bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanisms for Electron Uptake byMethanosarcina acetivoransDuring Direct Interspecies Electron Transfer
Authors: Holmes Dawn E. , Zhou Jinjie , Ueki Toshiyuki , Woodard Trevor , Lovley Derek R.
Published: June 2021

Direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) between bacteria and methanogenic archaea appears to be an important syntrophy in both natural and engineered methanogenic environments. However, the electrical connections on the outer surface of methanogens and the subsequent processing of electrons for carbon dioxide reduction to methane are poorly understood. Here we report that the genetically tractable methanogenMethanosarcina acetivoranscan grow via DIET in co-culture withGeobacter metallireducensserving as the electron-donating partner. Comparison of gene expression patterns inM. acetivoransgrown in co-culture versus pure culture growth on acetate revealed that transcripts for the outer-surface, multi-heme,c-type cytochrome MmcA were higher during DIET-based growth. Deletion ofmmcAinhibited DIET. The high aromatic amino acid content ofM. acetivoransarchaellins suggests that they might assemble into electrically conductive archaella. A mutant that could not express archaella was deficient in DIET. However, this mutant grew in DIET-based co-culture as well as the archaella-expressing parental strain in the presence of granular activated carbon, which was previously shown to serve as a substitute for electrically conductive pili as a conduit for long-range interspecies electron transfer in other DIET-based co-cultures. Transcriptomic data suggesting that the membrane-bound Rnf, Fpo, and HdrED complexes also play a role in DIET were incorporated into a charge-balanced model illustrating how electrons entering the cell through MmcA can yield energy to support growth from carbon dioxide reduction. The results are the first genetics-based functional demonstration of likely outer-surface electrical contacts for DIET in a methanogen.

Importance

The conversion of organic matter to methane plays an important role in the global carbon cycle and is an effective strategy for converting wastes to a useful biofuel. The reduction of carbon dioxide to methane accounts for approximately a third of the methane produced in anaerobic soils and sediments as well as waste digesters. Potential electron donors for carbon dioxide reduction are H2or electrons derived from direct interspecies electron transfer (DIET) between bacteria and methanogens. Elucidating the relative importance of these electron donors has been difficult due to a lack of information on the electrical connects on the outer surface of methanogens and how they process the electrons received from DIET. Transcriptomic patterns and gene deletion phenotypes reported here provide insight into how a group ofMethanosarcinathat play an important role in methane production in soils and sediments participate in DIET.
Oncomodulin Delays Age-Related Hearing Loss in C57 and CBA Mice
Authors: Climer Leslie K. , Hornak Aubrey J. , Murtha Kaitlin , Yang Yang , Cox Andrew M. , Simpson Preston L. , Le Andy , Simmons Dwayne D.
Published: June 2021

Ca2+ signaling is a major contributor to sensory hair cell function in the cochlea. Oncomodulin (OCM) is a Ca2+ binding protein preferentially expressed in outer hair cells of the cochlea and few other specialized cell types. Here, we expand on our previous reports and show that OCM prevents early progressive hearing loss in mice of two different genetic backgrounds: CBA/CaJ and C57BI/6J. In both backgrounds, genetic disruption of Ocm leads to early progressive hearing loss as measured by auditory brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacoustic emission (DPOAE). In both strains, loss of Ocm reduced hearing across lifetime (hearing span) by more than 50% relative to wild type (WT). Even though the two WT strains have very different hearing spans, OCM plays a considerable and similar role within their genetic environment to regulate hearing function. The accelerated ARHL of the Ocm KO illustrates the importance of Ca2+ signaling in maintaining hearing health.
Complete loss of mitochondrial complex I genes in mistletoes (Viscaceae) and evidence of polyadenylated mitochondrial transcripts shown by whole transcriptome sequencing
Authors: Zervas Athanasios , Takenaka Mizuki , Leebens-Mack James , Seberg Ole , Petersen Gitte
Published: June 2021

