bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Largest Subunit of Human TFIIIC Complex, TFIIIC220, a Lysine Acetyltransferase Targets Histone H3K18
Authors: Basu Moumita , Boopathi Ramachandran , Das Sadhan , Kundu Tapas K
Published: January 2019

TFIIIC is a multisubunit complex that recognizes promoter elements and recruits TFIIIB and RNA polymerase III. Human TFIIIC complex possess lysine acetyltransferase activity which is critical in relieving chromatin mediated repression for RNA polymerase III-mediated transcription; two subunits of the TFIIIC complex, TFIIIC110 and TFIIIC90, were shown to acetylate H3 in vitro. Here we show that the largest and DNA binding subunit of TFIIIC complex, TFIIIC220, possesses intrinsic lysine acetyltransferase activity and acetylates histone H3K18 residue. By employing homology search we have identified the potential catalytic domain of TFIIIC220 which efficiently acetylate core histones in vitro. Point mutations at the critical residues of the identified acetyltransferase domain drastically reduces the acetyltransferase activity. Significantly, knockdown of TFIIIC220 in HepG2 cell line dramatically reduces global H3K18 acetylation level suggesting that TFIIIC220 is a crucial KAT to maintain acetylation homeostasis in the cell.
High concentration and yield production of mannose from açaí (Euterpe oleracea) seeds via diluted-acid and mannanase-catalyzed hydrolysis
Authors: Monteiro Alvaro Ferreira , Miguez Ingrid Santos , Barros Silva João Pedro R. , Silva Ayla Santana
Published: January 2019

The açaí berry’s seed corresponds to 85–95% of the fruit’s weight and represents ~1.1 million tons of residue yearly accumulated in the Amazon region. This study confirmed that mannan is the major component of mature seeds, corresponding to 80% of the seed’s total carbohydrates and about 50% of its dry weight. To convert this high mannan content into mannose, a sequential process of diluted acid and enzymatic hydrolysis was evaluated. Diluted-H2SO4 hydrolysis (3%-acid, 60-min, 121°C) resulted in a 30% mannan hydrolysis yield and 41.7 g/L of mannose. Because ~70% mannan remained in the seed, a mannanase-catalyzed hydrolysis was sequentially performed with 2–20% seed concentration, reaching 146.3 g/L of mannose and a 96.8% yield with 20% solids. As far as we know, this is the highest reported concentration of mannose produced from a residue. Thus, this work provides fundamental data for achieving high concentrations and yields of mannose from açaí seeds.

Highlights

Mannan was confirmed as the major component (~50%) of açaí seeds.

Diluted-H2SO4 hydrolysis had a limited effect on mannan conversion into mannose.

Enzymatic hydrolysis was sequentially performed with a high seed concentration.

Mannan was efficiently hydrolyzed by mannanases, producing a 96.8% yield.

Mannose production of 146.3 g/L was obtained with mannanase-catalyzed hydrolysis.

Graphical abstract
Estimating residence times of lymphocytes in ovine lymph nodes
Authors: McDaniel Margaret M. , Ganusov Vitaly V.
Published: January 2019

The ability of lymphocytes to recirculate between blood and secondary lymphoid tissues such as lymph nodes (LNs) and spleen is well established. Sheep have been used as an experimental system to study lymphocyte recirculation for decades and multiple studies exist documenting accumulation and loss of intravenously (i.v.) transferred lymphocytes in efferent lymph of various ovine LNs. Yet, surprisingly little work has been done to accurately quantify the dynamics of lymphocyte exit from the LNs and to estimate the average residence times of lymphocytes in ovine LNs. In this work we developed a series of mathematical models based on fundamental principles of lymphocyte recirculation in the body and specifically, on how lymphocytes enter and exit lymph nodes in non-inflammatory (resting) conditions. We fitted these models to data from several independent experiments. Our analysis suggested that in sheep, recirculating lymphocytes spend on average 3 hours in the spleen and 20 hours in skin or gut-draining LNs with a distribution of residence times in LNs following a skewed gamma (lognormal-like) distribution. The latter result is in contrast which recent suggestions that the distribution of residence times of naive T cells in murine LNs is exponential and that lymphocyte residence times depend on the LN type (e.g., gut- vs. skin-draining). Our mathematical models also suggested an explanation for a puzzling observation of the long-term persistence of i.v. transferred lymphocytes in the efferent lymph of the prescapular LN (pLN); the model predicted that this is a natural consequence of long-term persistence of the transferred lymphocytes in circulation. We also found that lymphocytes isolated from the skin-draining pLN have a two-fold increased entry rate into the pLN as opposed to the mesenteric (gut-draining) LN (mLN). Likewise, lymphocytes from mLN had a three-fold increased entry rate into the mLN as opposed to entry rate into pLN. Importantly, these cannulation data could not be explained by preferential retention of cells in LNs of origin. Taken together, our work illustrates the power of mathematical modeling in describing the kinetics of lymphocyte migration in sheep and provides quantitative estimates of lymphocyte residence times in ovine LNs.
Whole Genome Doubling mitigates Muller’s Ratchet in Cancer Evolution
Authors: López Saioa , Lim Emilia , Huebner Ariana , Dietzen Michelle , Mourikis Thanos , Watkins Thomas B.K. , Rowan Andrew , Dewhurst Sally M. , Birkbak Nicolai J. , Wilson Gareth A. , Jamal-Hanjani Mariam , Swanton Charles ,   on behalf of TRACERx Consortium, McGranahan Nicholas
Published: January 2019

