bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exilibacterium tricleocarpae gen. nov., sp. nov., a marine bacterium from coralline algae Tricleocarpa sp.
Authors: Wang Guanghua , Zheng Xinfeng , Xu Shuailiang , Dang Ge , Su Hongfei , Liao Zhiheng , Chen Biao , Huang Wen , Liang Jiayuan , Yu Kefu
Published: May 2020

A Gram-stain-negative, non-spore-forming, aerobic, curved rod-shaped bacterium, designed strain R142T, was isolated from a coralline algae Tricleocarpa sp. in the Beibu Gulf, China. Optimal growth occurred with 0–0.5 % (w/v) NaCl, at 25 °C and at pH 8. Global alignment based on 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that strain R142T shared 93.8 % similarity with its closest type strain,

Pseudomaricurvus alkylphenolicus

KU14GT. Phylogenetic analyses showed that strain R142T forms a distinct branch alongside

Maricurvus nonylphenolicus

KU41ET,

Pseudoteredinibacter isoporae

SW-11T,

Pseudomaricurvus alkylphenolicus

KU14GT,

Pseudomaricurvus alcaniphilus

MEBiC06469T and

Aestuariicella hydrocarbonica

SM-6T. The major polar lipids of strain R142T were phosphatidylethanolamine and phosphatidylglycerol. The primary cellular fatty acids were C16 : 0, C16 : 1ω7c, C18 : 1ω7c, C18 : 0 and C14 : 0. The genome DNA G+C ratio was 56.4 mol%. The only detected respiratory quinone was ubiquinone 8. The low 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity and differences in cellular fatty acids readily distinguished strain R142T from all validly published type strains. Strain R142T is therefore suggested to represent a novel species of a new genus, for which the name Exilibacterium tricleocarpae gen. nov., sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain of Exilibacterium tricleocarpae is R142T (=MCCC 1K03816T=KCTC 72138T).
RRNPP-type quorum sensing affects solvent formation and sporulation in Clostridium acetobutylicum
Authors: Kotte Ann-Kathrin , Severn Oliver , Bean Zak , Schwarz Katrin , Minton Nigel P. , Winzer Klaus
Published: May 2020

The strictly anaerobic bacterium

Clostridium acetobutylicum

is well known for its ability to convert sugars into organic acids and solvents, most notably the potential biofuel butanol. However, the regulation of its fermentation metabolism, in particular the shift from acid to solvent production, remains poorly understood. The aim of this study was to investigate whether cell–cell communication plays a role in controlling the timing of this shift or the extent of solvent formation. Analysis of the available

C. acetobutylicum

genome sequences revealed the presence of eight putative RRNPP-type quorum-sensing systems, here designated qssA to qssH, each consisting of an RRNPP-type regulator gene followed by a small open reading frame encoding a putative signalling peptide precursor. The identified regulator and signal peptide precursor genes were designated qsrA to qsrH and qspA to qspH, respectively. Triplicate regulator mutants were generated in strain ATCC 824 for each of the eight systems and screened for phenotypic changes. The qsrB mutants showed increased solvent formation during early solventogenesis and hence the QssB system was selected for further characterization. Overexpression of qsrB severely reduced solvent and endospore formation and this effect could be overcome by adding short synthetic peptides to the culture medium representing a specific region of the QspB signalling peptide precursor. In addition, overexpression of qspB increased the production of acetone and butanol and the initial (48 h) titre of heat-resistant endospores. Together, these findings establish a role for QssB quorum sensing in the regulation of early solventogenesis and sporulation in

C. acetobutylicum

.
Evaluation of nCoV-QS (MiCo BioMed) for RT-qPCR detection of SARS-CoV-2 from nasopharyngeal samples using CDC FDA EUA qPCR kit as a gold standard: an example of the need of validation studies
Authors: Freire-Paspuel Byron , Vega-Mariño Patricio , Velez Alberto , Castillo Paulina , Cruz Marilyn , Garcia-Bereguiain Miguel Angel
Published: May 2020

Background

Several qPCR kits are available for SARS-CoV-2 diagnosis, mostly lacking of evaluation due to covid19 emergency.

Objective

We evaluated nCoV-QS (MiCo BioMed) kit using CDC kit as gold standard.

Results

We found limitations for nCoV-QS: 1) lower sensitivity 2) lack of RNA quality control probe 3) no capacity to quantify viral load.