The profound absence of mitochondrial complex I (NADH-ubiquinone oxidoreductase) genes from the mitogenome of Viscum spp. and the rapid rates of molecular evolution characterizing most of their remaining mitochondrial genes raise questions regarding the possible transfer of the entire nad gene set to the nucleus, as well as for the functionality of the remaining highly divergent genes. Using whole transcriptome sequencing in three species of Viscaceae: V. album, V. crassulae, and Phoradendron leucarpum we were able to confirm transcription of all previously identified genes. However, we did not detect any nad gene transcripts, thus, providing further evidence of the complete loss of complex I in Viscaceae. The results from transcriptome sequencing also revealed that levels and patterns of RNA editing were not different from those found in autotrophic plant species. Hence, RNA editing is not a means of restoring conserved domains or folding sites of the proteins coded for by the divergent mitochondrial genes. Since we were able to recover mitochondrial genes transcripts following a sequencing protocol targeted towards polyadenylated mRNA molecules, it is suggested that mitochondrial genes undergo post-transcriptional polyadenylation in Viscaceae.
Trajectory tracking and point stability of three-axis aero-dynamic pendulum with MPC strategy in disturbance environment
Authors: Liu Xiaofeng , Xu Jiahong , Liu Yuhong
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this research on the control of three-axis aero-dynamic pendulum with disturbance is to facilitate the applications of equipment with similar pendulum structure in intelligent manufacturing and robot.

Design/methodology/approach

The controller proposed in this paper is mainly implemented in the following ways. First, the kinematic model of the three-axis aero-dynamic pendulum is derived in state space form to construct the predictive model. Then, according to the predictive model and objective function, the control problem can be expressed a quadratic programming (QP) problem. The optimal solution of the QP problem at each sampling time is the value of control variable.

Findings

The trajectory tracking and point stability tests performed on the 3D space with different disturbances are validated and the results show the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a nonlinear unstable three-axis aero-dynamic pendulum with less power devices. Meanwhile, the trajectory tracking and point stability problem of the pendulum system is investigated with the model predictive control strategy.
Factors impacting on accounting academics’ motivation and capacity to adapt in challenging times
Authors: Beatson Nicola , de Lange Paul , O'Connell Brendan , Tharapos Meredith , Smith Jeffrey K.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to consider what factors influence the ability of academic staff to remain motivated and to persist in their work environment during the COVID-19 pandemic. Tinto’s (2017) model of student motivation and persistence is reconceptualised to apply to the academic staff by considering their self-efficacy beliefs, sense of belonging and perceptions of career relevance on their motivation levels and adaption to a new environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilising Tinto’s (2017) reconceptualised model for academics, this study provides insights into motivation and capacity to adapt during the COVID-19 pandemic. This paper presents observations and reflections from five academics from three universities across two countries in relation to self-efficacy, sense of belonging and perception of career relevance.

Findings

The findings of this study state that self-efficacy beliefs, a sense of belonging and perceptions of career relevance combine to drive both academics’ motivation levels and their ability to adapt to the changing landscape. Self-efficacy was influenced by factors such as struggles with adaptation to new online technologies and researching and teaching in a virtual environment. Academics’ sense of belonging was found to be challenged in unprecedented ways because of physical isolation and sometimes unfavourable home working environments. Perceptions of career relevance were found to be challenged by adverse developments such as reduced promotional opportunities, cuts in resourcing and job insecurity.

Originality/value

This paper makes three important contributions. First, Tinto’s (2017) model of student motivation and persistence is extended to examine academic motivation, adaption and persistence. Second, the model is applied to a crisis where staff face greater strain in maintaining connection to their colleagues and their university. Third, the influence of the COVID-19 crisis is examined by using the reconceptualised Tinto (2017) model in the context of accounting, as accounting international student enrolments and associated revenue streams have been impacted significantly more than those of many other disciplines.
Premium, popular and basic olive oils: mapping product segmentation and consumer profiles for different classes of olive oil
Authors: Di Vita Giuseppe , Zanchini Raffaele , Gulisano Giovanni , Mancuso Teresina , Chinnici Gaetano , D'Amico Mario
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Urban metropolitan consumers react to the different qualitative categorizations of the product thus creating homogeneous market segments. The aim of this paper is to identify specific market segments which allow for the definition of homogeneous olive oil consumer targets.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was based on the stated preferences of consumers and emphasizes the role that different quality scales of olive oil have in the eye of the consumer. The data, collected through a questionnaire, were analysed by means of inferential and multivariate statistics techniques, that is, the study specifically entailed a factorial and cluster analysis.

Findings

This paper explores olive oil market segments broken down by the different quality levels of existing products, thus trying to identify main consumer preferences. Our outcomes suggest the existence of three main quality classes of olive oil consumer: basic, popular and premium.

Research limitations/implications

Even though we gathered data and information from a broad sample, the study does not fully reflect the average Italian population since we based our study on a convenience sample of northern Italian consumers. A more extended sample is needed to test our hypothesis in other regional areas.

