bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expressed Exome Capture Sequencing (EecSeq): a method for cost-effective exome sequencing for all organisms with or without genomic resources
Authors: Puritz Jonathan B. , Lotterhos Katie E
Published: November 2017

Exome capture is an effective tool for surveying the genome for loci under selection. However, traditional methods require annotated genomic resources. Here, we present a method for creating cDNA probes from expressed mRNA, which are then used to enrich and capture genomic DNA for exon regions. This approach, called “EecSeq”, eliminates the need for costly probe design and synthesis. We tested EecSeq in the eastern oyster, Crassostrea virginica, using a controlled exposure experiment. Four adult oysters were heat shocked at 36° C for 1 hour along with four control oysters kept at 14° C. Stranded mRNA libraries were prepared for two individuals from each treatment and pooled. Half of the combined library was used for probe synthesis and half was sequenced to evaluate capture efficiency. Genomic DNA was extracted from all individuals, enriched via captured probes, and sequenced directly. We found that EecSeq had an average capture sensitivity of 86.8% across all known exons and had over 99.4% sensitivity for exons with detectable levels of expression in the mRNA library. For all mapped reads, over 47.9% mapped to exons and 37.0% mapped to expressed targets, which is similar to previously published exon capture studies. EecSeq displayed relatively even coverage within exons (i.e. minor “edge effects”) and even coverage across exon GC content. We discovered 5,951 SNPs with a minimum average coverage of 80X, with 3,508 SNPs appearing in exonic regions. We show that EecSeq provides comparable, if not superior, specificity and capture efficiency compared to costly, traditional methods.
Neuronal resonance in the theta (4-10 Hz) frequency range is modulated by dynamic changes in the input resistance
Authors: Vera Jorge , Pereira Ulises , Reynaert Bryan , Bacigalupo Juan , Sanhueza Magdalena
Published: November 2017

Most neurons of the mammalian brain display intrinsic resonance with frequency selectivity (fR) for inputs within the theta-range (4-10 Hz). Variations in network oscillation along this range depend on the animal behavior; however, whether neurons can dynamically tune their fR has not been addressed. Using slice electrophysiology, dynamic clamping and computer modeling we studied three types of cortical neurons, finding that the input resistance (Rin) inversely sets fR into the theta range, following a power law. We demonstrate that physiological changes in Rin modulate fR and response phase, serving as a mechanism that instantaneously tunes oscillatory responses. Moreover, these modulations are translated into spiking regimes, modifying spike frequency and timing. Since synaptic inputs reduce Rin, this modulation provides a mean for adjusting the frequency and timing of firing of individual neurons in interplay with the network fluctuations. This might be a widespread property among resonant neurons.
Allosteric effects in catalytic impaired variants of the enzyme cyclophilin A may be explained by changes in nano-microsecond time scale motions
Authors: Wapeesittipan Pattama , Mey Antonia S. J. S. , Walkinshaw Malcolm D. , Michel Julien
Published: November 2017

There is much debate about the mechanisms by which molecular motions influence catalysis in enzymes. This work investigates the connection between stochastic protein dynamics and function for the enzyme cyclophilin A (CypA) in wild-type (WT) form, and three variants that features several mutations that are distal from the active site. Previous biophysical studies have suggested that conformational exchange between a ‘major’ active and a ‘minor’ inactive state on millisecond time scales plays a key role in catalysis for CypA. Here this hypothesis was addressed by a variety of molecular dynamic (MD) simulation techniques. The simulations reproduce X-ray crystallography derived evidence for a shift in populations of major and minor active site conformations between the wild-type and mutant forms. Strikingly, exchange between these active site conformations occurs at a rate that is 5 to 6 orders of magnitude faster than previously proposed. Further analyses indicate that the minor active site conformation is catalytically impaired, and that decreased catalytic activity of the mutants may be explained by changes in Phe113 motions on a ns-μs time scale. Therefore previously described millisecond time scale motions may not be necessary to explain allosteric effects in CypA mutants.
Crystal structure of SAM-dependent methyltransferase from Pyrococcus horikoshii
Authors: Pampa K. J. , Madan Kumar S. , Hema M. K. , Kumara Karthik , Naveen S. , Kunishima Naoki , Lokanath N. K.
Published: November 2017

