bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lack of dcf1 leads to neuronal migration delay, axonal swollen and autism-related deficits
Authors: Feng Ruili , Chen Yanlu , Sun Yangyang , Luo Guanghong , Guo Jianjian , Liu Qiang , Wu Jie , Ju Xiangchun , Wen Tieqiao
Published: February 2020

Perturbed neuronal migration and abnormal axonogenesis have been shown to be implicated in the pathogenesis of autism spectrum disorder (ASD). However, the molecular mechanism remains unknown. Here we demonstrate that dendritic cell factor 1(DCF1) is involved in neuronal migration and axonogenesis. The deletion ofdcf1in mice delays the localization of callosal projection neurons, while dcf1 overexpression restores normal migration. Delayed neurons appear as axon swelling and axonal boutons loss, resulting in a permanent deficit in the callosal projections. Western blot analysis indicates that absence of dcf1 leads to the abnormal activation of ERK signal. Differential protein expression assay shows that PEBP1, a negative regulator of the ERK signal, is significant downregulation indcf1KO mice. Direct interaction between DCF1 and PEBP1 is confirmed by Co-immunoprecipitation test, thus indicating that DCF1 regulates the ERK signal in a PEBP1-dependent pattern. As a result of the neurodevelopmental migration disorder,dcf1deletion results in ASD-like behaviors in mice. This finding identifies a link between abnormal activated ERK signaling, delayed neuronal migration and autistic-like behaviors in humans.
Uncovering the core microbiome and distributions of palmerolide inSynoicum adareanumacross the Anvers Island archipelago, Antarctica
Authors: Murray Alison , Avalon Nicole , Bishop Lucas , Davenport Karen W. , Delage Erwan , Dichosa Armand E.K. , Eveillard Damien , Higham Mary L. , Kokkaliari Sofia , Lo Chien-Chi , Riesenfeld Christian S. , Young Ryan M. , Chain Patrick S.G. , Baker Bill J.
Published: February 2020

Polar marine ecosystems hold the potential for bioactive compound biodiscovery, based on their untapped macro- and microorganismal diversity. Characterization of polar benthic marine invertebrate-associated microbiomes is limited to few studies. This study was motivated by our interest in better understanding the microbiome structure and composition of the ascidian,Synoicum adareanum, in which the bioactive macrolide that has specific activity to melanoma, palmerolide A (PalA), was found. PalA bears structural resemblance to a combined nonribosomal peptide polyketide, that has similarities to microbially-produced macrolides. We conducted a spatial survey to assess both PalA levels and microbiome composition inS. adareanumin a region of the Antarctic Peninsula near Anvers Island (64° 46'S, 64° 03'W). PalA was ubiquitous and abundant across a collection of 21 ascidians (3 subsamples each) sampled from seven sites across the Anvers Island archipelago. The microbiome composition (V3-V4 16S rRNA gene sequence variants) of these 63 samples revealed a core suite of 21 bacteria, 20 of which were distinct from regional bacterioplankton. Co-occurrence analysis yielded several potentially interacting subsystems and, although the levels of PalA detected were not found to correlate with specific sequence variants, the core members appeared to occur in a preferred optimum and tolerance range of PalA levels. Taking these results together with an analysis of biosynthetic potential of related microbiome taxa indicates a core microbiome with substantial promise for natural product biosynthesis that likely interact with the host and with each other.
Medication Improves Age Disparities in Six-Month Treatment Retention for Opioid Use Disorder
Authors: Mintz Carrie M. , Presnall Ned J. , Sahrmann John M. , Borodovsky Jacob T. , Glaser Paul E.A. , Bierut Laura J. , Grucza Richard A.
Published: February 2020

Background and Aims

Adolescents with opioid use disorder (OUD) are an understudied and vulnerable population. We examined the association between age and six-month treatment retention, and whether any such association was moderated by medication treatment.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, we used an insurance database with OUD treatment claims from 2006-2016. We examined 261,356 OUD treatment episodes in three age groups: adolescents (ages 12-17), young adults (18-25) and older adults (26-64). We used logistic regression to estimate prevalence of six-month retention before and after stratification by treatment type (buprenorphine, naltrexone, or psychosocial services only). Insurance differences (commercial vs Medicaid) in medication treatment prevalence were also assessed.

Results

Adolescents were far less likely to be retained compared to adults (17.6%; 95% CI 16.5-18.7% for adolescents; 25.1%; 95% CI 24.7-25.4% for young adults; 33.3%; 95% CI 33.0-33.5% for older adults). This disparity was markedly reduced after adjusting for treatment type. For all ages, buprenorphine was more strongly associated with retention than naltrexone or psychosocial services. Adolescents who received buprenorphine were more than four times as likely to be retained in treatment (44.5%, 95% CI 40.6-49.0) compared to those who received psychosocial services (9.7%, 95% CI 8.8-10.8). Persons with commercial insurance were more likely to receive medication than those with Medicaid (73.3% vs 36.4%, χ2 =57,870.6, (p<.001).

