bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
s-aligner: a greedy algorithm for non-greedy de novo genome assembly
Authors: Bermúdez Juanjo
Published: February 2021

Genome assembly is a fundamental tool for biological research. Particularly, in microbiology, where budgets per sample are often scarce, it can make the difference between an inconclusive result and a fully valid conclusion. Identifying new strains or estimating the relative abundance of quasi-species in a sample are some example tasks that can’t be properly accomplished without previously generating assemblies with little structure ambiguity and covering most of the genome. In this work, we present a new genome assembly tool based on a greedy strategy. We compare the results obtained applying this tool to the results obtained with previously existing software. We find that, when applied to viral studies, comparatively, the software we developed often gets far larger contigs and higher genome fraction coverage than previous software. We also find a significant advantage when applied to exceptionally large virus genomes.
Characterization ofPoldip2knockout mice: avoiding incorrect gene targeting
Authors: Lassègue Bernard , Kumar Sandeep , Mandavilli Rohan , Wang Keke , Tsai Michelle , Kang Dong-Won , Hernandes Marina S. , Martín Alejandra San , Jo Hanjoong , Taylor W. Robert , Griendling Kathy K.
Published: February 2021

POLDIP2 is a multifunctional protein whose roles are only partially understood. Our laboratory previously reported physiological studies performed using a mouse gene trap model, which suffered from two limitations: perinatal lethality in homozygotes and constitutivePoldip2inactivation. To overcome these limitations, we developed a new conditional floxedPoldip2model. The first part of the present study shows that our initial floxed mice were affected by an unexpected mutation, which was not readily detected by Southern blotting and traditional PCR. It consisted of a 305 kb duplication aroundPoldip2with retention of the wild type allele and could be traced back to the original targeted ES cell clone. We offer simple suggestions to rapidly detect similar accidents, which may affect genome editing using both traditional and CRISPR-based methods. In the second part of the present study, correctly targeted floxedPoldip2mice were generated and used to produce a new constitutive knockout line by crossing with a Cre deleter. In contrast to the gene trap model, many homozygous knockout mice were viable, in spite of having no POLDIP2 expression. To further characterize the effects ofPoldip2ablation in the vasculature, an RNA-seq experiment was performed in constitutive knockout carotid arteries. Results support the involvement of POLDIP2 in multiple cellular processes and provide new opportunities for future in-depth study of its functions.
Cellular Reprogramming in Bursts and Phases
Authors: Alicea Bradly
Published: February 2021

As a biochemical process, direct cellular reprogramming is slow and complex. The early stages of this process is the most critical determinant of successful phenotypic conversion. This study provides insight into the statistical signatures that describe temporal structure in the reprogramming process. We examine two sources of variation in reprogramming cells: clonal instances from various tissues of origin and rate of expansion between these lines. Our analytical strategy involved modeling the potential of populations to reprogram, and then applying statistical models to capture this potential in action. This two-fold approach utilizes both conventional and novel techniques that allow us to infer and confirm a host of properties that define the phenomenon. These results can be summarized in a number of ways, and essentially suggest that reprogramming is organized around changes in gene expression phenotype (phases) which happens sporadically across a cellular population (bursts).
Evolutionary modelling of HCV subtypes provides rationale for their different disease outcomes
Authors: Zhang Hang , Quadeer Ahmed A. , McKay Matthew R.
Published: February 2021

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is a leading cause of liver-associated disease and liver cancer. Of the major HCV subtypes, patients infected with subtype 1b have been associated with having a higher risk of developing chronic infection, cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. However, underlying reasons for this increased disease severity remain unknown. Here, we provide an evolutionary rationale, based on a comparative study of fitness landscape and in-host evolutionary models of the envelope glycoprotein 2 (E2) of HCV subtypes 1a and 1b. Our analysis demonstrates that a higher chronicity rate of subtype 1b may be attributed to lower fitness constraints, enabling 1b viruses to more easily escape antibody responses. More generally, our results suggest that differences in evolutionary constraints between HCV subtypes may be an important factor in mediating distinct disease outcomes. Our analysis also identifies antibodies that appear to be escape-resistant against both subtypes 1a and 1b, providing directions for the design of HCV vaccines having cross-subtype protection.
Life and work of researchers trapped in the COVID-19 pandemic vicious cycle
Authors: Ghaffarizadeh S. Aryan , Ghaffarizadeh S. Arman , Behbahani Amir H. , Mehdizadeh Mohammad , Olechowski Alison
Published: February 2021

