bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Broad-scale phylogenomics provides insights into retrovirus–host evolution
Authors: Hayward Alexander , Grabherr Manfred , Jern Patric
Published: November 2013

Significance

Retroviruses, such as HIV, are important pathogens of vertebrates, including humans. They are capable of crossing species barriers to infect new hosts, but knowledge about the evolutionary history of retroviruses is limited. However, genomic traces of past retrovirus activities known as “endogenous retroviruses” can be screened from sequenced genomes and analyzed to improve understanding of retrovirus evolution. Here we use a unique approach to address the evolution of one group of retroviruses in a screen of 60 diverse vertebrate host genomes. We find evidence of rampant host-switching across mammalian orders by members of this group throughout their evolutionary history. We also find evidence that the spread of infective retroviruses from this group may be facilitated by rats.
In situ structure and dynamics of DNA origami determined through molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Yoo Jejoong , Aksimentiev Aleksei
Published: November 2013

Significance

Folding of DNA strands into complex three-dimensional nanoscale objects—DNA origami—has emerged as a new paradigm for practical nanotechnology. Although computer-aided design tools are often used to illustrate the idealized shape of such objects, their structural behavior in solution has been poorly characterized. Using a large supercomputer system, we created trajectories of millions of atoms to obtain the first atomically precise portrait of DNA origami in solution. The DNA origami objects were found to undergo considerable structural fluctuations, significantly departing from their idealized conformations at the nanometer scale. Analysis of the fluctuations provided a detailed map of local mechanical properties of DNA origami. Our work demonstrates the potential for atomistic simulations to facilitate rational engineering of DNA origami objects.
Microbial biogeography of wine grapes is conditioned by cultivar, vintage, and climate
Authors: Bokulich Nicholas A. , Thorngate John H. , Richardson Paul M. , Mills David A.
Published: November 2013

Significance

We demonstrate that grape-associated microbial biogeography is nonrandomly associated with regional, varietal, and climatic factors across multiscale viticultural zones. This poses a paradigm shift in our understanding of food and agricultural systems beyond grape and wine production, wherein patterning of whole microbial communities associated with agricultural products may associate with downstream quality characteristics. Elucidating the relationship between production region, climate, and microbial patterns may enhance biological control within these systems, improving the supply, consumer acceptance, and economic value of important agricultural commodities.
Hierarchical recruitment of Plk4 and regulation of centriole biogenesis by two centrosomal scaffolds, Cep192 and Cep152
Authors: Kim Tae-Sung , Park Jung-Eun , Shukla Anil , Choi Sunho , Murugan Ravichandran N. , Lee Jin H. , Ahn Mija , Rhee Kunsoo , Bang Jeong K. , Kim Bo Y. , Loncarek Jadranka , Erikson Raymond L. , Lee Kyung S.
Published: November 2013

Significance

Found in most eukaryotic cells, a centriole is a cylindrically shaped subcellular structure that plays an important role in various cellular processes, including mitotic spindle formation and chromosome segregation. Centriole duplication occurs only once per cell cycle, thus ensuring accurate control of centriole numbers to maintain genomic integrity. Although a growing body of evidence suggests that a Ser/Thr protein kinase, polo-like kinase 4 (Plk4), is a key regulator of centriole duplication, how Plk4 is recruited to centrosomes remains largely unknown. Here we showed that Plk4 dynamically localizes to distinct subcentrosomal regions by interacting with two hierarchically regulated scaffolds, Cep192 and Cep152. Highlighting the importance of these interactions, mutational disruption of either one of these interactions was sufficient to cripple Plk4-dependent centriole biogenesis.
Crossing the divide between homogeneous and heterogeneous catalysis in water oxidation
Authors: Vannucci Aaron K. , Alibabaei Leila , Losego Mark D. , Concepcion Javier J. , Kalanyan Berç , Parsons Gregory N. , Meyer Thomas J.
Published: November 2013

Significance

An atomic layer deposition (ALD) procedure is described for stabilizing surface binding of a water oxidation catalyst to the surfaces of nanostructured films of indium tin oxide. The catalyst is stabilized on the surface of electrodes by ALD of an overlayer of TiO
2
. Stabilization of surface binding allows use of basic solutions where a rate enhancement for water oxidation of ∼10
6
is observed compared with acidic conditions. There are important implications for stabilizing surface-bound molecular assemblies for applications in dye sensitized solar cells, electrocatalysis, and photoelectrocatalysis.
Targeting CXCL12 from FAP-expressing carcinoma-associated fibroblasts synergizes with anti–PD-L1 immunotherapy in pancreatic cancer
Authors: Feig Christine , Jones James O. , Kraman Matthew , Wells Richard J. B. , Deonarine Andrew , Chan Derek S. , Connell Claire M. , Roberts Edward W. , Zhao Qi , Caballero Otavia L. , Teichmann Sarah A. , Janowitz Tobias , Jodrell Duncan I. , Tuveson David A. , Fearon Douglas T.
Published: November 2013

