bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adapted protocol for Saccharibacteria co-cultivation: two new members join the club of Candidate Phyla radiation
Authors: Ibrahim Ahmad , Maatouk Mohamad , Rajaonison Andriamiharimamy , Zgheib Rita , Haddad Gabriel , Bou-Khalil Jacques , Raoult Didier , Bittar Fadi
Published: July 2021

The growing application of metagenomics to different ecological and microbiome niches in recent years has enhanced our knowledge of global microbial biodiversity. Among these abundant and widespread microbes, Candidate Phyla Radiation or CPR have been recognised as representing a large proportion of the microbial kingdom (> 26%). CPR are characterised by their obligate symbiotic or exo-parasitic activity with other microbial hosts, mainly bacteria. Currently, isolating CPR is still considered challenging for microbiologists. The idea of this study was to develop an adapted protocol for the co-culture of CPR with a suitable bacterial host. Based on various sputa, we tried to purify CPR (Saccharibacteria members) and to cultivate them with pure hosts. This protocol was monitored by real-time PCR quantification using a specific system for Saccharibacteria designed in this study, as well as by electron microscopy and sequencing. We succeeded in co-culturing and sequencing a complete genome of two new Saccharibacteria species: Candidatus Minimicrobia naudis and Candidatus Minimicrobia vallesae. In addition, we noticed a decrease in the Ct number of Saccharibacteria, and a significant multiplication through their physical association with Schaalia odontolytica strains in the enriched medium that we developed. This work may help bridge gaps in the genomic database by providing new CPR members and, in the future, their currently unknown characteristics may be revealed.

IMPORTANCE

In this study, the first real-time PCR system has been developed. This technique is able to quantify specifically Saccharibacteria members in any sample of interest in order to investigate their prevalence. In addition, another easy, specific and sensitive protocol has been developed to maintain the viability of Saccharibacteria cells in an enriched medium with their bacterial host. The use of this protocol subsequently facilitates studying the phenotypic characteristics of CPR and their physical interactions with bacterial species, as well as the sequencing of new genomes to improve the current database.
The dual nature of bacteriophage: growth-dependent predation and generalised transduction of antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Leclerc Quentin J , Wildfire Jacob , Gupta Arya , Lindsay Jodi A , Knight Gwenan M
Published: July 2021

Bacteriophage (“phage”) are both predators and evolutionary drivers for bacteria, notably contributing to the spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) genes by generalised transduction. Our current understanding of the dual nature of this relationship is limited. We used an interdisciplinary approach to quantify how these interacting dynamics can lead to the evolution of multi-drug resistant bacteria. We co-cultured two strains of Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus, each harbouring a different antibiotic resistance gene, with 80α generalized transducing phage. After a growth phase of 8h, bacteria and phage surprisingly coexisted at a stable equilibrium in our culture, the level of which was dependent on the starting concentration of phage. We detected double-resistant bacteria as early as 7h, indicating that transduction of AMR genes had occurred. We developed multiple mathematical models of the bacteria and phage relationship, and found that phage-bacteria dynamics were best captured by a model in which the phage burst size decreases as the bacteria population reaches stationary phase, and where phage predation is frequency-dependent. We estimated that one in every 108new phage generated was a transducing phage carrying an AMR gene, and that double-resistant bacteria were always predominantly generated by transduction rather than by growth. Our results suggest a shift in how we understand and model phage-bacteria dynamics. Although rates of generalised transduction could be interpreted as too rare to be significant, they are sufficient to consistently lead to the evolution of multi-drug resistant bacteria. Currently, the potential of phage to contribute to the growing burden of AMR is likely underestimated.
Refining the domain architecture model of the replication origin firing factor Treslin/TICRR
Authors: Ferreira Pedro , Sanchez-Pulido Luis , Marko Anika , Ponting Chris P , Boos Dominik
Published: July 2021

Faithful genome duplication requires appropriately controlled replication origin firing. The metazoan Treslin/TICRR origin firing factor and its yeast orthologue Sld3 are regulation hubs of origin firing. They share the Sld3-Treslin domain (STD) and the adjacent TopBP1/Dpb11 interaction domain (TDIN). We report a revised domain architecture model of Treslin/TICRR. Complementary protein sequence analyses uncovered Ku70-homologous β-barrel folds in the Treslin/TICRR middle domain (M domain) and in Sld3. Thus, the Sld3-homologous Treslin/TICRR core comprises its three central domains, M domain, STD and TDIN. This Sld3-core is flanked by non-conserved terminal domains, the CIT (conserved in Treslins) and the C-terminus. We also identified Ku70-like β-barrels in MTBP and Sld7. Our binding experiments showed that the Treslin β-barrel mediates interaction with the MTBP β-barrel, reminiscent of the homotypic Ku70-Ku80 dimerization. This binding mode is conserved in the Sld3-Sld7 dimer. We used Treslin/TICRR domain mutants to show that all Sld3-core domains and the non-conserved terminal domains fulfil important functions during origin firing in human cells. Thus, metazoa-specific and widely conserved molecular processes cooperate during origin firing in metazoa.
Orfamide-A-mediated bacterial-algal interactions involve specific Ca2+ signalling pathways
Authors: Hou Yu , Bando Yuko , Flores David Carrasco , Hotter Vivien , Schiweck Bastian , Arndt Hans-Dieter , Mittag Maria
Published: July 2021