Practical implications

The outcomes derived from this study provide useful insights both for marketers and olive oil producers by allowing more efficient strategic decisions in terms of product segmentation.

Originality/value

This study, aimed at matching olive oil market segments and consumer preferences, shows the existence of three well-defined quality classes of olive oil consumer: basic, popular and premium. In addition, this study ascertains for the first time how the attitude towards local products is positively influenced by family origin as a result of an inter-generational attitude.
Coffee shop corporate social responsibility (CSR) and reuse intention using triple bottom line theory
Authors: Shim Ji Min , Lee Won Seok , Moon Joonho , Song Myungkeun
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify the attributes that statistically affect reason intention. The triple bottom line, a theoretical framework of corporate social responsibility (CSR) consisting of economic, social and environmental subdimensions, is used as the theoretical foundation.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, price fairness, quarantine and hygiene, and eco-friendliness represent economic, social and environmental CSR, respectively. Amazon Mechanical Turk is used for data collection. The valid number of observations is 474. Structural equation modeling is implemented to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The results indicate that price fairness, quarantine and hygiene positively affect the reuse intention of coffee shops. However, eco-friendliness appears to be an attribute that does not significantly affect reuse intention.

Originality/value

This study theoretically contributes to the literature by demonstrating the explanatory power of triple bottom line theory for café customer intention.
Short supply chain participation, and agrochemicals' use intensity and efficiency: evidence from vegetable farms in China
Authors: Zhang Xiaoheng , Yu Xiaohua
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Overuse of chemical fertilizers and pesticides is a major policy concern for many countries. Chinese government has adopted many technologies and management practices to reduce their use. However, little is known about the effects of social-economic method such as short supply chain (SSC) participation. SSC is an important organizational innovation in fresh food supply chains aiming at directly connecting farmers and consumers. Closer relationships between farmers and consumers may result in production behavioral changes. Thus the purpose of this paper is to investigate the impacts of SSC participation on agrochemicals application.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the household level data collected from Jiangsu province in China, this paper employs an instrumental variable (IV) method to address the self-selection bias when we evaluate the effects of SSC participation on use of chemical fertilizer and pesticides. In addition, this paper also distinguishes between growth inputs and facilitating inputs in the production function when we calculate the marginal production values of chemical fertilizer and pesticides.

Findings

The empirical results show that SSC participation significantly reduces chemical fertilizer use by 351 kg and pesticides costs by 1659 Yuan (RMB) per hectare, accounting for 43.4% of the average chemical fertilizer use and 49.4% of the average pesticide costs, respectively for Chinese vegetable farms. However, SSC participation still cannot improve the use efficiency of agrochemicals.

Originality/value

This paper uses both application quantities and allocation efficiencies of chemical fertilizer and pesticides to comprehensively evaluate the effects of SSC participations. The results will reveal the core role of SSC played in promoting sustainable development of Chinese agricultural sector dominated by small-scale farmers.
A novel high step-up non-isolated DC-DC converter using VL technique for perovskite PV cells
Authors: Zargari Afshar Deniz , Alemi Payam
Published: June 2021

Purpose

At first, the organic/inorganic and hybrid PV materials by their electrical model are described. Then the proposed converter topology, circuit analysis and various operating modes of converter according to on/off timing of switches are investigated. The current and voltage in the converter components are illustrated and the voltage gain and switching stress of proposed converter are presented. Finally, to show the effectiveness of the proposed converter, the power loss analysis is provided and the simulation is done in PSIM software. In the last section, the advantages of the proposed topology of higher efficiency by lower number of components in compare with other conventional topologies are presented.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, an improved topology of DC-DC converter based on VL technique is proposed for Perovskite Solar cells (PeSCs). The PeSCs attracted a lot of interest due to their potential in combining the advantages of both organic and inorganic components. The proposed converter by using fewer components and higher output voltage generation in compare with conventional ones could be a good candidate for PeSCs due to lower efficiency of this cells. The performance of converter is expressed in continuous conduction mode (CCM) and discontinuous conduction mode (DCM), and the boundary conditions for the proposed converter is presented.

