bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fingerprinting of hatchery haplotypes by whole-mitogenome sequencing improves genetic studies of masu salmonOncorhynchus masou masou
Authors: Kato-Unoki Yoko , Umemura Keitaro , Tashiro Kosuke
Published: January 2020

Stocking hatchery fish can lead to disturbance and extinction of the local indigenous population. Stocking similar lineages to the indigenous population makes it difficult to conduct genetic studies to determine conservation units. We considered that, due to the length of the mitogenome, whole-mitogenome analysis might overcome this problem by enabling identification of hatchery haplotypes. Here, to provide basic information for conservation of indigenous masu salmonOncorhynchus masou masou, a commonly stocked fish in the Kase River system, Japan, we used whole-mitogenome analysis of fish to identify hatchery haplotypes in the river and in several hatcheries that might be used for stocking. Whole-mitogenome sequencing clearly identified hatchery haplotypes like fingerprints, identifying the tributaries contaminated with hatchery haplotypes. The results suggest that informal stocking ofO. m. masouhas been performed widely across the Kase River system. Non-hatchery haplotypes mainly belonged to clade I, which was not found in northern Hokkaido Island. Sites without hatchery haplotypes were estimated three, suggesting that these sites are suitable for conservation of the indigenous fish. This study demonstrated that the resolution of the conventional analysis using partial mitogenome is insufficient to distinguish hatchery haplotype from similar lineages. The whole-mitogenome sequences provided accurate information that was not available in the partial sequences, enabling various inferences: e.g., estimation of the origin of stocked fish and circulation of the reared strains. We conclude that whole-mitogenome analysis is useful for the genetic study of this species. The whole-mitogenome data produced will contribute to the conservation, resource management, and further study ofO. m. masou.
DNA polymerase β prevents AID-instigated mutagenic non-canonical mismatch DNA repair
Authors: Bahjat Mahnoush , Stratigopoulou Maria , Pilzecker Bas , van Dam Tijmen P. , Mobach Simon , Bende Richard J. , van Noesel Carel J.M. , Jacobs Heinz , Guikema Jeroen E.J.
Published: January 2020

In B cells, the error-prone repair of activation-induced cytidine deaminase (AID)-induced lesions in immunoglobulin variable genes cause somatic hypermutation (SHM) of antibody genes. Due to clonal selection in the germinal centers (GC) this active mutation process provides the molecular basis for antibody affinity maturation. AID deaminates cytosine (C) to create uracil (U) in DNA. Typically, the short patch base excision repair (spBER) effectively restores genomic U lesions. We here demonstrate that GC B cells actively degrade DNA polymerase β (Polβ), resulting in the inactivation of the gap-filling step of spBER. Consequently, lesions instigated by AID, and likely other base damages, are channeled towards mutagenic non-canonical mismatch repair (mncMMR), responsible for the vast majority of mutations at adenine and thymine (A:T) bases. Apparently, GC B cells prohibit faithful spBER, thereby favoring A:T mutagenesis during SHM. Lastly, our data suggest that the loss of Polβ relates to hypoxia that characterizes the GC microenvironment.
2-[(5-Chloropyridin-2-ylimino)methyl]phenol
Authors: Mamallan Krishnasamy , Gomathi Sundaramoorthy , Soundararajan Krishnan , Sethuraman Velusamy
Published: January 2020

In the title compound, C12H9ClN2O, the dihedral angle between the aromatic rings is 1.78 (4)° and an intramolecular O—H...N hydrogen bond closes an S(6) ring. In the crystal, C—H...O and C—H...N hydrogen bonds connect the molecules into [001] chains.
Determination of critical salinity of pitting and uniform corrosion of X60 under CO2-O2coexistence environment
Authors: Dong BaoJun , Liu Wei , Wu Fei , Zhu JiaQi , Wongpat Banthukul , Zhao Yonggang , Fan Yueming , Zhang TianYi
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The salinity of the oilfield produced water has a significant effect on steel corrosion. The purpose of this paper is to study the influence of salinity on corrosion behavior of X60 steel and it also provides basic for material selection of gas wells with high salinity.

Design/methodology/approach

The weight loss experiment was carried out on steel with high temperature and high pressure autoclave. The surface morphology and composition of corrosion scales were studied by means of scanning electron microscopy, energy dispersive spectroscopy and X-ray diffractometry.