Significance

Cancer immune evasion is well described. In some cases, this may be overcome by enhancing T-cell responses. We show that despite the presence of antitumor T cells, immunotherapeutic antibodies are ineffective in a murine pancreatic cancer model recapitulating the human disease. Removing the carcinoma-associated fibroblast (CAF) expressing fibroblast activation protein (FAP) from tumors permitted immune control of tumor growth and uncovered the efficacy of these immunotherapeutic antibodies. FAP
+
CAFs are the only tumoral source of chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 12 (CXCL12), and administering AMD3100, an inhibitor of chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 4, a CXCL12 receptor, also revealed the antitumor effects of an immunotherapeutic antibody and greatly diminished cancer cells. These findings may have wide clinical relevance because FAP
+
cells are found in almost all human adenocarcinomas.
Orexin/hypocretin system modulates amygdala-dependent threat learning through the locus coeruleus
Authors: Sears Robert M. , Fink Ann E. , Wigestrand Mattis B. , Farb Claudia R. , de Lecea Luis , LeDoux Joseph E.
Published: November 2013

Significance

The hypothalamic orexin (hypocretin) system controls survival-related processes such as food intake, arousal, and stress. Here we show that orexins also play an important role in learning about stimuli that predict harm. We demonstrate that blocking orexin activity in the noradrenergic locus coeruelus (LC) reduces, whereas increasing its activity enhances, threat learning in a Pavlovian auditory threat conditioning paradigm. Moreover, we demonstrate a direct functional connection between orexin enhancement of LC activity and amygdala-dependent memory processes. Strong, aversive memories can lead to fear and anxiety disorders that have a negative impact on individuals and their quality of life. The orexin system may represent a unique treatment target for these disorders.
Broadly neutralizing antibodies that inhibit HIV-1 cell to cell transmission
Authors: Malbec Marine , Porrot Françoise , Rua Rejane , Horwitz Joshua , Klein Florian , Halper-Stromberg Ari , Scheid Johannes F. , Eden Caroline , Mouquet Hugo , Nussenzweig Michel C. , Schwartz Olivier
Published: November 2013

The neutralizing activity of anti–HIV-1 antibodies is typically measured in assays where cell-free virions enter reporter cell lines. However, HIV-1 cell to cell transmission is a major mechanism of viral spread, and the effect of the recently described broadly neutralizing antibodies (bNAbs) on this mode of transmission remains unknown. Here we identify a subset of bNAbs that inhibit both cell-free and cell-mediated infection in primary CD4+ lymphocytes. These antibodies target either the CD4-binding site (NIH45-46 and 3BNC60) or the glycan/V3 loop (10-1074 and PGT121) on HIV-1 gp120 and act at low concentrations by inhibiting multiple steps of viral cell to cell transmission. These antibodies accumulate at virological synapses and impair the clustering and fusion of infected and target cells and the transfer of viral material to uninfected T cells. In addition, they block viral cell to cell transmission to plasmacytoid DCs and thereby interfere with type-I IFN production. Thus, only a subset of bNAbs can efficiently prevent HIV-1 cell to cell transmission, and this property should be considered an important characteristic defining antibody potency for therapeutic or prophylactic antiviral strategies.
Breast Tissue Expander—Related Infections: Perioperative Antimicrobial Regimens
Authors: Viola George M. , Raad Issam I. , Rolston Kenneth V.
Published: November 2013

Objective.

The rate of postmastectomy tissue expander (TE) infection remains excessively high, ranging between 2% and 24%. We hypothesized that current perioperative antimicrobial regimens utilized for breast TE reconstruction may be outdated as a result of recent changes in microflora and susceptibility patterns.

Design and Methods.

We reviewed the records of all patients who had a TE reconstructive procedure and developed a definite breast TE infection between 2003 and 2010 at MD Anderson Cancer Center. Antimicrobials were stratified into 3 groups: systemic perioperative, local irrigation, and oral immediate postoperative antimicrobials. These were considered discordant if they did not target the isolated organisms, while a breakthrough infection was defined as an infection that occurred despite concordant antimicrobial coverage.

Results.

Overall, 75 patients with a definite TE infection were identified. The most common organisms identified were methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus epidermidis (29%), methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (15%), and gram-negative rods (26%). The use of systemic perioperative antimicrobials was deemed discordant in 51% of the cases. Although 79% of the patients received broad-spectrum perioperative local antimicrobial irrigation, 63% developed a breakthrough infection. Even though 61% received oral postoperative prophylactic antimicrobials, 63% of the times they were deemed discordant.

