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The COVID-19 pandemic was the most ‘over governed’ tourism crisis since World War II. Unlike disruptions prior to 2020, it challenged many long-held paradigms about global tourism including fundamental issues like the right to travel. Therefore, it qualified fully as a ‘wicked problem’ defined by Rittel and Webber (1973) and Head (2022). The extent of government-imposed regulation was central to the management of and response to COVID-19. All tiers of government-mandated measures, including border closures, area lockdowns, quarantine regimes, social distancing, pressure to accept vaccinations, masks and testing requirements applied in most countries and regional territorial jurisdictions throughout 2020 and 2021. In some cases, notably in China, restrictions remained until early 2023. Tourism’s recovery from crises involves rebuilding consumer and stakeholder confidence and focussing on marketing positive perceptions of destinations and enterprises. However, during the COVID-19 crisis, marketing and promotion of tourism recovery were hampered by a regulatory environment restricting tourism activity across sectors. As a ‘wicked problem’ for global tourism, COVID-19 incorporates many of Head’s (2022) seven policy strategies to deal with Rittel and Webber’s (1973) ten elements of wicked problems including authoritative imposition, micro-management and science (health) based technocracy. The Australian response to COVID-19 was significantly complicated by the fact nine governments (one Federal, six states and two territories) frequently had differing policy and regulatory approaches to COVID-19. These affected international and domestic travel to, from and within Australia. Australia’s fragmented, federalist governance of a health-based crisis exacerbated the restrictions imposed on both domestic and international travel.

This research analyzes the impact of transformational leadership on task performance in sales team members, considering the mediating role of leader–member exchange (LMX), perceived organizational support and work engagement.

A structural equations model was analyzed utilizing the partial least squares (PLS-SEM) method based on data collected from a survey of 142 members and 19 leaders of sales teams in Colombian companies.

The present study establishes that social exchange variables, including perceived organizational support and LMX, mediate the relationship between transformational leadership and task performance. Nevertheless, work engagement does not demonstrate a statistically significant mediating effect.

The outcomes of this study contribute significant insights into how transformational leadership, directly and indirectly, affects task performance in an emerging economy. It specifically addresses the cultural context of Colombia, marked by a high distance to power and a perceived low aversion to uncertainty – contrary to a desired higher uncertainty avoidance.

Esta investigación analiza el impacto del liderazgo transformacional en el desempeño de tareas de los miembros de equipos de ventas, considerando el rol mediador de factores como el intercambio líder-miembro (LMX), el apoyo organizacional percibido y el engagement laboral.

A partir de una encuesta realizada a 142 miembros y 19 líderes de equipos de ventas en empresas colombianas, se analizó un Modelo de Ecuaciones Estructurales utilizando la metodología de Mínimos Cuadrados Parciales (PLS-SEM).

Se identifica el rol mediador de variables de intercambio social como el LMX y el apoyo organizacional percibido en la relación existente entre el liderazgo transformacional y el desempeño de tareas; sin embargo, no se encuentra un efecto mediador significativo del engagement laboral.

Los resultados de este estudio aportan importantes perspectivas sobre cómo el liderazgo transformacional afecta, directa e indirectamente, el desempeño en las tareas en una economía emergente. Aborda específicamente el contexto cultural de Colombia, caracterizado por una alta distancia al poder y una baja aversión a la incertidumbre percibida, en contraste con una mayor aversión a la incertidumbre deseada.

This study aims to investigate how source attractiveness (including platform credibility, product appeal and streamer attractiveness) and information quality impact viewers’ cognition and flow state. Additionally, it examines how these factors influence the development of consumer attitudes and behaviors toward livestreamed tourism shopping, as well as the moderating roles of perceived risk and personal characteristics.

A sequential mixed-methods research design was used. In addition to a literature review, 15 interviews were conducted to identify measurement items for the subsequent questionnaire survey. Sample 1 (n = 209) was used to refine these measurement items, whereas Sample 2 (n = 227) was used to evaluate the measurement model and test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings reveal that source attractiveness (streamer attractiveness, tourism product attractiveness and platform credibility) and information quality significantly influence customers’ behavior formation, with cognition and flow state acting as mediators. Findings further confirm the moderating effect of perceived risk in a livestreamed shopping environment.

