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Open Access
Article
Publication date: 16 April 2024

Soraya González-Mendes, Sara Alonso-Muñoz, Fernando E. García-Muiña and Rocío González-Sánchez

This paper aims to provide an overview of the application of blockchain to agri-food supply chains, including key issues and trends. It examines the state of the art and…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an overview of the application of blockchain to agri-food supply chains, including key issues and trends. It examines the state of the art and conceptual structure of the field and proposes an agenda to guide future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This article performs a bibliometric analysis using VOSviewer software on a sample of 205 articles from the WoS database to identify research trend topics.

Findings

The number of publications in this area has increased since 2020, which shows a growing research interest. The research hotspots are related to the integration of blockchain technology in the agri-food supply chain for traceability, coordination between all actors involved, transparency of operations and improvement of food safety. Furthermore, this is linked to sustainability and the achievement of the sustainable development gtoals (SDGs), while addressing key challenges in the implementation of blockchain-based technologies in the agri-food supply chain.

Practical implications

The application of blockchain in the agri-food supply chain may consider four key aspects. Firstly, the implementation of blockchain can improve the traceability of food products. Secondly, this technology supports sustainability issues and could avoid disruptions in the agri-food supply chain. Third, blockchain improves food quality and safety control throughout the supply chain. Fourthly, the findings show that regulation is needed to improve trust between stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of the blockchain phenomenon in the agri-food supply chain by optimising the search criteria. Moreover, it serves to bridge to future research by identifying gaps in the field.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 126 no. 13
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 31 January 2024

Juan Zhang, Xi Gao, Xi Hong and Hamish Coates

Although doctoral education has experienced substantial development in recent decades, it remains an elite, hence fragile, dimension of university policy and practice. This study…

Abstract

Purpose

Although doctoral education has experienced substantial development in recent decades, it remains an elite, hence fragile, dimension of university policy and practice. This study aims to articulate perspectives to guide the next phase of strengthening and growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Working from theoretical and empirical research conducted in China, including scholarship on workforce ecosystems, education design and the student experience, this study contributes a framework with qualitative insights which clarify the goals and experiences of doctoral education in ways that will render it more relevant, effective and contributing.

Findings

The paper identifies areas for doctoral reform to ensure career readiness, including three distinctive outcomes and four indispensable experiences.

Originality/value

This study advances a doctoral design framework which can render transparent the substance of programs and prompt program coordinators to develop and ensure career relevance.

Details

Studies in Graduate and Postdoctoral Education, vol. 15 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2398-4686

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 19 March 2024

Raul Gomez-Martinez and María Luisa Medrano-Garcia

Corporate diversity encompasses the different talents, knowledge, cultures, experiences and values of its employees. This diversity is reflected in multiple characteristics, such…

31

Abstract

Purpose

Corporate diversity encompasses the different talents, knowledge, cultures, experiences and values of its employees. This diversity is reflected in multiple characteristics, such as race, age, gender, social class, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, culture and disability. The objective of this study is to identify if diversity is a value driver.

Design/methodology/approach

We take the diversity score from the Diversity Leaders Index 2023 published by Financial Times (FT) and Statista; this will be our independent variable in linear regression models whose objective variables are relevant fundamental indicators of the Euro Stoxx 50 companies. It is, therefore, a cross-sectional sample with financial data taken as of the current date. We have 37 Euro Stoxx 50 components included in the diversity ranking.

Findings

The results indicate that diversity is not a value driver for trading volume, for its revenue, or for systematic risk measured by the beta parameter. However, it is observed, in a confidence interval of 90%, that the most diverse companies are larger (according to their market capitalization). In addition, the most diverse companies are more profitable [return on assets (ROA)] and valued by the market [price to earnings ratio (PER)] in a confidence interval of 95%.

Originality/value

These results indicate that companies should promote corporate diversity as a management strategy, as it is observed that more diverse companies are more profitable and valued by the market. This study provides a quantitative vision in the context of homogeneous companies such as the Euro Stoxx 50 Index on the aspects in which diversity is a value driver.