Methyltransferases (MTs) are enzymes involved in methylation that are needed to perform cellular processes such as biosynthesis, metabolism, gene expression, protein trafficking and signal transduction. The cofactor S-adenosyl-L-methionine (SAM) is used for catalysis by SAM-dependent methyltransferases (SAM-MTs). The crystal structure of Pyrococcus horikoshii SAM-MT was determined to a resolution of 2.1 Å using X-ray diffraction. The monomeric structure consists of a Rossmann-like fold (domain I) and a substrate-binding domain (domain II). The cofactor (SAM) molecule binds at the interface between adjacent subunits, presumably near to the active site(s) of the enzyme. The observed dimeric state might be important for the catalytic function of the enzyme.
The Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae chemoreceptor protein F (PscF) periplasmic sensor domain: cloning, purification and X-ray crystallographic analysis
Authors: Oulavallickal Tifany , Brewster Jodi L. , McKellar James L. O. , Fairhurst Michael J. , Tenci Nicholas A. , Gerth Monica L.
Published: November 2017

Nitrate- and nitrite-sensing (NIT) domains are found associated with a wide variety of bacterial receptors, including chemoreceptors. However, the structure of a chemoreceptor-associated NIT domain has not yet been characterized. Recently, a chemoreceptor named PscF was identified from the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae that is predicted to contain a periplasmic NIT domain. The PscF sensor domain (PscF-SD; residues 42–332) was cloned into an appropriate expression vector, recombinantly produced in Escherichia coli BL21-Gold(DE3) cells and purified via immobilized metal-affinity and size-exclusion chromatography. Purified PscF-SD was screened for crystallization; the best crystal diffracted to a maximum resolution of 1.46 Å in space group P212121. However, the data could not be phased using the only available NIT-domain structure (Klebsiella oxytoca NasR; PDB entry 4akk) as the search model. Therefore, a data set from a selenomethionine-labelled protein crystal was also collected. The selenomethionine-labelled protein crystal diffracted to a resolution of 2.46 Å in space group P212121. These data will be used to attempt to solve the structure using the single-wavelength anomalous diffraction technique. The structure is expected to provide insights into the ligand specificity of NIT domains and the role of NIT domains in chemotaxis.
The impact of food preservation on food waste
Authors: Martindale Wayne , Schiebel Walter
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate the relationship between food preservation and reducing consumer waste is of value in developing sustainable meal options. The research reports insights into Austrian marketplace for frozen and fresh foods that have been obtained from a consumer survey.

Design/methodology/approach

The consumer survey methodologies indicate how preservation can change meal planning and lower food waste across frozen and fresh and ambient food purchases using freezing preservation methods.

Findings

The results show food waste can be reduced by six-fold when frozen foods are compared with fresh foods.

Research limitations/implications

This study highlights the requirement for a greater understanding of the probability that specific foods will be wasted with respect to the frequency of purchase. This is a limitation of the current study that has been investigated by other researchers.

Practical implications

This research has enabled the identification of different food waste amounts for different food product categories. The data presented could be used to guide food product development so that less consumer waste is produced.

Social implications

The research suggests a decision matrix approach can be used to can guide new product development and a model of this matrix is presented so that it may provide fit-for-purpose food preservation options for consumers.

Originality/value

This paper will continue to highlight the overlooked value of food preservation during processing and manufacturing of foods and their preparation in households.
What do students think of self-determined learning in entrepreneurship education?
Authors: Kapasi Isla , Grekova Galina
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the perceptions and perspectives of students with regards to self-determined learning in an entrepreneurship education (EE) context and its potential contribution to employability.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used a mixed-methods approach with a sample of 25 students currently attending a UK higher education institute. The students had access to participation in EE modules but self-determined learning-informed modules or programmes were not currently offered. Students were invited to attend focus groups and as a result of emergent themes, a business school-wide survey was developed.

Findings

This research makes two tentative contributions to the EE field. First, the findings of this student cohort are similar to those found throughout the UK and the EU with regard to the perception of the value of a degree by students; its contribution to the hidden curriculum; and the importance of practical experience. The research also adds to the field by considering the value of a self-determined learning approach to developing the capabilities and competencies of graduates. This approach to learning in a context of EE was in general well received by potential students, particularly the applied aspect of the programme. However, there is a perception of risk about this approach to learning and students are concerned about the value of a programme like this to employers in general.

Originality/value

The study contributes to discussions on the value of EE on perceived employability and in particular self-determined learning through entrepreneurship activity.
Understanding international location decisions of poverty alleviation non-profit organizations
Authors: Sirisena Amila Buddhika , Shneor Rotem
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Despite the growing numbers of internationally active nonprofit organizations (NPOs), research on various facets of NPOs’ internationalization has been limited. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of target-country related factors on international market selection of NPOs.

Design/methodology/approach

Analysis is based on a logistic regression procedure using a self-compiled data set of 2,440 observations of de-facto entry or non-entry occurrences made by 19 large development-focused NPOs.