Abstract

COVID-19 has disrupted researchers’ work and posed challenges to their life routines. We have surveyed 740 researchers of which 66% experienced a decrease in productivity, 50% indicated increased workload, and 66% reported they have been feeling internal pressure to make progress. Those whose research required physical presence in a lab or the field experienced considerable disruption and productivity decrease. About 82% of this group will try to permanently reduce their work dependency on physical presence. Parents and those taking care of vulnerable dependents have been spending less time on research due to their role conflict. We further observed a gender gap in the overall disruption consequences; more female researchers have been experiencing a reduction in productivity and external pressure to make progress. The results of this study can help institution leaders and policymakers better understand the pandemic’s challenges for the research community and motivate appropriate measures to instill long-term solutions.
MTHFD2 is a Metabolic Checkpoint Controlling Effector and Regulatory T Cell Fate and Function
Authors: Sugiura Ayaka , Andrejeva Gabriela , Voss Kelsey , Heintzman Darren R. , Beier Katherine L. , Wolf Melissa M. , Greenwood Dalton , Ye Xiang , Shahi Shailesh K. , Freedman Samantha N. , Cameron Alanna M. , Foerch Patrik , Bourne Tim , Xu Xincheng , Garcia-Canaveras Juan C. , Mangalam Ashutosh K. , Rabinowitz Joshua D. , Rathmell Jeffrey C.
Published: February 2021

Antigenic stimulation promotes T cells metabolic reprogramming to meet increased biosynthetic, bioenergetic, and signaling demands. We show that the one-carbon (1C) metabolism enzyme Methylenetetrahydrofolate Dehydrogenase-2 (MTHFD2) is highly expressed in inflammatory diseases and induced in activated T cells to promote proliferation and produce inflammatory cytokines. In pathogenic Th17 cells, MTHFD2 also prevented aberrant upregulation of FoxP3 and suppressive capacity. Conversely, MTHFD2-deficiency enhanced lineage stability of regulatory T (Treg) cells. Mechanistically, MTHFD2 maintained cellular 10-formyltetrahydrofolate forde novopurine synthesis and MTHFD2 inhibition led to accumulation of the intermediate 5-aminoimidazole carboxamide ribonucleotide that was associated with decreased mTORC1 signaling. MTHFD2 was also required for proper histone de-methylation in Th17 cells. Importantly, inhibiting MTHFD2in vivoreduced disease severity in Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis and Delayed-Type Hypersensitivity. MTHFD2 induction is thus a metabolic checkpoint for pathogenic effector cells that suppresses anti-inflammatory Treg cells and is a potential therapeutic target within 1C metabolism.
Large portion of essential genes is missed by screening either fly or beetle indicating unexpected diversity of insect gene function
Authors: Hakeemi Muhammad Salim , Ansari Salim , Teuscher Matthias , Weißkopf Matthias , Großmann Daniela , Kessel Tobias , Dönitz Jürgen , Siemanowski Janna , Wan Xuebin , Schultheis Dorothea , Frasch Manfred , Roth Siegfried , Schoppmeier Michael , Klingler Martin , Bucher Gregor
Published: February 2021

Most gene functions were detected by screens in very few model organisms but it has remained unclear how comprehensive these data are. Here, we expanded our RNAi screen in the red flour beetleTribolium castaneumto cover more than half of the protein-coding genes and we compared the gene sets involved in several processes between beetle and fly.

We find that around 50 % of the gene functions are detected in both species while the rest was found only in fly (~10%) or beetle (~40%) reflecting both technical and biological differences. We conclude that work in complementary model systems is required to gain a comprehensive picture on gene functions documented by the annotation of novel GO terms for 96 genes studied here. The RNAi screening resources developed in this project, the expanding transgenic tool-kit and our large-scale functional data makeT. castaneuman excellent model system in that endeavor.
‘Phytopathological strolls’ in the dual context of COVID-19 lockdown and IYPH2020: transforming constraints into an opportunity for public education about plant pathogens
Authors: Suffert Frédéric , Suffert Muriel
Published: February 2021

The experience presented here relates to 2020, a particularly timely year for plant disease-related communication (‘International Year of Plant Health’ IYPH2020), but also a unique year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. Our goal was to illustrate the diversity and beauty of fungal plant pathogens through a naturalist approach that could be followed by any amateur. We achieved this end through ‘phytopathological strolls’, in which we observed and determined the origin of symptoms on diseased plants found in our garden, in the local streets, in nearby open spaces, and sharing this matter with a broad public. The lockdown imposed in France created an additional motivation to take up the challenge, and to involve our children, even under strong constraints, such as movement restrictions. We observed and described fungal pathogens through hundreds of photographs, shared our findings with a large audience on Twitter, and received feedback. The material used was deliberately simple and transportable: a digital reflex camera, an old microscope, a mobile phone, some books and an Internet connexion. Between March 17, 2020 and June 20, 2021 we found 196 plant pathogens, including 97 rusts, 27 powdery mildews and 28 septoria-like diseases. We discuss here the importance of promoting searches for plant pathogens, their description and conservation, through a combination of classical approaches and digital tools in tune with the times, such as Twitter, by treating pathogen identification like a detective game and, more surprisingly, by making use of the addictive nature of collection approaches, drawing a parallel with Pokémon Go.
A programmable pAgo nuclease with universal guide and target specificity from the mesophilic bacteriumKurthia massiliensis
Authors: Kropocheva Ekaterina , Kuzmenko Anton , Aravin Alexei A. , Esyunina Daria , Kulbachinskiy Andrey
Published: February 2021

