bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The elephant–livestock interface modulates anthrax suitability in India
Authors: Walsh Michael G. , Mor Siobhan M. , Hossain Shah
Published: March 2019

Anthrax is a potentially life-threatening bacterial disease that can spread between wild and livestock animals and humans. Transmission typically occurs indirectly via environmental exposure, with devastating consequences for human and animal health, as well as pastoralist economies. India has a high annual occurrence of anthrax in some regions, but a country-wide delineation of risk has not yet been undertaken. The current study modelled the geographical suitability of anthrax across India and its associated environmental features using a biogeographic application of machine learning. Both biotic and abiotic features contributed to risk across multiple scales of influence. The elephant–livestock interface was the dominant feature in delineating anthrax suitability. In addition, water–soil balance, soil chemistry and historical forest loss were also influential. These findings suggest that the elephant–livestock interface plays an important role in the cycling of anthrax in India. Livestock prevention efforts targeting this interface, particularly within anthropogenic ecotones, may yield successes in reducing ongoing transmission between animal hosts and subsequent zoonotic transmission to humans.
Cyclical environments drive variation in life-history strategies: a general theory of cyclical phenology
Authors: Park John S.
Published: March 2019

Cycles, such as seasons or tides, characterize many systems in nature. Overwhelming evidence shows that climate change-driven alterations to environmental cycles—such as longer seasons—are associated with phenological shifts around the world, suggesting a deep link between environmental cycles and life cycles. However, general mechanisms of life-history evolution in cyclical environments are still not well understood. Here, I build a demographic framework and ask how life-history strategies optimize fitness when the environment perturbs a structured population cyclically and how strategies should change as cyclicality changes. I show that cycle periodicity alters optimality predictions of classic life-history theory because repeated cycles have rippling selective consequences over time and generations. Notably, fitness landscapes that relate environmental cyclicality and life-history optimality vary dramatically depending on which trade-offs govern a given species. The model tuned with known life-history trade-offs in a marine intertidal copepodTigriopus californicussuccessfully predicted the shape of life-history variation across natural populations spanning a gradient of tidal periodicities. This framework shows how environmental cycles can drive life-history variation—without complex assumptions of individual responses to cues such as temperature—thus expanding the range of life-history diversity explained by theory and providing a basis for adaptive phenology.
Interoceptive accuracy moderates the response to a glucose load: a test of the predictive coding framework
Authors: Young Hayley A. , Gaylor Chantelle M. , de Kerckhove Danielle , Watkins Heather , Benton David
Published: March 2019

Recently, interoception and homeostasis have been described in terms of predictive coding and active inference. Afferent signals update prior predictions about the state of the body, and stimulate the autonomic mediation of homeostasis. Performance on tests of interoceptive accuracy (IAc) may indicate an individual's ability to assign precision to interoceptive signals, thus determining the relative influence of ascending signals and the descending prior predictions. Accordingly, individuals with high IAc should be better able to regulate during the postprandial period. One hundred females were allocated to consume glucose, an artificially sweetened drink, water or no drink. Before, and 30 min after a drink, IAc, heart rate (HR) and blood glucose (BG) were measured, and participants rated their hunger, thirst and mood. A higher IAc was related to lower BG levels, a decline in anxiety and a higher HR, after consuming glucose. A higher IAc also resulted in a larger decline in hunger if they consumed either glucose or sucralose. These data support the role of active inference in interoception and homeostasis, and suggest that the ability to attend to interoceptive signals may be critical to the maintenance of physical and emotional health.
The gut microbiota regulates mouse biliary regenerative responses
Authors: Liu Wenli , Yan Chao , Zhang Bo , Chen Renjin , Yu Qian , Li Xiangyang , Zhang Yuzhao , Hua Hui , Wei Yanxia , Kou Yanbo , Liu Zhuanzhuan , Tang Renxian , Zheng Kuiyang , Wang Yugang
Published: March 2019

