Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Web and Grid Services

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Web and Grid Services are now available here for free:

• Data locality-aware and QoS-aware dynamic cloud workflow scheduling in Hadoop for heterogeneous environment
• A feature-driven variability-enabled approach to adaptive service compositions
• A new joint geo-opportunistic routing scheme in duty cycled internet of underwater things
• Sentiment analysis and counselling for COVID-19 pandemic based on social media
• A survey on the optimisation of age of information in wireless networks

Special issue published: "Entrepreneurship Responses to Disruptions, Crises, and ‘Black Swans’ – a Cross-Country, Comparative Perspective" (includes Open Access article)

European Journal of International Management 22(4) 2024

• Relevant factors affecting nascent entrepreneurial activity in Chile and Spain: an analysis of the impact of the COVID-19
• Gender roles shaping the entrepreneurial mindset: embedded in the entrepreneurial ecosystem and impacted by the pandemic
• The role of entrepreneurial ecosystems in reducing the gender gap of entrepreneurial intention and exit rates
• Ease of doing entrepreneurship: resilience during disruption and recovery in the recession 2009-2010 and the pandemic 2020-2021

Regularly submitted papers

• International corporate governance: a science mapping approach [OPEN ACCESS]
• The impact of sustainable tourism on quality of life among the marginalised community in Mabul Island, Sabah, Malaysia

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Monetary Economics and Finance

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Monetary Economics and Finance are now available here for free:

• Differential impacts of fiscal consolidation policies under alternative monetary regimes: evidence from Indian economy
• Impact of novel coronavirus outbreak-related announcements on pharmaceutical stocks: empirical evidence from an emerging market
• The impact of low interest rates on the bank profitability
• The influence of market power on bank risk-taking in the Euro area countries during the inter-crises period

Research pick: Liner notes for the shipping forecast - "Expected utilities of liner shipping market trends: how can companies benefit?"

A study in the International Journal of Shipping and Transport Logistics has outlined strategies to help liner shipping companies navigate the global market more effectively. The work was undertaken by Umur Bucak of the Department of Maritime Business Administration at Kocaeli University in Turkey against a challenging seascape. The study identifies key trends that are shaping the sector and offers practical insights for how companies might maintain competitiveness and build bridges to span the many challenges they face.

Bucak focused on the impact of geopolitical tensions, environmental regulations, and crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The work emphasises how liner shipping companies must be able to change course quickly to benefit from changes in the market.

Using a combination of expected utilities theory and competitive advantage theory, Bucak was able to assess the prevalent market trends, which include digital transformation, decarbonisation initiatives, and supply chain integration. These trends are all key to making strategic decisions in the industry.

In order to determine effective strategies that would align with these trends, Bucak then used a hybrid methodology involving a fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). The work showed that the prioritization of rapid shipping between ports emerged as particularly beneficial and reflects the industry’s focus on speed and reliability amid rising freight rates and port congestion. The research also considers the economic implications of the trends identified by Bucak. By providing a framework for decision-making, his work could assist industry practitioners anchor themselves in a competitive market.

The study thus represents a significant step towards understanding and responding to changes within the liner shipping market. By using methodological innovations and theoretical frameworks, the research offers new and invaluable guidance for companies seeking to thrive amidst market shifts.

Bucak, U. (2024) ‘Expected utilities of liner shipping market trends: how can companies benefit?’, Int. J. Shipping and Transport Logistics, Vol. 18, No. 1, pp.92–110.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Materials Engineering Innovation

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Materials Engineering Innovation are now available here for free:

• Study of substitution of carburised 16MnCr5 used in sub-axis of machine tool spindle by carbonitrided steel
• A study on the sustainable machining of AISI 630 stainless steel under minimum quantity lubrication
• Analysis optimisation of machining aspects and wear characterisation of Al6061 reinforced with SiC and graphite
• Effect of elevated temperature on indentation response of glass/epoxy laminates hybridised with milled fibres
• An experimental evaluation of mechanical properties and tribological behaviour of A380/NanohBN composite
• Investigations on wear behaviour of Al 6061-GNP metal matrix composites by using Taguchi L16 approach

Special issue published: "Contemporary Issues in Commerce, Technology and Sustainable Development"

International Journal of Business and Globalisation 36(2/3) 2024

• Investigating effect of social media advice and corporate information on retail investors' decisions in stock market
• Is ESG disclosure related to corporate performance? Empirical evidence from Indian companies
• Examining non-performing assets in financial institutions in India
• The effect of perceived philanthropic activities of corporate organisations on consumer's purchase intention
• Measuring the impact of eco-friendly or green marketing on buying behaviour of Indian consumers
• Building a sustainable relationship between customers and marketers
• Moderating role of the 'type of hotel' on the relationship between human resource practices and job satisfaction in the hotel sector in India: a PLS-based SEM approach
• Group cohesiveness and conformity as determinants of choice of promotions - an empirical study
• Impact of product types and shopping incidence on perceptions of customer's e-tailing quality
• Value co-creation through customer engagement in virtual communities for product innovation
• Investigating the best attributes in selection of e-tailer for purchasing footwear: a conjoint approach

Additional papers

• Bestination: an approach to 'sustainable' networking for Buddhist entrepreneurs
• Eastern philosophies and employee retention in emerging Southeast Asian economies - the case of Vietnam

Research pick: Red, red wine data for me - "Economic performance of wine production in EU: a multi-indicator comparative analysis"

A study of economic indicators in the wine industry across the European Union has shown significant variation between member states. Many of these are influenced by factors such as vineyard size and specialization.

Writing in the Journal for Global Business Advancement, a team from Cyprus explains how they used the Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) methodology to examine the economic indicators crucial for assessing the financial health of wine-producing farms. Aleksandra Figurek, Alkis Thrassou, and Demetris Vrontis of the University of Nicosia in Cyprus, EU, focused on metrics such as farm net value added (FNVA), FNVA per annual working unit (AWU), farm net income (FNI), and family farm income (FFI/FWU) for wine producers participating in the FADN. The team’s analysis provides insights into productivity and profitability by looking at the ratio between total output and input utilization, including intermediate consumption and specific expenses.

Despite this diversity between EU member states, the FADN methodology uses a standardized framework for analysing financial performance. It is this that allowed the team to identify best practices and areas for improvement, which could be useful for various stakeholders across the wine industry in different parts of the EU

The transition to the Farm Sustainability Data Network (FSDN) for many wine producers highlights the opportunity to expand data collection efforts to include environmental and social practices. This integrated approach enables a more comprehensive assessment of agricultural performance, which could help stakeholder decision-making at the local, micro, and macro levels. Additionally, the implementation of the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) (2023 to 2027), which prioritizes environmental sustainability and support for smaller farmers, aims to align agricultural growth with ecological and technological goals while enhancing competitiveness. The data analysis could thus help evaluate the efficacy of the CAP.

This research shows how new data methodologies can be used to study what programs are improving economic performance in wine production across the EU. By using such data-driven insights and seeing how this fits in with the ever-changing policy frameworks, the EU wine industry might at once address the challenges it faces and capitalize on the opportunities for sustainable growth and competitiveness in the global market.

Figurek, A., Thrassou, A. and Vrontis, D. (2023) ‘Economic performance of wine production in EU: a multi-indicator comparative analysis’, J. Global Business Advancement, Vol. 16, No. 1, pp.3–30.

Associate Prof. Xin Wang appointed as new Editor in Chief of International Journal of Signal and Imaging Systems Engineering

Associate Prof. Xin Wang from Shenyang Jianzhu University in China has been appointed to take over editorship of the International Journal of Signal and Imaging Systems Engineering.

Special issue published: "Exploring Business Research in Multifaceted Dimensions of Contemporary Organisational Paradigms in Emerging Countries"

Journal for Global Business Advancement 16(1) 2023

• Economic performance of wine production in EU: a multi-indicator comparative analysis
• Employee engagement of millennials and non-millennials: role of organisational culture
• Effects of sustainability orientation, integration, and value addition on food cold chain performance: a Thai perspective
• Investing in student well-being: how cyclic meditation can reduce stress and foster mindfulness in academic institutions: a case from India
• Exploring teaching assistants' employment in higher education: a case of Qatar University
• Investigating the influence of adaptation behaviours on continuance intention to use ride-hailing applications: a case from the drivers' perspective

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Advanced Mechatronic Systems

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Advanced Mechatronic Systems are now available here for free:

• Suppress of effects in steady state of disturbance and parameter deviations of generalised minimum variance control
• Robust H2/H∞ DPDC dynamic output feedback controller for an uncertain tensor product model of statically unstable missile
• An automatic artificial pancreas based on AOA-VPTIDF control algorithm
• Fractional order adaptive MRAC controller design for high-accuracy position control of an industrial robot arm
• Swing-up design of double inverted pendulum by using passive control method based on operator theory

Research pick: Masculine nuance in advertising - "A qualitative study of consumer perceptions about masculinity in advertising: content, sentiment, and discourse analysis"

A recent study in the International Journal of Learning and Change has looked at how consumers interpret masculinity in advertising. The study reveals some intriguing findings and sheds light on how active engagement is shaped by an analysis of the portrayals of masculinity in advertisements on the well-known video-sharing platform YouTube.