Findings

The study reveals that NPOs select target markets that are less developed, characterized by greater risk profiles, where other NPOs tend to cluster, and those that are preferred by their home-country governments. Moreover, findings suggest that with respect to institutional strength, NPOs balance mission to help strengthen institutions where needed, and avoidance of environments with extremely dysfunctional institutions, hence opting to operate in environments with medium levels of institutional strength.

Research limitations/implications

The study only looked at external environmental factors, it must be acknowledged that a more complete understanding of NPO market selection decisions must also include variables internal to the organization. Further the study is based on a sample of NPOs dealing with poverty alleviation, which limits the generalization. Finally, the use of data from secondary sources creates its own limitations.

Originality/value

This study represents one of the few cross country studies done on the area, thus contributing for the development of the field.
Film thickness formation in nanoscale due to effects of elastohydrodynamic, electrostatic and surface force of solvation and van der Waals
Authors: Abd Alsamieh Mohamed
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this is to study the mechanism of an oil film thickness formation in the nanoscale. A polar lubricant of propylene carbonate is used as the intervening liquid between contiguous bodies in concentrated contacts. A pressure caused by the hydrodynamic viscous action in addition to the double-layer electrostatic force, van der Waals inter-molecular forces and solvation pressure owing to inter-surface forces is considered when calculating the ultrathin lubricating films.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Newton–Raphson iteration technique applied for the convergence of the hydrodynamic pressure, a numerical solution has been ascertained.

Findings

The results show that, at separations beyond about five molecular diameters of the intervening liquid, the formation of a lubricant film thickness is governed by the combined effects of viscous action and surface force of an attractive van der Waals force and a repulsive double-layer force. At smaller separations below five molecular diameters of the intervening liquid, the effect of the solvation force is dominant in determining the oil film thickness.

Originality/value

This paper fulfils an identified need to study the behavior of polar lubricants in concentrated contacts in ultrathin conjunctions. The effect of the hydrodynamic action, electrostatic force and surface action of van der Waals and solvation forces is considered when calculating the lubricant oil film thickness.
Effect of recess depth on lubrication performance of annular recess hydrostatic thrust bearing by constant rate flow
Authors: Shao Jun-peng , Liu Guang-dong , Yu Xiao-dong , Zhang Yan-qin , Meng Xiu-li , Jiang Hui
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe a simulation and experimental research concerning the effect of recess depth on the lubrication performance of a hydrostatic thrust bearing by constant rate flow.

Design/methodology/approach

The computational fluid dynamics and finite volume method have been used to compute the lubrication characteristics of an annular recess hydrostatic thrust bearing with different recess depths. The performances are oil recess pressure, oil recess temperature and oil film velocity. The recess depth has been optimized. A test rig is established for testing the pressure field of the structure of hydrostatic thrust bearing after recess depth optimization, and experimental results show that experimental data are basically identical with the simulation results, which demonstrates the validity of the proposed numerical simulation method.

Findings

The results demonstrate that the oil film temperature decreases and the oil film pressure first increases and then decreases with an increase in the recess depth, but oil film velocity is constant. To sum up comprehensive lubrication performance, the recess depth of 3.5 mm is its optimal value for the annular recess hydrostatic thrust bearing.

Originality/value

The computed results indicate that to get an improved performance from a constant flow hydrostatic thrust bearing, a proper selection of the recess depth is essential.
Matching the relationship between rotational speed and load-carrying capacity on high-speed and heavy-load hydrostatic thrust bearing
Authors: Yu Xiao-dong , Geng Lei , Zheng Xiao-jun , Wang Zi-xuan , Wu Xiao-gang
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Rotational speed and load-carrying capacity are two mutual coupling factors which affect high precision and stable operation of a hydrostatic thrust bearing. The purpose of this paper is to study reasonable matching relationship between the rotational speed and the load-carrying capacity.

Design/methodology/approach

A mathematical model of relationship between the rotational speed and the load-carrying capacity of the hydrostatic bearing with double-rectangle recess is set up on the basis of the tribology theory and the lubrication theory, and the load and rotational speed characteristics of an oil film temperature field and a pressure field in the hydrostatic bearing are analyzed, reasonable matching relationship between the rotational speed and the load-carrying capacity is deduced and a verification experiment is conducted.

Findings

By increasing the rotational speed, the oil film temperature increases, the average pressure decreases and the load-carrying capacity decreases. By increasing the load-carrying capacity, the oil film temperature and the average pressure increases and the rotational speed decreases; corresponding certain reasonable matching values are available.