Argonaute proteins are programmable nucleases that are found in both eukaryotes and prokaryotes and provide defense against invading genetic elements. Although some prokaryotic Argonautes (pAgos) were shown to recognize RNA targetsin vitro, the majority of studied pAgos have strict specificity toward DNA, which limits their practical use in RNA-centric applications. Here, we describe a unique KmAgo nuclease from the mesophilic bacteriumKurthia massiliensisthat can be programmed with either DNA or RNA guides and can precisely cleave both DNA and RNA targets. KmAgo preferentially binds 16-20 nt long 5′-phosphorylated guide molecules with no strict specificity for their sequence and is active in a wide range of temperatures. In bacterial cells, KmAgo is loaded with small DNAs with no obvious sequence preferences suggesting that it can uniformly target genomic sequences. Target cleavage by KmAgo depends on the formation of secondary structure indicating that KmAgo can be used for structural probing of RNA targets. Mismatches between the guide and target sequences greatly affect the efficiency and precision of target cleavage, depending on the mismatch position and the nature of the reacting nucleic acid. These properties of KmAgo open the way for its use for highly specific nucleic acid detection and cleavage.
Three-dimensional interactions between integrated HPV genomes and cellular chromatin dysregulate host gene expression in early cervical carcinogenesis
Authors: Groves Ian J , Drane Emma LA , Michalski Marco , Monahan Jack M , Scarpini Cinzia G , Smith Stephen P , Bussotti Giovanni , Várnai Csilla , Schoenfelder Stefan , Fraser Peter , Enright Anton J , Coleman Nicholas
Published: February 2021

Development of cervical cancer is directly associated with integration of human papillomavirus (HPV) genomes into host chromosomes and subsequent modulation of HPV oncogene expression, which correlates with multi-layered epigenetic changes at the integrated HPV genomes. However, the process of integration itself and dysregulation of host gene expression at sites of integration in our model of HPV16 integrant clone natural selection has remained enigmatic. We now show, using a state-of-the-art ‘HPV integrated site capture’ (HISC) technique, that integration likely occurs through microhomology-mediated repair (MHMR) mechanisms via either a direct process, resulting in host sequence deletion (in our case, partially homozygously) or via a ‘looping’ mechanism by which flanking host regions become amplified. Furthermore, using our ‘HPV16-specific Region Capture Hi-C’ technique, we have determined that three-dimensional (3D) interactions between the integrated virus genome and host chromosomes, both at short- (<500 kbp) and long-range (>500 kbp), appear to drive host gene dysregulation through the disruption of local host:host 3D interactions known as topologically associating domains (TADs). This mechanism of HPV-induced host gene expression modulation indicates that integration of virus genomes near to or within a ‘cancer-causing gene’ is not essential to influence such genes within an entire TAD and that these modifications to 3D interactions could have a major role in selection of HPV integrants at the early stage of cervical neoplastic progression.
Voltage-Gated Potassium Channel Kv1.3 as a Therapeutic Target for Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Li Weiwei , Wilson Gregory C. , Bachmann Magdalena , Wang Jiang , Mattarei Andrea , Paradisi Cristina , Edwards Michael J. , Szabo Ildiko , Gulbins Erich , Ahmad Syed A. , Patel Sameer H.
Published: February 2021

The mitochondrial voltage-gated potassium channel, Kv1.3, has been emerged as an attractive oncologic target but its function in pancreas cancer (PDAC) is unknown. In this study we evaluated tissue expression of Kv1.3 in resected PDAC from 55 patients and tumor inhibition in orthotopic mouse models using the recently developed Kv1.3 inhibitorsPCARBTPandPAPTP. Immunohistochemistry of 55 human PDAC specimens showed that all tumors expressed Kv1.3 with 60% of tumor specimens having high Kv1.3 expression. In pancreas tumor models (Pan02 cells injected into C57BL/6 mice),PCARBTPandPAPTPtreatment resulted in tumor reductions of 87% and 70%, respectively. When combined with gemcitabine/abraxane, this increased to 95% and 80% without resultant organ toxicity.In vivomodels indicatedPCARBTP-mediated cell death occurred through the p38-MAPK pathway. In vitro-generated resistant clones toPCARBTPescaped cell death through upregulation of the anti-oxidant system as determined using SWATH-MS analysis. These data show Kv1.3 is highly expressed in resected human PDAC and the use of novel mitochondrial Kv1.3 inhibitors combined with cytotoxic chemotherapies might be novel, effective treatment for PDAC.
Specialization and selective social attention establishes the balance between individual and social learning
Authors: Wu Charley M. , Ho Mark K. , Kahl Benjamin , Leuker Christina , Meder Björn , Kurvers Ralf H.J.M.
Published: February 2021