Whole genome doubling (WGD) is a prevalent macro-evolutionary event in cancer, involving a doubling of the entire chromosome complement. However, despite its prevalence and clinical prognostic relevance, the evolutionary selection pressures for WGD have not been investigated. Here, we explored whether WGD may act to mitigate the irreversible, inexorable ratchet-like, accumulation of deleterious mutations in essential genes. Utilizing 1050 tumor regions from 816 non-small cell lung cancers (NSCLC), we temporally dissect mutations to determine their temporal acquisition in relation to WGD. We find evidence for strong negative selection against homozygous loss of essential cancer genes prior to WGD. However, mutations in essential genes occurring after duplication were not subject to significant negative selection, consistent with WGD providing a buffering effect, decreasing the likelihood of homozygous loss. Finally, we demonstrate that loss of heterozygosity and temporal dissection of mutations can be exploited to identify signals of positive selection in lung, breast, colorectal cancer and other cancer types, enabling the elucidation of novel tumour suppressor genes and a deeper characterization of known cancer genes.
Utilizing guanine-coordinated Zn2+ ions to determine DNA crystal structures by single-wavelength anomalous diffraction
Authors: Hou Caixia , Tsodikov Oleg V.
Published: January 2019

The experimental phase determination of crystal structures of nucleic acids and nucleic acid–ligand complexes would benefit from a facile method. Even for double-stranded DNA, software-generated models are generally insufficiently accurate to serve as molecular replacement search models, necessitating experimental phasing. Here, it is demonstrated that Zn2+ ions coordinated to the N7 atom of guanine bases generate sufficient anomalous signal for single-wavelength anomalous diffraction (SAD) phasing of DNA crystal structures. Using zinc SAD, three crystal structures of double-stranded DNA oligomers, 5′-AGGGATCCCT-3′, 5′-GGGATCCC-3′ and 5′-GAGGCCTC-3′, were determined. By determining the crystal structure of one of these oligomers, GAGGCCTC, in the presence of Mg2+ instead of Zn2+, it was demonstrated that Zn2+ is not structurally perturbing. These structures allowed the analysis of structural changes in the DNA on the binding of analogues of the natural product mithramycin to two of these oligomers, AGGGATCCCT and GAGGCCTC. Zinc SAD may become a routine approach for determining the crystal structures of nucleic acids and their complexes with small molecules.
The corrosion behavior of compositional modified AISI type 304L stainless steel for nitric acid application
Authors: Shit Gopinath , Ningshen S.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

High corrosion resistance in different concentrations of nitric acid is essential for structural steels to be used for the aqueous reprocessing of spent nuclear fuels with high plutonium content.

Design/methodology/approach

In the present study, the corrosion resistance of type 304L stainless steel (SS) with modified composition was evaluated in different concentrations of nitric acid using surface analytical techniques, weight loss method and electrochemical measurements.

Findings

Weight loss measurement in boiling 65 per cent nitric acid showed a low corrosion rate value of about 0.2 mm/y (8 mpy) after 240 h exposure. Electrochemical measurements revealed the shift in open circuit potentials as well as corrosion potential toward more noble direction, and the results of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy studies indicated the reduction in the thickness and stability of the passive film with increasing concentration from 6 to 11.5 M nitric acid.

Research limitations/implications

The low corrosion rate observed for this steel is attributed to the higher content of Cr (19 per cent), Ni (10 per cent) and Si (0.3 per cent) and controlled minor alloying elements (S, P, B, C, etc.) in the alloy that contributed to improving the transpassive corrosion resistance and minimizing the intergranular corrosion attack. The X-ray photoelectron spectroscopic analysis revealed the composition of the passive films to be mainly of iron and chromium oxides.

Practical implications

Materials with lower corrosion rates are desirable for applications in nitric acid.

Social implications

The used of nitric acid creates a severe corrosive environment in chemical or aqueous nuclear reprocessing plants, and hence with a modified composition of type 304L SS resulting in minimizing failure of components are desirable for reducing cost and maintenance.

