’ use in smart city. Third, a semi-systematic literature review complements insights gained through SciMat. Fourth, the findings are interpreted through the precepts of the conceptual model devised earlier.FindingsThe key blockchain-based applications in smart cities pertain to two domains, i.e. the foundational, service facilitation-oriented domain, including security (and safety), networks, computing, resource management and the service delivery-oriented domain, including mobility, energy and healthcare. Blockchain serves as the key building block for applications developed to deliver functions specific to each of the thus identified domains. A substantial layering of blockchain-based tools and applications is necessary to advance from the less to the more complex functional domains of the smart city.Originality/valueAt the conceptual level, the intricacies of the (making of the) I50 paradigm are discussed and a case for I50 – smart city – blockchain nexus is made. Easton’s input–output model as well as constructivism is referenced. At the empirical level, the key major domains of blockchain-based applications are discussed; those that bear the prospect of integrating the I50 paradigm in the smart city are highlighted. At the methodological level, a strategic move is made aimed at restoring the literature review’s role as subservient to the key line of exploration, to justify and ultimately support it, rather than to showcase the literature review as the ultimate purpose for itself.
Exploring the factors shaping business students’ environmental concern
Authors: Borusiak Barbara , Pieranski Bartlomiej , Gaweł Aleksandra , López Lluch David B , Kis Krisztián , Nagy Sándor , Gal Jozsef , Mravcová Anna , Gálová Jana , Knezevic Blazenka , Kotyza Pavel , Smutka Lubos , Malec Karel 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
Increasing the need for education for sustainable development in universities requires an understanding of the predictors of students’ environmental concern (EC). In this paper, the authors focus on the EC of business students because of their future responsibility for business operations regarding the exploitation of natural resources. The aim of the study is to examine the predictors of business students’ environmental concern.

Design/methodology/approach
Based on the Norm Activation Model as the theoretical framework, this study hypothesizes the model of EC with two main predictors: ascription of responsibility for the environment (AOR), driven by locus of control and self-efficacy (LC/SE), and awareness of positive consequences of consumption reduction on the environment (AOC), driven by perceived environmental knowledge. Structural equation modelling was applied to confirm the conceptual model based on the responses of business students from six countries (Czech Republic, Croatia, Hungary, Poland, Slovakia and Spain) collected through an online survey.

Findings
The environmental concern of business students is predicted both by the ascription of responsibility and by awareness of consequences; however, the ascription of responsibility is a stronger predictor of EC. A strong impact was found for internal locus of control and self-efficacy on AOR, as well as a weaker influence of perceived environmental knowledge on AOC.

Originality/value
Sustainability education dedicated to business students should provide environmental knowledge and strengthen their internal locus of control and self-efficacy in an environmental context.
LIDAR-based SLAM system for autonomous vehicles in degraded point cloud scenarios: dynamic obstacle removal
Authors: Ma Qihua , Li Qilin , Wang Wenchao , Zhu Meng 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
This study aims to achieve superior localization and mapping performance in point cloud degradation scenarios through the effective removal of dynamic obstacles. With the continuous development of various technologies for autonomous vehicles, the LIDAR-based Simultaneous localization and mapping (SLAM) system is becoming increasingly important. However, in SLAM systems, effectively addressing the challenges of point cloud degradation scenarios is essential for accurate localization and mapping, with dynamic obstacle removal being a key component.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper proposes a method that combines adaptive feature extraction and loop closure detection algorithms to address this challenge. In the SLAM system, the ground point cloud and non-ground point cloud are separated to reduce the impact of noise. And based on the cylindrical projection image of the point cloud, the intensity features are adaptively extracted, the degradation direction is determined by the degradation factor and the intensity features are matched with the map to correct the degraded pose. Moreover, through the difference in raster distribution of the point clouds before and after two frames in the loop process, the dynamic point clouds are identified and removed, and the map is updated.

Findings
Experimental results show that the method has good performance. The absolute displacement accuracy of the laser odometer is improved by 27.1%, the relative displacement accuracy is improved by 33.5% and the relative angle accuracy is improved by 23.8% after using the adaptive intensity feature extraction method. The position error is reduced by 30% after removing the dynamic target.