Findings

By using VL technique, this converter is used to boost the lower output voltage levels of PeSCs for grid connection. The PV cell output voltage is increased from 24.5 V to 106 V by proposed converter topology. The step-by-step voltage increasing by charging and discharging of inductor and capacitor is used for boosting the input voltage. By comparing other converters, there is no design complexity in the proposed converter structure, and the power loss is much reduced which increases the converter efficiency. On the other hand, due to using lower number of elements of energy storage elements such as inductors and capacitors, the converter cost is also diminished. Therefore, the design topology simplicity which result simple control algorithm and lower number of components which diminish the system cost by appropriate voltage boosting capability are the main advantages of this proposed topology for new PeSCs which don’t have enough efficiency in compare with old Si PV cells.

Originality/value

In this paper, by using the lower number of components a new structure of DC-DC converter based on the VL technique is proposed. The advantages of this converter such as the simplicity, easier control and high voltage gain by lower power loss, could make this converter a good candidate for new PeSCs where the system whole efficiency will be a critical point to have the unique properties of this new materials in lower loss.
Knowledge management systems usage: application of diffusion of innovation theory
Authors: Okour Mohammad Khaleel , Chong Chin Wei , Abdel Fattah Fadi Abdel Muniem
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of technological antecedents on the usage of decision makers for the implemented knowledge management system (KMS) amongst Jordanian banks. This study extends the investigation by assessing the influence of knowledge or information quality on KMS usage. This study aims to assess whether knowledge or information quality is significantly correlated to system compatibility, relative advantage and complexity (technological antecedents).

Design/methodology/approach

The study model was developed by using Rogers’ diffusion of innovation (DOI) theory, on which seven hypotheses were developed. To examine these research hypotheses, a self-administered questionnaire was carried out with 341 decision makers who are using the KMS to perform their job-related activities. Structural equation modelling analysis of moment structures software was used for data analysis.

Findings

The findings revealed that decision makers usage of the implemented KMS’s is affected significantly by relative advantages, system complexity and knowledge quality, but not system compatibility. Moreover, the findings showed that knowledge quality is significantly correlated with DOI technological antecedents.

Practical implications

Bank managements are now in a better position to understand what kind of resources and supports are needed to achieve the maximum pay-off from KMS usage within their banks. This study has proved that it is not sufficient for Jordanian banks to focus solely on the system quality; they must also take the quality of knowledge or information (system output) as a critical factor that can affect their investments in KMS’s.

Originality/value

This study is one of the limited conducted studies to investigate the importance of KMS usage and related antecedents in the Arab world; particularly, in the context of the Jordanian banking sector. The findings of this study have contributed to the Jordanian financial sector for its vital evaluation of the KMS actual usage behaviour. Findings can be used by the Jordanian ministry of finance to improve the understanding of the factors influencing KMS usage in the financial sector. This study has contributed to reducing the gap of DOI literature amongst developed and developing countries, particularly in the Jordanian context.
A comprehensive G-Lz-ADC effectiveness evaluation model for the single communication satellite system in the context of poor information
Authors: Shao Ruirui , Fang Zhigeng , Tao Liangyan , Gao Su , You Weiqing
Published: June 2021

Purpose

During the service period of communication satellite systems, their performance is often degraded due to the depletion mechanism. In this paper, the grey system theory is applied to the multi-state system effectiveness evaluation and the grey Lz-transformation ADC (availability, dependability and capability) effectiveness evaluation model is constructed to address the characteristics of the communication satellite system such as different constituent subsystems, numerous states and the inaccuracy and insufficiency of data.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is based on the ADC effectiveness evaluation method, combined with the Lz transformation and uses the definite weighted function of the three-parameter interval grey number as a bridge to incorporate the possibility of system performance being greater than the task demand into the effectiveness solution algorithm. At the same time, using MATLAB (Matrix laboratory) to solve each state probability, the same performance level in the Lz transform is combined. Then, the system effectiveness is obtained by Python.

Findings

The results show that the G-Lz-ADC model constructed in this paper can accurately evaluate the effectiveness of static/dynamic systems and certain/uncertain system and also has better applicability in evaluating the effectiveness of the multi-state complex system.

Practical implications

The G-Lz-ADC effectiveness evaluation model constructed in this paper can effectively reduce the complexity of traditional effectiveness evaluation models by combining the same performance levels in the Lz-transform and solving the effectiveness of the system with the help of computer programming, providing a new method for the effectiveness evaluation of the complex MSS. At the same time, the weaknesses of the system can be identified, providing a theoretical basis for improving the system’s effectiveness.

