bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early induction of antibacterial activities distinguishes response of mice to infection with non-permissive from response to permissiveSalmonella
Authors: Yadav Jitender , Qadri Ayub
Published: December 2020

Salmonella entericaserovar Typhi (S. Typhi), the causative agent of typhoid in humans, shares very high homology with closely related serovar,S. Typhimurium. Yet, unlikeS. Typhimurium,S. Typhi does not establish infection in mice, the reasons for which are not well understood. Here, we present evidence that unlikeS. Typhimurium,S. Typhi brings about induction of extracellular and intracellular antibacterial activities in mice. Cell-free peritoneal fluids fromS. Typhi but notS. Typhimurium-infected mice inhibited replication ofSalmonella ex vivo. The production of this activity was reduced in presence of serine protease inhibitor, phenylmethylsulfonlyl fluoride (PMSF). PMSF also inhibited generation of antibacterial activity released fromin vitro S. Typhi - infected peritoneal macrophages in a cell death – dependent manner. Intracellularly, infection withS. Typhiin vitroas well asin vivoresulted in increased mRNA levels of iron-regulating molecules, ferroportin and lipocalin. These results suggest that induction of antibacterial molecules early on in mice in response toS. Typhi may prevent establishment of infection with thisSalmonellaserovar.
Sequence determinants of the aggregation of proteins within condensates generated by liquid-liquid phase separation
Authors: Vendruscolo Michele , Fuxreiter Monika
Published: December 2020

The transition between the native and amyloid states of proteins can proceed via a deposition pathway via oligomeric intermediates or via a condensation pathway via liquid droplet intermediates generated through liquid-liquid phase separation. Here we investigate the sequence determinants of aggregation from within the droplet state based on generic interactions. We describe a model in which these sequence determinants can be captured by three features, the droplet-promoting propensity, the aggregation-promoting propensity and the binding mode entropy. By using this approach, we propose a formula to identify aggregation-promoting mutations in droplet-forming proteins. This analysis provides insights into the amino acid code for the conversion of proteins between liquid-like and solid-like condensates.
Different correlation patterns between EEG and memory after E/I balance adjustment in normal middle-aged mice and AD model mice
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Li Liane , Duan Mengsi , Sun Huaying , Yi Hu , Fu Yu
Published: December 2020

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is correlated with brain atrophy, neuronal loss, neurotransmitter imbalance, and cognitive decline, which also occur in normal aging. Thus, comparing the differences between normal aging and AD is of interest in order to test the accelerated aging hypothesis of AD. An imbalance between excitatory/inhibitory (E/I) neurotransmission, especially in gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) inhibition dysfunction, is involved in both AD and normal aging. In the present study, we performed correlation analyses between electroencephalograms (EEGs) and memory in middle-aged (∼12 months old) wild-type mice (WT) and AD model mice (APP/PS1) after E/I balance adjustment via GABAAagonist muscimol and antagonist bicuculline administration (0.1 mg/kg intraperitoneally). Specifically, EEGs of the hippocampus and prefrontal cortex were recorded during Y-maze performance. Overall, WT and AD mice showed different correlation patterns between EEG activity and behavioral memory performance. Significant correlations were observed in EEG activity across a wider range of frequency bands (2–100 Hz, except 4–8 Hz) in WT mice, but were mainly observed in low frequency bands (delta-theta, 2–8 Hz) in AD mice. In addition, muscimol and bicuculline treatment contributed to better brain function in AD mice; in contrast, bicuculline administration resulted in poorer brain function in WT mice. Thus, our study suggests that AD shows a distinct pattern of disrupted brain function, rather than accelerated aging. Importantly, this work reveals new insights into future AD treatment by influencing low-frequency EEG activity through E/I balance adjustment, thereby aiding cognitive recovery.
rt-me-fMRI: A task and resting state dataset for real-time, multi-echo fMRI methods development and validation
Authors: Heunis Stephan , Breeuwer Marcel , Caballero-Gaudes César , Hellrung Lydia , Huijbers Willem , Jansen Jacobus FA , Lamerichs Rolf , Zinger Svitlana , Aldenkamp Albert P
Published: December 2020