A key question individuals face in any social learning environment is when to innovate alone and when to imitate others. Previous simulation results have found that the best performing groups exhibit an intermediate balance, yet it is still largely unknown how individuals collectively negotiate this balance. We use an immersive collective foraging experiment, implemented in the Minecraft game engine, facilitating unprecedented access to spatial trajectories and visual field data. The virtual environment imposes a limited field of view, creating a natural trade-off between allocating visual attention towards individual search or to look towards peers for social imitation. By analyzing foraging patterns, social interactions (visual and spatial), and social influence, we shine new light on how groups collectively adapt to the fluctuating demands of the environment through specialization and selective imitation, rather than homogeneity and indiscriminate copying of others.
Down Regulation Of IL-1β Secretion By Tgf-β1 In Macrophages Infected With Dengue Virus
Authors: Ramírez-Aguero Brenda , Serrato-Salas Javier , Montiel-Hernández José Luis , González-Christen Judith
Published: February 2021

Several pathogenic mechanisms have been linked to the severity of dengue virus infection, like viral cytotoxicity, underlying host genetics and comorbidities such as diabetes and dyslipidemia. It has been observed that patients with severe manifestations develop an uncontrolled immune response, with an increase in pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF, IL-1β, IL-8, IL-6 and chemokines that damage the human microvascular endothelium, and also in anti-inflammatory cytokines IL-4, IL-10 and TGF-β1. The role of TGF-β1 on dengue is not clear; few studies have been published, and most of them from patient sera data, with both protective and pathological roles have described. The aim of this study was to evaluate the ability of TGF-β1 to regulate the secretion of IL-1β in macrophages infected by DENV using THP-1 cells treated with recombinant TGF-β1 before or after DENV infection. By RT-PCR we did not observe a difference in IL-1β expression between infected cells pretreated with TGF-β1 and those that were not. However, secretion of IL-1β was reduced only in cells stimulated with TGF-β1 before infection, and not in those treated 2 hours post-infection. TGF-β1 receptor blockage with SB505124 inhibitor, prior to the addition of TGF-β1 and infection, abrogated the inhibitory effect of TGF-β1. Our results suggest that DENV could regulate the function of TGF-β1 on macrophages. This negative regulation of the TGF-β1 pathway could be used by DENV to evade the immune response and could contribute to the immunopathology.
Millennials and Generation Z: a generational cohort analysis of Indian consumers
Authors: Thangavel Packiaraj , Pathak Pramod , Chandra Bibhas
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Young consumers are recognized as an important and lucrative segment for the businesses across the globe. While initial steps have been taken to understand them, majority of the existing works consider both Millennials and Generation Z as a single and homogeneous market segment. The purpose of this study is to explore the consumer decision-making styles which are prevalent among Indian Millennials and Generation Z e-shoppers, and how significantly they differ from one another on each of those decision-making attributes.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory study used the generational cohort theory (GCT) as a framework. The psychographic statements (Questionnaire items) employed were adopted from several past researches on store orientation and catalog orientation, and they were rephrased to suit to the context of Indian online shopping. The principal components factor analysis with promax rotation has been used to unearth the underlying decision-styles among 503 survey participants. Subsequently, the ANOVA model was run to examine the mean differences between the cohorts.

Findings

The factor analysis has revealed that frugality (Price), convenience (Home) and social desirableness are the most dominant shopping orientations (decision-styles) that prevail among Indian (Millennials and Generation Z) online shoppers though in varying degrees. The probing of ANOVA results suggested that, though both the cohorts favor e-shopping, Generation Z are more enthusiastic about online shopping than their Millennial counterparts do.

Practical implications

Though Generation Z and Millennials share few characteristics between them, they exhibit different consumer behaviors. Marketers need to customize their value offerings and marketing communications that resonate well with each generational cohort.