Findings

The results show that as salinity increases, the corrosion rate of X60 steel will gradually experience a rapid decline stage and then a slow decline stage. X60 steel is mainly exhibiting uniform corrosion in the first rapid decline stage and pitting corrosion in the second slow decline stage. The increase in salinity reduces gas solubility, which, in turn, changes the morphology and density of the corrosion scales of X60 steel. At low salinity, loose iron oxides generated on the surface of the steel, which poorly protects the substrate. At high salinity, surface of the steel gradually forms protective films. Chloride ions in the saline solution mainly affect the structure of the corrosion scales and initiate pitting corrosion. The increased chloride ions lead to more pitting pits on the surface of steel. The recrystallization of FeCO3in pitting pits causes the corrosion scales to bulge.

Originality/value

The investigation determined the critical concentration of pitting corrosion and uniform corrosion of X60 steel, and the new corrosion mechanism model was presented.
The influence of half-cycle rectified sinusoidal alternating current (AC) on corrosion of X80 pipeline steel in an acid bicarbonate solution
Authors: Li Hailing , Wan Hongxia , Wang Shengrong , Du Cuiwei , Zhang Dawei
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of alternating current (AC) on corrosion, it is not yet clear about the exact mechanism of the corrosion induced by AC. Previous reports indicated that AC corrosion was similar to the effect of continuous cathodic and anodic polarization on the corrosion process of the metals. Wan et al. studied the effect of negative half-wave AC on stress corrosion cracking behavior and mechanism of X80 pipeline steel in near-neutral solution.

Design/methodology/approach

This study attempted to understand the AC-induced corrosion by imposing the half-cycle AC on the X80 pipeline steel in an acid bicarbonate solution. The AC corrosion mechanism was determined by weight loss and potentiodynamic polarization curve measurements, as well as surface characterization.

Findings

The results show that the positive half-cycle AC accelerated the uniform corrosion in the NaHCO3 solution, the negative half-cycle AC would decrease the uniform corrosion and local corrosion was increased and some Ca and Mg deposited on the surface of X80 steel, so the corrosion rate decreased by negative half-cycle AC. The corrosion product was composed of α-FeOOH under the application of positive half-cycle AC. The oxygen reduction led to a local increase of pH near the electrode surface and led to the formation of α-FeOOH, which enhanced the protectability of corrosion products.

Originality/value

Researchers studied the effect of negative half-wave AC on stress corrosion cracking behavior and mechanism of X80 pipeline steel in near-neutral solution. However, the AC behavior and corrosion mechanism in acid solution are unknown. So to make clear about the corrosion behavior of metals in different polarization states and the mechanism involved, diode technology was used to research the AC corrosion, half-wave AC was applied on the metals after the full-wave rectified.
An improved selective harmonics elimination technique for PV assisted single phase grid-tied PWM inverter
Authors: Santra Subhendu Bikash , Mohanty Subodh Kumar
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to present a new methodology of selective harmonics elimination (SHE) technique suitable for single-phase photovoltaic (PV) tied pulse width modulated (PWM) inverter.

Design/methodology/approach

In the proposed SHE, switching angles for inverter control are determined offline through numerical techniques and stored in a microcontroller memory as a function of modulation index (md). The methodology uses the solution that leads to a lower change of switching angles from the previous modulation index (md) for storing in the processor memory for multiple solutions. This leads to a smaller number of sections when a piecewise mixed model is considered for storing the entire switching angle curve for the online inverter control. The proposed idea is simulated and experimentally validated on a laboratory prototype of PV (500 W) grid-tied PWM inverter. The control environment is then realized in NI c-RIO 9082.

Findings

This proposed technique is suitable for limiting voltage total harmonics distortion (THD) in single-phase PV tied grid connected voltage source inverter (VSI). Moreover, it is found that filter (L-C) size requirement is less.

Originality/value

The proposed SHE with piecewise mixed model technique effectively reduces voltage THD with less filter size (L-C) in a single-phase PV-tied system.
Analytical approach for spoke-type permanent magnet machine including finite permeability of iron core
Authors: Ladghem Chikouche Brahim , Ibtiouen Rachid
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is the introduction of finite permeability of ferromagnetic core in analytical approach for slotted spoke-type permanent magnet machine.

Design/methodology/approach

A two-dimensional analytical approach of magnetic field distribution is established for spoke-type permanent magnet machine to calculate the flux density distribution in the middle of airgap. The paper presents an analytical subdomain model accounting for stator slotting effect. The governing equations are obtained from Maxwell’s equations by using vector potential in all regions of the machine, i.e. magnet, airgap, stator slots and rotor/stator yoke. The finite element analysis is used to validate the analytical results.

