bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular basis of hemoglobin adaptation in the high-flying bar-headed goose
Authors: Natarajan Chandrasekhar , Jendroszek Agnieszka , Kumar Amit , Weber Roy E. , Tame Jeremy R. H. , Fago Angela , Storz Jay F.
Published: November 2017

During adaptive phenotypic evolution, some selectively fixed mutations may be directly causative and others may be purely compensatory. The relative contribution of these two classes of mutation depends on the form and prevalence of mutational pleiotropy. To investigate the nature of adaptive substitutions and their pleiotropic effects, we used a protein engineering approach to characterize the molecular basis of hemoglobin (Hb) adaptation in the bar-headed goose (Anser indicus), a hypoxia-tolerant species renowned for its trans-Himalayan migratory flights. We synthesized and tested all possible mutational intermediates in the line of descent connecting the wildtype bar-headed goose genotype with the most recent common ancestor of bar-headed goose and its lowland relatives. Site-directed mutagenesis experiments revealed effect-size distributions of causative mutations and biophysical mechanisms underlying changes in function. Trade-offs between alternative functional properties revealed the importance of compensating deleterious pleiotropic effects in the adaptive evolution of protein function.
A method to keep the excitation light sheet in focus in selective plane illumination microscopy
Authors: Gao Liang
Published: November 2017

Keeping the excitation light sheet in focus is critical in selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) to ensure its 3D imaging ability. Unfortunately, an effective method that can be used in SPIM on general biological specimens to find the axial position of the excitation light sheet and keep it in focus is barely available. Here, we present a method to solve the problem. We investigate its mechanism and demonstrate its performance on a lattice light sheet microscope.
Discovery of noncanonical translation initiation sites through mass spectrometric analysis of protein N termini
Authors: Na Chan Hyun , Barbhuiya Mustafa A. , Kim Min-Sik , Verbruggen Steven , Eacker Stephen M. , Pletnikova Olga , Troncoso Juan C. , Halushka Marc K. , Menschaert Gerben , Overall Christopher M. , Pandey Akhilesh
Published: November 2017

Translation initiation generally occurs at AUG codons in eukaryotes, although it has been shown that non-AUG or noncanonical translation initiation can also occur. However, the evidence for noncanonical translation initiation sites (TISs) is largely indirect and based on ribosome profiling (Ribo-seq) studies. Here, using a strategy specifically designed to enrich N termini of proteins, we demonstrate that many human proteins are translated at noncanonical TISs. The large majority of TISs that mapped to 5′ untranslated regions were noncanonical and led to N-terminal extension of annotated proteins or translation of upstream small open reading frames (uORF). It has been controversial whether the amino acid corresponding to the start codon is incorporated at the TIS or methionine is still incorporated. We found that methionine was incorporated at almost all noncanonical TISs identified in this study. Comparison of the TISs determined through mass spectrometry with ribosome profiling data revealed that about two-thirds of the novel annotations were indeed supported by the available ribosome profiling data. Sequence conservation across species and a higher abundance of noncanonical TISs than canonical ones in some cases suggests that the noncanonical TISs can have biological functions. Overall, this study provides evidence of protein translation initiation at noncanonical TISs and argues that further studies are required for elucidation of functional implications of such noncanonical translation initiation.
ABCA4 midigenes reveal the full splice spectrum of all reported noncanonical splice site variants in Stargardt disease
Authors: Sangermano Riccardo , Khan Mubeen , Cornelis Stéphanie S. , Richelle Valerie , Albert Silvia , Garanto Alejandro , Elmelik Duaa , Qamar Raheel , Lugtenberg Dorien , van den Born L. Ingeborgh , Collin Rob W.J. , Cremers Frans P.M.
Published: November 2017

Stargardt disease is caused by variants in the ABCA4 gene, a significant part of which are noncanonical splice site (NCSS) variants. In case a gene of interest is not expressed in available somatic cells, small genomic fragments carrying potential disease-associated variants are tested for splice abnormalities using in vitro splice assays. We recently discovered that when using small minigenes lacking the proper genomic context, in vitro results do not correlate with splice defects observed in patient cells. We therefore devised a novel strategy in which a bacterial artificial chromosome was employed to generate midigenes, splice vectors of varying lengths (up to 11.7 kb) covering almost the entire ABCA4 gene. These midigenes were used to analyze the effect of all 44 reported and three novel NCSS variants on ABCA4 pre-mRNA splicing. Intriguingly, multi-exon skipping events were observed, as well as exon elongation and intron retention. The analysis of all reported NCSS variants in ABCA4 allowed us to reveal the nature of aberrant splicing events and to classify the severity of these mutations based on the residual fraction of wild-type mRNA. Our strategy to generate large overlapping splice vectors carrying multiple exons, creating a toolbox for robust and high-throughput analysis of splice variants, can be applied to all human genes.
Crystal structure of poly[[di-μ3-acetato-tetraaquabis(μ2-cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylato)dilanthanum(III)] dihydrate]
Authors: Drisya R. , Mol U. S. Soumya , Chandran P. R. Satheesh , Sithambaresan M. , Sudarsankumar M. R.
Published: November 2017