Details

The Journal of Risk Finance, vol. 25 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 1526-5943

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 August 2023

Zhi Cao, Dong-Young Kim, Yinping Mu and Vinod Singhal

The growing focus on socially responsible supply chain management (SRSCM) has made it crucial to extend corporate social responsibility (CSR) to upstream suppliers. Drawing on…

Abstract

Purpose

The growing focus on socially responsible supply chain management (SRSCM) has made it crucial to extend corporate social responsibility (CSR) to upstream suppliers. Drawing on resource dependence theory, this study aims to examine how supplier dependence upon socially responsible buyers impacts suppliers' CSR performance and how this relationship is moderated by network prominence and demand uncertainty.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed hypotheses are tested using regression analysis with Heckman's two-stage model and a dyadic supply chain dataset constructed based on publicly traded Chinese firms between 2008 and 2016. This time window is selected due to a one-year lag of the dependent variable and the change in evaluation methods of the database providing CSR performance in 2018.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that supplier dependence upon socially responsible buyers is positively associated with suppliers' CSR performance. However, this positive relationship is attenuated when suppliers occupy a prominent position in the network or when they face high demand uncertainty.

Originality/value

This study extends knowledge about the role of relationship dependence in implementing SRSCM by highlighting its positive impact on suppliers' CSR. Thus, this study contributes to the buyer–supplier relationship literature and the power and relationship dependence literature. This study further advances the understanding of the factors that influence suppliers' behavior by exploring the moderating roles of network prominence and demand uncertainty. The results have several practical implications for managers and policymakers.

Details

International Journal of Operations & Production Management, vol. 44 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0144-3577

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 20 March 2024

Mauricio Pérez Giraldo, Mauricio Vasquez, Alejandro Toro, Robison Buitrago-Sierra and Juan Felipe Santa

This paper aims to develop a stable gel-type lubricant emulating commercial conditions. This encompassed rheological and tribological assessments, alongside field trials on the…

20

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a stable gel-type lubricant emulating commercial conditions. This encompassed rheological and tribological assessments, alongside field trials on the Medellín tram system.

Design/methodology/approach

The gel-type lubricant with graphite and aluminum powder is synthesized. Rheological tests, viscosity measurements and linear viscoelastic regime assessments are conducted. Subsequently, tribological analyses encompassing four-ball and twin disc methods are executed. Finally, real-world testing is performed on the Medellín tram system.

Findings

An achieved lubricant met the stipulated criteria, yielding innovative insights into the interaction of graphite and aluminum powder additives under varying tests.

Originality/value

Novel findings are unveiled regarding the interaction of graphite and aluminum powder additives in tribological, rheological and real-world trials. In addition, the wear behavior of polymers is observed, along with the potential utilization of such additives in tramway systems.

Details

Industrial Lubrication and Tribology, vol. 76 no. 3
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0036-8792

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 1 February 2024

Juan Carlos Archila-Godínez, Han Chen, Gloria Cheng, Sanjana Sanjay Manjrekar and Yaohua Feng

In 2020, an outbreak of Salmonella Stanley linked to imported dried wood ear mushrooms affected 55 individuals in the United States of America. These mushrooms, commonly used in…

30

Abstract

Purpose

In 2020, an outbreak of Salmonella Stanley linked to imported dried wood ear mushrooms affected 55 individuals in the United States of America. These mushrooms, commonly used in Asian cuisine, require processing, like rehydration and cutting, before serving. The US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention advise food preparers to use boiling water for rehydration to inactivate vegetative bacterial pathogens. Little is known about how food handlers prepare this ethnic ingredient and which handling procedures could enable Salmonella proliferation.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used content analysis to investigate handling practices for dried wood ear mushrooms as demonstrated in YouTube recipe videos and to identify food safety implications during handling of the product. A total of 125 Chinese- and English-language YouTube videos were analysed.

Findings

Major steps in handling procedures were identified, including rehydration, cutting/tearing and blanching. Around 62% of the videos failed to specify the water temperature for rehydration. Only three videos specified a water temperature of 100 °C for rehydrating the mushrooms, and 36% of the videos did not specify the soaking duration. Only one video showed handwashing, cleaning and sanitising of surfaces when handling the dried wood ear mushrooms.

Practical implications

This study found that most YouTube videos provided vague and inconsistent descriptions of the rehydration procedure, including water temperature and soaking duration. Food preparers were advised to use boiling water for rehydration to inactivate vegetative bacterial pathogens. However, boiling water alone is insufficient to inactivate all bacterial spores. Extended periods of soaking and storage could be of concern for spore germination and bacterial growth. More validation studies need to be conducted to provide guidance on how to safely handle the mushrooms.

Originality/value

This study will make a distinctive contribution to the field of food safety by being the first to investigate the handling procedure of a unique ethnic food ingredient, dried wood ear mushrooms, which has been linked to a previous outbreak and multiple recalls in the United States of America. The valuable data collected from this study can help target food handling education as well as influence future microbial validation study design and risk assessment.