Findings

It is found that the developed subdomain model including finite permeability of ferromagnetic core is accurate and is applicable for spoke-type permanent magnet machine for no-load and on-load condition. The analytical results are in accurate agreement with the numerical simulation.

Originality/value

Some assumptions and conditions are presented to improve and simplify the analytical method for analyzing the global saturation for spoke-type permanent magnet machine.
Approaches for increasing the lifetime of single-shot coils
Authors: Schubotz Stefan , Nacke Bernard
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is now to optimize the coil in a way that its lifetime is increased. In the industry, induction hardening of rotationally symmetrical workpieces in a single-shot process is a common method. Owing to only partial superimposition of the workpiece areas to be heated by the inductor, high power densities are frequently needed there. These lead to local hot spots, amounting to an intensive material stress in the copper and often result in short lifetime of the inductor.

Design/methodology/approach

In this elaboration, some numerically analysed approaches are presented that can be used to reduce mechanical stresses in the single-shot inductor and thus increase the service life.

Findings

It has been found out that changing the coil profiles has a strong influence on its lifetime. Besides that, the heat transfer coefficient between coil and coolant plays a big role and needs to be considered when the coil is dimensioned.

Originality/value

The lifetime of the coil is an important factor and often requested from the customers. Broken coils create a lot of extra costs and can generate downtime. Therefore, many customers that are struggling with thermal fatigue are interested in approaches that prolong the coil lifetime.
Quadrupolarisability extraction for planar metamaterial scatterers via far-field response
Authors: Karamanos Theodosios , Amanatiadis Stamatis A. , Zygiridis Theodoros , Kantartzis Nikolaos V.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The majority of first-principle, homogenisation techniques makes use of the dipole terms of a small particle radiation, and, consequently, the respective dipole polarisabilities. This paper aims to take the next step and propose a new systematic technique for extracting the quadrupolarisability of planar metamaterial scatterers.

Design/methodology/approach

Firstly, it is assumed that the particle, under study, can be modelled as a set of dipole and quadrupole moments, and by utilising the respective polarisabilities, the far-field response of the scatterer is calculated. Then, the far-field scattering field of the particle is constructed in terms of the dipole and quadrupole moments, which, in turn, are expressed as a function of the unknown polarisabilities. Finally, the desired polarisabilities are retrieved by a system of equations, which involves numerically derived electric field values at specific positions around the scatterer.

Findings

The quadrupolarisability of planar metamaterial particles is extracted, through an easy to use, yet very accurate and efficient methodology. Moreover, the proposed technique is verified via comprehensive comparisons of consequently computed and simulated total radiated power values, which reveal its advantages and applicability limits. Finally, the total radiation power contribution of each calculated, individual multipole is provided, to further investigate the radiation mechanism of all nano-particles under study.

Originality/value

The initial and most important step of extracting a single quadrupolarisability of a planar realistic nano-particle has been performed, herein, for the first time. The addition of the respective quadrupole in the scattering model, shifts the multipole approximation limit upwards in terms of frequency, and, therefore, nano-particles with quadrupole resonances can, now, be precisely represented via polarisabilities for various metamaterial or metasurface applications.
Cognitive enhancement with licit and illicit stimulants in the Netherlands and Finland: what is the evidence?
Authors: Hupli Aleksi
Published: January 2020

Purpose

European studies have shown lower prevalence rates of prescription stimulant use for cognitive enhancement, especially among student populations, compared to North America. This difference requires more cross-country research of the various factors involved. To find out whether other parts of the globe are witnessing similar increases in extra-medical stimulant use, and how this might relate to cognitive enhancement, requires empirical study of local contexts. This paper aims to argue that the academic and public discussion on cognitive enhancement should consider the specific country context of drug policy and research and rethink which drugs are included under the term cognitive enhancement drugs.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper offers a general review and a sociological country comparison between the Netherlands and Finland, focusing not only on prescription stimulants used to treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder but also illicit amphetamines among young adults and methylphenidate use among Dutch and Finnish participants of the Global Drug Survey. This paper emphasises sociocultural perspectives and the importance of context in cognitive enhancement in general as the line between therapeutic and enhancement use can often be blurred. Data is drawn from global, European and national sources, including the International Narcotics Control Board, European Monitoring Centre for Drugs and Drug Addiction and Global Drug Survey.

Findings

There are hardly any national empirical studies done on cognitive enhancement drug use in Finland. On the other hand, there have been studies in the Netherlands showcasing that the use of prescription stimulants and other drugs for enhancement purposes is something that is happening among young people, albeit yet in a relatively small scale. Illicit and licit stimulant use and drug policy action in relation to cognitive enhancement drugs in the two countries varies, emphasising the importance of country context.

