bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The chopsticks debacle: how brand hate flattened Dolce & Gabbana in China
Authors: Atwal Glyn , Bryson Douglas , Kaiser Maya
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the development of brand hate based on the case of Italian luxury fashion house Dolce & Gabbana in China.

Design/methodology/approach

The strategy adopted in this study is a single in-depth case study. Qualitative methods are applied in both the data collection and analysis.

Findings

The findings identified six distinct stages through which brand hate can develop: awareness, anger, amplification, antagonism, action and apathy.

Research limitations/implications

The case is specific to a luxury brand and the Chinese cultural context.

Practical implications

Practitioners need to consider how business strategies can be adapted to manage the six stages of the manifestation of brand hate. A “proactive” approach is needed to avoid arousing brand hate, while a “reactive” approach is needed to manage its potential ramifications.

Originality/value

There has been a paucity of anti-consumption research within the business strategy literature. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, the focus on China makes this the first study to investigate brand hate within a Chinese cultural context.
Regional economic performance and the differential prevalence of corporate and family business
Authors: Bika Zografia , Rosa Peter
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Previous studies have largely examined interregional variations of small and medium-sized enterprise (SME) rather than family firm concentrations. This paper aims to address this gap through an analysis of firm type indicators across Europe from the Eurostat database, using social, economic and demographic statistics at the NUTS 2 regional level to ascertain the nature, prevalence and regional contexts of family firm concentrations.

Design/methodology/approach

Hierarchical clustering is performed to map the regional distribution of the European family business.

Findings

Results show that the co-existence of family SMEs with large firms is negatively related to regional economic performance, and this variation has implications for the understanding of the survival and strategic behaviour of family firms.

Originality/value

The study promotes a new family business “in context” than “by context” point of view and paves the way for further empirical work with interregional family business data at various spatial levels.
Tackling practical issues in fraud control: a practice-based study
Authors: Maulidi Ach , Ansell Jake
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a warning sign for fraud studies in developing occupational fraud deterrent, and offer possible solution to deal with it.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted in one of regencies in Indonesia. The authors interviewed nine top managers across local agencies and four senior local government internal auditors. The people involved have formal and informal networks with a regent who has been arrested by Indonesia’s Corruption Eradication Commission, because of white-collar crime syndicates, when running governmental systems.

Findings

While many approaches to fraud mitigation have been proposed, organisations in practice particularly in the public sector find it hard to implement successful methods to understand, detect and prevent fraud. In practice, this occurs due to simplified assumption on or multiplicity of overlapping fraud concepts. There is also a lack of appreciation of impact of organisational dynamics which facilitates fraud. Behavioural and political issues within an organisation need to be addressed when proposing fraud prevention. The study emphasises that it is too naïve to offer internal control as one-size-fits-all fraud prevention. For practitioners, corrupt behaviour tends to be the most challenging part, compared to other fraud schemes such as asset misappropriation and financial statement fraud. In this paper, the authors urge organisation to adapt a more systematic approach, involving across governmental anti-corruption agencies and civil society actors. This may be facilitated through communication among those parties, including a sound whistleblowing system. Then, organisation also should consider preventive measures that go beyond from administrative or technical internal controls.

Originality/value

The results may give new directions for designing fraud prevention.
Exploring the emotional experience of lean
Authors: Taylor Siobhan , McSherry Robert , Cook Susy , Giles Emma
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This research aims to contribute to the literature on Lean implementation in healthcare by studying the emotional experiences of the relevant actors related to a Rapid Process Improvement Workshop (RPIW) in a UK healthcare context. The purpose of this study was to go beyond what people think about Lean and towards an exploration of their subjective, emotional and “feeling” experience and whether that emotional experience influenced Lean implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

A phenomenological and symbolic interactionist qualitative case study was undertaken. Data related to participants' emotional experience were collected through non-participant observation and semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using thematic network analysis.

Findings

This paper provides novel insights into the emotional experience of Lean as experienced through an RPIW. The findings reveal that participation in an RPIW is much more than a technical process. It influences how people feel about themselves, is based on relationships with others, and requires mental, physical and emotional effort. All of these factors influence engagement with, initiation of and sustainability of the RPIW.

Research limitations/implications

A new conceptual framework for the planning and implementation of RPIWs has been developed. However, because of the chosen research approach, the results may lack generalisability. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the framework and proposed practice implications.

