bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cortical correlates of the auditory frequency-following and onset responses: EEG and fMRI evidence
Authors: Coffey Emily B.J. , Musacchia Gabriella , Zatorre Robert J.
Published: September 2016

The frequency following response (FFR) is a measure of the brain’s periodic sound encoding. It is of increasing importance for studying the human auditory nervous system due to numerous associations with auditory cognition and dysfunction. Although the FFR is widely interpreted as originating from brainstem nuclei, a recent study using magnetoencephalography (MEG) suggested that there is also a right-lateralized contribution from the auditory cortex at the fundamental frequency (Coffey et al., 2016c). Our objectives in the present work were to validate and better localize this result using a completely different neuroimaging modality, and document the relationships between the FFR and the onset response, and cortical activity. Using a combination of electroencephalography, fMRI, and diffusion-weighted imaging, we show that activity in the right auditory cortex is related to individual differences in FFR-f0 strength, a finding that was replicated with two independent stimulus sets, with and without acoustic energy at the fundamental frequency. We demonstrate a dissociation between this FFR-f0-sensitive response in the right and an area in left auditory cortex that is sensitive to individual differences in the timing of initial response to sound onset. Relationships to timing and their lateralization are supported by parallels in the microstructure of the underlying white matter, implicating a mechanism involving neural conduction efficiency. These data confirm that the FFR has a cortical contribution, and suggest ways in which auditory neuroscience may be advanced by connecting early sound representation to measures of higher-level sound processing and cognitive function.

Significance Statement

The frequency following response (FFR) is an electroencephalograph signal that is used to explore how the auditory system encodes temporal regularities in sound, and which is related to differences in auditory function between individuals. It is known that brainstem nuclei contribute to the FFR, but recent findings of an additional cortical source are more controversial. Here, we use functional MRI to validate and extend the prediction from magnetoencephalography data of a right auditory cortex contribution to the FFR. We also demonstrate a dissociation between FFR-related cortical activity from that related to the latency of the response to sound onset, which is found in left auditory cortex. The findings provide a clearer picture of cortical processes for analysis of sound features.
How prior knowledge prepares perception: Alpha-band oscillations carry perceptual expectations and influence early visual responses
Authors: Samaha Jason , Boutonnet Bastien , Postle Bradley R. , Lupyan Gary
Published: September 2016

Perceptual experience results from a complex interplay of bottom-up input and prior knowledge about the world, yet the extent to which knowledge affects perception, the neural mechanisms underlying these effects, and the stages of processing at which these two sources of information converge, are still unclear. In several experiments we show that language, in the form of verbal cues, both aids recognition of ambiguous “Mooney” images and improves objective visual discrimination performance in a match/non-match task. We then used electroencephalography (EEG) to better understand the mechanisms of this effect. The improved discrimination of images previously labeled was accompanied by a larger occipital-parietal P1 evoked response to the meaningful versus meaningless target stimuli. Time-frequency analysis of the interval between the cue and the target stimulus revealed increases in the power of posterior alpha-band (8-14 Hz) oscillations when the meaning of the stimuli to be compared was trained. The magnitude of the pre-target alpha difference and the P1 amplitude difference were positively correlated across individuals. These results suggest that prior knowledge prepares the brain for upcoming perception via the modulation of alpha-band oscillations, and that this preparatory state influences early (~120 ms) stages of visual processing.
Crystal structure of yeast monothiol glutaredoxin Grx6 in complex with a glutathione-coordinated [2Fe–2S] cluster
Authors: Abdalla Mohnad , Dai Ya-Nan , Chi Chang-Biao , Cheng Wang , Cao Dong-Dong , Zhou Kang , Ali Wafa , Chen Yuxing , Zhou Cong-Zhao
Published: September 2016

Glutaredoxins (Grxs) constitute a superfamily of proteins that perform diverse biological functions. TheSaccharomyces cerevisiaeglutaredoxin Grx6 not only serves as a glutathione (GSH)-dependent oxidoreductase and as a GSH transferase, but also as an essential [2Fe–2S]-binding protein. Here, the dimeric structure of the C-terminal domain of Grx6 (holo Grx6C), bridged by one [2Fe–2S] cluster coordinated by the active-site Cys136 and two external GSH molecules, is reported. Structural comparison combined with multiple-sequence alignment demonstrated that holo Grx6C is similar to the [2Fe–2S] cluster-incorporated dithiol Grxs, which share a highly conserved [2Fe–2S] cluster-binding pattern and dimeric conformation that is distinct from the previously identified [2Fe–2S] cluster-ligated monothiol Grxs.
X-ray crystallographic studies of the extracellular domain of the first plant ATP receptor, DORN1, and the orthologous protein fromCamelina sativa
Authors: Li Zhijie , Chakraborty Sayan , Xu Guozhou
Published: September 2016