Toms Kreicbergs and Deniss Ščeulovs of Riga Technical University in Riga, Latvia, took YouTube comments as a source of qualitative data and found that consumers consider various factors beyond the immediate presentation. Such factors included the broader cultural context and comparisons with the approach of others in the advertising world. Surprisingly, the study highlights that the depiction of masculinity often takes precedence over the advertised product itself. This suggests that the marketing is often more important than the product itself in influencing consumer perception and purchasing intention.

At a time when societal norms surrounding masculinity are evolving, it is interesting to note that traditional depictions persist alongside emerging ideals that otherwise challenge gender stereotypes. With increasing awareness and acceptance of diverse gender identities, consumers are scrutinizing advertisements for their portrayal of masculinity, seeking authenticity and inclusivity and by turn increasingly making their buying decisions in this context.

The research suggests that humour can effectively convey traditional masculinity without eliciting negative reactions. However, there is a need to embrace progressive and diverse representations as these are increasingly important to society and so to advertisers hoping to sit easily within the evolving cultural world. To be successful, advertisers need to write copy and produce advertisements that resonate with what we might refer to as the modern audience. Indeed, brands that successfully navigate this fragmented landscape might ultimately build stronger connections with consumers who value authenticity and representation and become loyal followers of said brands and perhaps even word-of-mouth advocates of those brands and what they perceive them to stand for.

In contrast to what one might expect, the research indicates that on the whole consumers react positively to the portrayal of masculinity in advertising. The finding suggests that such advertisements might serve as a cultural touchstone for those who see them. This finding challenges previous assumptions about consumer attitudes toward gender portrayals in marketing and underscores the evolving nature of societal norms. There is thus a need for a more comprehensive approach to understanding consumer attitudes by incorporating surveys, focus groups, and expert interviews alongside existing methods.

Kreicbergs, T. and Ščeulovs, D. (2024) ‘A qualitative study of consumer perceptions about masculinity in advertising: content, sentiment, and discourse analysis’, Int. J. Learning and Change, Vol. 16, Nos. 2/3, pp.327–348.

Special issue published: "Contemporary Issues in Business and Management"

International Journal of Learning and Change 16(2/3) 2024

• Use of copyrighted works in business
• Risk management maturity enhancement in healthcare through the application of quality management principles
• Communication, leadership and team motivation as drivers of success in project management - development of a conceptual framework
• Digital media and organisational environment as main influence factors for e-leadership
• Impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on an aviation company: change management approach
• Ambidexterity in resilience: a multilevel approach
• Sustainable commercial agency agreements in civil law and common law
• Influence of business model and marketing environment of Thai gems and jewellery during COVID-19 pandemic: opportunities and challenges
• Towards sustainable fiduciary duties in private law
• Megatrends and ethics in future project management - how project leaders can benefit from their potential
• A qualitative study of consumer perceptions about masculinity in advertising: content, sentiment, and discourse analysis

Special issue published: "Foreseeing and Designing Intercultural Dialogic Sustainability Policies"

International Journal of Foresight and Innovation Policy 16(2/3/4) 2023

• Editorial: Foresight for democratising Russia?
• Individual and societal learning allow globally financed developmental cooperation
• Citizenship education in world risk society: an evolutionary perspective
• The hegemony in artificial intelligence technology: a depiction through patent analysis
• Actual strategic directions for the development of Russian fuel and energy companies to ensure the country's economic security
• Dedicated energy crops: support policies in Europe and in post-war Ukraine
• Low carbon transformation of energy, transport, industry, and agriculture companies in Ukraine
• Size does matter: South Africa's automotive industry during and post the COVID-19 pandemic
• Health foresight: the positive effects of strength training
• Shaping decentralised energy policies while thinking openly about future technologies
• True empathy, part 5: case studies
• Futures of science, technology, engineering and mathematics including computer science education: what will the crossroad with liberal arts look like?
• Strategic foresight for competitive advantage: a future-oriented business and competitive analysis techniques selection model
• Complexity and uncertainty in a world of emergence part 1

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Technoentrepreneurship

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Technoentrepreneurship are now available here for free:

• Intrapreneurial behaviours and the innovative performance of technology enterprises: employee characteristics' moderating effect
• Effects of social media adoption on SME performance: the moderating role of business strategy
• Driving factors for the use of business intelligence and analytics among Indonesian startups
• How to choose the most suitable ERP for an SME: the ERP-SSM methodological proposal

Research pick: AI food detective - "Food ingredient recognition model via image and textual feature extraction and hybrid classification strategy"

Research in the International Journal of Reasoning-based Intelligent Systems discusses a new approach to the identification of ingredients in photographs of food. The work will be useful in our moving forward on food safety endeavours. Sharanabasappa A. Madival and Shivkumar S. Jawaligi of Sharnbasva University in Kalburgi, Karanataka, India, used a two-stage process of feature extraction and classification to improve on previous approaches to ingredient identification in this context.

The team explain that their approach used Scale-Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) and Convolutional Neural Network (CNN)-based deep features to extract both image and textual features. Once extracted, the features are fed into a hybrid classifier, which merges Neural Network (NN) and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) models. The team explains that precision of their model can be further refined through the application of the Chebyshev Map Evaluated Teamwork Optimization (CME-TWO) algorithm. All of this leads to an accurate identification of the ingredients.

Food management in a globalised world is critical to worldwide supply chains, to food security, traceability and detection of fake food and food fraud. We, as consumers and diners, need to know that the ingredients in the food we eat, especially in the context of diverse dietary preferences and health considerations, are valid.

The team found that their approach works more effectively than current ingredient identification systems. Specifically, they demonstrated that the HC + CME-TWO model performs the best by a large margin, which can thus be taken as indicating a significant advancement in this area. It is the use of a hybrid classifier and the fine-tuning of weightings using the CME-TWO algorithm that leads to the marked improvement in accuracy and reliability. Moreover, the team says that there is still room for improvement in terms of shortening processing times through optimization.

The work focuses on food safety but could be used to address the challenges facing regulators and others attempting to ensure food authenticity, especially among high-value foods.

Madival, S.A. and Jawaligi, S.S. (2024) ‘Food ingredient recognition model via image and textual feature extraction and hybrid classification strategy’, Int. J. Reasoning-based Intelligent Systems, Vol. 16, No. 1, pp.74–90.

Special issue published: "23rd Korean Thermophysical Properties (KSTP) Conference"

International Journal of Nanotechnology 21(3) 2024

• Experimental investigation on the thermophysical properties and heat storage/retrieval studies of [HMIM]+ cation-based ionic liquids for energy storage application
• Influence of convective heat transfer on the AC temperature amplitude of a microheater on glass or polyimide substrate
• Thermal contact resistance measurement between EXG and polyimide substrates under varying pressure and thermal interfacial material
• In-situ turbidity sensor system for residential water quality monitoring
• Wireless sensing for monitoring nuclear power equipment
• Effect of thermal contact resistance on heat generation in conduction-cooled binary current lead
• Thermal analysis of a 3 T cryogen-free superconducting magnet for electromagnetic property measurement system
• Development of thermal conductivity measurement system based on cryocooler for broad temperature range
• Evaluation of the glass transition temperature of EPDM using a dynamic mechanical analyser
• Temperature and enthalpy of fusion calibration of Calvet calorimeter from -150°C to 156°C

Research pick: Does everybody hurt? AI detects depression online - "Depression prediction and therapy recommendation using machine learning technique"

A study in the International Journal of Computational Systems Engineering has introduced a new approach to identifying depression through the analysis of online comments, particularly on social media platforms, including Reddit, one of the earliest and still-popular microblogging systems. K.G. Saranya, C.H. Babitha Reddy, M. Bhavyasree, M. Rubika, and E. Varsha of PSG College of Technology in Coimbatore, India, have used machine learning techniques, specifically the BERT model, to pick out signs of depression in the language patterns used online discussions.