Details

British Food Journal, vol. 126 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0007-070X

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 April 2024

Miriam O'Callaghan

While there is ample discussion in management studies and organizational behavior textbooks about the factors that impact organizational outcomes, such as employee retention, this…

Abstract

Purpose

While there is ample discussion in management studies and organizational behavior textbooks about the factors that impact organizational outcomes, such as employee retention, this research is focused on exploring the previously unexplored question of how procedural justice, job characteristics and meaningful work influence employees' intentions to leave their organizations. As such, this study aims to investigate the impact of procedural justice on employees' intentions to leave, both independently and in conjunction with job characteristics and meaningful work as mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) to develop the research model and for hypothesis testing. The path model is assessed using critical model fit indices and measures of goodness of fit.

Findings

The results reveal a negative relationship between procedural justice and employees’ intentions to leave. This negative relationship persists and is strengthened when both job characteristics and meaningful work act as mediators. Although job characteristics only exerted a significant effect through indirect effects, meaningful work demonstrated a significant negative impact on the intentions to leave through both direct and indirect effects.

Originality/value

This study presents a new perspective on employee retention by proposing an original mediation-based path model. Through the testing of eleven hypotheses, the study reveals the intricate relationships between the four constructs examined. The findings provide valuable insights that can serve as a basis for future research in management studies and organizational behavior.

Details

Organization Management Journal, vol. 21 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2753-8567

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 10 November 2022

Xinxing Yin, Juan Chen, Wenxin Yu, Yuan Huang, Wenxiang Wei, Xinjie Xiang and Hao Yan

This study aims to improve the complexity of chaotic systems and the security accuracy of information encrypted transmission. Applying five-dimensional memristive Hopfield neural…

Abstract

Purpose

This study aims to improve the complexity of chaotic systems and the security accuracy of information encrypted transmission. Applying five-dimensional memristive Hopfield neural network (5D-HNN) to secure communication will greatly improve the confidentiality of signal transmission and greatly enhance the anticracking ability of the system.

Design/methodology/approach

Chaos masking: Chaos masking is the process of superimposing a message signal directly into a chaotic signal and masking the signal using the randomness of the chaotic output. Synchronous coupling: The coupled synchronization method first replicates the drive system to get the response system, and then adds the appropriate coupling term between the drive The synchronization error and the coupling term of the system will eventually converge to zero with time. The synchronization error and coupling term of the system will eventually converge to zero over time.

Findings

A 5D memristive neural network is obtained based on the original four-dimensional memristive neural network through the feedback control method. The system has five equations and contains infinite balance points. Compared with other systems, the 5D-HNN has rich dynamic behaviors, and the most unique feature is that it has multistable characteristics. First, its dissipation property, equilibrium point stability, bifurcation graph and Lyapunov exponent spectrum are analyzed to verify its chaotic state, and the system characteristics are more complex. Different dynamic characteristics can be obtained by adjusting the parameter k.

Originality/value

A new 5D memristive HNN is proposed and used in the secure communication

Details

Circuit World, vol. 50 no. 1
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0305-6120

Keywords

Article
Publication date: 21 June 2023

Merve Aydogan, Javier de Esteban Curiel, Arta Antonovica and Gurel Cetin

COVID-19, like many previous crises, proved once more that some hospitality and tourism organizations are more crises resilient than others. Despite increasing frequency and…

Abstract

Purpose

COVID-19, like many previous crises, proved once more that some hospitality and tourism organizations are more crises resilient than others. Despite increasing frequency and magnitude of crises, little is known about the features of crises resilient organizations and mitigation strategies they adopt. If the characteristics of such resiliency are identified, those strengths might be targeted. Hence, the purpose of this study is to identify characteristics of crises resilient organizations by analyzing the interface between different organizational characteristics, recovery strategies they adopted and impacts of COVID-19 on individual hospitality and tourism organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A global sample of 202 respondents from 20 countries and four continents, representing different sectors of the hospitality and tourism industry, participated in the survey. Descriptive analysis and cluster analysis were used to rank the items and group hospitality and tourism organizations based on their crises resiliency.

Findings

Service quality, loyal customers, branding, high paid in capital, domestic market base, hygiene and safety image, information and communication technology adoption, product and market diversification and restructuring debts emerged as major characteristics and strategies of crises resilient organizations. Using cluster analysis, four different groups of organizations were identified. Based on the impacts of COVID-19 on these organizations, Cluster-1 emerged as significantly more crises resilient, whereas Cluster-4 organizations were significantly more vulnerable to crises. Their characteristics and mitigation strategies they adopted were discussed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper not only identified features of crises resilient organizations and successful mitigation strategies but also measured their impact on various performance indicators. Future studies might use characteristics, mitigation strategies and performance indicators identified in this study.