A multi-echo fMRI dataset (N=28 healthy participants) with four task-based and two resting state runs was collected, curated and made available to the community. Its main purpose is to advance the development of methods for real-time multi-echo functional magnetic resonance imaging (rt-me-fMRI) analysis with applications in neurofeedback, real-time quality control, and adaptive paradigms, although the variety of experimental task paradigms supports a multitude of use cases. Tasks include finger tapping, emotional face and shape matching, imagined finger tapping and imagined emotion processing. This work provides a detailed description of the full dataset; methods to collect, prepare, standardize and preprocess it; quality control measures; and data validation measures. A web-based application is provided as a supplementary tool with which to interactively explore, visualize and understand the data and its derivative measures:https://rt-me-fmri.herokuapp.com/. The dataset itself can be accessed via a data use agreement on DataverseNL athttps://dataverse.nl/dataverse/rt-me-fmri. Supporting information and code for reproducibility can be accessed athttps://github.com/jsheunis/rt-me-fMRI.
Identification of potential coagulation pathway abnormalities in SARS-Cov-2 infection; insights from bioinformatics analysis
Authors: Arjmand Sareh , Hosseinkhan Nazanin
Published: December 2020

Abnormal coagulation parameters have been explored in a significant number of severe COVID-19 patients, linked to poor prognosis and increased risk of organ failure. Here, to uncover the potential abnormalities in coagulation pathways, we analyzed the RNA-seq data (GEO147507) obtained from the treatment of three pulmonary epithelial cell lines with SARS-CoV-2. The significant differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were subjected to Enrichr database for KEGG pathway enrichment analysis and gene ontology (GO) functional annotation. The STRING database was used to generate PPI networks for identified DEGs. We found three upregulated procoagulant genes (SERPINE1, SERPINA5, and SERPINB2) belong to the serine protease inhibitor (serpin) superfamily that inhibit tissue plasminogen activator (t-PA) and urokinase plasminogen activator (u-PA) in the fibrinolysis process. In conclusion, we suggest the fibrinolysis process, especially the blockage of t-PA and u-PA inhibitors, a potential target for more study in treating coagulopathy in severe COVID-19 cases.
Comparative profiling of N-respirasomes predicts aberrant mitochondrial bioenergetics at single-cell resolution
Authors: Bertan Fabio , Wischhof Lena , Scifo Enzo , Guranda Mihaela , Jackson Joshua , Marsal-Cots Anaïs , Piazzesi Antonia , Stork Miriam , Peitz Michael , Prehn Jochen H. M. , Ehninger Dan , Nicotera Pierluigi , Bano Daniele
Published: December 2020

Abstract

Mitochondria sustain the energy demand of the cell. The composition and functional state of the mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation system are informative indicators of organelle homeostasis and bioenergetic capacity. Here we describe a highly sensitive and reproducible method for single-cell visualization and quantification of mitochondrial respiratory supercomplexes as a novel means of measuring mitochondrial respiratory chain integrity. We apply a proximity ligation assay (PLA) and perform comparative studies of mitochondrial CI, CIII and CIV-containing supercomplexes (or N-respirasomes) in fixed human and mouse brain tissues, tumorigenic cells, iPSCs and iPSC-derived NPCs and neurons. Our optimized approach enables a quantitativein-situassessment of even subtle mitochondrial lesions associated with aberrant respiration. By combining quantitative proteomics with single cell imaging analysis, we also report the mechanistic contribution of the MICOS complex subunit CHCHD3 in regulating N-respirasomes. Overall, our PLA-based profiling of N-respirasomes establishes a sensitive and complementary technique for detecting cell-type specific mitochondrial perturbations in fixed materials.
Proteasomal degradation of human SERINC4: a potent host anti-HIV-1 factor that is antagonized by Nef
Authors: Qiu Xusheng , Eke Ifeanyichukwu E. , Johnson Silas F. , Ding Chan , Zheng Yong-Hui
Published: December 2020

The serine incorporator (SERINC) protein family has five paralogous members with 9-11 transmembrane domains. SERINC5 is a potent host restriction factor and antagonized by HIV-1 Nef and two other retroviral accessory proteins via the lysosomal degradation pathway. Here, we investigated human SERINC4 expression and antiviral mechanisms. Unlike its four paralogs, human SERINC4 is subjected to proteasome-mediated turnover, resulting in ~250-fold lower expression than SERINC5. However, when expression was normalized, human SERINC4 restricted HIV-1 replication as effectively as SERINC5, and SERINC4 was also antagonized by Nef via the lysosomal pathway. Although SERINC4 proteins are conserved within primates or rodents, their N-terminal regions are highly variable across species. Interestingly, unlike human SERINC4, murine SERINC4 was stably expressed but had a very poor antiviral activity. We created stable SERINC4 chimeras by replacing the N-terminal region and found that the 1-34 and 35-92 amino acids determine SERINC4 antiviral activity or protein expression, respectively. Using these chimeras, we demonstrate that SERINC4 is incorporated into HIV-1 virions and restricts Tier 1 HIV-1 more effectively than Tier 3 HIV-1. Importantly, SERINC4 increases HIV-1 sensitivity to broadly neutralizing antibodies. Thus, human SERINC4 strongly restricts HIV-1 replication when it is overexpressed, which reflects a potential antiviral activity of this gene product under physiological conditions.