Conclusions.

Contrary to the proven effectiveness of a single dose of perioperative antibiotics, the common use of local antimicrobial irrigation and prolonged postoperative oral antibiotics appears to be an inadequate component of our preventive armamentarium. Also, because methicillin-resistant staphylococcal and pseudomonal infections occurred approximately 60% of the time, at institutions that have observed an increase of these organisms, it may be prudent that perioperative antimicrobials target these microorganisms.
A 2D gel electrophoresis-based snapshot of the phosphoproteome in the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. strain PCC 6803
Authors: Mikkat Stefan , Fulda Sabine , Hagemann Martin
Published: November 2013

Cyanobacteria are photoautotrophic prokaryotes that occur in highly variable environments. Protein phosphorylation is one of the most widespread means to adjust cell metabolism and gene expression to the demands of changing growth conditions. Using a 2D gel electrophoresis-based approach and a phosphoprotein-specific dye, we investigated the protein phosphorylation pattern in cells of the model cyanobacteriumSynechocystissp. strain PCC 6803. The comparison of gels stained for total and phosphorylated proteins revealed that approximately 5 % of the protein spots seemed to be phosphoproteins, from which 32 were identified using MALDI-TOF MS. For eight of them the phosphorylated amino acid residues were mapped by subsequent mass spectrometric investigations of isolated phosphopeptides. Among the phosphoproteins, we found regulatory proteins, mostly putative anti-sigma factor antagonists, and proteins involved in translation. Moreover, a number of enzymes catalysing steps in glycolysis or the Calvin–Benson cycle were found to be phosphorylated, implying that protein phosphorylation might represent an important mechanism for the regulation of the primary carbon metabolism in cyanobacterial cells.
Bis(2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline)copper(I) pentacyanidonitrosoferrate(II)
Authors: Rusanova Julia A. , Kozachuk Olesia V. , Semenaka Valentyna V. , Dyakonenko Viktoriya V.
Published: November 2013

The asymmetric unit of the title complex [Cu(C14H12N2)2]2[Fe(CN)5(NO)], consists of a [Cu(dmp)2]+cation (dmp is 2,9-dimethyl-1,10-phenanthroline) and half an [Fe(CN)5(NO)]2−anion. The anion is disordered across an inversion center with the FeIIion slightly offset (ca0.205Å) from the inversion center in the direction of the disorderedtrans-coordinating CN/NO ligands. The anion has a distorted octahedral coordination geometry. The CuIion is coordinated by two phenanthroline ligands in a distorted tetrahedral geometry. The dihedral angle between the phenanthroline ligands is 77.16 (4) Å. In the crystal, the cations are connected to the anions by weak C—H...N hydrogen bonds. In addition, weak π–π stacking interactions are observed, with centroid–centroid distances in the range 3.512 (3)–3.859 (3) Å.
A novel treatment resource for co-occurring symptoms
Authors: L. McCallum Stacey , A. Mikocka-Walus Antonina , Keage Hannah , Churches Owen , Andrews Jane
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– This paper describes the development of a novel integrative self-directed treatment tool which uses cognitive behavioural therapy techniques to reduce anxiety symptoms in patients presenting to treatment for alcohol-related problems. More specifically, the purpose of this paper is to explore patient and health practitioner perceptions of the booklet, in order to determine its suitability and utility in the context of existing alcohol treatment services. The extent of cross-informant agreement between patient and health practitioner responses is also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

– This research utilises a cross-sectional qualitative research design using semi-structured interview methods with patients presenting to hospital for alcohol-related diseases/illnesses/accidents/injuries (n=15) and practitioners (n=10) working at inpatient, outpatient and residential substance treatment facilities.

Findings

– The present study found that the majority of patients (80 per cent) and practitioners (90 per cent) expressed a motivation to utilise the proposed booklet, agreeing that the booklet was a practical, achievable and educational resource for patients suffering from co-occurring anxiety symptoms in substance abuse facilities. Participants outlined limitations of the resource, suggesting that the booklet would be most suitable for patients with moderate to high cognitive ability, who also exhibit a motivation to change alcohol consumption and have access to additional support.

Practical implications

– Findings from the present study suggest that the booklet may be most effective in improving treatment accessibility and patient treatment seeking behaviours; rather than reducing practitioner-patient contact.