Originality/value
Compared with LiDAR odometry and mapping algorithm, the method has greater robustness and accuracy in mapping and localization.
Exploring the sustainability of specialized higher education curricula as exemplified by Jamaica's maritime education and training curriculum
Authors: Smith Johnson Evette , Immanuel Paul Nanibala 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThe purpose of this qualitative, single-case study was to explore the development of Jamaica’s maritime education and training (MET) curriculum within the local education context. In this research, the story of the development and sustainability of the local MET curriculum in its 40-year journey from 1980 to present (post 2020), as communicated by various maritime stakeholders and archival documents, is chronicled.Design/methodology/approachThe study utilized a qualitative orientation and was an embedded single-case study in its design. The entire local MET institution community and those legislatively and operationally allied to its sustained viability constituted the general population of this study. Non-probability sampling techniques were used to arrive at a maximum variation sample. Three sources of data were used in this study: individual interviews, focus group discussions and documents.FindingsThe Jamaican (local) MET curriculum was the brainchild of local perspicacity that was empowered by international benevolence. It was developed to satisfy market demands that existed at the time of its inception. These market requirements of the maritime industry are what impacted the development of the local MET curriculum over four decades. Several other factors led to the sustained viability of the local MET curriculum. These included the ability of the local MET curriculum to meet direct market needs and maintain its fitness for purpose.Research limitations/implicationsIt is the view of the researcher that the findings of this study were limited by the fact that the voices of current students and employers from the four decades of the curriculum's existence are not represented in this initial study. The perspectives from these two sources would have broadened the description presented in this study.Practical implicationsThis research has shown that specialized higher education (HE) institutions are better served in their business when they maintain a symbiotic relationship with the industry for which they are producing graduates.Social implicationsThe treatment of HE as a service industry has gained traction globally. This would suggest that ‘product placement' in specialized HE is important to the growth, development and longevity of that course of study within the society in which it exists.Originality/valueThere is a dearth of national research on Jamaica's four-decades-old MET curriculum and the elements that lend to the sustained viability of same. This discussion of sustainability of the MET curriculum will benefit maritime educators and policymakers, who must continue to hone this curriculum so that it is fit for purpose. The study will also identify some of the elements of a sustainable, specialized HE curriculum. The elements identified herein can serve as exemplars and conceptual starting points for other contexts where the discussion of the sustainability of curriculum needs to be had.
Older patients’ experiences of person-centred integrated care: joint replacement surgery as a case
Authors: Seittu Henriikka Anne-Mari , Hujala Anneli , Kaarakainen Minna 
Published: April 2024

PurposeIntegrated care (IC) is mainly studied from the perspectives of organisations or employees. However, less research is focussed on how patients themselves experience person-centred (PC) IC in practice. This context-specific, small-scale study examines what PC-IC means to older patients who went through joint replacement surgery (JRS).Design/methodology/approachThe data consists of ten in-depth interviews of older patients, focussing on their experiences of care during their patient journey related to joint knee or hip replacement surgery. The data were analysed with thematic analysis.FindingsThree central dimensions of PC-IC for older patients were identified: information sharing, continuity of care and compassionate encountering. Human validation and compassionate encountering were experienced as important aspects of PC-IC. Compassionate encountering was concretised through professionals’ very small everyday practices, which made the patient feel comfortable and respected. Instead, probably due to the medical and quite straight-forward nature of the joint replacement care process, patients seem to be pleased to trust the expertise of professionals and did not necessarily expect an active role or participation in the decision-making.Originality/valueThis Finnish case study focusses on the patients’ authentic perceptions of what is central to person-centred IC in the specific context of JRS.
The mediating effects of perceived brand integrity on brand ethical behavior and corporate brand legitimacy in halal cosmetics
Authors: Amani David 
Published: April 2024

