bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The molecular link between auxin and ROS-Mediated polar root hair growth
Authors: Mangano Silvina , Denita-Juarez Silvina Paola , Choi Hee-Seung , Marzol Eliana , Hwang Youra , Ranocha Philippe , Velasquez Silvia Melina , Borassi Cecilia , Barberini María Laura , Aptekmann Ariel Alejandro , Muschietti Jorge Prometeo , Nadra Alejandro Daniel , Dunand Christophe , Cho Hyung-Taeg , Estevez José Manuel
Published: March 2017

Root hair polar growth is endogenously controlled by auxin and sustained by oscillating levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). These cells extend several hundred-fold their original size toward signals important for plant survival. Although their final cell size is of fundamental importance, the molecular mechanisms that control it remain largely unknown. Here, we show that ROS production is controlled by the transcription factors RSL4, which in turn is transcriptionally regulated by auxin through several Auxin Responsive Factors (ARFs). In this manner, auxin controls ROS-mediated polar growth by activating RSL4, which then upregulates the expression of genes encoding NADPH oxidases (also known as RBOHs, RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG proteins) and Class-III Peroxidases (PER), which catalyse ROS production. Chemical or genetic interference with the ROS balance or peroxidase activity affect root hair final cell size. Overall, our findings establish a molecular link between auxin regulated ARFs-RSL4 and ROS-mediated polar root hair growth.

Significance Statement

Tip-growing root hairs are excellent model systems to decipher the molecular mechanism underlying reactive oxygen species (ROS)-mediated cell elongation. Root hairs are able to expand in response to external signals, increasing several hundred-fold their original size, which is important for survival of the plant. Although their final cell size is of fundamental importance, the molecular mechanisms that control it remain largely unknown. In this study, we propose a molecular mechanism that links the auxin-Auxin Response Factors (ARFs) module to activation of RSL4, which directly targets genes encoding ROS-producing enzymes, such as NADPH oxidases (or RBOHs) and secreted type-III peroxidases (PERs). Activation of these genes impacts apoplastic ROS homeostasis, thereby stimulating root hair cell elongation.
Gene-centric constraint of metabolic models
Authors: Fyson Nick , Kim Min Kyung , Lun Desmond S. , Colijn Caroline
Published: March 2017

Motivation

A number of approaches have been introduced in recent years allowing gene expression data to be integrated into the standard flux Balance Analysis (FBA) technique. This additional information permits greater accuracy in the prediction of intracellular fluxes, even when knowledge of the growth medium and biomass composition is incomplete, and allows exploration of organisms’ metabolism under wide-ranging conditions. However, existing techniques still focus on the reaction as the fundamental unit of their modelling. This carries the advantages of incorporating expression measurements, but discounts the fact that genes (and their associated proteins) may be involved in the catalysis of multiple reactions through the formation of alternative protein complexes.

Results

We demonstrate an approach focusing not on reactions or genes as the fundamental unit, but on the ‘Gene Complex’ (GC), a set of genes that is sufficient to catalyse a given reaction. We define expression-based limits in such a way that proteins cannot do ‘double duty’: no single molecule is permitted to contribute to the catalysis of more than one reaction at a time. Using experimentally determined RNA expression and intracellular fluxes, we validate this novel and more conceptually sound approach.

Availability and Implementation

An implementation of the GC-Fluxalgorithm is available as part of the Pyabolism python module.https://github.com/nickfyson/pyabolism

Contact

nickfyson@gmail.com
Random drift with a determined outcome: a parsimonious null model of Neanderthal replacement by modern humans via neutral species drift
Authors: Kolodny Oren , Feldman Marcus W.
Published: March 2017

The processes that led to the demise of the Neanderthals and their replacement by modern humans have been the object of speculation, research, and heated debate. Most hypotheses fall into one of two categories: one highlights the role of climate change, epidemics, or other environmental pressures in the Neanderthals’ demise, and the other attributes it to direct or indirect competition with modern humans, who seem to have occupied the same ecological niche. The latter are based on the assumption that modern humans benefited from some selective advantage over Neanderthals that led to the latter’s extinction. We show that a scenario that includes migration and selectively neutral species drift can explain the Neanderthals’ replacement and is in line with the archaeological evidence. Our model offers a parsimonious alternative to those that invoke external factors or selective advantage, and can represent a null hypothesis in assessing such alternatives. We show that for a wide range of parameters this hypothesis cannot be rejected. Moreover, we suggest that although selection and environmental factors may or may not have played a role in the interspecies dynamics of the Neanderthals and modern humans, the eventual outcome of these dynamics, the replacement of the Neanderthals, was the result of the hominid migration dynamics at the end of the middle Paleolithic, namely repeated migration of modern humans from Africa into the Levant and Europe.