Originality/value

– This paper focuses on the development and utility of a novel resource suitable for substance abuse treatment facilities. The findings and feedback produced from the present study can assist with modifications of the intervention and in improving the effectiveness of future trials.
National identity and the perceived values of foreign products with local brands
Authors: Le Nguyen-Hau , Thi Nguyen Hai-Minh , Van Nguyen Tuan
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Based on the intra-national diversity view, this research aims to employ the concept of national identity to explain the consumer's evaluation of foreign product with local brand and the extent of consumer ethnocentrism. It then investigates how product evaluation and consumer ethnocentrism are capable of explaining consumer's perceived value of the product. Finally, it tests the impact of consumer perceived value on consumer willingness to buy.

Design/methodology/approach

– A sample of 251 consumers of local wine in Vietnam was analysed using structural equation modelling technique.

Findings

– National identity has positive impacts on product evaluation and consumer ethnocentrism. These two factors together can explain 58 percent variance of consumer's perceived value, which is the key predictor of willingness to buy. Additionally, emotional and social values are found to be important motivators of local wine consumption in Vietnam.

Research limitations/implications

– The three reflective first-order components of national identity might be alternatively modelled as formative ones. Moderating effect of consumption occasions, consumer knowledge and other social demographics should be investigated. Finally, to compare Vietnamese consumers towards local wine vs foreign wine.

Originality/value

– Among very few empirical studies about the effects of national identity on consumer's value of foreign product with local brand under a mixed effects of the perceived inferior quality of locally made product and status-oriented consumption behavior, via the full mediation of product evaluation and consumer ethnocentrism. This study also suggests a conceptual distinction between ethnocentrism and consumer ethnocentrism in studies of national identity.
The impacts of production uncertainties on world food prices
Authors: Meyer Stefan , Yu Xiaohua
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Because of large time lags between the production decision, completion and sale of output, any uncertainty during the process of production, such as bad weather, disease or financial crisis, can affect the prices within food markets systematically. Therefore, the paper aims to analyze the influence of production uncertainties on world's wheat and corn prices.

Design/methodology/approach

– In a specially designed two-step method, at first, the contributions of deterministic and uncertainty factors to wheat and corn production in around 100 countries are decomposed. Then, a panel model is applied to estimate the combined impact of each type of factors on the prices. Furthermore, the authors decompose the explained variances of the panel models in order to determine the importance of each type of factors for price adjustments.

Findings

– The uncertainties in wheat production do significantly affect both wheat and corn prices on a global scale, whilst those of corn do not. Moreover, the variance decompositions reveal that deterministic factors contribute much more to the explanation of world food prices than indeterministic factors.

Practical implications

– As deterministic factors are much more important than uncertainty factors for explaining market price movements, farmers should organize themselves to coordinate production in order to stabilize world food prices.

Originality/value

– The paper proposes a simple methodology, which enables scholars to integrate production uncertainties into food price analyses.
“The experiences of professionals working with homeless people in a clinical setting”: a qualitative study
Authors: Arslan Serdar
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe a qualitative study using an idiographic approach to explore professionals’ experience of working with homeless people. The paper took account of the approaches taken by these professionals and the perceived affects and influences inherent in their work.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper used semi-structured interviews and an interpretative phenomenological analysis methodology to explore the professionals’ experience of working with homeless people, with a sample of ten participants (professionals) working within the field.

Findings

– Three major themes emerged: helplessness; awareness of early traumas; and frustration at the response of mainstream mental health services. These findings support the view that a specialised personality disorder clinic would help professionals to refer complex cases to mental health services for a comprehensive package of support and care.

Originality/value

– There is limited research into the emotions of professionals working in a difficult clinical settings associated with homeless clients. The paper will help clinicians, health professionals and commissioners identify the coping skills and the resources and tools to support the needs and demands of these service users.
Natural convection from a vertical wall embedded in a non-Darcy porous medium filled with nanofluids
Authors: Tavakoli Sady , Ganji D.D. , Rasekh Alireza , Haghighi Babak , Jahani Hadi
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– This work aims to focus on the study of natural convection heat transfer characteristics in a vertical wall embedded in a non-Darcy porous medium filled with nanofluids.

Design/methodology/approach

– The governed partial differential equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations which are obtained by similarity solution and then have been solved through homotopy analysis method.

Findings

– The results show that Cu-water as nanofluid enhances the local Nusselt number more than other nanofluids.

Originality/value

– Nanoparticles and nanofluid enhance the local Nusselt number.
Greece is failing properly to manage public-sector redundancies
Authors: Kondylis Dimitrios
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is twofold: to identify the lack of specific HR policies in the Hellenic public sector; basically to present/discuss a variety of recommendations that managers and political administration could apply as key elements of an HR strategy aiming to manage remaining and dismissed public servants in Hellas.