Highlights

Identification of another potent anti-HIV-1 host factor SERINC4 from the SERINC family

Identification of two N-terminal domains that regulate SERINC4 expression and antiviral activity

Understanding the natural degradation of human SERINC4 by the proteasomal pathway

Understanding the important role of the lysosomal pathway in Nef antagonism of host restriction
GLI3 Processing by the Primary Cilium Regulates Muscle Stem Cell Entry into GAlert
Authors: Brun Caroline E. , Sincennes Marie-Claude , Lin Alexander Y.T. , Hall Derek , Jarassier William , Feige Peter , Ritso Morten , Le Grand Fabien , Rudnicki Michael A.
Published: December 2020

Satellite cells are required for the growth, maintenance, and regeneration of skeletal muscle. Quiescent satellite cells possess a primary cilium, a structure that regulates the processing of the GLI family of transcription factors. Here we find that GLI3, specifically, plays a critical role in satellite cell activation. Primary cilia-mediated processing of GLI3 is required to maintain satellite cells in a G0dormant state. Strikingly, satellite cells lacking GLI3 enter GAlertin the absence of injury. Furthermore, GLI3 depletion or inhibition of its processing stimulates symmetrical division in satellite cells and expansion of the stem cell pool. As a result, satellite cells lacking GLI3 display rapid cell-cycle entry, increased proliferation and augmented self-renewal, and markedly enhanced long-term regenerative capacity. Therefore, our results reveal an essential role for primary cilia processing of GLI3 in regulating muscle stem cell activation and fate.
Quantifying phase separation property of chromatin associated proteins under physiological conditions using anti-1,6-hexanediol index
Authors: Shi Minglei , You Kaiqiang , Chen Taoyu , Hou Chao , Liang Zhengyu , Liu Mingwei , Wang Jifeng , Wei Taotao , Qin Jun , Chen Yang , Zhang Michael Q. , Li Tingting
Published: December 2020

Background

Liquid–liquid phase separation (LLPS) is an important organizing principle for biomolecular condensation and chromosome compartmentalization. However, while many proteins have been reported to undergo LLPS, quantitative and global analysis of chromatin LLPS property remains absent.

Results

Here, by combing chromatin associated protein pull-down, quantitative proteomics and 1,6-hexanediol treatment, we developed Hi-MS and defined anti-1,6-HD index of chromatin-associated proteins (AICAP) to quantitative measurement of LLPS property of chromatin-associated proteins in their endogenous state and physiological abundance. The AICAP values were verified by previously reported experiments and were reproducible across different MS platforms. Moreover, the AICAP values were highly correlate with protein functions. Proteins act in active/regulatory biological process often exhibit low AICAP values, while proteins act in structural and repressed biological process often exhibit high AICAP values. We further revealed that chromatin organization changes more in compartment A than B, and the changes in chromatin organization at various levels, including compartments, TADs and loops are highly correlated to the LLPS properties of their neighbor nuclear condensates.

Conclusions

Our work provided the first global quantitative measurement of LLPS properties of chromatin-associated proteins and higher-order chromatin structure, and demonstrate that the active/regulatory chromatin components, both protein (trans) and DNA (cis), exhibit more hydrophobicity-dependent LLPS properties than the repressed/structural chromatin components.
Algebraic approximations of a polyhedron correlation function stemming from its chord-length distribution
Authors: Ciccariello Salvino
Published: December 2020

An algebraic approximation, of order K, of a polyhedron correlation function (CF) can be obtained from γ′′(r), its chord-length distribution (CLD), considering first, within the subinterval [D

i−1, D

i
] of the full range of distances, a polynomial in the two variables (r − D

i−1)1/2 and (D

i
− r)1/2 such that its expansions around r = D

i−1 and r = D

i
simultaneously coincide with the left and right expansions of γ′′(r) around D

i−1 and D

i
up to the terms O(r − D

i−1)
K/2 and O(D

i
− r)
K/2, respectively. Then, for each i, one integrates twice the polynomial and determines the integration constants matching the resulting integrals at the common end-points. The 3D Fourier transform of the resulting algebraic CF approximation correctly reproduces, at large q's, the asymptotic behaviour of the exact form factor up to the term O[q
−(K/2+4)]. For illustration, the procedure is applied to the cube, the tetrahedron and the octahedron.
Evaluating optimal purchasing and selling decisions of beef cattle replacement females
Authors: Boyer Christopher N. , Griffith Andrew P. , DeLong Karen L.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The objective of this research was to determine the optimal age and pregnancy status for buying and selling replacement of beef females for risk-neutral and risk-averse producers.