Originality/value

The present paper is an original work carried out by the authors on the corrosion resistance behaviors of composition modified AISI type 304L SS for nitric acid application. The effects of different nitric acid concentrations were compared to provide understanding on in applicability in boiling and high nitric acid concentrations.
Quantifying the degree of supply chain leagility and assessing its impact on firm performance
Authors: Fadaki Masih , Rahman Shams , Chan Caroline
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the supply chain leagility proposing all supply chains are leagile with different magnitudes of leanness and agility. A new index, “Deviation from Leagility” (DFL), is introduced, aiming to optimise supply chain design and investigate the relationship between supply chain leagility and firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The partial least squares (PLS) method was employed to analyse data collected from 299 Australian firms by administering a structured questionnaire.

Findings

The results indicate that most companies adopt the leagile supply chain rather than the lean or pure agile design. Furthermore, better business performance is achievable when deviation from a balanced supply chain in which both aspects of leanness and agility are equally embedded is minimised.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to a number of constraints that measure leagility; further research is needed to incorporate different aspects of agility.

Practical implications

The findings of this study could provide a guideline for supply chain executives to improve their company’s performance by designing a more balanced leagile supply chain.

Originality/value

This study is unique in its in-depth empirical investigation of modelling of leagile supply chain using a new index, and also addressing: first, the current mismatch between the well-known mutually exclusive strategies (lean/agile); and second, what has later been found when the proposed models were quantitatively tested.
Organic food consumerism through social commerce in China
Authors: Tariq Anum , Wang Changfeng , Tanveer Yasir , Akram Umair , Akram Zubair
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of consumers’ attitudes towards organic food on online impulse buying behaviour as well as the moderating effect of three website features (visual, information and navigation design) on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data were collected via an online survey using social media platforms. A total of 653 online questionnaires were collected (response rate = 72.5 per cent) and analysed by applying exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses. The proposed hypotheses were tested through structural equation modelling.

Findings

Social media forums, ratings and reviews shape Chinese consumers’ attitudes towards organic food and positively influence their online impulse buying in this market. Website features are critical for disseminating information on organic food. Informative webpages featuring product quality and certification have a greater moderating effect on purchase. Information cues such as nutritional content; production and processing methods, and environmentally friendliness also influence consumers’ attitudes and thus impulse buying decisions.

Practical implications

Marketers should reconsider their tactics for dealing with modern consumers, as webpages should be user-friendly and visually appealing with a social learning mechanism to drive organic food consumption.

Originality/value

This study bridges a gap in the literature on social commerce initiatives for developing consumers’ attitudes towards organic food and online impulse buying. Further, it proposes measures that can enhance organic consumption and contributes to the literature on the importance of social factors, resulting in enhanced knowledge on the online impulse buying of organic food.
The influence of shopping on subjective well-being in China
Authors: Ni Shaowen , Ishii Kenichi
Published: January 2019

Purpose

With the development of the economy, Chinese consumers increasingly seek and emphasise hedonic value over utility value when shopping. The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between shopping and consumers’ subjective well-being (SWB), the mediation effect of interpersonal relationship satisfaction and the moderation effects of tradition-directedness and trust in strangers on this relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

This research includes two studies. Study 1 tested hypotheses regarding the effects of general shopping behaviours based on data from the 2012 Survey of the Chinese General Social Survey (n=5,210). Study 2 tested hypotheses regarding the effects of mall shopping based on a questionnaire survey conducted in 2016 (n=251).

Findings

Results showed that shopping promoted SWB and interpersonal relationship satisfaction mediated this correlation. Findings also revealed that both the direct effect of mall shopping on SWB and the indirect effect through interpersonal relationship satisfaction were contingent on the level of tradition-directedness; the direct effect was significant only at a low level of tradition-directedness. Trust in strangers moderated the effect of mall shopping on interpersonal relationship satisfaction.

Originality/value

The economy and society in China are changing tremendously, affecting consumers’ values and behaviour. This study highlights one aspect of this change, provides a framework for the exploration of the relationship between shopping and SWB and extends a new understanding of how Chinese consumers’ behaviours and lifestyles are associated.
How do relational variables affect export performance? Evidence from Malaysian exporters
Authors: Hasaballah Abdel Hafiez Ali , Genc Omer Faruk , Bin Mohamad Osman , Ahmed Zafar U.
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the influences of relational variables on export performance and the interactions among relational variables in the emerging market context of Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a mail questionnaire sent to Malaysian companies that export to Arab-speaking countries and achieved a response rate of 27.92 percent, resulting in a sample of 106 exporters.

Findings

The results of the path analyses indicate a positive impact of relational variables (adaptation, cooperation and communication) on export performance. However, the authors found that the impact was mediated by trust and commitment, rather than being direct.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that the impact of relational variables on export performance is complex and indirect. Mediators and moderators play important roles in this relationship.

Practical implications

Firms should invest in export relationships with the aim of building trust and commitment, which are the primary factors that affect export performance.

