bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
509. The Prevalence of Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacteriaceae (CRE) in a Community Hospital Setting
Authors: Lewis Sally , Wulf Jenny , Jaffri Anwer
Published: July 2020

Background

Carbapenems are bactericidal β-lactam antibiotics with a wide spectrum of antimicrobial activity. The emergence of carbapenem resistance, specifically carbapenem-resistant enterobacteriaceae (CRE), has left few viable treatment options. Multiple factors contribute to overutilization of carbapenems. At Union Hospital, in Terre Haute, Indiana, carbapenems are utilized for patients with a documented anaphylactic allergy to penicillins and cephalosporins and are the drug of choice for the treatment of ESBL infections. The overuse and inappropriate use of carbapenems plus increasing resistance has contributed to the development of CRE and other multi-drug-resistant organisms. Thus, an examination of resistance patterns was conducted at a smaller level in a community hospital.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted to examine carbapenem resistance patterns at Union Hospital. Patients with a CRE diagnosis from June 2017 to July 2018 were included. Data analysis examined baseline characteristics, culture site, presence of carbapenamase production, treatment agent, and patient outcome. An assessment of true infection vs. colonization was conducted for all positive CRE cultures.

Results

Fifty-three patients were identified with a culture-proven CRE diagnosis. CRE was isolated from the following sites: urine, sputum, bronchial wash, blood, and tissue/wound culture. True infection was identified in 32 cases. For the 18 cases with likely colonization, urine was the most common site. Klebsiella pneumoniae was the most common organism identified with carbapenem-resistance. Fluoroquinolones, either alone or in combination with other agents, were the most commonly used agents to treat CRE infection. The average duration of targeted antibiotic therapy was 9 days. Mortality rates at 30 and 90 days were 10% and 14%, respectively.

Conclusion

The prevalence of CRE infections is on the rise, and may be a result of increased broad-spectrum antibiotic use combined with inappropriate carbapenem use. Unconventional agents, such as fluoroquinolones, are being utilized to manage patients with documented CRE infection at Union Hospital.

Disclosures

All authors: No reported disclosures.
Evolution of Islamic Law in the 20th Century: The Conception of Collective Ijtihād in the Debate Between Muslim Scholars
Authors: Makhlouf Ahmed Gad
Published: July 2020

In order to meet the demands of modern life and its complexities, Muslim scholars developed in the 20th century a new instrument of Islamic legal finding, namely al-ijtihād al-jamāʿī [collective independent legal reasoning (ijtihād)]. The latter serves at present as a basis for the technical work within various institutions of contemporary Islamic law, in particular the fiqh academies. This article examines collective ijtihād as a newly developed concept of modern Islamic Law. By focusing on discussions among contemporary Muslim scholars about this concept, I aim to outline certain theoretical characteristics and a methodological framework for collective ijtihād. Furthermore, this article describes positions taken by Muslim scholars concerning the legitimacy and the probative value (ḥujjiyya) of collective ijtihād.
Bridging a Divide: A Faith-Based Perspective on Anti-Discrimination Law
Authors: Bell Mark
Published: July 2020

High-profile litigation in various jurisdictions has drawn attention to situations where conflict arises between the requirements of anti-discrimination law and the religious beliefs and practices of individuals and organizations. Although these disputes reflect genuine disagreements, this article argues that, in addition to litigation, other facets of the relationship between faith and anti-discrimination law need to be considered. Taking Catholic Social Teaching as a case study, the article explores anti-discrimination law through a theological lens. In this example, it identifies significant common ground where religious beliefs are congruent with anti-discrimination law, even if areas of divergence are also present. The article concludes that further exploration of law and theology could make a contribution to fostering a more constructive relationship between faith and anti-discrimination law.
Enhanced root exudation of mature broadleaf and conifer trees in a Mediterranean forest during the dry season
Authors: Jakoby Gilad , Rog Ido , Megidish Shacham , Klein Tamir
Published: July 2020