Design/methodology/approach

A hedonic pricing model was estimated to measure how age, pregnancy status, breed and cull cow prices impact the sale price of these cattle. Data came from an annual heifer and cow sale in Tennessee between 2009 and 2018. A financial simulation model was developed to generate distributions of net present value (NPV) for buying replacement females at various ages and pregnancy status and then selling that female at various ages and pregnancy status.

Findings

The hedonic pricing model indicates sale prices were highest for five-year-old cows that were between four to five months pregnant. NPV was higher for buying heifers versus buying cows and for buying an open female versus a pregnant female. Regardless of age and pregnancy status when purchased, NPV was higher when the female was sold as pregnant prior to the end of her productive life. The risk analysis showed that risk aversion, buying older open cows and selling them as pregnant earlier in their productive life was preferred

Originality/value

This research offers unique insight into how pregnancy status and age at sale impacts the animal's NPV while considering risk. These results have implications for educating producers on purchasing and selling decisions of heifers and cows as well as for lenders who finance these purchases.
Generating customer engagement in electronic-brand communities: a stimulus–organism–response perspective
Authors: Naqvi Muhammad Hasnain Abbas , Jiang Yushi , Naqvi Mishal
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This article investigates the factors in customer engagement with electronic brand (e-brand) communities and the mechanism behind their effects. The aim is to investigate the influence of various characteristics of e-brand communities on customer engagement, satisfaction through brand loyalty, and Recommendation.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey questionnaire was administered to 320 Facebook users in Pakistan. The aim is to investigate the influence of various characteristics of e-brand communities on customer engagement, satisfaction through brand loyalty and recommendation. The data were analyzed using PLS-SEM to test a model developed under the stimulus–organism–response perspective.

Findings

Each community attribute significantly affected customer engagement, which was further found to mediate the relationship from these attributes through to customer satisfaction and then to brand loyalty and recommendation.

Originality/value

An original model hypothesized from the stimulus–organism–response framework was validated among an emerging market sample, highlighting the role of customer engagement with e-brand communities in mediating the effects of information and service quality on customer satisfaction.
Together we create value: a study of a crowdsourcing community
Authors: Chung Telin , Kim Kyuree , Shin Eonyou
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The present study aimed to examine the value creation process in an online forum community of a crowdsourcing company by analyzing members' interactions and network structures.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-method approach was adopted. First, a participation-observation netnographic approach was employed to identify the interactions that lead to the collective creation of three types of value: social, intellectual, and cultural. Second, using social network analysis, the collective value creation process was examined through the network structures, and the key actors and their roles in value creation were identified.

Findings

findings presented that members collectively create value in a unique manner for enhancing product designs in a crowdsourcing community. Three types of value coexisted and were often created inter-dependently. The interactions among the members were not dense yet were fairly knitted without any significant core-periphery structures, indicating a less restrained flow of value. The findings of the study identified that most of the bridging members in the network were likely to have diverse social and intellectual resources.

Originality/value

The present study was one of the first to examine the collective value creation process through a network perspective. In particular, this study offered a richer understanding of the unique collective value creation process in a crowdsourcing community and the role of bridging actors in the network. Implications for crowdsourcing companies are provided to sustain a continuous flow of quality contributions from the forum community members.
Public responses to employee posts on social media: the effects of message valence, message content, and employer reputation
Authors: Lee Yeunjae , Cho Su Yeon , Sun Ruoyu , Li Cong
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This study examines the effects of employees' personal social media posts on external publics' online engagement and offline word-of-mouth (WOM) intentions about a company. Specifically, it investigates how employee post characteristics including valence and content and employer reputation jointly influence publics' online and offline behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (post valence: positive vs. negative) × 2 (post content: organization-related vs. job-related) × 2 (employer reputation: good vs. bad) between-subjects experiment was conducted. Participants were asked to view a stimulus social media post created by a fictitious company employee, reflecting one of the eight experimental conditions on a random basis. After viewing, they were requested to report their online engagement intentions (i.e., “like,” “share” and “comment”) with the post and offline WOM intentions about the company.

Findings

The experimental results showed that participants expressed more “like” intentions when they viewed a positive post than a negative post. Further, they were more likely to “comment” on a job-related post as opposed to an organization-related post. In addition, a significant interaction effect between post valence and employer reputation on publics' online engagement was found, which in turn influenced their offline WOM intentions about the company.

Originality/value

This study is among the first empirical attempts to examine the effectiveness of employees' personal social media posts on external publics' online and offline behaviors. The experimental findings highlight the importance of managing employee relations from a corporate reputation perspective.
Girls in IT: intentionally self-excluded or products of high school as a site of exclusion?
Authors: Vainionpää Fanny , Kinnula Marianne , Iivari Netta , Molin-Juustila Tonja
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The low number of women in the information technology (IT) field is a concern. The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors behind the exclusion of girls from the IT field.