Does not respond to nucleotides 1 (DORN1) has recently been identified as the first membrane-integral plant ATP receptor, which is required for ATP-induced calcium response, mitogen-activated protein kinase activation and defense responses inArabidopsis thaliana. In order to understand DORN1-mediated ATP sensing and signal transduction, crystallization and preliminary X-ray studies were conducted on the extracellular domain of DORN1 (atDORN1-ECD) and that of an orthologous protein,Camelina sativalectin receptor kinase I.9 (csLecRK-I.9-ECD or csI.9-ECD). A variety of deglycosylation strategies were employed to optimize the glycosylated recombinant atDORN1-ECD for crystallization. In addition, the glycosylated csI.9-ECD protein was crystallized at 291 K. X-ray diffraction data were collected at 4.6 Å resolution from a single crystal. The crystal belonged to space groupC222 orC2221, with unit-cell parametersa= 94.7,b= 191.5,c= 302.8 Å. These preliminary studies have laid the foundation for structural determination of the DORN1 and I.9 receptor proteins, which will lead to a better understanding of the perception and function of extracellular ATP in plants.
Study on the interference between cathodic protection systems of gas station and long distance trunk pipeline
Authors: Cui Gan , Li Zili , Yang Chao , Ding Xiaoyong
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Under normal conditions, there are different protection objects inside and outside the gas station, so two sets of independent cathodic protection systems are adopted. At the same time, an insulating flange is applied at the position where trunk pipelines access to the gas station, which realizes electrical isolation of the structures inside and outside the station. However, as a result of short distance between the two cathodic protection systems, there will be stray current interference between them. The purpose of this paper was to study on the interference between cathodic protection systems of gas station and long distance trunk pipeline.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the above, in this paper, first, the mathematical model of interference between cathodic protection systems was established and the control equations solved using the boundary element method. Second, the influence of cathodic protection system of gas station on long distance trunk pipeline and the influence of cathodic protection system of long distance trunk pipeline on gas station were studied separately using BEASY software. Finally, a new thought of cathodic protection design for local station was put forward.

Findings

It was concluded that there were serious interference problems between the cathodic protection systems of gas station and long distance trunk pipeline. By moving the potential control point to area outside the influence scope of anode ground bed could avoid the influence of cathodic protection system of gas station on long distance trunk pipeline. By moving the auxiliary anodes away from gas station could avoid the influence of cathodic protection system of long distance trunk pipeline on pipelines in gas station. The new thought of cathodic protection design could avoid the interference between the cathodic protection systems effectively.

Originality/value

It is considered that the results can guide cathodic design for gas station and long distance trunk pipeline. The results can also avoid the interference corrosion between the structures in gas station and trunk pipeline.
Effect of electrochemical chloride extraction treatment on the corrosion of steel rebar in chloride contaminated mortar
Authors: Nguyen The Huyen , Nguyen Tuan Anh , Le Van Khu , Dinh Thi Mai Thanh , Thai Hoang , Shi Xianming , Nguyen The Huu
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This work aims to demonstrate the use of electrochemical chloride extraction (ECE) to remove chloride ions away from the steel rebar in chloride-contaminated mortar and to mitigate the corrosion of the embedded steel.

Design/methodology/approach

To simulate salt contamination in concrete, sodium chloride was added at 0.5 per cent by weight of cement in the fresh mortar featuring a water-to-cement ratio of 0.45. The ECE treatments were varied at two electrical current densities (1 and 5 A/m2), using two electrolytes (0.1M NaOH and 0.1M Na3BO3 solutions) and for two periods (2 and 4 weeks). The average free chloride concentration in cement mortars before and after ECE treatment was quantified using a customized chloride sensor, whereas the spatial distribution of relevant elements was obtained using energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy. The effect of ECE treatment on the electric resistivity of mortar and the corrosion resistance of steel rebar was investigated by electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization measurements, respectively.