PurposeThis study aims to examine the impact of brand ethical behavior, specifically perceived brand ethicality, on corporate brand legitimacy in the context of halal cosmetics, by considering perceived brand integrity as a mediating factor.Design/methodology/approachThe study used a quantitative cross-sectional research design to gather data from 341 fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) in Tanzania. The data was analyzed by using AMOS 21, using structural equation modeling techniques.FindingsThe findings indicated that perceived brand ethicality has a significant influence on corporate brand legitimacy through the mediation of perceived brand integrity.Practical implicationsThe study emphasizes the significance of incorporating and clarifying Islamic laws as integral components of marketing strategies aimed at attracting conscientious customers of halal products. It recommends defining Islamic laws as societal values and norms and integrating them into various brand practices to showcase professionalism, ultimately fostering social acceptance and approval. The study presents valuable practical implications for managers and marketers of FMCG, assisting them in formulating policies and strategies that reflect societal values and norms.Originality/valueThis study represents a novel endeavor that explores the interplay between perceived brand ethicality, corporate brand legitimacy and perceived brand integrity in the context of halal products. It extends theoretical understanding by shedding light on the significance of Islamic laws as a foundation for establishing a competitive advantage. By offering and designing ethical practices, businesses can enhance their legitimacy among halal consumers, particularly in the domain of halal cosmetics.
Delegation and salary information disclosure strategies of customer acquisition and retention
Authors: Wang Weiting , Liao Yi , Li Jiacan 
Published: April 2024

Purpose
The purpose of this study to improve the efficiency of customer acquisition and retention through the design of salary information disclosure mechanism.

Design/methodology/approach
This study develops a stylized game-theoretic model of delegating customer acquisition and retention, focusing on how firms choose delegation and wage information disclosure strategy.

Findings
The results confirm the necessity for enterprises to disclose salary information. When sales agents are risk neutral, firms should choose multi-agent (MA) delegation and disclose their wages. However, when agents are risk averse, firms may disclose the wages of acquisition agents or both agents in MA delegation, depending on the uncertainty of the retention market.

Originality/value
This paper contributes to the literature on delegation of customer acquisition and retention and demonstrates that salary disclosure can be used as a supplement to the incentive mechanism.
Virtual reality-based online learning system adoption: a research framework and empirical study
Authors: Wang Yi-Ting , Lin Kuan-Yu 
Published: April 2024

PurposeVirtual reality (VR) offers unprecedented immersion and interactivity in education, and working and learning from home have become the norm during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study empirically investigated the factors affecting the use of a VR online learning system (VROLS).Design/methodology/approachTo explore factors affecting users’ continuance behavioral intentions toward using VROLSs, a research framework was formed comprising factors that constitute benefits (i.e. pull factors) and costs (i.e. push factors); these factors included perceived value, flow and social influence. The data for this study were collected via online survey questionnaires. A total of 307 valid responses were used to examine the hypotheses in the research model, employing structural equation modeling (SEM) techniques.FindingsPerceived value, flow experience and the number of peers using VR primarily affect the decision to adopt a VROLS. The pull factors of spatial presence, entertainment and service compatibility, along with the push factors of complexity and visual fatigue, affect perceived value. Therefore, we conclude that perceived value is a primary factor positively influencing both flow experience and the decision to adopt the service.Originality/valueThis study contributes to a theoretical understanding of factors that explain users’ intention to use VROLSs.
Postbiotic properties of exopolysaccharide produced by Levilactobacillus brevis M‐10 isolated from natural fermented sour porridge through in vitro simulated digestion and fermentation
Authors: Wang Qi , Liu Pengfan , Peng Jiawei , Zhao Bin , Cai Jin 
Published: April 2024