Conclusions

Age disparities in six-month treatment retention are strongly related to age disparities in medication treatment. Results point to need for improved implementation of medication treatment for persons with OUD, regardless of age or insurance status.
Whole genome sequencing of ovarian granulosa cell tumors reveals tumor heterogeneity and a high-grade TP53-specific subgroup
Authors: Roze JF , Monroe GR , Kutzera J , Groeneweg JW , Stelloo E , Paijens ST , Nijman HW , van Meurs HS , van Lonkhuijzen LRCW , Piek JMJ , Lok CAR , Jonges GN , Witteveen PO , Verheijen RHM , van Haaften G , Zweemer RP
Published: February 2020

Adult granulosa cell tumors (AGCTs) harbor a somatic FOXL2 c.402C>G mutation in ∼95% of cases and are mainly surgically removed due to limited systemic treatment effect. In this study, potentially targetable genomic alterations in AGCTs were investigated by whole genome sequencing on 46 tumor samples and matched normal DNA. Copy number variant (CNV) analysis confirmed gain of chromosome 12 and 14, and loss of 22. Pathogenic TP53 mutations were identified in three patients with highest tumor mutational burden and mitotic activity, defining a high-grade AGCT subgroup. Within-patient tumor comparisons showed 29-80% unique somatic mutations per sample, suggesting tumor heterogeneity. A higher mutational burden was found in recurrent tumors, as compared to primary AGCTs. FOXL2-wildtype AGCTs harbored DICER1, TERT(C228T) and TP53 mutations and similar CNV profiles as FOXL2-mutant tumors. Our study confirms that absence of the FOXL2 c.402C>G mutation does not exclude AGCT diagnosis. The lack of overlapping variants in targetable cancer genes indicates the need for personalized treatment for AGCT patients.
Capuchin monkey rituals: an interdisciplinary study of form and function
Authors: Perry S. , Smolla M.
Published: February 2020

Many white-faced capuchin monkey dyads in Lomas Barbudal, Costa Rica, practice idiosyncratic interaction sequences that are not part of the species-typical behavioural repertoire. These interactions often include uncomfortable or risky elements. These interactions exhibit the following characteristics commonly featured in definitions of rituals in humans: (1) they involve an unusual intensity of focus on the partner, (2) the behaviours have no immediate utilitarian purpose, (3) they sometimes involve “sacred objects”, (4) the distribution of these behaviours suggests that they are invented and spread via social learning, and (5) many behaviours in these rituals are repurposed from other behavioural domains (e.g. extractive foraging). However, in contrast to some definitions of ritual, capuchin rituals are not overly rigid in their form, nor do the sequences have specific opening and closing actions. In our 9,260 hours of observation, ritual performance rate was uncorrelated with amount of time dyads spent in proximity but is (modestly) associated with higher relationship quality and rate of coalition formation across dyads. Our results suggest that capuchin rituals serve a bond-testing rather than a bond-strengthening function. Ritual interactions are exclusively dyadic, and between-dyad consistency in form is low, casting doubt on the alternative hypothesis that they enhance group-wide solidarity.
Elevated blood pressure in high-fat diet-exposed low birthweight rat offspring is most likely caused by elevated glucocorticoid levels
Authors: Nemoto Takahiro , Nakakura Takashi , Kakinuma Yoshihiko
Published: February 2020

Being delivered as a low birthweight (LBW) infant is a risk factor for elevated blood pressure and future problems with cardiovascular and cerebellar diseases. Premature babies have been reported to possess a lower number of nephrons, but the mechanisms by which blood pressure is elevated in full-term LBW infants remain unclear. We generated a fetal low-carbohydrate and calorie-restricted model rat, and some individuals showed postnatal growth failure caused by increased miR-322 expression in the liver and decreased growth hormone receptor expression. Using this model, we examined how a high-fat diet-induced mismatch between prenatal and postnatal environments could elevate blood pressure after growth. Although LBW rats fed standard chow had slightly higher blood pressure than control rats, their blood pressure was significantly higher than controls when exposed to a high-fat diet. Observation of glomeruli subjected to PAM staining showed no difference in number or size. Aortic and cardiac angiotensin II receptor expression was altered with compensatory responses. Blood aldosterone levels were not different between control and LBW rats, but blood corticosterone levels were significantly higher in the latter with high-fat diet exposure. Administration of metyrapone, a steroid synthesis inhibitor, reduced blood pressure to levels comparable to controls. We showed that high-fat diet exposure causes impairment of the pituitary glucocorticoid feedback via miR-449a. These results clarify that LBW rats have increased blood pressure due to high glucocorticoid levels when they are exposed to a high-fat diet. These findings suggest a new therapeutic target for hypertension of LBW individuals.
DNA-dependent macromolecular condensation drives self-assembly of the meiotic DNA break machinery
Authors: Bouuaert Corentin Claeys , Pu Stephen , Wang Juncheng , Patel Dinshaw J. , Keeney Scott
Published: February 2020