Significance statement

Multiple factors have been proposed as possible drivers of the extinction of the Neanderthals and their replacement by modern humans circa 40,000 years ago: climate change, epidemics, and – most prominently – a selective advantage, such as superior cognitive capacity of modern humans over Neanderthals. We propose an alternative model that includes only migration of modern humans out of Africa into the Levant and Europe. We show that, given that the two species occupied a similar ecological niche, modern humans were destined to replace the Neanderthals even under a neutral scenario in which neither species has a selective advantage.
The protective association of endogenous immunoglobulins against sepsis mortality is restricted to patients with moderate organ failure
Authors: Martin-Loeches Ignacio , Muriel-Bombín Arturo , Ferrer Ricard , Artigas Antonio , Sole-Violan Jordi , Lorente Leonardo , Andaluz-Ojeda David , Prina-Mello Adriele , Herrán-Monge Ruben , Suberviola Borja , Rodriguez-Fernandez Ana , Merino Pedro , Loza Ana M , Garcia-Olivares Pablo , Anton Eduardo , Tamayo Eduardo , Trapiello Wysali , Blanco Jesús , Bermejo-Martin Jesús F ,   GRECIA Group
Published: March 2017

Background

pre-evaluation of endogenous immunoglobulin levels is a potential strategy to improve the results of intravenous immunoglobulins in sepsis, but more work has to be done to identify those patients who could benefit the most from this treatment. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of endogenous immunoglobulins on the mortality risk in sepsis depending on disease severity.

Methods

this was a retrospective observational study including 278 patients admitted to the ICU with sepsis fulfilling the SEPSIS-3 criteria, coming from the Spanish GRECIA and ABISS-EDUSEPSIS cohorts. Patients were distributed into two groups depending on their Sequential Organ Failure Assessment score al ICU admission (SOFA < 8, n = 122 and SOFA ≥ 8, n = 156) and the association between immunoglobulin levels at ICU admission with mortality was studied in each group by Kaplan Meier and multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results

ICU / hospital mortality in the SOFA < 8 group was 14.8% / 23.0%, compared to 30.1 % / 35.3% in the SOFA ≥ 8 group. In the group with SOFA < 8, the simultaneous presence of total IgG <407 mg/dl, IgM < 43 mg/dl and IgA < 219 mg/dl was associated to a reduction in the survival mean time of 6.6 days in the first 28 days, and was a robust predictor of mortality risk either during the acute and the post-acute phase of the disease (OR for ICU mortality: 13.79; OR for hospital mortality: 7.98). This predictive ability remained in the absence of prior immunosupression (OR for ICU mortality: 17.53; OR for hospital mortality: 5.63). Total IgG <407 mg/dl or IgG1 < 332 mg/dl was also an independent predictor of ICU mortality in this group. In contrast, in the SOFA ≥ 8 group, we found no immunoglobulin thresholds associated to neither ICU nor to hospital mortality.

Conclusions

endogenous immunoglobulin levels may have a different impact on the mortality risk of sepsis patients based on their severity. In patients with moderate organ failure, the simultaneous presence of low levels of IgG, IgA and IgM was a consistent predictor of both acute and post-acute mortality.
Sustaining Scholarly Infrastructures through Collective Action: The lessons that Olson can teach us
Authors: Neylon Cameron
Published: March 2017

Infrastructures for data, such as repositories, curation systems, aggregators, indexes and standards are public goods. This means that finding sustainable economic models to support them is a challenge. This is due to free-loading, where someone who does not contribute to the support of the infrastructure nonetheless gains the benefit of it. The work of Mancur Olson (1974) suggests there are only three ways to address this for large groups: compulsion (often as some form of taxation) to support the infrastructure; the provision of non-collective (club) goods limited to those who contribute as a side-effect of providing the collective good; or mechanisms that lower the effective number of participants in the negotiation (oligopoly).

In this paper I use Olson’s framework to analyze existing scholarly infrastructures and proposals for the sustainability of new infrastructures. I argue that the focus on sustainability models prior to seeking a set of agreed governance principles is the wrong approach. Rather we need to understand how to navigate from club-like to public-like goods. We need to define the communities that contribute and identify club-like benefits for those contributors. We need interoperable principles of governance and resourcing to provide public-like goods and we should draw on the political economics of taxation to develop this.
The physics of osmotic pressure
Authors: Bowler M. G.
Published: March 2017

The proper application of the virial theorem to the origin of osmotic pressure provides a simple, vivid and complete explanation of the physical processes involved; osmosis is driven by differential solvent pressures. This simple and intuitive notion is widely disregarded, but the virial theorem allows an exact formulation and unifies a number of different treatments. It is closely related to a kinetic treatment devised by Ehrenfest over 100 years ago.
A microbially derived tyrosine sulfated peptide mimics a plant peptide hormone
Authors: Pruitt Rory N. , Joe Anna , Zhang Weiguo , Feng Wei , Stewart Valley , Schwessinger Benjamin , Dinneny José R. , Ronald Pamela C.
Published: March 2017

The biotrophic pathogenXanthomonas oryzaepv.oryzae(Xoo) produces a sulfated peptide named RaxX, which shares similarity to peptides in the PSY (plant peptide containingsulfatedtyrosine) family. We hypothesize that RaxX functionally mimics the growth stimulating activity of PSY peptides.