AbstractThe simulated digestion and fermentation characteristics in vitro of exopolysaccharide (EPS) of Levilactobacillus brevis M‐10 were studied to evaluate its postbiotic properties. The simulated digestion results showed that EPS could not be degraded in saliva but could be very slightly degraded in gastric juice and could be degraded in intestinal juice. The results of simulated fermentation demonstrated that EPS could lower the intestine pH and be utilized by gut microbes to produce short‐chain fatty acids such as propionic acid and butyric acid. Meanwhile, EPS significantly raised the diversity of human gut microbiota, and the relative abundances of Phascolarctobacterium were significantly increased, whereas Fusobacterium and Morganella significantly decreased. In conclusion, EPS from L. brevis M‐10 was a good postbiotic as inulin. This was the first report about EPS as the postbiotic of L. brevis M‐10 screened from broomcorn millet sour porridge in northwestern Shanxi Province, China.
Knockout of phosphatidylethanolamine binding protein4 (PEBP4) promotes chronic non‐bacterial prostatitis by mediating the activation of NF‐κB signaling
Authors: He Hailan , Xiao Guancheng , Hu Xing , Luo Hui , Liao Yunfeng , Qian Biao , Zhang Guoxi , Zou Xiaofeng , Zou Junrong 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe etiology of chronic prostatitis remains unclear; consequently, this disease is associated with recurrence and ineffective clinical therapy. Therefore, there is an urgent need to investigate the underlying pathogenesis of chronic prostatitis in order to develop more efficacious treatments.ObjectiveThe previous study found that knocking out of PEBP4 leads to chronic prostatitis in the male mice. This research aimed to identify the role of PEBP4 in prostatitis, determine the molecular pathogenic mechanisms associated with chronic prostatitis, and provide guidelines for the development of new treatment strategies for chronic prostatitis.Materials and methodsA PEBP4 exon knockout strain (PEBP4−/−) was established in C57BL/6 mice via the Cre‐loxP system. Hematoxylin‐eosin (H&E) staining was used to investigate histological changes. RNA‐sequencing was used to investigate the gene expression signature of the prostate and the levels of inflammatory cytokines were determined by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). The expression of PEBP4 protein in prostate tissue was determined by immunohistochemistry in specimens from patients with BPH and BPH combined with chronic prostatitis. Finally, we used a CRISPR‐Cas9 plasmid to knockout PEBP4 in RWPE‐1 cells; western blotting was subsequently used to measure the level of activation in the NF‐κB signaling pathway after activating with TNF‐α.ResultsHemorrhage and inflammatory cell infiltration were incidentally observed in the seminal vesicles and prostate glands of PEBP4−/− mice after being fed with a normal diet for 1 year. In addition, we found significantly lower (p < 0.001) expression levels of PEBP4 protein in prostate tissues from patients with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) and chronic and non‐bacterial prostatitis (CNP) when compared to those with BPH only. The reduced expression of PEBP4 led to a higher risk of prostatitis recurrence in patients after 2 years of follow‐up. Increased levels of NF‐κB and IκB phosphorylation were observed in PEBP4‐knockout RWPE‐1 cells and prostate glands from PEBP4−/− mice.ConclusionThe knockout of PEBP4 in experimental mice led to chronic prostatitis and the reduced expression of PEBP4 in patients with higher risk of chronic and non‐bacterial prostatitis suggested that PEBP4 might act as a protective factor against chronic prostatitis. The knockout of PEBP4 in RWPE‐1 cells led to the increased activation of NF‐κB and IκB, thus indicating that inhibition of PEBP4 faciliated the NF‐κB signaling cascade. Our findings provide a new etiology and therapeutic target for chronic prostatitis.
Therapeutic potential of exosomes in spermatogenesis regulation and male infertility
Authors: Mohammadi Amirhossein , Shabani Ronak , Bashiri Zahra , Rafiei Sara , Asgari Hamidreza , Koruji Morteza 
Published: April 2024

AbstractBackgroundSpermatogenesis is a fundamental process crucial for male reproductive health and fertility. Exosomes, small membranous vesicles released by various cell types, have recently garnered attention for their role in intercellular communication.ObjectiveThis review aims to comprehensively explore the role of exosomes in regulating spermatogenesis, focusing on their involvement in testicular development and cell‐to‐cell communication.MethodsA systematic examination of literature was conducted to gather relevant studies elucidating the biogenesis, composition, and functions of exosomes in the context of spermatogenesis.ResultsExosomes play a pivotal role in orchestrating the complex signaling networks required for proper spermatogenesis. They facilitate the transfer of key regulatory molecules between different cell populations within the testes, including Sertoli cells, Leydig cells, and germ cells.ConclusionThe emerging understanding of exosome‐mediated communication sheds light on novel mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis regulation. Further research in this area holds promise for insights into male reproductive health and potential therapeutic interventions.