The BERT (Bidirectional Encoder Representations from Transformers) model is a type of natural language processing (NLP) model developed by researchers at Google in 2018. It belongs to the family of Transformer models, which have become increasingly popular in NLP tasks due to their effectiveness in capturing long-range dependencies in text.

In contemporary health discussions, mental wellbeing has come to the fore, especially since the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic. The current research could fill critical gaps in conventional mental health diagnostics. Where traditional approaches remain challenging, there is a need for more wide-ranging methods that might be used to identify issues as they arise without the need to head into the clinic for full-blown assessment prior to a healthcare intervention.

The BERT model has promise in accurately distinguishing between individuals exhibiting signs of depression and those who are not. The team explains that their approach integrates collaborative filtering techniques to recommend tailored therapies based on identified depression patterns It has an accuracy rate of 87 percent which obviously leaves room for improvement, which is where further investigation or help would come into its own.

The implications of this research are far-reaching. By harnessing the power of AI and computational methods, early diagnosis of mental health problems, specifically depression in this instance, could become more accessible and efficient. The ability to detect depression through online interactions could free up healthcare workers to work with more challenging cases, but more importantly for the individual, allow earlier diagnosis and intervention to support them when they face, previously unrecognised mental problems.

The next step will be to expand the dataset to other online communities with different userbases, ethos, and approach to allow accurate and applicable diagnoses to be made essentially independently of the platform being analysed. The team will continue to refine the algorithms used and thus to improve accuracy and develop approaches to offer personalized interventions and treatments tailored to the individual.

Saranya, K.G., Reddy, C.H.B., Bhavyasree, M., Rubika, M. and Varsha, E. (2024) ‘Depression prediction and therapy recommendation using machine learning technique’, Int. J. Computational Systems Engineering, Vol. 8, Nos. 1/2, pp.120–127.

International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business indexed by Clarivate's Emerging Sources Citation Index

Inderscience is pleased to announce that the International Journal of Entrepreneurship and Small Business has been indexed by Clarivate's Emerging Sources Citation Index.

The journal's Editor in Chief, Prof. Leo Dana, thanks his editorial board and IJESB's reviewers for the parts they played in reaching this significant milestone, as well as all the authors who've submitted their research to the journal.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles are now available here for free:

• Modelling and analysis of electric two-wheeler with novel planetary gear box transmission
• Comprehensive review on charging solution of electric vehicle - an internet of things-based approach
• An exploration on electric vehicle purchase intention
• Criteria and integration limitations for cells and thermal management in EV battery pack design: a review

Free sample articles newly available from Journal for Global Business Advancement

The following sample articles from the Journal for Global Business Advancement are now available here for free:

• Poverty alleviation among Vietnamese ethnic minorities: a behavioural economics perspective
• The influence of employees' perceived work performance on the pro-environmental behaviours: the role of organisational identification in the Vietnamese hospitality industry
• The influence of career adaptability on well-being indicators and job performance
• Understanding the influence of user adaptation on the continuance intention towards ride-hailing services: the perspective of management support
• Determinants of the budgetary transparency of public finance in Thailand's educational sector
• Internationalisation and the performance of German firms

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Reasoning-based Intelligent Systems

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Reasoning-based Intelligent Systems are now available here for free:

• Cluster quality analysis based on SVD, PCA-based k-means and NMF techniques: an online survey data
• Face recognition algorithm of sprinters based on sliding data camera measurement
• Entity extraction based on the combination of information entropy and TF-IDF
• Study on privacy node encryption method for wireless sensor networks based on edge computing
• A decision tree-based method for detecting middle school students' behaviour characteristics in online English learning
• Location distribution detection of urban drainage pipeline based on deep learning feature
• Study on behaviour anomaly detection method of English online learning based on feature extraction
• Recognition method of football players' shooting action based on Bayesian classification
• Detection method of e-commerce cluster consumption behaviour based on data feature mining
• An intelligent recommendation method of personalised tour route based on association rules
• Named entity recognition in Odia language: a rule-based approach
• A recognition method of learning behaviour in English online classroom based on feature data mining
• Image detail enhancement of two-dimensional animation scene based on dual domain decomposition

Research pick: Watcher of the Spies - "Enabling secure modern web browsers against cache-based timing attacks"

Web applications increasingly underpin other technologies and systems not least cloud computing services and the Internet of Things networks, smart infrastructure, and much more. Safeguarding user privacy on various systems and networks that use web applications has emerged as a critical concern among computer security experts.

Among the many threats they have to address and defeat are so-called cache side-channel attacks within virtualization systems as these are gaining prominence and being exploited widely by malicious and criminal third parties. Commonly, such attacks will allow the third party to steal a cryptographic key from a user and thus gain access to any data protected by that key.

Writing in the International Journal of Security and Networks, Sangeetha Ganesan of the Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Science at the R.M.K College of Engineering and Technology in Tamil Nadu, India, explains how the almost ubiquitous web development programming language JavaScript enables access to various APIs and sensors. It is the prevalence of this language, however, that leads to privacy concerns where vulnerabilities are found and exploited by malicious third-parties. For instance, cache side-channel attacks exploit shared cache memory to allow a third party to illicitly access private, personal or otherwise sensitive information held within the cache from various users on the system by exploiting vulnerabilities in Javascript.

Unlike more conventional threats, cache side-channel attacks work by detecting the subtle differences in access times between cached and uncached values to allow the third party to extract information. Some of the malware available to such third parties is very fast and effective and so countermeasures are urgently needed to protect vulnerable systems from abuse.

To address this growing problem, Ganesan has developed the Browser Watcher system. This security solution can defend against time-based cache side-channel attacks. It works by prioritising the security of the putative victim’s secret keys. When it detects an ongoing attack, the system promptly flushes the Last Level Cache, which effectively thwarts any attempt to steal data from the cache. This proactive approach might lead to a temporary drop in computing performance, but that is a price worth paying for securing one’s data when under attack.

Ganesan, S. (2024) ‘Enabling secure modern web browsers against cache-based timing attacks’, Int. J. Security and Networks, Vol. 19, No. 1, pp.43–54.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Mechanisms and Robotic Systems

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Mechanisms and Robotic Systems are now available here for free:

• Study of the dynamic interaction between planetary vehicles and planets soft soil
• Analytical solution of a five-degree-of-freedom inverse kinematics problem for the handling mechanism of an agricultural robot
• Modelling and design of tracked mobile climbing robots on non-planar surfaces
• A review study on bio-inspired robotic fish

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Enterprise Network Management

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Enterprise Network Management are now available here for free:

• Optimisation of drilling process parameters of aluminium matrix composites (LM5/ZrO2)
• Mobile wallet app engagement and word of mouth recommendation: an exploration of antecedents
• Role of supply chain performance in global value chain creation in COVID-19: a partial least square modelling framework for emerging economy
• Digital payment apps: perception and adoption - a study of higher education students
• Understanding the interaction among motivators of entrepreneurial aspiration of university students in India
• Distribution and transportation model for COVID-19 vaccine
• A multi-criteria decision (fuzzy) approach for IoT adoption in developing nation: a study during COVID-19
• Longitudinal assessment of green procurement practices adopted by manufacturing firms in an emerging economy using multivariate approach
• Adoption of Lean Six Sigma to improve safety culture - a case study of Indian manufacturing unit
• Prioritising and testing the integrated behavioural model of organisational citizenship behaviour through fuzzy AHP and structural equation modelling

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Data Analysis Techniques and Strategies

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Data Analysis Techniques and Strategies are now available here for free:

• Using free open-source tools for text visualisation over unstructured corpus effectively
• Study of Python libraries for NLP
• Prognosis of urban environs using time series analysis for preventing overexploitation using artificial intelligence
• The impact of online trading from a personal and technical perspective on trade stocks in emerging markets
• Improving the accuracy of real field pomegranate fruit diseases detection and visualisation using convolution neural networks and grad-CAM
• Effect of noise uncertainty during spectrum sensing for cognitive radio ad hoc networks
• Analysis of PCS-QoL to investigate the holistic health for sustainable way of living in smart cities of 21st century

Research pick: Getting with the electronic beat - "Adaptive classification method of electronic music based on improved decision tree"

A new method for classifying electronic music has been developed by researchers in China. The approach offers a novel solution in an age of exploding digital content to curating music libraries and streaming services. Writing in the International Journal of Arts and Technology, Hongyuan Wu and Lin Zhu of the College of Music at Chong’qing Normal University, explain how such services are currently overwhelmed in terms of valid classification methods.