Root length was measured in Arabidopsis and rice treated with synthetic RaxX peptides. We also used comparative genomic analysis and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) burst assay to evaluate the activity of RaxX and PSY peptides.

Here we found that a synthetic sulfated RaxX derivative comprising 13 residues (RaxX13-sY), highly conserved between RaxX and PSY, induces root growth in Arabidopsis and rice in a manner similar to that triggered by PSY. We identified residues that are required for activation of immunity mediated by the rice XA21 receptor but that are not essential for root growth induced by PSY. Finally, we showed that aXanthomonasstrain lackingraxXis impaired in virulence.

These findings suggest that RaxX serves as a molecular mimic of PSY peptides to facilitateXooinfection and that XA21 has evolved the ability to recognize and respond specifically to the microbial form of the peptide.
Chemical conditioning and monitoring to control and minimize chemistry-related damages in Heller dry cooled combined cycle power plants
Authors: Pourali Omid , Ghasemi Kadijani Hashem , Mohammadi Khangheshlaghi Farideh
Published: March 2017

Purpose

An effective chemical conditioning technique was successfully tested and investigated to control and minimize the chemistry-related damages within mixed metallurgy steam and water cycle of Heller dry cooled combined cycle power plants (CCPPs), in which cooling water and condensate are completely mixed in direct contact condenser. This study aims to perform a comprehensive experimental research in four mixed metallurgy steam and water cycle.

Design/methodology/approach

A comprehensive experimental study was carried out in four mixed metallurgy steam and water cycle fabricated with ferrous- and aluminum-based alloys which have various corrosion resistance capabilities in contact with water. Chemical conditioning was conducted using both volatile and non-volatile alkalizing agents, and, to perform chemical conditioning effectively, quality parameters (pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, sodium, silica, iron, aluminum and phosphate) were monitored by analyzing grab and online samples taken at eight key sampling points.

Findings

Results indicated that pH was the most critical parameter which was not mainly within the recommended ranges of widely used standards and guidelines at all key sampling points that generally increases the occurrence of chemistry-related damages. The other quality parameters were mostly satisfactory.

Originality/value

In this research, the development of a suitable chemical conditioning technique in mixed metallurgy steam and water cycle, fabricated with ferrous and aluminum-based alloys, was studied. The obtained results in this thorough research work was evaluated by comparison with the chemistry limits of the widely used standards and guidelines, and combined use of volatile and solid alkalizing agents was considered as a promising chemical conditioning technique for utilization in mixed metallurgy units of Heller dry cooled CCPPs.
Pitting behavior and mechanism caused by Ca-Al-O-S composite inclusions in low-alloy steels
Authors: Yi Fan , Qingfeng Wang , Wenxiu Yang
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to study the pitting caused by Ca-Al-O-S composite inclusions of low-alloy steel in 3 Wt.% NaCl solution and 0.01M NaHSO3 solution.

Design/methodology/approach

The corrosion in 0.01M NaHSO3 was much weaker than in 3 Wt.% NaCl 3D display of the pitting formation and development process that has been calculated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) and laser scanning confocal microscopy (LSCM). In addition, a corrosion mechanism of pitting formation by galvanic interaction of composite inclusion and base metal has been proposed.

Findings

Results show that in immersion test, metal base around inclusions was dissolved due to corrosion. Corrosion on the metal base closer to inclusions was more severe.

Originality/value

A corrosion mechanism of pitting formation by galvanic interaction of composite inclusion and base metal has been proposed.
Inhibitive action of tara tannin in rust converter formulation
Authors: Flores Merino Santiago , Caprari Juan José , Vasquez Torres Luis , Figueroa Ramos Luis , Hadzich Girola Antonella
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the ability of commercial tara powder to convert rust into iron tannate and evaluate their use as raw material for the formulation of water based rust converter.

Design/methodology/approach

Water-borne acrylic primers were formulated with tara powder and aqueous tara extract and applied on steel rusted by three different methods. The conversion of rusted steel by tara tannins was studied by X-ray diffraction spectroscopy, infrared spectroscopy and scanning electron microscopy. The acrylic primers, containing hydrolysable tannins, were coated with alkyd finish and were evaluated in comparison to commercial systems in accelerated corrosion tests. The corrosion inhibition effects of tara powder on mild steel in 0.1M NaCl were studied by DC electrochemical techniques.