Findings

The experimental results reveal that the ECE treatment was effective in removing chlorides and in improving electric resistivity and compressive strength of the mortar, when using the sodium borate solution as the electrolyte. In this case, a 4-week ECE treatment at 1 A/m2 decreased the free chloride content in the mortar by 70 per cent, significantly increased the Ca/Si ratio in the mortar near rebar, led to a more refined and less permeable microstructure of the mortar and significantly improved its compressive strength. The ECE treatment was able to halt the chloride-induced corrosion of steel rebar by passivation. A 4-week ECE treatment at 1 A/m2 using sodium hydroxide and sodium borate solutions decreased the corrosion rate of rebar by 36 and 34 per cent, respectively.

Originality/value

This electrochemical rehabilitation of steel-reinforced concrete under chloride-contaminated condition is very effective in prolonging its service life.
Blind spots in global strategy: applications in emerging markets
Authors: Ho Park Seung , R. Ungson Gerardo
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply the concept of blind spot to illustrate the misapplication of extant global strategies to emerging markets. The authors discuss cases of multinationals and indigenous local companies to draw insights on firm operations in emerging markets. The authors unpack four specific blind spots that have resonated repeatedly in their operations: an adherence to unqualified scaling, the intractability of localization, the opacity of non-government intervention, and an undue attention to disruption rather than transformation. The study concludes with recommendations that can help companies be better aware of the blind spots and manage more effectively in emerging markets.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual.

Findings

Four blind spots: an adherence to unqualified scaling, the intransitivity of localization, the illusion of non-government intervention, and an undue attention to disruption rather than transformation.

Practical implications

The paper is primarily for practitioners.

Originality/value

This study presents some of the key findings from our previous studies on emerging market issues. The authors recently published four different books on various themes on emerging markets. The findings presented in this paper come strictly from these previous projects.
Competitive dynamics: Eastern roots, Western growth
Authors: Chen Ming-Jer
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to bridge the understanding of apparent dichotomies such as East and West, philosophy and social sciences, and antiquity and modernity, and to continue the vibrant expansion of competitive dynamics study into the realm of East-West theoretical fusion.

Design/methodology/approach

The author looks to classical Chinese philosophy to discover the origins and nature of competitive dynamics. The paper develops the premise that the foundational thrusts of this contemporary Western management topic spring from ancient Eastern conceptions of duality, relativity, and time.

Findings

Research inroads are made along two paths. First, the paper traces the theoretical and philosophical underpinnings of competitive dynamics to Eastern thinking. Then by bridging what have customarily been perceived as fundamentally different paradigms, it reveals, in a new light, empirical findings in this strategy subfield.

Research limitations/implications

Linking Western management science, and specifically the study of competitive dynamics, to classical Eastern philosophy raises new research questions in the areas of international management and management education as well as competitive dynamics. In the latter, the paper suggests opportunities for exploring connections between traditional Chinese concepts and contemporary organizational and competition research issues, including competitive and cooperative relationships at the industry level. Future research may also investigate the fundamental differences and similarities between Eastern and Western philosophies, and their implications for competitive strategies.

Originality/value

From a relatively obscure corner of business academia, competitive dynamics now occupies a distinct place in strategic management research and is a topic of intense interest to scholars in a variety of disciplines. The usual view is that competitive dynamics fits squarely in the spectrum of social sciences, an organically home-grown area of Western study. This paper examines the topic from a distinctly different angle – through the lens of ancient Eastern philosophy – to discern deeper a deeper meaning and wider application.
Bridging the gap between justice and citizenship behavior in Asian culture
Authors: Mohammad Jihad , Quoquab Farzana , Makhbul Zafir Mohd , Ramayah T.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Based on social exchange, equity, and other orientation theories this study examines the effect of organizational justice on two dimensions of employees’ citizenship behavior in the Asian context. Moreover, the purpose of this paper is to investigate whether Islamic work ethic (IWE) can moderate the relationships between organizational justice and two dimensions of citizenship behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using self-administered questionnaire. In total, 337 employees from Islamic financial institutions in Malaysia participated in the survey. Structural equation modeling specifically partial least square was used to analysis the hypothetical model developed in this study.

Findings

The finding of this study revealed that justice has direct effect on citizenship behavior directed toward individual and organization alike. These relationships found to be more effective for employees who are high in IWE and weak for employees who are low in IWE. Moreover, the findings of this study provide insight about the validity and reliability of the existing scales pertaining to the study constructs in Asian culture.