Traditional approaches are simplistic, based on labelling, and not keeping up with modern use and tastes. The team points out that classifying electronic music by genre is particularly difficult as this broad genre has wide and diffuse boundaries between different styles that are often highly subjective and influenced by cultural nuances.

The team’s new approach uses a complex decision tree framework to achieve high accuracy and speed up processing times, making a leap from 33-and-a-third to 45, you might say! The process starts with noise removal using principal component analysis and then segments the track into small chunks. The features from each chunk are then extracted using a method known as short-time Fourier transform. The team then fine-tunes their decision tree model to achieve the most precise classification possible.

Indeed, their tests have shown that their method can be very effective, with a classification accuracy up to 98.6 percent. The implications go far beyond academic interest, with potential applications across the music and other industries. Music streaming services and online libraries rely heavily on accurate genre classification and could take advantage of this new approach to allow them to organize their collections and market music more subtly to their users. Users might include everyday music fans or those involved in the media or elsewhere who need specific styles of music to accompany their creative outputs.

For instance, the classification approach should make it easier for everyday users to explore music, discover new sounds or retrieve golden oldies. In marketing and advertising and other areas, understanding music preferences based on genre classification is critical for targeted campaigns based on music taste.

Wu, H. and Zhu, L. (2024) ‘Adaptive classification method of electronic music based on improved decision tree’, Int. J. Arts and Technology, Vol. 15, No. 1, pp.1–12.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Computational Systems Engineering

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Computational Systems Engineering are now available here for free:

• Algorithmic and meta-algorithmic machine learning natural language processing approaches for stakeholder requirements classification
• Reproduction of humanness based on eXtended intelligence: concept of artificial personality and its mechanism
• Integrated online and offline scheduling of real-time tasks using a co-processor scheduling unit towards dual-mode kernels
• Ensuring project resilience and public services in a pandemic context: two French case studies
• The future of spectrum management - conciliating spectrum allocation, spectral efficiency and spectrum monetisation

Research pick: Tradition and technology meeting musically - "Gamelan, technology, and controversy"

A study in the International Journal of Arts and Technology has looked at the relationship between traditional Javanese music and the introduction of technology and western instrumentation into this genre. The work undertaken by Aris Setiawan of the Faculty of Performing Arts at the Indonesia Institute of the Arts in Surakarta, Indonesia, focuses on the integration of advancements in music technology within the context of gamelan music. The research offers insights into the opportunities and challenges offered by this novel fusion in the context of tradition and preservation and innovation in Javanese musical heritage.

Setiawan explains that central to his study is the emergence of campursari, this is the emerging musical genre that blends traditional Javanese gamelan instruments with Western counterparts. The emergence of campursari has been embraced by many music fans and labelled garbage by those worried about a loss of cultural authenticity and the preservation of traditional music practices in Indonesia. Raging debates of a similar sort have been experienced in other parts of the world where modern instruments and playing have clashed with the classical. Purists commonly eschew the fusion, but others embrace it and find the styles and sounds that emerge to be engaging, challenging, and above all else, enjoyable.

Campursari’s incorporation of Western instruments has raised questions about tonal clashes and the impact on the authenticity of gamelan music. However, beyond aesthetic considerations, Setiawan’s work explores the broader implications of technology’s role in cultural preservation. He has used a phenomenological approach to investigate the individual and group response to the integration of technology into gamelan music development. A particular focus was on the modern multi-pad percussion technology and how it sits with traditional gamelan instruments, such as the kendang.

Setiawan suggests that technology, particularly the multi-pad percussion device, can complement traditional instruments like the kendang, known for its complexity. The fusion might allow many more people to enjoy creating music without extensive training. Such a notion does indeed move away from the classical or traditional ethos, but it will not detract from the approach of those who wish to continue in the classical tradition. Just as Mozart and Motorhead can sit alongside each other on an esoteric playlist, so too might the multi-pad and the kendang sit together rhythmically in this new musical form.

However, despite the new aesthetic, there remain concerns among some critics and scholars that there could be an erosion of tradition and a loss of cultural practices associated with traditional music performance. A balanced approach to allow the integration of technology into traditional music education is needed. Ultimately, the goal will be to preserve the rich tradition of gamelan music while allowing musical innovators to bang their own drum and perhaps blow their own trumpet when they do so.

Setiawan, A. (2024) ‘Gamelan, technology, and controversy’, Int. J. Arts and Technology, Vol. 15, No. 1, pp.38–60.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Manufacturing Technology and Management are now available here for free:

• Evaluating the status of implementation of AMTs in SMEs located in Northern India: a survey of 202 North Indian SMEs
• Mathematical modelling and numerical simulation of direct extrusion process for different cross-section of dies
• Lean bundles and operational performance: the moderating effect of operational absorptive capacity
• A genetic algorithm-based optimisation model for designing an efficient, sustainable supply chain network under disruption risks

Research pick: Getting sniffy about shopping - "Olfactory marketing as a technological innovation tool for the Indian retail industry – a study of Shoppers Stop retail store in Kolkata, India"

In retail, fragrance cues are nothing to be sniffed at. Indeed, the scent of vanilla, baking bread, even fresh linen, can affect customer behaviour, according to a study in the International Journal of Indian Culture and Business Management.

In the competitive realm of retail, understanding consumer decision-making is very important. A study by Shuvam Chatterjee and Pawel Bryla of the University of Lodz in Poland has looked at so-called olfactory marketing – the strategic use of scents in the retail environments – to see how much influence they might have on the shopping experience and how much customers spend in those shops. The team focused on a Kolkata shopping mall for their case study.

In many ways, our sense of smell is often perceived as a lesser sense when compared with sight and hearing. However, our sense of smell is very deep-rooted in our evolution and connects to what we might think of as primitive responses and behaviour. Recent research suggests it significantly affects our emotions and memories, and, in the shopping context, putatively on purchase behaviour. Fragrance cues, such as the smell of fresh bread in a retail setting, can evoke a strong emotional response, influencing product recognition, recall, and purchase intent.

Fresh linen and cotton blossom scents are often used to evoke feelings of cleanliness, relaxation, and comfort, Citrus is considered invigorating and refreshing. Vanilla is warm and sweet and evokes feelings of nostalgia and relaxation. Lavender, eucalyptus, and chamomile are known for being reminiscent of calming and soothing feelings. Sandalwood, on the other hand, has a rich, woody aroma that is perceived as quite exotic and often used in luxury boutiques and high-end hotels. Oceanic scents are reminiscent of sea air and commonly used in spas and wellness centres.

The IJICBM work shows a direct correlation between the presence of fragrance cues in the shopping mall and customer behaviour. If fragrance is coupled with other environmental factors such as music, the layout of the shop, and the ambient temperature, there can be a strong effect on how long a customer browses in a given shop and ultimately how much money they spend. In addition, the team determined that while age influenced purchasing decisions in this context, gender did not seem to affect how much time or money was spent.

Shop managers and marketers could benefit from working on olfactory marketing. By enhancing the shopping experience in this way, the researchers say that it is possible to boost the emotional connection with the brands on sale and perhaps even improve long-term customer loyalty. Of course, fragrance selection should be done with care as there may well be odours that could negatively affect the perception and behaviour of some customers and counter the benefits achieved with other shoppers who have responded positively.

Chatterjee, S. and Bryla, P. (2024) ‘Olfactory marketing as a technological innovation tool for the Indian retail industry – a study of Shoppers Stop retail store in Kolkata, India’, Int. J. Indian Culture and Business Management, Vol. 31, No. 3, pp.261–273.

International Journal of Sustainable Aviation indexed by Scopus

We are pleased to report that the International Journal of Sustainable Aviation has been indexed by Scopus. Inderscience's Editorial Office congratulates the journal's Editor in Chief, Prof. T. Hikmet Karakoc, along with his Associate Editors and Editorial Board.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Bioinformatics Research and Applications

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Bioinformatics Research and Applications are now available here for free:

• Goat casein peptides and their potential through an in silico approach
• CoSec: a hub of online tools for comparing secondary structure elements
• Foetal weight estimation with descriptive statistics and correlation analysis of significant ultrasonographic parameter and fuzzy artmap classifier
• Identifying breast cancer molecular class using integrated feature selection and deep learning model
• Prediction of essential genes using single nucleotide compositional features in genomes of bacteria: a machine learning-based analysis

Free open access article available: "Autonomous assembly and disassembly by cognition using hybrid assembly cells"

The following paper, "Autonomous assembly and disassembly by cognition using hybrid assembly cells" (International Journal of Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems 16(4) 2023), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Research pick: Hybridising European industry - "Autonomous assembly and disassembly by cognition using hybrid assembly cells"

European industries could soon benefit from a novel approach that introduces hybrid-autonomous assembly and disassembly systems to tackle the many pressing environmental concerns and enhance production flexibility. That is the suggestion of research published in the International Journal of Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems. The new approach looks to integrate autonomous robotics systems with manual assembly stations, which could lead to improved adaptability and efficiency in a wide range of manufacturing processes.