Originality/value

Almost all the existing research works that have been conducted so far on generational cohorts are from Western and European countries and one could confidently say that those findings cannot be applied for the developing nations such as India which is a complex and diverse country in terms of its language, custom, religion and practices with troublesome pasts. Moreover, this is the first empirical work to be conducted to unearth the generational differences that exist between Generation Z and Millennials to the best of authors' knowledge.
Seller experience assessment in online marketplace: a scale development study
Authors: Kumar Amresh , Sikdar Pallab , Saha Raiswa
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Recent decade has witnessed exponential growth in e-commerce segment, leading to emergence of various online selling platforms catering to diverse product requirements of customers. Such a development has provided impetus to both existing businesses and newly established ventures to make available their offerings through online selling platforms with a view to improve the reach of their products. This study is an attempt to identify the experience of registered vendors with the online marketplaces. It aims to develop and validate a scale to measure vendor's experience with e-commerce platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

As a part of the scale development process, relevant literature sources were scanned to spot the precise knowledge gap and to put in place a sound theoretical background for the study. Thereafter, a scientific approach was adopted for scale creation. First, the scale items were identified through interviews of vendors registered with major online selling platforms and other academic experts pertaining to the marketing domain. Subsequently, major dimensions of seller experience were identified through exploratory factor analysis (EFA) applied on data collected from active vendors by the means of a structured survey instrument. The final data set was subjected to confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) in a bid to validate the scale.

Findings

The study’s outcomes reveal that seller experience in an online marketplace can be best captured by a multidimensional scale characterized by six major dimensions. These are “Registration,”; “Product Listing”; “Pricing Autonomy”; “Ease of Pick-up and Delivery”; “Credit of Receivables” and “Vendor Assistance.” A proper emphasis to continually improve upon these dimensions by the e-commerce platforms is expected to enhance the utility and overall experience of vendors from such platforms. Existence of a mutually beneficial relationship between vendors and online marketplaces will help marketplaces to mitigate concerns like nonfulfillment of orders and dispatch of substandard products.

Originality/value

Sustainable long-term relations between vendors and online marketplaces hold the key for such marketplaces to render error-free and delightful service on each individual order received. Seller experience of registering and operating on such e-marketplaces inspite of playing a defining role in vendor–marketplace relations has received scant attention of researchers, both in academia and industry till date. The present research is a seminal attempt to address this gap in marketing literature and offer additional know-how.
Disrupting board appointments: Australia's governance guidelines and gender capital
Authors: Sheridan Alison , Lord Linley , Ross-Smith Anne
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify how board recruitment processes have been impacted by the Australian Securities Exchange (ASX) governance changes requiring listed boards to report annually on their gender diversity policy and profile.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a social constructivist approach, the research analyses interviews conducted with matched samples of board directors and stakeholders in 2010 and 2017 about board recruitment in ASX50 companies.

Findings

The introduction of ASX guidelines requiring gender reporting disrupted traditional board appointment processes. Women's gender capital gained currency, adding an additional dimension to the high levels of human and social capital seen as desirable for board appointments. The politics of women's presence is bringing about changes to the discourse and practice about who should/can be a director. The authors identify highly strategic ways in which women's gender capital has been used to agitate for more women to be appointed to boards.

Research limitations/implications

While sample sizes are small, data within the themes cohered meaningfully across the time periods, making visible how women's presence in the board room has been reframed. Future research could consider what this may mean for board dynamics and how enduring are these changes.

Practical implications

This study highlights the forms that human and social capital take in board appointments, which can be instructive for potential directors, and how these intersect with gender capital. The insights from the study are relevant to board recruitment committees seeking to reflect their commitment to a more gender equitable environment.

Originality/value

There has been a recalibration of men's and women's gender capital in board appointments, and there is now a currency in femaleness disrupting the historical privilege afforded “maleness”.
Multiculturalism, positive psychological capital and students' entrepreneurial intentions
Authors: Maslakcı Ahmet , Sesen Harun , Sürücü Lütfi
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Globalisation has made higher education increasingly multicultural. Although multicultural university students' attitudes and interactions with different cultures affect their academic success as well as entrepreneurial intentions, only a few studies have analysed this topic. Therefore, this study examined the assumption that positive psychological capital (PsyCap) mediates the relationship between attitudes towards multiculturalism and entrepreneurial intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

A model was proposed and empirically tested 564 university students in Northern Cyprus. Data were analysed using SPSS 23 and AMOS 18 using the PROCESS Macro and Bootstrap methods.

Findings

The results indicated that improving university students' attitudes towards multiculturalism will have a beneficial effect on their entrepreneurial intentions. Moreover, PsyCap is a mediator variable on the relationship between multicultural attitudes and entrepreneurial intentions.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the literature by theoretically and empirically examining how attitudes towards multiculturalism and PsyCap impact university students' entrepreneurial intentions. Its limitations can be overcome through future research.

Practical implications

The study's findings are valid in two areas: (1) assisting policymakers, researchers and academics to better understand the critical influence of university students' attitudes towards multiculturalism on their entrepreneurial intentions, particularly since this topic had not been extensively studied; (2) advancing theoretical discussions by examining the positive effects of internal factors such as PsyCap in terms of multicultural attitudes and entrepreneurial intentions.