Originality/value

Given that cross-country research is scarce, this general review provides one of the first glimpses into cognitive enhancement drug use by comparing the country context and research in Finland, where the phenomenon has not been studied, with the Netherlands, where the topic has received more research and public attention. Further research areas are suggested.
Knowledge management activities and strategic planning capability development
Authors: Hughes Paul , Hodgkinson Ian
Published: January 2020

Purpose

While the strategic management literature extols the virtues of engaging in strategic planning for superior performance, how a dynamic strategic planning capability can be developed remains underexplored; a knowledge void addressed by the paper through applying knowledge-based theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A mail survey was sent to high technology firms randomly sampled from the Kompass Directory of UK businesses. Firms were sampled at the SBU level, given the focus on strategic planning capability.

Findings

An organization’s strategic planning capability derives from extensive information distribution and organizational memory. While learning values is non-significant, symbolic information use degrades the development of a strategic planning capability.

Research limitations/implications

By investigating the contributory activities that lead to strategic planning capability development, the findings establish how strategic planning materializes in organizations. Further, the differential effects found for knowledge management activities on strategic planning capability development extend empirical studies that suggest knowledge is always a central tenet of strategic planning.

Practical implications

A set of key knowledge activities is identified that managers must address for strategic planning capability development: strategic planning routines and values of search, analysis and assessment should be appropriately informed by investments in knowledge dissemination and memory on a continual basis. Meanwhile, information misuse compromises strategic planning capabilities, and managers must protect against out-of-context or manipulated information from infiltrating into organizational memory.

Originality/value

Despite the advent of the knowledge-based theory and its core premise that capabilities derive from knowledge management activities, little research has been conducted into demonstrating the knowledge-based antecedents of a strategic planning capability.
Odd couple collaborations and making them tick!
Authors: Jha Pushkar P. , Johnston Lorraine
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Be it about blending intangibles to deliver to market needs or directed at fulfilling aspirations pushing at technological frontiers, inter-firm collaborations across industry boundaries are much in vogue. This paper aims to classify some collaborations as “odd couple collaborations”. These are fuelled more by aspirations of the partner firms, and not as much by market pull. The study provides key distinguishing characteristics for these and an understanding of what makes them tick.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on secondary sources in the public domain to understand the motives and performance of several inter-firm collaborations. Odd couple collaborations are examined and some essential performance enablers are highlighted.

Findings

A typology that distinguishes odd couple collaborations from other inter-firm collaborations is drawn out. Analysing the performance of such collaborations, and a need for partners to work on the visibility and appeal of such collaborations, is discussed. Stringent market evaluation of the offering and careful creative blending of intangibles are also highlighted as key enablers.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to a vast body of research on inter-sector or distant collaborations by isolating and examining a niche that is fast becoming pronounced. The analysis of odd couple collaborations provides cues for effective strategies for superior value from such collaborations. As organisations constantly seek to extend their innovative potential, these insights may prove useful for both practice and research.
Predicting purchasing behavior of green food in Algerian context
Authors: Troudi Hadjer , Bouyoucef Djamila
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold: first, the verification of applicability of reasoned action theory to analyze consumer behavior in Algerian context; and second, the identification and analysis of factors influencing purchasing behavior in green food sector.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors proposed a model based on reasoned action theory that combines two types of variables, the green marketing type and personal type, in order to predict purchasing behavior of green food. The authors have established a structural equations modeling, with a path analysis on a sample of 304 Algerian consumers from Algiers town.

Findings

The model was confirmed and the results showed how green marketing and personal factors influence the green food purchasing behavior in direct and indirect way, in presence of the mediating variables’ attitude toward green food and intention to buy green food.

Research limitations/implications

There is no database or any information concerning green consumption in Algerian context. There is a lack of information about green production in food field. The choice of reasoned action theory as a theory explaining the decision-making process leading to purchasing act is based on fact that the Algerian field of food sector is virgin of this type of analysis, so the authors thought it is appropriate to apply the reasoned action theory as a first initiative in this field. Also, a more recent and more innovative psychological theory should be applied in the future studies.

Practical implications

The study will give researchers interested in Algerian context a better understanding of consumer behavior, especially in green product case, and will open new paths for future research in the same field by the application of another psychological theory that is more recent and innovative; the study can open research paths for other fields as well, such as consumer behavior toward green cosmetic products in Algeria.