Practical implications

The current study enhance researchers understanding about the crucial role of dispositional variables as moderator in relation to justice and citizenship behavior, confirmed the predictive role of organizational justice in Asian context, and stresses the importance of justice at workplace which can encourage employees to go the extra mile and show good behavior toward their co-workers and/or organization.

Originality/value

This is a pioneer study that empirically investigates the moderating role of IWE between organizational justice and citizenship behavior, and emphasized the validity and reliability of the used scales in eastern context.
Willingness of patrons to use library public computing facilities: insights from Malaysia
Authors: Mohd Suki Norazah
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine relationships between attitude, self-efficacy and subjective norm with library patrons’ behavioural intention to use public computing facilities at a library.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 200 undergraduate students enrolled at a higher learning institution in the Federal Territory of Labuan, Malaysia, via a structured questionnaire comprising closed-ended questions. A structural equation modelling technique using Analysis of Moment Structures (AMOS) computer software version 21 was used to examine the stability of the model with the data and to estimate impacts among factors instantaneously.

Findings

The results show that library patrons’ behavioral intention to use public computing facilities at the library is widely affected by subjective norm factor, i.e. influence of the support of family members, friends and neighbours. Using public computers in a library helps them to be more independent in completing their assignments and conducting research collaboration, checking email messages, social networking and performing other online tasks.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide a better understanding of factors likely to influence library patrons’ behavioral intention to use public computing facilities at a library. It also offers valuable insights into factors which university librarians need to focus on to improve library patrons’ behavioral intention to actively use public computing facilities at a library for quality information retrieval.

Originality/value

This study replaces perceived behavioral control with self-efficacy in the framework, as it overlaps with the concept of self-efficacy to provide more variance in behavioral intention to use public computing facilities at a library, which has been marginally researched in the Malaysian context.
Inventory of a library collection using Android application
Authors: Boberic Krsticev Danijela , Tešendic Danijela , Verma Binay Kumar
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the possibilities of using a mobile application in the process of conducting an inventory of library collection and present an application for the same. The application scans barcode labels on books and retrieves data about those books. Data regarding the status and call number of each book can be changed using this application.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on a case study of developing an application for the Android platform, and this application is part of the BISIS library management system.

Findings

By analysing the procedure of conducting an inventory in the library of the Faculty of Science, University of Novi Sad, it is concluded that this procedure is tedious and can be simplified. To make this procedure more efficient, a mobile application enabling search and update of bibliographic records has been developed. That application communicates with the BISIS library management system using a specially designed service.

Practical implications

By introducing this application at the libraries, the process of inventory of a library collection can be simplified, the time needed for the inventory will be shorter and the inventory will require less physical effort.

Originality/value

The application is designed to help librarians during the process of inventory of library collections. During this process, librarians have to check status of every item on the shelves and to update catalogue with new information. This application enables mobility of librarians and updates information about items during checking the shelves.
The effects of stated preferences for firm characteristics, optimism and overconfidence on trading activities
Authors: Islam Khan Mohammad Tariqul , Tan Siow-Hooi , Chong Lee-Lee
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test the competing explanations of stated preferences for firm characteristics, optimism and overconfidence for trading activities in a single framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey methodology is followed to collect the data among retail investors in Malaysia using simple random sampling.

Findings

The findings show simultaneous identification of stated preferences for firm characteristics, optimism and overconfidence as determinants of trading activities. Preferences for firm’s profitability characteristics, management and product-related attributes and risky characteristics are likely to decrease investors’ trading activities. On the other hand, preferences for firm’s liquidity and trading volume characteristics with relative financial-domain optimism, personal investment optimism and better-than-average aspect of overconfidence are likely to increase investors’ trading activities.

Practical implications

This finding implies that investors should be careful not only in assessing firm’s characteristics but also need to understand the effects of optimism and overconfidence in trading decisions.

Originality/value

The study considers various aspects of optimism and overconfidence, and the stated preferences for firm characteristics, unlike one aspect of these behavioral biases and indirect observation of preferences for firm characteristics. Furthermore, the study considers trading frequency, annual portfolio turnover and trading intention, whereas earlier studies considered only one or two of these trading decisions.
Advanced material planning performance: a contextual examination and research agenda
Authors: Jonsson Patrik , Mattsson Stig-Arne
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the inventory performance effect of advanced material planning modes and analyse how internal and external contextual difficulties moderate this relationship. This study also identifies avenues for future research.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical analysis uses a survey of material planning for purchased items in 292 Swedish manufacturing and wholesaling companies. Three dimensions of inventory performance are dependent variables: material planning performance, inventory turnover rate, and service level.