Originality/value

The load-carrying capacity can be increased and the rotational speed improved by means of reducing the friction area of the oil recess by using low-viscosity lubricating oil and adding more oil film clearance; but, the stiffness of the hydrostatic bearing decreases.
Tribological characterization on friction brake in continuous braking
Authors: Bao Jiusheng , Yin Yan , Lu Lijian , Liu Tonggang
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to establish an effective method for characterizing the tribological properties of friction brakes during continuous braking because they have direct influences on the reliable operation of transport vehicles and industrial equipments.

Design/methodology/approach

First, tribological tests were carried out with the X-DM type friction tester, and changing curves of friction coefficient and temperature were obtained. Second, a novel tribological characteristic parameter set characterizing the tribological properties of brake pair in continuous braking was extracted from some important experimental data such as friction coefficient, wear rate and temperature. Finally, the influence of law and mechanism of braking number on dynamic tribological parameters was studied through continuous braking experiments.

Findings

The extracted tribological characteristic parameter set includes two subsets: dynamic characteristic parameter subset and overall characteristic parameter subset, which is composed of ten parameters: dynamic parameters of friction coefficient (including average, trend coefficient and stability coefficient), dynamic wear rate, dynamic average temperature, dynamic temperature rise, overall average friction coefficient, overall wear rate, overall average temperature and overall temperature rise.

Originality/value

Conclusively, the novel tribological characteristic parameter set is more comprehensive and objective, and it can provide a theoretical basis for the study of tribological properties in continuous braking.
Dynamic analysis of a tapered roller bearing
Authors: Deng Sier , Gu Jinfang , Cui Yongcun , Zhang Wenhu
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the roller dynamic characteristics and cage whirling of tapered roller bearing considering roller tilt and skew which provide a theoretical basis for the design and application of tapered roller bearing.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on rolling bearing dynamic analysis, the dynamic differential equations of tapered roller bearing are established. Fine integral method and predict correct Adams–Bashforth–Moulton multi-step method are used to solve the dynamic differential equations of tapered roller bearings.

Findings

Friction at the flange contact between roller and large flange is the chief factor of roller skew. In comparison to cone speed, axial loads have more visible effect on roller skew, and proper speed or axial load is beneficial to sustain cage motion and decrease cage instability. Under the combined effort of axial load and radial load, the distribution of roller skew is correlated to the roller-flange contact load. In addition, roller skew angle in loaded zone is larger than that in unloaded zone; hence, it is helpful for cage stability if an extent radial load is applied. The pocket clearance of cage has very small influence on roller skew; therefore, a reasonable pocket clearance is suggested to assure minimum instability of cage. Friction coefficient of flange contact has a large effect on roller skew, and cage whirl is found to demonstrate a circular orbit with increasing friction coefficient.

Originality/value

The dynamic differential equations of tapered roller bearing considering roller large end/inner ring back face rib contact under various lubrication states were established. The impact of flange friction working conditions and cage pocket clearance on cage instability and roller skew were focused on. It is the first time that the ratio of the standard deviation of the cage-center translational speed to its mean value is used to access the instability of cage in tapered roller bearing.
Contradictory results on the mediating roles of two dimensions of trust between transformational leadership and employee outcomes
Authors: Hussain Saddam , Shujahat Muhammad , Malik Muhammad Imran , Iqbal Sadia , Mir Faisal Nawaz
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the mediating roles of cognitive and affective trusts between the transformational leadership (TL) and employee outcomes (task performance (TP), organizational commitment (OC), and employee turnover intention (ET)).

Design/methodology/approach

This study samples 384 bank employees and records their self-reported responses for closed-ended items in the survey. SmartPLS 3.0 is used for the analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that affective trust (AT) and cognitive trust (CT) mediate between the transformation leadership and OC positively. Moreover, AT and CT both mediate negatively between TL and TP. Finally, both dimensions of trust as second-order constructs mediate positively between the TL and ET. The results related to the ET and TP are highly intriguing and in conflict with the simple and non-contextual statement of the social exchange theory.

Practical implications

TL, AT, and CT have greater importance for the managers to increase the positive work-related outcomes of employees. Moreover, the results related to TP and ETs are highly applicable to the managers and business.