The title compound, {[La2(CH3COO)2(C8H10O4)2(H2O)4]·2H2O}nor [La2(ac)2(e,a-cis-1,4-chdc)2(H2O)4]·2H2O, whereacis acetate and 1,4-chdc is cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylate anion, is a binuclear lanthanum(III) complex. Each metal atom is decacoordinated by four O atoms from two distinct 1,4-chdc2−ligands, four O atoms from three acetate groups and two O atoms from coordinated water molecules to form a distorted bicapped square-antiprismatic geometry. Two non-coordinated water molecules are also present in the formula unit. The most remarkable feature of this compound is that it possesses a onlycisconformation for cyclohexane-1,4-dicarboxylic acid, although the raw material consists of a mixture ofcisandtransisomers. The μ3-η2:η2coordination mode of the bridging acetate group and the flexible dicarboxylate fragments of 1,4-chdc2−results in the formation of infinite two-dimensional lanthanide–carboxylate layers within the crystal structure. The directionality of strong intermolecular O—H...O and weak C—H...O interactions provides robustness to the layers, which leads to the construction of a three-dimensional supramolecular network. The crystal studied was refined as a two-component twin.
Formation and structural characterization of a europium(II) mono(scorpionate) complex and a sterically crowded pyrazabole
Authors: Liebing Phil , Kühling Marcel , Takats Josef , Hilfert Liane , Edelmann Frank T.
Published: November 2017

The reaction of EuI2(THF)2with potassium hydrotris(3,5-diisopropylpyrazolyl)borate (K[HB(3,5-iPr2pz)3] (= KTpiPr2, pz = pyrazolyl) in a molar ratio of 1:1.5 resulted in extensive ligand fragmentation and formation of the europium(II) mono(scorpionate) complex bis(3,5-diisopropyl-1H-pyrazole)[hydrotris(3,5-diisopropylpyrazolyl)borato]iodidoeuropium(II), [Eu(C27H46BN6)I(C9H16N2)2] or (TpiPr2)(3,5-iPr2pzH)2EuIII,1, in high yield (78%). As a typical by-product, small amounts of the sterically crowded pyrazabole derivativetrans-4,8-bis(3,5-diisopropylpyrazol-1-yl)-1,3,5,7-tetraisopropylpyrazabole, C36H62B2H8ortrans-{(3,5-iPr2pz)HB(μ-3,5-iPr2pz)}2,2, were formed. Both title compounds have been structurally characterized through single-crystal X-ray diffraction. In1, two isopropyl groups are each disordered over two orientations with occupancy ratios of 0.574 (10):0.426 (10) and 0.719 (16):0.281 (16). In2, one isopropyl group is similarly disordered, occupancy ratio 0.649 (9):0.351 (9).
6-Methyl-1,4-bis[(pyridin-2-yl)methyl]quinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione
Authors: Zouitini Ayman , Kandri Rodi Youssef , Ouazzani Chahdi Fouad , Jasinski Jerry P. , Kaur Manpreet , Essassi El Mokhtar
Published: November 2017

The title compound, C21H18N4O2, crystallizes with one independent molecule in the asymmetric unit. The 6-methylquinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione unit is essentially planar. The dihedral angles between the mean plane of the 6-methylquinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione ring and its pendant pyridin-2-yl rings are 85.1 (3) and 73.8 (4)°. The pyridin-2-yl rings are inclined pointing away from the 6-methylquinoxaline-2,3(1H,4H)-dione ring system. In the crystal, molecules are linked by weak C—H...O interactions, forming a three-dimensional network structure.
Experimental and theoretical studies on corrosion inhibition performance of an environmentally friendly drug on the corrosion of copper in acid media
Authors: P.E. Kumar , M. Govindaraju , V. Sivakumar
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the corrosion inhibition performance of an eco-friendly drug clozapine on the corrosion of copper in 1.0 M nitric acid and 0.5 M sulfuric acid solutions.

Design/methodology/approach

The corrosion inhibition nature of inhibitor molecule was evaluated by weight loss, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization studies. An attempt was made to correlate the molecular properties of neutral and protonated forms of inhibitor molecule using quantum chemical calculations. The effect of temperature on the corrosion inhibition efficiency was also studied using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. The potential of zero charge was determined to explain the mechanism of corrosion inhibition.