Originality/value

Despite emotions being an integral part of individual and social everyday life, emotional experience has not been studied in relation to Lean. This study is the first to explore emotions in relation to Lean, with implications for practice as to how RPIWs are managed with a new framework for implementation being proposed.
Dynamic interactions among knowledge management, strategic foresight and emerging technologies
Authors: Nascimento Leandro da Silva , Reichert Fernanda Maciel , Janissek-Muniz Raquel , Zawislak Paulo Antônio
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the dynamic interactions among knowledge management, strategic foresight and emerging technologies, resulting in a framework that can help companies to shape these interactions for achieving positive outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

This conceptual paper is based on prior literature streams, which were interrelated through an abductive research process. This iterative conceptualization approach led to the formation of testable propositions that advance the understanding on the interactions among knowledge management, strategic foresight and emerging technologies.

Findings

The framework demonstrates the existence of an actions cycle between strategic foresight and knowledge management through a constructivist perspective, where one can improve the other. These interactions can be useful both for the development of emerging technologies and for identifying these innovations in market that can be applied in companies. Hence, all these dynamic interactions do not point to a hegemonic relationship of one construct over the others, but for the value equality among them.

Originality/value

Although current literature points to the existence of relationships among knowledge management, strategic foresight and emerging technologies, the dynamism inherent in these interactions as well as their positive effects for companies’ results are not properly discussed. This paper fills such a gap and proposes directions for future research.
Empowered or engaged employees? A fuzzy set analysis on knowledge transfer professionals
Authors: Cucino Valentina , Del Sarto Nicola , Di Minin Alberto , Piccaluga Andrea
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This paper combines the literature on knowledge transfer and that on organizational behavior to analyze how perceived empowerment and perceived engagement affect knowledge transfer offices’ (KTOs’) performance, measured in terms of the number of license agreements.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors measured the cognitions which constitute perceived empowerment and perceived engagement through a survey sent to Italian KTOs’ professionals. The authors performed “fuzzy set qualitative analysis” to investigate if this cognition, together or in isolation, may influence KTOs’ management performance, measured by the number of license agreements.

Findings

The results highlight the role of individual cognitions in influencing KTOs’ performance. Furthermore, an important finding from the analysis of the main configurations is that the co-presence of perceived engagement and perceived empowerment leads to more license agreements only in the presence of specific individual cognitions. More precisely, the level of organizational citizenship behavior, the degree to which an individual influences results at work (degree of impact) and the value of a work goal (degree of meaning) are the cognitions which lead to a higher number of license agreements.

Originality/value

Despite the growing interest in the investigation of the determinants of KTOs’ performance, a relevant research gap still concerns the explanation of KTOs’ performance considering individual cognitions such as attitudes, norms, perceived behavioral control and intentions. This study looks at the combined effect of the individual cognition of perceived engagement and perceived empowerment on KTOs’ performances.
Forward-looking financial risk management and the housing market in the United Kingdom: is there a role for sentiment indicators?
Authors: Kunze Frederik , Basse Tobias , Rodriguez Gonzalez Miguel , Vornholz Günter
Published: November 2020

Purpose

In the current low-interest market environment, more and more asset managers have started to consider to invest in property markets. To implement adequate and forward-looking risk management procedures, this market should be analyzed in more detail. Therefore, this study aims to examine the housing market data from the UK. More specifically, sentiment data and house prices are examined, using techniques of time-series econometrics suggested by Toda and Yamamoto (1995). The monthly data used in this study is the RICS Housing Market Survey and the Nationwide House Price Index – covering the period from January 2000 to December 2018. Furthermore, the authors also analyze the stability of the implemented Granger causality tests. In sum, the authors found clear empirical evidence for unidirectional Granger causality from sentiment indicator to the house prices index. Consequently, the sentiment indicator can help to forecast property prices in the UK.

Design/methodology/approach

By investigating sentiment data for house prices using techniques of time-series econometrics (more specifically the procedure suggested by Toda and Yamamoto, 1995), the research question whether sentiment indicators can be helpful to predict property prices in the UK is analyzed empirically.

Findings

The empirical results show that the RICS Housing Market Survey can help to predict the house prices in the UK.

Practical implications

Given these findings, the information provided by property market sentiment indicators certainly should be used in a forward-looking early warning system for house prices in the UK.

Originality/value

To authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper that uses the procedure suggested by Toda and Yamaoto to search for suitable early warning indicators for investors in UK real estate assets.
Transfer and maintenance of knowledge from leadership development
Authors: Soderhjelm Teresa Martha , Nordling Tone , Sandahl Christer , Larsson Gerry , Palm Kristina
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the possible factors related to transfer of knowledge and skills from two leadership development courses to the work environment and its maintenance for two years post training.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 12 leaders in two different types of courses were interviewed at least two years after their participation. Thematic analysis was used to identify patterns within the data that explained if, how and why these leaders used this knowledge and these skills in their leadership practice.

Findings

The most influential themes identified were personalized feedback in the courses, increased confidence in leadership roles after the courses, the opportunity to use new knowledge and skills at work, employee feedback, management facilitation and continual reflection.