Injury to the biliary epithelium triggers cholangiopathies. However, factors involved in regulating the pathogenesis remains incompletely understood. Here, we report that the gut microbiota is important in regulating hepatobiliary fibroproliferative regenerative process. In helminth Clonorchis sinensis-induced bile duct injury model, wild-type mice showed more extensive peribiliary fibroproliferative responses than non-littermate IL-33-deficient mice. However, these reactions could be attenuated by co-housing of the animals together. In the meantime, the relatively fibroproliferative-resistant IL-33-deficient mice could become fibroproliferative-responsive especially in large intrahepatic bile duct by antibiotics treatment. Furthermore, microbiota-derived metabolite butyrate was able to inhibit biliary organoid expansion in vitro and temper 3,5-diethoxycarbonyl-1,4-dihydrocollidine-induced biliary fibrosis in vivo. Together, our data implies a potential way of management of hepatobiliary diseases by modulating gut microbiota.
The quail as an avian model system: its genome provides insights into social behaviour, seasonal biology and infectious disease response
Authors: Morris Katrina M , Hindle Matthew M , Boitard Simon , Burt David W , Danner Angela F , Eory Lel , Forrest Heather L , Gourichon David , Gros Jerome , Hillier LaDeana , Jaffredo Thierry , Khoury Hanane , Lansford Rusty , Leterrier Christine , Loudon Andrew , Mason Andrew S , Meddle Simone L , Minvielle Francis , Minx Patrick , Pitel Frédérique , Seiler J Patrick , Shimmura Tsuyoshi , Tomlinson Chad , Vignal Alain , Webster Robert G , Yoshimura Takashi , Warren Wesley C , Smith Jacqueline
Published: March 2019

The Japanese quail (Coturnix japonica) is a popular domestic poultry species and an increasingly significant model species in avian developmental, behavioural and disease research. We have produced a high-quality quail genome sequence, spanning 0.93 Gb assigned to 33 chromosomes. In terms of contiguity, assembly statistics, gene content and chromosomal organization, the quail genome shows high similarity to the chicken genome. We demonstrate the utility of this genome through three diverse applications. First, we identify selection signatures and candidate genes associated with social behaviour in the quail genome, an important agricultural and domestication trait. Second, we investigate the effects and interaction of photoperiod and temperature on the transcriptome of the quail medial basal hypothalamus, revealing key mechanisms of photoperiodism. Finally, we investigate the response of quail to H5N1 influenza infection. In quail lung, many critical immune genes and pathways were downregulated, and this may be key to the susceptibility of quail to H5N1. This genome will facilitate further research into diverse research questions using the quail as a model avian species.
Nanopore sequencing of the pharmacogene CYP2D6 allows simultaneous haplotyping and detection of duplications
Authors: Liau Yusmiati , Maggo Simran , Miller Allison L. , Pearson John F. , Kennedy Martin A. , Cree Simone L.
Published: March 2019

Background

The accurate genotyping of CYP2D6 is hindered by the very polymorphic nature of the gene, high homology with its pseudogene CYP2D7, and the occurrence of structural variations. Long read sequencing offers the promise of overcoming some of these challenges, along with the advantage of straightforward variant phasing. We have established methods for sequencing and analysis of DNA amplicons containing the whole CYP2D6 gene, using the GridION nanopore sequencer.

Materials and methods

Seven reference and 25 clinical samples covering various haplotypes including gene duplication were barcoded and sequenced over two sequencing runs. Sequenced raw reads were analyzed using a pipeline of bioinformatics tools including two mapping tools and two variant calling tools.

Results

Using minimap2 and nanopolish (mapping and variant calling tools respectively) resulted in the most accurate variant detection. Haplotypes of 52 alleles could be matched accurately to known alleles or subvariants, while the remaining 12 alleles being assigned as novel star (*) allele of novel subvariants of known alleles in the PharmVar CYP2D6 haplotype database. Allele duplication could be detected by analyzing the allelic balance between the sample haplotypes.

Conclusion

Nanopore sequencing of CYP2D6 offers a high throughput method for genotyping, accurate haplotyping, and detection of new variants and duplicated alleles.
The structure of an iron-containing alcohol dehydrogenase from a hyperthermophilic archaeon in two chemical states
Authors: Larson Steven B. , Jones Jesse A. , McPherson Alexander
Published: March 2019

An iron-containing alcohol dehydrogenase (FeADH) from the hyperthermophilic archaeonThermococcus thioreducenswas crystallized in unit cells belonging to space groupsP21,P212121andP43212, and the crystal structures were solved at 2.4, 2.1 and 1.9 Å resolution, respectively, by molecular replacement using the FeADH fromThermotoga maritima(Schwarzenbacheret al., 2004) as a model. In the monoclinic and orthorhombic crystals the dehydrogenase (molecular mass 41.5 kDa) existed as a dimer containing a twofold noncrystallographic symmetry axis, which was crystallographic in the tetragonal crystals. In the monoclinic and orthorhombic asymmetric units one molecule contained iron and an NADP molecule, while the other did not. The tetragonal crystals lacked both iron and NADP. The structure is very similar to that of the FeADH fromT. maritima(average r.m.s. difference for Cαatoms of 1.8 Å for 341 aligned atoms). The iron, which is internally sequestered, is bound entirely by amino acids from one domain: three histidines and one aspartic acid. The coenzyme is in an extended conformation, a feature that is common to the large superfamily of NADH-dependent dehydrogenases that share a classical nucleotide-binding domain. A long broad tunnel passes entirely through the enzyme between the two domains, completely encapsulating the coenzyme.
Crystal structure of the putative peptide-binding protein AppA fromClostridium difficile
Authors: Hughes Adam , Wilson Samuel , Dodson Eleanor J. , Turkenburg Johan P. , Wilkinson Anthony J.
Published: March 2019