Findings

Tara tannin converts rust to ferric tannate and increases the magnetite content of rusted steel. The water-based acrylic primer formulated with aqueous extract of tara, alkyd-coated finish, showed performance equivalent to pure alkyd system.

Research limitations/implications

The chlorides content in the commercial tara powder can be screened the beneficial effect of hydrolysable tannins to convert rust. Furthermore, the water-based rust converter formulated with acrylic resin may be sensitive to salt contamination of rust.

Originality/value

Hydrolysable tannins from commercial tara powder have not been studied yet in its application to the development of rust converters. A water-based primer formulated with commercial tara powder developed for the effective treatment of rusted surfaces can be of interest as an environmentally friendly to current commercial approaches.
The protection of TDPA deposited from mixed solutions with different water/ethanol ratios for aluminum alloy against corrosion in NaCl solution
Authors: Jun-e Qu , Geng Chen , Hai-ren Wang , Zhi-yong Cao
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of water content of assembly solution on the adsorption behavior and corrosion protection performance of 1–tetradecylphosphonic acid [TDPA, CH3(CH2)13P(O)(OH)2] films on aluminum alloy surface in NaCl solution.

Design/methodology/approach

Self-assembled monolayers (SAMs) of TDPA were prepared on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface in TDPA containing ethanol-water solutions with different water contents. The adsorption behavior of the SAMs on the alloy surface and their corrosion protection properties in a 3.5 per cent NaCl solution were characterized by potentiodynamic polarization scan, Fourier-transformed infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and atomic force microscopy (AFM).

Findings

The FTIR results demonstrated that the TDPA molecules were successfully adsorbed on the 2024 aluminum alloy surface, and the density of the SAMs increased with the increasing water content in the assembly solution. The electrochemical studies and corrosion morphologies observed by AFM showed that the optimal condition is 2 h of assembling in solution B or solution C. The corrosion inhibition efficiency values follow the order solution B ≈ solution C > solution A at the first 2 h assembly and solution B > solution C > solution A while the assembly time exceeded 2 h. The dependence of corrosion inhibition performance of the SAM on the water content and on the assembly time is related to the balancing of competition between TDPA adsorption and dissolution of the alloy oxidation film.

Originality/value

It illustrates potential application prospects of TDPA for surface treatment of aluminum alloy. Via the comparison with our previous work, this paper provides useful information regarding the difference of corrosion inhibition properties of organic phosphonic acid for aluminum alloy between in neutral and in acid solution.
Detection of SCC on 304 stainless steel in neutral thiosulfate solutions using electrochemical noise based on chaos theory
Authors: Zhao Ru , Xia Da-Hai , Song Shi-Zhe , Hu Wenbin
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the stress corrosion cracking (SCC) process of sensitized 304 stainless steel during the slow strain rate test by using the electrochemical noise (EN) technique.

Design/methodology/approach

EN data are interpreted based on chaos and wavelet analyses, and correlation dimension and wavelet energy distribution are used as indicators for SCC process identification.

Findings

Experimental results reveal that the corrosion potential abruptly decreases from 180 to 100 mV at 6,300 s and the current increases from 10 to 100 nA accordingly, which is attributed to passive film breakdown and crack initiation. Chaos and wavelet analyses results reveal that, as crack initiates, the correlation dimensions increase from 1.2 to 1.9, and the corresponding distribution frequencies of maximum relative wavelet energy change from high frequency to low frequency.

Originality/value

SCC is monitored in lab, and crack initiation and propagation are identified by chaos and wavelet analyses. This work lays the foundation for SCC detection in field using EN.
Effects of cold deformation on electrochemical corrosion behaviors of 304 stainless steel
Authors: Wang Jiamei , Zhang Le Fu
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of deformation-induced martensite on electrochemical corrosion behaviors of 304 austenitic stainless steel in a simulated primary water environment of a pressurized water reactor nuclear power plant with boric acid and lithium hydroxide contaminated with chloride by potentiodynamic polarization, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), Mott–Schotty curves and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).

Design/methodology/approach

The effects of deformation-induced martensite transformation on electrochemical corrosion behaviors of 304 austenitic stainless steel was investigated in a simulated primary water environment of a pressurized water reactor nuclear power plant with boric acid and lithium hydroxide contaminated with 0.1 M Cl− by potentiodynamic polarization, EIS, Mott–Schotty curves and XPS in this paper.