Originality/value

The authors have shed light on the way relational variables affect export performance. Moreover, this study contributes to a better understanding of small emerging markets, which are poorly represented in studies in this field.
The “right” wine taster
Authors: Juaneda-Ayensa Emma , Olarte-Pascual Cristina , Reinares-Lara Eva , Reinares-Lara Pedro
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The theory of emergent nature argues that the “right” people have a unique ability to imagine and envision how products might be developed so that they can be successful in the marketplace. The purpose of this paper is to apply this theory to the wine market to evaluate the ability of wine tasters with the “right” profile (i.e. high in emergent nature) to identify benefits applicable to the development of a new wine.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sequential studies were performed to collect data: a qualitative study of a sample of 44 professional wine tasters to identify the “right” profile and a quantitative study, with a sample of 1,126 consumers, to assess the value of the benefits proposed by the wine tasters in terms of purchase intention. The validation of the measurement model was carried out using the variance-based partial least squares (PLS) technique.

Findings

Two types of wine tasters were identified, normal and “right”. The “right” wine tasters were more and better able to develop arguments for the innovation and market orientation of the wine.

Practical implications

In the context of the wine market, identifying expert wine tasters with the “right” profile is a strategic option to improve innovation and market orientation in the development of commercially viable wines.

Originality/value

This pioneering research validates, in the wine market, a proven methodology used in other markets, which makes it possible to identify expert wine tasters high in emergent nature. These “right” expert tasters identify benefits that can have a decisive effect on purchase intention.
Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde: the strange case of the two selves of clandestine drug users in Scotland
Authors: McPhee Iain , Holligan Chris , McLean Robert , Deuchar Ross
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the hidden social worlds of competent clandestine users of drugs controlled within the confines of the UK Misuse of Drugs Act 1971, which now includes NPS substances. The authors explore how and in what way socially competent drug users differ from others who are visible to the authorities as criminals by criminal justice bureaucracies and known to treatment agencies as defined problem drug users.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative research utilises a bricoleur ethnographic methodology considered as a critical, multi-perspectival, multi-theoretical and multi-methodological approach to inquiry.

Findings

This paper challenges addiction discourses and, drawing upon empirical evidence, argues the user of controlled drugs should not be homogenised. Using several key strategies of identity management, drug takers employ a range of risk awareness and risk neutralisation techniques to protect self-esteem, avoid social affronts and in maintaining untainted identities. The authors present illicit drug use as one activity amongst other social activities that (some) people, conventionally, pursue. The findings from this study suggest that punitive drug policy, which links drug use with addiction, crime and antisocial behaviour, is inconsistent with the experience of the participants.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the small sample size (n=24) employed, the possibility that findings can be generalised is rendered difficult. However, generalisation was never an objective of the research; the experiences of this hidden population are deeply subjective and generalising findings and applying them to other populations would be an unproductive endeavour. While the research attempted to recruit an equal number of males and females to this research, gendered analysis was not a primary objective of this research. However, it is acknowledged that future research would greatly benefit from such a gendered focus.

Practical implications

The insights from the study may be useful in helping to inform future policy discourse on issues of drug use. In particular, the insights suggest that a more nuanced perspective should be adopted. This perspective should recognise the non-deviant identities of many drug users in the contemporary era, and challenge the use of a universally stigmatising discourse and dominance of prohibition narratives.

Social implications

It is envisaged that this paper will contribute to knowledge on how socially competent users of controlled drugs identify and manage the risks of moral, medical and legal censure.

Originality/value

The evidence in this paper indicates that drug use is an activity often associated with non-deviant, productive members of the population. However, the continuing dominance of stigmatising policy discourses often leads to drug users engaging in identity concealment within the context of a deeply capitalist Western landscape.
What is sober sex and how to achieve it?
Authors: Kunelaki Remziye
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide the first definition of sober sex and recommendations for health care professionals who work therapeutically with patients who struggle with intimacy after experiencing chemsex.

Design/methodology/approach

The recommendations are based on the clinical experience of a psychosexual therapist working with men having sex with men (MSM) in a Sexual Health clinic in central London.

Findings

The paper concludes that having a clear definition of sober sex and specific tools, such as healthy masturbation exercise, could prove helpful for health professionals who work with this cohort of patients.

Originality/value

This paper provides the first definition of sober sex and a clear set of guidelines for health professionals based on the clinical experience of the author.
Interpolatory model reduction for quadratic-bilinear systems using error estimators
Authors: Ahmad Mian Ilyas , Benner Peter , Feng Lihong
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an interpolation-based projection framework for model reduction of quadratic-bilinear systems. The approach constructs projection matrices from the bilinear part of the original quadratic-bilinear descriptor system and uses these matrices to project the original system.