Conclussions

Validation studies should be implemented for any SARS-CoV-2 RT-qPCR commercial kit to prevent unreliable diagnosis.
Effectiveness of Mulligan joint mobilizations and trunk stabilization exercises versus isometric knee strengthening in the management of knee osteoarthritis: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Nazir Shaikh Nabi Bukhsh , Ali Syed Shahzad , Akhtar Saeed
Published: May 2020

Background

Knee Osteoarthritis (KOA) has a huge negative impact on gait parameters and on many components of biomechanics, including impairment of dynamic lower limb alignment and control of lumbopelvic movement. Specifically addressing these problems in treatment regimens is therefore critical but they must first be studied in detail before they can be used clinically to treat patients with KOA. This study protocol focuses on whether Mulligan joint mobilization with movement demonstrably decreases pain and restores healthy joint biomechanics and whether trunk stabilization exercises improve stability of the trunk, thereby distributing the weight of the body evenly on both feet. Because the treatment effects of neither treatment are conclusive, this study aims to determine their efficacy versus isometric knee strengthening.

Method

The study protocol is a three-arm randomized controlled trial. After initial screening by a referring consultant, subjects who fulfil the study criteria will be randomly assigned to one of three groups. They will then be given an explanation of study objective and asked for their informed consent to participate in the study. Group 1 will receive Mulligan mobilization with kinesiotaping and knee strengthening. Group 2 will receive trunk stabilization exercises, knee strengthening, and kinesiotaping. Group 3 will receive knee strengthening along with kinesiotaping. All participants will be evaluated using a visual analogue scale, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, stair climb test and 6-minute walk test at the baseline, 3rd and end of 6th week.

Discussion

The results of this study will answer focused questions concerning the relative efficacy of each treatment in KOA patients. The findings of this study will inform clinical decision-making by healthcare professionals and researchers.

Trial registration

NCT04099017
Towards ‘Ancientbiotics’ for Biofilms: How can we bring traditional medicinal remedies out of treatise and into contemporary science?
Authors: Vandana Madhusoodhanan , Kadam Snehal , Bandgar Anuradha , Kaushik Karishma S
Published: May 2020

Introduction

Traditional medicinal remedies hold vast potential as novel antimicrobial agents, particularly for recalcitrant infection states such as biofilms. To explore their potential, it is important to bring these remedies out of ancient treatise and into present-day scientific evaluation. For traditional medical practices, this ‘development pipeline’ starts with probing treatise for potential remedies and testing them for anti-biofilm effects, or the ‘treatise to test’ phase.

Aim

The aim of this work is to present a primer for developing ‘ancientbiotics’ against biofilms, that focuses on the ‘treatise to test’ phase of the pipeline. Based on our approach and results, we provide insights into the considerations and challenges relevant to evaluating traditional remedies as anti-biofilm agents.

Methodology

We identified and reconstituted plant-based medicinal formulations from historical treatises of Indian traditional medicine, and analyzed their efficacy using widely-employed microtiter based assays, that constitute the cornerstone of biofilm studies. Measuring biomass and metabolic activity, we evaluated effects on biofilm formation and eradication of pre-formed biofilms, ofPseudomonas aeruginosaandStaphylococcus aureus.

Results

Based on recipes and preparation practices across several texts, and with modifications to ensure compatibility with modern scientific practices, three plant-based traditional remedies were identified and formulated in sesame oil (Bryophyllum pinnatum, Cynodon dactylon, andOcimum tenuiflorum). We observed differential effects on biomass and metabolic activity on the biofilm formation and eradication ofP. aeruginosaandS. aureus; highlighting the value of the microtiter-based assays as an initial screening tool for traditional remedies.

Conclusion

Through this study, we provide insights into considerations relevant to the ‘treatise to test’ phase of the ‘ancientbiotics’ pipeline, such as identifying ancient remedies, reconstituting them with present-day modifications, and usingin vitroassay formats for evaluation. The learnings in this primer will be relevant to both contemporary scientists and practitioners of ancient medicine, and will serve as a starting point for future studies exploring anti-biofilm approaches at the interface of historical and modern medicine.
Multiple SARS-CoV-2 introductions shaped the early outbreak in Central Eastern Europe: comparing Hungarian data to a worldwide sequence data-matrix
Authors: Kemenesi Gábor , Zeghbib Safia , Somogyi Balázs A , Tóth Gábor Endre , Bányai Krisztián , Solymosi Norbert , Szabo Peter M , Szabó István , Bálint Ádám , Urbán Péter , Herczeg Róbert , Gyenesei Attila , Nagy Ágnes , Pereszlényi Csaba István , Babinszky Gergely Csaba , Dudás Gábor , Terhes Gabriella , Zöldi Viktor , Lovas Róbert , Tenczer Szabolcs , Kornya László , Jakab Ferenc
Published: May 2020