Design/methodology/approach

The present work includes a narrative literature review and an exploratory interview study with ten girls and six study guidance counsellors (GCs) from Finnish senior high schools. Using the nexus analysis as a theoretical lens, the authors examined the exclusion of girls from IT.

Findings

Earlier literature directed attention to the cultural norms, assumptions and stereotypes still prevalent in society and the lack of role models and positive media as factors contributing to girls excluding themselves from the IT field. In this research study’s data, the authors not only found evidence of the unintentional exclusion of girls from IT by others but also by the girls themselves. Findings of this research study illustrate the various discourses, actors and their interactions, their background and history-related factors affecting girls' career choices. The novelty of this study is in approaching high school as a site of exclusion, where problematic discourses, interactions and histories come together, reproducing exclusion of girls from the IT field.

Originality/value

The authors contribute with a literature review of the research study on gender and IT and the inclusion/exclusion dynamics around IT. Using the nexus analysis, the authors identify the exclusion dynamics in this complex social issue. Several decades of research have shown that the inclusion of women remains low in IT disciplines. In this study, high schools are viewed as sites of exclusion, engendering a prevalent lack of information and education on the field. The authors offer novel insights into the role of curriculum, GCs and online information excluding girls from the IT field.
The Chinese robot industry
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an insight into China’s rapidly developing robot industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a short introduction, this paper first provides a market perspective and then identifies the key user industries and gives examples of applications. The robot supply companies are considered and details are provided for some of the more important. The research effort is then discussed, together with some examples of recent developments. Finally, conclusions are drawn.

Findings

The Chinese robot market is the largest in the world although the robot density remains far lower than that of many other industrialised nations. Major users include the electrical and electronics sector and the automotive industry, together with growing applications in the burgeoning hospitality and logistics sectors. Markets are presently dominated by foreign companies, but the government has ambitious plans to boost domestic production, and with the aid of financial incentives, the number of Chinese robot manufactures has recently increased dramatically. The country’s robot research effort is diverse and wide ranging and benefits from significant levels of government funding. China is ultimately expected to become a major force within the global robot business.

Originality/value

This illustrates the growing importance of robots in China, both in its industries and as a robot manufacturer.
Jet without fuel: nosedive of Jet Airways
Authors: Upadhyay Satwik , Farooq Rayees , Tripathi Nachiketa
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This case describes the vulnerability of the Indian aviation sector by highlighting the fall of Jet Airways from one of the biggest airlines in India to bankruptcy. The present case discusses the role of Jet Airways' leadership in managing the external threats that affect aviation business in India.

Design/methodology/approach

The present case is built on data collected from secondary sources, including publicly available information about the company, journals, websites, newspapers and reports.

Findings

The case reports findings of how hubris-driven strategic decisions and insecurity of the leader in losing control of the company, led to the grounding of one of the major airline companies in the Indian aviation industry.

Originality/value

The present case study provides valuable insights into the aviation industry in India, focusing on the threats to the aviation business. The case is useful to other airline companies and the aviation business community in dealing with external threats to business and issues of leadership dysfunction.
Interlinkages between coopetition and organisational innovation in Europe
Authors: Navío-Marco Julio , Ibar-Alonso Raquel , Bujidos-Casado Maria
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the relationship between coopetition and organisational innovation in EU countries. As coopetition is usually studied from an inter-company perspective, this work looks in detail at the “ad intra” dynamics of the coopeting companies to understand how they adjust their organisation or implement organisational innovation to successfully adopt this original approach.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from the Eurostat (CIS2014), this research offers a quantitative study into coopeting companies, relating coopetition to organisational innovation. The analysis technique used in this study is logistic regression with maximum likelihood estimation, where the dependent variable is the location of the coopeting companies.

Findings

The findings highlight specific characteristics and differences according to whether a company coopetes domestically or in other more complex geographic environments. It also incorporates variables into the analysis, such as the use of price marketing, employee training and company size.

Originality/value

This study provides insights into the relationship between coopetition and organisational innovation, in a research field that usually focusses on inter-company analysis. Several little-studied factors are included in the analysis, such as the role of employee qualifications and differences in coopetition in different geographic areas. The authors observe that, in certain locations, coopetition could be related to a “market entry” effect.
The impact of social features underlying inter-organizational networks on learning: insights from Brazilian evidence
Authors: Klein Leander Luiz , Bortolaso Ingridi Vargas , Minà Anna
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of social features of an inter-organizational network on organizational learning and, in turn, on its performance. Specifically, this paper focuses on the following social features: proximity among members, trust among members, trust in network management, commitment among members, members’ engagement and exchange of information.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on evidence from a survey involving 101 organizations that integrate the Cooperation Networks established in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The authors analyze data by using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling. Furthermore, they advance to also measuring “subjective” variables to business excellence.