The findings provide new insights into how consumers select livestreamed shopping platforms. As viewers assess the credibility and trustworthiness of each component to form their perception of the overall platform’s credibility, companies should market their products through credible platforms, studios and stores with extensive reach. It is also critical to collaborate with streamers who are sincere, trustworthy, knowledgeable and professional. Since perceived risk lowers consumer behavioral intentions, live streamers, platforms and merchants should offer convincing and credible arguments to alleviate viewers’ perceived risks.

This study advances the literature on livestreamed shopping by broadening the conceptualization of source attractiveness to include three dimensions: streamer attractiveness, product attractiveness and platform attractiveness. Furthermore, it differentiates itself from existing studies by integrating and adopting multidimensional measurements of cognition (perceived usefulness and ease of use) and flow state (control, enjoyment, curiosity and concentration).

本研究旨在探讨信息源吸引力(平台可信度、产品吸引力和主播吸引力)和信息质量如何影响旅游购物直播观众的认知和心流体验。本研究进一步探讨了这些因素如何影响旅游直播购物消费者的态度与行为。本研究还检验了感知风险和个人特征的调节作用。

采用顺序混合研究方法。基于文献和15次深度访谈确定了问卷调查中使用的测量项目。样本1 (n= 209)用于净化测量项目。样本2 (n= 227)用于评估测量模型并验证假设。

信息源吸引力(主播吸引力、旅游产品吸引力和平台可信度)和信息质量显著影响消费者行为, 其中认知和心流起中介作用。研究结果进一步证实了感知风险的调节作用。

研究结果为消费者如何选择直播购物平台提供了新的见解。由于观众对每个组成部分的可信度进行评估, 从而形成他们对整个平台可信度的看法, 因此公司应该通过可靠的平台、直播间和具有广泛影响力的店铺来营销他们的产品。与真诚、值得信赖、知识渊博、专业的主播合作也至关重要。由于感知风险会降低消费者的行为意愿, 因此主播、平台和商家应该提供令人信服和可信的论据, 以减轻观众的感知风险。

本研究将信息源吸引力的概念扩展到三个维度：主播吸引力、产品吸引力和平台可信度, 从而丰富了直播购物相关研究。通过整合并采用认知（感知有用性和感知易用性）和心流体验（控制、愉悦、好奇和沉浸）的多维测量, 本研究进一步区别于现有研究。

Este estudio investiga cómo el atractivo de la fuente (incluida la credibilidad de la plataforma, el atractivo del producto y el atractivo del emisor) y la calidad de la información influyen en la cognición y el estado de flujo de los espectadores. Además, examina cómo influyen estos factores en el desarrollo de las actitudes y los comportamientos de los consumidores hacia las compras turísticas retransmitidas en directo, así como los papeles moderadores del riesgo percibido y las características personales.

Se empleó un método de investigación mixto secuencial. Además de una revisión bibliográfica, se realizaron 15 entrevistas para identificar los ítems de medición para la posterior encuesta por cuestionario. La muestra 1 (n = 209) se utilizó para refinar estos ítems de medición, mientras que la muestra 2 (n = 227) se utilizó para evaluar el modelo de medición y probar las hipótesis propuestas.

Resultados revelan que el atractivo de la fuente (atractivo del emisor, atractivo del producto turístico y credibilidad de la plataforma) y la calidad de la información influyen significativamente en la formación del comportamiento de los clientes, con la cognición y el estado de flujo actuando como mediadores. Resultados confirman además el efecto moderador del riesgo percibido en el entorno de las compras en directo.

Los Resultados aportan nuevos conocimientos sobre cómo seleccionan los consumidores las plataformas de compras en directo. Dado que los espectadores evalúan la credibilidad y la fiabilidad de cada componente para formarse su percepción de la credibilidad global de la plataforma, las empresas deberían comercializar sus productos a través de plataformas, estudios y tiendas creíbles con un amplio alcance. También es fundamental colaborar con streamers que sean sinceros, dignos de confianza, informados y profesionales. Dado que el riesgo percibido disminuye las intenciones de comportamiento de los consumidores, los streamers en directo, las plataformas y los comerciantes deben ofrecer argumentos convincentes y creíbles para aliviar los riesgos percibidos por los espectadores.

Este estudio hace avanzar la literatura sobre las compras en directo ampliando la conceptualización del atractivo de la fuente para incluir tres dimensiones: el atractivo del streamer, el atractivo del producto y el atractivo de la plataforma. Además, se diferencia de los estudios existentes al integrar y adoptar mediciones multidimensionales de la cognición (utilidad percibida y facilidad de uso) y el estado de flujo (control, disfrute, curiosidad y concentración).