Practical implications

Leadership development programs should include personalized feedback and reinforce continual reflection on the feedback and course content. The short-term goal of such programs should be to increase leaders’ confidence in their leadership role. The employer must offer opportunities for continual reflection, facilitate dialogue with employees, peers or superiors for long-term maintenance of skills and knowledge.

Originality/value

Outcome studies of leadership development programs are scarce and long-term follow-up of transfer and maintenance of knowledge, as this one, even more unusual.
Sustainable development through commitment to organizational change: the implications of organizational culture and individual readiness for change
Authors: Olafsen Anja Hagen , Nilsen Etty R. , Smedsrud Stian , Kamaric Denisa
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Future organizations must focus on their ability to change to be sustainable, and this calls more attention to sustainability as an organizational issue. However, change initiatives often fail because of a lack of employee commitment. The purpose of this study is to examine how organizational culture and individual readiness for change (IRFC) relate to types of commitment to change.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data from a sample of 259 employees in a Norwegian public organization undergoing major strategic changes were used to test the hypothesized relations.

Findings

The results show that flexible and stable organizational cultures did not relate differently to types of change commitment. This may indicate that the strength, rather than the type, of organizational culture is vital for change commitment. Nevertheless, a flexible organizational culture had a clearer relation to positive change commitment; in part through its positive relation with both change self-efficacy and negative personal valence. These are important dimensions of IRFC.

Originality/value

The study contributes to a nuanced understanding of the role of contextual and individual factors in explaining various types of commitment to organizational change, in particular, by examining the distinction between flexible and stable organizational culture, as well as separate dimensions of IRFC. A flexible culture together with both of the included dimensions of IRFC is shown to be of importance in fostering affective commitment to change – the gold standard of change commitment. Recognizing sustainability as an organizational issue underscores the need for creating a culture conducive to change.
The role of news title for linking during preservation process in digital archives
Authors: Khan Muzammil , Khan Sarwar Shah , Ahmad Arshad , Rahman Arif Ur
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The World Wide Web has become an essential platform for a news publication, and it has become one of the primary sources of information dissemination in the past few years. Electronic media, i.e., television channels, magazines and newspapers, have started publishing news online. This online information is prompt to be disappeared because of short life-span and imperative to be archived for the long-term and future generations. This paper presents a content-based similarity measure based on the headings of the news articles for linking digital news stories published in various newspapers during the preservation process that helps to ensure future accessibility.

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate the accuracy and assess the effectiveness and worth of the proposed measure for linking news articles in Digital News Story Archive (DNSA), we adopted both, system-centric and user-centric (human judgment) evaluation over different datasets of news articles.

Findings

The proposed similarity measure is evaluated using different sizes of datasets, and the results are compared by both user-centric technique, i.e., expert judgment and system-centric techniques, i.e., cosine similarity measure, extended Jaccard measure and common ratio measure for stories (CRMS). The comparison helps to get a broader impact and can be helpful for generalization of the measure for different categories of news articles. Multiple experiments have conducted the findings of which showed that the measure presented viable results for national and international news, while best results for linking sports news articles during preservation based on headings.

Originality/value

The DNSA preserves a huge number of news articles from multiple news sources and to link with a vast collection, which encourages to introduce an efficient linking mechanism with few terms to manipulate. The CRMS is modified to deal with the headings of news articles as a part of the digital news stories preservation framework and comprehensively analysed.
Impact of academic libraries on grade point average (GPA): a review
Authors: Sterner Elizabeth A.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the literature to determine how academic librarians are measuring their libraries' institutional level impact on student success as measured by grade point average, a metric commonly used in American education. This paper highlights a range of methods, outcomes and challenges in an initial scoping study.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology centered on a literature review of measuring the impact of academic libraries on student success as quantified by grade point average (GPA) from 2010 to present. Searches in ProQuest, EBSCO and Google Scholar were used to identify the relevant literature. Keywords searched in databases included various combinations of academic impact, student success, learning outcomes, library and higher education.

Findings

The analysis of 15 papers shows that academic librarians have demonstrated a small, nonnegligible positive correlation of library usage on GPA. The results of studies have highlighted that correlation does not prove the cause. Concerns and limitations of studies included using the GPA as a measurement of student success, differences between GPAs in subject areas, timeframes used, sample size collected, student privacy and the meanings of the results.

Research limitations/implications

This study is limited to articles published in English measuring student success as quantified by GPA and focuses heavily on American sources.