Design/methodology/approach

The projection matrices are constructed by viewing the bilinear system as a linear parametric system, where the input associated with the bilinear part is treated as a parameter. The advantage of this approach is that the projection matrices can be constructed reliably by using an a posteriori error bound for linear parametric systems. The use of the error bound allows us to select a good choice of interpolation points and parameter samples for the construction of the projection matrices by using a greedy-type framework.

Findings

The results are compared with the standard quadratic-bilinear projection methods and it is observed that the approximations through the proposed method are comparable to the standard method but at a lower computational cost (offline time).

Originality/value

In addition to the proposed model order reduction framework, the authors extend the one-sided moment matching parametric model order reduction (PMOR) method to a two-sided method that doubles the number of moments matched in the PMOR method.
Fluid flow and heat transfer of a stratified system during natural convection – influence of chamfered corners
Authors: Rahimi Alireza , Surendar Aravindhan , Ibatova Aygul Z. , Kasaeipoor Abbas , Hasani Malekshah Emad
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the three-dimensional natural convection and entropy generation in the rectangular cuboid cavities included by chamfered triangular partition made by polypropylene.

Design/methodology/approach

The enclosure is filled by multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs)-H2O nanofluid and air as two immiscible fluids. The finite volume approach is used for computation. The fluid flow and heat transfer are considered with combination of local entropy generation due to fluid friction and heat transfer. Moreover, a numerical method is developed based on three-dimensional solution of Navier–Stokes equations.

Findings

Effects of side ratio of triangular partitions (SR = 0.5, 1 and 2), Rayleigh number (103 < Ra < 105) and solid volume fraction (f = 0.002, 0.004 and 0.01 Vol.%) of nanofluid are investigated on both natural convection characteristic and volumetric entropy generation. The results show that the partitions can be a suitable method to control fluid flow and energy consumption, and three-dimensional solutions renders more accurate results.

Originality/value

The originality of this work is to study the three-dimensional natural convection and entropy generation of a stratified system.
Moving beyond teaching excellence
Authors: Wood Phil , O’Leary Matt
Published: January 2019

Purpose

Teaching excellence remains a contested term in English higher education (HE). This paper begins by reflecting on its complex and sometimes blurred meaning, charting the divergence between academic interests in the complexity and contextual questions relating to practice development and organisational and sectoral shifts which have been driven by managerialism, accountability and “top-down” ideas of change. The authors argue that this divergence, epitomised in the development of the teaching excellence framework, has led to a confused, if ubiquitous, use of excellence to identify organisational and sector-led ideas of what it means to deliver quality teaching. However, these frameworks have become progressively detached from the complexity of practice investigated by those interested in pedagogy. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper which brings together literature from teaching excellence, organisational science, time and HE to develop an alternative approach to pedagogic development.

Findings

Based on a critique of the current, confused conceptualisation of teaching excellence, the authors offer a different narrative which demonstrates how a reconsideration of the factors is important in developing critical and challenging teaching opportunities. Based on a “bottom-up” system focusing on dialogue, sustainability and “unhasty” time, the authors argue for a re-establishing of a holistic approach in HE providers based on emergent pedagogies as opposed to teaching excellence.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates why teaching excellence has become conceptually fractured in an English context, and why a new approach to pedagogic development needs to be considered to establish a more positive and critical approach at both the institutional and sectoral levels. This paper outlines a possible approach to developing such renewal.
Rethinking teaching excellence in Australian higher education
Authors: Cooper Trudi
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore: why the concept of teaching excellence has been uncritically accepted into the lexicon of university management; and how it has been used to co-opt university teaching staff into supporting the myth that teaching quality can be maintained as financial support for teaching has declined.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is conceptual and analytical rather than empirical and a critical management perspective is adopted.

Findings

Per capita funding of university teaching has declined steadily. The concept of teaching excellence has been used to distract attention away from discussions about funding and the conditions required to promote good teaching in universities. The construction of teaching excellence as an attribute of individual teachers has co-opted university teachers into supporting the illusion that teaching quality can be maintained, despite falling organisational support and decreased funding.

Research limitations/implications

Teaching in universities can only be improved through changes to the management approach and maintenance of per capita funding, and ultimately democratisation of universities. This will require changes to the regulatory framework, and national policy.

Practical implications

The author concludes that teaching excellence is unhelpful as a concept. Instead the focus of discussion needs to return to ensuring that the necessary conditions for responsive teaching are in place.

Social implications

Democratise the workplace and management methods; adopt matrix management structures; Rebalance to focus on social benefit and public good.

Originality/value

This paper uncovers tensions, contradictions and missing elements in current policy and concludes with suggestions for change.
Does job embeddedness predict turnover intentions in SMEs?
Authors: Coetzer Alan , Inma Chutarat , Poisat Paul , Redmond Janice , Standing Craig
Published: January 2019

Purpose

There is an absence of research examining job embeddedness in SMEs. Results of job embeddedness studies may not apply to SMEs, because the process of managing a SME differs from that of the large firm. The purpose of this paper is to examine relationships between on-the-job embeddedness, as well as each of its sub-dimensions, and turnover intentions; and group cohesion, on-the-job embeddedness and turnover intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 147 employees in SMEs located in Perth, Western Australia and 350 employees from SMEs operating in four business centres in South Africa. After invariance testing, data from the two countries were combined to increase statistical power of the analysis.