Findings

The studies on corrosion inhibition performance of clozapine showed that it has good corrosion inhibition efficiency on the corrosion of copper in 1.0 M nitric acid and 0.5 M sulfuric acid solutions. The adsorption of clozapine molecules onto the copper surface obeyed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The value of free energy of adsorption calculated is very close to −40 kJmol−1, indicating that the adsorption is through electrostatic coulombic attraction and chemisorption. The decrease in the value of energy of activation with the addition of inhibitor also shows the chemisorption of the inhibitor on the metal surface. The potential of zero charge and quantum chemical studies confirmed that the protonated molecules also get involved in the corrosion inhibition process through physisorption.

Originality/value

The present work indicates that clozapine can act as a good corrosion inhibitor for the corrosion of copper in acid media.
Corrosion inhibition properties of SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite coating on carbon steel 178
Authors: Abdollahi Behnam , Afzali Daryoush , Hassani Zahra
Published: November 2017

Purpose

SiO2and SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposites were coated by sol–gel dipping method on carbon steel 178 (178 CS). Nanostructure and phase properties of nanocomposite coating were characterized using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared studies. Electrochemical polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) tests were used to study the corrosion behavior of 178 CS that was coated with SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite and SiO2coating in 3.5 per cent NaCl solution. The results indicated that SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite coating performed better in terms of corrosion resistance compared with SiO2coating. The corrosion resistance of SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite coating could be increased significantly in by approximately three and seven times of that of SiO2coating and bare 178 CS, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

SiO2and SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposites were coated using sol–gel dipping method on carbon steel 178. Electrochemical polarization and EIS tests have been used to study the corrosion behavior of 178 CS that was coated with SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite and SiO2coating in 3.5 per cent NaCl solution.

Findings

Results indicated that SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite coating performed better in terms of corrosion resistance compared with SiO2coating. The corrosion resistance of SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite coating could be increased significantly in by approximately three and seven times of that of SiO2coating and bare 178 CS, respectively.

Originality/value

The SiO2-ZrO2nanocomposite coating film showed significant improvement in corrosion resistance of 178 CS. The highest polarization resistance of the nanocomposite coating film was 10,600 Ω/cm2from SiO2-0.2 ZrO2.
Do tourists’ gastronomic experiences differ within the same geographical region? A comparative study of two Mediterranean destinations
Authors: Akdag Gurkan , Guler Ozan , Dalgic Ali , Benli Sercan , Cakici A. Celil
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discover the common and differentiating food factors that affect tourists’ gastronomy satisfaction by comparing tourists’ gastronomic experiences at two culinary destinations in the Mediterranean region.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 396 usable questionnaires were collected using a convenience sampling method from Cordoba (Spain) and Hatay (Turkey). The data were analysed through descriptive and multivariate analysis methods, including frequency analysis, multiple independent samples t-tests, χ2 analysis and multiple regression analyses.

Findings

The results indicate that both of the destinations primarily attract existential type gastronomic tourists; however, they also attract recreational and diversionary types of tourist, particularly in Cordoba. From the perspective of Mediterranean cuisine, food quality and traditional gastronomy were determined to be common crucial factors for tourists’ food consumption satisfaction, which outweighs the effects of price, facilities and atmosphere. In addition, service and hospitality and innovation and new tastes in the dishes are the significant factors; however, factors vary according to the destination.

Originality/value

This study makes a significant contribution to the field food tourism by identifying common significant and insignificant and differentiating food factors that affect tourists’ gastronomic satisfaction in culinary destinations within the same geographical region. The results have the potential to provide a broader perspective for destination marketers and culinary establishments.
Asymmetric price transmission in the Chinese pork and pig market
Authors: Dong Xiaoxia , Brown Colin , Waldron Scott , Zhang Jing
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze price transmission in the Chinese pork market between 1994 and 2016 and examine any incidence and causes of asymmetric price transmission.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach uses threshold autoregressive models, asymmetric error correction models and autoregressive moving average models to examine the price transmission using monthly pig and pork prices from 1994 to 2016.