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 is the third highly pathogenic human coronavirus in history. Since the emergence in Hubei province, China, during late 2019 the situation evolved to pandemic level. Following China, Europe was the second epicenter of the pandemic. To better comprehend the detailed founder mechanisms of the epidemic evolution in Central-Eastern Europe, particularly in Hungary, we determined the full-length SARS-CoV-2 genomes from 32 clinical samples collected from laboratory confirmed COVID-19 patients over the first month of disease in Hungary. We applied a haplotype network analysis on all available complete genomic sequences of SARS-CoV-2 from GISAID database as of the 21th of April, 2020. We performed additional phylogenetic and phylogeographic analyses to achieve the recognition of multiple and parallel introductory events into our region. Here we present a publicly available network imaging of the worldwide haplotype relations of SARS-CoV-2 sequences and conclude the founder mechanisms of the outbreak in Central-Eastern Europe.
Systematic protein complex profiling and differential analysis from co-fractionation mass spectrometry data
Authors: Fossati Andrea , Li Chen , Sykacek Peter , Heusel Moritz , Frommelt Fabian , Uliana Federico , Hallal Mahmoud , Bludau Isabell , Klemens Capraz Tümay , Xue Peng , Purcell Anthony W. , Gstaiger Matthias , Aebersold Ruedi
Published: May 2020

Protein complexes, macro-molecular assemblies of two or more proteins, play vital roles in numerous cellular activities and collectively determine the cellular state. Despite the availability of a range of methods for analysing protein complexes, systematic analysis of complexes under multiple conditions has remained challenging. Approaches based on biochemical fractionation of intact, native complexes and correlation of protein profiles have shown promise, for instance in the combination of size exclusion chromatography (SEC) with accurate protein quantification by SWATH/DIA-MS. However, most approaches for interpreting co-fractionation datasets to yield complex composition, abundance and rearrangements between samples depend heavily on prior evidence. We introduce PCprophet, a computational framework to identify novel protein complexes from SEC-SWATH-MS data and to characterize their changes across different experimental conditions. We demonstrate accurate prediction of protein complexes (AUC >0.99 and accuracy around 97%) via five-fold cross-validation on SEC-SWATH-MS data, show improved performance over state-of-the-art approaches on multiple annotated co-fractionation datasets, and describe a Bayesian approach to analyse altered protein-protein interactions across conditions. PCprophet is a generic computational tool consisting of modules for data pre-processing, hypothesis generation, machine-learning prediction, post-prediction processing, and differential analysis. It can be applied to any co-fractionation MS dataset, independent of separation or quantitative LC-MS workflow employed, and to support the detection and quantitative tracking of novel protein complexes and their physiological dynamics.
TEX15 associates with MILI and silences transposable elements in male germ cells
Authors: Yang Fang , Lan Yemin , Pandey Radha Raman , Homolka David , Berger Shelley L. , Pillai Ramesh S. , Bartolomei Marisa S. , Wang P. Jeremy
Published: May 2020

DNA methylation is a major silencing mechanism of transposable elements (TEs). Here we report that TEX15, a testis-specific protein, is required for TE silencing. TEX15 is expressed in embryonic germ cells and functions during genome-wide epigenetic reprogramming. The Tex15 mutant exhibits DNA hypomethylation in TEs at a level similar to Mili and Dnmt3c but not Miwi2 mutants. TEX15 is associated with MILI in testis. As loss of Tex15 causes TE desilencing with intact piRNA production, our results identify TEX15 as a new essential epigenetic regulator that may function as a nuclear effector of MILI to silence TEs by DNA methylation.
Transcriptional down-regulation of metabolic genes by Gdown1 ablation induces quiescent cell re-entry into the cell cycle
Authors: Jishage Miki , Ito Keiichi , Chu Chi-Shuen , Wang Xiaoling , Yamaji Masashi , Roeder Robert G.
Published: May 2020

Liver regeneration and metabolism are highly interconnected. Here, we show that hepatocyte-specific ablation of RNA polymerase II (Pol II)-associated Gdown1 leads to down-regulation of highly expressed genes involved in plasma protein synthesis and metabolism, a concomitant cell cycle re-entry associated with induction of cell cycle-related genes (including cyclin D1), and up-regulation of p21 through activation of p53 signaling. In the absence of p53, Gdown1-deficient hepatocytes show a severe dysregulation of cell cycle progression, with incomplete mitoses, and a premalignant-like transformation. Mechanistically, Gdown1 is associated with elongating Pol II on the highly expressed genes and its ablation leads to reduced Pol II recruitment to these genes, suggesting that Pol II redistribution may facilitate hepatocyte re-entry into the cell cycle. These results establish an important physiological function for a Pol II regulatory factor (Gdown1) in the maintenance of normal liver cell transcription through constraints on cell cycle re-entry of quiescent hepatocytes.
Impacts of activity-based costing on organizational performance: evidence from Thailand
Authors: Vetchagool Witchulada , Augustyn Marcjanna M. , Tayles Mike
Published: May 2020

Purpose

To extend the limited yet conflicting results of prior studies, this paper hypothesizes and statistically tests alternative, structurally different models of likely positive impacts of activity-based costing (ABC) on organizational performance (OP). It also tests moderating effects of business type and business size.

Design/methodology/approach

To test the models' abilities to explain the data, this comparative study uses survey data from 191 Thai firms, measures validated in the study and structural equation modeling (SEM).