The antagonistic bacterium Pseudomonas protegens secretes the cyclic lipopeptide orfamide A, which triggers a Ca2+ signal, causing the deflagellation of the green microalga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii. By investigating targeted synthetic orfamide A variants and inhibitors, we found that at least two Ca2+-signalling pathways and TRP channels are involved in this response.
Bioinspired Dual-Functional Solid Lipid Nanoformulations for Targeted Drug Delivery and Sustained Release for Enhancement of Potency of Albendazole, an Antihelminthic Drug
Authors: Sharma Sunidhi , Goel Vanshita , Kaur Pawandeep , Gadhave Kundlik , Garg Neha , Singla Lachhman Das , Choudhury Diptiman
Published: July 2021

Targeted delivery has not been achieved for anthelmintic treatment, resulting in the requirement of excess drugs dose leading to side effects and therapeutic resistance. Gastrointestinal helminths ingest lipid droplets from digestive fluid for energy production, development, and defense. Worm’s habit inspired us to develop biocompatible, oral administrable, bee-wax derived solid lipid nanoparticles (SLN) with excellent drug (albendazole) loading efficiency of 83.3 ± 6.5 mg/g and sustained-release properties (86.4 ± 3.9 % of drug released within 24 h). Rhodamine B-loaded SLN showed time-dependent release and distribution of dye in vivo in Haemonchous contortus. The intestinal sustained-release property was shown by the particles that caused enhancement of albendazole potency for up to 50 folds. Therefore, this formulation has immense potential as an anthelminthic drug delivery vehicle that will not only be able to reduce the dose but will also reduce the drug-induced side effects by enhancing the bioavailability of the drug.

Highlights

Albendazole-loaded Solid Lipid Nanoparticles (SLN-A) were formulated using Beeswax as stating material showing high drug loading capacity of 83 mg/g with sustained-release properties and 84 ± 3 % of drug release within 24 h.

SLN-A particles showed 50 fold enhancement of Albendazole activity against Haemonchous contortus worm.

Rhodamine B-loaded SLN particles showed the specific uptake and in-vivo sustained release of dye in the worm.
Characterization of glucosyltransferase and glucuronosyltransferase family members reveals how major flavone glycoside accumulate in the root of Scutellaria baicalensis
Authors: Pei Tianlin , Li Tian , Li Xiaoqiang , Yin Yijia , Cui Mengying , Fang Yumin , Liu Jie , Kong Yu , Xu Ping , Zhao Qing
Published: July 2021

Flavonoid glycosides extracted from roots of Scutellaria baicalensis exhibit strong pharmaceutical effect in antitumor, antioxidative, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral activity. UDP glycosyltransferase family members are responsible for the transfer of a glycosyl moiety from UDP sugars to a wide range of acceptor flavonoids. Here, we report the phylogenetic analysis, tissue-specific expression and biochemical characterization of 10 glucosyltrasferases (SbUGTs) and 6 glucuronosyltransferases (SbUGATs) based on the recently released genome of S. baicalensis. These results reveal that the high expression level and affinity to substrate of SbUGAT4 make baicalin become the richest flavonoid glycoside in the root of S. baicalensis.
A ubiquitously expressed UDP-glucosyltransferase, UGT74J1, controls basal salicylic acid levels in rice
Authors: Tezuka Daisuke , Matsuura Hideyuki , Saburi Wataru , Mori Haruhide , Imai Ryozo
Published: July 2021

Salicylic acid (SA) is a phytohormone that regulates a variety of physiological and developmental processes, including disease resistance. SA is a key signaling component in the immune response of many plant species. However, the mechanism underlying SA-mediated immunity is obscure in rice (Oryza sativa). Prior analysis revealed a correlation between basal SA level and blast resistance in a range of rice varieties. This suggested that resistance might be improved by increasing basal SA level. Here, we identified a novel UDP-glucosyltransferase gene, UGT74J1, which is expressed ubiquitously throughout plant development. Mutants of UGT74J1 generated by genome editing accumulated high levels of SA under non-stressed conditions, indicating that UGT74J1 is a key enzyme for SA homeostasis in rice. Microarray analysis revealed that the ugt74j1 mutants constitutively overexpressed a set of pathogenesis-related (PR) genes. An inoculation assay demonstrated that these mutants had increased resistance against rice blast, but they also exhibited stunted growth phenotypes. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a rice mutant displaying SA overaccumulation.
PTEN mutant NSCLC require ATM to suppress pro-apoptotic signalling and evade radiotherapy
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Hartmann Oliver , Reissland Michaela , Prieto-Garcia Cristian , Klann Kevin , Schülein-Völk Christina , Polat Bülent , Gerhard-Hartmann Elena , Rosenfeldt Mathias , Münch Christian , Flentje Michael , Diefenbacher Markus E.
Published: July 2021