Findings

On-the-job embeddedness and each sub-dimension were negatively related to turnover intentions. Group cohesion was positively related to composite on-the-job embeddedness. Findings suggest that while group cohesion on its own does not reduce turnover intentions, it does contribute to development of on-the-job embeddedness that, in turn, reduces turnover intentions.

Research limitations/implications

Future research should control for the effects of external influences on turnover intentions. Findings imply that managerial actions related to antecedents of group cohesion could foster the on-the-job embeddedness of employees.

Originality/value

This study is perhaps the first that tests the operation of on-the-job embeddedness in SMEs located in two countries. The conceptual arguments for links between each of the sub-dimensions of on-the-job embeddedness and turnover intentions are based on distinctive characteristics of SMEs and can serve as a theoretical foundation for future research on embeddedness in SMEs.
Evaluating the elements of just in time (JIT) for implementation in maintenance by exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Phogat Sandeep , Gupta Anil Kumar
Published: January 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a model (structural equation modeling (SEM)) from the 16 identified just in time (JIT) elements useful for implementation of JIT in maintenance.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using questionnaires posted to 421 manufacturing industries and automotive service industries in India from which 133 usable responses were obtained. First, exploratory factor analysis (EFA) is carried out to identify the factor structure after that confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) is carried out to verify the factor structure of a set of identified JIT elements. CFA is conceded by an SEM statistical technique. In this paper, EFA is applied to extract the factors in JIT implementation by the statistical package for social sciences (SPSS 24) software and confirming these factors by CFA through analysis of moment structures (AMOS 18) software.

Findings

Out of 18 identified JIT elements through literature and expert opinion only 16 JIT elements are selected for the study, two JIT elements removed due to the low value of correlation item-total correlation (CITC). Three factors extracted through EFA, which affects the benefits of JIT implementation in maintenance in quality improvement, production improvement and process control. SEM using AMOS 18.0 was used to perform the first-order three-factor structure (quality improvement, production improvement and process control) of the JIT implementation in maintenance.

Originality/value

The results will be useful for maintenance managers and maintenance professionals to understand the process of implementation of JIT in maintenance and to gain benefits after the implementation of JIT in maintenance in their respective organization.
Transparency and the rhetorical use of citations to Robert Yin in case study research
Authors: Massaro Maurizio , Dumay John , Bagnoli Carlo
Published: January 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse “how”, “why” and “where” authors use citations of Robert Yin’s classic text, Case Study Research: Design and Methods, to determine the application of methodological transparency in published case study research.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is conducted using a structured literature review methodology.

Findings

The results reveal problems of obliteration by incorporation, miscitations, appeals to ethos, rhetorical convenience and a shadow effect, also known as adumbration. The authors argue that case study research relying, either in full or in part, on Yin’s methodology should transparently describe how and which parts of the methodology have been applied. Thus, the conclusions signal some opportunities for improving transparency in the use of citations in case study research.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis highlights behaviours that may lead researchers to questionable findings due to a lack of methodological transparency in developing case study research, along with some recommendations for avoiding such problems. Improving transparency is useful for readers to understand what was done, for reviewers and editors to evaluate the research, and to guide other researchers who wish to conduct case study research.

Originality/value

This research compares citation practices in case study research in accounting and management with a focus on citations of Robert Yin. The results build on previous studies that analyse how scholars apply case study methodology that encourages researchers to adopt greater transparency.
Differential effects of climate warming on reproduction and functional responses on insects in the fourth trophic level
Authors: Chen Cong , Gols Rieta , Biere Arjen , Harvey Jeffrey A.
Published: January 2019

Understanding the effects of anthropogenic global warming (AGW) on species interactions is essential for predicting community responses to climate change. However, while effects of AGW on resource–consumer interactions at the first and second trophic level have been well studied, little is known about effects on interactions at higher trophic levels at the terminal end of food chains (e.g. in the third and fourth trophic levels).

Here, we examined the effects of temperature variability by simulating heatwaves on functional responses of two species at the fourth trophic level (hyperparasitoids) that parasitize host species at the third trophic level (parasitoid cocoons).

We found that host cocoons developed faster under simulated heatwave conditions, decreasing the temporal window of susceptibility of the host cocoons to parasitism by the two hyperparasitoids, and consequently parasitism declined with temperature. However, the effects of a simulated heatwave markedly differed among the two hyperparasitoid species; temperature and host quality had a much stronger effect on early reproduction in the less fecund hyperparasitoid Gelis agilis, than in the more fecund species Acrolyta nens.