Practical implications

Based on the findings, tourism organizations would focus on strengthening characteristics and implementing strategies that make crises resilient organizations. Public bodies and destination management would also set their decision criteria based on these findings to create a more resilient tourism industry.

Originality/value

This research not only identifies how hospitality and tourism organizations are affected by COVID-19 but also how these impacts change based on different organizational characteristics and strategies. Understanding which organizational characteristics affect the crises vulnerability of hospitality and tourism organizations might inform risk and crises management literature and structural design elements in tourism businesses, hence offer both theoretical and practical implications.

Details

International Journal of Contemporary Hospitality Management, vol. 36 no. 4
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 0959-6119

Keywords

Open Access
Article
Publication date: 1 May 2023

Luis de Enrique Arnau and María José Pinillos-Costa

This paper aims to analyze the thematic content of research addressing the relation between board of directors (BoD) and business transformation (BT) to obtain better…

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to analyze the thematic content of research addressing the relation between board of directors (BoD) and business transformation (BT) to obtain better understanding of status and to derive future areas of study.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reviews literature through a bibliometric analysis based on co-occurrence of articles published in Web of Science Core Collection ™ (WoS) between 1990 and 2022, identifying key concepts, setting network of relations and identifying the strategic importance of clusters of concepts. Findings and implications are discussed, future lines of research are presented and limitations are noted.

Findings

Thematic research on boards addressing transformation shifted from the analysis of individuals' traits to an organizational approach with majority of research centered on the role of boards under different theories and the consequences of strategic changes on firm's performance. Further research is around gender diversity, sustainability and the moderating role of ownership structure and business culture.

Research limitations/implications

Some limitations are also noted. This analysis considered articles indexed by WoS for Q1+Q2 publications as source of literature, while including others such as Scopus would increase knowledge base. Also, to identify main streams of research, the authors considered keywords with cumulative occurrence spanning from 30% to 40% while increasing this percentage would add terms that might improve precision to the connections among keywords. Other techniques could have been used such as co-citation or bibliographic coupling, although the authors find these as better suited to investigate the basic structure behind the foundational knowledge of the topic while the authors’ intention was to understand the positioning of study fields regarding the degree of research progress.

Practical implications

This paper presents some practical implications for future researchers. Those who wish to leverage previous evidence to address new research questions might look into principal themes covering BoD dynamics and composition to exert CG, and the relation between strategic decisions and performance measured by different variables. Those who wish to position their research as new findings to shed light on dilemmas, might find opportunities in the fields of climate change-sustainability, R&D for growth and innovation under the perspective of intangible assets.

Originality/value

This paper, is the first to the best of the authors’ knowledge, to identify research clusters for the intersection of boards and transformation and to determine their stage of development.

研究目的

本文旨在分析探討董事會與業務轉型之間的關係的學術研究的專題內容,以能對有關課題的研究狀況有更深入的了解,並擬從分析中取得未來可供研究的範疇。

研究設計/方法/理念

本文透過科學計量分析法來進行文獻探討。方法乃基於在1990年至2022年期間在Web of Science Core Collection 刊載的學術論文的共現分析而進行; 透過這個研究方法,研究人員建立了聯繫的網絡,並確認了各個概念群組的策略重要性。在本文中,研究結果和研究結果帶來的啟示會被討論,未來的研究領域和方針也會得到說明,研究的局限也會被認定和記錄下來。

研究結果

探討董事會而又涉及業務轉型的專題研究,由當初集中探討董事個人的特質、轉移到現在研究整體的組織理念和處事取向,而就後者來說,大部份的研究都集中於在不同的理論框架裡董事會所扮演的角色,以及因策略上的改變而為公司的業績帶來的影響。進一步的學術研究都是圍繞著性別多元化、可持續性、所有權結構所扮演的緩和角色和商業文化的研究。

研究的原創性/價值

盡我們所知,本文乃為首篇學術論文,去鑑定關於董事會與業務轉型之間的關聯的研究集群,也是首篇學術論文,去確定這些研究集群的發展階段。

Details

European Journal of Management and Business Economics, vol. 33 no. 2
Type: Research Article
ISSN: 2444-8451

Keywords

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