Background

Despite advances in treatment of patients with non-small cell lung cancer, carriers of certain genetic alterations are prone to failure. One such factor frequently mutated, is the tumor suppressor PTEN. These tumors are supposed to be more resistant to radiation, chemo- and immunotherapy.

Methods

Using CRISPR genome editing, we deleted PTEN in a human tracheal stem cell-like cell line as well generated primary murine NSCLC, proficient or deficient forPten,in vivo. These models were used to verify the impact of PTEN lossin vitroandin vivoby immunohistochemical staining, western blot and RNA-Sequencing. Radiation sensitivity was assessed by colony formation and growth assays. To elucidate putative treatment options, identified via the molecular characterisation, PTEN pro- and deficient cells were treated with PI3K/mTOR/DNA-PK-inhibitor PI-103 or the ATM-inhibitors KU-60019 und AZD 1390. Changes in radiation sensitivity were assessed by colony-formation assay, FACS, western-blot, phospho-proteomic mass spectrometry andex vivolung slice cultures.

Results

We demonstrate that loss of PTEN led to altered expression of transcriptional programs which directly regulate therapy resistance, resulting in establishment of radiation resistance. While PTEN-deficient tumor cells were not dependent on DNA-PK for IR resistance nor activated ATR during IR, they showed a significant dependence for the DNA damage kinase ATM. Pharmacologic inhibition of ATM, via KU-60019 and AZD1390 at non-toxic doses, restored and even synergized with IR in PTEN-deficient human and murine NSCLC cells as well in a multicellular organotypicex vivotumor model.

Conclusion

PTEN tumors are addicted to ATM to detect and repair radiation induced DNA damage. This creates an exploitable bottleneck. At leastin celluloandex vivowe show that low concentration of ATM inhibitor is able to synergise with IR to treat PTEN-deficient tumors in genetically well-defined IR resistant lung cancer models.
The transcription factor Zeb2 drives formation of age-associated B cells
Authors: Dai Dai , Gu Shuangshuang , Han Xiaxia , Ding Huihua , Jiang Yang , Zhang Xiaoou , Yao Chao , Hong Soonmin , Zhang Jinsong , Shen Yiwei , Hou Guojun , Qu Bo , Zhou Haibo , Qin Yuting , He Yuke , Ma Jianyang , Yin Zhihua , Ye Zhizhong , Qian Jie , Jiang Qian , Wu Lihua , Guo Qiang , Chen Sheng , Huang Chuanxin , Kottyan Leah C. , Weirauch Matthew T. , Vinuesa Carola G. , Shen Nan
Published: July 2021

Age-associated B-cells (ABCs) accumulate during infection, aging and autoimmunity, contributing to lupus pathogenesis. Here, we screen for transcription factors driving ABC formation and find Zeb2 is required for human and mouse ABC differentiation in-vitro. ABCs are reduced in ZEB2 haploinsufficient individuals and in mice lacking Zeb2 in B-cells. In mice with TLR7-driven lupus, Zeb2 is essential for ABC formation and autoimmune pathology. Zeb2 binds to the +20kb intronic enhancer of Mef2b, repressing Mef2b-mediated germinal center B-cell differentiation and promoting ABC formation. Zeb2 also targets genes important for ABC specification and function includingItgax. Zeb2-driven ABC differentiation requires Jak-Stat signaling, and treatment with the Jak1/3 inhibitor tofacitinib reduces ABC accumulation in autoimmune mice and patients. Zeb2 thus emerges as a driver of B-cell autoimmunity.

One-Sentence Summary

Zeb2 is essential for Age-associated B cells differentiation and function.
Self-organized morphogenesis of a human neural tubein vitroby geometric constraints
Authors: Karzbrun Eyal , Khankhel Aimal H. , Megale Heitor C. , Glasauer Stella M. K. , Wyle Yofiel , Britton George , Warmflash Aryeh , Kosik Kenneth S. , Siggia Eric D. , Shraiman Boris I. , Streichan Sebastian J.
Published: July 2021