Originality/value

The research can guide librarians through known challenges and highlight successful designs and study methods used by other academic librarians to measure the impact of the library on student success.
Investigation of the effect of torch tilt and external magnetic field on arc during overlapping deposition of wire arc additive manufacturing
Authors: Zhou Xiangman , Tian Qihua , Du Yixian , Zhang Yancheng , Bai Xingwang , Zhang Yicha , Zhang Haiou , Zhang Congyang , Yuan Youlu
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find a theoretical reference to adjust the unsymmetrical arc shape and plasma flow of overlapping deposition in wire arc additive manufacturing (WAAM) and ensure the effect of the gas shielding and stable heat and mass transfer in deposition process. The multiphysical numerical simulation and physical experiment are used for validation.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, welding torch tilt deposition and external parallel magnetic field–assisted deposition are presented to adjust the unsymmetrical arc shape and plasma flow of overlapping deposition, and a three-dimensional numerical model is developed to simulate the arc of torch tilt overlapping deposition and external parallel magnetic field–assisted overlapping deposition.

Findings

The comparison of simulated results indicate that the angle of welding torch tilt equal to 20° and the magnetic flux density of external transverse magnetic field equal to 0.001 Tesla are capable of balancing the electric arc and shielding gas effectively, respectively. The arc profiles captured by a high-speed camera match well with simulated results.

Originality/value

These studies of this paper can provide a theoretical basis and reference for the calibration and optimization of WAAM process parameters.
Modeling the optimal diversification opportunities: the case of crypto portfolios and equity portfolios
Authors: Aliu Florin , Nuhiu Artor , Krasniqi Besnik A. , Jusufi Gent
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to compare the diversification risk of the crypto portfolio with those of equity portfolios. For this purpose, the hypothetical index was constructed with 20 cryptocurrencies that hold the highest market capitalization in the Coin Market Cap database, named as the Crypto-Index 20.

Design/methodology/approach

The portfolio diversification techniques were used to identify risk linked with the six largest European equity indexes and compared with the Crypto-Index 20. Indexes were considered as an independent portfolio while analysis was completed separately for each of them. Data concerning stock prices and their trade volume were collected from the Thomson Reuters Eikon database while crypto prices and their trade volume from the Coin Market Cap database. The diversification risk of the stock indexes was measured separately for each portfolio with the same risk techniques and the same methodological process.

Findings

Research results indicate that Crypto-Index 20 on average was 76 times riskier than FTSE 100, 55 times riskier than FTSE MIB, 44 times riskier than IBEX 35, 10 times riskier than CAC 40 and 9 times riskier than DAX and MDAX. Crypto-Index 20 comprises a stronger positive correlation and is exposed to higher volatility than six selected European equity indexes.

Originality/value

This research provides practical implications for the investors on the diversification benefits and risks attached to the cryptocurrencies portfolio by comparing it with the traditional equity portfolios. From a policy perspective, regulators might obtain information on the risk properties involved into cryptocurrencies and the possibility of creating an optimal portfolio.
Rising powers or bitter frenemies? India-China relations in the 21st century?
Authors: Kaura Vinay
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The main purpose of paper is to analyse the political, military and strategic significance of China’s rising power and its influence on Sino-Indian relations, while addressing the question as to why India has not been able to develop a long-term, stable and friendly relationship with China.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is structured as follows: historical overview of India-China relations; various tools of China’s policy in Indian sub-continent; and India’s response. The paper employs a qualitative analysis of secondary literature, with media reports, official documents and public statements providing important sources for understanding the dynamics underlying bilateral relationship.

Findings

India needs to be prepared to face challenges as China’s charm offensive in India’s neighbourhood is primarily aimed at establishing a new Asian order in which Beijing would play the leading role. As China institutionalizes its military presence in South Asia and the Indian Ocean, India should adopt an innovative response mechanism, also involving counter-presence in areas considered China’s traditional sphere of influence.

Originality/value

The primary value of the paper lies in the fact that it covers most of the key dimensions of bilateral ties that impair a stable relationship between India and China. A proper understanding of the dynamics underlying bilateral ties may help the policymakers, scholars and academics to suggest ways to reduce sources of tensions, while also helping the Indian Government to prepare effective countermeasures.
Development of comprehensive coursework of quality management in universities pertinent to the construction industry: a case of Pakistan
Authors: Irfan Muhammad , Thaheem Muhammad Jamaluddin , Kaka Khel Syyed Sami Ul Haq , Faizan Ul Haq Muhammad , Saeed Zafar Muhammad , Ehtsham Muhammad
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to determine a comprehensive coursework for teaching quality management in the universities of developing countries i.e. Pakistan pertinent to the construction industry. Additionally, a framework was also developed based on the results.

Design/methodology/approach

Factors and course contents of quality management are extracted through a content analysis of the published literature. Further, a questionnaire survey is conducted involving 150 professionals to assess the requirements of the industry and academic professionals of the construction industry for effective quality management. Finally, for getting a more objective perspective, using quality function deployment (QFD) matrix a framework is developed.