Social implications

The study provides empirical evidence that academics and university administrators should pay attention to multicultural attitudes to increase university students' entrepreneurial intentions. Hence, it focused on the relationship between multicultural society, entrepreneurial intentions, and PsyCap.

Originality/value

Attitudes towards multiculturalism influence students' entrepreneurial intentions through PsyCap. The context of cultural values and multiculturalism determines the premises of entrepreneurial intentions. This study is unique and innovative as it brings a new focus to academic literature.
Development of parametric garment pattern design system
Authors: Kang Yeonghoon , Oh Jihyun , Kim Sungmin
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The development of a parametric garment pattern design system that utilizes anthropometric data for consumer-oriented garment pattern design.

Design/methodology/approach

Action list and interactive user interface were developed to design flat garment patterns. Three-dimensional drape simulation was also implemented to verify the fit of patterns.

Findings

Patterns generated by the parametric design system developed in this study could be modified easily by providing appropriate anthropometric data regardless of their complexities.

Practical implications

Parametric pattern design system can reduce considerable amount of time and cost by replacing the trial-and-error based grading processes.

Social implications

Parametric pattern design system can generate customized garment patterns quickly and easily. Therefore, it is expected to contribute to the production of sustainable fashion and textile by reducing the loss of time and resource.

Originality/value

A versatile and comprehensive action list structure was implemented to manage the drawing actions of the user. Various numerical analysis methods were also used to maintain the geometrical validity of patterns.
Lean resilience: AURA (Active Usage of Resilience Assets) framework for post-COVID-19 supply chain management
Authors: Ivanov Dmitry
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Supply chain resilience capabilities are usually considered in light of some anticipated events and are as passive assets, which are “waiting” for use in case of an emergency. This, however, can be inefficient. Moreover, the current COVID-19 pandemic has revealed difficulties in the timely deployments of resilience assets and their utilization for value creation. We present a framework that consolidates different angles of efficient resilience and renders utilization of resilience capabilities for creation of value.

Design/methodology/approach

We conceptualise the design of the AURA (Active Usage of Resilience Assets) framework for post-COVID-19 supply chain management through collating the extant literature on value creation-oriented resilience and practical examples and complementing our analysis with a discussion of practical implementations.

Findings

Building upon and integrating the existing frameworks of VSC (Viable Supply Chain), RSC (Reconfigurable Supply Chain) and LCNSC (Low-Certainty-Need Supply Chain), we elaborate on a new idea in the AURA approach – to consider resilience as an inherent, active and value-creating component of operations management decisions, rather than as a passive “shield” to protect against rare, severe events. We identify 10 future research areas for lean resilience integrating management and digital platforms and technology.

Practical implications

The outcomes of our study can be used by supply chain and operations managers to improve the efficiency and effectiveness by turning resilience from passive, cost-driving assets into a value-creating, inclusive decision-making paradigm.

Originality/value

We propose a novel approach to bring more dynamics to the notion of supply chain resilience. We name our approach AURA and articulate its two major advantages as follows: (1) reduction of disruption prediction efforts and (2) value creation from resilience assets. We offer a discussion on ten future research directions towards a lean resilience.
Human resource management practices at university spin-offs
Authors: Almeida Fernando
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the human resource management practices and the associated dimensions of quality of employment in university spin-offs. Through this, it becomes possible to explore and recognize the practices and difficulties placed on the employees of university spin-offs.

Design/methodology/approach

The United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) framework to assess the quality of work in the European Union is adopted. It is used a qualitative approach through the development of four case studies at university spin-offs located in Portugal. These case studies relate to four sectors of activity, such as information technology, urban mobility, health and electronics.

Findings

The findings reveal that most of the challenges of quality of work in a spin-off university are common to those in an SME or micro company. Among these factors, the authors highlight the lack of job security, reduced or no social protection and very low income and nonwage pecuniary benefits. Other factors specific to university spin-offs also emerge, such as the numerous opportunities for skills development and training, the potentialities to become an entrepreneur and the high number of working hours that are necessary to face the vibrant market dynamics.

Originality/value

The study aims to contribute, in a theoretical and empirically grounded basis, to the knowledge about the quality of employment in a spin-off university. This work becomes relevant for policymakers to understand in depth the specific challenges faced by employees of a spin-off university.
How exploitative leadership influences on knowledge management processes: the moderating role of organisational citizenship behaviour
Authors: Abdulmuhsin Amir A. , Zaker Rabee Ali , Asad Muhammad Mujtaba
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Drawing on knowledge-based view, social exchange theory and leader-member exchange, this study examines how exploitative leadership (EL) influences knowledge management (KM), its processes, and further investigates the moderating role of organisational citizenship behaviours (OCB) on the relationship between EL and KM.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative approach, survey data were collected from 356 faculty members in Iraqi public universities, and the direct and moderating relationships were assessed through Hierarchical regression by PROCESS v.3.3 macros in SPSS.