Understanding how human embryos develop their shape is a fundamental question in physics of life with strong medical implications. However, it is challenging to study the dynamics of organ formation in humans. Animals differ from humans in key aspects, and in particular in the development of the nervous system. Conventional organoids are quantitatively unreproducible and exhibit highly variable morphology. Here we present a morphologically reproducible and scalable approach for studying human organogenesis in a dish, which is compatible with live imaging. We achieve this by precisely controlling cell fate pattern formation in 2D stem cell sheets, while allowing for self-organization of tissue shape in 3D. Upon triggering neural pattern formation, the initially flat stem cell sheet undergoes folding morphogenesis and self-organizes into a millimeter long anatomically accurate model of the neural tube, covered by epidermis. We find that neural and epidermal human tissues are necessary and sufficient for folding morphogenesis in the absence of mesoderm activity. Furthermore, we find that molecular inhibition of tissue contractility leads to defects similar to neural tube closure defects, consistent within vivostudies. Finally, we discover that neural tube shape, including the number and location of hinge points, depends on neural tissue size. This suggests that neural tube morphology along the anterior posterior axis depends on neural plate geometry in addition to molecular gradients. Our approach provides a new path to study human organ morphogenesis in health and disease.
The adverse impact of consecutive COVID-19 waves on mental health
Authors: Novotný Jan Sebastian , Gonzalez-Rivas Juan Pablo , Kunzová Šárka , Skladaná Mária , Pospíšilová Anna , Polcrová Anna , Vassilaki Maria , Medina-Inojosa Jose Ramon , Lopez-Jimenez Francisco , Geda Yonas Endale , Stokin Gorazd Bernard
Published: July 2021

Background

Although several studies documented the impact of COVID-19 on mental health, the long-term effects of COVID-19 on mental health remain unclear.

Aims

To examine longitudinal changes in mental health prior to and during the consecutive COVID-19 waves in a well-established probability sample.

Method

An online survey was completed by the participants of the COVID-19 add-on study at 4 timepoints (N1=1823, N2=788, N3=532, N4=383): pre-COVID period (2014/2015), 1stCOVID-19 wave (April-May, 2020), 2ndCOVID-19 wave (August-October, 2020) and 3rdCOVID-19 wave (March-April, 2021). Data were collected via a set of validated instruments and analysed using latent growth models.

Results

During the pandemic, we observed a significant increase in stress levels (slope=1.127, P<0.001) and depressive symptoms (slope=1.177, P<0.001). The rate of increase in stress levels (cov=2.167, P=0.002), but not in depressive symptoms (cov=0.558, P=0.10), was associated with the pre-pandemic mental health status of the participants. Further analysis revealed two opposing clusters of factors that influenced mental health: loneliness and COVID-19 showed a negative effect on emotionality, while higher resilience acted protectively. A greater increase in stress was observed in women and younger participants.

Conclusions

The surge in stress levels and depressive symptoms persisted across all three consecutive COVID-19 waves. This surge is attributable to the effect of several risk factors including the status of mental health prior to the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings have implications for strategies promoting resilience and addressing loneliness to mitigate the mental health impact of COVID-19 pandemic.
New ways of spreading food safety online: the role of food bloggers in risk communication
Authors: Brombin Alice , Mascarello Giulia , Pinto Anna , Crovato Stefania , Ricaldi Guido , Giaretta Mosè , Ravarotto Licia
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Blogs have become a widespread means for the exchange of information, where topics regarding food and nutrition feature with increasing prominence. In the sphere of online risk communication, food bloggers are relevant actors because they pass on practical information about food preparation and crucial phases of food safety (preservation, handling and cooking of food). Moreover, they have the ability to reach user networks in a rapid and capillary manner. This paper focusses on the figure of the food blogger, the context in which he/she acts and his/her perceptions and type of communication of food safety issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Quantitative and qualitative data were collected using an online survey and an online training programme was implemented to actively engage food bloggers in the creation of food risk communication.

Findings

This study showed that a common reason for the creation of a food blog is the love for food and the practice of caring for themselves and others through food. Food bloggers feel responsible for taking care of their users by providing accurate information related to health and safety. Communication via blogs is based on the shared experiences of users, thereby representing a type of knowledge that is closer to direct practice. Interacting with these new actors in the field of food is important for institutions traditionally committed to promoting public health and food safety.

Originality/value

The research stands out for its innovative purpose of using the network of food blogs as a communication tool that overcomes the traditional linear communication model (top-down) to experiment with a new participatory model and spread to Internet users good practices related to food management.
Choosing to stop consuming meat for environmental reasons: exploring the influence of gender and social status variables in Chile
Authors: Giacoman Claudia , Ayala Arancibia Pamela , Alfaro Juan
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Global meat consumption has increased rapidly, which is of concern, given its contribution to environmental destruction. Within this framework, this article aims to analyse the social determinants in relation to stopping red meat consumption for environmental reasons in Chile, with a focus on gender and social status.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data from a representative national survey, we estimated six logistic regression models to analyse the social determinants that reduce red meat consumption in Chile.