Findings

The results show the level of importance of each design requirement. We can identify the design requirements through which we can fulfill the needs and demands of the stakeholders. Contents like benchmarking, supply chain management, six sigma and other data analysis methods, costing and auditing of quality, customer satisfaction analysis, TQM: theory and practices and ISO certification processes and procedures should be included in any course program related to quality management pertinent to the construction industry. Along with these contents, workshops and seminars must be arranged to address the user requirement for increased leadership and communication skills.

Originality/value

There is a lack of literature available on course content for quality management in the universities for the construction sector, therefore, a huge scope of future research in the field of quality management in the construction industry needs to be investigated. This research highlights the most significant quality management factors and course contents as per the requirement of industry professionals. Therefore, this study adds to the existing body of knowledge by developing a robust framework that will help decision-makers and top management to develop constructive quality management course work at university level that will help in producing qualified and trained quality professionals to the construction industry.
Subsurface structures of the Xiaorequanzi deposit, NW China: new insights from gravity, magnetic and electromagnetic data
Authors: Shaole An , Zhixin Zhang , Kefa Zhou , Jinlin Wang
Published: November 2020

The Xiaorequanzi copper–zinc deposit, located in the eastern Tianshan, is considered as a medium‐sized polymetallic deposit in Xinjiang, NW China. Understanding the structural framework and delineating the location of intrusions as well as the distribution of ore‐controlling strata in this mining area are vital for identifying new potential exploration areas. This paper aims to provide new information on the subsurface structures of the Xiaorequanzi copper–zinc deposit and to explore new target area for the ore prospecting based on comprehensive interpretation of multiple geophysical datasets. Several potential field filtering methods were used to study the spatial distribution of the geological structure. The structural lineament was delineated based on various source boundary detection results. Euler deconvolution method was used to estimate the field source depth, and the structure model was constructed from 2.5D forward gravity modelling, constrained by borehole and electromagnetic data. The results indicate that the local gravity highs may be the concentration of mineralized rocks with high density extending to depths of several hundred meters; the magnetic highs are related to mineralized rocks/intrusive rocks that are close to the surface. The tectonic framework of the whole ore bed is mainly controlled by NW‐SE, E‐W and NE‐SW structures, in which NE‐SW structures are related closely to mineralization and may provide optimum conditions for magma emplacement and fluid migration. Our research will help to study the tectonic evolution and guide further exploration of the deposit.
Molecular insights into the ecology of a psychrotolerant Pseudomonas syringae
Authors: Pavankumar Theetha L. , Mittal Pragya , Hallsworth John E.
Published: November 2020

Low temperatures constrain cellular life due to reductions in nutrient uptake, enzyme kinetics, membrane permeability, and function of other biomacromolecules. This has implications for the biophysical limits of life on Earth, and the plausibility of life in extraterrestrial locations. Although most pseudomonads are mesophilic in nature, isolates such as the Antarctic Pseudomonas syringae Lz4W exhibit considerable psychrotolerance, with an ability to grow even between 4 and 0°C. In this review, we explore the molecular traits and characteristic phenotypes of P. syringae Lz4W that enable life at low temperatures. We describe adaptations that enhance membrane fluidity; examine genes involved in cellular function and survival in the cold; assess capability for energy generation at low temperature; and detail the mechanics of DNA repair and RNA processing at low temperature, and speculate that P. syringae Lz4W can also synthesize glycerol to maintain flexibility of macromolecular systems. In the range 4 to 0ºC, there are considerable changes in the properties and behaviour of water. Specifically, density can have adverse impacts on plasma‐membrane functions, cytoplasmic viscosity, protein behaviour, and other essential properties of cellular system. We identified a combination of adaptations that may be peculiar to cold‐tolerant P. syringae, including increase of unsaturated fatty acids in the plasma membrane; a RNA polymerase able to function at 0°C; RecBCD‐ and RuvAB‐dependent reestablishment of replication fork; and efficiencies of degradosome machinery and RNA processing by RNaseR at low temperature. Several unresolved questions are discussed in the context of astrobiology, and further work needed on the psychrotolerance of P. syringae.
FgPKS7 is an essential player in mating‐type‐mediated regulatory pathway required for completing sexual cycle in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Kim Da‐Woon , Shin Yoo‐Kyoung , Lee Sang‐Won , Wimonmuang Kanphassorn , Kang Kyo Bin , Lee Young‐Sang , Yun Sung‐Hwan
Published: November 2020