Our results suggest that exposure to heatwaves, that are expected to increase in frequency, will affect the ability of species at higher trophic levels to exploit transient resources whose suitability is temperature‐dependent. In turn, the observed effects of AGW on the functional responses of the hyperparasitoids may disrupt trophic interactions and have profound impact on population dynamics and ecological processes.

A plain language summary is available for this article.
Inpatient care experiences differ by preferred language within racial/ethnic groups
Authors: Quigley Denise D. , Elliott Marc N. , Hambarsoomian Katrin , Wilson‐Frederick Shondelle M. , Lehrman William G. , Agniel Denis , Ng Judy H. , Goldstein Elizabeth H. , Giordano Laura A. , Martino Steven C.
Published: January 2019

Objective

To describe differences in patient experiences of hospital care by preferred language within racial/ethnic groups.

Data Source

2014‐2015 HCAHPS survey data.

Study Design

We compared six composite measures for seven languages (English, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, Vietnamese, and Other) within applicable subsets of five racial/ethnic groups (Hispanics, Asian/Pacific Islanders, American Indian/Alaska Natives, Blacks, and Whites). We measured patient‐mix adjusted overall, between‐ and within‐hospital differences in patient experience by language, using linear regression.

Data Collection Methods

Surveys from 5 480 308 patients discharged from 4517 hospitals 2014‐2015.

Principal Findings

Within each racial/ethnic group, mean reported experiences for non‐English‐preferring patients were almost always worse than their English‐preferring counterparts. Language differences were largest and most consistent for Care Coordination. Within‐hospital differences by language were often larger than between‐hospital differences and were largest for Care Coordination. Where between‐hospital differences existed, non‐English‐preferring patients usually attended hospitals whose average patient experience scores for all patients were lower than the average scores for the hospitals of their English‐preferring counterparts.

Conclusions

Efforts should be made to increase access to better hospitals for language minorities and improve care coordination and other facets of patient experience in hospitals with high proportions of non‐English‐preferring patients, focusing on cultural competence and language‐appropriate services.
Occurrence and molecular identification of the zoysiagrass mite Aceria zoysiae (Acari: Eriophyidae) in turfgrasses in Korea
Authors: Jung Duck‐Oung , Park Dae‐Sup , Shim Jae‐Kyoung , Lee Sukchan , Pyee Jaeho , Lee Kyeong‐Yeoll
Published: January 2019

Mites are one of the serious pests of turfgrass. Our survey of turfgrass fields from 2013 to 2015 in Korea showed that the occurrence of leaf chlorotic symptom has gradually extended to at least 60% of the examined golf courses. We identified the zoysiae mite Aceria zoysiae in most damaged zoysiagrasses. Artificial infestation of A. zoysiae into zoysiagrasses in pots resulted in symptoms of chlorosis and marginal rolling of the leaves within 3 weeks. We firstly determined the nucleotide sequence of mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) and internal transcribed spacer 2 (ITS2) of the nuclear ribosomal DNA region of A. zoysiae. The variations in COI and ITS2 between A. zoysiae and other species of the genus were 20.9%–43.0% and 7.5%–67.3%, respectively, suggesting significant genetic divergence within the genus. Our study provides valuable information for the rapid diagnosis and infestation monitoring of A. zoysiae in turfgrass fields.
Measurement‐based care using DSM‐5 for opioid use disorder: can we make opioid medication treatment more effective?
Authors: Marsden John , Tai Betty , Ali Robert , Hu Lian , Rush A. John , Volkow Nora
Published: January 2019

Context and Purpose

Measurement‐based care (MBC) is an evidence‐based health‐care practice in which indicators of disease are tracked to inform clinical actions, provide feedback to patients and improve outcomes. The current opioid crisis in multiple countries provides a pressing rationale for adopting a basic MBC approach for opioid use disorder (OUD) using DSM‐5 to increase treatment retention and effectiveness.

Proposal

To stimulate debate, we propose a basic MBC approach using the 11 symptoms of OUD (DSM‐5) to inform the delivery of medications for opioid use disorder (MOUD; including methadone, buprenorphine and naltrexone) and their evaluation in office‐based primary care and specialist clinics. Key features of a basic MBC approach for OUD using DSM‐5 are described, with an illustration of how clinical actions are guided and outcomes communicated. For core treatment tasks, we propose that craving and drug use response to MOUD should be assessed after 2 weeks, and OUD remission status should be evaluated at 3, 6 and 12 months (and exit from MOUD treatment) and beyond. Each of the 11 DSM‐5 symptoms of OUD should be discussed with the patient to develop a case formulation and guide selection of adjunctive psychological interventions, supplemented with information on substance use, and optionally extended with information from other clinical instruments. A patient‐reported outcome measure should be recorded and discussed at each remission assessment.