Findings

Extensive use of ABC for cost analysis, cost strategy and cost evaluation directly improves operational performance (OPP); it also indirectly improves financial performance (FP) through improving OPP. The results are similar for manufacturing and non-manufacturing firms and for large firms and small-medium enterprises (SMEs).

Research limitations/implications

Future studies could test the alternative models in other geographical and industrial contexts and could widen the range of control variables.

Practical implications

Monitoring of the effects of ABC use on OPP is crucial to achieving positive financial outcomes. The cross-functional nature of ABC is apparent; for it to be effective managers must ensure cooperation from departments and employees involved in the design and implementation of ABC systems.

Originality/value

This research arbitrates prior inconsistent findings by adopting an original approach of testing structurally different models in a single comparative study, using measures validated in the study. It provides new evidence that extends knowledge about impacts of ABC on OP. Further, it demonstrates its applicability in the context of developing economies.
Investigation on the shaft voltage generation of large synchronous turboalternators
Authors: Darques Kevin , Tounzi Abdelmounaïm , Le-menach Yvonnick , Beddek Karim
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to go deeper on the analysis of the shaft voltage of large turbogenerators. The main interest of this study is the investigation process developed.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis of the shaft voltage because of several defects is based on a two-dimensional (2D) finite element modeling. This 2D finite element model is used to determine the shaft voltage because of eccentricities or rotor short-circuit.

Findings

Dynamic eccentricities and rotor short circuit do not have an inherent impact on the shaft voltage. Circulating currents in the stator winding because of defects impact the shaft voltage.

Originality/value

The original value of this paper is the investigation process developed. This study proposes to quantify the impact of a smooth stator and then to explore the contribution of the real stator winding on the shaft voltage.
Secured and flexible user authentication protocol for wireless sensor network
Authors: P Prabu , T Senthilnathan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In wireless sensor network (WSN), user authentication plays as a vital role in which data sensing, as well as sharing, will be spoiled by hackers. To enhance user security, user authentication must be focused.

Design/methodology/approach

In previous works, for secured authentication, Enhanced User Authentication Protocol (EUAP) is presented. On the other hand, the user free password generation is permitted in the previous technique.

Findings

Here, password leakage may cause a malevolent user's contribution to the WSN environment. By presenting the Flexible and Secured User Authentication Protocol (FSUAP), this is solved in the presented technique in which secured as well as reliable sharing of data contents via unsecured wireless sensor devices was accomplished.

Originality/value

The foremost objective of the present technique is to device the protocol that would verify the users beforehand letting them access the sensor devices situated in various sites. The use of a sensor device could be reduced in a significant way. Three-factor authentication protocols are presented in place of two-factor authentication protocol in the presented technique that could deal with and safeguard the environment from a brute force attack in an effective manner.
Carrot or stick? The impact of paternalistic leadership on the behavioral integration of top management teams in megaprojects
Authors: Wan Jingyuan , Le Yun , Wang Ge , Xia Nini , Liu Xiaoxue
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Following the call to explore what leadership theory could be applicable in temporary organizations, the purpose of this study was to develop an integrative model linking the effects of paternalistic leadership styles (i.e. authoritarian, benevolent and moral) on the behavioral integration (BI) of top management teams (TMTs) in megaproject settings.

Design/methodology/approach

The performance of the research model was tested based on empirical data collected from a sample of 43 megaproject TMTs.

Findings

The results show that the moral leadership style can significantly stimulate the BI of TMTs, whereas authoritarian leadership has a negative impact and benevolent leadership has no significant impact. Furthermore, trust in leader plays a partial mediating role between paternalistic leadership and BI, and the power distance value of TMT positively moderates the links between authoritarian and moral leadership styles and BI.

Research limitations/implications

The TMT sample was drawn from China's megaprojects, most of which have global influence (e.g. Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao Bridge and Shanghai Expo), but the sampling approach limits the generalizability of the research findings to other contexts.

Originality/value

This study introduces the concept of BI into the realm of megaproject management and provides a novel perspective (i.e. paternalistic leadership) for exploring its antecedents. The findings, therefore, contribute to the literature by broadening the megaproject management research with a microfoundation perspective and by extending the extant paternalistic leadership in the context of temporary organizational settings.
Building organization and employee resilience in disaster contexts
Authors: Teng-Calleja Mendiola , Hechanova Maria Regina M. , Sabile Pinky Rose , Villasanta Angelique Pearl Virtue P.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study explored the resilience-building initiatives of work organizations using the Johns Hopkins Resistance–Resilience–Recovery Model. It also determined how resilience-building initiatives increase organizational resilience and promote employee resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed an exploratory sequential mixed-methods approach. In Study 1, resilience-building initiatives of selected work organizations in the Philippines were determined through qualitative research. A survey questionnaire to determine the presence of resistance, resilience and recovery programs in organizations was developed based on the results of this qualitative study. In Study 2, the empirical relations of these initiatives to reported levels of perceived organizational resilience as well as individual employee resilience were determined through a quantitative survey among employees. Data was analyzed using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings of the study described resistance, resilience and recovery programs in work organizations. Results also supported the hypothesis that the presence of resilience-building initiatives contributes to organizational resilience, which in turn affects employee resilience.