Root exudates are part of the rhizodeposition process, which is the major source of soil organic carbon (C) released by plant roots. This flux of C is believed to have profound effects on C and nutrient cycling in ecosystems. The quantity of root exudates depends on the plant species, the period throughout the year, and external biotic and abiotic factors. Since root exudates of mature trees are difficult to collect in field conditions, very little is known about their flux, especially in water-limited ecosystems, such as the seasonally hot and dry Mediterranean maquis. Here, we collected exudates from DNA-identified roots in the forest from the gymnosperm Cupressus sempervirens L. and the evergreen angiosperm Pistacia lentiscus L. by 48-h incubations on a monthly temporal resolution throughout the year. We examined relationships of the root exudate C flux to abiotic parameters of the soil (water content, water potential, temperature) and atmosphere (vapor pressure deficit, temperature). We also studied relationships to C fluxes through the leaves as indicators of tree C balance. Root exudation rates varied significantly along the year, increasing from 6 μg C cm −2 root day−1 in both species in the wet season to 4- and 11-fold rates in Pistacia and Cupressus, respectively, in the dry season. A stepwise linear mixed-effects model showed that the three soil parameters were the most influential on exudation rates. Among biotic factors, there was a significant negative correlation of exudation rate with leaf assimilation in Cupressus and a significant negative correlation with leaf respiration in Pistacia. Our observation of enhanced exudation flux during the dry season indicates that exudation dynamics in the field are less sensitive to the low tree C availability in the dry season. The two key Mediterranean forest species seem to respond to seasonal changes in the rhizosphere such as drying and warming, and therefore invest C in the rhizosphere under seasonal drought.
Minimum spring temperatures at the provenance origin drive leaf phenology in sugar maple populations
Authors: Guo Xiali , Khare Siddhartha , Silvestro Roberto , Huang Jianguo , Sylvain Jean-Daniel , Delagrange Sylvain , Rossi Sergio
Published: July 2020

Late frost can cause damage to trees, especially to the developing bud of broadleaf species in spring. Through long-term adaptation, plants adjust leaf phenology to achieve an optimal trade-off between growing season length and frost avoidance. In this study, we aim to assess ecotypic differentiation in leaf development of sugar maple populations planted in a common garden. A total of 272 sugar maple seedlings from 29 Canadian provenances were planted at the northern boundary of the natural range, and the phenological phases of bud and leaf development were monitored during spring 2019. The wide geographical area under evaluation showed a complex seasonal pattern of temperature, with spring warming occurring later in the north and close to the sea. Overall, leaf development lasted between 20 and 36 days, from the end of May to end of June. We observed different timings and rates of leaf development among provenances, demonstrating the occurrence of ecotypes in this species. Minimum April temperatures of the original sites were able to explain such differences, while maximum April temperatures were not significant. Seedlings from sites with colder minimum April temperatures completed leaf development earlier and faster. On average, leaf development diverged by up to 6 days among provenances, with minimum April temperatures ranging from −3 to 3 °C. Our results demonstrated that the avoidance of late spring frost is a driving force of leaf development in sugar maple populations. In the colder sites, the growing season is a limiting factor for tree growth. Thus, when thermal conditions become favorable in spring, an earlier growth reactivation and high metabolic activity ensure a fast leaf emission, which maximizes the period available for photosynthesis and growth. These patterns demonstrate the long-term phenological adaptation of sugar maple populations to local climatic conditions and suggest the importance of frost events for leaf development.
8Poetics
Authors: Dowling Sarah
Published: July 2020

This chapter surveys scholarship in poetics published in 2019 that engages with concepts of ‘world’. I begin from the contention that poetics scholarship is at a crossroads: while questions of race, nation, and politics were often cast aside in poetry criticism of the late twentieth century in favor of considerations of modernist lineages and philosophical approaches to language, new work in poetics increasingly prioritizes the discussion of racial capitalism, colonialism, and dispossession. The review is divided into four sections: 1. Introduction; 2. Poetry and the World, which considers three works that discuss poetry in relationship to world literature; 3. Worlds of Poetry, which examines three works that consider the so-called poetry world; and 4. Conclusion. The works discussed in this review include two scholarly monographs, a collection of experimental essays by a poet-critic and translator, an introduction to poetry by a poet and literary critic, a short polemic by a poet-critic and ethnic studies scholar, and a journal article exemplifying what I take to be the most significant new direction in poetics scholarship, namely the re-evaluation of apparently abstract, depersonalized formal and generic categories through the analytic of race.
Influences of Maternal Prepregnancy Obesity and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus on the Infant Gut Microbiome in Full-Term Infants
Authors: Dunton Montana , Inglett Sandra , Marin Terri
Published: July 2020

This review examines the current evidence of how prepregnancy obesity (PPO) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) influence the newborn gut microbiome. Scientific gaps in the literature are described to guide future research in this area. The prevalence of PPO and GDM increased to 64% in the United States over the past decade. Prepregnancy obesity and GDM influence newborn gut microbiome and contribute to adverse short- and long-term outcomes in full-term infants. This review aims to discuss current research findings related to the associations between PPO and GDM, separately, and together, on infant gut microbiome outcomes, provide an overview of short-term and long-term outcomes, describe clinical relevance, and identify avenues for future scientific inquiry. This review found that PPO and GDM influence infant gut microbiomes. Infants born to women with PPO and GDM were found to have lower levels of diversity in gut microbiota than infants born to normal prepregnancy weight women and those born to women without GDM.
Case Report: Suprachoroidal Hemorrhage after Chiropractic Manipulation of the Neck
Authors: El Hamichi Sophia , Graversen Veronica Kon , Gold Aaron S. , Latiff Azeema , Murray Timothy G.
Published: July 2020

SIGNIFICANCE

The case report highlights the possible complications of undergoing neck manipulation within a critical time period after intravitreal injection.