Findings

Advanced material planning modes are directly associated with material planning performance, but this study could not verify direct associations with inventory turnover rate and service-level performances. External and internal contextual difficulties have direct effects on all inventory performance dimensions and moderate the inventory performance effect of advanced material planning modes. The moderating effect is stronger in non-difficult contexts, for which advanced material planning has significant inventory performance effects. Demand- and human-related contextual dimensions are especially critical.

Practical implications

The study identifies the following guidelines for companies to consider in order to unlock the potential of advanced material planning: consider full implementation of advanced material planning in non-difficult contexts; minimise the plan variability effects of high parameter revision and planning frequencies; minimise the need for, and use of, manual modification of planned orders before release; reduce demand uncertainty and variability; and secure appropriate human skills and working time.

Originality/value

This study somewhat contradicts the literature on material planning by not finding a direct positive effect on any inventory performance dimension from analytical design of order quantities and safety stocks. The research adds to the literature by identifying direct and moderating effects of external and internal contextual difficulties on all three-inventory performance dimensions. The relative importance of managing automatic order release identified in the study motivates future research as the effect has not been previously highlighted in the literature. Accordingly, avenues for future research and an agenda for practice-oriented research are suggested.
Effects of outsourced service providers’ experiences on perceived service quality
Authors: Ho Chien-Ta , Wei Chung-Lun
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a framework to examine experiences of an information technology/information systems (IS) outsourcing service supplier as a signal of perceived service quality and to consider the moderating effects of information asymmetries and signal credibility.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on signaling theory, the paper integrates past experiences of an outsourcing service supplier, information asymmetries, signal credibility, perceived service quality, and purchase intention into a model. Questionnaires were collected in Taiwan, and partial least-squares technique was employed to test the model.

Findings

The results indicate that past experiences of an IS outsourcing supplier affect perceived service quality, which subsequently influences positively the intention to purchase IS outsourcing services. In addition, signal credibility moderates the relationship between the provider’s past experiences and perceived service quality, though information asymmetries do not have significant effect on the hypothesized moderating relationship.

Originality/value

This research enriches the extant literatures in signaling theory by demonstrating the few-mentioned IS outsourced suppliers’ experiences as a quality signal as well as in outsourcing contexts with signaling perspectives. The empirical findings validate the importance of dissemination and investment of past experiences for IS provider companies and give a cue of utilizing providers’ experiences to alleviate uncertainty when assessing IS service quality and purchasing outsourcing services for client companies.
Supplying networks in the healthcare sector
Authors: Paltriccia Chiara , Tiacci Lorenzo
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a new outsourcing model for materials management related to the operating theatre of hospitals. Two distinguishing features characterize the model: the long-term collaborative network established among the supplying companies (the “Network factor”), and the implementation of the RFID technology along the supply chain (the “RFID factor”). The network factor allows sharing transportation costs, while the RFID factor allows implementing a continuous review policy, instead of the periodic review policy normally utilized in hospitals. In the paper the effect of these two factors on the minimization of total materials management costs is investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

An analytical model, validated through a simulation study, is proposed to calculate total management costs of materials, depending on the presence of the network and the RFID factors. Throughout the model it is possible to perform a scenario analysis and individuate the inventory management policy that allows minimizing total costs. The procedure has been applied to a real case study of a long-term collaborative network of supplying companies in the healthcare sector that operates in Central Italy.

Findings

The optimal inventory management policy strongly depends on the mutual distances of supplying companies and the hospital. Both of the two factors have an impact on the reduction of total annual costs. The analysis of the scenario shows that a positive interaction effect exists between the two factors, so that higher savings are obtained when both factors are present.

Originality/value

The outsourcing model presented in the paper is new, and the managerial insights that can be drawn from the application of the model to the healthcare sector can be extended to many other industries.
Organizational learning and innovation as sources of strategic fit
Authors: Tamayo-Torres Ignacio , Gutiérrez-Gutiérrez Leopoldo J. , Llorens-Montes Francisco Javier , Martínez-López Francisco J.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the roles played by organizational learning (OL) and innovation in organizations immersed in the processes of adaptation and strategic fit in dynamic and turbulent environments. The authors analyze whether OL and innovation act as sources of strategic fit, and whether strategic fit positively affects performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use data from a survey of a representative sample of 204 respondents from European firms active in high-technology sectors (response rate: 10.42 percent) and structural equation modeling (using the EQS 6.1 program) to undertake a transversal study.