Research limitations/implications

The relatively low contribution of organization initiatives on organization resilience suggests that other factors may need to be explored. Also, despite using a sequential mixed-method approach, conducting longitudinal studies in future research will provide more robust data on the impact of interventions on resilience.

Practical implications

Management may use the results in identifying initiatives that can increase resilience in their organizations. The tool created may be utilized in gathering data on initiatives and help those in-charge of disaster risk reduction and management build a business case on the importance of investing in resilience-building efforts.

Originality/value

The study identified resilience-building initiatives of work organizations in a country that regularly experiences disasters as well as demonstrated the utility of the Johns Hopkins Model as framework for resilience building in the workplace. A survey questionnaire to determine the presence of resistance, resilience and recovery programs in organizations was developed through the exploratory study (Study 1), and the contributions of these initiatives to resilience of employees and organizations were established in Study 2.
Study on tribological properties of surface concave convex micro-texture on the mold steel
Authors: Yang Xiping , Fu Yonghong , Ji Jinghu , Chen Tianyang , Pan Caiyun
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the tribological characteristics with different area density of concave-convex micro-texture on the mold surface. It is a new technology to improve the quality of the workpiece to control the tribological properties through the application of concave-convex micro-texture on the mold surface.

Design/methodology/approach

Five groups of laser micro-texture with different area density (ratio of the concave-convex micro-texture area to the all-area) were processed on the surface of the mold steel, and the tribological properties were compared with the smooth surface of the reference sample.

Findings

The time of the running-in stage in different experimental groups was about 300 s. The fluctuation amplitude of concave-convex micro-texture friction coefficient is much larger than that of smooth plane specimen in the running-in stage. After the running-in stage, the friction coefficients were lower than that in the smooth condition and decreased with the increase of the concave-convex micro-texture area density. When the area density reached 25%, the friction coefficients no longer decreased significantly. In addition, the wear of concave-convex micro-texture surface is much lower than that of smooth surface and decreases with the increase of concave-convex micro-texture area density.

Originality/value

Domestic and foreign scholars have done a lot of research on the relationship between concave micro-texture and tribological properties. However, the object of this paper is a new concave-convex micro-texture, which is rarely studied in the field of tribology.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-03-2020-0081/
Skidding research of a high-speed cylindrical roller bearing with beveled cage pockets
Authors: Liu Yanbin , Zhang Zhanli
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to uncover the influencing mechanism of the tilt angles of the cage pocket walls of the high-speed cylindrical roller bearing on the bearing skidding.

Design/methodology/approach

A novel cylindrical roller bearing with the beveled cage pockets was proposed. Using the Hertz contact theory and the elastohydrodynamic and hydrodynamic lubrication formulas, the contact models of the bearing were built. Using the multibody kinematics and the Newton–Euler dynamics theory, a dynamics model of the bearing was established. Using the Runge–Kutta integration method, the dynamics simulations and analysis of the bearing were performed.

Findings

The simulation results show that the effects of the tilt angles of the front and rear walls of the pocket on the bearing skidding are remarkable. Under a 5° tilt angle of the front wall of the pocket and a 10° tilt angle of the rear wall, the bearing skidding can be effectively decreased in the rotational speed range of 10,000-70,000 r/min.

Originality/value

In this paper, a novel cylindrical roller bearing with the beveled cage pockets was proposed; a dynamics model of the bearing was established; the influence mechanism of the tilt angles of the front and rear walls of the pocket on the bearing skidding was investigated, which can provide fundamental theory basis for optimizing the pocket.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-01-2020-0035/
Multicriteria decision choices for investment in innovative upper-middle income countries
Authors: Silva Marcela do Carmo , Gomes Costa Helder , Simões Gomes Carlos Francisco
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to observe how to invest in upper-middle income countries via an innovation perspective following global innovation index (GII) by multicriteria decision aid (MCDA) approach, once MCDA was designed to support subjective decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Pearson’s correlation was the milestone for understanding innovation indicators at upper-middle income countries profiles. In a MCDA first step, the analytical hierarchy process (AHP) was applied to obtain the criteria weight. In this step, the judgments or evaluations inputted in AHP were collected from a sample composed by five experts in GII. After getting the criteria weights compose to GII, Borda and Preference Ranking Organization Method for Enrichment Evaluations (PROMÉTHÉE) methods were applied to obtain an MCDA-based GII. The inputs for this second step were: the weights come from AHP output; and the countries performance came from GII data.