Findings

The authors find that trust in network management and information exchange is positively associated with organizational learning. In turn, organizational learning appears to impact network members’ performance positively. Arguably, no results about the impact of proximity among members, trust among members and commitment among members are interesting to activate a discussion on the role of region cultural dimensions in shaping the impact of social features underlying the inter-organizational networks on organizational learning.

Research limitations/implications

This study can be enriched by considering moderating variables in the relationships between the social conditions underlying inter-organizational network and learning.

Practical implications

The authors critically discuss the social features underlying the inter-organizational networks that impact learning among network members and how these aspects may be addressed to improve performance.

Originality/value

Given the focus of this empirical analysis, the authors advance the idea that regional culture is the layer of culture that most powerfully inspires the social features of networks, and shapes organizational learning.
Zakah compliance in Muslim countries: an economic and socio-psychological perspective
Authors: Bin-Nashwan Saeed Awadh , Abdul-Jabbar Hijattulah , Aziz Saliza Abdul , Sarea Adel
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Although Zakah is the cornerstone of the social protection system in Muslim societies, providing relief to those in need and collecting funds from those who have access to money and property, many administrative and legal improvements need to be made to ensure that Zakah funds are managed effectively and efficiently in Muslim states. It is therefore important to recognize why some Muslims are not paying their Zakah through Zakah authorities. The purpose of this paper is to propose a viable and comprehensive research model, derived from an economic and socio-psychological perspective, to provide a richer understanding of Zakah payers’ compliance behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on extant literature, this study offers a conceptual framework for a better understanding of compliance behaviour by proposing an economic and socio-psychological model based on Fischer’s tax compliance model, which could be applied cautiously in an Islamic setting like Zakah.

Findings

The four main categories of the Fischer model are derived from socio-psychological and economic perspectives, namely, attitude and perception (system fairness, ethics and peer influence); Zakah system structure (Zakah law complexity and law enforcement); non-compliance opportunity (education level, wealth source and occupation); and demographic factors (age and gender). Each has much to offer in understanding Zakah payers’ compliance decisions. To suit the nature of Zakah, the influence of Islamic religiosity and the moderating effect of trust in the Zakah institution are incorporated into the model.

Practical implications

Those Muslim communities that strive to have functional Zakah systems to search for solutions to the perennial problem of low Zakah funding and its damning consequences, are offered a compliance model for systematically assessing Muslims’ compliance behaviour with Zakah provisions. This framework is anticipated to offer invaluable input to policymakers in streaming and strategizing the minimization of losses of Zakah revenue to Zakah authorities.

Originality/value

Although behavioural models such as the theory of reasoned action and the theory of planned behaviour have been extensively used in Zakah compliance studies, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is perhaps the first to apply a socio-psychological and economic framework, emerging from tax literature, in the Zakah environment to develop fully understanding of Zakah payers’ compliance decisions.
The role of sports marketing in attracting audiences towards less popular sports
Authors: Sedky Dalia , Kortam Wael , AbouAish Ehab
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how sports marketing can attract audiences towards less popular sports.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 22 interviews were conducted first to explore the opinions of sports professionals about how audiences can be attracted towards less popular sports. Then 479 responses to an online questionnaire were collected. The online questionnaire includes a pretest-posttest experiment in which each respondent has watched a video. Confirmatory factor analysis, reliability test and hierarchical regression analysis have been performed.

Findings

The elements of sports marketing that can help to attract audiences towards less popular sports are sports media, sports advertising, star athlete and sports sponsorship. The performance of national teams moderates the relationship between sports advertising and attraction towards less popular sports.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, a definition of sustainable sports marketing is introduced for the first time. Sustainable sports marketing can be defined as the continuous implementation of marketing activities in the sports context to ensure the continuous existence of the sports themselves (all types of sports) and the prosperity of future generations. Elements that can attract audiences towards less popular sports have been examined for the first time.
Enhancement of value stream mapping application process through using fuzzy DEMATEL and fuzzy QFD approaches: a case study considering economic and environmental perspectives
Authors: Aouag Hichem , Soltani Mohyiddine , Mouss Mohamed Djamel
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate an integrated approach that aims at enhancing the application process of value stream mapping (VSM) method. It also proposes an extended VSM called Economic and Environmental VSM(E-EVSM). The proposed approach highlights the improvement of economic and environmental performances.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed approach has studied the integration of VSM, fuzzy decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) and fuzzy quality function deployment (QFD) to improve the economic and environmental performances of manufacturing processes. The VSM method is used for data collection and manufacturing process assessment, whereas fuzzy DEMATEL is used to analyse the current state map. Finally, fuzzy QFD is used to organize the improvement phase of VSM method.