Peptides play an important signalling role inBacillus subtilis, where their uptake by one of two ABC-type oligopeptide transporters, Opp and App, is required for efficient sporulation. Homologues of these transporters inClostridium difficilehave been characterized, but their role, and hence that of peptides, in regulating sporulation in this organism is less clear. Here, the oligopeptide-binding receptor proteins for these transporters,CdAppA andCdOppA, have been purified and partially characterized, and the crystal structure ofCdAppA has been determined in an open unliganded form. Peptide binding to either protein could not be observed in Thermofluor assays with a set of ten peptides of varying lengths and compositions. Re-examination of the protein sequences together with structure comparisons prompts the proposal thatCdAppA is not a versatile peptide-binding protein but instead may bind a restricted set of peptides. Meanwhile,CdOppA is likely to be the receptor protein for a nickel-uptake system.
Crystal structure of protein tyrosine phosphatase-2 from Cydia pomonella granulovirus
Authors: Huang Guangmei , Oliver Michael R. , Keown Jeremy R. , Goldstone David C. , Metcalf Peter
Published: March 2019

Many viral genomes encode kinase and phosphatase enzymes to manipulate pathways that are controlled by phosphorylation events. The majority of viral phosphatase genes occur in the Baculoviridae and Poxviridae families of large DNA viruses. The corresponding protein sequences belong to four major homology groups, and structures are currently available for only two of these. Here, the first structure from the third group, the protein tyrosine phosphatase-2 (PTP-2) class of viral phosphatases, is described. It is shown that Cydia pomonella granulovirus PTP-2 has the same general fold and active-site architecture as described previously for other phosphatases, in the absence of significant sequence homology. Additionally, it has a novel C-terminal extension in an area corresponding to the interface of dimeric poxvirus phosphatases belonging to the Tyr–Ser protein phosphatase homology group.
Exploring consumers’ purchase intention in social commerce
Authors: Liu Chao , Bao Zheshi , Zheng Chuiyong
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore motivations that drive consumers’ purchase intention in social commerce, and then examine whether social presence can work as a moderator in this process.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model was developed based on stimulus-organism-response model by integrating trust, argument quality, social presence and purchase intention. Using the data collected from 288 valid online questionnaires, the proposed model was empirically assessed by partial least square (PLS) SEM.

Findings

The results show that trust toward social commerce site and trust toward site members are determinants of purchase intention, and the later one can be triggered by the argument quality of consumer-generated contents (perceived informativeness and perceived persuasiveness). Besides, consumers’ social presence has a moderating effect on the relationship between trust toward site members and purchase intention.

Originality/value

This study indicates a new mechanism of trust based on the context of social commerce. The findings will contribute to social commerce literature by offering a well proven conceptual model that facilitates the understanding of consumers’ purchase decision-making processes.
Social media and Chinese consumers’ environmentally sustainable apparel purchase intentions
Authors: Zhao Li , Lee Stacy H. , Copeland Lauren Reiter
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Social media and sustainability are changing Chinese consumers’ consumption behavior in notable ways. Few apparel industry sustainability efforts are enforced or well known in China. As China operates its own social media sites, it is necessary to study Chinese social media, rather than Western types, in order to understand its influence on Chinese consumer behavior with regard to sustainability. By extending the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and the prototype willingness model, the purpose of this paper is to investigate how Chinese consumers were taught their environmentally sustainable apparel (ESA) consumption behavior through social media, and also how the influence of peers affected their purchase intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 238 survey responses were collected and analyzed from a Chinese research firm in 2016. In accord with the study objectives, an exploratory factor analysis was first conducted, and then a two-step analysis of a structural equation model was employed for hypothesis testing. To test the significance of hypothesized mediated effects, a bootstrap procedure with 2,000 bootstrap samples from the original data was used to compute bias-corrected 95% CI for indirect effects. Moreover, hierarchical regressions were demonstrated to verify the unique contribution of social media influence.