Formation of meiotic DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) by Spo11 is tightly regulated and tied to chromosome structure, but the higher-order assemblies that execute and control DNA breakage are poorly understood. We address this question through molecular characterization ofSaccharomyces cerevisiaeRMM proteins (Rec114, Mei4 and Mer2)—essential, conserved components of the DSB machinery. Each subcomplex of Rec114–Mei4 (2:1 heterotrimer) or Mer2 (homotetrameric coiled coil) is monodisperse in solution, but they independently condense with DNA into dynamic, reversible nucleoprotein clusters that share properties with phase-separated systems. Multivalent interactions drive condensation, which correlates with DSB formationin vivo. Condensates fuse into mixed Rec114–Mei4–Mer2 clusters that further recruit Spo11 complexes. Our data show how the DSB machinery self-assembles on chromosome axes to create centers of DSB activity. We propose that multilayered control of Spo11 arises from recruitment of regulatory components and modulation of biophysical properties of the condensates.
Development and Evaluation of A CRISPR-based Diagnostic For 2019-novel Coronavirus
Authors: Hou Tieying , Zeng Weiqi , Yang Minling , Chen Wenjing , Ren Lili , Ai Jingwen , Wu Ji , Liao Yalong , Gou Xuejing , Li Yongjun , Wang Xiaorui , Su Hang , Gu Bing , Wang Jianwei , Xu Teng
Published: February 2020

Background

The recent outbreak of infections by the 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV), the third zoonotic CoV has raised great public health concern. The demand for rapid and accurate diagnosis of this novel pathogen brought significant clinical and technological challenges. Currently, metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) and reverse-transcription PCR (RT-PCR) are the most widely used molecular diagnostics for 2019-nCoV.

Methods

2019-nCoV infections were confirmed in 52 specimens by mNGS. Genomic information was analyzed and used for the design and development of an isothermal, CRISPR-based diagnostic for the novel virus. The diagnostic performance of CRISPR-nCoV was assessed and also compared across three technology platforms (mNGS, RT-PCR and CRISPR)

Results

2019-nCoVs sequenced in our study were conserved with the Wuhan strain, and shared certain genetic similarity withSARS-CoV. A high degree of variation in the level of viral RNA was observed in clinical specimens. CRISPR-nCoV demonstrated a near single-copy sensitivity and great clinical sensitivity with a shorter turn-around time than RT-PCR.

Conclusion

CRISPR-nCoV presents as a promising diagnostic option for the emerging pathogen.
Thermodynamic and kinetic design principles for protein aggregation inhibitors
Authors: Michaels Thomas C. T. , Šarić Andela , Meisl Georg , Heller Gabriella T. , Curk Samo , Arosio Paolo , Linse Sara , Dobson Christopher M. , Vendruscolo Michele , Knowles Tuomas P. J.
Published: February 2020

Understanding the mechanism of action of compounds capable of inhibiting protein aggregation is critical to the development of potential ther-apeutics against protein misfolding diseases. A fundamental challenge for progress is the range of possible target species and the disparate timescales involved, since the aggregating proteins are simultaneously the reactants, products, intermediates and catalysts of the reaction. It is a complex problem, therefore, to choose the states of the aggregating proteins that should be bound by the compounds to achieve the most potent inhibition. We present here a comprehensive kinetic theory of protein aggregation inhibition which reveals the fundamental thermodynamic and kinetic signatures characterising effective inhibitors by identifying quantitative relationships between the aggregation and binding rate constants. These results provide general physical laws to guide the design and optimisation of protein aggregation inhibitors.
HIV-1 Vpr antagonizes innate immune activation by targeting karyopherin-mediated NF-κB/IRF3 nuclear transport
Authors: Khan Hataf , Sumner Rebecca P. , Rasaiyaah Jane , Tan Choon Ping , Rodriguez-Plata Maria Teresa , van Tulleken Chris , Fink Douglas , Zuliani-Alvarez Lorena , Thorne Lucy , Stirling David , Milne Richard S. B. , Towers Greg J.
Published: February 2020