Findings

The results revealed that the martensitic phase contents increased with the level of cold deformation. The general corrosion current density and the corrosion potential increased and decreased, respectively, with the increase of cold deformation degree. However, the pitting potential decreased as the cold deformation increased up to 20 per cent, then a slight increase was observed at 35 per cent cold working. It was found from Mott–Schottky curves and XPS analysis that as the cold deformation degree increased from 0 to 35 per cent, the doping concentrations of the oxide films increased; however, the film thickness decreased, which indicates that both density and integrity of the films are degraded significantly as the deformation degree increases, and this ultimately contributes to the significant increment of the general corrosion rate and reduction of the pitting corrosion resistance.

Originality/value

The effects of deformation-induced martensite transformation on electrochemical corrosion behaviors of 304 austenitic stainless steel was investigated in a simulated primary water environment of a pressurized water reactor nuclear power plant with boric acid and lithium hydroxide contaminated with 0.1 M Cl− by potentiodynamic polarization, EIS, Mott–Schotty curves and XPS in this paper.
Investment decisions and bank loan contracting
Authors: Ge Wenxia , Kang Tony , Lobo Gerald J. , Song Byron Y.
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how a firm’s investment behavior relates to its subsequent bank loan contracting.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a sample of US firms during the period 1992-2011, the authors examine the association between overinvestment (underinvestment) and three characteristics of bank loan contracts: loan spread, collateral requirement, and loan maturity.

Findings

The authors find that overinvesting firms obtain loans with higher loan spreads. Additional tests show that the effect of overinvestment on loan spreads is generally more pronounced in firms with lower reputation, weaker shareholder rights, and lower institutional ownership. The effect of overinvestment on collateral requirement is mixed, and investment efficiency has no significant relation to loan maturity.

Research limitations/implications

The results are subject to the following caveats. First, while the study provides empirical evidence that investment efficiency affects bank loan contracting terms, especially the cost of bank loans, the underlying theory is not well-developed. The authors leave it up to future research to provide a theoretical framework to clearly distinguish the cash flow and credit risk effects of past investment behavior from those of existing agency conflicts. Second, due to data limitation, the sample size is small, especially when the authors control for corporate governance measured byG-indexand institutional ownership.

Practical implications

The finding that overinvestment is costly to corporations suggests that managers should consider the potential trade-offs from such investment decisions carefully. The evidence also alerts shareholders and board members to the importance of monitoring management investment decisions. In addition, the authors find that corporate governance moderates the relationship between investment decisions and cost of bank loans, suggesting that it would be beneficial to design effective governance mechanisms to prevent management from empire building and motivate managers to pursue efficient investment strategies.

Originality/value

First, the findings enhance understanding of the potential economic consequences of overinvestment decisions in the context of a firm’s private debt contracting. The evidence suggests that lenders perceive higher credit risk from overinvestment than from underinvestment, likely because firms squander cash in the current period by investing in (negative net present value) projects that are likely to result in future cash flow problems. Second, the study contributes to the literature on the determinants of bank loans by identifying an observable empirical proxy for uncertainty in future cash flows that increases credit risk.
Regulatory enforcement, financial reporting quality and investment efficiency: a pitch
Authors: Nguyen Nhut (Nick) Hoang , Truong Thu Phuong
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to apply the pitching research template developed by Faff (2015, 2016) to a research project on regulatory enforcement, financial reporting quality and investment efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors begin this paper by giving a brief commentary on using the pitching research template to identify the core elements of the research project. They will then describe their personal reflections on the pitch exercise itself.

Findings

The authors have found that the pitch exercise itself is an excellent way to clearly and efficiently present and communicate their thoughts on the research project with their co-authors in particular and other researchers in general.

Originality/value

The pitching research template developed by Faff (2015, 2016) is an interesting and effective tool to start a research journey in a straightforward and simple way to avoid unnecessary deviation from the planned research direction.
A longitudinal study of voluntary disclosure quality in the annual reports of innovative firms
Authors: Lim Si Jie , White Gregory , Lee Alina , Yuningsih Yuni
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to measure mean voluntary intellectual capital disclosure (ICD) quality score for a sample of Australian Stock Exchange-listed biotechnology firms in the 2003, 2006 and 2010 reporting periods. The aim was to use data for the same companies over the whole period to discover whether the quality of voluntary reporting practice was improving over time, measuring lagged-mean ICD quality score against possible determinants of management disclosure practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Mean ICD quality score, and associated frequency data, was measured against possible determinants of managers’ disclosure practice. The dependent variable was an 18-item classification of ICD based on Sveiby’s Intangible Assets Monitor (Sveiby, 1997). Data collected from S&P Capital IQ database were used to compare ICD disclosure quality with possible drivers: competition (capital intensity); performance (profit and market returns); monitoring (audit firm and ownership); and control variables (revenue and leverage).