Findings

The study found a significant negative impact of EL on KM, including its processes, especially on knowledge utilisation. The assessment also revealed that OCB has a significant moderating impact on EL, particularly its effect on knowledge creation.

Practical implications

The empirical insights of the study are valuable and precious for policymakers, managers and academics in education sectors of developing countries, to enrich their managerial and scientific performance through addressing EL behaviours while considering the moderating effect of OCB.

Originality/value

The relevance of the study stems from the scarcity of research on EL, while studies on the negative behaviours of leaders as a predictor of KM process failures are significantly limited. Additionally, studies on the moderating impact of OCB on the linkage between EL and KM processes remain limited. This study is one of the earliest studies that investigate these inter-relationships amongst EL, OCB and KM processes.
Participation in farmers' organization and production efficiency: empirical evidence from smallholder farmers in Bangladesh
Authors: Bairagi Subir , Mottaleb Khondoker Abdul
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Farmer organizations (FOs) can elevate many of the production- and marketing-related challenges by ensuring access to technology, farming information and loan for inputs and mechanization. This study assesses the major factors that affect the participation in FOs by the smallholder rice farmers in Bangladesh and evaluates the impacts of the participation on rice yield and production efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study used primary data collected from 1,000 smallholder rice farmers in northwest Bangladesh, consisting of 250 farmers those participated in an organization. This study utilized a sample selection stochastic production frontier (SPF) method, a combination of the conventional SPF and the Heckman's sample selection model, to control for biases stemming from observed and unobserved attributes.

Findings

This study demonstrates that participation in an organization is significantly affected by smallholder rice farmers' education, occupation, family size, household income, land ownership and the location where they reside. At the same time, the participation status affects the productivity of smallholder farmers. Findings indicate that farmers who participated in an organization had higher rice yield (11% more) and were technically more efficient (1.4 percentage points higher) compared to farmers who did not participate.

Research limitations/implications

Since this study was carried out with representative sampled farmers from northwest Bangladesh, the findings may not represent all farmers' perceptions of FOs in the country.

Originality/value

Even though more than 200,000 FOs are currently in operation, knowledge regarding the effectiveness of Bangladesh's FOs is limited. Notably, this study used a relatively new method, sample selection SPF model, to investigate the impact of FOs on the production efficiency of smallholder rice farmers in northwest Bangladesh. Therefore, this study contributes to the literature in elucidating the factors affecting participation in FOs and its impact on rice yield and efficiency. Since FOs have been somewhat ineffective in their role as service providers in Bangladesh, this study’s results will guide policymakers to intervene more successfully regarding the changes needed.
How do ESG pillars impact firms’ marketing performance? A configurational analysis in the pharmaceutical sector
Authors: Paolone Francesco , Cucari Nicola , Wu Jintao , Tiscini Riccardo
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to contribute to international doctrine by testing how environmental social governance (ESG) pillars can affect marketing performance in the pharmaceutical industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors follow a pioneering approach, using a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis and data from the largest European listed companies belonging to the pharmaceutical industry in 2019. Specifically, the authors contribute to international doctrine by testing how ESG pillars can affect marketing performance by presenting two configurational paths that may help to clarify not only the individual role of the pillars but also how their interrelationships predict marketing performance.

Findings

The results identify two different causal configurations that lead to higher marketing performance. These configurations allow us to think more carefully about the role of ESG pillars in the pharmaceutical sector. These results could help managers reflect upon and justify their choice to invest in specific ESG pillars, highlighting the importance of the governance pillar.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first to use configurational analysis to investigate combinations of ESG pillars that lead firms to achieve higher levels of marketing performance.
An analysis of Covid-19 implications for SMEs in Pakistan
Authors: Aftab Rehan , Naveed Muhammad , Hanif Sajjad
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to ascertain the impact of coronavirus (Covid-19) on small and medium enterprises in Pakistan, which are vulnerable to crisis situations. This study also aims to provide policy recommendations to the stakeholders by reviewing the situation of small and medium scale enterprises (SMEs) after the Covid-19 sudden surge.

Design/methodology/approach

The descriptive study is based on quantitative data technique and primary data collection is undertaken. The survey instrument is adapted from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics public documents. Collected responses from SME owners are descriptively analyzed using appropriate graphs.