Findings

While a symmetric price transmission between pork and pig prices was identified for the period between June 1994 and June 2007, an asymmetric price transmission response between pork and pig prices was found for the period July 2007 to June 2016. Key factors behind the asymmetric price transmission include the chicken price and China’s provisional purchasing and stockpiling policy which is having a counter-productive impact on prices.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature by examining price transmission in two different periods: 1994 to 2007 where prices are lower and more stable; and 2007 to 2016 where prices are higher and volatile. The paper examines the impact of production and market policies on price transmission in the Chinese pork and pig market, with several policy implications.
Local food in China: a viable destination attraction
Authors: Chen Qian , Huang Rong
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The subject of food has been well researched by academics, and is often employed by tourism destination practitioners. However, a review of relevant literature indicates that there is a lack of research reported and written in English on the importance of food in Chinese local regional development. The purpose of this paper is to assess the potential of local food to act as a destination attraction, and contribute to the development of local regions in China, by examining the food-related motivation, involvement, satisfaction, and behavioural intentions of Chinese domestic tourists.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using interviewer-completed questionnaire from a sample of 1,353 domestic tourists at eight destinations geographically spread or in one region in China.

Findings

The results reveal three types of food-related behaviour (which are described and evaluated below). While gender is seen to be significant, other demographical factors, such as ages and educational levels, do not appear to influence the level of interests and involvement in local food for Chinese domestic tourists.

Originality/value

This study is a contribution towards assessing the potential for using local food as a tool to develop local regions in China, and to obtain a better understanding of the market segmentation of Chinese local food tourists. It assists in identifying potential food tourists towards whom marketing should be addressed.
Dynamic technical inefficiency and industrial concentration in the Indonesian food and beverages industry
Authors: Setiawan Maman , Oude Lansink Alfons G.J.M.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relation between industrial concentration and technical inefficiency in the Indonesian food and beverages industry using a dynamic performance measure (dynamic technical inefficiency) that accounts for the presence of adjustment costs.

Design/methodology/approach

This research uses panel data of 44 subsectors in the Indonesian food and beverages industry for the period 1980-2014. The dynamic input directional distance function is applied to estimate the dynamic technical inefficiency. Further, the Granger causality between industrial concentration and dynamic technical inefficiency is tested using a dynamic panel data model. A bootstrap truncated regression model is finally applied to estimate the relation between industrial concentration and dynamic technical inefficiency based on the results from the Granger causality test.

Findings

The results show that the Indonesian food and beverages industry has a high dynamic technical inefficiency. Investigation of the causality of the relation shows that industrial concentration has a positive effect on dynamic technical inefficiency at the subsector level, with no reversed causality. The results suggest that the quiet life hypothesis applies to the Indonesian food and beverages industry.

Originality/value

The literature investigating the relation between industrial concentration and performance relies on static measures of performance, such as technical efficiency. Static measures provide an incorrect metric of the firms’ performance in the presence of adjustment costs associated with investment. Therefore, this research has a contribution in measuring dynamic technical inefficiency that accounts for the presence of the adjustment cost as well as its relation with industrial concentration in the Indonesian food and beverages industry.
Comparative appraisal of Kreis methods for the assessment of incipient rancidity in ghee
Authors: Vaghela Keyur D. , Chaudhary Bhavesh N. , Mehta Bhavbhuti Manojbhai , Darji V.B. , Aparnathi K.D.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

There are various Kreis tests reported in the literature with wide variations in the procedure. The purpose of this paper is to select the most suitable and reliable method for the rancidity evaluation in ghee.

Design/methodology/approach

Ghee samples were prepared from butter by the direct cream method. They were assessed for early-stage oxidative deterioration by four Kreis tests in an accelerated storage trial at intervals of 48 h. The amount of ghee samples, amount of reagents (chloroform, 30 percent trichloroacetic acid, 1 percent phloroglucinol, and ethanol), incubation temperature and duration were different in the four tests. For each method, the ghee samples were also monitored for changes in flavor at intervals of 48 h by sensory evaluation. Relationships among the Kreis values determined by the four different Kreis tests and flavor scores were established using a correlation analysis.

Findings

The correlation coefficient of the Kreis values determined by different Kreis tests was in decreasing order of: Kreis test-2 (−0.904) > Kreis test-4 (−0.792) > Kreis test-3 (−0.648) > Kreis test-1 (−0.469). Thus, among the four different Kreis tests, Kreis Test-2 reported by Pool and Prater (1945) was found to be more sensitive and more consistent, and have the highest coefficient of correlation (−0.904) with flavor score of ghee during storage at 80±2°C.

Practical implications

The finding of this study will be useful for the selection of an appropriate and reliable Kreis test that can be used for detecting rancidity in ghee at an incipient stage. The development of rancidity in the ghee leads to formation of off-flavor and such an oxidized product is not accepted by the consumer; this leads to economic loss to the manufacturer. Detection of traces of rancidity at an early stage provides an opportunity for industry personnel to take suitable control measures and/or make decisions regarding utilization of the product.