Uwe Frieß, Lena Oberfichtner, Arvid Hellmich, Rayk Fritzsche, and Steffen Ihlenfeldt of the Fraunhofer Institute for Machine Tools and Forming Technology IWU, Germany, point out that mounting environmental, social and political pressures are driving change across industry. The need to achieve carbon neutrality and have a less detrimental impact on the environment are both high on the agenda. There is also a pressing need to reduce the risks associated with reliance on single suppliers especially where resources that are not widely available or are difficult to obtain are required. Overall, the traditional landscape of industrial assembly is changing.

The concept of hybrid-autonomous systems enables batch-individual task allocation and dynamic planning. In other words, workers use their knowledge and skills in concert with computers and robotic systems to determine which tasks need to be undertaken at what stage of a process and whether by people or robots doing the jobs. If there is a sudden change in requirements, the system can adjust quickly to keep the processes running smoothly. This, the research suggests, could address many of the challenges posed by fluctuating demand and diverse product specifications.

It is the adaptability of these systems that is their defining feature. By seamlessly blending autonomous robots with conventional manual labour, different industries can gain flexibility and efficiency and not compromise on stringent production requirements.

Hybrid-autonomous assembly systems might also integrate high-performance camera systems, pattern recognition, and artificial intelligence enabling real-time monitoring and adjustment of assembly processes. This is a marked departure from conventional automation. The promise is not simply economic. By reducing reliance on single suppliers and optimizing resource utilization, hybrid-autonomous systems could improve sustainability in manufacturing.

Frieß, U., Oberfichtner, L., Hellmich, A., Fritzsche, R. and Ihlenfeldt, S. (2023) ‘Autonomous assembly and disassembly by cognition using hybrid assembly cells’, Int. J. Mechatronics and Manufacturing Systems, Vol. 16, No. 4, pp.381–398.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Soft Computing

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Artificial Intelligence and Soft Computing are now available here for free:

• PigB: intelligent pig breeds classification using supervised machine learning algorithms
• CovFakeBot: a machine learning based chatbot using ensemble learning technique for COVID-19 fake news detection
• Statistical growth prediction analysis of rice crop with pixel-based mapping technique
• Machine learning classification models for student placement prediction based on skills
• An efficient hybrid approach for the prediction of epilepsy using CNN with LSTM

Research pick: Mapping corporate governance - "International corporate governance: a science mapping approach"

An analysis of the research literature published between 1974 and 2019 provides insight into how international corporate governance research evolved over the decades before the covid pandemic.

Jaime Guerrero-Villegas and Mar Bornay-Barrachina of the Department of Management at the University of Cádiz, and Leticia Pérez-Calero and Mónica Santana of the Department of Management and Marketing at the Pablo de Olavide University in Seville, Spain, used sophisticated bibliometric techniques to outline changes in the themes and theories within the field.

The team writes in the European Journal of International Management that the earlier research papers tended to focus on Agency Theory and homed in on the impact of risk-taking on the decision-making processes. In more recent work, there was a transition towards the exploration of the human and social aspects of governance. In those papers, theories such as upper echelons and dependence theory gained more prominence underscoring the importance of board composition and executive dynamics in how corporate strategy is shaped. This was particularly relevant in the context of international commerce.

The team has identified four distinct periods, with the more recent period, 2016 to 2019, having the greatest diversity of research themes. Indeed, the findings suggest that there has been a growing interest in understanding how boards of directors influence the internationalization efforts of companies. In addition, topics such as corporate social responsibility (CSR) and the challenges faced by family-owned businesses in international markets came to the fore in the later research analysed.

The analysis also shows that while traditional views regarding board independence have declined over the years there has been an increase in research into board diversity, in particular regarding gender. Those studies suggest that company boards with diverse membership see improved strategic decision-making, approaches to market entry, and the fostering of innovation.

The EJIM review and analysis of almost half a century of research into International Corporate Governance reveals how it has evolved in that time. The findings have implications for future research as well as international management practice.

Guerrero-Villegas, J., Pérez-Calero, L., Santana, M. and Bornay-Barrachina, M. (2024) ‘International corporate governance: a science mapping approach’, European J. International Management, Vol. 22, No. 4, pp.616–646.

Free open access article available: "International corporate governance: a science mapping approach"

The following paper, "International corporate governance: a science mapping approach" (European Journal of International Management  22(4) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Security and Networks

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Security and Networks are now available here for free:

• A blockchain-based NFV market in the multi-node edge computing network
• A slice-based encryption scheme for IPFS
• MB-CIM: a multi-round budgeted competitive influence maximisation
• A multi-theory model to evaluate new factors influencing information security compliance
• An ex-convict recognition method based on text mining
• Security in smart home environment: issues, challenges, and countermeasures - a survey

Free open access article available: "Implicit and social learning theory: an explanation of why experienced medical representatives have higher engagement and performance"

The following paper, "Implicit and social learning theory: an explanation of why experienced medical representatives have higher engagement and performance" (International Journal of Business Innovation and Research 33(3) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Research pick: Improving miner problems with safety research - "Understanding the mining safety research field: exploring safety measures and programs in international research"

In the search for safer working conditions in the mining sector, a recent review published in the International Journal of Mining and Mineral Engineering has highlighted what might become a rich seam for future safety endeavours. The study, which looked at 54 research articles, not only categorizes existing safety measures but also identifies gaps in the existing literature, which could lead to more targeted investigations.

Erik Sundström and Magnus Nygren of the Department of Social Sciences, Technology and Arts at Luleå University of Technology in Luleå, Sweden, have examined closely the various safety initiatives within the global mining industry, uncovering ten important themes. These themes encapsulate the breadth of safety measures covered in the research literature. Foremost among these themes is the cultivation of a safety culture and the promotion of safe behaviour among workers. This underpins the significance of fostering a more proactive approach to safety within mining operations worldwide.

However, beyond simply categorizing existing strategies, the work also has the potential to shape how future research is planned and carried out. By homing in on overlooked subjects, such as the influence of societal norms on safety strategies and changes in safety culture, the team offers a guide for more nuanced investigations in the field.

Given that mining operations now increasingly use digitalization and automation, the study emphasizes that there is a need to focus on where technological advancements and worker safety meet. Understanding how innovations affect safety measures is critical to ensuring the well-being of workers in the face of a rapidly changing industrial landscape. Additionally, the research suggests that there is a need for a deeper examination of how safety practices are shared efficiently across and among organizations.

The review offers a snapshot of current safety research in the mining sector but also lays the groundwork for advancing the field towards greater protection and sustainability. By addressing overlooked topics and embracing interdisciplinary perspectives, future studies could not only improve safety but also lead to a more sustainable mining industry.

Sundström, E. and Nygren, M. (2023) ‘Understanding the mining safety research field: exploring safety measures and programs in international research’, Int. J. Mining and Mineral Engineering, Vol. 14, No. 3, pp.315–340.

Free open access article available: "Understanding the mining safety research field: exploring safety measures and programs in international research"

The following paper, "Understanding the mining safety research field: exploring safety measures and programs in international research" (International Journal of Mining and Mineral Engineering 14(3) 2023), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Arts and Technology

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Arts and Technology are now available here for free:

• Emotion, enjoyment, empathy and identification with characters in cinema
• Application of motion capture technology in the digital recreation of Tang Dynasty mural art: a case study of Han Xiu's Tomb
• Can artistic research and new technology contribute to sustainable development? Acting on participatory management and urban regeneration policies to promote investment for sustainable growth
• Multimodal music emotion recognition method based on multi data fusion
• Present and past of competition versus sharing economy in the music live industry

Research pick: Social learning boosts drug rep performance - "Implicit and social learning theory: an explanation of why experienced medical representatives have higher engagement and performance"

Research in the International Journal of Business Innovation and Research has looked at the role of social learning with respect to the professional performance of medical representatives in Indonesia during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Daniel Kisahwan of PT. Eisai Indonesia in Jakarta, Alex Winarno of Telkom University in Bandung, and Deni Hermana of the University of Indonesia in Jawa Barat, Indonesia drew on implicit and social learning theories to explore how social environments affected engagement and success among medical representatives.