Findings

As a result, it was found out the upper-middle countries’ rank to invest and groups with countries acting like “hubs” or “bridges” for economic sectors in near countries; when they are grouped according to their maximum and minimum scores profiles, observing not only a particular region but also similar profiles at diverse world areas.

Originality/value

Pearson-AHP-PROMÉTHÉE works as a supportive decision tool for several and complex investment perspectives from criteria and alternatives analysis regarding innovation indicators for upper-middle income countries. This combination also demonstrates grouping possibilities, aligning profiles and not only ranking countries for investment and eliminating others but also grouping countries with similar profiles via innovation indicators MCDA combined application.
What makes quality satisfied OER? Insights from Universitas Terbuka for Indonesia 4.0
Authors: Sembiring Maximus Gorky , Rahayu Gayuh
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the origins of providing quality satisfied open educational resources (QS-OER) related to Making Indonesia 4.0. It was aimed at exploring plausible determinants perceived by faculty. It was also of interest to reveal how, in what routines associated factors were interrelated.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory design was used. A conceptual framework was first established through a literature review and focus group discussion. Conceptually, QS-OER included presage, pattern, process, product, practicability, prospective and power (7Ps). QS-OER had direct effects on hard, soft, social and life skills (4Ss). The operational framework was then established with 7Ps, QS-OER and 4Ss as independent, moderating and dependent variables, respectively. The population of 631 from Universitas Terbuka faculty was included in the study. Respondents were randomly chosen to accumulate data through a survey. Methodically, importance–performance analysis (IPA) and customer-satisfaction index (CSI) were emulated to measure satisfaction level and importance degree. Eleven hypotheses were assessed under structural equation modeling.

Findings

Seven hypotheses were validated following 211 returned responses from respondents. Product was the most influential factor to QS-OER, followed by power, practicability, pattern and prospective, whereas presage and process were excluded. QS-OER influenced hard and soft skills, but social and life skills were excluded. IPA-CSI chart identified 21 (of 32) attributes as the pillars of QS-OER.

Originality/value

The quantitative framework was statistically dependable despite two of nine cut-off values that are slightly below the goodness-of-fit criteria. The study recognized the variance of qualitative versus quantitative results. Further inquiry is vital to diminish divergence by incorporating more relevant methods, augmenting theoretical exposures and/or enlarging sample size/population.
What is so special with outsourcing in the public sector?
Authors: Hakansson Hakan , Axelsson Björn
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper centers round outsourcing. The purpose of this paper is to direct attention to outsourcing in the public sector and focus on what could be special when considering outsourcing in such contexts. The authors try to portray the business activities in private and in public sector settings and identify some similarities and – more importantly – some significant differences.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use two analytical tools, a classification system of various interfaces between a selling and buying firm and a two-fold scheme for strategic analyses of outsourcing or not as well as in what ways to outsource. These tools have been developed in studies of private sector outsourcing but are applicable, as tools, also in public sector contexts. Two empirical cases from public sector outsourcing are used to illustrate options and obstacles for outsourcing ventures in the public sector.

Findings

The analytical discussion aims at pointing out when and how outsourcing should be a straightforward choice in the public sector. The authors also point at situations when it is a much more complicated process and thus restricted.

Originality/value

This study gives strong support for the need to identify which theoretical model has been used by the involved organizations in their evaluation of the situation.
The double value of customer interactivity: the mediation effect of knowledge exchange quality
Authors: Guan Xinhua , Xie Lishan , Zhu Tengteng
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between customer interactivity and the value it realizes for employees and customers, that is, employee creativity and customer-perceived economic value, and to test the mediation role of knowledge exchange quality in this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional empirical study using pairing data collected from the employees and customers of a high-contact service industry is designed to test the research model. Customers and employees in 75 hotels in China are surveyed. Equation model analysis is performed with SPSS and Amos.

Findings

Customer interactivity has a positive effect on the employee creativity and customer-perceived economic value, and the quality of knowledge exchange mediates the two processes.

Practical implications

The findings provide suggestions for managers to take action to promote interactions between customers and employees and to encourage them to actively participate in the value creation process. Additionally, enterprises can establish a knowledge integration mechanism to improve the quality of knowledge exchange.

Originality/value

This study explores the value of interaction from the perspective of both sides of the interaction, enriching and expanding the theory of interaction. Few studies simultaneously consider the value of both parties in the interaction process. From a two-way perspective, this study extends the past unilateral angle to a multilateral perspective and clearly explains the mechanism behind continuous interaction. This study finds the key mediator variable – knowledge exchange quality – in how customer–employee interactions achieve value. It theoretically enriches the research on the interaction-value mechanism from the perspective of knowledge management.
Identifying halal logistics constraints in Brunei Darussalam
Authors: Ab Talib Mohamed Syazwan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Despite the thriving global halal industry and logistics’ vital role in the halal supply chain, knowledge and research on halal logistics remain limited, particularly in Brunei Darussalam. Hence, the purpose of this paper is to understand the current state of knowledge by identifying the halal logistics constraints in Brunei Darussalam.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses the theory of constraints, inductive reasoning and support from a review of relevant academic journal articles, to uncover the hindering factors surrounding halal logistics in the country.