Findings

The clear findings of this research prove the effectiveness of VSM method on the environmental and economic performances of manufacturing processes. In addition, the proposed approach will show the advantages of fuzzy DEMATEL and fuzzy QFD approaches in improving the application of the VSM method.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of this study includes the lack of consideration of other dimensions such as social, technological and managerial. In addition, the proposed approach studied an average set of environmental and economic indicators.

Originality/value

The novelty of the proposed approach is proved by the development of an extended VSM method (E-EVSM). Also, the proposed approach contributes by a new methodology for analysing and improving the current state map of manufacturing processes.
A conceptual framework for understanding the antecedents and consequences of social selling: a theoretical perspective and research agenda
Authors: Barney-McNamara Barbara , Peltier James , Chennamaneni Pavan Rao , Niedermeier Keith Eric
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a detail review of the social selling literature and to offer future research needs. Social selling has gained the attention of sales researchers. Rather than merely a new tool, social selling redefines the traditional sales process. However, the literature is spread across topics of social media and sales, social customer relationship management, salesforce automation and social selling, and does not provide an agreed-upon definition or tested construct for implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a comprehensive literature review of social selling and all related terminology.

Findings

The authors propose a social selling framework that includes personal branding, information exchange, networking and social listening to define and outline the construct while suggesting the antecedents and outcomes to guide future research. Findings from a literature review include outlining key theories used in social selling research.

Originality/value

This review offers a conceptual framework of social selling, including both antecedents and outcomes, to inform future research and guide academics and practitioners.
Talking bodies – an embodied approach to service employees’ work
Authors: Kuuru Tiina-Kaisa , Närvänen Elina
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to study the embodied nature of service employees’ work in human touch contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts the practice theory as its interpretive approach, using focus group interviews with service employees from different industries.

Findings

The study identifies four practice bundles related to the embodied dimension of service employees’ work: orienting, attuning, connecting and wrapping up. The findings illustrate how employees’ knowledge, skills and capabilities are used via the body.

Practical implications

The study provides guidance for managers to use an embodied perspective in the management of service employees.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the discussion on embodiment in service encounters by highlighting the embodied nature of service employees’ work.
A study of service quality, corporate image, customer satisfaction, revisit intention and word-of-mouth: evidence from the KTV industry
Authors: Khoo Kim Leng
Published: December 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the impact of service quality on corporate image and customer satisfaction. Furthermore, this study also examined the influence of corporate image and customer satisfaction on revisit intention and word of mouth. The mediation effect of corporate image and customer satisfaction on the relationships between service quality–revisit intention and service quality–word of mouth was also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used the survey questionnaire method and collected data from 253 respondents comprising of customers who had karaoke singing experience in the Karaoke television (KTV). The partial least squares structural equation modeling was used in this study.

Findings

This study found that service quality has a significant positive influence on corporate image and customer satisfaction. Corporate image does not have a significant influence on revisit intention but has a significant positive influence on word of mouth. Furthermore, customer satisfaction has a significant positive influence on revisit intention and word of mouth. The mediation effect of corporate image and customer satisfaction is also found to be significant for most of the relationships.

Originality/value

This study showed the importance of service on customers’ reactions and behaviors in the KTV context, which have not been previously investigated. Businesses should always provide superior service quality to their customers because it impacts their subsequent behaviors such as revisit intention and word of mouth.
Halochromic optical nose for assessment of spoilage of packed seer fish
Authors: Devarayan Kesavan , Sivakami Nagaraju Kopperundevi , Pandiyan Padmavathi
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The present study aims to describe the development of halochromic thin film sensors using mixed indicator dyes for monitoring the spoilage of packed seer fish.

Design/methodology/approach

Thin film was prepared using renewable polysaccharide incorporated with mixed indicator dyes. The thin film was characterized using ultraviolet visible and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy. The characteristics of the thin film were studied by analyzing the CIELAB and Red Green Blue values and biodegradability. The thin films were evaluated for real-time monitoring of the spoilage of packed seer fish.

Findings

The thin film sensors were found to exhibit excellent halochromism. The color changes were visible and distinguishable. The sensors responded efficiently for real-time monitoring of spoilage of fish by showing unique color changes.

Originality/value

This study provides promising mixed indicator that exhibits different colors in the alkaline pH. Also the present study reveals a potential combination of materials for preparation of halochromic sensors that can be used for monitoring the spoilage of packed seer fish in real time.
Powder characterization and part density for powder bed fusion of 17-4 PH stainless steel
Authors: Dobson Sean Daniel , Starr Thomas Louis
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Characteristics of the metal powder are a key factor in the success of powder bed fusion (PBF) additive manufacturing. Powders for PBF from different manufacturers may have a different particle size and/or bulk packing and flow behavior. Powder properties change as the powder is reused for multiple builds. This study seeks to measure the variability of commercial 17-4 PH stainless steel powders to determine the effect of powder variability on part density and demonstrate characterization methods that ensure part quality.