Originality/value

The possibility solution method based on the definite weighted function comparing the two three-parameter interval grey numbers is constructed, which compensates for the traditional calculation of the probability based on numerical values and subjective preferences of decision-makers. Meanwhile, the effectiveness evaluation model integrates the basic theories of three-parameter interval grey number and its definite weighted function, Grey−Markov, grey universal generating function (GUGF), grey multi-state system (GMSS), etc., which is an innovative method to solve the effectiveness of a multi-state instantaneous communication satellite system.
Determinants of post COVID-19 food security policy success
Authors: Amin Fadillah , Poespito Hadi Wibisono , Zauhar Soesilo , Santoso Haryono Bambang
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze and examine the influence of the role of the central government, the role of local government, community participation, governance on the success of post-COVID-19 food security policies.

Design/methodology/approach

This study conducted a quantification study related to phenomena related to the success of post-COVID-19 food security policies. The data used are primary data with a research instrument in the form of a questionnaire. Data analysis using the measurement model Structural Equation Model (SEM). The population in this study was all people in the city of Bandung, Indonesia.

Findings

The role of the Central Government (X1), the role of the Local Government (X2) and Public Participation (X3) is very important for improving Governance (Y1) and Food Defense Policy (Y2). Thus, the conditions of the role of the Central Government (X1), the role of the Local Government (X2) and Public Participation (X3) must always be maintained. Efforts to maintain the role of the Central Government (X1) and the role of the Local Government (X2) can be done by paying attention to the organizing aspect. This indicator is known to have a very important influence in reflecting the role of the Central Government (X1) and the role of the Local Government (X2). On the other hand, efforts to increase Public Participation (X3) can be done by paying attention to the Psychological indicators (X31).

Originality/value

The government must take steps to prevent a food crisis. Apart from that, the government is also deemed necessary to map existing agricultural potentials, stabilize food prices, carry out consolidation related to agricultural land and also make regulations related to existing food problems. Apart from the role of the government, the public can also take part in maintaining food security to avoid a food crisis. Communities have the opportunity to build food sovereignty and self-sufficiency. During a pandemic like this, people tend to be more creative and can be creative to outsmart existing situations. This includes maintaining access to food. The community is expected to have the awareness to undertake at least independent planting to meet their own food needs.
Investigating training effectiveness of public and private banks employees in this digital age: an empirical study
Authors: Akther Shahin , Rahman Muhammad Sabbir
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the pre-training and post-training variables influencing employee training effectiveness in the banking industry in this era of the digital age.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopted a cross-sectional research design and a structured questionnaire to survey the participants (i.e., bank employees) (n = 702) for data collection. The data gathered from the surveyed respondents were analyzed using the Partial Least Square to Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) approach to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The research findings suggest a significant influence of pre-training (i.e., training environment, trainer quality) and post-training (i.e., trainee motivation, trainee self-efficacy, and authentic leadership practices) factors towards the bank's staff training effectiveness in this era of digital age.

Originality/value

The research is one of the pioneer attempts on training effectiveness that significantly open opportunity for financial institutions such as banks to meet the challenge of the fourth industrial revolution from a developing country perspective. The current study also contributes to the extension of the theoretical and managerial doctrine in terms of the relationship among the pre-and post-training factors to enhance training effectiveness under the scope of the financial sector's employees to manage human resources and their development in the digital age.
The impact of Danmu technological features on consumer loyalty intention toward recommendation vlogs: a perspective from social presence and immersion
Authors: Yang Tiantian , Yang Feng , Men Jinqi
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study investigates how Danmu (danmaku) technological features (DTFs) of recommendation vlogs (rec-vlogs) impact consumer experiences and decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopt the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) technique with a sample of 422 viewers of Danmu-enabled rec-vlogs to examine the proposed model.

Findings

The DTFs positively affect consumer loyalty intentions through the mediation of social presence and immersion. Also, vlogger-product congruency significantly moderates the relationship between social presence and immersion.