Findings

The model confirms that OL and the capacity to innovate positively influence managers’ decisions to adapt their organizations to changes in dynamic environments. The achievement of strategic fit, in turn, improves organizational performance. The authors propose considering the innovation climate as a facilitator of new product and process development, although the innovation climate is not a direct antecedent of fit.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited by the fact that the analysis is cross-sectional and by the fact that all measures used are based on managers’ perceptions.

Practical implications

Managers should create and support an entrepreneurial culture that stresses continuous learning. They should also foster programs aimed at developing abilities, and promote the development of capabilities that facilitate acceptance of organizational change. Investments in building certain capabilities, such as OL and the capacity to innovate, are strategically justified, especially in turbulent environments.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first to investigate the complex interactions among OL, innovation, strategic fit, and performance. The results improve our understanding of the links between strategic fit and performance.
Competing for leadership and ownership: the Li & Fung Group’s legendary and strategy
Authors: Zheng Victor , Wong Siu-Lun
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The Li & Fung Group, a century-old, family-controlled multinational group of companies based in Hong Kong, seems to be an exception to the traditional perception of Chinese family business. The aim of this paper is to explore why this company can overcome the fatalism that “family business could not pass on over three generations”.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper will use in-depth case study as key methodology for exploring key research question of family business sustainability. Archival data, including company registration records, newspaper reports, biographical materials and company annual reports, etc., are major secondary data that will be used for qualitative analysis.

Findings

The important findings in this paper is that the authors can identify key ways for solving family conflict and business continuity. Through in-depth study, the authors argue that because Li & Fung can effectively adopt the “pruning the family tree” mechanism and “listing and de-listing” mechanism during critical stages of succession and development, it has flourished for over a century and is therefore a model for other Chinese family businesses to follow.

Research limitations/implications

Because the authors did not conduct personal interviews with the family members of the company, the authors do not have “insiders’ view” on the company development. Also, it is a century-old company, and many historical data cannot be obtained, so some of the developments would not be fully explained and understood.

Practical implications

It can let family business owners, staffs working in family business and professionals serving family business know better that although there are negative sides of family business, their positive sides should not be underestimated. If a proper mechanism can be rightly executed, its negative side could be large reduced, whereas its positive side could be better enhanced.

Social implications

This paper can offer insightful implication to the society that family business, in fact, is highly dynamic. It not only creates jobs by offering services and producing goods but stimulates economic development as family the fertile ground for breeding entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

There is no analysis in the academia in exploring the Li & Fung Group’s development from the perspective of leadership and ownership competition. So, the originality of this paper is very high.
Early global Trotters and their entrepreneurial employment practices
Authors: Chai Qianqian , Cheung Cherry Wun Mei , Kwong Caleb
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Questions have often been asked of the ethicality of multinational enterprises (MNEs) with the conducts of many being classified as exploitative. This is particularly so the internal context, where MNEs are often reluctant to employ host country nationals at important positions and treat their host and parent countries employees differently. This study aims to examine whether the locals are really getting the raw end of the deal.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilising a unique record book that is available about the employment details of civil servants in Hong Kong known as the blue book, this study intends to examine whether first-moving multinational organisations treated their local employees in an ethical and reasonable manner, for the employees entering the service between 1845-1850.

Findings

The data suggests that, overall, host country nationals earn much less than not only the British but also those from third countries. Moreover, parent country nationals were placed at important officer and supervisory roles, as oppose to host country nationals at the bottom, forming a typically ethnocentric governance structure (Perlmutter, 1969). Furthermore, even divided by grade, the starting salary difference between host and parent country nationals remain considerable. However, the reason for this is complex, and the authors do not have a quick and precise answer as to whether there has been discrimination.

Research limitations/implications

The findings perhaps explain the dilemma faced by the early-movers because they tend to feel the strong need of adopting an ethnocentric approach, which can be extremely costly as a result of the large wage differential. A balance needs to be struck between this and utilising host country nationals, which might not necessarily possess all the essential qualities but might be cheaper.