Secondary metabolism is intimately linked to developmental processes in filamentous fungi. In a previous study, we revealed that several polyketide synthase (PKS) genes, including FgPKS7, are specifically induced during formation of the sexual fruiting body (perithecium) in the cereal pathogen Fusarium graminearum. The function of PKS7, which is essential for perithecial development and hyphal growth, is interchangeable between two phylogenetically related species, F. graminearum and F. asiaticum, but not conserved in the more distantly related species F. fujikuroi and F. neocosmosporiellum. FgPKS7 is under the control of global or upstream regulators including the mating‐type (MAT) locus and regulates numerous downstream genes that are transcriptionally specific to and functionally essential for sexual development, several other PKS genes, and ABC transporter genes for azole resistance in F. graminearum. FgPKS7 is an essential element for proper sexual development and participates in a regulatory network controlled by the MAT locus. Although the chemical identity of FgPKS7 remains unclear, FgPKS7 is likely involved in chemical reaction(s) for synthesis of metabolite(s) that control or promote perithecial maturation in F. graminearum. This study provides in‐depth insights into the direct role of secondary metabolites in sexual development of filamentous fungi.
Comparative genomic analysis of iprodione‐degrading Paenarthrobacter strains reveals the iprodione catabolic molecular mechanism in Paenarthrobacter sp. strain YJN‐5
Authors: Zhang Mingliang , Ren Yijun , Jiang Wankui , Wu Chenglong , Zhou Yidong , Wang Hui , Ke Zhijian , Gao Qinqin , Liu Xiaoan , Qiu Jiguo , Hong Qing
Published: November 2020

Degradation of the fungicide iprodione by the Paenarthrobacter sp. strain YJN‐5 is initiated via hydrolysis of its N1 amide bond to form N‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐2,4‐dioxoimidazolidine. In this study, another iprodione‐degrading strain, Paenarthrobacter sp. YJN‐D, which harbours the same metabolic pathway as strain YJN‐5 was isolated and characterized. The genes that encode the conserved iprodione catabolic pathway were identified based on comparative analysis of the genomes of the two iprodione‐degrading Paenarthrobacter sp. and subsequent experimental validation. These genes include an amidase gene, ipaH (previously reported in AEM e01150‐18); a deacetylase gene, ddaH, which is responsible for hydantoin ring cleavage of N‐(3,5‐dichlorophenyl)‐2,4‐dioxoimidazolidine, and a hydrolase gene, duaH, which is responsible for cleavage of the urea side chain of (3,5‐dichlorophenylurea)acetic acid, thus yielding 3,5‐dichloroaniline as the end product. These iprodione‐catabolic genes are distributed on three plasmids in strain YJN‐5 and are highly conserved between the two iprodione‐degrading Paenarthrobacter strains. However, only the ipaH gene is flanked by a mobile genetic element. Two iprodione degradation cassettes bearing ipaH‐ddaH‐duaH were constructed and expressed in strains Pseudomonas putida KT2440 and Bacillus subtilis SCK6 respectively. Our findings enhance the current understanding of the microbial degradation mechanism of iprodione.
Isolation and genomic characterization of the ibuprofen‐degrading bacterium Sphingomonas strain MPO218
Authors: Aulestia Magaly , Flores Amando , Mangas Eugenio L. , Pérez‐Pulido Antonio J. , Santero Eduardo , Camacho Eva M.
Published: November 2020

The presence of pharmaceutical compounds in waters and soils is of particular concern because these compounds can be biologically active, even at environmental concentrations. Most pharmaceutical contaminants result from inefficient removal of these compounds during wastewater treatment. Although microorganisms able to biodegrade pharmaceuticals compounds have been described, the isolation and characterization of new bacterial strains capable of degrading drugs remain important to improve the removal of this pollutant. In this work, we describe the Sphingomonas wittichii strain MPO218 as able to use ibuprofen as the sole carbon and energy source. The genome of MPO218 consists of a circular chromosome and two circular plasmids. Our analysis shows that the largest plasmid, named pIBU218, is conjugative and can horizontally transfer the capability of growing on ibuprofen after conjugation with another related bacterium, Sphingopyxis granuli TFA. This plasmid appears to be unstable since it undergoes different deletions in absence of selection when growth on ibuprofen is not selected. This is the first described example of a natural and conjugative plasmid that enables growth on ibuprofen and is another example of how horizontal gene transfer plays a crucial role in the evolution of bacteria.
The marine bivalve molluscs pathogen Vibrio neptunius produces the siderophore amphibactin, which is widespread in molluscs microbiota
Authors: Galvis Fabián , Ageitos Lucía , Martínez‐Matamoros Diana , Barja Juan L. , Rodríguez Jaime , Lemos Manuel L. , Jiménez Carlos , Balado Miguel
Published: November 2020