PURPOSE

This study aimed to describe a case of traumatic hemorrhagic choroidal detachment after cervical manipulation during a chiropractic treatment session.

CASE REPORT

A 43-year-old male patient with a history of complex rhegmatogenous retinal detachment repair and recurrent cystoid macular edema presented with decreased vision and sudden pain in the right eye after chiropractic manipulation of the neck, status post-intravitreal injection of triamcinolone, which was performed earlier that day. Vision in the right eye was hand motion and 20/20 in the left eye. IOPs were 8 and 11 mmHg, respectively. Slit lamp examination of the right eye revealed blood-tinged steroid residues in the anterior chamber. There was no view to the posterior pole. Ultrasonography showed a lobulated mass with heterogeneous echogenicity consistent with a large hemorrhagic choroidal detachment. No central kissing was observed. Left eye examination was unremarkable.

CONCLUSIONS

With the increasing use of complementary and alternative medicine, a better understanding of potential complications to raise awareness is becoming essential.
Randomized Clinical Trial of Near Visual Performance with Digital Devices Using Spherical and Toric Contact Lenses
Authors: Logan Anna-Kaye M. , Datta Ananya , Skidmore Kelsea , Tomiyama Erin S. , Hu Chuan , Chandler Moriah A. , Procopio Bryan , Bhadane Minal , Benoit Julia S. , Ritchey Eric R. , Wolffsohn James S. , Richdale Kathryn
Published: July 2020

SIGNIFICANCE

Visual demands today incorporate a significant amount of time using digital devices. Results of this randomized crossover study of spherical and toric contact lenses demonstrated that participants were able to read smaller print size more comfortably and preferred toric contact lenses when using digital devices.

PURPOSE

The purpose of this study was to assess how toric contact lens correction affects subjective and objective outcomes of astigmatic patients using real-world digital devices.

METHODS

Adult participants, aged between 20 and 38 years with −0.75 to −1.50 D of astigmatism were enrolled in this double-masked randomized crossover 10-day study of Alcon Dailies Aqua Comfort Plus Sphere and Toric (Alcon, Geneva, Switzerland) contact lenses. Electronic high- and low-contrast near logMAR visual acuity and contrast sensitivity were tested. Reading performance was assessed using custom iPad applications; one used a reading sentences test, whereas the other analyzed zoom, contrast, and distance with website-based articles. Participants completed the Near Activity Visual Questionnaire and stated their preferred contact lens correction.

RESULTS

Thirty seven participants were screened, 35 participants were enrolled, and 34 participants completed the study. Toric lens correction improved near high- and low-contrast visual acuity by 0.5 to 1 full line (P < .0001) and allowed participants to read one line smaller text on the iPad (P = .01). Participants increased the zoom 11% (P = .004) and the contrast 4% (P = .006) more with spherical lenses while reading articles. Participants held the iPad at approximately the same distance, about 33 cm (P = .63). Eighty five percent of participants preferred the toric correction (P < .0001). Participants reported improved satisfaction with toric lens correction (P = .0002) and noticed the most benefit with tasks such as reading small print and labels/instructions.

CONCLUSIONS

This study used digital devices to demonstrate realistic benefits of toric contact lens designs for astigmatic patients.
Is There a Coexistence of Peritemporal Wormian Bones and Congenital Aural Atresia?
Authors: Saylisoy Suzan
Published: July 2020

In this study, the percent of wormian bones in congenital aural atresia group was higher than healthy group, when tested by the Fisher exact test, there appeared to be no significant statistical difference. However, in congenital aural atresia surgery, surgical manipulation can dislodge these bones causing injury to the surrounding structures. Therefore, the radiologists should report the presence of wormian bones in the peritemporal area.
Dynamics of splashed droplets impacting wheat leaves treated with a fungicide
Authors: Park Hyunggon , Kim Seungho , Gruszewski Hope A. , Schmale David G. , Boreyko Jonathan B. , Jung Sunghwan
Published: July 2020