Medical representatives, colloquially known as drug reps, are pharmaceutical sales professionals who promote medical products and pharmaceuticals to healthcare workers. Their results shed new light on the factors influencing that drug rep performance during the pandemic and might help us understand what happens in a future pandemic and how the pharmaceutical industry might better respond during such a crisis.

The team surveyed more than 200 drug reps in the major cities of Indonesia cities. They found a significant correlation between the social context and the performance of these professionals. Social context in this sense refers to the relationships, dynamics, and influences within the professional networks and social circles of the drug reps.

The findings suggest that social learning played a crucial role in shaping how they operated and their successes and failures during this period. Role models within a drug rep’s social circles might guide how they operate in their job and whether or not they endeavoured to work to the best of their abilities during challenging times, such as the pandemic period. The study also highlights differences in social learning processes among experienced and inexperienced medical representatives, underlining the importance of individual attributes in determining how well they perform in their jobs.

The paper highlights a distinguishing feature of this research in that it involved the development of a framework through which the team could elucidate how work engagement and performance were influenced by social learning within pharmaceutical companies. This framework, based on the experiences and perspectives of those working in these environments, offers insights for human resource practices such as social learning, education, and training. The same framework might also find application beyond the pharmaceutical sector.

Kisahwan, D., Winarno, A. and Hermana, D. (2024) ‘Implicit and social learning theory: an explanation of why experienced medical representatives have higher engagement and performance’, Int. J. Business Innovation and Research, Vol. 33, No. 3, pp.418–432.

Free open access article available: "College student management based on machine vision and intelligent monitoring system"

The following paper, "College student management based on machine vision and intelligent monitoring system" (International Journal of Information and Communication Technology 24(2) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Special issue published: "Entrepreneurship, Business and Innovation in the Vuca World"

International Journal of Public Sector Performance Management 13(2) 2024

• Factor influencing consumer purchase intention for private label food products: a cross-sectional analysis
• An employee perspective towards talent management challenges in service sector
• Role of employee responsiveness towards customer affective commitment and customer satisfaction in VUCA environment: a study on insurance segment
• Predicting opinion leadership based on demographics - a study for mobile telecom services
• Temperament cardinal to psychological contract fulfilment: a review
• Population dynamics, environmental issues and public sector policies in South Asian economies: a panel co-integration analysis
• Roads of agricultural extension in India - intentions and realities
• Quality of work life, job involvement and job satisfaction of bus drivers of public sector transport in Punjab: a mediation analysis

Additional Papers

• Influence of strategic leadership on organisational performance in hospitals
• Government special purpose vehicles for public-private partnerships: stuck on the slow train in Khon Kaen City
• Results-based development planning in Vietnam: the impact of administrative leadership

Free open access article available: "Intelligent computer technology and its application in environmental art design"

The following paper, "Intelligent computer technology and its application in environmental art design" (International Journal of Information and Communication Technology 24(2) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Research pick: Gender diversity improves corporate social responsibility - "Board gender diversity and corporate social responsibility: evidence from India"

A study in the International Journal of Business Excellence examining the relationship between gender diversity on corporate boards and corporate social responsibility spending has found a positive correlation. The research focused on 738 firms across India listed on the national stock exchange over a seven-year period.

Corporate social responsibility refers to initiatives at a company that essentially take responsibility for the company’s impact on the environment and social well-being. These initiatives might encompass a wide range of actions, including reducing carbon emissions, improving labour practices, supporting community development, promoting diversity and inclusion, and engaging in philanthropy. The aim being to ensure that businesses operate in an ethical and sustainable manner and rather than considering success by looking at their financial bottom line, they can take into account their wider impact on society and the environment.

Sudheer Reddy, Aditya Jadhav, and Krishna Prasad of the T A Pai Management Institute in Manipal, Karnataka, India, found that the presence of women directors on corporate boards was correlated with greater spending on corporate social responsibility. This phenomenon was consistent even within loss-making firms, indicating that women board members may exert influence towards larger contributions regardless of financial performance.

Additionally, the research identifies a negative impact of board independence on such spending, suggesting that a higher degree of independence may hinder social responsibility initiatives. Conversely, a larger board size correlates with greater spending, hinting at the potential positive influence of diverse perspectives on corporate social initiatives.

The team’s findings highlight the role of gender diversity on corporate boards in shaping corporate social responsibility agendas, particularly in emerging markets such as that of India. Understanding the dynamics of board composition becomes crucial in the global business environment, which is increasingly prioritizing sustainability and so-called stakeholder engagement. This can fulfil ethical obligations but also boost brand reputation, mitigate risks, and improve long-term relationships with stakeholders, including the people who work with the companies up and down the supply chain, their customers, and, of course, the wider public.

Reddy, S., Jadhav, A. and Prasad, K. (2024) ‘Board gender diversity and corporate social responsibility: evidence from India‘, Int. J. Business Excellence, Vol. 32, No. 3, pp.380-393.

Associate Prof. Laura Broccardo appointed as new Editor in Chief of International Journal of Corporate Strategy and Social Responsibility

Associate Prof. Laura Broccardo from Università degli studi di Torino in Italy has been appointed to take over editorship of the International Journal of Corporate Strategy and Social Responsibility.

Editor's call for papers for the International Journal of Complexity in Leadership and Management

Prof. Marco Valeri (marco.valeri@unicusano.it), the new Editor in Chief of the International Journal of Complexity in Leadership and Management (IJCLM), invites articles on topics related to complexity in leadership, governance, management and organisational dynamics. This will help to provide a summary of current research along with predictions of where research is likely to go in the future on the subjects of complexity, nonlinearity, consciousness, intrinsic intelligence, collective intelligence, connectivity, autopoiesis, adaptation, diversity, self-organisation, emergence, dissipation, edge of chaos, butterfly effect and sustainability. Researchers and practitioners are invited to submit articles to IJCLM so that they can share their research on the subject.

List of topics

Topics include, but are not limited to, the following:

• Leadership sensitive to initial input, innovation and creativity
• Empirical research in frameworks and practices
• Internationalisation
• Cultural entrepreneurship
• Digitalisation and artificial intelligence
• Tourism management
• Nonlinear intelligence/thinking, knowledge management, organisational learning
• Complexity/intelligence mindset, intelligence paradigms
• Family business and financial performance
• Complexity adaptive dynamics, complexity/intelligence-centric processes
• Impact of managerial organisation on communities
• Developments and changes in managerial ideas
• Gender impact on organisations

Objectives

IJCLM is an international peer-reviewed journal. It aims to promote a deeper comprehension and to provide dialogue across country borders and cultures on the issues of complexity in leadership, governance and management. In this respect, it aims to serve as a platform where new philosophies, theories, empirical research findings and case studies can be published and shared internationally.

Readership

IJCLM is a vehicle which provides the latest findings, developments and thinking in management, governance and leadership to corporate leaders, company managers, business consultants, education leaders, national policy makers, military leaders, academics and researchers. IJCLM is also a forum through which different stakeholders worldwide can disseminate new thinking, theories, strategies and practices involved in complexity in leadership, governance and management, thus learning from each other's expertise and experience.

Contents

IJCLM publishes original papers in theoretical development and empirical research, case studies, discussion papers, conference reports, book reviews, commentaries and news dealing with the frontiers of complexity in leadership, governance and management. IJCLM welcomes worldwide contributions from academics, researchers, policy makers, corporate leaders, educators and business consultants and practitioners with interest in the topics specified.

Submission process

All articles for this journal must be submitted using the online submissions system available via the Submitting Articles tab at www.inderscience.com/ijcih. Please follow all instructions and author guidelines.

There are no charges for publishing with this journal, unless you require your article to be Open Access. You can find more information on OA here.

International Journal of Information and Operations Management Education announces winners of 2023 Best Paper and Best Reviewer Awards

Associate Prof. Luna Leoni, Editor in Chief of the International Journal of Information and Operations Management Education, is delighted to announce the following award winners:

• Best Paper Award 2023
  Assigned to Dr. Abeni El-Amin for the article "Leading the diversity and inclusion narrative through continuing professional education", due to the importance of the addressed topics, especially in the current socio-economic context and even more so in the educational setting.
• Best Reviewer Award 2023
  Assigned to Dr. Thomas Tiahrt for the crucial contributions and valuable suggestions provided for reviewed manuscripts.