Originality/value

The originality of the study lies in use of the SmartPLS 3.0 for analysis as it offers unique and precise measures of the measurement model like HTMT ratio and does not rely on the co-variance. Moreover, mediating roles of AT and CT have never been tested before in the given settings. Finally, results defy the simple statements of the theory and call for the context-based theorized empirical studies. In doing so, it calls for the post-modernist stage (case-by-case contextual treatment of theory) of HR and management literature.
Impact of institutions on emerging European high-growth firms
Authors: Pereira Vijay , Temouri Yama
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Based on the multi-faceted nature of high-growth firms (HGFs) and the significant investments by governments to make the business environment more conducive to firm growth, the effects of changing institutions impacting on HGFs has not been explored in any great detail. While the authors have a very clear understanding of the spatial variations of HGFs and their firm characteristics in various advanced countries, the authors are lacking such insights for emerging countries. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

Given the growth prospects and economic reforms, the authors chose emerging Central and Eastern European (CEE) countries as the research context. Utilising a cross-country panel data set spanning 11 countries, the authors investigate the share of HGFs across these countries and further examine how changes in institutions impact firms to become HGFs. The authors frame the arguments around three institutional dimensions, namely corruption, investment climate and bureaucratic quality.

Findings

The findings suggest that the rates of HGFs are significantly higher in emerging CEE countries as compared with those in developed countries. Second, the results show that an improvement in a country’s institutional environment impacts positively on the likelihood of firms becoming HGFs. Among the three measures of institutions, bureaucratic quality seems to have the largest positive impact as compared with corruption and investment climate.

Originality/value

The authors contribute to the literature by presenting the share of HGF across 11 emerging CEE countries and estimating how changes in institutions impact on firms becoming HGFs for the period 2000-2013.
Skills needed in supply chain-human agency and social capital analysis in third party logistics
Authors: Dubey Rameshwar , Gunasekaran Angappa , Childe Stephen J. , Papadopoulos Thanos
Published: November 2017

Purpose

A shortage of skills is recognized as a major source of risk in supply chain networks. This study uses two independent organizational theories to explain how to build applicable skills for continuous availability of appropriate supply chain talents. The purpose of this paper is to propose an integrated framework that links human agency theory, social capital theory and supply chain skill.

Design/methodology/approach

This framework is analyzed in third party logistics (3PL) organizations by confirmatory factor analysis and tested using a survey. After pre-testing by six academics and six practitioners, and following the total design method, the data were collected from 183 3PL organizations in India. Data were checked to ensure no non-response bias. Research hypotheses were tested using WarpPLS-structural equation modeling.

Findings

A primary finding offers guidance to 3PL managers. Their driving role and mediating role of access to information and access to resources facilitate building supply chain skill. Leaders who invest in library, acquiring e-resources, offer financial support and create trust among employees are enablers of building supply chain skill.

Originality/value

This study classified 14 supply chain skills into three categories as: managerial skill, quantitative skill and supply chain core skill. The study could be extended to similar companies in other developing countries.
Predicting voluntary turnover through human resources database analysis
Authors: Rombaut Evy , Guerry Marie-Anne
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to question whether the available data in the human resources (HR) system could result in reliable turnover predictions without supplementary survey information.

Design/methodology/approach

A decision tree approach and a logistic regression model for analysing turnover were introduced. The methodology is illustrated on a real-life data set of a Belgian branch of a private company. The model performance is evaluated by the area under the ROC curve (AUC) measure.

Findings

It was concluded that data in the personnel system indeed lead to valuable predictions of turnover.

Practical implications

The presented approach brings determinants of voluntary turnover to the surface. The results yield useful information for HR departments. Where the logistic regression results in a turnover probability at the individual level, the decision tree makes it possible to ascertain employee groups that are at risk for turnover. With the data set-based approach, each company can, immediately, ascertain their own turnover risk.

Originality/value

The study of a data-driven approach for turnover investigation has not been done so far.
Strategic decision-making
Authors: Parayitam Satyanarayana , Papenhausen Chris
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of cooperative conflict management on agreement-seeking behavior, agreement-seeking behavior on decision outcomes, moderating role of competence-based trust on the relationship between agreement-seeking behavior and decision outcomes, and mediating role of agreement-seeking behavior between cooperative conflict management and decision outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structured survey instrument, this paper gathered data from 348 students enrolled in a strategic management capstone course that features strategic decision-making in a simulated business strategy game. The data from 94 teams were collected from the student population using a carefully administered instrument. The data were aggregated after running the inter-rater agreement test and the analyzed to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results from the hierarchical regression of the complex moderated mediation model reveal that cooperative conflict management is positively related to agreement-seeking behavior, and agreement-seeking behavior mediates the relationship between cooperative conflict management and decision outcomes. The results also suggest that competence-based trust acts as a moderator in the relationship between agreement-seeking behavior and decision quality; agreement-seeking behavior and team effectiveness, and agreement-seeking behavior and decision commitment. Results also support mediation of agreement-seeking behavior between cooperative conflict management and decision outcomes.