Amphiphilic siderophores, including amphibactins, are the most abundant siderophores in oceans. Genes putatively encoding the amphibactin system were proposed in some bacteria and homologues of these genes are particularly abundant in multiple bacterial lineages inhabitant of low‐iron seawater. However, since no defective mutant strains in any of these genes were studied to date, their role in amphibactin synthesis or uptake was not demonstrated. In this work, an in silico analysis of the genome of the mollusc pathogen Vibrio neptunius leads us to identify a gene cluster (denoted absABDEF) that is predicted to encode an amphibactin‐like siderophore and several mutant strains unable to synthesize or use siderophores were constructed. The results showed that genes absABDEF are required for amphibactin synthesis. A comparative chemical analysis of V. neptunius wild type and biosynthesis mutants allowed us to identify a mixture of nine amphibactin forms produced by this bacterium. In addition, the gene abtA is predicted to encode the ferri‐amphibactin outer membrane transporter. The prevalence of the amphibactin system in bivalve hemolymph microbiota was also studied. We found that the amphibactin system is widespread in hemolymph microbiota including both commensal and pathogenic bacterial species. Thus, its contribution to bacterial fitness must be more related to environmental persistence than to pathogenicity.
Consent and refusal of treatment by older children in emergency settings
Authors: Moritz Dominique , Ebbs Phillip
Published: November 2020

The law recognises that children can exert an increasing level of autonomy and decision‐making about their healthcare as they mature, and that intelligence and maturity levels will vary from one child to the next. Therefore, the parameters for when older children can consent to healthcare can be a complex area for clinicians to navigate. Refusal of treatment provides additional challenges for clinicians because the law is less clear about when older children can be involved in refusing treatment which is in their best interests. This article outlines relevant legislation concerning child consent to treatment across Australian jurisdictions and examines refusal of treatment by children using the 2018 case of Mercy Hospitals Victoria v D1 & Anor.
Effect of radiographic disease severity in high‐resolution quantitative computed tomography assessment of metacarpophalangeal joint erosion and cysts
Authors: Blavnsfeldt Anne‐Birgitte Garm , Klose‐Jensen Rasmus , Thygesen Jesper , Therkildsen Philip , Langdahl Bente Lomholdt , Keller Kresten Krarup , Hauge Ellen‐Margrethe
Published: November 2020

Aim

Bone erosions are the hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis (RA). High‐resolution peripheral quantitative computed tomography (HR‐pQCT) enables 3‐dimensional visualization of arthritic bone erosions at a high resolution. However, the degree of erosive disease could influence the reliability of HR‐pQCT evaluation. We aim to assess the intra‐ and inter‐reader variability of identification of erosions in the metacarpophalangeal (MCP) joints using HR‐pQCT in healthy controls and patients with RA, stratified according to van der Heijde‐modified Sharp Score (HSS) of radiographic erosions.

Method

We analyzed HR‐pQCT images from 78 patients with RA and 25 healthy controls. Patients were allocated to one of three groups of mild, moderate or severe disease according to HSS of MCP joints 2 and 3. Total HR‐pQCT scans were analyzed twice in random order by three experienced readers, blinded to group distribution. The number of cortical interruptions and their classification as either erosions or cysts according to predefined criteria were recorded. Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) for cortical interruptions, erosions and cysts were calculated for each group using a 2‐way random‐effects model for inter‐reader ICC and a 2‐way mixed‐effects model for intra‐reader ICC.

Results

The intra‐ and inter‐reader ICC were good to moderate for cortical interruptions and moderate for erosions throughout disease severity groups. The ICCs for the identification of cysts decreased with increasing degree of erosive disease.

Conclusion

The detection of cortical interruptions is only minimally affected by the degree of erosive damage, whereas the distinction between erosions and cysts is more complex in patients with extensive erosive disease.
NANDA‐I, NOC, and NIC linkages to SARS‐CoV‐2 (COVID‐19): Part 2. Individual response
Authors: Swanson Elizabeth , Mantovani Vanessa Monteiro , Wagner Cheryl , Moorhead Sue , Lopez Karen Dunn , Macieira Tamara Gonçalves Rezende , Abe Noriko
Published: November 2020

Purpose

To provide guidance to nurses caring for individuals with COVID‐19, we developed linkages using interoperable standardized nursing terminologies: NANDA International (NANDA‐I) nursing diagnoses, Nursing Interventions Classification (NIC), and Nursing Outcomes Classification (NOC). We also identified potential new NANDA‐I nursing diagnoses, NOC outcomes, and NIC interventions for future development related to nurses’ role during a pandemic.

Methods

Using a consensus process, seven nurse experts created the linkages for individuals during the COVID 19 pandemic using the following steps: (a) creating an initial list of potential nursing diagnoses, (b) selecting and categorizing outcomes that aligned with all components of each nursing diagnosis selected, and (c) identifying relevant nursing interventions.