Findings

The study findings support the previous literature that indicated positive attitudes toward environmentally sustainable purchasing behavior increased as Chinese consumers learned about social and environmental issues. Also, results of the analysis revealed that Chinese consumers’ engagement with social media and their peers were important social influences that were directly tied to increasing sustainable apparel purchase intentions.

Originality/value

By extending two grand theories of the prototype willingness model theory and the TRA, this study underlines a novel link between the influence of social media and ESA purchase intentions among Chinese consumers. Results are valuable in a global context as it is one of only a few studies to explore Chinese consumers’ purchase intentions of ESA through an exclusive social media platform – WeChat – in China.
Physicochemical properties, bioactive components, antioxidant and antimicrobial potentials of some selected honeys from different provinces of Turkey
Authors: Erturk Ömer , Kalın Sefine , Ayvaz Melek Çol
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to characterize monofloral and heterofloral honey samples (chestnut, lavandula, acacia and sunflower) from different regions of Turkey according to their physicochemical (moisture content, acidity, ash, sucrose, reducing sugar and hydroxymethylfurfural content) and biochemical properties to compare regional and species differences that are thought to contain different types of plant sources.

Design/methodology/approach

Physicochemical investigations were performed according to AOAC methods. Mineral analysis and volatile analysis were performed by using atomic absorption spectrometry and GC–MS, respectively. Antimicrobial activities of honey samples were evaluated based on disc diffusion method and minimum inhibition concentration (MIC) values. The assays followed to determine total phenolic content and antioxidative and activities are spectrophotometric methods.

Findings

The obtained values of physicochemical parameters are among the values that can be accepted according to legal regulations. The most abundant mineral was potassium, which made up 81 per cent of the total mineral content, ranging between 165.7 and 301.6 mg/kg. A total of 87 different volatile components, some of which are highlighted in the literature to have antimicrobial and antioxidant effects, were detected. The maximum phenolic content, antioxidant activity against DPPH radical and ferric reducing ability were detected in the chestnut honeys. All tested honeys showed antimicrobial activity with MIC values between 6.25 and 50 µg/mL.

Originality/value

The present study has the feature of being a large study in terms of the region from where honey samples were selected and choice of analysis. The values obtained from physicochemical parameters reveal that the honeys from related region can be consumed with confidence. The biological properties found in honeys make them products of high added value and excellent quality.
Does social media usage affect online purchasing intention for wine? The moderating role of subjective and objective knowledge
Authors: Pucci Tommaso , Casprini Elena , Nosi Costanza , Zanni Lorenzo
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence that social media usage has on the online purchases of wine and to examine whether objective and subjective knowledge moderates this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was completed by a sample of 2,597 Italian wine consumers. A multinomial logistic model was used to assess how the investigated variables influenced online purchasing behavior.

Findings

Social media usage was found to be positively related to online wine buying, and consumer’s objective and subjective knowledge moderates the relationship between social media usage and online wine purchasing.

Research limitations/implications

Wineries should acknowledge the relevance of social media in favoring online wine buying and adopt integrated multi-channel marketing strategies. Given that knowledge moderates the relationship between social media usage and online wine buying, in order to optimize the channel management, wineries should segment customers and prospects based on subjective and objective product knowledge.

Originality/value

The study represents one of the first attempts to investigate social media use and online wine purchasing behavior in Italy. In addition, it sheds light on previous research on the influence that objective and subjective knowledge has on consumer behavior.
Relationship between barriers and key factors of dairy production in Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Ferenhof Helio Aisenberg , Bonamigo Andrei , Cunha Andre Da , Tezza Rafael , Forcellini Fernando Antonio
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to verify if, in the dairy business ecosystem (dairy farmers, dairy cooperatives, government, research agencies, consultants and financial institutions) perspective, the dairy production barriers presented by Bonamigo et al. (2016b) can be mitigated through the dairy production key factors indicated in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

To achieve the proposed goal of this study, the methodology used for the study comprises three stages: exploratory search in the literature to identify barriers and drivers of dairy production, data collection and statistical model. For the first stage, the authors conducted exploratory research in the literature, to better understand the dairy production ecosystem and to find arguments that characterize the barriers and drivers of this activity. In the second stage, a structured questionnaire with 13 closed-ended questions in a single block, with ordinal responses, following the suggestion of Likert (1932), was developed and applied to the dairy production ecosystem players of Santa Catarina, Brazil. A total of 305 responses suitable for analysis based, that were analyzed through an exploratory factorial analysis and modeling of structural equations via partial least squares, resulting in the Statistical model.