Nanotechnology (NT) advancements in personal protective textiles (PPT) or personal protective equipment (PPE) have alleviated spread and transmission of this highly contagious viral disease, and enabled enhancement of PPE, thereby fortifying antiviral behavior.

Review of a series of state of the art research papers on the subject matter.

This paper expounds on novel nanotechnological advancements in polymeric textile composites, emerging applications and fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

As a panacea to “public droplet prevention,” textiles have proven to be potentially effective as environmental droplet barriers (EDBs).

PPT in form of healthcare materials including surgical face masks (SFMs), gloves, goggles, respirators, gowns, uniforms, scrub-suits and other apparels play critical role in hindering the spreading of COVID-19 and other “oral-respiratory droplet contamination” both within and outside hospitals.

When used as double-layers, textiles display effectiveness as SFMs or surgical-fabrics, which reduces droplet transmission to <10 cm, within circumference of ∼0.3%.

NT advancements in textiles through nanoparticles, and sensor integration within textile materials have enhanced versatile sensory capabilities, robotics, flame retardancy, self-cleaning, electrical conductivity, flexibility and comfort, thereby availing it for health, medical, sporting, advanced engineering, pharmaceuticals, aerospace, military, automobile, food and agricultural applications, and more. Therefore, this paper expounds on recently emerging trends in nanotechnological influence in textiles for engineering and fight against COVID-19 pandemic.

This study explores the evolutionary relationship between multimarket contact (MMC) and competitive actions among multinational corporations (MNCs). It aims to enhance the understanding of international market competition by incorporating insights into dynamic competition and parent–subsidiary relationships.

A structured content analysis was used to identify the competitive actions of global shipping liners. The dataset includes 8,204 actions identified across nine global arenas. Data were collected from 6,553 monthly news articles on Alphaliner. The period covered is from January 1, 2015, to June 30, 2023.

The results indicate that a higher degree of MMC leads to greater competitive aggressiveness, supporting the combination of mutual forbearance and the Red Queen effect. Additionally, market importance triggers the mutual forbearance effect, whereas competitive rivalry is weaker for overlapping cross-market contacts. Furthermore, local competitive intensity increases MNCs' contact and echoes the Red Queen effect, especially for subsidiaries facing increasing pressure from local responsiveness.

Limitations include reliance on Alphaliner, potential inaccuracies from proxy variables, and unmeasured headquarters–subsidiary interactions. Future research should explore other industries and extend the study period for broader applicability and generalization.

By interlacing mutual forbearance with the Red Queen effect within a coopetition framework, managers can devise strategies to balance competition and collaboration, thereby ensuring long-term viability and growth in global markets.

This study extends the concept of MMC to the context of global shipping liners, a previously underexplored sector. Unlike earlier research, this study empirically examines MMC dynamics globally and integrates mutual forbearance and the Red Queen effect.

This research explored the intersection of cognitive processes, emotions and their impacts on digital game-based vocabulary learning (DGVL) among university students. Recognizing the scant research in this area, especially with integrating innovative technologies, this study aims to understand the influence of these elements using advanced monitoring tools.

This inquiry was carried out as an observational study involving 44 university students segmented into three English language proficiency levels: high, intermediate and low based on their English course scores. The methodological tools included a portable eye tracker to observe visual behaviors and deep learning technology to identify and analyze the participants’ emotional responses and engagement with the DGVL during the learning process.

The results showed that distinct fixation sequences and variations in visual attention during DGVL were correlated with different levels of competency, suggesting a direct correlation between visual engagement and language competence. In addition, emotional transitions, predominantly from engagement (“flow”) to challenge (“frustration”), were common among participants, reflecting the emotional dynamics of learning. Furthermore, all participants consistently focused on the English vocabulary definitions, indicative of their targeted approach to understanding and test preparation. These findings highlighted the intricate dynamics between emotions and cognitive processes in learning environments.

Contribution of this study shows the interplay of cognitive engagement and emotional experiences in the context of DGVL. It underscored the complex nature of these factors and their collective influence on learners’ visual and emotional engagement, offering valuable implications for educational strategies and technological applications in language learning.