Findings

The results show that social stratification variables (gender, social class, household income and education) are closely linked with choosing to stop eating red meat for environmental reasons. A possible interpretation of these results is the ambiguous status of red meat in contemporary Chilean society and its symbolic link with masculinity.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis may be complemented by future research that distinguishes the environmental aspects, which encourage individuals to stop eating red meat. In addition, asking about meat consumption in an environmental survey, may generate social desirability.

Originality/value

The results contribute to understanding which social factors help stop meat consumption within a strong carnism culture. This is relevant since South America is well known for high meat consumption, and few studies have explored the issue of consumption in these countries.
Cannabis and web marketing strategies-A study of Colorado cannabis vendors
Authors: Forzley Samer
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the level of adoption of digital marketing by cannabis vendors in the state of Colorado.

Design/methodology/approach

The study surveyed a random sample of 30 cannabis vendors in the state of Colorado. The analysis of the vendors’ use of digital marketing methods was conducted using a rubric based on a modified 7C Framework.

Findings

In the state of Colorado, the cannabis industry is nascent and has made an initial investment in digital marketing. While most companies had deployed a website, these websites featured basic elements of digital marketing. Though limited, the industry has made initial attempts to engage customers in a socially responsible manner. The industry would also benefit from better age verification, educational programs and profit sharing.

Originality/value

The study furthers the application of 7C Framework used in evaluating e-commerce sites for cannabis marketing.
Behavioural intention to purchase organic food: Bangladeshi consumers' perspective
Authors: Kabir Mohammad Rokibul , Islam Saima
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This research aims to assess the consumers' intention to purchase organic foods for balanced physical and mental growth. It examines the decision-making process in buying organic products built on the extended Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB). This study designed a model to show how Bangladeshi consumers wish to purchase organic food.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected by means of a formal questionnaire from shoppers in different markets who buy organic and non-organic foods. Statistical analysis is done by applying partial least square-structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

Findings refer that among the four antecedents called social norms (SN), personal attitude (ATT), perceived behaviour control (PBC) and health consciousness (HC), three (ATT, PBC and HC) have a significant influence on the intention to consume organic food in Bangladesh. The only cognitive variable called social norm (SN) has no statistically significant impact though it positively relates to the behavioural intention to purchase organic food.

Research limitations/implications

The fitted model did not consider any moderating or mediating variable though there might be such effects regarding organic food purchase and consumption. The study includes a major portion of the respondents from less than Tk. 20,000 monthly income group, which is a price-sensitive group from Bangladesh perspective. Hence, this price sensitivity might have a slight influence on the results of the study.

Practical implications

This study includes four variables as the predictors to describe consumers' intention to purchase organic food products in Bangladesh. Among the predictors, health consciousness or awareness is found to be most powerful. Though consciousness is the key, the awareness of Bangladeshi citizen regarding organic food is lower than in other parts of the world. Hence, the research model directs the policymakers to increase awareness through different social campaigns.

Social implications

Under Vision 2040 of promoting sustainable development, the government of Bangladesh is trying to increase organic food consumption. Production and consumption of organic food will positively impact society since organic fertilizers are environmentally friendly and do not harm society. This research promotes a strategy formulation to ensure the consumption of organic foods for a positive social impact.

Originality/value

This study is a unique research to concentrate on the importance and factors influencing the consumption of organic foods in Bangladesh, a recently graduated developing country. Furthermore, it extended the Theory of Planned Behaviour (TPB) and proposed a new conceptual framework.
Linking organizational members' social-related use of enterprise social media (ESM) to their fashion behaviors: the social learning and stimulus-organism-response theories
Authors: Olfat Mohammad , Ahmadi Sadra , Shokouhyar Sajjad , Bazeli Sepideh
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study through the lens of social learning theory and using the stimulus-organism-response (S-O-R) framework aims to show that employees' social-related use of enterprise social media (ESM) can positively affect their intentions to purchase the fashion products used by their coworkers by mediating role of their perceptions toward their coworkers' credibility in fashion (i.e. physical attractiveness, reliability in communications and experience in fashion).

Design/methodology/approach

To evaluate the validity of the measurement and structural models, 361 employees who were able to take advantage of ESM with social-related motivations were surveyed within seven Iranian organizations. The collected data were analyzed using the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM).

Findings

The results of the study confirmed that employees' social-related use of ESM positively affects their perceptions toward their coworkers' credibility in three dimensions of physical attractiveness, reliability in communication (trustworthiness) and fashion experience (expertise). Employees' perceptions toward their coworkers' credibility in three dimensions of physical attractiveness, reliability in communications and fashion experience positively affect their intentions to purchase the fashion products used by their coworkers.

Practical implications

This study shows that ESM technology can shape a trusted online community of practice in which employees can share the same interests and learn about different types of [fashion] products and services from each other. Thus, ESM can be considered an online instrument for marketing purposes with which organizations can obtain revenue from other organizations by letting them advertise their products on ESM.