Wheat is threatened by diseases such as leaf rust. One significant mechanism of disease spread is the liberation and dispersal of rust spores due to rainsplash. However, it is unclear to what extent the spore-laden splashed droplets can transmit the disease to neighbouring leaves. Here, we show that splashed droplets either bounce or stick, depending on the orientation of the leaf and whether the surface of the leaf has been treated with a fungicide. A scaling model revealed that bouncing was enabled when the droplet’s kinetic energy exceeded its pinning energy to the surface. Our findings indicate that, ironically, the application of fungicide to protect a wheat plant may also facilitate pathogen spread and infection by making leaves sticky to spore-laden droplets.
Creating a safe workplace by universal testing of SARS-CoV-2 infection in patients and healthcare workers in the electrophysiology unit having no symptoms of COVID-19: a multi-center experience
Authors: Mohanty Sanghamitra , Lakkireddy Dhanunjaya , Trivedi Chintan , MacDonald Bryan , Mayedo Angel , Rocca Domenico G Della , Gopinathannair Rakesh , Gallinghouse G J , Biase Luigi Di , Horton Rodney , Canby Robert , Natale Andrea
Published: July 2020

Background

As the coronavirus cases continue to surge, the urgent need for universal testing to identify positive cases for effective containment of this highly contagious pandemic has become the center of attention worldwide. However, in spite of extensive discussions, very few places have even attempted to implement it. We evaluated the efficacy of widespread testing in creating a safe workplace in our healthcare community including staff and patients.

Furthermore, we assessed the rate of new infections in patients undergoing electrophysiology (EP) procedure, to see if identification and exclusion of positive cases facilitated establishment of a risk-free operating environment.

Methods

Universal testing was conducted in subjects with no symptoms of COVID-19 including patients and their caregivers and staff in our electrophysiology units along with the Emergency Medical Service (EMS) staff (n=1670)

Results

Of 1670, 758 (45.4%) were EP patients, and the remaining 912 were caregivers, EMS staff and hospital staff from EP clinic and lab. Viral-RNA test revealed 64 (3.8%) positives in the population. A significant increase in the rate of positives was observed from April to June, 2020 (p=0.02). Procedures of positive cases (n=31) were postponed until they tested negative at retesting on day 14. Staff testing positive (n=33) were retested before going back to work after 2 weeks. Because of suspected exposure, 67 staff were retested and source was traced. No new infections were reported in patients during the hospital stay or within 2-weeks after the procedure.

Conclusion

Universal testing to identify positive cases was helpful in creating and maintaining a safe working environment without exposing patients and staff to new infections in the EP unit at the hospital.

Trial Registration Number

clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04352764
Elevated DNA Methylation Gestational Age is Associated with the Risk of Later Bipolar Disorder and Anorexia Nervosa in Twins
Authors: Søholm Hansen Christine , Starnawska Anna , Drong Alexander Werner , Weinsheimer Shantel Marie , Bækvad-Hansen Marie , Helenius Dorte , Giørtz Pedersen Marianne , Bøcker Pedersen Carsten , Mortensen Preben Bo , Christiansen Michael , Hougaard David Michael , Lindgren Cecilia , Werge Thomas Mears , Bybjerg-Grauholm Jonas , Demur Alfonso Buil
Published: July 2020

Background

Foetal development indicates the risk of later disease, but has only been associated with few psychiatric disorders. An aggregated molecular marker of development - DNA methylation based estimates of gestational age (DNAmGA) adjusted for GA, can be indicative of foetal health and development. Twins have the same chronological GA and monozygotic (MZ) twins share genetic liability. We leveraged this to examine whether DNAmGA in neonates associate with later psychiatric disorder, independent of chronological GA, maternal characteristics, genetic influences, and shared environmental factors.

Method

We estimated DNAmGA in 260 MZ and 396 dizygotic (DZ) twin pairs, later diagnosed with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, affective/depressive mood disorder, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder or anorexia. DNAmGA was tested for association with psychiatric outcome by mean discordant twin differences and by linear mixed model (LMM), adjusting for relatedness and potential confounders.

Results

We found elevated DNAmGA to associate with anorexia between discordant DZ and MZ twins (0.74 weeks, 95%CI[0.34:1.14] and 0.28 weeks, 95%CI[0.04:0.53], respectively), and with bipolar disorder between discordant MZ twins (0.85 weeks, 95%CI[0.16:1.53]). Elevated DNAmGA associated significantly with both in the LMM analysis (0.56 weeks, 95%CI[0.32:0.83] and 0.89 weeks, 95%CI[0.32:1.51], respectively).

Conclusions

Elevated DNAmGA is associated with two later onset psychiatric disorders in twins, and thus supports a developmental origin of disease. This association was not confounded by variation in conventional measures of foetal development nor genetic liability. We therefore propose that a novel molecular marker of development, can differentiate between later psychiatric outcome in newborn twins.
Development of a new system for reducing the temperature increase during the positioning of spoilers using pneumatic artificial muscle (PAM)
Authors: Soylak Mustafa , Bakır Mustafa
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The usage of pneumatic artificial muscles (PAMs) is becoming increasingly widespread across a variety of industries because of its advantages such as its lightness and its ability to generate a huge amount of force using the fewest components. The purpose of this paper is to develop a piece of hardware to minimize and equally distribute the thermal changes on the surface of a PAM when positioning using PAMs. A classic PAM and a PAM that contains the hardware suggested for tasks, such as the positioning of spoilers decelerating control surfaces for aircrafts, were compared experimentally.