Findings

Mean voluntary disclosures of internal capital and external capital lower the quality over time using paired sample t-test comparison against 2003 as a base year. The lowest quality disclosure was about human capital, and the highest quality was about internal capital. Individual disclosure items within internal, external and human capital classification showed that internal capital items (intellectual property, corporate culture, management processes and financial relations) and external capital item (customers) were the significant contributors. Investigation of drivers using Spearman’s correlation against lagged ICD data showed that performance (relative market returns) and monitoring (ownership diffusion) were significant drivers of voluntary ICD, both in expected and unexpected ways.

Originality/value

Voluntary ICD quality and quantity are rarely measured in the same paper. The findings are unique and interesting especially for innovative Australian R&D firms when compared to recent findings for a larger sample of French companies.
XBRL and the qualitative characteristics of useful financial information
Authors: Birt Jacqueline L. , Muthusamy Kala , Bir Poonam
Published: March 2017

Purpose

eXtensible Business Reporting Language (XBRL) is an internet-based interactive form of reporting language that is expected to enhance the usefulness of financial reporting (Yuan and Wang, 2009). In the UK and the USA, XBRL is mandatory, and in Australia, it is voluntarily adopted. It has been reported that in the not too distant future, XBRL will be the standard format for the preparation and exchange of business reports (Gettler, 2015). Using an experimental approach, this study assesses the usefulness of financial reports with XBRL tagged information compared to PDF format information for non-professional investors. The authors investigate participants’ perceptions of usefulness in relation to the qualitative characteristics of relevance, understandability and comparability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses an experimental approach featuring a profit-forecasting task to determine if participants perceive XBRL-tagged information to be more useful compared to PDF-formatted information.

Findings

Results reveal that financial information presented with XBRL tagging is significantly more relevant, understandable and comparable to non-professional investors.

Originality/value

The authors address a gap in the literature by examining XBRL usefulness in Australia where XBRL adoption will be mandated within the not too distant future. Currently, the voluntary adoption of XBRL by preparers and users is low, possibly, because of a lack of awareness about XBRL and its potential benefits. This study yields significant implications for the accounting regulators in creating more awareness on the benefits of using XBRL and to create an impetus for XBRL adoption.
Comparative analyses of competitive advantage using Porter diamond model (the case of MSMEs in Himachal Pradesh)
Authors: Kharub Manjeet , Sharma Rajiv
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure and analyze the competitive advantage of micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) based upon the Porter’s diamond framework. The major objective is to contribute toward better understanding of various determinants of the diamond model in context within Indian MSMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

Extent review of the literature has been done to identify various critical factors contributing to developing a competitive advantage. Exploratory factor analysis and internal consistency tests were performed to verify scales validity and reliability of measuring instrument (questionnaire). In research design, a case study approach has been used, in which MSMEs operating in the pharmaceutical, electrical and electronics, automobile, food and textile sectors were considered.

Findings

Study findings indicate that the pharmaceutical sector is more competitive followed by food (112.491) as revealed by the high value of surface area i.e. 150.931. The competitiveness among MSME sectors is mostly affected by demand conditions followed by firm strategy, structure and rivalry. Moreover, the score of diamond axes indicates significant difference with respect to determinants. For instance, in the textile sector, the determinants such as factor conditions and related and supporting industries scored low, for example, 4.710 and 4.280, respectively, which indicates it needs to be strengthened as this sector stands at last position with minimum surface area, for example, 67.398.

Research limitations/implications

Owing to the time and resource constraints, this study was conducted in MSMEs situated in the state of Himachal Pradesh, India, and thus generalizations of results are rather limited.

Practical implications

This study is one of the original being undertaken by authors which helps to underline the importance of various determinants which may help the MSME units to improve competitiveness by implementing effective competitive strategies. The study could be extended to other regions of the country.

Originality/value

This study is a result of extended research on competitiveness and provides an instrument to measure firm ability to be competitive. CEO’s, managers and policy makers from industries as well as government will be able to use this to evaluate their competitive positioning and identify key problem areas which required improvements.
Enhancing dynamism in clusters
Authors: Morgulis-Yakushev Sergey , Sölvell Örjan
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper empirically aims to examine the relationship between collaboration initiatives of cluster organizations (COs) and improved innovation and financial performance among cluster firms. Moreover, the paper proposes a method for the development of cluster initiatives and evaluating their performance.

Design/methodology/approach

COs in North Mid Sweden have been studied between 2005 and 2014, where 12 COs have focused on collaboration, ranging from process industries, such as forestry, paper and steel, to tourism and information and computer technology (ICT). A survey method was used to collect data for some 1,000 firms engaging in cluster activities. A new method of analysis, which associates initiatives of COs with cluster members’ innovation and financial performance, has been developed and used in the paper.

Findings

The paper finds that cluster initiatives (enhancing collaboration across different types of actors in clusters) improve innovation and financial performance among involved cluster firms. But the effect of the cluster initiatives depends, to a large degree, on the policy of the CO. Results show large differences in performance among cluster initiatives, leaving room for the benchmarking and cross-cluster learning.