Originality/value

The main theoretical implication of this study is to extend the use of two advanced theories in the workplace, especially regarding employees' social-related use of ESM. In fact, this study through the lens of social learning theory and based on the S-O-R model shows that employees' social-related use of ESM can be considered as a stimulus in the workplace, influencing employees' perceptions toward different objects (e.g. their coworkers' credibility), and resulting in several changes in their behaviors. This is among a few studies addressing marketing outcomes of ESM in the employees' communities.
Six ways to leave a lover: how sensemaking of the purpose of internal social media changes over time in a public sector organization
Authors: Madsen Vibeke Thøis , Schmeltz Line
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Internal social media (ISM) make it possible for all employees to participate in knowledge sharing and decision-making and to voice their opinions. However, several studies have found that organizations are far from unlocking the full potential of ISM. This paper seeks to explore and explain this gap further by adopting a sensemaking lens to managers' understanding of a social intranet in a public sector organization.

Design/methodology/approach

A longitudinal case study of the process of introducing ISM was conducted in a Danish municipality. Before, during and after the launch of the intranet, interviews with department heads and communication managers in the six different municipal departments were carried out to explore how they made sense of the purpose of ISM.

Findings

Findings indicate that during the process of introducing and implementing ISM, department heads' and managers' narratives about the purpose of the intranet changed from being a matter of involving, engaging and hearing the voices of the employees to being an effective administrative tool and a channel for management to reach all employees.

Originality/value

Rather than the traditional focus on whether ISM fail or succeed, the paper offers new understandings of how managers' sensemaking of ISM changes over time, leading to changes in the actual usage of and communication on ISM.
Economic policy uncertainty, value of cash and financial crisis
Authors: Tran Quoc Trung
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper investigates the effect of economic policy uncertainty on value of cash before and after the global financial crisis.

Design/methodology/approach

We investigate the relationship between economic policy uncertainty and value of excess cash based on the valuation model of Fama and French (1998). Baker et al. (2016) news-based index (BBD index) is employed to calculate measures of economic policy uncertainty. Our research sample includes 103,474 observations from 11,000 firms across 19 countries over the period 2004–2016.

Findings

We find that economic policy uncertainty is negatively “positively” related to value of cash in the pre-crisis “post-crisis” period. Moreover, we also document that the positive effect of economic policy uncertainty in the post-crisis period is stronger in financially constrained firms.

Originality/value

While prior studies find a relationship between economic policy uncertainty and cash levels or the effect of firm-level uncertainty on value of cash, this paper shows how economic policy uncertainty as an institutional environment factor affects value of cash. Moreover, it documents that economic policy uncertainty has opposite effects on value of cash before and after the global financial crisis.
Different firm responses to the COVID-19 pandemic shocks: machine-learning evidence on the Vietnamese labor market
Authors: Le Lam Hoang Viet , Huynh Toan Luu Duc , Weber Bryan S. , Nguyen Bao Khac Quoc
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to identify the disproportionate impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on labor markets.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a large-scale survey on 16,000 firms from 82 industries in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and analyze the data set by using different machine-learning methods.

Findings

First, job loss and reduction in state-owned enterprises have been significantly larger than in other types of organizations. Second, employees of foreign direct investment enterprises suffer a significantly lower labor income than those of other groups. Third, the adverse effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the labor market are heterogeneous across industries and geographies. Finally, firms with high revenue in 2019 are more likely to adopt preventive measures, including the reduction of labor forces. The authors also find a significant correlation between firms' revenue and labor reduction as traditional econometrics and machine-learning techniques suggest.

Originality/value

This study has two main policy implications. First, although government support through taxes has been provided, the authors highlight evidence that there may be some additional benefit from targeting firms that have characteristics associated with layoffs or other negative labor responses. Second, the authors provide information that shows which firm characteristics are associated with particular labor market responses such as layoffs, which may help target stimulus packages. Although the COVID-19 pandemic affects most industries and occupations, heterogeneous firm responses suggest that there could be several varieties of targeted policies-targeting firms that are likely to reduce labor forces or firms likely to face reduced revenue. In this paper, the authors outline several industries and firm characteristics which appear to more directly be reducing employee counts or having negative labor responses which may lead to more cost–effect stimulus.
“Reluctant stayers do not get what they want”: the relationship between procedural injustice and workplace incivility
Authors: Singh Riann
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Research has explored the behavioural responses of reluctant stayers to various organisational perceptions. This study extends current research to explain how employees who perceive procedural injustice respond, when they intend to leave but are unable to, due to limited job alternatives. This study postulates that employees who perceive procedural injustice are more likely to develop turnover intentions. Procedural injustice is expected to indirectly influence workplace incivility, with turnover intentions as the mediator. Further, the availability of job alternatives is expected to moderate the relationship between turnover intentions and workplace incivility, to form a moderated-mediation model.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 204 retail employees across five major shopping malls within the Caribbean nation of Trinidad, using a two-wave research design. A path-analytic approach was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The findings provided support for the propositions that procedural injustice predicts turnover intentions, that turnover intentions mediate the procedural injustice – workplace incivility relationship, and that the availability of job alternatives moderate the relationship between turnover intentions and workplace incivility.