Design/methodology/approach

Rapid thermal changes were detected in the classic PAM, especially at the tip of the PAM. These thermal changes decrease the positioning sensitivity and reliability, thus shortening life span of the PAMs. A component was developed that could create a circulation of air around the tip of the PAM, preventing the temperature increase caused by still air. It is installed inside the PAM and makes it possible to control the pressurized air volume in crucial areas. Shaped as a perforated metal pipe, the component was embedded inside the PAM and effects of this component were investigated.

Findings

The experiment results have shown that, thanks to the system that was developed, cool air that comes from outside is able to reach the tip of the PAM every time, thus keeping regional temperature increase to a minimum. The temperature increase in the pressurized air inlet was minimized by creating a circulation of air in the area.

Originality/value

With this study, the distribution of heat in different areas on PAM was homogenized at a low cost using the component that was developed.
A systematic literature review and analysis towards developing PPP models for delivering smart infrastructure
Authors: Jayasena Nimesha Sahani , Chan Daniel W.M. , Kumaraswamy Mohan
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Rising human aspirations leading to rapid urbanisation, amidst climate changes and other environmental pressures have aggravated the needs for better-focused sustainable urban development in general as well as for smart and sustainable cities in particular. Indeed, smart infrastructure (SI) development is a prerequisite for smart cities (SCs). However, inadequate funding and expertise for such SI development pose profound challenges that may be partially addressed by mobilising private finance and efficiencies through collaborative public–private partnership (PPP) models. This paper provides a holistic review and analysis of the relevant literature, as a basis for proposing such PPP models for developing SI.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review helped to fulfil the aim of this paper in the first phase of the underlying longer-term study. Authoritative search engines like Scopus and Web of Science indexed articles were reviewed and analysed, 85% of these being journal articles.

Findings

SCs that necessarily include SI are important in overcoming current urban challenges in developing and developed countries. Given shortfalls in traditional procurement and funding models, special PPP models are required for SI development. After identifying the relevant needs, drivers, barriers and challenges in different countries, a general indicative framework is developed to illustrate how the various interacting force fields can be harnessed to develop the envisaged PPP models that can complement non-PPP procurement models.

Originality/value

PPP for SI development is a relatively new, hence, under-researched topic. This desktop review and analysis provide a useful launching pad for the development of SI through overcoming the potential challenges in traditional procurement and financial models.
The potential negative impact of the misuse of Transparency International’s corruption index by the financial services industry
Authors: Baldock Graham
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to raise awareness of the potential misuse of Transparency International’s Corruption Perception Index (CPI) within the financial services industry and outline the potential negative impact this may have on society in certain developing countries.

Design/methodology/approach

This piece of research adopted a mix-method approach across three strands; an online line anonymous survey, consisting of 24 questions, face to face interviews with 10 anti-bribery and corruption compliance officers and three focus group, one in Hong Kong, India and Mexico.

Findings

The results of the research have evidenced that there is a lack of understanding of the methodology used to compile the CPI within the financial services industry and there is a potential adverse impact if misused.

Research limitations/implications

A potential limitation was the fact that the survey was written in English yet was distributed to some countries where English was not the respondents’ first language. As such, it was accepted that there may have been context challenges or a misunderstanding of what the question asked.

Practical implications

By raising awareness of the methodology of the CPI and the advantages and disadvantages of its use, it will enable the financial service industry to better understand the implications of using such an index and the impacts of its misuse.

Social implications

This research highlights that through the potential misuse and lack of understanding of the CPI by the financial services industry this may have an adverse financial, growth and development impact on societies in low ranked countries.

Originality/value

This paper draws on a sub-set of results from a wider piece of research that was undertaken for a Professional Doctorate. This research combined academic knowledge with practitioner research skills, providing an original contribution to knowledge surrounding corruption from a more targeted focal point, particularly with input from anti-bribery and corruption compliance officers in the financial service industry.
Determination of attributes affecting price-performance using fuzzy rule-based systems: online ratings of hotels by travel 2.0 users
Authors: Doğan Seden , Basaran Murat Alper , Kantarci Kemal
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Fuzzy rule-based system (FRBS), a soft computing method used for big data analysis, is used to determine which single hotel attribute or interrelated hotel attributes used in Travel 2.0 data play a role on price–performance (PP).

Design/methodology/approach

FRBS, based on fuzzy set theory, is used using the data set of four- and five-star hotels in the Alanya destination in Turkey collected from HolidayCheck.de website for the period between 2009 and 2016.