Findings

Based on the analyses results, the authors verified that there is an inverse association between the characteristics of the barriers and the dairy production key factors. In this sense, the authors can confirm that the increase of the loads in the dairy production key factors, reduce loads of the milk production barriers. Based on the results of this test, new theoretical and practical insights can be identified to develop new studies with the aim of boosting the dairy sector development as well as providing support in the decision making of the dairy system players.

Research limitations/implications

This study may not have enabled a complete coverage of all existing peer-reviewed articles in the field of dairy production. It seems reasonable to assume that the review process covered a significant proportion of studies available.

Originality/value

It is the first study that compares identifies barriers and key factors of dairy production in Santa Catarina using as an analytical lens the business ecosystem.
Integrated design experiences for energy-efficient housing in Chile
Authors: Echeverria-Valiente Ernesto , Garcia-Alvarado Rodrigo , Celis-D’Amico Flavio , Saelzer-Fuica Gerardo
Published: March 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to review the application of integrated design strategies in several cases of housing in south-central Chile in search of ways to significantly reduce energy loss and demand.

Design/methodology/approach

First, seven main design features of energy-efficient buildings in developed countries were identified. Second, these features were reviewed in two professional case studies from architectural practices and two academic exercises on residential design in south-central Chile. In all cases reviewed, characteristics of integrated design were verified to reductions in energy loss and demand. Finally, the procedure implemented was evaluated through surveys of those practitioners responsible for each experience studied.

Findings

This process made it possible to highlight four main features of integrated design, namely, pre-established performance goals, interdisciplinary collaboration, regular broad-ranging meetings and the use of performance assessment tools. With these techniques, reductions of more than 50 per cent in the energy requirements of the housing designs were achieved, while safeguarding the functional, aesthetic and economic aspects of the projects.

Research limitations/implications

However, professionals currently working in this field did express their concern regarding responsibility for the design and the time needed to complete the process.

Practical implications

Furthermore, this experience also identified similar modifications made to the design of the houses, which revealed general possibilities for improving energy performance.

Social implications

The conclusions obtained have been exposed in conferences and graduate programmes and applied in two real projects for the benefit of society: first, the improvement of building envelopes in social housing in Temuco; and second, CASA+, a modular, prefabricated and energy efficient house prototype.

Originality/value

This paper carried out a novel review of an integrated design process in housing cases of developing countries, and identified the key features, which improve the environmental performance of dwellings.
Evaluation of an organization-based psychological first aid intervention
Authors: M. Hechanova Ma. Regina , Manaois Jason O. , V. Masuda Hiro
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop and assess an organizational intervention consisting of psychological first aid (PFA) and Open Space Technology (OST), and its impact on individual resilience and perceived organization support.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a non-experimental, pre-test and post-test design. Measures of employee post-trauma, resilience and organizational support were measured before and after the PFA intervention.

Findings

Paired sample t-tests revealed significant pre/post-increases in individual resilience and perceived organization support. Correlational analysis revealed that resilience was associated with perceived organization support. Evaluations revealed that participants found the small group sharing, information about coping and the open space problem-solving activities particularly worthwhile.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of the study was the lack of a randomized control group in the design. Future research may utilize more robust designs such as experimental and longitudinal studies to evaluate impact.

Practical implications

This study indicates how the use of an organization-based intervention can be adopted for employees who undergo an emergency in their workplace. The combination of PFA and OST was found to be valuable in improving individual resilience and perceived organization support. In addition, OST can better facilitate problem-solving performance in intact groups, as it enhances collective interaction and community efficacy among survivors.

Originality/value

The study contributes to the dearth of knowledge on the use of PFA when used in an intact organization as part of its crisis intervention.
The use of uncertain scenarios in disaster risk reduction: a systematic review
Authors: Jafari Hamid , Jonidi Jafari Ahmad , Nekoei-Moghadam Mahmoud , Goharinezhad Salime
Published: March 2019

Purpose

In recent years, futures study methods, especially scenario analysis, are used to plan for disaster and emergency management. Scenario method is suitable for public level policy making. Scenarios generated alternative descriptive futures in all of the development field such as disaster studies. This paper aims to systematically review the articles that generated scenarios in disaster management to attain gaps, challenges and opportunities related to use of scenario analysis in disasters.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a systematic review that was conducted based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The keywords that searched included “disaster,” “emergency,” “crisis,” “disruptive event,” “futures study,” “foresight,” “scenario,” “community-based scenario planning,” “participatory scenario planning,” “scenario planning” and “scenario analysis.” The Google Scholar, ISI Web of Science, Science Direct, PubMed and Scopus databases were searched.