Originality/value

The use of a reliable Kreis test that detects traces of rancidity in a ghee can be very useful for enabling suitable measures to be taken to prevent further oxidative deterioration or to dispose of the ghee as early as possible.
The role of Indian school canteens in nutrition promotion
Authors: Rathi Neha , Riddell Lynn , Worsley Anthony
Published: November 2017

Purpose

A school canteen can serve as an important setting for nutrition and health promotion. The purpose of this paper is to describe secondary school students’ perceptions of Indian school canteens.

Design/methodology/approach

Convenience sampling informed the recruitment of 1,026 year 9 students from nine private schools in Kolkata, India, and data were collected through self-completion of paper-based questionnaires. Frequencies and χ2 analyses were computed.

Findings

The school children reported that energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods like French fries (90.4 per cent), pizza (79.5 per cent) and cakes (69.2 per cent) were frequently available in the school canteens. However, only a few students (10.2 per cent) acknowledged the availability of nutritious foods like fruits. Only a small proportion of students were content with the nutritional quality of food supplied in the canteens (3.6 per cent), the cost of food (8.7 per cent) and availability of fresh foods like fruits (5.5 per cent). The provision of healthy foods in the school canteen was supported by two-thirds of the respondents (65.9 per cent); however, only a small proportion (18.3 per cent) supported the restriction of fried foods in school canteens.

Practical implications

These findings underscore the need for the design and implementation of healthy school canteen policies to foster healthy eating habits among Indian adolescents.

Originality/value

This is the first cross-sectional survey to investigate the views of adolescents regarding school food services in the Indian context.
Competitiveness of Greek virgin olive oil in the main destination markets
Authors: Klonaris Stathis , Agiangkatzoglou Andromachi
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the competitiveness of the Greek virgin olive oil in the main destination markets (German, Italian, UK and US market).

Design/methodology/approach

In order to achieve the aim, in the first stage the Revealed Comparative Advantage (RCA2) Index was employed showing that Greek virgin olive oil has a comparative advantage over the other suppliers (mainly Italy and Spain) in the markets under examination. In the second stage, the estimations of an import demand system for each market were estimated.

Findings

Results demonstrate clearly the competitive advantage of Greek virgin olive oil in the German market but not so clear in the rest of the markets. A strategic shift to export high-quality branded virgin olive oil instead of bulk seems necessity, in order the Greek virgin olive oil to dominate to the international markets.

Originality/value

Though there are similar works, especially for Spanish olive oil, there is no analogous research work for the Greek olive oil.
Framing the local food experience: a case study of a Finnish pop-up restaurant
Authors: Aaltojärvi Inari , Kontukoski Maija , Hopia Anu
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse how Finnish customers at the pop-up restaurant event Trip to Province, which took place in South Ostrobothnia, Finland, make sense of the locality.

Design/methodology/approach

The data consist of 3 group interviews and 18 respondents, whose responses were analysed using a frame analysis.

Findings

Locality is discussed in the context of three frames: the immediate surroundings, the Finnish national ethos and the global discourses of food enthusiasts. The results show that, in terms of local food events, locality comprises not only food, but also place, people and cultural context conveying national and global elements.

Research limitations/implications

The data of this study are limited in size, and limited to the Finnish context.

Practical implications

Local food events could be promoted to locals and nearby residents, not just to tourists. With the design of the eating environment (music and visuals), the local food experience can be enhanced.

Social implications

Local food events strengthen the residents’ regional identity.

Originality/value

The research setting for this paper is original; the study takes part in the scarce discussion about gastronomic tourism in Finland. The study broadens the view that local food is just about food; regarding local food events, locality also entails place, people, nationality and globality.
Grey-based scorecard model for opting fruit supply bazaar locality under advanced chain of macro-micro parameter
Authors: Sahu Anoop Kumar , Sahu Nitin Kumar , Sahu Atul Kumar , Narang Harendra Kumar , Rajput Mridul Singh
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In the presented research, the authors have conducted the literature review and organised real interviews of fruit retailers (FRs) to construct the advanced hierarchical structural (AHS) chain of macro-micro parameters for measuring the performances of defined fruit supply bazaars (FSBs). Apart from this, the purpose of this paper is to develop the grey set-based scorecard model for solving the proposed AHS chain of macro-micro parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The performance of FSBs is linked with the supply of fruits towards clients under a feasible rate, which circuitously depends upon the evaluation of the economic locality of FSBs. The authors developed an advanced hierarchical structure of macro-micro parameters via a literature survey and considered these parameters based on the sampling score of FRs corresponding to select feasible FSBs/alternatives. Furthermore, the authors developed a grey set-based scorecard model for undertaking the incomplete information of FRs against the hierarchical structure.