Research limitations/implications

The present research is based on self-report measures, and hence, the limitations of social desirability bias and common method bias are inherent. However, adequate care is taken to minimize these limitations. The research has implications for the strategic decision-making process literature.

Practical implications

In addition to the strategic management literature, this study contributes to practicing managers. The study suggests that competence-based trust plays a vital role in decision effectiveness. Administrators need to select the members in the decision-making process who have competence-based trust on one another and engage in agreement-seeking behavior.

Social implications

The findings from the study help in creating a fruitful social environment in organizations.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights about the previously unknown effects of cooperative conflict management and agreement-seeking behavior in strategic decision-making process.
Market segmentation via attitudinal functions: a multi-method approach
Authors: Obilo Obinna O. , Alford Bruce L.
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This study aims to develop a method of segmenting markets by using the functional approach to attitudes. The adopted approach identifies and groups individuals based on what functions their held attitudes serve for them. Specific marketing mixes can, thus, be designed for each functional profile.

Design/methodology/approach

The multi-method approach adopted consists of a qualitative assessment of consumers’ attitudinal functions in the physical fitness context and the development of an instrument to identify the distribution of attitudinal function segments in the same context.

Findings

A valid and reliable instrument that can be used to segment a market based on functional profiles is developed.

Practical implications

The outlined method provides a method for practitioners to identify existing functional segments, thus creating marketing mixes based on these functional segments and, ultimately, maximizing the value created for each segment.

Originality/value

The value in this research lies in the integration of old concepts (functional approach and scale development) to solving a new problem. The functional approach reaches deep to determine “why attitudes are held” vs simply “what attitudes are held”. Operationalization difficulties led to the abandonment of the approach. This research, thus, contributes theoretically by actually operationalizing the functional approach via a scale development, and using the operationalized form as a new means for segmenting markets.
“Me-search”
Authors: Gardner Susan K. , Hart Jeni , Ng Jennifer , Ropers-Huilman Rebecca , Ward Kelly , Wolf-Wendel Lisa
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the experiences with me-search among scholars in the field of education, defined as the conduct of research about one’s own identity or in one’s own setting.

Design/methodology/approach

Centered around the tensions inherent in the training received around objectivity and subjectivity, these individuals discuss how they came to conduct me-search and the challenges inherent in it, with a particular focus on the teaching and advising of students conducting this kind of qualitative work.

Findings

Applying Richardson and St. Pierre’s (2005) concepts of writing stories, the following reflections provide a grounding of the “me” in methodology, with an eye toward using this methodology to create social change.

Originality/value

While this is a common research approach, relatively little guidance exists on the practice of “me-search”, particularly for young scholars.
Building on success? Future challenges for doctoral education globally
Authors: McAlpine Lynn
Published: November 2017

Purpose

In the past 20 years, doctoral programmes have become the focus of policy initiatives. This has led to considerable changes in their structures and consequently student experience. In this essay, the author explores some of the changes by situating an examination of doctoral education-past, present, future-within the broader context of academic life, and the nature and role of research in developed economies. This analysis provides the context in which to draw out some implications for the future study of doctoral education.

Design/methodology/approach

The essay draws on a synthesis of the research on doctoral education, early career researcher trajectories, research structures and academic work environment.

Findings

The analysis suggests the following: doctoral education reform is being driven largely by policy concerns, rather than by evidence or disciplinary intention; and academic work environment is becoming less and less attractive due to increasing demands for productivity and accountability.

Originality/value

The author concludes with a call to action: unless we, as academics, take action on several fronts, we may find that the PhD becomes purely a policy instrument, and that in the long-term, life of an academic will no longer be attractive to PhD graduates.
Exploring the antecedents and consequences of organizational democracy
Authors: Safari Ali , Salehzadeh Reza , Ghaziasgar Elham
Published: November 2017

Purpose

Organizational democracy is the new model of organizational design for a Democratic Age, and out of this new model grows a freedom-centered and healthy climate. Democratic management is a key to greater organization success and a necessity to gain higher levels of performance and innovation. The purpose of this paper is to explore the antecedents and consequences of organizational democracy in an Iranian context.

Design/methodology/approach

Statistical population includes the employees of the Gas Company of Isfahan Province. For data analysis, 263 accurate completed questionnaires are used. Structural equation modeling is applied to investigate the relationship between the research variables.