Social implications

The implications of this research can assist marketers for better positioning in green food market using the results indicated in research. The better understanding of factors influencing consumer purchasing behavior will encourage contractors to invest in this field in Algiers town context.

Originality/value

The study was established in a context where consumer market data of green food are non-existent, so the research represents an orientation to green food marketers toward a better positioning in relation to influence factors of their market target.
Eco-innovation in hospitality research (1998-2018): a systematic review
Authors: Sharma Tanmay , Chen Joseph , Liu Wan Yu
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Theoretical and empirical developments in academic literature have not been able to keep pace with the growing industry focus on eco-innovation and green hospitality practices. This paper aims to address this gap and provide an up-to-date review of research on eco-innovative practices in 13 leading hospitality journals over the past two decades, 1998-2018.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic review that incorporates the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses flow diagram is used to guide the data selection for this paper. The paper analyzes 403 studies published in 13 established hospitality journals to identify homogeneous research themes.

Findings

A unified conceptual framework is proposed by identifying seven research domains under eco-innovative practices. Even though research attention on green practices has increased in recent years, the development of conceptual frameworks, appropriate measurement scales and theoretical support for eco-innovative practices is warranted.

Research limitations/implications

Although the paper attempts to include as many environmentally related studies as possible, by being restricted to papers published only in 13 leading hospitality journals, it may not have drawn on all relevant eco-innovation studies in hospitality research.

Originality/value

To the knowledge of the authors, this is the first systematic analysis of hospitality research on eco-innovative practices that reviews such a large number (403) of studies spanning the past two decades (1998-2018). The most recent review by Kim et al. (2017) covered 146 green research studies published between 2000 and 2014; whereas, out of 403 studies reviewed in this study, 231 (57per cent) have been published between 2014 and 2018. This trend is indicative of the fast-evolving nature of sustainability research and the need for an up-to-date systematic review of recent literature in the field.
Adding dynamicity to consumer value dimensions
Authors: Sánchez-Fernández Raquel , Gallarza Martina G. , Arteaga Francisco
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the dynamic nature of consumer value by proposing a causal model that shows the existence of sequentiality in value dimensions and in their influence on satisfaction and loyalty. The paper focuses on intrinsic dimensions of value (play, aesthetics, ethics and escapism), which are fully experiential, and therefore less studied in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model proposed was empirically tested in tourist hotel accommodations. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire, analyzing the experiences of 285 hotel guests with structural equation modeling-partial least squares.

Findings

The results reveal that the reactive dimensions of value (aesthetics and escapism) influence the active ones (play and ethics), which in turn affect consumers’ satisfaction and loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is exploratory and focuses on the intrinsic dimensions of value. Future research should consider the entire extrinsic/intrinsic value duality. This paper is based on a convenience sample consisting solely of hotel accommodation. Further studies based on a random sample and on other hospitality contexts would be required to generalize the results.

Practical implications

This paper can help hotel managers to understand the role and importance of each intrinsic dimension of value to successfully implement their relationship marketing strategies, defined by the chain value-satisfaction-loyalty.

Originality/value

This paper depicts the dynamic nature of value, with concatenated (and not simultaneous) effects of value dimensions on satisfaction and loyalty, which supports research in value co-creation.
The study on the architecture of crowd system supporting platform
Authors: Huang Shuangxi , Jia Zhixuan , Fan Yushun , Feng Taiwen , He Ting , Bai Shizhen , Wu Zhiyong
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to better understand and study the architecture and system characteristics of the underlying support platform for crowd system, by recognizing the characteristics of service internet is similar to the coordination characteristics between the massive units in the underlying platform of crowd system and studying the form, nature and guidelines of the service internet.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper points out the connection between the underlying support platform of crowd system and service internet, describes the framework and ideas for researching service internet and then proposes key technologies and solutions for service internet architecture and system characteristics.

Findings

The research unit in the underlying support platform of crowd system can be regarded as a service unit. Therefore, the platform can also be regarded as service internet to some extent. The ideas and technical approaches for the study of service internet’s form, criteria and characteristics are also provided.

Originality/value

According to this paper, relevant staff can be guided to better build the underlying support platform of crowd system. And it can provide a highly robust and sustainable platform for research studies of crowd science and engineering in the future.
Validating oil and gas royalty rate measurement scale: evidence from Nigeria
Authors: Ya'u Abba , Saad Natrah , Mas'ud Abdulsalam
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This study aims to validate the royalty rate measurement scale by using rigorous scale validation procedures.

Design/methodology/approach

Evaluation of reliability and validity of the measures of royalty rate was performed through confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) using SPSS version 25 and PLS-SEM version 3.8.