Free open access article available: "Fracture constitutive study of spring-beam model applied to slurry anchor connection"

The following paper, "Fracture constitutive study of spring-beam model applied to slurry anchor connection" (International Journal of Wireless and Mobile Computing 26(2) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Research pick: Managing students - "College student management based on machine vision and intelligent monitoring system"

Researchers in China have developed a novel approach to higher education student management that integrates machine vision and intelligent detection technologies. They report details in the International Journal of Information and Communication Technology. The system could address the problems commonly encountered in traditional approaches to management that often cannot cope effectively in meeting the diverse needs of students. Moreover, the system should strengthen safety and improve how a higher-education establishment responds to emergencies.

Yawei Han of Sichuan University in Chengdu Sichuan, China, explains how the new system uses machine vision techniques, including frustum plane calculations and spherical bounding boxes. The system uses the Bresenham algorithm, a computational technique primarily used for drawing lines on a grid-based display, such as a computer screen, to efficiently determine which grid points to plot to form a straight line between two given points. Its use allows for precise conversion of an image into a format that the computer can use for analysis. One important aspect of the new approach is its method for assessing and improving nodes (which are points or elements in a system) using factors like how far away they are and how complex they are. This adaptive approach makes the system more reliable than it would otherwise be.

Overall, the ability of the system to accurately convert vector-based representations of lines into pixel-based raster images for image processing will allow the system to simplify image handling and improve visualization for the identification of students and behaviour.

The new system emphasises inclusivity and responsive communication channels in a way that focuses on the needs of students in a way that conventional approaches have not. Using machine vision and intelligent monitoring technologies can enhance managerial efficiency and bring the focus back to the students. Furthermore, the system highlights the value of utilizing student behaviour data to guide management strategies. Employing various algorithms to model student behaviour, enables targeted interventions and personalized support. There remains the potential to improve sensitivity and database integration. Enhancements in these areas could further strengthen the system’s capabilities and performance.

Han, Y. (2024) ‘College student management based on machine vision and intelligent monitoring system’, Int. J. Information and Communication Technology, Vol. 24, No. 2, pp.228–244.

Special issue published: "Ethics Practices and the Impact Of The COVID-19 Pandemic on Local and International Construction Companies"

International Journal of Business Governance and Ethics 18(2) 2024

• Too far apart! - An evaluation of the challenges impeding virtual teams' success
• Severity of ethical issues in virtual teams on construction projects
• Characterisation of the effects of coronavirus pandemic on construction projects delivery
• Managing construction delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic in the UK construction industry
• Firm characteristics and the level of IFRS compliance and disclosure in GCC countries

Free open access article available: "A user-centred development process for an equipment vest for the Swedish police force"

The following paper, "A user-centred development process for an equipment vest for the Swedish police force" (International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics 11(1) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Special issue published: "Smart Energy Infrastructures for Smart Cities"

International Journal of Global Energy Issues 46(3/4) 2024

• Cloud computing load balancing based on improved genetic algorithm
• Secure application-centric service authentication with regression learning for security systems in smart city applications
• Pricing mechanism and estimation model of integrated energy service products
• Comprehensive energy service operation mode and benefit evaluation model
• Comprehensive energy service customer value evaluation model
• Causes of concrete cracks in the construction of roads and bridges facing intelligent manufacturing technology
• Research of aerodynamic performance of high-speed train crossing canyon with CFD simulation
• Indoor environment design of old-age green buildings based on environmental energy efficiency
• Construction and risk prevention of real-time renewable energy internal control management system based on big data
• Development of a low-carbon economy with the dual transformation of economy and energy structure
• Food safety supply chain from perspective of big data algorithm and energy efficiency

Research pick: Greening the old folks’ homes - "Indoor environment design of old-age green buildings based on environmental energy efficiency"

Research in the International Journal of Global Energy Issues sheds a green light on an innovative approach to addressing the design challenges faced by care facilities for older people amidst societal ageing and growing environmental concerns. The work, from Yi Wu from the School of Urban Construction Engineering at Chongqing Technology and Business Institute in Chongqing, China, focuses on incorporating green technologies into the interior environments of senior care buildings to improve both the well-being of the residents and boost energy efficiency.

Wu has undertaken detailed demographic projections and noise level measurements across different locations and her analysis of the data demonstrates how significant enhancement in overall energy efficiency might be made.

As the global population “ages”, there are increasing challenges that face society worldwide. Wu points out that Western developed nations have long grappled with their ageing populations, countries such as China are now facing similar issues due to rapid demographic shifts driven by economic and societal change.

Elderly care buildings, including senior apartments and nursing homes, are essential in meeting the diverse needs of an ageing population, encompassing psychological, physiological, and behavioural aspects. However, amid concerns over resource depletion and environmental degradation, improving the energy efficiency of such homes is becoming increasingly important. Green technologies offer a practical approach to addressing energy consumption and pollution concerns simultaneously. The development of elderly care infrastructure requires not only innovative architectural designs but also supportive national policies and public engagement to improve such housing. Wu suggests that policy measures should include setting realistic development targets, refining regulations, conducting quality assessments, and establishing industry frameworks is critical.

There is an opportunity where the integration of environmental sustainability and elderly care infrastructure is met. By embracing green technologies and implementing supportive policies, societies can create more resilient and inclusive environments for their ageing populations and hopefully mitigate the environmental impact of the changing demographic. Collaborative efforts across different sectors are now needed to address the challenges sustainably.

Wu, Y. (2024) ‘Indoor environment design of old-age green buildings based on environmental energy efficiency’, Int. J. Global Energy Issues, Vol. 46, Nos. 3/4, pp.327–344.

Free open access article available: "Roadmap for UX in future operational train traffic control"

The following paper, "Roadmap for UX in future operational train traffic control" (International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics 11(1) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics are now available here for free:

• Development of a gripping comfort evaluation method based on numerical simulations using individual hand finite element models
• Website complexity and usability: is there a role for mental workload?
• Decision making in exceptional circumstances: experts' attitude towards artefacts as preparation for encountering unexpected situations
• Flexible office, flexible working? A post-relocation study on how and why university employees use a combi-office for their activities at hand
• Application of a sense of coherence-based leadership for productivity and health at Scania

Special issue published: "Technology Management in Carbon Neutrality: Challenges, Methods and Applications in Industry 4.0 Era"

International Journal of Technology Management 95(1/2) 2024

• Impact of green technology innovation on carbon emissions: evidence from China's 276 cities
• Impact of green subsidies on green innovation of environmental service firms in China
• How does product innovation affect the performance of university-industry collaboration? A dynamic knowledge transfer perspective
• ICT-empowered rural e-commerce development in China: an adaptive structuration perspective
• The impact of three-dimensional printing technology investment on a low-carbon manufacturing supply chain, investigated through the Stackelberg game
• Do carbon emissions trading pilots effectively reduce CO2 emissions? County-level evidence from eastern China
• A study on the influence of government subsidies on enterprises' innovative performance in Chinese patent-intensive industries

Additional papers

• Globalisation or regionalisation of technological knowledge learning in multinational corporations
• Functional, hedonic, and social motivated consumer innovativeness as a driver of word-of-mouth in smart object early adoptions: an empirical examination in two product categories

Free open access article available: "Exploring the relationship between entrepreneurship and economic growth in selected countries"

The following paper, "Exploring the relationship between entrepreneurship and economic growth in selected countries" (World Review of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development 20(2) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Research pick: Online healthcheck for medical info - "Intelligent model to improve the efficacy of healthcare content marketing by auto-tagging and exploring the veracity of content using opinion mining"

Research in the International Journal of Electronic Marketing and Retailing introduces a new model aimed at assessing the credibility and relevance of online healthcare information. With the proliferation of online health advice, the challenge of distinguishing trustworthy sources from false information has become increasingly important for patients and their carers.

S. Sri Hari of the Illinois Institute of Technology in Chicago, USA, S. Porkodi and R. Saranya of the University of Technology and Applied Sciences, and N. Vijayakumar of the Technical Administrative Training Institute in Muscat, Oman have developed a model that uses sentiment analysis on reader comments to gauge the reliability of digital healthcare content. Using content relevance analysis, word scoring using a lexicon analyzer, and classification via a maximum entropy model, the model generates what the team refers to as a veracity score, which can help users make a better-informed decision about the information they find online.