Findings

The findings showed that some types of organizational culture (i.e. self-criticism, team, and participatory culture) (β=0.33); and some dimensions of organizational structure (i.e. decentralization, flat hierarchy, and less formalization) (β=0.55) as antecedent variables have a significant direct effect on organizational democracy. Also, organizational democracy has a significant direct effect on human resources outcomes consist of organizational commitment, self-efficacy, and improving work relationships (β=0.64); and organizational outcomes consist of organizational learning and organizational agility (β=0.96).

Originality/value

Despite years of encouragement from consultants and theorists, managers have generally shown little interest toward democratic process as a system of decision making and management in organizations. This study proposes a comprehensive model for identifying the antecedents and consequences of organizational democracy. Most studies in this field are theoretical rather than empirical. But, in this research, the proposed relationships are examined empirically.
From a Quality Management System (QMS) to a Lean Quality Management System (LQMS)
Authors: Bacoup Pascal , Michel Cedric , Habchi Georges , Pralus Magali
Published: November 2017

Purpose

This paper deals with the subject of “Lean Normalization.” The purpose of this paper is to propose a comprehensive methodology which combines the benefits of both International Organization for Standardization (ISO) standards and Lean Management. The application of this methodology leads manufacturing or service companies to certification without creating more documentation. It guarantees agility and flexibility in the day-to-day management of the company, and induces lower costs and reduced times. This methodology provides a new way of tackling the implementation of ISO standards in a company.

Design/methodology/approach

This methodology is based on the synergistic combination of both ISO standards (Quality Management System) and the key concepts of Lean Management. After a short presentation of ISO standards and Lean Management, the possibility of implementing a synergy between these two different approaches will be discussed. At this point, ISO 9001 standards will be focused on. The proposed methodology will be introduced step by step. Each step of the model will be formalized using the Structured Analysis and Design Technique graphic representation tool. Moreover, each step is associated with a key concept of Lean Management. In order to illustrate the proposed method, an example of implementation will also be presented.

Findings

To show the feasibility of this methodology, this paper finishes with a summary of the results achieved in a company and draws some interesting conclusions. Companies have the possibility of achieving certification in combination with a Lean Quality Management System (LQMS): a one-page quality manual, only ten records, no major non-conformities and no customer complaints over a two-year period.

Research limitations/implications

The methodology may have to be adapted to better suit the needs of companies seeking to implement the latest version of the ISO 9001 standards.

Practical implications

This paper presents the deployment of ISO 9001 standards whilst simultaneously respecting key Lean Management concepts. The practical results for enterprises are the implementation of an LQMS leading to a certification.

Social implications

This paper presents a new method combining both ISO standards and Lean Management concepts to achieve certification with an LQMS.

Originality/value

Due to its simplicity and the relevance of its steps, the proposed methodology can be applied to companies with a guaranteed success of certification.
Personalized medicine is the future sustainable knowledge for human well-being
Authors: Bakhiet Moiz
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a viewpoint on the subject of personalized medicine and its impact on human well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a viewpoint.

Findings

The paper concludes that personalized medicine can help in the elimination of redundant treatments, decreasing side effects, prevention of disease and earlier intervention.

Originality/value

This is a viewpoint piece.
The effects of knowledge transfer on farmers decision making toward sustainable agriculture practices
Authors: Adnan Nadia , Nordin Shahrina Md , Rahman Imran , Noor Amir
Published: November 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enhance the adoption decision of farmers and observe the factors that affect the adoption decision of sustainable agriculture practices (SAP) which is the major motivating force of Malaysian economy. The idea behind this study is to transfer knowledge to paddy farmers within regional areas of Malaysia and to comprehend their understanding of social innovation and sustainable agriculture engineering and their overall significance. The outcome of this research will suggest a strategic extensive plan to encourage the use of SAP and also help to develop SAP helping toward building a sustainable society.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper encompasses three phases: analyzing the process of SAP among Malaysian Paddy farmers, to agricultural industrialization, until the stage of SAP led by farmer’s co-operatives, discussing the relevant practice together with literature and historically evidencing that there is no better way to promote SAP among regional paddy farmers within Malaysia.

Findings

Initial objective of this paper is to establish a thoughtful approach to enable the society to bridge a gap between embracing sustainability. The second objective investigates the misconception among farmers about social innovation. Furthermore, the study builds the conceptual framework and examines the relationship among the relevant constructs, this framework is critically examining the literature within paddy farming context. Harmoniously, there has been limited empirical research performed on the decision of adoption toward SAP usage among paddy farmers in Malaysia.