Findings

The results provide evidence that the royalty rate measurement scale has achieved reliability and validity criteria.

Research limitations/implications

Consequently, policymakers, practitioners and researchers can adopt this scale to assess the royalty rate in other energy sectors where royalty arrangements exist in different jurisdictions across the globe.

Practical implications

The practical contributions of the study are threefold. First, the validated scale presented in Table IV can serve as a checklist for oil and gas producing countries while assessing the stringiness or otherwise of their royalty rates. Second, the validated scale can be used to assess the perception of oil and gas companies with regards to the royalty rate as whether the rate is too high and worrisome or is acceptable. Finally, it could also be used to assess the role of regulatory bodies in assessing royalty rates while dealing with multinational and local oil companies. Eventually, the scale can assist policymakers across the globe to adapt in investment decision-making, particularly regarding royalty arrangement.

Originality/value

This study undoubtedly builds the existing literature and contributes to the subject area; by implication, the validated scale will assist host oil and gas countries with stringent royalty rate to revise the royalty policy in such a way to ensure neutrality, thereby not chasing away the current investors or discouraging prospective ones from investing in their oil and gas industry.
Gender and entrepreneurship: past achievements and future possibilities
Authors: Marlow Susan
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this short commentary reflects upon how feminist theory might be used to advance the contemporary gendered critique of women’s entrepreneurship. Drawing from gender theory, a diverse and complex critique has arisen to challenge the discriminatory discourse of entrepreneurship that fundamentally disadvantages women. To progress debate, the author suggests that greater attention should be afforded to feminist theories as explanatory analyses for such subordination and particularly to challenge contemporary postfeminist ideas which fuel a false promise of entrepreneurship for women.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual paper drawing upon extant literature to develop suggestions for future research .

Findings

Conceptual arguments challenging current approaches to analysing the relationship between women, gender and entrepreneurship.

Research limitations/implications

Somewhat controversially, it is suggested that such a critique might encourage us to refocus research such that it challenges, rather than seeks to confirm, the axiom that under current conditions, entrepreneurship is “good” for women and society so ergo, we need more women entrepreneurs. Greater acknowledgement of feminist theory will also facilitate a stronger intersectional analysis, vital if we are to acknowledge how socio-economic and contextual diversity constrains or enables entrepreneurial behaviour.

Social implications

This article challenges contemporary researchers to reconsider current thinking regarding the value of entrepreneurial activity for women.

Originality/value

The commentary concludes by identifying how the next generation of scholars might take such ideas forward to build upon established foundations.
Relational business negotiation – propositions based on an interactional perspective
Authors: Eklinder-Frick Jens Ola , Åge Lars-Johan
Published: January 2020

Purpose

Historically, a transactional perspective has dominated the business negotiation literature. This perspective includes the notions that business negotiations are a linear process that follows episodic or stage models, business negotiations are geared toward an outcome in the form of a one-time transaction, business negotiations focus on a single negotiator or negotiation in a dyad and the research has historically viewed negotiation as a “zero-sum” game. Inspired by a long tradition of empirical studies of business relationships, there is good reason to apply a conceptual analysis to challenge these four assumptions and propose an alternative view on the negotiation process. The purpose of this paper is to contrast how aspects of business negotiations are commonly conceptualized with the industrial marketing and purchasing (IMP) perspective and develop propositions that will contribute to future research by offering guidelines for the development of business negotiation literature.

Design/methodology/approach

To contribute to a discussion on the relation between conceptualization and research results, definitions within the existing literature regarding business negotiation are contrasted with similar definitions of concepts from the IMP perspective.

Findings

Four propositions have been formulated that further the conceptual understanding of business negotiation. Moreover, a need for future methodological deliberations is demonstrated, and suggestions for future research in the field are offered.

Originality/value

Introducing a relational perspective into the conceptually rather underdeveloped stream of research would help to develop the existing critique within the business negotiation literature of its transactional, linear and dyadic focus.
Enabling roles of relationship governance mechanisms in the choice of inter-firm conflict resolution strategies
Authors: Shahzad Khuram , Ali Tahir , Kohtamäki Marko , Takala Josu
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This study aims to present an integrated framework and investigate the enabling roles of governance mechanisms (i.e. contract, interdependence, trust and communication) in the choice of effective conflict resolution strategies (CRS) that in turn facilitate buyer–supplier relationship (BSR) performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Using Web-survey, data are collected from 170 Finnish small- and medium-sized enterprises that have key relationships with suppliers. This study uses structural equation modeling to test the research framework and hypotheses of the study.