Design/methodology/approach

– The article takes the form of a presentation and in-depth analysis of a series of practical measures, recommendations and actions that HR departments should focus upon and implement as elements of an HR strategy when merging and closing public organizations in Hellas.

Findings

– The article discusses the various challenges HR managers are currently faced with, and how they can be overcome.

Practical implications

– It indicates possible practical solutions in managing employees in periods of change as well as in cases of merging services and closing enterprises. It provides the opportunity for a comparative examination of the recommendations with cases of other countries.

Originality/value

– This paper offers perception and vision to HR professionals (mainly in the Hellenic public sector) on how to design and implement an HR strategy when merge and close public organizations. The analysis advocates “modern/reciprocative” (HR) management is required.
Employers need to get to grips with social-media risks
Authors: Field James , Chelliah John
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Highlights the risks employers face when employees use social media.

Design/methodology/approach

– Considers types of risks and suggests how they could be mitigated.

Findings

– Reveals that employers need two policies to manage risks associated with the use of social media; a policy covering business use of social media and another covering employees' personal use of social media.

Practical implications

– Guides managers in assessing the exposure of their organizations and clients to the risks identified.

Originality/value

– Raises the issue of organizational awareness and preparedness to undertake challenges posed by social media.
The eight imperatives of effective adult learning
Authors: Longenecker Clinton , Abernathy Rob
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Advances the view that those responsible for leading adult learning and performance improvement needs to take into account how adults truly learn.

Design/methodology/approach

– Lays out eight imperatives – based on the authors' research and experience with adult learners – which must be taken into consideration when designing, implementing and assessing adult-learning experiences in the modern workplace.

Findings

– Lists these imperatives as: relevance, importance and utility are paramount; hubris and ego can roadblock learning; the credibility of the information source is important; never underestimate the importance of clear learning objectives; adults learn by engagement and doing; accountability for learning is critical; adult learners need coaching and feedback; and plan to stave off learning distractions.

Practical implications

– Aims to get trainers to think through the specific things that can help to increase and accelerate learning across the spectrum of adult-learning opportunities in the modern workplace.

Originality/value

– Claims that, when leaders incorporate these imperatives in their learning initiatives, learning is more productive and the likelihood of a good return-on-investment rises. When these imperatives are ignored or not taken seriously, time, talent and treasure are wasted and leaders risk damaging their own credibility.
What causes increase in gas prices: the case of Ukraine
Authors: G. Goncharuk Anatoliy
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The paper aims to test the hypothesis about increasing the efficiency of gas distribution companies in the period of high gas prices on the example of Ukraine that is highly dependent on this energy source.

Design/methodology/approach

– The basic and super-efficiency models of data envelopment analysis (DEA), Malmquist total factor productivity index, three-factor production function and other tools are used to analyse the efficiency of gas distribution companies. Some factors are examined for their impact on efficiency. The results are based on the samples of 33 Ukrainian gas distribution companies.

Findings

– The author detects the decreasing returns to scale in the gas distribution sector, which means that Ukrainian gas companies get advantage reducing the volume of gas supply. Rise in prices for imported gas is reflected positively not only on the income of the exporting Russian supplier Gazprom, but also on the profitability of Ukrainian gas distribution companies. The losses associated with the policy decisions regarding a pricing of imported natural gas moved on the consumers of natural gas – the manufacturing sector of the economy and the population. Reallocation of net profit from the key export sectors of Ukraine in the gas sector is mainly caused by the fault of the state regulatory body.

Research limitations/implications

– The research is limited by single industry and by relatively short data set. The former is explained by requirement of technology (product, service) homogeneity when using DEA tools. The latter is connected with specificity of the industry and generally little numbers of firms in it.

Practical implications

– The results of researching contain the data and recommendations to companies' management and a state regulatory body to correct and optimize their decisions to make gas distribution system and economy more effective. These results can be practicable for companies' management, present and potential investors and proprietors, regulative public authority. It is possible to use the results of this research to make study for the other industries.

Originality/value

– This is the first paper that studies the impact of high natural gas prices on the economy and gas distribution system of Ukraine.
Marketing pharmaceutical and cosmetic products to the mature market
Authors: P. Moschis George , Bovell Leah
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Because the growth in the elderly population is a worldwide phenomenon, it is essential for businesses to develop an understanding of the older consumer market. Older consumers are especially important to companies operating in the pharmaceutical industry, since they spend more on medical supplies and drugs than any other age group. The aim of this paper is to examine older consumers' preferences for sources of information and methods of purchasing prescription drugs and cosmetics, as well as the reasons they choose specific drug stores and specific brands of drugs and health aids.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study employs a large national sample and various statistical procedures. Responses given to selected attitudinal and behavioral measures were tabulated and cross-tabulated by selected demographic and other characteristics. Grouping of older Americans into four segments based on aging characteristics and life events circumstances was achieved by means of cluster analysis.