Originality/value

With the increasing popularity of vlogs, retailers have adopted the vlog as a new marketing channel to connect with consumers. Although a growing body of studies focuses on this phenomenon, little is known about how DTFs help to increase consumer loyalty toward using rec-vlogs as product information sources. Anchored on the stimulus–organism–response framework, this study investigates how pseudo-synchronicity, Danmu-content congruency and parallelism, three DTFs used in rec-vlogs, impact consumer experiences of social presence and immersion, eventually influence the consumers' loyalty intentions toward rec-vlogs. The authors also examine whether the effect of social presence on immersion is contingent on vlogger-product congruency. These findings have implications for both researchers and practitioners to understand the effect of DTFs in the context of rec-vlogs.
Analyzing the post-harvest supply chain enablers of vertical integration for rural employability and marketability
Authors: Priyadarshi Rahul , Routroy Srikanta , Kant Girish
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to analyze the post-harvest supply chain enablers (PHSCEs) for vertical integration to enhance rural employability, farmer profitability and rural produce marketability (i.e. market prospects) in the post-harvest supply chain (PHSC). The impact of vertical integration is also explored for various commercial produces.

Design/methodology/approach

A structural equation modeling (SEM) of PHSCEs for vertical integration was developed to enhance market prospects, rural employability and farmer profitability. The impact of business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-customer market prospects are explored in various dimensions for stakeholders such as farmers, manufacturers (processors), distributors and retailers. The fuzzy technique for order of preference by similarity to ideal solution (F-TOPSIS) was used to prioritize these PHSCEs to improve market prospects and rural employability.

Findings

The PHSCEs are clustered into three groups, namely, initiatives at the strategic frontier, initiatives at the tactical frontier and concerns for rural employability via vertical integration using exploratory factor analysis, confirmatory factor analysis and SEM to prove the null hypothesis. With F-TOPSIS results, the availability of warehousing was found to be the most crucial enabler when observing the PHSCEs from the initiatives’ perspective. The technology adaptability and availability, institute for training and research and information infrastructure and information visibility were found to be the key PHSCEs when observed from PHSC stakeholders’ perspectives.

Research limitations/implications

The implementation of this study will improve the rural produce marketability, rural employability, B2B marketing (i.e. effective distribution) and subsequent value chains with the practice of vertical integration for fresh produce at the rural level.

Practical implications

The outcomes of this study have a key role in developing the rural regions and improving rural livelihoods via value addition. The awareness of commercial cultivation and value addition in rural areas needs to be improved. This will help farmers to earn better revenues with improved market prospects in comparison to the revenues obtained from the cultivation of staple/conventional crops.

Originality/value

In an era of cold chains and food processing, this study aims to disseminate awareness about value addition for commercial and fresh produces at the rural level. The implication of this study will improve rural produce marketability, rural employability and farmer profitability at the rural level with the level of vertical integration.
Relational key account management: insights from the Middle Eastern context
Authors: Badawi Nada Saleh , Battor Moustafa , Badghish Saeed
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore relational aspects of key account management (KAM) in terms of social capital and relationship quality. The second objective was to identify the main dimensions that shape social capital and relationship quality within the KAM context. Finally, the third objective was to explore how relational KAM is practiced in the Middle Eastern context.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a qualitative methodology and a multiple case design. Semi-structured interviews were carried out with a sample of senior executives from large Saudi firms.

Findings

The results highlight the importance of relationship quality and social capital to KAM implementation. A multiple case study was used to build a relational framework for KAM in the Middle Eastern context.

Practical implications

Three strategies were identified for use within the context of KAM in the Saudi market. The first strategy consisted of a means of attracting potential customers. The second strategy involved communication, aimed at maintaining frequent contact with key accounts. Finally, the third strategy was concentrated in maintenance to help sustain the relationship with key accounts.

Originality/value

This study extends understanding and the application of KAM to the Middle Eastern context, contributing to social capital, relationship quality and the KAM literature.
Public relations in the age of data: corporate perspectives on social media analytics (SMA)
Authors: Fitzpatrick Kathy R. , Weissman Paula L.
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study was to understand how public relations leaders view and use social media analytics (SMA) and the impact of SMA on the public relations function.

Design/methodology/approach

The research involved in-depth interviews with chief communication officers (CCOs) from leading multinational corporate brands.

Findings

The findings revealed that although CCOs perceive social media analytics as strategically important to the advancement of public relations, the use of social media data is slowed by challenges associated with building SMA capacity.

Theoretical and practical implications

– The research extends public relations theory on public relations as a strategic management function and provides practical insights for building SMA capabilities.

Originality/value

The study is among the first to provide empirical evidence of how companies are using social media analytics to enhance public relations efforts.
The effect of the imposition of a public reprimand on the stock price of companies in Malaysia
Authors: Zainudin Emie Famieza , Hashim Hafiza Aishah , Ismail Shahnaz
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the effect of the imposition of public reprimands on the underlying stock prices of companies in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Data on 148 companies that received public reprimands during the period from 2007 to 2013 were collected from the Bursa Malaysia website to analyse the market reactions to the imposition of public reprimands.