Originality/value

This study addresses a clear research gap since no study has examined how employees' perceptions of procedural injustice affect their behaviour when they intend to leave but are unable to, due to limited job alternatives. This study extends research on the behaviour of reluctant stayers.
Inclusive growth in Africa: are Chinese investment and local industry participation compatible?
Authors: Kodzi Jr Emmanuel T.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore whether increasing Chinese foreign direct investment (FDI) is associated with rising contributions of local industry in African countries connected to the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The existence of cooperative industry linkages between Chinese investments and local businesses is a necessary condition for achieving the mutual benefits asserted by the BRI.

Design/methodology/approach

Under growing FDI, the authors framed increasing local industry contribution as indicative of existing industry linkages. Using principal component analysis and multiple regression on collated country-level data, the authors examined relationships between key industry output variables and several independent variables representing Chinese investment and economic activity in a contiguous three-country region, over two investment periods.

Findings

Increasing Chinese FDI was associated with positive economic outcomes including decreasing unemployment; however, it did not appear to support local industry participation. The authors identified a “China effect” that hampered industry contribution to gross domestic product. The authors found that attempting to counterbalance this effect through direct exports to China was not strategically sound. Similarly, export-focused clusters in special zones may not foster industry linkages if they result in isolationism. Rather, host countries have an opportunity to enhance local industry contribution through leveraging interconnectivity factors under increasing FDI.

Research limitations/implications

Small sample size of the study has implications for the predictive power of the model and for the complete explanation all the emerging findings. However, the authors presented compelling arguments for selecting the specific three countries. By conducting robustness checks on a separate region, findings of this study were substantially corroborated.

Practical implications

Instead of exporting directly to China as a way to mitigate local industry contraction, host countries need to thoughtfully pursue opportunities that present the greatest value-added export advantages. Proposed Chinese-funded infrastructure projects must be negotiated with a goal to strategically reduce interconnectivity barriers and achieve broader logistics improvements in the host countries.

Social implications

The study provides a tool for proponents of local industry growth to present clearer frameworks in their advocacy. The social tensions around Chinese dominance in the host countries can be reduced by understanding and pursuing levers that enhance industry contribution in those contexts.

Originality/value

This study takes a different approach to examining the professed win-win proposition of the BRI in Africa. It uncovers important effects of increasing Chinese FDI and addresses viable host country responses, including a clear pathway for forging the cooperative industry linkages needed for inclusive growth and sustainable development.
Does foreign direct investment influence R&D activity in the host country? Evidence from Vietnam
Authors: Ha Van , Holmes Mark J. , Hassan Gazi
Published: July 2021

Purpose

This study focuses on the linkages between foreign direct investment and the research and development (R&D) and innovation activity of domestic enterprises in Vietnam.

Design/methodology/approach

The Heckman selection model approach is applied to a panel dataset of nearly 7,000 Vietnamese firms for the 2011–2015 study period to investigate the impact of foreign presence on the R&D of local firms through horizontal and vertical linkages. Probit model estimation is employed to examine how foreign investment influences the innovation activity of local companies.

Findings

While there are a small number of firms carrying out R&D activities in Vietnam, foreign or joint domestic–foreign venture firms are less inclined than domestic firms to undertake R&D. Domestic factors that include capital, labor quality, location and export status of firm have a significant effect on the decision of domestic firms to participate in R&D activity. Only forward linkages and the gross firm output are found to have an impact on the R&D intensity of domestic enterprises, while other factors appear to have no significant influence on how much firms spend on R&D activities.

Practical implications

In order to promote the R&D activity of domestic firms, policy should focus on (1) the backward linkages between local firms in downstream sectors with their foreign suppliers in upstream sectors, and (2) the internal factors such as labor, capital or location that affect the decisions made by domestic firms.

Originality/value

Given that foreign investment may affect R&D and innovation activity of local firms in host countries, the impact is relatively unexplored for many emerging economies and not so in the case of Vietnam. The availability of a unique survey on Vietnamese firm technology and competitiveness provides the opportunity to address this gap in the literature.
Research on mechanism configuration and dynamic characteristics for multi-split transmission line mobile robot
Authors: Jiang Wei , Shi Yating , Zou Dehua , Zhang Hongwei , Li Hong Jun
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to achieve the optimal system design of a four-wheel mobile robot on transmission line maintenance, as the authors know transmission line mobile robot is a kind of special robot which runs on high-voltage cable to replace or assist manual power maintenance operation. In the process of live working, the manipulator, working end effector and the working environment are located in the narrow space and with heterogeneous shapes, the robot collision-free obstacle avoidance movement is the premise to complete the operation task. In the simultaneous operation, the mechanical properties between the manipulator effector and the operation object are the key to improve the operation reliability. These put forward higher requirements for the mechanical configuration and dynamic characteristics of the robot, and this is the purpose of the manuscript.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the above, aiming at the task of tightening the tension clamp for the four-split transmission lines, the paper proposed a four-wheel mobile robot mechanism configuration and its terminal tool which can adapt to the walking and operation on multi-split transmission lines. In the study, the dynamic models of the rigid robot and flexible transmission line are established, respectively, and the dynamic model of rigid-flexible coupling system is established on this basis, the working space and dynamic characteristics of the robot have been simulated in ADAMS and MATLAB.