Findings

Single attributes do not have an impact on PP. At least two or more attributes are necessary to have an impact on PP. Compensations among attributes that are observed to be leading to PP not to change from their current level. Instead of assuming a linear relationship between hotel attributes and PP, non-linearity should often be assumed. In addition, some hotel attributes do not have an impact on PP until some other attribute reaches a certain level.

Research limitations/implications

The limitations of this research can be grouped under two topics. While the first is related to data, which is German-speaking tourists staying at four- and five-star hotels between 2009 and 2016, the second is the limitation on generalizability. By implementing other types of data related to hotel attributes, new insights can be generated to shed light on different aspects of the relationship between hotel attributes and PP or other measures such as overall evaluation.

Originality/value

A data-driven model called FRBS is constructed using original verbal statements. Novel insights pertinent to relations between hotel attributes and PP have been extracted.
Polychronic knowledge creation in cross-border business models: a sea-like heuristic metaphor
Authors: Chin Tachia , Wang Shouyang , Rowley Chris
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This study aims to characterise an intricate, idiosyncratic knowledge-creating mechanism in the modern digital context of cross-cultural business models (CBM). From an integrative socio-cultural and philosophical perspective, the authors suggest a novel concept of polychronic knowledge creation (PKC) and its metaphor to theorise such a complex phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is conceptual in nature. It critically reviews the literature characterising the flourishing of information and communication technology (ICT)-driven CBMs and clarifies a research gap. The authors draw a dynamic conceptual framework describing how knowledge is created poly-chronically within CBMs, while also articulating and justifying the occurrence of knowledge icebergs as a manifestation of critical cognitive variances and biases in such contexts.

Findings

Building upon existential phenomenology, the authors regard the sea as a parable of the CBM ecosystem and propose the new notion of PKC as a dynamic time-space synthesis and its associated sea-like heuristic metaphor. These elucidate how the intricate interconnectivity of a focal firm with its diverse strategic partners kindles a discursive, multi-path knowledge creation process in ICT-driven CBMs under multiple jurisdictions with manifold cultures.

Research limitations/implications

Implications regarding the role of cross-cultural management in creating new knowledge within CBMs are provided.

Originality/value

The research complements and enriches Nonaka’s (1994) theory and its underlying metaphor “ba” (by incorporating the abstruse yet vital role of culture in the synthesizing process of knowledge creation) to propose the novel ideas of PKC and the sea-like heuristic metaphor in CBMs.
Government investment strategy and platform pricing decisions with the cross-market network externality
Authors: Xu Xiaoping , Dou Guowei , Yu Yugang
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Considering the cross-market network externality, this paper aims to explore the platform’s pricing decisions and its optimal profit under the given government investment, and then investigate the investment decision to improve social responsibility, which is measured by the social welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

When exploring the optimal pricing decisions under the given government investment, extreme value theory and sensitive analysis are used. When investigating the investment level, game theory and optimization method are used. Numerical examples are conducted to further illustrate the results.

Findings

First, after considering the government investment, whether the buyers and the sellers are charged depends on the investment level and the difference of the cross-market network externality (CNC) of the sellers and the buyers. Second, the optimal price on the sellers is decreasing (increasing) in the CNC of the buyers (sellers). The optimal price on the buyers is significantly affected by the investment level. Finally, the government investment is win-win for both the platform and the government, and Chinese Government should invest on the sellers heavily.

Originality/value

This study specifies the role of the government investment on the sellers in determining the platform’s pricing decisions and the improvement of the social responsibility, which is measured by social welfare.
How can leader humor enhance subordinates’ service creativity? The moderator of subordinates’ SFIT and the mediator of role modeling
Authors: Peng Leiqing , Lei Shaohui , Guo Yulang , Qiu Fei
Published: July 2020

Purpose

As an essential personality charm of leaders, humor can bring a series of positive outcomes to both users and receivers. However, there is also evidence that the impact of leaders’ humor (LH) is constrained by individuals, teams and organizational factors. The aim of this research is to investigate the relationship between LH and subordinates’ service creativity. Based on social learning theory and previous literature on LH, this paper identifies role modeling as the mediator and suggests that subordinates’ sensitivity to favorable interpersonal treatment (SFIT) moderates these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to test the proposed moderated mediation model, this study employed hierarchical multiple regression and path analyses with valid data of 348 samples.

Findings

Results revealed that LH positively affects role modeling and service creativity of subordinates, while subordinates' SFIT positively moderates the relationship between LH and subordinates' service creativity via role modeling.

Practical implications

In compliance with these findings, this research suggests that enterprises should pay attention to the role of humor from middle managers and strengthen managers' role modeling through multiple measures to establish a relaxed and harmonious atmosphere in the workplace.