Findings

– The research presented in this paper shows major differences in the way older consumers respond to various marketing offerings. The responses of older Americans do not only differ from those of their younger counterparts; they also vary widely by psychographic characteristics that are based on aging, life-changing events and circumstances older consumers have experienced. The results provide the bases for recommended strategies to most effectively appeal to older consumers in general, as well as to members of specific segments.

Practical implications

– The study helps marketers of pharmaceutical products improve their efforts when marketing to older consumers.

Originality/value

– Unlike previous studies that examine choices of pharmaceutical and cosmetic products by older consumers as a homogeneous group, the present study treats these consumers as a heterogeneous market and examines their motives for their choices.
Ms P: a case study in elder financial abuse (Ireland)
Authors: Allen-Devlin Jennifer , Freyne Aideen
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discuss the case study of an older woman who was subject to elder financial abuse by a home help in the Republic of Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

– The design of the research is a case study.

Findings

– It considers the indicators which alerted professionals to the concerns and the measures taken to protect the woman. The paper particularly highlights the co-operation of the large number of inter-agency multi-disciplinary professionals involved in resolving the case. The paper also considers the issue of capacity and the current legal background in the Republic of Ireland and internationally relevant to protecting older people from elder abuse.

Originality/value

– The paper has not identified any published case studies of elder financial abuse within the Republic of Ireland, despite hundreds of cases being reported annually. Case reports may be of interest to those working in the field as a means of describing successful management strategies, and may highlight practical areas of difficulty such as conflict or lack of communication between agencies. They may also serve to heighten awareness of abuse in general.
Follow the leader: how corporate social responsibility influences strategy and practice in the business community
Authors: Baddache Farid , Nicolai Isabelle
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Companies face increasing pressure from stakeholders to play a leading role in addressing a wide array of environmental, social, and governance issues. What are the relevant and responsible contributions that corporations are expected to provide in support of defining solutions to sustainability issues? This paper shows how corporate social responsibility (CSR) has become a negotiation process to help corporations manage uncertainties through collaborative work and alignment with stakeholders. From that angle, CSR is a process that generates standard and acceptable business practices.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper uses both an adductive as well as an interpretative approach of CSR and looks at CSR as a collaborative process that builds rules and norms.

Findings

– CSR is defined as a contractual process between stakeholders in order to drive decision making processes and agree on commitments between business and society. Interestingly, all studied examples depict the development of standard and acceptable business practices with very little involvement of stakeholders, which is not the understood way of driving changes to business strategy as defined by the CSR negotiation processes.

Practical implications

– A framework is presented linking CSR business practices research findings to empirical market isomorphism. The paper is of practical relevance for management practitioners. The limitations of recent research are also discussed.

Originality/value

– Our examples show that CSR is no more than the achievements of fragmented initiatives led by companies showing limited transparency toward external stakeholders. There is no overall coordination. The paper is original in its recommendation that public authorities play a strategic role showing clear direction, and establish themselves as a strategic platform enabling more engagement between stakeholders.
Bridging marketing's intentions and consumer perceptions
Authors: Kachersky Luke , Lerman Dawn
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The paper's aim is to explore consumer perceptions of marketing and test the malleability of those perceptions.

Design/methodology/approach

– Study 1 is exploratory in nature, and employs a free-response sentence completion to, “marketing is […]”. Study 2 employs an experimental design, testing whether the framing of communications about marketer performance (firm-oriented vs consumer-oriented) influences consumer perceptions of marketing.

Findings

– Based on free responses to “marketing is […]”, findings indicate that US consumers generally see marketing as something that is bad for them, but good for businesses. However, this asymmetry disappears when marketer performance is communicated with a consumer orientation.

Practical implications

– Marketers aim to create relationships with consumers based on value exchange, yet consumers do not see such value exchange. They see the value of marketing for business, but not for consumers themselves. By being more cognizant of how marketer performance is discussed, marketers can overcome such perceptions and build better relationships with consumers.

Originality/value

– Other research on attitude toward marketing focuses solely on people's feelings about marketing; here we capture an extra dimension – namely, consumer perceptions of who marketing serves. Further, extant research on consumer attitudes toward marketing tend to describe their current state; this paper does the same but also tests and offers a specific solution for improving perceptions of marketing.
The empowering potential of social media for key stakeholders in the repatriation process
Authors: L. O’Sullivan Sharon
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this conceptual paper is twofold. The first objective is to introduce a multi-stakeholder power perspective to the discourse on repatriate retention, which has, to date, treated issues of career agency without considering whether other stakeholders might be capable of responding constructively. The second objective of the paper is more prescriptive, conjecturing that social media, which has also been completely overlooked by the repatriation literature, has the potential to empower repatriation stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

– Following a review of the literature on repatriate turnover, this paper uses Hardy and Leiba-O’Sullivan's (1998) framework on empowerment to examine the nature and significance of powerlessness on the part of key stakeholders in the repatriation process – repatriates, HQ managers, and HQ HR professionals. It uses the same framework to investigate how social media might help to empower these stakeholders.