Findings

The paper identifies five critical issues, which occur from internal and external factors, that constraint the growth of halal logistics in Brunei Darussalam.

Research limitations/implications

The qualitative design limits this conceptual piece. However, the paper could be beneficial in informing the academic and industry circles of the potentials and challenges in Brunei Darussalam, particularly in its logistics sector.

Originality/value

This study is the first to investigate halal logistics in Brunei. The study positively contributes to the understanding of the halal logistics constraints in Brunei as well as adds to the growing body of halal logistics literature and enriching the halal research sphere.
Technological evolution of wind energy with social network analysis
Authors: Altuntas Fatma , Gök Mehmet Şahin
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the wind energy technologies using the social network analysis based on patent information. Analysis of patent documents with social network analysis is used to identify the most influential and connected technologies in the field of wind energy.

Design/methodology/approach

In the literature, patent data are often used to evaluate technologies. Patents related to wind energy technologies are obtained from the United States Patent and Trademark Office database and the relationships among sub-technologies based on Corporate Patent Classification (CPC) codes are analyzed in this study. The results of two-phase algorithm for mining high average-utility itemsets algorithm, which is one of the utility mining algorithm in data mining, is used to find associations among wind energy technologies for social network analysis.

Findings

The results of this study show that it is very important to focus on wind motors and technologies related to energy conversion or management systems reducing greenhouse gas emissions. The results of this study imply that Y02E, F03D and F05B CPC codes are the most influential CPC codes based on social network analysis.

Originality/value

Analysis of patent documents with social network analysis for technology evaluation is extremely limited in the literature. There is no research related to the analysis of patent documents with social network analysis, in particular CPC codes, for wind energy technology. This paper fills this gap in the literature. This study explores technologies related to wind energy technologies and identifies the most influential wind energy technologies in practice. This study also extracts useful information and knowledge to identify core corporate patent class (es) in the field of wind energy technology.
Willemite with Li2CO3 as a sintering aid for LTCC microwave substrates
Authors: Synkiewicz-Musialska Beata
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on fabrication procedure and present microstructure and dielectric behavior of willemite ceramic material with addition of 5% Li2CO3 as a sintering aid.

Design/methodology/approach

The samples were fabricated by ball milling of the ceramic powders, preparation of granulate and pressing and co-firing using temperature profile based on heating microscope observation. The dielectric properties of the material were measured by impedance spectroscopy (Hz-MHz), transmission method (GHz) and time domain spectroscopy (THz). The composition and microstructure of the material were investigated using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectroscopy analysis. Ceramic powder was used to fabricate a green tape and low temperature co-fired ceramics (LTCC) multilayer structures, which in the next steps of the research were examined at the angle of cooperation with conductive pastes, strength and geometric repeatability.

Findings

The fabricated material showed low sintering temperature (920°C–960°C), low dielectric constant 6.2–6.34 and low dissipation factor at the level of 0.004–0.007. As LTCC material, willemite with 5% Li2CO3 addition showed good compatibility with AgPd conductive paste.

Originality/value

Search for new materials with low dielectric constant, applicable in LTCC technology, and development of their fabrication procedure are important tasks for the progress in modern microwave circuits.
The cognitive and behavioral impact of a culinary education program on schoolchildren
Authors: Al Ali Nur , Arriaga Andres , Rubio Margarita
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design a culinary education program and ascertain its impact on knowledge, phobias, culinary skills and diet quality in schoolchildren.

Design/methodology/approach

Repeated measures design to determine changes after the implementation of the culinary education program in a pre-school and primary school located in a Madrid (Spain) neighborhood with a low socioeconomic level. A total of 58 children agreed to participate in the program and 40 parents authorized the evaluation of the effect of the program. Variables were measured with Student’st-test or Wilcoxon-signed range test for quantitative variables. Effect size was calculated by Cohen’sd.

Findings

The mean scores in knowledge and beliefs improved from 5.0 to 7.8 (P< 0.001; Cohen’sd= 1), the mean value obtained in the food phobias test decreased from 24.6 to 20.7 (P= 0.01; Cohen’sd= 0.53), diet quality on Kid Med Test score increased from 7.4 to 8.2 (P= 0.06; Cohen’sd= 0.38), and the children improved their culinary skills from 21.2 to 27.9 (P< 0.001; Cohen’sd= 0.66).

Research limitations/implications

Self-declared data could lead to information biases. Other limitations were the lack of control group and a scarce statistical power that could explain the absence of statistical significance in the results on diet quality. To observe the effects of this change on eating habits, long-term evaluations would have to be carried out.