Originality/value

Built on the conceptual framework, this study contributes to the literature on LH and employees’ service creativity by treating role modeling as the mechanism and SFIT as the moderator. This research is one of the first few empirical studies to investigate the relationship between LH and service creativity of service personnel in the service industry.
Measuring the impact of organizational complexity, planning and control on strategic alliances’ performance
Authors: Cardoni Andrea , Tompson George H. (Jody) , Rubino Michele , Taticchi Paolo
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze three characteristics of strategic alliances in Italy to estimate their influence on financial performance. The authors test how alliance complexity, strategic planning and accounting control influence revenue growth, asset growth and EBITDA margin.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses contractual and financial data to test hypothesized relationships in structural equation modelling (SEM) using partial least squares (PLSs).

Findings

This paper highlights that the extent of strategic planning positively influences the growth in assets but not in revenue or EBITDA margin. In addition, the findings of this paper support the idea that the complexity in the alliance is significantly related to the quantity of accounting controls within alliance.

Originality/value

This paper improves existing research on the subject, as it contributes to open the black box of alliances’ internal operations by examining the details of 50 Italian contracts to create a multidimensional profile of each alliance.
Guanfu Salt Farm and Hong Kong in the Song Dynasty (960-1279)
Authors: Kung Cecile
Published: July 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to collect and compile the historical data of Guanfu Salt Farm, officially built by the Song Dynasty (960–1279) within modern Hong Kong territories, to reconstruct its history for the reflection of Hong Kong society of the time.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is largely based on identification and analysis of historical documents, including keyword search on electronic databases and verification with the original sources, with reference to archaeological findings when necessary.

Findings

This paper reconstructs the history of Guanfu Salt Farm based on documentary sources with reference to archaeological findings. English translation of Chinese sources is also provided when necessary.

Originality/value

There has been an absence of systematic compilation of historical data of Hong Kong during the Song Dynasty, which are limited in quantity and scattered across different sources. This paper seeks to fill the vacuum of knowledge about pre-colonial Hong Kong, with a more comprehensive reconstruction of the history of Guanfu Salt Farm.
Big data maturity models for the public sector: a review of state and organizational level models
Authors: Okuyucu Aras , Yavuz Nilay
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Despite several big data maturity models developed for businesses, assessment of big data maturity in the public sector is an under-explored yet important area. Accordingly, the purpose of this study is to identify the big data maturity models developed specifically for the public sector and evaluate two major big data maturity models in that respect: one at the state level and the other at the organizational level.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature search is conducted using Web of Science and Google Scholar to determine big data maturity models explicitly addressing big data adoption by governments, and then two major models are identified and compared: Klievink et al.’s Big Data maturity model and Kuraeva’s Big Data maturity model.

Findings

While Klievink et al.’s model is designed to evaluate Big Data maturity at the organizational level, Kuraeva’s model is appropriate for assessments at the state level. The first model sheds light on the micro-level factors considering the specific data collection routines and requirements of the public organizations, whereas the second one provides a general framework in terms of the conditions necessary for government’s big data maturity such as legislative framework and national policy dimensions (strategic plans and actions).

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature by identifying and evaluating the models specifically designed to assess big data maturity in the public sector. Based on the review, it provides insights about the development of integrated models to evaluate big data maturity in the public sector.
Framework of on-board team effectiveness: a qualitative study of shipping industry
Authors: Jha Suman K.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

Marine experts have recognised the importance of on-board teamwork for a ship’s safe operation. The purpose of the study is to develop a framework of “on-board team effectiveness” as perceived by the seafarers with the help of conceptual categories discovered from the study. It describes and explain how members of floating shipboard team operates in a global environment which is dynamic, complex and full of challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative research design was used to study wherein the grounded theory approach was adopted for data analysis. A purposive sample of 44 Indian seafarers covering all ranks and departments of the shipboard team were selected for the study. Primary data were collected through long interviews and focused group discussions with the respondents. Secondary data were collected through industry periodicals.

Findings

Ten conceptual categories were developed, and their interplay was identified to understand various aspects of shipboard team working in different contexts.

Practical implications

The insights gained from the study can be used to enhance shipboard team’s working and safe operation of the ship.

Originality/value

The study is unique in addressing team effectiveness issues of shipboard teams. Understanding teamwork effectiveness of a culturally diversified shipboard team shall facilitate safe working practices and act as a deterrent to human errors, which causes accidents and incidents.
Trust and performance in business teams: a meta-analysis
Authors: Morrissette Amy M. , Kisamore Jennifer L.
Published: July 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is two-fold. First, the nature of the relationship between team trust and team performance in the business context is determined. Second, both team design (team size and team type) and methodological moderators (source of criterion measure and study date) of the relationship are assessed.