Conclusions

MBC can be used to tailor and adapt MOUD treatment to increase engagement, retention and effectiveness. MBC practice principles can help promote patient‐centred care in OUD, personalized addiction therapeutics and facilitate communication of outcomes.
Young adult longitudinal patterns of marijuana use among US National samples of 12th grade frequent marijuana users: a repeated‐measures latent class analysis
Authors: Terry‐McElrath Yvonne M. , O'Malley Patrick M. , Johnston Lloyd D. , Schulenberg John E.
Published: January 2019

Background and Aims

Long‐term frequent marijuana use is associated with significant negative outcomes, yet little is known about the longitudinal course of marijuana use among those who start frequent use during adolescence. Objectives are (a) to identify latent patterns of within‐person marijuana use from ages 19–30 years among 12th graders reporting frequent marijuana use, (b) to examine if membership in identified patterns has changed across historical time and (c) to examine if key covariates differentiate class membership.

Design, Setting, Participants

Longitudinal, national US panel data from 4423 individuals [53.4% of the eligible sample; 2744 (62%) males] who reported frequent marijuana use in 12th grade (modal age 18 years; senior year cohorts 1976–2006) followed biennially from ages 19/20 to 29/30.

Measurements

Self‐reported past 30‐day marijuana use (frequent use defined as use on 20+ occasions), demographics, college graduation, marriage and parenthood.

Findings

Repeated‐measures latent class analysis (RMLCA) identified five latent classes of past 30‐day marijuana use from ages 19/20 to 29/30: continued frequent users (estimated membership 23.4%); frequent to non‐frequent users (15.5%); consistent non‐frequent users (18.4%); non‐frequent users to discontinuers (19.5%); and discontinuers (23.2%). In multivariable models, membership in the highest‐risk latent class (continued frequent users) versus one or more of the lower‐risk latent classes was more likely for recent cohorts (P = 0.038 to <0.001), as well as those who did not marry (P = 0.039 to < 0.001) or become parents (P = 0.001) by modal age 29/30.

Conclusions

Nearly one in four 12th grade (modal age 18 years) frequent marijuana users in the US continues to report high frequency use to age 30; the proportion continuing high frequency use across young adulthood has increased among more recent cohorts.
Root canal preparation in mandibular premolars with TRUShape and Vortex Blue: A micro‐computed tomography study
Authors: Jensen Lauren E. , Murphy Sarah , Williamson Anne E. , Teixeira Fabricio B. , Johnson William T. , Friedl Christopher C. , Peters Ove A.
Published: January 2019

A comparison of the preparation ability of two root canal instrumentation systems in oval‐shaped canals using micro‐computed tomography was undertaken. Thirty extracted, single‐rooted, human mandibular premolars with radiographically similar canal morphology were selected, allocated to two groups (N = 15) and prepared with TRUShape or Vortex Blue (VB). Each sample was subjected to three scans (20 μm resolution): pre‐preparation and after preparation to sizes #30 and #40. Three‐dimensional data sets were evaluated for canal volume, surface area and surface treatment. Matched axial slices in apical, middle and coronal root thirds were evaluated for cross‐sectional area, roundness and transportation. Preparation with both instruments increased canal volumes and surface areas similarly and significantly (P < 0.001) with no significant difference between groups. TRUShape significantly enhanced surface treatment at both apical sizes (P < 0.05). Transportation exceeded 100 μm in only eight out of 90 cross sections. Both instruments performed similarly during preparation. TRUShape, however, significantly enhanced surface treatment.
Histological analysis of different local haemostatic agents used for periapical surgery: An experimental study with Sprague‐Dawley rats
Authors: Mena‐Álvarez Jesús , Quispe‐López Norberto , Zubizarreta‐Macho Álvaro , Rico‐Romano Cristina , Rodero‐Villanueva Rosa , Fernández‐Aceñero María Jesús
Published: January 2019

The aim of the present study was to analyse differences in the tissue response to the different haemostatic agents used for periapical surgery (BloodSTOP iX® (oxicellulose), Expazen® (aluminum chloride), calcium sulphate (CS), Gelatamp® (gelatin sponge) and Hemocor® (ferric sulphate). Seventy‐two bone defects were made on the calvarium of 36 Sprague‐Dawley rats. The specimens were euthanised at 3, 6 and 12 weeks. Histological analysis revealed a giant cell foreign body reaction against BloodStop iX®, Gelatamp® and Hemocor®. Leukocytes persisted at the surgical bed during the healing process longer as expected with Gelatamp® (6 weeks) and Hemocor® (12 weeks). We confirmed a generalised delay in bone formation. Calcium sulphate did not cause any foreign body reaction. CS showed excellent results with a high degree of compatibility, there was no inflammatory reaction with this agent after 12 weeks and was not associated with a significant foreign body reaction at any time during the study.