Findings

Based on a market model of abnormal returns, the empirical result showed that the imposition of a public reprimand had a negative impact on a company’s stock price. Moreover, when a market model of average abnormal returns (AAR) was used, the result indicated that companies that had received a public reprimand had a negative AAR value.

Research limitations/implications

The findings from this study have implications for shareholders in making their investment decisions because they can switch their investments to other companies and markets after a company in which they are interested or have made an investment has received a public reprimand.

Originality/value

There is limited research on the imposition of public reprimands and the effect that it has on companies in developing countries. Hence, this study contributes to research in this area by providing evidence on the effect of public reprimand on stock price reactions in the context of a developing country, namely, Malaysia.
Islamic influence on customer satisfaction: evidence from Takaful and conventional insurance industry
Authors: Akhter Waheed , Jamil Hassan , Fam Kim-Shyan
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to identify Islamic influence on customer satisfaction in Pakistan Takaful and conventional insurance industry. Specifically, it analyses the vital role of Shari’ah perception in achieving higher customer satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

The data from 400 customers of both the family Takāful and life insurance (200 each) were collected. Further, the regression-based bootstrapping approach was applied through process macro developed by Hayes (2013).

Findings

The results indicate that a higher Shari’ah perception positively affects the customer satisfaction in the Takaful industry with improved service and relationship quality; whereas, it negatively affects customer satisfaction in case of the conventional insurance. Further, it has been found that customer satisfaction partially mediates the customer switching intentions in both the Takaful and conventional insurance industry in the presence of service quality and relationship quality.

Practical implications

This research will enable the practitioners to understand the factors that affect customer satisfaction in Pakistan. It has the essential policy and managerial implications for the growth of the Takaful and conventional insurance industry.

Originality/value

This is one of the pioneer studies investigating the impact of Islamic influence (specifically Shari’ah perception) on customer satisfaction in both the Takaful and conventional insurance industry in Pakistan.
Assessment of CMMI level of manufacturing industry using fuzzy logic approach: a case study
Authors: Thomas Tharun , P.G. Saleeshya , M. Suresh
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a CMMI model for the manufacturing industry and to find an appropriate method to assess the CMMI level. The CMMI level indicates how well the processes are planned, performed, measured and controlled, thus revealing the performance level of an organization.

Design/methodology/approach

Among the various process areas of CMMI, “organizational process focus” (OPF) is selected for the study. The CMMI model for the process area OPF is designed based on the CMMI enablers, criteria and attributes. Based on this multilevel model, a case study approach is adopted and fuzzy logic is used to measure the CMMI level of an organization. The fuzzy performance importance index (FPII) and the ranking score are used to further analyze the attributes.

Findings

The proposed model has been successfully used to measure the CMMI level of the manufacturing industry in south India. The triangular fuzzy number of the fuzzy CMMI measure index (FCMI) is obtained as (2.077, 3.534, 5.000). The transformation of FCMI back into linguistic terms discloses the current CMMI level of the industry as “Capability Maturity Level 2” (CML 2).

Originality/value

The authors tested the suitability of an inter-disciplinary approach known as CMMI for the process appraisal in the manufacturing sector. The investigation sets forth a unique framework to quantify the performance of practices followed in a manufacturing organization and thereby help the industry to realize the present strength and weakness in terms of process assets.
Money laundering through cryptocurrencies - analysis of the phenomenon and appropriate prevention measures
Authors: Wronka Christoph
Published: June 2021

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to assess the relevance of cryptocurrencies with regard to the money laundering risk on the market and to present widespread money laundering techniques and recognizable patterns of abuse. In addition, this paper aims to find an answer to the question to what extent the measures of the fifth EU Anti-Money Laundering Directive (AMLD) as well as other appropriate preventive measures are sufficient to reduce the money laundering risk in the area of virtual currencies (VC).

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, the analysis requires a consideration of the theoretical foundations of money laundering methods, as well as a presentation of the technical foundations of cryptocurrencies and their ecosystem. Secondly, it is discussed to what extent VC are suitable for money laundering, which characteristics enable them to launder money and which new money laundering techniques result from this. In addition, a comparison of different money laundering risk classification is done in relation to VC from the perspective of different actors in the financial market.