Findings

– The analysis finds that social media has the potential to empower repatriation stakeholders in four key ways: first, by triggering expatriates’ awareness of the need to proactively manage different aspects of their own impending repatriation; second, by providing access to supportive mentoring resources; third, by strengthening access to key HR and managerial decision-making arenas; and fourth, by enabling HQ managers and HR representatives to more judiciously direct potentially scarce organizational resources (including their own time) toward key repatriation supports.

Research limitations/implications

– Although this conceptual paper has no empirical data, it offers considerable value to the repatriation literature by introducing the topics of power and social media and explaining their relevance to repatriation (and indeed, to the field of international HRM).

Practical implications

– Repatriate turnover is problematic, both for repatriates who would have liked to remain with the organization that sent them on assignment, and for the organizations that would like to have retained (and utilized) repatriates’ global competencies. Thus, the main practical implication of this paper is that it offers an innovative contemporary solution (e.g. the use of social media) to this problem of repatriate turnover.

Originality/value

– The paper demonstrates that the topic of power has been completely neglected by the repatriation literature. Similarly, the topic of social media, has also been completely overlooked by the repatriation literature. This paper introduces these two topics to the repatriation literature, and, in so doing, broadens the understanding of constraints on repatriate agency as a means of repatriate retention, and offers innovative contemporary solutions (e.g. social media).
Dos and don’ts for involving citizens in the design and delivery of health and social care
Authors: Durose Catherine , Richardson Liz , Dickinson Helen , Williams Iestyn
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– Involving communities, citizens and service users in the design and delivery of public services has long been a key aim of government policy and arguably has it never been more important than within times of austerity. Yet, whilst acknowledging the importance of engagement, many health and social care organisations struggle with this in practice. This paper sets out some guiding principles for engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper draws on conversations at a series of events in 2013 which brought together researchers, those charged with delivering on government policy at the local level and active citizens, to debate and explore evidence and practice on how to involve and mobilise citizens in local decision making in a time of austerity. Learning is distilled from these events to provide a useful guide for working effectively with communities.

Findings

– As with any issue as complex as this, there is no magic bullet, quick fix, simple check-list or solve-all tool. Like doing anything worthwhile, working with communities is difficult, takes time and is at its core about building relationships. However, this does not mean that every attempt to design involvement processes needs to start entirely from scratch. There is a wealth and diversity of experience in designing and developing involvement mechanisms to draw upon.

Originality/value

– This paper will provide a helpful guide to those who are about to embark on a programme of engagement or who are presently involved in engagement activities with communities, citizens and service users.
Developing a knowledge map-driven framework for human resources strategy formulation
Authors: Akhavan Peyman , Pezeshkan Amir
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The main purpose of this paper is developing a framework for human resource strategy (HRS) planning based on knowledge maps in organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

– Considering literature review of HRS planning in one hand and knowledge mapping in another hand to develop a framework, and then deploying this framework in a company as case study.

Findings

– A knowledge map-driven framework for HRS formulation, which attempts to improve the process of HRS, is the main finding of this research. The results of the implementation of this model in a knowledge-based IT company may show its potential capability for deploying the model in similar corporations for better formulation of HRS.

Originality/value

– Linking of HRS with knowledge maps is quite new. This paper opens up new outlines in human resource management from a knowledge-based point of view. It may have value for experts who work and research in both areas especially in the field of human resources in knowledge-based organizations.
Can competencies at selection predict performance and development needs?
Authors: Sutton Anna , Watson Sara
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore the utility of an organisation-wide competency framework, linking competency ratings at selection to later development needs and job performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– Candidates’ scores at a management selection event were compared to their performance appraisal scores on the same competencies six to 12 months later (n=58). Scores on numeracy and profit and loss tests were also collected at the selection event and related to subsequent performance (n=207) and development needs.

Findings

– Competency ratings at performance appraisal were significantly lower than at selection interview. Correlations between ratings at interview and at performance appraisal were generally weak, though one (Understanding the Business) showed significant relationships with five of the seven performance appraisal competencies. In addition, competency ratings were related to employee turnover and managerial development needs.