Practical implications

The new method proposed in this paper can help to formulate and implement cluster initiatives. Evaluation of COs can be improved through the new method.

Originality/value

The major contribution of this work is the association of CO initiatives with the performance of cluster member firms. Additionally, this work provides a new statistical instrument for assessing the impact of cluster initiatives on cluster members’ performance.
Self-censorship on large corporations in SNS: the effect of news exposure, knowledge, and perceived power
Authors: Byeon Sangho , Chung Sungeun , Jin Borae
Published: March 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether citizens censor their own expressions regarding large corporations in social networking sites (SNS) and how self-censorship is associated with the perceived power of, knowledge about and media exposure about large corporations.

Design/methodology/approach

A nationwide survey was conducted in South Korea (N= 455). The data were analyzed with structural equation modeling.

Findings

As exposure to news about large corporations increased, the degree of self-censorship regarding large corporations increased. This effect of media exposure on self-censorship was mediated by the amount of knowledge about large corporations and the perceived power of large corporations.

Research limitations/implications

Although this study focused on the SNS context, the results of this study cannot provide the features of the self-censorship process that are distinct in SNS compared to other contexts. Although a causal model was provided based on theoretical reasoning, the nature of the data is correlational. Thus, one should be cautious when interpreting the results.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that, while establishing privacy protection policies with regard to the SNS, policy makers need to consider how to prevent invasion of privacy and misuse of personal data by large corporations, interest groups and the unspecified public.

Originality/value

This study extends the literature related to self-censorship by identifying the effects of economic power and the psychological factors involved in self-censorship.
The impact of risk management on the frequency of supply chain disruptions
Authors: Revilla Elena , Saenz Maria Jesus
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a taxonomy of how companies implement Supply Chain Risk Management (SCRM) in terms of two fundamental approaches: the first emerging from internal actions and operations within companies, and the other involving inter-organizational actions undertaken with external supply chain partners. This taxonomy aims to predict firms’ performance with regard to the frequency of supply chain disruption.

Design/methodology/approach

A cluster analysis of survey data from 908 firms representing 69 countries together with an analysis of variance.

Findings

The authors’ analysis demonstrates a clear structure of four different patterns of how companies manage supply chain risks: passive, internal, collaborative, and integral. The authors found that firms pursuing an inter-organizational orientation (collaborative and integral) face the lowest levels of supply chain disruption. On the contrary, strategies which simply concentrate on having greater control of internal operations are not vigorous enough to stop the cascade effect of a disruption at the supply chain level. Furthermore, the excellent performance of integral SCRM strategies also suggests that collaboration between buyers and suppliers ensures the efficacy of internal business continuity plans and security procedures.

Practical implications

Managers should play an active role in making sure that supply chain management and risk management disciplines evolve together. Obviously, when an exogenous event results in a supply chain disruption, a firm will try to put its operations under control through internal capabilities. But SCRM strategies designed proactively in advance with relevant partners are even more beneficial.

Originality/value

First, previous studies have limited the analysis of SCRM mainly to its reactive internal initiatives within a firm. This paper takes the SCRM literature beyond the internal focus by considering both internal and inter-organizational efforts and, more importantly, developing a single configurational model to analyze modes of interaction. Second, there is little empirical evidence showing the current situation of SCRM. Research in SCRM has been more qualitative than empirical, especially in global coverage. The research tackles this gap and, based on a broader scope of the samples the empirical findings show a higher level of generalizability.
Investigating logistics service quality in omni-channel retailing
Authors: Murfield Monique , Boone Christopher A. , Rutner Paige , Thomas Rodney
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of logistics service quality (LSQ) on consumer satisfaction and loyalty in an omni-channel retail environment.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical, survey-based approach is used to collect data from consumers about experiences with two different omni-channel retail scenarios: buy-online-pickup-in-store (BOPS), and buy-in-store-ship-direct (BSSD). Participants responded to questions regarding the LSQ, consumer satisfaction, and consumer loyalty relative to their actual experience in one of these situations.

Findings

Results suggest that omni-channel consumers are truly unique, and all three dimensions of LSQ (condition, availability, and timeliness) are distinct in their impact on satisfaction and loyalty. Results suggest that in the BOPS sample, consumer satisfaction partially mediates the relationship between condition and loyalty and fully mediates the relationship between timeliness and loyalty. In the BSSD model, consumer satisfaction partially mediates the relationship between timeliness and consumer loyalty.

Research limitations/implications

This research studies LSQ in two different omni-channel scenarios; additional research is needed to explore other omni-channel scenarios and extend the findings to be more generalizable.