Findings

Owing to their simple electronic storage and transferability, crypto assets pose a concrete risk of money laundering. Their inclusion in the fifth AMLD was therefore a necessary step by the European legislator. However, the question arises to whether the directive and the further preventive measures presented in this paper sufficiently fulfil the objective of reducing the money laundering risk in relation to VC. One positive aspect is the inclusion of the crypto custody business as a financial service in the German Banking Act. According to the definition in Section 1 (1a) sentence 2 no. 6, the offering of wallets is subject to authorization and the offering party becomes an obligated party within the meaning of the Germany Money Laundering Act. From a supervisory point of view, the new licensing requirement is very much welcomed, as the custody of private cryptographic keys entails considerable risks. However, non-custodian wallet providers who do not store the private keys of their users, are not covered. A closer analysis of the amending directive to the fourth EU AMLD reveals that other relevant players in the crypto market, such as mixer and tumbler services, are also not covered.

Originality/value

It is quite clear that cryptocurrencies and the blockchain technology will continue to accompany one in the coming years. Further credit institutions arising in the market exposed to the described risks will be seen. The paper will therefore present and evaluate possible risk reduction/options for anti-money laundering for new and existing financial institutions.
A qualitative study exploring challenges in money laundering investigations
Authors: Shah Syed Mahmood Ali
Published: June 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the behavior of investigating officers in performance of their official duties of conducting inquiries and investigations of money laundering cases and their views about real problems and issues encountered during such investigations.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 15 interviews were conducted with Inland Revenue Service (IRS) investigating officers and money laundering experts, whose responses were subjected to qualitative content analysis. Observation method was also used by the researcher during the whole process of investigation in multiple cases of money laundering investigations. Rationale for conducting qualitative study is to acquire original information from respondents which may not have been possible through a closed-ended questionnaire.

Findings

Findings of the study reveal that change in the behavior of investigating officers may result in better performance by way of conducting money laundering investigations in an effective and efficient manner. And the behavior of investigating officers may be changed by addressing the problems and issues encountered by them while at work and conducting anti money laundering investigations, better performance of investigating officers may result in better performance of investigating agency which may portray better image of the government in combating against terrorism financing and money laundering.

Research limitations/implications

Findings of the study are limited to the perspectives of 15 interviewees. For this reason, it is probable that a study with a larger sample conducted in other offices of IRS Intelligence as well as other investigating agencies could have provided different or more concrete results.

Practical implications

Evidently, the addressal of such issues may invariably enhance the effective enforcement of money laundering activities by way of improving the performance of investigating officers in performance of their duties relating to money laundering investigations. It also provides legislators and money laundering investigating agencies with valuable insight into the whole process of money laundering investigations and challenges encountered by investigating officers. By enhanced understanding the specific problems of investigations, the enabling authorities should be able to more effectively combat both money laundering and terrorism financing.

Originality/value

This is the first study, to the best of the author’s knowledge, which tries to explain the behavior of investigating officer toward their work and their perceived understanding of the problems being faced while conducting investigations in money laundering.
Development of a remaining useful life (RUL) model for reinforced concrete beams subjected to high-cycle fatigue
Authors: Wannenburg Willem , Inglis Helen M. , Wannenburg Johann , Roth Chris
Published: June 2021

Purpose

Failure of a critical reinforced concrete beam due to fatigue can have severe safety and production consequences, and preventative repair/replacement of such a beam is expensive. It would therefore be beneficial if repair/replacement can be done based on an accurately and conservatively predicted remaining useful life (RUL). The purpose of this paper is to develop such a model.

Design/methodology/approach

Condition-based maintenance is a maintenance approach that uses empirical/analytical models and a measurable condition to predict remaining useful life. The P-F curve (condition-life) is a useful tool that can aid in making these decisions. A model to create a P-F curve is developed using rebar fatigue test results (in the form of an S–N curve) and the Palmgren-Miner law of damage accumulation. A Monte Carlo simulation with statistical distributions is employed to provide confidence levels of RUL outputs.

Findings

An example of how the model can successfully be used in practice is shown in this paper, and a sensitivity study is performed leading to conclusions being drawn with regard to damage tolerant design considerations.

Originality/value

If a critical reinforced concrete beam fails due to fatigue can have serious consequences. This paper develops a model to help base repair/replacement decisions based on accurately and conservatively predicted RUL. Financial and safety benefits would be gained if this model would be used in practice.