HIV-1 must replicate in cells that are equipped to defend themselves from infection through intracellular innate immune systems. HIV-1 evades innate immune sensing through encapsidated DNA synthesis and encodes accessory genes that antagonize specific antiviral effectors. Here we show that both particle associated, and expressed HIV-1 Vpr, antagonize the stimulatory effect of a variety of pathogen associated molecular patterns by inhibiting IRF3 and NF-κB nuclear transport. Phosphorylation of IRF3 at S396, but not S386, was also inhibited. We propose that, rather than promoting HIV-1 nuclear import, Vpr interacts with karyopherins to disturb their import of IRF3 and NF-κB to promote replication in macrophages. Concordantly, we demonstrate Vpr dependent rescue of HIV-1 replication in human macrophages from inhibition by cGAMP, the product of activated cGAS. We propose a model that unifies Vpr manipulation of nuclear import and inhibition of innate immune activation to promote HIV-1 replication and transmission.
A cross-level model of legitimacy-driven institutional change
Authors: Guo Yan , Chen Liran , Fang Shih-Chieh , Yang Chen-Wei
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a cross-level model of legitimacy-driven institutional change in a Chinese management context; in other words, changes that start out as legitimacy gaining processes by green enterprises but result in a shift in field-level market logic.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study using a historical inquiry approach and in-depth interviews has been used to qualitatively analyze the authors’ case in the Chinese photovoltaic industry.

Findings

The study proposes a cross-level explanation of institutional change by demonstrating how institutional change can create market forces at a field level that seemingly originate from an increase in the number of legitimated enterprises. This may negatively influence enterprises’ ongoing legitimacy gaining process for their survival at the organizational level in an institutional environment.

Research limitations/implications

The theoretical perspective helps improve descriptions of institutional change and develop a much-needed multi-level understanding of green enterprises in the highly institutionalized green industry. However, this case study may raise the concern of generalizability; thus, an additional survey is necessary.

Practical implications

As organizational field-level market forces are endorsed and transformed in the legitimacy gaining activities of green enterprises, a green enterprise manager should be aware of its negative impact on their legitimacy gaining process and ultimate survival.

Originality/value

The authors’ model proposes a cross-level explanation of institutional change by demonstrating how institutional change can create market forces at a field level that seemingly originate from an increase in the number of legitimated enterprises. Consequently, this may negatively influence the enterprises’ legitimacy gaining process.
Interagency collaboration for graduate employment opportunities in Uganda
Authors: Ntale Peter , Ssempebwa Jude , Musisi Badiru , Ngoma Muhammed , Genza Gyaviira Musoke , Kimoga Joseph , Mugimu Christopher Byalusaago , Ntayi Joseph Mpeera , Balunywa Wasswa
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify gaps in the structure of organizations that hinder collaboration of organizations involved in the creation of graduate employment opportunities in Uganda.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from staff and leaders of 14 organizations that were purposely selected to represent government, private, and civil society organizations. These organizations were selected based on their mandates, which touch on the employability of university graduates in the country in very direct ways. This was a cross-sectional survey design—based on a self-administered questionnaire, key informant interviews, and documentary analysis.

Findings

Organizations were found to have “Tell”/directive decision-making, high power distance between employees, and jobs were not coded in a way that gives employees freedoms to interact and build collaborative relationships. Finally, rules and regulations were very restrictive, disorienting employee's abilities to collaborate.

Research limitations/implication

This research concentrated on the gaps that exist in the structure of organizations from which the results point to inadequate relational, interactional, inclusive, and democratic space among different stakeholders. It would be useful for future research to examine the extent to which the structure of organizations not only impacts collaboration but also measures the level to which it affects organizational performance.

Practical implications

The knowledge economy of the twenty-first century demands for collaborative engagements with different stakeholders if they are to survive the competitive business environment. Collaborative engagement helps in the sharing of knowledge, expertise, and resources, development of more coherent services, facilitation of innovation and evaluation, avoiding duplication of work, and minimizing conflicts and competition while creating synergy among partners.

Originality/value

Unlike previous studies, which have examined employability of graduates from a supply side perspective, this study investigates organizations from both the supply and demand perspectives and identifies synergy that is as a result of bringing organizations to work together.
Patients’ rights and professional conduct issues in hospitals’ codes of ethics
Authors: Saygili Ebru , Ozturkoglu Yucel
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the presence of ethical standards in the content of international hospitals codes of ethics disclosed in their websites.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the focus is on developing an integrated framework of universal values and hospital responsibilities for the content of hospitals’ codes of ethics documents. A list of key ethical issues was determined through an examination of the American Medical Association Code of Medical Ethics (2016), the WAMA (2017), International Code of Medical Ethics and relevant peer-reviewed journal articles (Finseschi, 1997; Vergallo, 2016; Suhonen et al., 2011; Reader et al., 2014). Based on the detailed literature review, 48 concepts, which were evenly, classified under two groups; professional conduct issues and patients’ rights. In the second stage, the issues were ranked related to professional conduct and patients’ rights from most to least frequent for the proposed conceptual framework, using World Global Hospitals codes of ethics.