Findings

A total of 981 article gathered after initial search between electronic databases. At final step, only ten articles included in the study. The selected articles compared according to many aspects. Most of the scenarios that developed in disaster management and planning concentrated on climate change and flooding related hazards. Many of studies developed three or four scenarios that it seems the number is suitable for disaster planning.

Originality/value

The paper serves as an original guideline for disaster planning.
Validation of the positive and negative affect schedule (PANAS) among employees in Indian manufacturing and service sector organisations
Authors: Dahiya Rinki , Rangnekar Santosh
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the psychometric properties of the positive and negative affect schedule (PANAS) in a sample of employees working in Indian manufacturing and service sector organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected through self-administered structured questionnaire from 53 employees for the pilot study and 383 employees for the final study. For the psychometric evaluation of the PANAS, item analysis, reliability, exploratory factor analysis, convergent–discriminant validity and confirmatory factor analysis were performed.

Findings

Results reveal that the two-factor model of affect (positive and negative affects) is valid in the Indian manufacturing and service sector organisations.

Originality/value

Despite being the largest skilled labour facilitator for the work economy and second largest populated country, India lags behind in studies evaluating affect at work when compared to western nations. The present study was taken up to validate an instrument to measure affect at work in Indian manufacturing and service sector organisations, which is a new contribution in the field. Validation of this instrument would help in promoting studies on affect at work in India and comparative studies across cultures.
R&D mode of intelligent safety clothing under micro-interaction concept
Authors: Shen Lei , Liu Qing , Xue Zhebin , Zhang Li
Published: March 2019

Purpose

With the application and development of intelligent clothing and wearable technology, the term “micro-interaction” has gradually entered people’s lives. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the concept of “micro-interaction” as the design principle, starting from the consumer demand, combing the realization mode of the intelligent safety clothing in recent years, and finds out the existing problems in the design of the intelligent safety clothing.

Findings

Under the concept of micro-interaction, a new theoretical model has been proposed to study intelligent safety clothing. Finally, the paper also emphasizes the importance of the industrialization of the proposed model.

Originality/value

The paper proposes a new research and development mode for intelligent clothing in safety protection area which is a pioneering study and can be valuable for safety clothing manufacturers to produce more functional and attractive products.
Individual competences for sustainable purchasing and supply management (SPSM)
Authors: Schulze Heike , Bals Lydia , Johnsen Thomas E.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Implementing sustainability into global supply networks remains a challenge for companies. Purchasing and supply management (PSM) interacts closely with supply network actors, thus influencing how the firm’s value creation is delivered. While previous sustainable PSM (SPSM) research has shed light on how to manage sustainability on an organizational level, the individual competences PSM professionals require are less understood. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a systematic literature review to determine the current research coverage of specific competences and knowledge required to implement sustainability. The authors complemented this with data from 46 interviews with practitioners. From coding the data with NVivo, a first comprehensive competence overview for SPSM was developed.

Findings

The literature review results, complemented with interview data, highlight that functional-oriented, cognition-oriented, social-oriented and meta-oriented competences form part of a comprehensive SPSM competence model. We propose a framework that includes these, and integrates two behavioral moderators on the organizational level, i.e. situational enabling, as well as empowerment and obligation.

Research limitations/implications

While the proposed framework provides a basic first systematization of SPSM competences, further research is needed to extend it. There is ample opportunity to shed further light on both individual and organizational-level factors that influence the application of SPSM competences, and therefore SPSM behavior.

Practical implications

The results have implications for higher education and professional training programs in companies. The framework provides an overview of competences needed for SPSM. The discussion highlights the need to apply education and training methods for different types of competences that are suitable for conveying implicit knowledge apart from explicit knowledge.

Originality/value

Adressing a current research gap in sustainability-related competences in PSM, the overall framework highlights SPSM competences of interest to both scholars and managers alike.
Multiple supply chain adoption under uncertainty
Authors: Liu Chia-Yi , Lee Cheng-Yu
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The spatial and psychological distance within agri-food chains provides both profit and risk for supply chain members. Grounded on the transaction cost economics (TCE) and institutional theory (IT), the purpose of this paper is to test whether the adoption of multiple supply chains (MSCs), which adopt both traditional and shortened supply chains, can be used to manage uncertainty and mitigate the risk associated with a supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to test the hypothesis, matched questionnaire surveys were developed to collect the data from farm managers and consumers. Completed questionnaires were received from 112 respondents. The hierarchical regression analysis was performed to test hypotheses.