Findings

The results based on empirical evidence demonstrate how the firms’ choice of CRS depends on the governance mechanisms. The problem solving approach is the most preferable choice, while the legalistic approach remains the last resort influenced by different governance mechanisms. Interdependence and trust between firms drive them to compromise while resolving inter-organizational conflicts. The selected strategies by firms may also either reinforce or deteriorate relationship performance.

Practical implications

Supply chain managers should recognize the context in which these choices of CRS are made, as it guides them to anticipate their partner’s behavior as well as influences their strategy choice decisions when coping with conflicts. A trustworthy environment supports in providing a certain level of confidence while interdependency drives firms to compromise. The legalistic strategy can hurt the partner’s feelings and diminish relationship performance.

Originality/value

Conflicts in BSR have become inevitable, but the existing literature is missing evidence on how companies use CRS to enhance relationship performance. Hence, this study differs from those of earlier conflict studies, as it provides a more integrative perspective of buyer–supplier conflict resolution process. This study argues that relationship governance mechanisms can be connected to the choice of effective CRS when tensions arise. Moreover, by assessing the relationship between CRS and relationship performance, this study offers valuable insights to understand that effective strategies enable partners to mutually adapt constructive approaches that facilitate cooperative behavior and accommodate both parties’ interests and needs.
Mediating effects of individual market orientation on the link between learning orientation and job performance
Authors: Hamzah Muhammad Iskandar , Othman Abdul Kadir , Hassan Faridah
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine whether individual market orientation facilitates the development of learning orientation before influencing business-to-business (B2B) salespeople’s performance within the banking industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered from 539 B2B salespeople from 18 licenced local and foreign financial institutions in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, by means of a structured survey. The individual market orientation (I-MARKOR) scale was used to measure their market-oriented behaviour specifically in terms of information acquisition, information dissemination and coordination of strategic response. The data were analyzed using confirmatory factor analysis via structural equation modelling to examine the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

Information Dissemination and Coordination of Strategic Response are reported to impose significant intervention effects on the relationship between learning orientation and job performance. Salespeople who embrace positive learning values are in a favourable position to disseminate and respond to new market information. Subsequently, these behaviours helped them to achieve higher levels of job performance.

Practical implications

By assessing and profiling the market-oriented behaviour of their salespeople, firms will be able to focus on the right competencies training and market-focussed performance appraisal.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the enrichment of the existing literature on individual market orientation and learning orientation by proposing a model that was empirically tested to be a valid and reliable predictor of job performance.
Makeup or mask: makeup’s effect on salesperson trustworthiness
Authors: Mittal Sarah , Silvera David H.
Published: January 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate how the use of varying amounts of makeup by sales personnel influences perceived salesperson trustworthiness and downstream purchase intentions/sales effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

Two studies were run with female and male makeup usage examined separately. In each study, a between-subjects, scenario-based experiment was run on Qualtrics in which participants were randomly assigned to conditions representing a salesperson with varying levels of makeup usage (none to glamorous/extreme).

Findings

Using ANOVA, the authors find that the glamorous/extreme makeup condition led to significantly lower perceptions of trustworthiness. Furthermore, mediation models for both studies found that increased salesperson makeup predicted lower perceived trustworthiness, resulting in lower purchase intentions and sales effectiveness.

Practical implications

Managers and salespersons can benefit from these findings through increased awareness of the “masking” effect of wearing too much makeup and the insight that more is not always better when it comes to the use of makeup to increase salesperson attractiveness and effectiveness.

Originality/value

Much work has been done in the past on attractiveness of salespersons in general and the “beauty premium.” The present work expands on this literature by examining a specific strategy, yet to be rigorously examined, that sales personnel may use to increase their attractiveness – makeup, and by identifying an “optimal” level of makeup usage.
Road block(chain): bit(coin)s for tourism sustainable development goals?
Authors: Tham Aaron , Sigala Marianna
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the disrupting usage and impacts of blockchains and cryptocurrencies and advocate their role as enablers of sustainable tourism development goals.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature on blockchains and cryptocurrencies is critically synthesized, debated and expanded to identify and discuss their implications toward sustainable tourism futures.