Findings

The analysis infers that SMEs in Pakistan have encountered unfavorable implications of Covid-19 in the form of shortage of goods, blockage in transportation, decrease in demand of products and services, decline in profits and sales, limited operations, lockdown and employee’s layoff.

Research limitations/implications

The limited sample and precise use of instruments are few limitations along with valuable implications of this research. The analysis of Covid-19 impact on SMEs is an ongoing phenomenon and aids in proactive planning for the second wave of this outbreak. Financing schemes, youth entrepreneurship loans, retention of skilled staff and proactive planning for adverse future are few recommended measures for revival of the SMEs sector.

Originality/value

The use of a unique sample and quality data set collected using the Bureau of Labor Statistics instrument adds value to the findings of the study and their consistency. The existing body of knowledge in the context of the SMEs sector of Pakistan is strengthened with an analysis of crisis implications for this sector, which remained unaddressed in the past.
Streamlining the management of payment delays: the case of Sri Lankan Government building construction projects
Authors: Perera B.A.K.S. , Dewagoda Kaveesha Gihani
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Delayed payments have been long standing, pressing issue in construction projects, especially in Government-funded construction projects. The root causes and the consequences of delayed payments must be identified before implementing strategies to mitigate the consequences of such delayed payments. However, these causes and consequences and the parties responsible for managing the delayed payments have not been identified so far. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to investigate the management of payment delays in Government-funded construction projects.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a mixed approach comprising four case studies and a questionnaire survey. The empirical data collected from the case studies and the questionnaire survey were analysed using manual content analysis and mean rating, respectively.

Findings

The study identified the most significant causes and the most significant consequences of delayed payments that occur in Government-funded construction projects. It also revealed the strategies that clients, consultants, contractors and other parties can adopt to mitigate the adverse consequences of such delayed payments.

Originality/value

This study identified the most significant causes of delayed payments in Government-funded construction projects, the most significant consequences of such delayed payments and the most suitable strategies the clients, consultants and contractors can adopt to mitigate the consequences of such delayed payments. Thus, this study supports streamlining the management of payment delays in Government construction projects and identifies the roles that different parties must play in managing payment delays in Government building projects, which is an under-researched area.
A systematic literature review on AAOIFI standards
Authors: El-Halaby Sherif , Aboul-Dahab Sameh , Bin Qoud Nuha
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to systematically review the existing studies for Accounting and Auditing Organization for Islamic Financial Institutions (AAOIFI) standards which include different tracks of researches and then identify the gaps to propose opportunities for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

By adopting a systematic literature review approach, 46 papers that were published between 2000 and 2020 from 23 journals concerned with AAOIFI were selected for review and analysis.

Findings

The authors combine electronic searches to identify relevant studies using keywords such as “AAOIFI” or and “Islamic standards.” In light of the existing studies’ limitations, this paper derives and summarizes five leading future research tracks: identifies the research gaps in AAOIFI and then suggests that AAOIFI still requires more empirical analyses; identifies the alternative analytical methods as meta-analysis; identifies additional measurements for macro and microeconomics factors; identifies recent tracks as corresponding to Covid-19 pandemic; and future studies should consider the role of central banks and positive criticism for AAOIFI.

Practical implications

This analysis address the literature gaps on measuring compliance, determinants and consequences of AAOIFI adoption as this study serves as a guide for the researchers, regulators and Islamic financial institutions in research associated with this area. The findings would support AAOIFI, regulators and related authorities across jurisdictions with suggestions on improving the current AAOIFI practices.

Originality/value

This literature review is a historical record and guidance for researchers who seek to examine and explore several questions about AAOIFI. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that applies systematic literature review over AAOIFI research field.
A theory of financial services competition, compliance and regulation
Authors: Michael Bryane , Falzon Joseph , Shamdasani Ajay
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to derive the conditions under which a financial services firm will want to hire a compliance services company and show how much money they should spend.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a mathematical model to show the intuition behind many of the compliance decisions that cost financial services firms billions every year.

Findings

This paper finds that hiring compliance firms may save banks and brokerages money. However, their advice may lead to an embarrass de riches – whereby the lower compliance costs and higher profit advantages they confer may lead to more regulation. Regulators may furthermore tighten regulation – with the expectation that financial service firms will adapt somehow. This paper presents a fresh perspective on the Menon hypothesis, deriving conditions under which financial regulations help the competitiveness of an international financial centre.

Research limitations/implications

The paper represents one of the first and only models of compliance spending by financial services firms.

Practical implications

This paper provides five potential policy responses for dealing with ever ratcheting financial regulations.

Originality/value

The paper hopefully launches literature on the compliance service industry – and the buy-or-do decision to engage in financial services compliance. This paper finds that efficient compliance can hurt firms, by encouraging regulation. This paper shows how firms can forestall the extra regulation that comes with easier internet and computerised monitoring.