Findings

The result shows the positive effects of environmental and behavioral uncertainties on MSC adoption and represents the diminished moderating effects of institutions (industrial and consumption tendency) on the relationship between uncertainties and MSA adoption.

Research limitations/implications

This study only explored producers and their recommended consumers; future studies can undertake questionnaire designs (one producer-to-many consumers) and empirical analyses with analytic hierarchy process theory to reexamine the hypotheses proposed in this study.

Practical implications

MSC adoption is a way to manage uncertainties resulting from spatial and psychological distance in the supply chain. Producers and consumers show their risk preferences by SC adoption after considering pre-constructed societal norms. Therefore, the consumers’ and producers’ choice of a supply chain reflects a process of communicating risk. The adoption of a mixed governance mode (MSC adoption) and accessing information about common practices are two ways to decrease such uncertainties.

Social implications

There are multiple goals (traceability, fairness, efficiency, well-being) in the food supply chain that may be satisfied by MSC adoption. Therefore, policymakers should understand the different values of various supply chains and facilitate the development of various supply chain modes.

Originality/value

This study integrated the undersocialized and oversocialized perspectives (TCE and IT) to understand how uncertainties of supply chains may be diminished. Based on these perspectives, it found that the adoption of the mixed governance mode and accessing of institutional information are two ways to decrease such uncertainties.
Integrated substance use rehabilitation in a secure forensic facility
Authors: Eagle Kerri , Ma Trevor , Sinclair Barbara
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to inform the development of an evidence-based and effective rehabilitation programme to address substance use disorders in a population of patients with severe mental illness and mental disorders detained in a secure forensic psychiatric facility. A clinical review identified a high prevalence of substance use disorders in the patient population at a secure forensic facility in Sydney, Australia with only a limited number of patients being assessed and offered interventions for substance use problems.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review was undertaken specifically looking at articles between 2009 and 2017 that considered models of care or approaches to substance use rehabilitation in patients with co-morbid psychiatric disorders. Articles were considered based on their relevance to the purpose and the environment of a secure forensic facility.

Findings

The literature review emphasised the need for a cohesive model of care integrating substance use rehabilitation with mental health care. Comprehensive assessment and individualised approaches that incorporated patient choice and stages of change were considered essential components to any dual diagnosis rehabilitation programme.

Practical implications

The literature regarding rehabilitation approaches for those with severe mental illness and co-morbid substance use disorders was reasonably consistent with the models of care used in relation to criminal offenders and mental illness generally. Integrated and individualised rehabilitation approaches for dual diagnosis patients could play a significant role in forensic settings.

Originality/value

Limited robust evidence for substance use rehabilitation has been published. The authors consider the existing evidence base and the underlying theory behind substance use rehabilitation to propose a model for rehabilitation in secure forensic settings. This is the first known review of substance use rehabilitation involving mentally ill offenders with dual diagnoses in secure forensic settings. This paper is the original work of the authors.
Share repurchases: analyzing short-term and long-term wealth effects
Authors: Rozycki John , Suh Inchul
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the short-term and long-term wealth effects of two share repurchase motivations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a multi-period numerical model and a Monte Carlo simulation. The Monte Carlo simulation introduces uncertainty into firms’ market values and eliminates some restrictions used in the numerical model.

Findings

In the long term, firms that refrain from repurchasing overvalued shares outperform otherwise identical firms that do not exhibit such restraint. In the short term, firms that repurchase overvalued shares can outperform firms that refrain from such repurchases. Total returns are a function of misvaluation, the firm’s repurchase decision, the rate of return on invested cash and how long the shares remain misvalued. Share price volatility can influence share repurchase decisions.

Research limitations/implications

The models are incapable of fully modeling the complexities of a dynamic economic environment.

Practical implications

Managers and investors need to be aware of the short-term and long-term effects of share repurchases. Additionally, investors can gain insight into a firm’s share repurchase motivation by observing its cash balances over time.

Social implications

Share repurchases are a zero-sum game with potentially different short-term and long-term wealth effects.

Originality/value

When studying the wealth effects of share repurchases, it is important to consider the motivations for repurchasing shares as well as the short-term and long-term effects.
West Point: teaching leadership and risk management through investing
Authors: Stark Aaron W. , Wisniewski Isaac
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at how the faculty at West Point uses a student-managed investment fund (SMIF) to contribute to the development of Army officers.

Design/methodology/approach

The United States Military Academy at West Point started a student-managed investment fund in 1983. The Economics program, which has four finance classes within its curriculum, hosts the student-run SMIF. The students (cadets) in charge of the SMIF have recently started pursuing a risk parity strategy. This paper discusses the challenges that arise from taking on this strategy.