The potential for massive economic growth exists in Samarinda City due to the intensification of activities in built-up areas. This suggests the potential for increased urban disease in the relocation of Indonesia’s new capital city to a location adjacent to Samarinda. One of the most striking impacts is the urban heat island (UHI). The increase in this phenomenon can be addressed effectively and efficiently through the provision and arrangement of appropriate vegetation-based actions. Therefore, this study aims to identify priority areas of green open space (GOS) based on UHI levels. In addition, this study also aims to present alternative mitigation measures to reduce the risk of disasters due to UHI.

A mixed-method approach was used in this research, involving an initial land surface temperature analysis to identify the UHI class. This analysis was complemented by quantitative spatial analyses, such as scoring, overlay and intersect methods, to determine the priority level class and the typology of GOS priority. A qualitative analysis was also conducted through data triangulation or comparison methods, such as examining existing land use, GOS priority maps and spatial plan policies.

The findings show that the total UHI area in Samarinda City was 6,936.4 ha in 2019 and is divided into three classifications. In Class 1, the UHI area is very dominant, reaching 87% of the total area. Meanwhile, the main results identified two priority classes of GOS in Samarinda, namely, the medium and high categories with an area of 960.43 ha and 113.57 ha, respectively. The results also showed that there were 17 typologies associated with five alternative mitigation measures: green industry, greening parking lots, improving urban green infrastructure and buildings, urban greening and mining restoration.

Specific to assessing UHI, image data were available only in medium spatial resolution, leading to a consequence of detailed accuracy. In addition, since the determination of mitigation considered local policies, the method should be used in other locations requiring adjustments to existing regulations, specifically those related to spatial planning.

This study makes a significant contribution to the understanding of the UHI phenomenon in Indonesia, especially in the urban areas of Kalimantan Island. In addition, the study presents new insights into alternative mitigation actions to reduce the risk of UHI. Innovatively, this study introduces a typology of regions associated with appropriate alternative mitigation actions, making it an important achievement for the first time in the context of this study.

How to embed artificial intelligence (AI) in human resource management (HRM) is one of the core challenges of digital HRM. Despite regulations demanding humans in the loop to ensure human oversight of AI-based decisions, it is still unknown how much decision-makers rely on information provided by AI and how this affects (personnel) selection quality.

This paper presents an experimental study using vignettes of dashboard prototypes to investigate the effect of AI on decision-makers’ overreliance in personnel selection, particularly the impact of decision-makers’ information search behavior on selection quality.

Our study revealed decision-makers’ tendency towards status quo bias when using an AI-based ranking system, meaning that they paid more attention to applicants that were ranked higher than those ranked lower. We identified three information search strategies that have different effects on selection quality: (1) homogeneous search coverage, (2) heterogeneous search coverage, and (3) no information search. The more applicants were searched equally often (i.e. homogeneous) as when certain applicants received more search views than others (i.e. heterogeneous) the higher the search intensity was, resulting in higher selection quality. No information search is characterized by low search intensity and low selection quality. Priming decision-makers towards carrying responsibility for their decisions or explaining potential AI shortcomings had no moderating effect on the relationship between search coverage and selection quality.

Our study highlights the presence of status quo bias in personnel selection given AI-based applicant rankings, emphasizing the danger that decision-makers over-rely on AI-based recommendations.

The purpose of this mixed-methods study was to explore how medical secretaries experience digital transformation in a Swedish healthcare organisation, with a focus on workplace climate and health.

Data were collected using a sequential exploratory mixed-methods design based on grounded theory, with qualitative data collection (a Quality Café and individual interviews) followed by quantitative data collection (a questionnaire).

Four categories with seven underlying factors were identified, emphasising the crucial need for effective organisation of digital transformation. This is vital due to the increased knowledge and skills in utilising technology. The evolving roles and responsibilities of medical secretaries in dynamic healthcare settings should be clearly defined and acknowledged, highlighting the importance of professionality. Ensuring proper training for medical secretaries and other occupations in emerging techniques is crucial, emphasising equal value and knowledge across each role. Associations were found between some factors and the health of medical secretaries.

This study adds to the knowledge on digital transformation in healthcare by examining an important occupation. Most data were collected online, which may be a limitation of this study.

Several aspects of the medical secretaries’ experiences were identified. Knowledge of these is valuable for healthcare managers to make digital transformation more effective while avoiding excessive strain on medical secretaries.

Medical secretaries are expected to contribute to the digitalisation of healthcare. However, minimal research has been conducted on the role of medical secretaries in workplace digitalisation, focusing on workplace roles and its dynamics.