Originality/value

The brand-new culinary education program had a positive effect on children’s knowledge of nutrition and culinary skills as well as reducing food phobias. This proposal is beyond the state-of-the-art and could be implemented elsewhere with a robust effect on children, parents and educators.
Boosting customer citizenship behavior through corporate social responsibility: does perceived service quality matter?
Authors: Aljarah Ahmad , Alrawashdeh Majed
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Prior studies have not yet made sufficient effort to examine the relationship between corporate social responsibility (CSR) and customer citizenship behavior (CCB) in the hospitality context. The purpose of this study is to explore the role of CSR in fostering CCB in the hospitality context, as well as the mechanisms underlying the relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This study obtained its empirical evidence from 422 hotel customers in North Cyprus and applied a structural equation modeling analysis.

Findings

The findings reveal that CSR significantly contributes to customer help, customer feedback and customer tolerance. Surprisingly, the results do not support the existence of a significant relationship between CSR and customer advocacy. Evidence indicates that perceived service quality plays a partial mediating role.

Practical implications

This study has shown that customers are rewarding firms involved in CSR initiatives in the form of CCB – directly and indirectly – through perceived service quality. This finding can advance managers’ understanding, enabling them to better manage their CSR initiatives to achieve the most effective outcomes.

Originality/value

The study advances a convergence between the research streams of CSR and CCB, which has been under-explored in the tourism context. The study also extends the CSR and customer citizenship literature through a novel mediation mechanism of perceived service quality.
Interpregnancy interval and risk of perinatal death: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Regan AK , Arnaout A , Marinovich L , Marston C , Patino I , Kaur R , Gebremedhin A , Pereira G
Published: May 2020

Background

Interpregnancy interval (IPI) <6 months is a potentially modifiable risk factor for adverse perinatal health outcomes.

Objective

This systematic review evaluated the international literature on the risk of perinatal death associated with IPI.

Search strategy

Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts identified in MEDLINE, EMBASE and Scopus from inception to 4 April 2019 (Prospero Registration #CRD42018092792).

Selection criteria

Studies were included if they provided a description of IPI measurement and perinatal death, including stillbirth and neonatal death.

Data collection and analysis

A narrative review was performed for all included studies. Random effects meta‐analysis was used to compare unadjusted odds of perinatal death associated with IPI <6 months and IPI ≥6 months. Analyses were performed by outcome of the preceding pregnancy and study location.

Main results

Of the 624 unique articles identified, 26 met the inclusion criteria. The pooled unadjusted odds ratio of perinatal death for IPI <6 months was 1.34 (95% CI 1.17–1.53) following a previous live birth, 0.85 (95% CI 0.73–0.99) following a previous miscarriage and 1.07 (95% CI 0.84–1.36) following a previous stillbirth compared with IPI ≥6 months. However, few high‐income country studies reported an association after adjustment. Fewer studies evaluated the impact of long IPI on perinatal death and what evidence was available showed mixed results.

Conclusions

Results suggest a possible association between short IPI and risk of perinatal death following a live birth, particularly in low‐ to middle‐income countries.

Tweetable abstract

Short IPI <6 months after a live birth was associated with greater risk of perinatal death than IPI ≥6 months.
Patient experience of health care system hassles: Dual‐system vs single‐system users
Authors: Noël Polly H. , Barnard Jenny M. , Barry Frances M. , Simon Alissa , Lee Martin L. , Olmos‐Ochoa Tanya T. , Chawla Neetu , Rose Danielle E. , Stockdale Susan E. , Finley Erin P. , Penney Lauren S. , Ganz David A.
Published: May 2020

Objective

To compare health care system problems or “hassles” experienced by Veterans receiving VA health care only versus those receiving dual care from both VA and non‐VA community providers.

Data Sources

We collected survey data in 2017‐2018 from 2444 randomly selected Veterans with four or more primary care visits in the prior year at one of 12 VA primary care clinics located in four geographically diverse regions of the United States.

Study Design

We used baseline surveys from the Coordination Toolkit and Coaching quality improvement project to explore Veterans’ experience of hassles (dependent variable), source of health care, self‐rated physical and mental health, and sociodemographics.

Data Collection

Participants responded to mailed surveys by mail, telephone, or online.

Principal Findings

The number of reported hassles ranged from 0 to 16; 79 percent of Veterans reported experiencing one or more hassles. Controlling for sociodemographic characteristics and self‐rated physical and mental health, zero‐inflated negative binominal regression indicated that dual care users experienced more hassles than VA‐only users (adjusted predicted average 5.5 [CI: 5.2, 5.8] vs 4.3 [CI: 4.1, 4.6] hassles [P < .0001]).

Conclusions

Anticipated increases in Veterans accessing community‐based care may require new strategies to help VA primary care teams optimize care coordination for dual care users.