Research limitations/implications

– Although competencies were clearly defined, inter-rater variations may have occurred which obscure the relationships. However, it is of interest that a single competency at selection (Understanding the Business) seems to have the greatest effect on performance, employment outcome and development needs.

Practical implications

– A competency framework that is embedded in both selection and performance ratings can provide the organisation with a clearer understanding of what determines managerial success, as well as informing better selection decisions. This study also raises the issue that performance ratings may be influenced more by a manager's ability to understand the business than by any other competencies.

Originality/value

– The use of a longitudinal design provides unique evidence of the relationship between competency ratings at selection and later performance, employment outcome and development needs.
OIS discounting and collateral management under new regulations
Authors: Prorokowski Lukasz
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to discuss the compliance with the regulatory-driven changes to collateral management and OIS discounting indicating operational and technological challenges faced by global investment banks. As it transpires, collateral management strategies need to be revised to find optimal solutions for the regulatory-driven landscape. Furthermore, set against the regulatory background, this report tests the reliability of OIS discounting and current trends in interbank lending, as well as emergent issues with CSAs.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper is based on an exploratory, qualitative approach to investigate the regulatory-driven collateral management landscape.

Findings

– The new regulatory framework was viewed by the surveyed banks as a factor influencing strategic planning and operations within collateral management. All surveyed banks pointed to the increased regulatory reporting. The interviewed banks highlighted inconsistencies in implementing the new regulatory framework across different countries. With reference to the positive factors influencing collateral management, the responses were mixed and depended on bank-specific opportunities spotted in the new collateral management landscape. According to the surveyed banks, complying with the new regulations has no pronounced impact on the liquidity. The financial scandals undermined the credibility of the LIBOR rate-setting processes and prompted changes to the regulatory framework in the banking sector. Against this backdrop, the interviewed banks considered various alternatives to LIBOR, often beyond the OIS rates. The departure from LIBOR entails operational challenges faced by the participating banks. Surprisingly, the factors that pushed the interviewed banks to OIS discounting were not linked to the regulatory change or reliability of OIS rates but general market trends that emerged in the aftermath of the global financial crisis.

Originality/value

– The paper contributes to the widespread, albeit complex, discussion on how banks adapt to the rapidly changing environment in collateral management and risk operations.
SEC gives nod to use of social media under Regulation FD – if done correctly
Authors: Zepralka Jennifer , Cross Meredith , White Thomas , Salhus Knute , Wolfman Jonathan
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze a recent US Securities and Exchange Commission Report of Investigation that concluded an investigation by the SEC Division of Enforcement into whether Netflix, Inc. and its chief executive officer violated Regulation FD through the use of the CEO's personal Facebook page to announce a company metric, and provide guidance with respect to the application of Regulation FD and the SEC's 2008 Guidance on the Use of Company Web Sites to disclosures made through social media channels.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper explains the background of the SEC's investigation of Netflix and its CEO, Regulation FD and the 2008 Guidance, applies the principles of Regulation FD and the 2008 Guidance to social media disclosures by public companies, and recommends compliance measures companies may wish to consider in implementing social media strategies. Key issues covered are whether a social media communication is made via a recognized channel of distribution and disseminated in a manner that makes it available to the securities marketplace in general, and whether a reasonable waiting period has elapsed to allow investors and the market to react to the communication.

Findings

– While the Report of Investigation reflects the SEC's recognition of the increased use and importance of social media channels, it does not fundamentally change the regulatory framework for analyzing Regulation FD compliance set forth in the SEC's 2008 Guidance on the Use of Company Web Sites.

Practical implications

– Companies contemplating social media use for Regulation FD purposes should apply the principles outlined in the 2008 Guidance, including informing investors of the channels they intend to use and the types of information that may be disclosed, and considering whether and when the information has been broadly disseminated, but should also consider the pros and cons of social media use from an investor relations perspective.

Originality/value

– The paper provides expert guidance from experienced financial services lawyers.
Strengths and weaknesses of Hong Kong's technology and innovation industry with reference to the extended open innovation model
Authors: Yan Xu , Chun Yu Calvin
Published: November 2013

Purpose

– This study aims to provide an analysis of Hong Kong's strengths and weaknesses in developing its technology and innovation industry.

Design/methodology/approach

– It briefly discussed the “extended open innovation” model on the basis of Chesbrough's “open innovation” model to explicitly highlight the elements associated with different stages throughout the whole spectrum of innovation processes.

Findings

– The model is then illustrated with Hong Kong's unique experience to gain insights for various stakeholders on how open innovation could be used beyond research and development activities and how Hong Kong could benefit from this paradigm shift.

Originality/value

– The extended open innovation model can be used as a framework to address the development of the technology and innovation industry.