Findings

It was found that only 62% of the top 100 hospitals have an ethics code report in their websites. The findings of the study have significant theoretical and practical implications. First, most of the hospitals’ ethical codes extensively emphasize professional conduct and patients’ rights, whereas they differ in what they include or exclude from their codes and the wording used. The number and frequency of the professional conduct issues is higher than patients’ rights. Emerging ethical issues, such as physicians’ and patients’ freedom of choice, sperm donation and artificial reproduction, were not widely mentioned, whereas abortion, euthanasia, human rights and transplantation issues were disregarded entirely.

Practical implications

This study provides a benchmark for hospitals to assess their codes against other hospitals’ codes in terms of the specific items they address.

Social implications

The results of this study provide a benchmark for evaluating and developing ethical codes for hospitals in light of the international health standards and norms.

Originality/value

To the best of the knowledge, no previous study has theoretically or practically analyzed hospitals’ codes of ethics.
Modelling of readiness factors for the implementation of Lean Six Sigma in healthcare organizations
Authors: Vaishnavi V. , Suresh M.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to identify, analyze and categorize the major readiness factors for implementing Lean Six Sigma (LSS) in health-care organizations using total interpretive structural modelling technique. The readiness factors are identified would help the managers to recognize the areas that lack and provide importance to the successful implementation of LSS in those areas. The paper further intends to understand the hierarchical interrelationships among the readiness factors identified using dependence and driving power.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 16 readiness factors are identified from the literature review and expert opinions are collected from hospitals. The scheduled interview is conducted based on a questionnaire survey in hospitals in the Indian context to identify the relevance of the relations among the readiness factors. The expert opinions are used in the initial reachability matrix and interpretative interaction matrix. Matrix impact cross multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis uses dependence and driving power to understand the hierarchical relationship among the readiness factors identified.

Findings

The result indicates that customer-oriented and goal management cultures are the key readiness factors for LSS. The execution technique and training are given according to the current demand of customers and goal change of organization. The manager needs to concentrate more on readiness factors to formulate the execution process of LSS for continuous improvement of the health-care organization. The readiness level helps the manager to identify the target area for LSS execution.

Research limitations/implications

This research focuses mainly on readiness factors for the implementation of LSS in the health-care industry.

Practical implications

This study would be useful for researchers and practitioners to understand the readiness factors before starting the implementation process of LSS.

Originality/value

Many research studies are being done on the success and failure rate of implementation of factors. The present study identifies the readiness factors related to LSS, especially for the health-care industry.
Evaluating determinants of employees' pro-environmental behavioral intentions
Authors: Yuriev Alexander , Boiral Olivier , Guillaumie Laurence
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The aim of this study was to identify and quantitatively assess the importance of psychosocial and organizational factors that influence employees' intentions to engage in pro-environmental behaviors at the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire based on the theory of planned behavior was completed by 318 employees. To validate three suggested hypotheses, a series of path analysis models were constructed using AMOS software.

Findings

The theory of planned behavior explained 79 percent and 37.7 percent of variance in predicting intentions of employees to travel to work using alternative transportation and to make eco-suggestions directed toward the workplace, respectively. While organizational barriers did not play a significant role in predicting intentions to use alternative transportation, some organizational obstacles (opinion of colleagues, required paperwork) influenced workers' intention to make eco-suggestions.

Originality/value

This is one of the first articles in the field of pro-environmental workplace behaviors in which the theory of planned behavior is implemented in a systematic manner (qualitative exploration of beliefs followed by their quantitative evaluation). This article contributes to the existing literature by shedding light on the disproportionate influence of organizational and psychosocial factors on pro-environmental workplace behaviors.
Boundary buffering: limiting interference and information leakage in design teams
Authors: Wu Xiaosong (Jason) , Huang Wei (Wayne) , Jiang James , Klein Gary , Liu Shan
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Two challenges faced by automotive component design projects within contracted design agencies are (1) specification changes requested by the manufacturers and (2) product information or core technology knowledge leakage to external actors. We examine the effects of targeted boundary activities that address these challenges under the contingencies of environmental uncertainty and project complexity.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on Boundary management theory, a bidirectional model of boundary buffering was conceptualized in the context of design agency teams developing automotive components. A survey is derived from the proposed model. Regression analysis is performed using empirical data from 234 auto component design projects in Chinese design agencies.

Findings

Boundary buffering activities that strengthen outside-in boundaries and inside-out boundaries directly improve the final design quality. Further, the magnitude of effect for outside-in buffering on design quality is enhanced under environmental uncertainty, while the impact of inside-out buffering on design quality is enhanced under project complexity.

Research limitations/implications

Boundary activities should consider differences in boundary targets, directional flow of information, and context of scope.

Practical implications

Automotive component design agents should attend to both outside-in and inside-out boundary buffering, especially under conditions of environmental uncertainty or project complexity.