Findings

It is found that the work is well suited for FRs as they can measure the performances of defined FSBs in accordance with their own opinions under the proposed AHS of macro-micro parameters. Apart from this, the work is useful for benchmarking the vegetable supply bazaars (VSBs) on the replacement of AHS. The proposed hierarchical structure with a grey-based scorecard model is flexible in its nature and can undertake more than 1,000 macro-micro parameters and FRs to access potential decision.

Originality/value

The conducted research work has a precise value for evaluating the economic FSB locality. The overall performance scores of considered FSB localities are computed as (∂1)=1.991, (∂2)=2.567 and (∂3)=2.855, where (∂3) is found to be more significant than available FSBs. This work can be used for opting the economic locality of VSB too.
Service climate: how does it affect turnover intention?
Authors: Kang Hee Jung (Annette) , Busser James , Choi Hyung-Min
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to develop a conceptual model of service climate in hospitality, which tests its relationship with psychological capital (PsyCap), quality of work life (QWL) and turnover intention.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected among hotel employees by using an intercept approach and Qualtrics online survey system. Structural equation modeling examined the hypothesized relationships among the constructs in the conceptual model.

Findings

Service climate showed a positive relationship with PsyCap and QWL, and PsyCap partially mediated this relationship. Employees’ level of PsyCap had a powerful impact on QWL. Specifically, employee QWL was a critical mediator (full mediation) between service climate and turnover intention. Finally, PsyCap and QWL showed combined mediating effects between service climate and turnover intention.

Research limitations/implications

This study extends the service climate literature in hospitality by offering a new conceptual model representing employees’ perceptions of service climate that influence their willingness to leave the organization with the mediating effects of PsyCap and QWL based on the theory of work adjustment.

Practical implications

The theory of work adjustment provides a deeper understanding of how employees’ perception of service climate affects their turnover intention in hospitality, based on a sample of hotel employees.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the importance of service climate in understanding the turnover intention of hotel employees.
The evolution of the customer delight construct
Authors: Torres Edwin N. , Ronzoni Giulio
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The present research aims to summarize the literature on customer delight, identify trends and debates, create an instrument to measure delight and propose directions for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive review of the literature has been undertaken. Flowing from a variety of conceptual, qualitative and quantitative articles, operational measures have been identified, and an instrument to measure customer delight has been proposed.

Findings

Past research on customer delight identified various emotions that trigger delight, as well as human needs, traits and behaviors associated with delightful experiences, and features of the service experience commonly related to delight. On the basis of these findings, the researchers have developed an instrument to measure customer delight.

Practical implications

The proposed instrument enables managers to measure customer delight in various service settings. Measuring and attaining higher levels of customer delight can help generate greater loyalty as compared to customer satisfaction.

Originality/value

The authors unify the conceptualization and measurement of customer delight and create a new instrument to measure the construct. Similarities and debates in the past research are identified, and directions for the future of customer delight are presented. Future studies can further test and validate the presented instrument in various service industries.
Star power: the evolution of celebrity endorsement research
Authors: Yang Wan
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to summarize the celebrity endorsement literature to identify trends and challenges related to key research areas. Based on a critical review of existing literature, this paper presents several recommendations regarding potential future directions of celebrity endorsement research in hospitality and tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a critical review of literature from both the general marketing and hospitality and tourism fields.

Findings

Over the past decade, significant progress has been made in hospitality and tourism celebrity endorsement research, with several new constructs being revealed and tested. However, the extant findings are rather mixed and inconclusive because industry features have not been systematically examined and study contexts and samples have varied widely. To advance the hospitality and tourism celebrity endorsement research, an extended meaning transfer model with six propositions is proposed. Several areas for future research are also discussed.

Practical implications

This paper offers up-to-date findings on celebrity endorsement to practitioners, and the proposed extended meaning transfer model can provide marketers useful guidelines on selecting appropriate endorsers for their products/brands.

Originality/value

In previous studies, scholars mainly used one or more of the three types of celebrity endorser selection models and only examined specific antecedents of effective endorsement. To date, researchers have not yet conceptualized a modified model that captures the unique features of the hospitality and tourism industry and reconciles the mixed findings in the extant literature. This paper proposes an extended meaning transfer model to explain the endorser selection process, provides a good foundational understanding of the extant celebrity endorsement research and makes several recommendations regarding future research directions for hospitality and tourism scholars with implications for practitioners.
Customer experience management in hospitality
Authors: Kandampully Jay , Zhang Tingting(Christina) , Jaakkola Elina
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In the contemporary hospitality industry, superior customer experiences are essential in gaining customer loyalty and achieving a competitive advantage. However, limited research addresses this subject. The purpose of this study is to advance scholarly research on customer experience management (CEM) in the hospitality field by providing a comprehensive overview of the key elements of CEM, a framework for managing customer experience and a rich agenda for research.