Findings

It argues that investment management, especially with a risk-aware strategy, helps the cadets learn to manage the risk/reward tradeoff as well as help them work on leadership skills, both of which will help them as future Army officers.

Originality/value

The authors suggest that the recent student-initiated changes to the SMIF at West Point highlight some of the leadership opportunities inherent to approaching a SMIF from a risk-aware, portfolio-based perspective. This can teach students important experiential lessons about how to manage prudent risk both in finance and as a leader.
Determinants of dividend policy: evidence from an emerging and developing market
Authors: Dewasiri N. Jayantha , Yatiwelle Koralalage Weerakoon Banda , Abdul Azeez Athambawa , Jayarathne P.G.S.A. , Kuruppuarachchi Duminda , Weerasinghe V.A.
Published: March 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the determinants of dividend policy in an emerging and developing market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employs a quantitative approach using 191 Sri Lankan firms and 1,337 firm-year observations as the sample. The authors apply a Binary Logistic Regression model to uncover the determinants of the propensity to pay dividends, and a Fixed Effect Panel Regression to investigate the determinants of dividend payout.

Findings

The authors identify past dividend decision, earnings, investment opportunities, profitability, free cash flow (FCF), corporate governance, state ownership, firm size and industry influence as the key determinants of propensity to pay dividends. In addition past dividends, investment opportunities, profitability and dividend premium are identified as the determinants of dividend payout. Moreover, there is a feedback between dividend yield and profitability in one lag and between dividend yield and dividend premium in two lags, as short-term relationships. Hence, past dividend decision or payout, profitability and investment opportunities are a common set of determinants with implications for both propensity to pay dividends and its payout. The findings support theories of dividends such as signaling, outcome, catering, life cycle, FCF and pecking order.

Practical implications

The findings are important for investors, managers and future research. Investors should focus on the determinants identified by our study when making investment decisions whereas managers should practice the same when formulating appropriate dividend policies for their firms. Future research should rely on propensity to pay dividends and its payout simultaneously to promote a theoretical consensus on the dividend determinant puzzle.

Originality/value

This is the first study that investigates determinants of propensity to pay dividends and dividend payout along with short-term relationships in a single study.
The effect of the need for subsequent seasoned equity offerings on earnings management motivation
Authors: Wang Guannan , Hagigi Moshe
Published: March 2019

Purpose

Most prior literature focuses on how managers’ immediate needs affect their current earnings management. The purpose of this paper is to expand this body of literature by investigating the managerial motivation in a multi-period setting. The authors believe that managers’ incentive to engage in earning management around current equity issues is not only determined by the companies’ immediate need, but that it is also determined by their longer-term financing need.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors examine all issuances of common stock, whether they are issued as seasoned equity offerings or whether as a reissuance of previously repurchased stock. They believe that the motivations for earnings management are similar for all these various stock-issuance events, which result in an increase in the number of outstanding common stock items.

Findings

The results of this paper reveal that those firms with less of a need for subsequent equity issuances are more likely to engage in “income- increasing” earnings management before their equity issuances. Conversely, equity issuers with more of a need for subsequent equity issuances would be more concerned about the potential impact of current earnings management on their future reported earnings and, therefore, would be less likely to manage earnings.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by extending the findings of the prior literature, showing that managerial discretion does not only affect the total magnitude of earnings management, but that it also impacts the timing of the earnings management activities. Insights gained from our research may contribute to the literature and enable a better understanding of firms’ financial reporting strategy from a longer-run view.
Beyond the logic of Lemma: the oneness of life and its environment, the oneness of within and without
Authors: Maeda Tadashi , Sado Tadahiro
Published: March 2019

In this paper the ‘analyst as a citizen in the world’ is understood as the analyst interconnecting and harmonising with his or her environment, including not only society, but also nature and the universe. In this sense, Buddhism teaches the Oneness of Life and its Environment, and links are made between Mahayana Buddhism and Jung's understanding of the Self and individuation. The Logic of Lemma in the Flower Ornament Sutra indicates that all phenomena in the world can merge with each other without losing individuality; ten stages are described from the Lotus Sutra and links are made with the development in respect to the ego; Kenji Miyazawa and his work are given as examples to illustrate this. Causality and synchronicity are explored in terms of the interaction between the individual and the environment, and three examples are given where sometimes individual, egoic, causality is more of a feature and sometimes synchronicity has a greater prominence. The paper ends with an examination of tree drawings, made over a period of 50 years by junior high school students, which indicates the way that these individuals have portrayed themselves and their relation to their environment.