Findings

As a distributive digital ledger, blockchains have the potential to create a more inclusive tourism future to address debates around tourism as a vehicle for sustainable development that alludes to value accruing to only certain providers and consumers. Blockchains and their cryptocurrencies (as a financial transaction capability) elevate trust and relational capabilities in an expedited and holistic manner, democratize participation in economic systems and re-distribute power and economic relations amongst actors by influencing the way data (the currency of the digital economy and the lifeblood of tourism) is collected, stored, exchange, owned and traded for co-creating value.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is conceptual and speculative by identifying ways in which blockchain and cryptocurrencies can support sustainable tourism development goals. Directions for future research are provided for further elaborating and collecting primary evidence on whether the premise and applications of these technologies can deliver the acclaimed sustainable impacts.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the emerging but controversial literature about the trajectories between technology and sustainability by critically debating on how blockchains, through cryptocurrency economies, can be positioned to facilitate sustainable tourism futures.
Money laundering through deposit boxes
Authors: Teichmann Fabian Maximilian Johannes , Falker Marie-Christin
Published: January 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to exemplify how money launderers in European German-speaking countries use deposit boxes to place incriminated funds.

Design/methodology/approach

During a qualitative content analysis of 60 semi-standardized expert interviews with both criminals and prevention experts and a quantitative survey of 200 compliance officers, concrete money laundering techniques using deposit boxes were identified.

Findings

Deposit boxes may be used to place incriminated funds or prepare for their subsequent placement. Thus, the method is highly suitable to the demands of small-scale money laundering.

Research limitations/implications

The study’s qualitative findings are limited to the perspectives of the 60 interview partners. The interviews were conducted in a semi-standardized fashion.

Practical implications

The present paper aims at identifying gaps in existing anti-money laundering mechanisms to provide compliance officers, law enforcement agencies and legislators with worthwhile insights into the minds of criminals.

Originality/value

The present paper illustrates how money launderers operate to avoid detection, capturing the perspective of the launderer. Thus, the reader is granted access to highly valuable information that is supposed to facilitate the introduction of new anti-money laundering measures. Moreover, it shows how compliance officers view the issue and what they consider to be important to the successful implementation of compliance mechanisms. Moreover, the officers’ statements will exhibit which methods they do and do not engage with on a daily basis.
Using generalized audit software to detect material misstatements, control deficiencies and fraud
Authors: Bradford Marianne , Henderson Dave , Baxter Ryan J. , Navarro Patricia
Published: January 2020

Purpose

As technology integration in auditing continues to grow, it is important to understand how auditors perceive connections between use of generalized audit software (GAS) and audit benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

The DeLone and McLean information systems success model (2003) is adapted with audit-related uses of GAS as antecedents to information quality. Survey data on 188 current users of GAS, who are financial and IT auditors, is analyzed with partial least squares method.

Findings

For financial auditors, detecting material misstatements antecedent is the only significant indicator of information quality for GAS. For IT auditors, detecting control deficiencies and fraud significantly impacts information quality. Information quality influences use for both auditors; however, it only influences satisfaction with GAS for financial auditors. System quality impacts GAS satisfaction for only IT auditors and has no impact on GAS use for either type of auditor. Service quality influences use of GAS for financial, but not IT auditors. For both groups, service quality has no impact on satisfaction with GAS, and GAS use and satisfaction with GAS positively increases their perceptions of audit benefits.

Originality/value

Financial and IT auditors who use GAS are both focused on matching GAS use with their primary audit objectives. Results suggest that as GAS use increases, system quality may be important to satisfaction. Training should first focus on the usefulness of GAS to the audit to increase extent of use. Lastly, the more auditors use GAS and are satisfied with it, the greater their perception GAS contributing directly to benefit the audit.
What makes a Chief Digital Officer successful?
Authors: Berman Saul , Baird Carolyn Heller , Eagan Kevin , Marshall Anthony
Published: January 2020

Purpose

A new IBM Institute for Business Value (IBV) study has now found that the appointment of a CDO–along with a robust digital transformation program–is strongly correlated with stronger corporate financial performance.

Design/methodology/approach

IBM IBV surveyed more than 1,500 business executives in 23 countries and across eighteen industries, of which 750 were CDOs. Based on our analysis, we have created a framework to determine under what circumstances it makes sense to appoint a CDO, and if a CDO is appointed, the set of CDO characteristics and responsibilities that are most likely to yield maximum business benefits and returns.

Findings

The analysis indicates top CDOs’ strongest characteristic is actually business strategy, not technology. The data indicates there is a higher positive financial impact when a CDO reports to the CIO—not when they report to a CEO

Practical implications

Top CDOs take a balanced approach toward transformation. They seem to be evolutionaries and not revolutionaries.

Originality/value

The study found that, contrary to conventional expectations, CDOs most valuable skill could well be their ability to think and act strategically.