Design/methodology/approach

Commercial atomized metal powders from four different vendors were produced with two different atomizing gases (N2 and argon). Powder was characterized in both new and extensively reused conditions. All powders were characterized for flow and packing behavior, particle size and internal porosity. Coupons were manufactured using the laser PBF process with optimized scan strategy and exposure parameters. The quality of fabricated parts was measured using bulk density measurement.

Findings

Despite differences in powder flowability and particle size, fully dense parts (>99 per cent) were produced using all powders, except one. Residual porosity in these parts appeared to result from gas trapped in the powder particles. The powder with extensive reuse (400+ h in machine fabrication environment) exhibited reduced flowability and increased fraction of fine particles, but still produced full density parts.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that full density parts can be fabricated using powders with a range of flowability and packing behavior. This suggests that a single flowability measurement may be sufficient for quality assurance in a production environment.
Experimental and computational analysis of mechanical properties of RGD840 material manufactured through PolyJet process
Authors: Maurya Nagendra Kumar , Rastogi Vikas , Singh Pushpendra
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Nowadays, the PolyJet technique is used to fabricate low volume functional parts in engineering and biomedical applications. However, the mechanical properties of the components fabricated through this process are inferior in comparison to components fabricated through the traditional manufacturing process. This paper aims to attempt to investigate the influence of process parameters, i.e. raster angle, orientation and type of surface finish on mechanical properties of RGD840 material manufactured by the PolyJet process.

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, this study focuses on experimental evaluation of elastic modulus, ultimate tensile strength and percentage elongation of the material. Further detailed experimental study of true stress, true strain, and plastic strain are conducted. Computational analysis of plastic strain is performed by using finite element analysis (FEA) software ABAQUS. The value of strength coefficient (K) and strain hardening coefficient (n) is calculated by using the graphical method from the true stress-plastic strain curve.

Findings

It is observed that 90º raster angle, flat orientation and glossy surface are the best level of process parameters for the tensile strength, true stress and modules of elasticity of the RGD840 material and the obtained value are 27.88, 30.134 and 2891.5 MPa, respectively. The percentage elongation is maximum at 60º raster angle, flat orientation, and matte finish type and the obtained value is 23.38%. The optimum level of process parameters are 90° raster angle, Flat orientation, with Glossy surface finish. SEM analysis of the fracture surface of the tensile test specimen proves that the fracture surface is brittle in nature.

Originality/value

The novelty of this work lies in the fact that no attempts were made to investigate the computational investigation of mechanical properties of RGD840 material.
Training in the use of intrapartum electronic fetal monitoring with cardiotocography: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kelly S , Redmond P , King S , Oliver‐Williams C , Lamé G , Liberati E , Kuhn I , Winter C , Draycott T , Dixon‐Woods M , Burt J
Published: December 2020

Background

Sub‐optimal classification, interpretation and response to intrapartum electronic fetal monitoring using cardiotocography are known problems. Training is often recommended as a solution, but there is lack of clarity about the effects of training and which type of training works best.

Objectives

Systematic review of the effects of training healthcare professionals in intrapartum cardiotocography (PROSPERO protocol: CRD42017064525).

Search strategy

CENTRAL, Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, PsycINFO, British Nursing Database, CINAHL, ERIC, Scopus, Web of Science, ProQuest, grey literature and ongoing clinical trials were searched.

Selection criteria

Primary studies that reported impact of training healthcare professionals in intrapartum cardiotocography. Title/abstract, full‐text screening and quality assessment were conducted in duplicate.

Data collection and analysis

Data were synthesised both narratively and using meta‐analysis. Risk of bias and overall quality were assessed with the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool and GRADE.

Main results

Sixty‐four studies were included. Overall, training and reporting were heterogeneous, the outcomes evaluated varied widely and study quality was low. Five randomised controlled trials reported that training improved knowledge of maternity professionals compared with no training, but evidence was of low quality. Evidence for the impact of cardiotocography training on neonatal and maternal outcomes was limited, showed inconsistent effects, and was of low overall quality. Evidence for the optimal content and method of delivery of training was very limited.

Conclusions

Given the scale of harm and litigation claims associated with electronic fetal monitoring, the evidence‐base for training requires improvement. It should address intervention design, evaluation of clinical outcomes and system‐wide contexts of sub‐optimal practice.

Tweetable abstract

Training in fetal monitoring: systematic review finds little evidence of impact on neonatal outcomes.