The researchers tested their model using healthcare content and found it to work effectively in evaluating the veracity of information. The new model could have significant implications for content marketing efforts within the healthcare sector, providing users with tailored recommendations while enhancing the credibility of digital healthcare information. The model’s ability to identify and highlight trustworthy content benefits patients and carers as consumers.

The model’s impact could affect all age groups, youngsters, the middle-aged, and an ageing population. The identification of reliable healthcare information among the vast number of online medical and health resources is critical. The model could allow better-informed decision-making and mitigate the problems that might arise through the spread of misinformation.

Future work will expand the model’s capabilities by developing tools to analyse multimedia content and incorporate additional mechanisms to identify misinformation and disinformation.

Hari, S.S., Porkodi, S., Saranya, R. and Vijayakumar, N. (2024) ‘Intelligent model to improve the efficacy of healthcare content marketing by auto-tagging and exploring the veracity of content using opinion mining’, Int. J. Electronic Marketing and Retailing, Vol. 15, No. 2, pp.240–260.

Free open access article available: "Factors affecting consumers' purchase decisions on green products in a developing market"

The following paper, "Factors affecting consumers' purchase decisions on green products in a developing market" (World Review of Entrepreneurship, Management and Sustainable Development 20(2) 2024), is freely available for download as an open access article.

It can be downloaded via the full-text link available here.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Diplomacy and Economy

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Diplomacy and Economy are now available here for free:

• All weather friends: How did the Russia-Ukraine war impact Indian stock markets?
• State of economic play: European Union and economic diplomacy
• Leveraging Chinese economic presence in the post-lockdown Ghanaian market space and the growth of China's public relations and diplomacy
• The impact of women's economic empowerment on the rise of female entrepreneurship and human capital in South Africa
• The effects of China's wolf warrior diplomacy on the Chinese economy: a stock market perspective

Special issue published: "Challenges in Education/Higher Education During COVID-19"

International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning 34(2/3) 2024

• MOOC English online course recommendation algorithm based on LDA user interest model
• MOOC online English teaching quality evaluation method based on fuzzy algorithm
• A dynamic evaluation of MOOC online English teaching based on decision tree algorithm
• An optimisation of higher education resources search method based on multi-state hierarchical model
• Study on quality evaluation method of multimedia distance education based on data mining
• The blending teaching effect evaluation of distance education under the background of MOOC
• An evaluation of college students' involvement in English learning behaviour based on fuzzy comprehensive evaluation
• Satisfaction evaluation method of composite teaching model from the perspective of MOOC concept
• Study on evaluation method of modern distance teaching effect under MOOC environment
• A quality evaluation model of distance assisted instruction based on AHP and entropy weight method
• MOOC distance teaching effect evaluation method based on fuzzy entropy
• A MOOC online teaching quality evaluation method based on fuzzy algorithm
• A quantitative evaluation method of online teaching quality based on data mining

Research pick: Descriptive boost for visual accessibility - "Machine learning and image processing technique to describe outdoor scenes for visually impaired people"

There are an estimated 280 million people in the world with debilitating levels of visual impairment. A new tool to empower them with a richer understanding of their surroundings is discussed in the International Journal of Engineering Systems Modelling and Simulation.

S. Pavithra, T. Helan Vidhya, D. Gururaj, and P. Shanmuga Priya of the Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering at Rajalakshmi Engineering College and V. Prabhakaran of the Department of Biomedical Engineering at Aarupadai Veedu Institute of Technology in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, have demonstrated that integrating digital image processing and voice technology allows them to a certain degree bridge the gap between visual impairment and a person’s surroundings.

The core of their approach lies in a system that captures real-time images and translates them into audio descriptions. It utilises sophisticated image recognition algorithms powered by machine learning and allows the computer to identify objects within a scene with remarkable accuracy, the team reports. The researchers explain that the process is helped by platforms such as TensorFlow and ensures that users receive detailed descriptions tailored to their immediate surroundings.

The new technology goes way beyond simple object recognition. It functions as a personal assistant, providing users with timely updates on relevant information and potential hazards that they may encounter in navigating their environment whether at home or elsewhere. The team also points out that a distress call mechanism can be used in the system to add an extra layer of safety, being activated in an emergency situation in order to summon help.

The researchers have tested their system rigorously, demonstrating high accuracy rates in identifying both primary (90 percent accuracy) and secondary objects (80 percent). Moreover, they have demonstrated that it can be adapted to different environments, whether indoor or outdoor. It distinguishes itself in this way from current solutions that may be limited in scope or responsiveness.

The team hopes that their new technology will improve the quality of life for visually impaired people by addressing the shortcomings of current assistive technologies. By enabling real-time interaction with the world, this innovation will foster independence and inclusion, the researchers suggest.

Pavithra, S., Prabhakaran, V., Vidhya, T.H., Gururaj, D. and Priya, P.S. (2024) ‘Machine learning and image processing technique to describe outdoor scenes for visually impaired people’, Int. J. Engineering Systems Modelling and Simulation, Vol. 15, No. 2, pp.63–67.

Dr. Daniela Carlucci appointed as new Editor in Chief of International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development

Dr. Daniela Carlucci from the University of Basilicata in Italy has been appointed to take over editorship of the International Journal of Knowledge-Based Development.

Free sample articles newly available from International Journal of Banking, Accounting and Finance

The following sample articles from the International Journal of Banking, Accounting and Finance are now available here for free:

• Do idiosyncratic volatility and liquidity in stock returns still matter in post-global financial crisis? The UK evidence
• Is the turn of the month an anomaly on which an investment strategy could be based? Evidence from Bitcoin and Ethereum
• Goodwill impairment disclosure and integrated reporting: evidence on credit ratings and earnings manipulation
• Dynamic linkages among financial stress, house prices and residential investment in Greece
• Hedge fund activism and short-term value creation prior to the initial filing: evidence from US firms

First issue: International Journal of Education, Arts and Social Issues in Africa (free sample issue available)

The International Journal of Education, Arts and Social Issues in Africa provides a forum for scholars and researchers to analyse, evaluate, discuss and develop policy ideas on issues related to education, the arts and society in Africa. The journal acknowledges that these are intricate issues and that one size does not fit all. Since there are many countries in Africa, most with a colonial past, problems and solutions are very complex, often requiring interdisciplinary approaches and involving the use of different models.

There is a free download of the papers from this first issue.

Research pick: Tailoring a comfort-fit police jacket - "A user-centred development process for an equipment vest for the Swedish police force"

In collaborative work between police organizations and experts in ergonomics and biomechanics, a new equipment vest has been developed to address the issue of musculoskeletal disorders, particularly lower back pain, among police officers. The work undertaken in Sweden is described in detail in the International Journal of Human Factors and Ergonomics. The new vest design aims to redistribute the weight of essential equipment, such as communication equipment weapons, and handcuffs, from the traditional duty belt to a more ergonomically designed vest.

The standard duty belt worn by officers has been identified as a contributor to lower back pain due to its unfavourable load on the lumbar spine, particularly during sitting or driving. This seems to be a universal issue and one that research might address. Additionally, the ballistic vest worn underneath the uniform presents challenges in regulating body temperature.

Kristina Eliasson and Teresia Nyman of the Department of Medical Sciences, Occupational and Environmental Medicine at Uppsala University, Roy Tranberg of the Department of Orthopedics in the Institute of Clinical Sciences, part of the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, and Louise Bæk Larsen of the Department of Rehabilitation in School of Health and Welfare at Jönköping University undertook thorough analysis and testing during the development process. They carried out interviews, held focus groups, and took pressure measurements with 95 active-duty police officers. Their findings allowed them to make iterative design changes with ongoing user feedback. This resulted in a vest better tailored to the needs of Swedish police officers.

The researchers suggest that the redistribution of equipment on the newly developed vest will reduce musculoskeletal discomfort and make important improvements to the physical component of being a police officer. Ultimately, the new vest design aims to enhance the well-being and comfort of police officers on active duty, potentially influencing occupational equipment standards globally.

This project highlights the importance of a dedicated project management team to coordinate efforts so that any changes are inclusive and take into account the views of those who are to use the new equipment as well as their physical measurements. Such a user-centric development process could also be used as a model for future occupational equipment projects, not only in law enforcement but across various types of workplace from healthcare to industry and other occupations in between.

Eliasson, K., Nyman, T., Tranberg, R. and Larsen, L.B. (2024) ‘A user-centred development process for an equipment vest for the Swedish police force’, Int. J. Human Factors and Ergonomics, Vol. 11, No. 1, pp.56–77.