Originality/value

This is the first study examining the employment practices of fast-moving MNEs.
Consumer-brand relationships’ development in the mobile internet market: evidence from an extended relationship commitment paradigm
Authors: Giovanis Apostolos
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Given its importance in the brand management of service firms, the present research initiative primarily concerns the investigation of the formation process of consumer-brand relationships in the service industry. By considering a chain of effects’ model, this paper aims to integrate two brand commitment paradigm’s perspectives with service evaluation theory, representing the attitudinal and behavioral aspects of the relationship building process, to better explain the way consumers relate to a service brand. The proposed conceptual model is tested in the context of mobile broadband internet services.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 573 customers of mobile internet services was conducted using a structured questionnaire with established scales. Data were analyzed with partial least squares structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicated that brand loyalty is determined by relationship commitment, which, in turn, is influenced by the consumer-brand relationship components – trust, satisfaction, investment size and quality of alternatives – as well as by the service brand’s perceived value. Finally, the relationship quality components of the brand, trust and satisfaction to a large extent, and investment size to a lesser extent, mediate the relationships between service brand evaluation and brand commitment.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is industry-specific, and this may affect generalizability of findings. Also, the cross-sectional design adopted does not reflect temporal changes.

Practical implications

From a practical point of view, the findings suggest that providers can improve their loyalty figures through the establishment of strong consumer-brand relationships as a result of the development and delivery of high quality, valuable services and other relationship-building tactics that support the consumer-brand binding.

Originality/value

Although there are previous studies that extend either the relationship investment model or the commitment-trust theory with the service evaluation theory, the proposed model is the first to combine the previous three research streams into one causal chain model, to explain the development and flow of events in the consumer-brand relationship process toward brand loyalty.
Audit committee roles and responsibilities in two English public sector settings
Authors: Hegazy Karim , Stafford Anne
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to conduct a comparative study by examining the Audit Committee (AC) set-up, roles, responsibilities and developments in two distinct English public sector settings, namely, foundation trusts (FTs) and local authorities (LAs).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is exploratory and explanatory in nature and uses a qualitative case study approach framed in institutional theory. It is based on semi-structured interviews with AC chairs, external and internal auditors and finance directors triangulated with meeting observations and documentation review.

Findings

The study finds that public sector ACs have a large and diverse role which extends beyond challenging/monitoring responsibilities. Influenced by the New Public Management ideology, the AC has developed more rapidly in FTs due to imposed regulation contrasting with the slower progress in LAs due to its still voluntary adoption. Nevertheless, in both environments, there is a developing understanding and growing competence within the AC in terms of their assurance role where the focus has shifted from an emphasis on function and on transacting business through following a manual, to a more strategic-looking approach.

Research limitations/implications

Due to the complexity of public sector settings, and by using an approach framed within institutional theory, the study contributes by challenging a simple notion of isomorphism as an explanation of AC roles, responsibilities and development in two distinct public sector environments. Furthermore, the study recognizes that there is a need to ensure ACs are appropriate to their institutional setting and organizational context.

Originality/value

Most AC studies have focused on private sector contexts. This paper explores the phenomenon in a different organizational context, namely, as a public sector comparative case study.
Does government ownership affect corporate governance and corporate disclosure?
Authors: Al-Janadi Yaseen , Abdul Rahman Rashidah , Alazzani Abdulsamad
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the moderating effect of government ownership (GO) on the association between corporate governance (CG) and voluntary disclosure (VD).

Design/methodology/approach

This study used multivariate analysis to examine the moderating variable.

Findings

GO has a moderating negative effect on the association between CG factors [e.g. board size, non-executive directors (NEDs)] and VD, which indicates that GO plays a negative role in the effectiveness of CG. The study also found that audit quality is not affected by the influence of GO, indicating that companies without GO are better than companies with GO in terms of applying the best practices of CG to provide sufficient and high-quality disclosure.

Originality/value

This study has important implications for governments to be more effective in implementing the best practices of CG. Additionally, the findings could have implications for authority regulators, policy makers and shareholders to require effective implications for CG to reduce the effects of GO the implementation of best CG practices and the disclosure of quality information.
Al-Jazeera Sport’s US Twitter followers: sport-politics nexus?
Authors: Hayat Tsahi , Samuel-Azran Tal , Galily Yair
Published: September 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to contribute to analyses of the sport-politics nexus by identifying whether the demographics of Twitter followers of Al-Jazeera Sport in the USA (rebranded in 2014 as beIN USA) can be associated with a specific political orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on selective exposure theory, which posits that people follow news sources that reinforce their existing views, the authors identify the news outlets followed by beIN Twitter followers. To put the findings in perspective, the authors compared the results to the news outlets followed by the Twitter followers of Al-Jazeera America, Al-Jazeera’s second US outlet. Next, to understand the nature of the beIN and Al-Jazeera America communities, the authors used social network analysis to analyze the distribution of retweets within these communities.