Design/methodology/approach

An extensive literature review produces a comprehensive overview of the existing knowledge of CEM. A synthesis of previous literature reveals the need for additional, contemporary information sources. The study is, therefore, supplemented by invited commentaries on CEM from senior scholars and hospitality managers.

Findings

The proposed model takes a holistic perspective on managing a positive customer experience, through collaboration among marketing, operations, design, human resources and strategy, in association with technology and social media.

Research limitations/implications

The literature review and commentaries from leading experts reveal six areas for further research on CEM in the hospitality industry.

Originality/value

This study provides a comprehensive, systematic review of CEM literature and detailed understanding of the mechanisms for managing customer experiences in the hospitality industry. It integrates state-of-the-art CEM knowledge in the generic business context, along with principles of hospitality management, and advances CEM research by emphasizing the need for collaboration among marketing, operations and human resources.
Analytic perspectives on online purchasing in hotels: a review of literature and research directions
Authors: Morosan Cristian , Bowen John T.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

As scholarly research in online purchasing increases in size and scope, understanding the manner in which consumers engage during online purchasing in hotels is critical. The purpose of this study is to provide an analysis of the current online purchasing research pertaining to the hotel industry.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis was conducted of 85 peer-reviewed articles published between 2006 and 2016 in hospitality and tourism journals to uncover the most critical aspects of online purchasing in hotels. Keyword searches and specific search parameters (e.g. literature time frame and locus of search) guided the review of the articles selected for the analysis.

Findings

This study recognizes that the discrete transaction per se represents the focal element in the hospitality scholarly research in online purchasing. It also recognizes the importance of the overall encompassing hospitality experience in creating and appropriating value for all stakeholders. Finally, the review found a strong orientation toward self-reported survey data as indicative of online transactions and the steps that precede them online.

Research limitations/implications

The study recognizes the present focus on discrete transactions and recommends expanding the focus to tap into more comprehensive purchasing processes that are mediated by technology.

Practical implications

The analysis presented here offers practitioners insight into the value chain member and consumer behaviors that could be feasibly converted into actionable managerial practices.

Originality/value

In contrast to the reviews discussing online purchasing, this study provides a unique broad analytical perspective on the relationships among buyers, sellers, products, retail interfaces and consumer decision processes that characterize the hotel online purchasing environment, as reflected in the past 10 years of hospitality and tourism literature.
Lean readiness – the case of the European pharmaceutical manufacturing industry
Authors: Garza-Reyes Jose Arturo , Betsis Ioannis E. , Kumar Vikas , Radwan Al-Shboul Moh’d Anwer
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the quality practices of European pharmaceutical manufacturers to determine the level of readiness of this industrial sector to implement and/or sustain lean manufacturing (LM).

Design/methodology/approach

An assessment framework developed by Al-Najemet al.(2013) was adapted to evaluate how ready European pharmaceutical manufacturers are to implement and/or sustain LM. Therefore, the lean readiness (LR) level of these organisations was assessed through six quality practices related to LM. These included: processes, planning and control, human resources, top management and leadership, customer relations, and supplier relations. One research question and three hypotheses were formulated and tested using a combination of descriptive statistics and non-parametric Mann-Whitney tests. Data were collected through a survey questionnaire distributed to 310 European pharmaceutical manufacturers and responded by 37 of these organisations.

Findings

Overall, the results of this study indicate an inadequate level of LR for the participating firms. Simultaneously, it was concluded that factors such as company size, type of relationships with suppliers and ISO 9000 certification do not have an effect on the quality practices, and hence LR level, of European pharmaceutical manufacturing organisations.

Practical implications

This study provides crucial information regarding the LR level of European pharmaceutical manufacturers, which can now be aware of the areas in their practices that require further improvement towards a successful lean journey. Simultaneously, organisations in the pharmaceutical sector that intend to implement LM can consider the results of this study and evaluate their readiness level. Managers can, therefore, refer to this research and use it as a platform to take better decisions regarding what quality aspects of their operations need to be enhanced to successfully deploy or sustain a lean strategy.