Findings

A total of 16 NANDA‐I nursing diagnoses were identified as the foundation for the linkage work, organized in two dimensions, physiological and psychosocial. A total of 171 different NOC outcomes were identified to guide care based on the nursing diagnoses and 96 NIC interventions were identified as suggested interventions. A total of 13 proposed concepts were identified for potential future development across the three classifications.

Conclusions

The linkages of nursing diagnoses, outcomes, and interventions developed in this article provide a guide to enhance nursing practice and determine the effectiveness of nurses’ contribution to patient outcomes for individuals at risk for or infected by COVID‐19.

Implications for nursing practice

NANDA‐I, NOC, and NIC linkages identified in this paper are an important example of the value of using standardized nursing terminologies to guide and document nursing care. When included in electronic health record databases and used widely, the data generated from the care plans can be used to create new knowledge about how to better improve outcomes for patients with COVID‐19.
Effect of alcohol label designs with different pictorial representations of alcohol content and health warnings on knowledge and understanding of low‐risk drinking guidelines: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gold Natalie , Egan Mark , Londakova Kristina , Mottershaw Abigail , Harper Hugo , Burton Robyn , Henn Clive , Smolar Maria , Walmsley Matthew , Arambepola Rohan , Watson Robin , Bowen Sarah , Greaves Felix
Published: November 2020

Background and aims

The UK low‐risk drinking guidelines (LRDG) recommend not regularly drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week. We tested the effect of different pictorial representations of alcohol content, some with a health warning, on knowledge of the LRDG and understanding of how many drinks it equates to.

Design

Parallel randomized controlled trial.

Setting

On‐line, 25 January–1 February 2019.

Participants

Participants (n = 7516) were English, aged over 18 years and drink alcohol.

Interventions

The control group saw existing industry‐standard labels; six intervention groups saw designs based on: food labels (serving or serving and container), pictographs (servings or containers), pie charts (servings) or risk gradients. A total of 500 participants (~70 per condition) saw a health warning under the design.

Measurements

Primary outcomes: (i) knowledge: proportion who answered that the LRDG is 14 units; and (ii) understanding: how many servings/containers of beverages one can drink before reaching 14 units (10 questions, average distance from correct answer).

Findings

In the control group, 21.5% knew the LRDG; proportions were higher in intervention groups (all P < 0.001). The three best‐performing designs had the LRDG in a separate statement, beneath the pictograph container: 51.1% [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 3.74, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 3.08–4.54], pictograph serving 48.8% (aOR = 4.11, 95% CI = 3.39–4.99) and pie‐chart serving, 47.5% (aOR = 3.57, 95% CI = 2.93–4.34). Participants underestimated how many servings they could drink: control mean = −4.64, standard deviation (SD) = 3.43; intervention groups were more accurate (all P < 0.001), best performing was pictograph serving (mean = −0.93, SD = 3.43). Participants overestimated how many containers they could drink: control mean = 0.09, SD = 1.02; intervention groups overestimated even more (all P < 0.007), worst‐performing was food label serving (mean = 1.10, SD = 1.27). Participants judged the alcohol content of beers more accurately than wine or spirits. The inclusion of a health warning had no statistically significant effect on any measure.

Conclusions

Labels with enhanced pictorial representations of alcohol content improved knowledge and understanding of the UK's low‐risk drinking guidelines compared with industry‐standard labels; health warnings did not improve knowledge or understanding of low‐risk drinking guidelines. Designs that improved knowledge most had the low‐risk drinking guidelines in a separate statement located beneath the graphics.
Wildflower plantings on fruit farms provide pollen resources and increase nesting by stem nesting bees
Authors: Graham Kelsey K. , Perkins Jacquelyn A. , Peake Alexandrea , Killewald Michael , Zavalnitskaya Jennifer , Wilson Julianna K. , Isaacs Rufus
Published: November 2020

Wildflower plantings on farms have been shown to attract foraging wild bees, however, whether these added floral resources increase nesting densities of bees remains largely untested.

We placed nest boxes containing natural reeds at 20 fruit farms in Michigan. We then compared nesting densities between farms with and without wildflower plantings and analysed nest provisions to evaluate use of wildflower plantings for brood provisioning.

We found significantly greater nesting at farms with wildflower plantings, with only one out of 236 completed nests at a farm without a planting. The majority of nests were completed by Megachile pugnata, with a portion of nests completed by Osmia caerulescens.

We found that nesting bees collected pollen from only a subset of the available flowers in the wildflower plantings, with a strong preference for Centaurea maculosa, and Rudbeckia type pollens. While these species were found growing in the plantings, only Rudbeckia type species were seeded in the plantings.

This study provides evidence that wildflower plantings (though not only seeded species) are filling a critical resource gap for stem‐nesting bees in agricultural landscapes and likely support local populations.