Originality/value

The proposed bidirectional view on boundary buffering adds perspective to team boundary management theory. Specific contingencies include common risk elements of project complexity and environmental uncertainty not typically associated with the need for buffering activities.
Implementation of performance management in an environment of conflicting management cultures
Authors: Christopher Joe
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to examine how performance management (PM) is adopted in the public university sector and the problems it faces in an environment of conflicting management cultures.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws on institutional logics as a theoretical framework and inductive qualitative interviews as a research approach.

Findings

The results reveal that the conflicting values instilled in key players aligned with the different cultures have resulted in PM assuming a hybrid form, rather than the corporate form. Three identified problematic factors further demonstrate that the level of hybridity varies across the sector. The paper alludes to a theory-practice gap as a result of the findings and the concept of negative hybridity and its risk to effective governance aligned with the corporate approach.

Research limitations/implications

The results are limited to Australian public universities. In addition, interviews were conducted with a specific set of university management staff. A different perspective on the findings may have been generated with a different set of management or operational staff.

Practical implications

The results provide policymakers and university management with information on the theory practice gap and the problematic factors contributing to it. It also informs policymakers to the risks associated with negative hybridity.

Originality/value

The results reveal the existence of a theory–practice gap because of a number of common problematic factors in the adoption of a corporate-oriented PM system in Australian public universities. The results highlight the need for further studies to establish the extent to which the current hybrid PM system deviates from the expected corporate-oriented PM system, and whether this poses a risk to effective governance aligned with the corporate approach.
Assessment of cultural fit between buyers and suppliers
Authors: Patyal Vishal Singh , Ambekar Sudhir , Prakash Anand , Roy Dipayan , Hiray Amit
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The present study proposes a model to examine the cultural fit between buyers and suppliers for establishing synergies in their processes and practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study assessed buyers' culture through the Competing Values Framework and used Quality Management Practices Model as a proxy to assess suppliers' culture. The data from 262 paired respondents were used for this analysis. This survey was administered in India, using linear snowball-sampling technique. This study applied 3SLS regression for each culture group separately.

Findings

This study has instituted the cultural fit between the buyers' and suppliers' culture. It is observed that for getting synergies between cultures, buyers need to choose a set of suppliers which have similar cultural traits.

Research limitations/implications

This study presents empirical findings based on data from Indian manufacturing firms. These findings need testing in other developing countries and other sectors.

Practical implications

Organizations can formulate right policies for supplier selection based on the cultural fit between buyers and suppliers.

Originality/value

With increasing role of suppliers in the value chain, organizations around the world need to work with the right suppliers for gaining a sustainable competitive advantage. Selection of the right suppliers depends on the cultural fit between buyers and suppliers that, in turn, depends on the selection of the right suppliers based on the prevailing culture.
Volunteering and self-perceived individual health
Authors: Nappo Nunzia , Fiorillo Damiano
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The paper studies the simultaneous effect of formal and informal volunteering on self-perceived individual health across nine European countries while controlling, among other things, for socioeconomic characteristics and social and cultural participation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs the 2006 wave of the EU-SILC dataset for estimating recursive trivariate probit models using instrumental variables.

Findings

The paper finds that although formal volunteering and informal volunteering are correlated with each other, they have different impacts on health. Formal volunteering is never correlated with higher self-perceived individual health except in the Netherlands. In contrast, informal volunteering is related to lower self-perceived individual health in Austria, Finland, France, the Netherlands, Spain, and Italy.

Research limitations/implications

The first limitation concerns the absence of other measures of volunteering, such as volunteering hours that are not available in the employed dataset. The second limitation is that the dataset collection on social and cultural variables in EU-SILC is cross-sectional while the optimal dataset should be a panel data. The third limitation is that instrumental variables are observed in the same year of declaring self-perceived individual health while the optimal timing would be at least one year before.

Practical implications

Findings of the paper show that formal volunteering has no effect on self-perceived individual health while informal volunteering has negative consequences.

Social implications

Volunteering is performed because of an individual decision and could be considered a consequence of how social responsibilities are distributed within countries. Our results show that informal volunteering has a negative effect on health; this is likely to depend on how people manage stress coming from performing this altruistic activity. It is likely that a more cautious distribution of social responsibilities could prevent the negative effects of informal volunteering on health.

Originality/value

The originality of the present paper is in simultaneously examining the impact of formal and informal volunteering on self-perceived individual health. Furthermore, most of the existing studies on formal volunteering and health focus on a single country; this paper compares nine European countries characterized by different social, cultural, economic, and institutional features. Finally, the paper addresses the issue of reverse causation.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at:https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-11-2017-0548
Debt risk analysis of non-financial corporates using two-tier networks
Authors: Cao Yuan , Wu Desheng , Li Lei
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Non-financial corporate debt is one of the important sources of systematic risk in the real economy. Assessing a measure of systematic risk in corporation debt is currently a key challenge. In this regard, we propose a two-tier risk contagion networks model.