Findings

The research results show that the mechanical configuration of this robot can complete the tightening operation of the four-split tension clamp bolts and the motion of robot each joint meets the requirements of driving torque in the operation process, which avoids the operation failure of the robot system caused by the insufficient or excessive driving force of the robot joint torque.

Originality/value

Finally, the engineering practicability of the mechanical configuration and dynamic model proposed in the paper has been verified by the physical prototype. The originality value of the research is that it has double important theoretical significance and practical application value for the optimization of mechanical structure parameters and electrical control parameters of transmission line mobile robots.
Optimisation of geotechnical surveys using a BIM-based geostatistical analysis
Authors: Mahmoudi Elham , Stepien Marcel , König Markus
Published: July 2021

Purpose

A principle prerequisite for designing and constructing an underground structure is to estimate the subsurface's properties and obtain a realistic picture of stratigraphy. Obtaining direct measure of these values in any location of the built environment is not affordable. Therefore, any evaluation is afflicted with uncertainty, and we need to combine all available measurements, observations and previous knowledge to achieve an informed estimate and quantify the involved uncertainties. This study aims to enhance the geotechnical surveys based on a spatial estimation of subsoil to customised data structures and integrating the ground models into digital design environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study's objective is to enhance the geotechnical surveys based on a spatial estimation of subsoil to customised data structures and integrating the ground models into digital design environments. A ground model consisting of voxels is developed via Revit-Dynamo to represent spatial uncertainties employing the kriging interpolation method. The local arrangement of new surveys are evaluated to be optimised.

Findings

The visualisation model's computational performance is modified by using an octree structure. The results show that it adapts the structure to be modelled more efficiently. The proposed concept can identify the geological models' risky locations for further geological investigations and reveal an optimised experimental design. The modifications criteria are defined in global and local considerations.

Originality/value

It provides a transparent and repeatable approach to construct a spatial ground model for subsequent experimental or numerical analysis. In the first attempt, the ground model was discretised by a grid of voxels. In general, the required computing time primarily depends on the size of the voxels. This issue is addressed by implementing octree voxels to reduce the computational efforts. This applies especially to the cases that a higher resolution is required. The investigations using a synthetic soil model showed that the developed methodology fulfilled the kriging method's requirements. The effects of variogram parameters, such as the range and the covariance function, were investigated based on some parameter studies. Moreover, a synthetic model is used to demonstrate the optimal experimental design concept. Through the implementation, alternative locations for new boreholes are generated, and their uncertainties are quantified. The impact of the new borehole on the uncertainty measures are quantified based on local and global approaches. For further research to identify the geological models' risky spots, the development of this approach with additional criteria regarding the search neighbourhood and consideration of barriers and trends in real cases (by employing different interpolation methodologies) should be considered.
A new fuzzy approach for managing data governance implementation relevant activities
Authors: Ahmadi Sadra , Tavana Mohammad Mahdi , Shokouhyar Sajjad , Dortaj Mina
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an approach for managing relevant factors and activities for implementing data governance in an organization. The process of assessing the establishment of data governance in an organization is intrinsically imprecise, due to the characteristics of new problem settings, particularly in relation to newly generated alternatives or vaguely defined qualitative assessment criteria.

Design/methodology/approach

To reject the inherent subjectiveness and imprecision involved in the evaluation process, the authors use the concept of fuzzy logic in this approach for developing the assessment model and analyzing the model for allocating the management efforts in the most efficient way to improve the data governance deployment level.

Findings

This paper identifies relevant factors and activities for implementing data governance in an organization and evaluates the state of data governance based on causal relationships between influential factors. In this study, factors are prioritized for effective allocation of limited management efforts in any improvement plan.

Research limitations/implications

The interrelationships among factors are contextual and based on the perceptions of experts who may be biased as per their background and area of expertise. Meanwhile, lack of a data governance plan may cause failure during its implementation in an organization, as the worth of an organization's data will not be determined precisely. The paper has tremendous practical implications for organizations that intend to implement the data governance program and evaluate its state to design an improvement plan.

Originality/value

The paper proposes an approach for implementing data governance in an organization faced with limited resources for improvement.