Findings

The analysis shows that whereas Al-Jazeera America Twitter followers follow significantly more liberal than conservative news outlets, beIN’s followers were not identified with a specific political orientation. Analysis of beIN’s followers’ retweets shows a greater degree of connectivity among beIN’s followers than among the followers of Al-Jazeera America, indicating a more connected social network.

Research limitations/implications

Findings indicate that beIN’s Twitter following is characterized by more diverse and more strongly connected audience than Al-Jazeera America on Twitter, highlighting sports as a non-politicized realm on Twitter.

Practical implications

For practitioners, the study illustrates that controversial non-western media networks such as Al-Jazeera can gain access to diverse populations in the West by operating in the sport realm rather than the news realm.

Originality/value

This study offers a pioneering indication of the extent of a sport-ethnocentrism nexus on Twitter.
Ascorbic acid treatment to improve the light fastness or as reducing agent on silk fabric dyed with pulverised natural dyes
Authors: Faiz F.A. , Ngo J.S.K. , Bujang K.B.
Published: September 2016

Purpose

This study aims to improve the natural dyeing recipe with better light fastness using ascorbic acid (vitamin C) with pulverised plant dyes.

Design/methodology/approach

Silk fabrics pre-mordanted with alum (aluminium ammonium sulphate) were dyed using six types of plant dyes available in Sarawak, Malaysia, namely, Engkerabai leaves (Psychotria viridiflora), Ketapang leaves (Terminalia catappa), mangrove bark (Ceriops tagal), Sepang wood (Caesalpinia sappan), mangosteen husk (Garcinia mangostana) and onion skin (Allium cepa). Then, the dyed samples were immersed in vitamin C. The dyed and vitamin C-treated silk samples were exposed to direct sunlight for 40 h to test whether vitamin C had any effect on the light fastness of the dyed samples.

Findings

It was found that the fabric samples using vitamin C for after-treatment, particularly Engkerabai, Ketapang, mangrove and mangosteen, exhibited better light fastness. The colours of the four samples changed and looked darker when compared to the non-treated fabric samples. However, it was observed that vitamin C had a reverse effect on Sepang wood and onion skin. The acidic aqueous solution of vitamin C discharged the dyed samples instead.

Originality/value

In conclusion, depending on the plant types, vitamin C can be used to improve the light fastness of natural dyes or as a reducing agent for natural dyes.
Effects of athletic T-shirt designs on natural ventilation
Authors: Ho Chupo , Fan Jintu , Newton Edward , Au Raymond
Published: September 2016

Purpose

Maintaining air circulation between the wearer and garment layer is crucial for activating heat and moisture transfer from the body. If an air gap is trapped, air circulation may become ineffective and the ventilation of the garment is, thus, hindered. To maintain and extend the air gap, this study aims to propose a design method that involves placing spacer blocks underneath the garment to prevent the fabric from clinging directly to the skin.

Design/methodology/approach

To study the application of this design method, a series of T-shirts were produced and tested using a thermal manikin in standing and walking postures. All the T-shirts were made of fabric ostensibly manufactured to have high air permeability. Porous mesh fabric was used to construct the vented panels on the T-shirts. The test was conducted in a chamber with controlled temperature, relative humidity and wind velocity. Total thermal insulation (Rt) and moisture vapour resistance (Ret) were measured.

Findings

The test results showed that extension of the air gap between wearer and fabric provided higher ventilation to the wearer if the vented panels were also present on the T-shirts. Different placements of the vented panels on the T-shirts also affected the heat and moisture transfer from the thermal manikin.

Research limitations/implications

Due to limited resources, the evaluation of total thermal insulation and moisture vapour resistance was based on the testing result from a thermal manikin instead of any subjective wearer trial.

Practical implications

This research can contribute to the clothing designer who is developing function wear for a better ventilation.

Social implications

This research can contribute to the clothing designer who is developing function wear for a better ventilation.

Originality/value

This study aimed to further develop a new design concept in T-shirt design by improving the construction of the spacer blocks. Fabric with higher air and water vapour permeability was used to determine to what extent this design method is applicable to higher performance on heat and moisture transfer.