Design/methodology/approach

Assessing a measure of systematic risk in corporation debt is currently a key challenge. In this regard, we propose a two-tier risk contagion networks model based on four dimensions: concept definition, data structure, risk contagion network construction, and risk measurement indicators construction. We take the Jiangsu bond issuer guarantee network as a sample area.

Findings

Taking the Jiangsu bond issuer guarantee network as a sample area, we find that there is a strong correlation between the debts of non-financial corporation in China, and it is easy to become a potential regional systematic risk source. In addition, our empirical research also reveals that external risk exposure and node degree of network are two key indicators when identifying key risk-contagion enterprises.

Originality/value

The main contributions of this study are two-fold. First, this article proposes a two-tier risk contagion networks model to measure systematic risk in non-financial corporation. Second, this article describes the structure of the corporate risk contagion network.
The impacts of the privacy policy on individual trust in health information exchanges (HIEs)
Authors: Esmaeilzadeh Pouyan
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Health information exchange (HIE) initiatives utilize sharing mechanisms through which health information is mostly transmitted without a patient's close supervision; thus, patient trust in the HIE is the core in this setting. Existing technology acceptance theories mainly consider cognitive beliefs resulting in adoption behavior. The study argues that existing theories should be expanded to cover not only cognitive beliefs but also the emotion provoked by the sharing nature of the technology. Based on the theory of reasoned action, the technology adoption literature, and the trust literature, we theoretically explain and empirically test the impact of perceived transparency of privacy policy on cognitive trust and emotional trust in HIEs. Moreover, the study analyzes the effects of cognitive trust and emotional trust on the intention to opt in to HIEs and willingness to disclose health information.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was conducted using data from individuals who were aware of HIEs through experience with at least one provider participating in an HIE network. Data were collected from a wide range of adult population groups in the United States.

Findings

The structural equation modeling analysis results provide empirical support for the proposed model. The model highlights the strategic role of the perceived transparency of the privacy policy in building trust in HIEs. When patients know more about HIE security measures, sharing procedures, and privacy terms, they feel more in control, more assured, and less at risk. The results also show that patient trust in HIEs may take the forms of intention to opt in to an HIE and willingness to disclose health information exchanged through HIE networks.

Originality/value

The findings of this study should be of interest to both academics and practitioners. The research highlights the importance of developing and using a transparent privacy policy in the diffusion of HIEs. The findings provide a deep understanding of dimensions of HIE privacy policy that should be addressed by health-care organizations to exchange personal health information in a secure and private manner.
A new perspective on online malicious comments: effects of attention and neutralization
Authors: Kim Han-Min , Bock Gee-Woo , Kim Hyung Su
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Today, online malicious comments are serious issues. They can cause psychological distress and suicide of victims. Although prior studies have focused on the role of anonymity as a major factor in making these comments, results of these studies have been inconsistent. On the other hand, the need for attention from others can provide an alternative explanation for such malicious comments. However, this perspective has been rarely studied. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate effects of anonymity and need for attention on posting malicious comments online and compare these two factors, resolving dark sides of online interaction.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained 327 questionnaires of Facebook users through a survey and analyzed the research model using partial least squares (PLS) regression.

Findings

Results of this study revealed that the need for attention affected malicious comments through partial mediation of neutralization. On the other hand, anonymity did not significantly affect malicious comments.

Research limitations/implications

This study has the following academic implications. First, we empirically examined the critical influence of need for attention on making malicious comments online based on the impression management theory. Second, this study revealed that the influence of need for attention on making malicious comments was partially mediated by neutralization. Third, this study may offer an explanation for contradicting findings on the role of anonymity in the phenomenon of posting malicious comments online.

Practical implications

Practical implications of this study are as follows. First, SNS platforms can limit activities of persons who post malicious comments frequently. Second, this study suggests that a notice is needed to inform the seriousness and harmful consequences of malicious comments. Third, Facebook practitioners should be aware that low anonymity may not reduce malicious comments.

Originality/value

This study quantitatively examined the effect of need for attention on malicious comments based on the impression management theory. It provides a fact that individuals who want to attract attention from others would write malicious comments through neutralization.
Intrinsic and extrinsic attributes that drive Muslim consumer purchase behavior
Authors: Bukhari Syed Faheem Hasan , Woodside Frances M. , Hassan Rumman , Ali Omar Massoud Salim Hassan , Hussain Saima , Waqas Rabail
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the key attributes that drive Muslim consumer purchase behavior in the context of imported Western food in Pakistan.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth, semi-structured interviews were used as a data collection tool. In this research, the in-depth interview data were analysed by using the manual content analysis (MCA) technique. Moreover, Leximancer software was used to reanalyse the data to enhance the trustworthiness of the MCA results. A total sample of 43 Muslim consumers from three metropolitan cities in Pakistan participated in the research. The sample comprises professionals, housewives and both college and university students.