Practical implications

Managers should recognize that for omni-channel consumers, timeliness is the essential driver of satisfaction and loyalty. Retailers need to account for this reality and dedicate substantial resources to meet delivery requirements in a timely manner. Logistics service providers need to emphasize speed and reliability of their delivery processes for omni-channel consumers.

Originality/value

This research is the first attempt at conceptualizing LSQ in an omni-channel supply chain, and testing the impact of LSQ on consumer satisfaction and loyalty.
COO vs ROO: importance of the origin in customer preferences towards financial entities
Authors: García-Gallego José Manuel , Chamorro Mera Antonio
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the importance that customers give to the origin attribute when selecting a financial entity compared to other features directly related to the service that these institutions provide. In addition, this study aims at analysing what level of brand origin provides a greater utility for customers in their preference structure: regional, national or foreign.

Design/methodology/approach

The technique of conjoint analysis is applied via a survey of 427 customers to determine customers’ preference structure when choosing a financial entity.

Findings

Of particular note among the main results is the great importance the respondents give to the origin of the entity, preferring regional over national or foreign institutions. The existence of three different segments of customers based on their preference structure is also a remarkable result.

Research limitations/implications

Place-of-origin effect is not universal. Due to this fact, the results of the studies focussed on this research topic are difficult to extrapolate to other geographical areas.

Practical implications

The current situation in southern Europe financial sector obliges many small financial entities to undertake mergers in order to face the stability and solvency policies established by European Central Bank. In this sense, these institutions must decide whether or not to maintain their regional brand identity. The results of this study show the appropriateness of maintaining and communicating the regional origin of the entities. These findings will contribute to guiding decision making on brand management for financial entities.

Originality/value

To the best of the knowledge, there is a lack of research on the place-of-origin through different levels simultaneously. This paper provides a starting point for further research about this effect in the services sector.
Country of origin effects in international marketing channels
Authors: Moon Byeong-Joon , Oh Han-Mo
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an understanding of the country-of-origin (COO) effect on overseas distributors’ behaviour in international marketing channels. Integrating the theory of planned behaviour (TPB) and the concepts of country-induced biases, the current study develops an empirically testable model that explains and predicts overseas distributors’ behaviour in international marketing channels.

Design/methodology/approach

Hypotheses were tested using primary data stemmed from a survey of channel relationships between exporters and their overseas distributors. Data were collected from 103 distributors in the USA.

Findings

Empirical evidence shows that attitude towards foreign brands, social valuation of the origin of brands, and perceived behavioural control affect overseas distributors’ intention to place foreign brands. In addition, country-induced bias factors – buyer animosity and country-related affect to the origin of manufacture – are considered to be the antecedents of attitude towards foreign brands.

Research limitations/implications

Because this study adopted a cross-sectional design, the limitations of this method can be applied to the study. In addition, because of the research context, the results of the present research may lack generalizability. This manuscript, however, integrated the TPB and the concepts of country-induced biases and addressed the calls for research on the COO effects on overseas distributors’ decision in international marketing channels.

Practical implications

The manuscript suggests that to build positive attitudes towards foreign brands, a firm should focus on promotions through various media in international markets to lower animosity and the perceived risk to the origin of manufacture. In addition, firms with foreign brands need to identify and target a segment that feels comfortable about spending their resources on those brands. Finally, international marketers should focus on creating positive attitudes towards foreign brand goods and proper pricing strategies.

Originality/value

This manuscript fills the knowledge gap of the COO effect on organizational buyer behaviour in international marketing channels.
The effect of COO on retail buyers’ propensity to trial new products
Authors: Reardon James , Vianelli Donata , Miller Chip
Published: March 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to theorize country-of-origin (COO) to be important to retail buyers in making purchase decisions. However, this question has not been addressed in the literature and leaves a critical gap in determining how COO ultimately affects consumer purchase options.

Design/methodology/approach

Retail buyer behavior is empirically tested with both premium and value brands from Italy. A sample retail buyers was taken from a LexisNexis database and provided 205 completed surveys. Construct scales were taken from existing literature and tested using composite reliability. SEM was used to analyze the data.

Findings

Results showed that retail buyers are affected by COO; that low involvement purchases are not differentially affected compared to high involvement; product typicality enhances likelihood of purchase and this typicality is more important for high involvement goods.

Practical implications

Retail buyers are affected by COO and will make product choices for their stores accordingly. Companies should be aware of this and take it into consideration to strengthen their acceptance by retail buyers. Trade organizations within countries may consider advertising approaches to distinguish themselves and stimulate positive COO among retail buyers.

Originality/value

This is the first time that retail buyer behavior has been studied with regard to COO effects using consumer models. Results showed that use of these models is more appropriate than only using industrial buying models. Retail buyers are found to indeed be affected by COO, which in turn influence buying choices for consumers and offerings from retailers.