Design/methodology/approach

A random-effects meta-analysis was performed on published and unpublished empirical studies. Subgroup moderator analyses were conducted using Cochran’s Q. Continuous moderator analyses were conducted using meta-regression.

Findings

Data from 55 independent studies (3,671 teams) were pooled. Results indicated a large, positive relationship between team trust and team performance in real business teams. Further analyses indicated that the relationship was significantly moderated by business team type, team size and source of criterion measure.

Research limitations/implications

Results indicate that different team types, sizes and performance criteria should not be treated as equivalent. Results are based on cross-sectional research and can only be generalized to business teams.

Practical implications

Managers should be attentive to trust issues in work teams, as they may portend future performance problems or mirror other organizational issues that affect team performance. Team function and size predict how team trust is related to team performance.

Originality/value

The present study answers a call by Costa et al. (2018) for additional investigation of moderators of the trust-performance relationship in teams using a quantitative review of studies.
Aging shifts mitochondrial dynamics toward fission to promote germline stem cell loss
Authors: Amartuvshin Oyundari , Lin Chi‐Hung , Hsu Shao‐Chun , Kao Shih‐Han , Chen Alvin , Tang Wei‐Chun , Chou Han‐Lin , Chang Dong‐Lin , Hsu Yen‐Yang , Hsiao Bai‐Shiou , Rastegari Elham , Lin Kun‐Yang , Wang Yu‐Ting , Yao Chi‐Kuang , Chen Guang‐Chao , Chen Bi‐Chang , Hsu Hwei‐Jan
Published: July 2020

Changes in mitochondrial dynamics (fusion and fission) are known to occur during stem cell differentiation; however, the role of this phenomenon in tissue aging remains unclear. Here, we report that mitochondrial dynamics are shifted toward fission during aging of Drosophila ovarian germline stem cells (GSCs), and this shift contributes to aging‐related GSC loss. We found that as GSCs age, mitochondrial fragmentation and expression of the mitochondrial fission regulator, Dynamin‐related protein (Drp1), are both increased, while mitochondrial membrane potential is reduced. Moreover, preventing mitochondrial fusion in GSCs results in highly fragmented depolarized mitochondria, decreased BMP stemness signaling, impaired fatty acid metabolism, and GSC loss. Conversely, forcing mitochondrial elongation promotes GSC attachment to the niche. Importantly, maintenance of aging GSCs can be enhanced by suppressing Drp1 expression to prevent mitochondrial fission or treating with rapamycin, which is known to promote autophagy via TOR inhibition. Overall, our results show that mitochondrial dynamics are altered during physiological aging, affecting stem cell homeostasis via coordinated changes in stemness signaling, niche contact, and cellular metabolism. Such effects may also be highly relevant to other stem cell types and aging‐induced tissue degeneration.
Ventral striatum regulates behavioral response to ethanol and MDMA combination
Authors: Ben Hamida Sami , Lecourtier Lucas , Loureiro Michaël , Cosquer Brigitte , Tracqui Antoine , Simmoneaux Valérie , Nehlig Astrid , Jones Byron C. , Pereira de Vasconcelos Anne , Cassel Jean‐Christophe
Published: July 2020

Our previous studies consistently showed that MDMA‐induced locomotor hyperactivity is dramatically increased by coadministration of ethanol (EtOH) in rats, indicating possible potentiation of MDMA abuse liability. Thus, we aimed to identify the brain region(s) and neuropharmacological substrates involved in the pharmacodynamics of this potentiation.

We first showed that potentiation of locomotor activity by the combination of ip administration of EtOH (1.5 g/kg) and MDMA (6.6 mg/kg) is delay sensitive and maximal when both drugs are injected simultaneously. Then, we used the 2‐deoxyglucose quantitative autoradiography technique to assess the impact of EtOH, MDMA, or their combination on local cerebral metabolic rates for glucose (CMRglcs). We showed a specific metabolic activation in the ventral striatum (VS) under MDMA + EtOH versus MDMA or EtOH alone. We next tested if reversible (tetrodotoxin, TTX) or permanent (6‐hydrodoxyopamine, 6‐OHDA) lesion of the VS could affect locomotor response to MDMA and MDMA + EtOH. Finally, we blocked dopamine D1 or glutamate NMDA receptors in the VS and measured the effects of MDMA and MDMA + EtOH on locomotor activity. We showed that bilateral reversible inactivation (TTX) or permanent lesion (6‐OHDA) of the VS prevented the potentiation by EtOH of MDMA‐induced locomotor hyperactivity. Likewise, blockade of D1 or NMDA receptors in the VS also reduced the potentiation of MDMA locomotor activity by EtOH. These data indicate that dopamine D1 and glutamate NMDA receptor‐driven mechanisms in the VS play a key role in the pharmacodynamics of EtOH‐induced potentiation of the locomotor effects of MDMA.