Findings

Muslim consumers in Pakistan look at both the intrinsic and extrinsic attributes when purchasing imported Western food. The ruling factors explored were product taste, ingredients, freshness, hygiene, brand name and overall product quality. However, product packaging and labeling also play a significant role. Participants were of the view that imported Western food provides a better, unique consumption experience and an opportunity to choose from a wide variety of food options. Interestingly, interview findings reveal that Western food product attributes surpass the Islamic concept of moderate spending, thus convincing Muslim consumers to engage in the consumption of imported Western food.

Social implications

The presence of imported Western food may improve quality of life by having more opportunities and healthier options for the nation. If the Western food products are stamped Halal or made with Halal ingredients the product has a fair chance of adoption and penetration in the society. Further, it may result in overall health improvements within the society, which is already a major concern in the Pakistani consumer market. Also, food products coming from the Western world induces mindfulness; people are more aware about innovative and useful ingredients that can satisfy their taste buds.

Originality/value

This paper found that Pakistani Muslim consumers are not really concerned about the Islamic concept of moderate spending, and thus, established that Pakistani Muslim consumers are more concerned about product value rather than their Islamic teaching of moderate spending. From a population, with 97 per cent Muslim majority, product packaging and labeling were found to be a dominant and deciding factor, which, in itself, is an interesting finding. Further, established Western brand names help Muslim consumers to recognize products and plays a vital role in their purchase decisions. However, within product labeling, the element of halal ingredients was found to be a deciding factor, but not a leading factor, in purchase decisions.
Development of functional chicken patties with incorporation of mango peel powder as fat replacer
Authors: Chappalwar Anita M. , Pathak Vikas , Goswami Meena , Verma Arun Kumar
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop functional chicken patties with incorporation of mango peel powder as a fat replacer.

Design/methodology/approach

Low-fat chicken patties were developed by incorporating mango peel powder as fat replacer at 1.0, 2.0 and 3.0% level to replace 50% vegetable oil in the formulation. The product was evaluated for various physico-chemical properties and sensory attributes.

Findings

There was a significant difference (p < 0.05) between control and treatments for all physico-chemical properties except product pH and protein content. The emulsion pH, emulsion stability, water activity, fat and cholesterol content of mango peel treated chicken patties were significantly (p < 0.01) lower, however, cooking yield, moisture content, fat retention and moisture retention values were significantly (p < 0.01) higher than control. All mineral content decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in treatments except potassium and phosphorous content. Incorporation of mango peel powder had a significant (p < 0.05) effect on textural and colour parameters. Sensory scores decreased significantly (p < 0.05) in treatments, however, the product was well acceptable up to 2% of mango peel powder incorporation.

Originality/value

Fat has an important role in comminuted meat products, its reduction results in rubbery and dry textured products and poses difficulties in terms of flavour and texture. Meat products with high-fat content may exert a great harmful effect on human health such as obesity and high blood cholesterol level. Hence, there is a need for using suitable ingredient, which is able to replace fat without affecting quality. Mango peel may be used as suitable fat replacer at 2% to replace 50% added vegetable fat without affecting quality parameters.
From professional bureaucracy to competitive bureaucracy – redefining universities’ organization principles, performance measurement criteria, and reason for being
Authors: Kallio Tomi J. , Kallio Kirsi-Mari , Blomberg Annika
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This purpose of this study is to understand how the spread of audit culture and the related public sector reforms have affected Finnish universities’ organization principles, performance measurement (PM) criteria and ultimately their reason for being.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying extensive qualitative data by combining interview data with document materials, this study takes a longitudinal perspective toward the changing Finnish higher education field.

Findings

The analysis suggests the reforms have altered universities’ administrative structures, planning and control systems, coordination mechanisms and the role of staff units, as well as the allocation of power and thus challenged their reason for being. Power has become concentrated into the hands of formal managers, while operational core professionals have been distanced from decision making. Efficiency in terms of financial and performance indicators has become a coordinating principle of university organizations, and PM practices are used to steer the work of professionals. Because of the reforms, universities have moved away from the ideal type of professional bureaucracy and begun resembling the new, emerging ideal type of competitive bureaucracy.

Originality/value

This study builds on rich, real-life, longitudinal empirical material and details a chronological description of the changes in Finland’s university sector. Moreover, it illustrates how the spread of audit culture and the related legislative changes have transformed the ideal type of university organization and challenged universities’ reason for being. These changes entail significant consequences regarding universities as organizations and their role in society.