Originality/value

This research is one of the very few studies that have focussed on evaluating whether the European pharmaceutical manufacturing industry is ready to successfully implement or sustain LM. Therefore, this research expands the limited existent body of knowledge of LM in this industry.
The effect of oil shocks and cyclicality in hiding Indian twin deficits
Authors: Goyal Ashima , Kumar Abhishek
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to estimate the relationship between the current account (CA) and fiscal deficit (FD), and the real exchange rate for India, for the managed float period 1996 Q2 to 2015 Q4, after controlling for output growth and oil shocks. It also examines the cyclicality of the CA, the size of each shock, and assesses whether aggregate demand, forward-looking smoothing, or supply shocks dominate outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use several variants of structural vector autoregression (SVAR), implemented with quarterly Indian data, to control for effects of oil prices, and the output cycle, and then see how FD shocks affect the current account deficit (CAD) and the real exchange rate. For robustness, the authors tried different identifications, changed variable definitions, added new variables, or substituted with other variables. The cyclicality issue is addressed by examining the effect of growth shocks. The relative size of each shock is assessed through co-movement decompositions of the forecast errors. Responses to shocks help identify dominant influences on India’s CAD.

Findings

The CAD is found to be countercyclical. A FD shock raises the CAD, but high impact growth shocks and large variance oil shocks lead to overall divergence of the deficits. There is some support for the aggregate demand channel, but it is moderated by supply shocks and compositional effects. Consumption is sticky rather than forward-looking.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature by including supply shocks, compositional effects, cyclicality, real interest and exchange rate in a theoretically and empirically consistent way for the analysis of twin deficits. The large empirical literature on twin deficits in EMs has not yet done this. There is no study using quarterly data in an SVAR allowing the dynamic relationship between the variables to be explored. The extensions bring in the supply side and compositional effects qualify the working of both the channels, with empirical exercises supporting theoretical predictions.
The more connected, the better? Impact of connectedness on volatility and price discovery in the Korean financial sector
Authors: Jeong DeokJong , Park Sunyoung
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically analyze the effect of the increasing connectedness among financial institutions in the Korean financial market, as it affects the market microstructure in the stock market. Thus this work, first, analyzes the trend and characteristics of connectedness in the Korean financial sector. This work then demonstrates the impacts of connectedness on volatility and price discovery in the stock market.

Design/methodology/approach

The entire Korean financial sector is analyzed from January 1990 to July 2015, including the periods of the 1997 Asian crisis and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis. This paper quantifies the connectedness between financial institutions using network methodology. Densely connectedness specifically refers to the cases in which a node experiences strong-lagged return spillover from and/or to itself.

Findings

Connectedness is established as an important determinant of stock price discovery. This paper illustrates that connectedness increases on significant economic events such as the 1997 Asian crisis and the 2007/2008 global financial crisis. Furthermore, this paper demonstrates that the more densely connected a particular financial institution, the more volatile the stock price and the less accurate the stock price quality.

Research limitations/implications

Understanding the financial system from a network perspective has been on the rise after the 2007/2008 global financial crisis. This work helps regulators and policy makers understand the full implications of introducing new policies that can more closely connect financial institutions.

Originality/value

This paper precisely captures financial institutions’ connectedness by including all types of financial institutions at the micro level. Additionally, this paper links connectedness to market microstructure in the stock market.
Free‐living chemoautotrophic and particle‐attached heterotrophic prokaryotes dominate microbial assemblages along a pelagic redox gradient
Authors: Suter Elizabeth A. , Pachiadaki Maria , Taylor Gordon T. , Astor Yrene , Edgcomb Virginia P.
Published: November 2017

Using the anoxic Cariaco Basin as a natural laboratory, particle association of bacterial and archaeal taxa was assessed by iTag sequencing and qPCR gene assays of samples spanning an oxic–anoxic–euxinic gradient. A total of 10%–12% of all bacterial and archaeal cells were found in the particle‐associated (PA) fraction, operationally defined as prokaryotes captured on 2.7 µm membranes. Both redox condition and size fraction segregated bacterial taxa. Archaeal taxa varied according to redox conditions, but were similar between size fractions. Taxa putatively associated with chemoautotrophic sulfur oxidation and nitrification dominated the free‐living (FL) fraction throughout the oxycline (< 1–120 µM O2) and upper anoxic layer. Bacteria in the oxycline's PA fraction included taxa known to be aerobic and anaerobic chemoorganotrophs. At shallow anoxic depths, PA taxa were primarily affiliated with anaerobic sulfate (
)‐reducing lineages. PA fractions in the most sulfidic samples were dominated by taxa affiliated with CH4 oxidizing, fermenting and
reducing lineages. Prevalence of particle‐associated
‐reducing taxa and abundant sulfur‐oxidizing taxa in both size fractions across the oxic–anoxic interface is consistent with the cryptic sulfur cycling concept. Bacterial assemblage diversity in the PA fraction always exceeded the FL fraction except in the most oxic samples, whereas Archaeal diversity was not consistently different between size fractions. Our results suggest that these particle‐associated and free‐living bacterial assemblages are functionally different and that the interplay between particle microhabitats and surrounding geochemical regimes is a strong selective force shaping microbial communities throughout the water column.