Originality/value

The clear worth of this research paper is the illustration from past reviews and practices to endorse SAP usage among paddy farmers in Malaysia. Another literature review suggests that these countermeasures comprehensively, historically, and theoretically are proven result oriented. The information about SAP will be beneficial for farmers and policy maker who are interested in the advancement. This learning delivers a comparative summary of knowledge transfer influencing farmer’s intention and behavior of sustainable agriculture engineering to adopt green technology. In a future study, these construct will be empirically tested.
A method for classifying pre‐stack seismic data based on amplitude–frequency attributes and self‐organizing maps
Authors: Molino‐Minero‐Re Erik , Rubio‐Acosta Ernesto , Benítez‐Pérez Héctor , Brandi‐Purata Juan Marcos , Pérez‐Quezadas Nora Isabel , García‐Nocetti Demetrio Fabián
Published: November 2017

Analysis of pre‐stack seismic data is important for seismic interpretation and geological features classification. However, most classification analyses are based on post‐stack data, which ignores pre‐stack information, and it may be disadvantageous for complex geological description. In this work, we propose a method to address the classification of pre‐stack seismic data decomposed using the wavelet transform to spread the amplitude and frequency seismic attributes at the same time, which are then classified by a self‐organizing map. The resulting classes constitute an attribute constructed by the joint amplitude–frequency components of the transformed pre‐stack seismic gathers, which create a multi‐dimensional set defined through a given metric. Tests on a real seismic cube revealed that the method can identify patterns observed on the seismic images, which agree with our current knowledge of the seismic data. The method can be used as a complementary tool to identify features and structures in seismic signals.
Nurses’ perceptions of preventing falls for patients with dementia in the acute hospital setting
Authors: Ayton Darshini , O'Brien Penny , Treml Jonathan , Soh Sze‐Ee , Morello Renata , Barker Anna
Published: November 2017

Objectives

Safe and high‐quality care for patients with dementia is a key priority area of the Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care; however, caring for patients with dementia in the acute hospital setting is perceived as challenging. The aim of this analysis was to explore nurses’ perspectives regarding fall prevention for patients with dementia in an acute care setting.

Methods

Secondary analysis of focus group data. Focus groups were conducted with nurses (n = 96) across six hospitals in New South Wales and Victoria.

Results

Nurses frequently reported issues relating to the physical environment of the acute care setting, competing priorities in a complex care setting and the need for one‐on‐one supervision for patients with dementia.

Conclusion

Nurses report that one‐on‐one supervision is required to keep patients safe. Future research examining the acceptability and cost‐effectiveness of volunteers providing this supervision is warranted in Australian hospitals.
Diversity and community composition of herbaceous plants in different habitat types in south‐east Cameroon
Authors: Willie Jacob , Tagg Nikki , Lens Luc
Published: November 2017

The composition of herbaceous vegetation was evaluated with the aim of characterizing forests at various ages of stand development. Herb stems were sampled in 250 4‐m² square plots distributed within six habitat types. A total of 36 herb species belonging to 15 families were recorded. Species richness did not significantly differ between habitat types. Most herb species occurred in all habitat types and were therefore generalists. However, a few indicator herb species were detected, and the results roughly suggested that herb species of the families Poaceae and Araceae were indicative of late successional forests; Zingiberaceae are indicative of early successional forests; and Commelinaceae, Costaceae, Cyperaceae and Marantaceae are indicators of flooded habitats. Species diversity and stem density of herbaceous plants did not change with forest succession as a decrease in abundance and frequency of occurrence of pioneer species in late successional forests was counterbalanced by the presence of generalist and late successional species. However, increasing proportions of dwarf stems in late successional forests translated to changes in the vertical structure of herbaceous plant communities. Herbivory pressure by gorillas did not have a notable effect on herbaceous plant community development. This study contributes to the definition of herbaceous ecological indicators of forest succession in different settings.
Characterization of epitope specificities of reference antibodies used for the quantification of the birch pollen allergen Bet v 1
Authors: Brier S. , Le Mignon M. , Jain K. , Lebrun C. , Peurois F. , Kellenberger C. , Bordas‐Le Floch V. , Mascarell L. , Nony E. , Moingeon P.
Published: November 2017

Background

Accurate allergen quantification is needed to document the consistency of allergen extracts used for immunotherapy. Herein, we characterize the epitope specificities of two monoclonal antibodies used in an ELISA for the quantification of the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1, established as a reference by the BSP090 European project.

Methods

The ability of mAbs 5B4 and 6H4 to recognize Bet v 1 isoforms was addressed by immunochromatography. The capacity of each mAb to compete with patients’ IgE for binding to Bet v 1 was measured by ELISA inhibition. Epitope mapping was performed by pepscan analysis, site‐directed mutagenesis, and hydrogen/deuterium exchange‐mass spectrometry.

Results

The 5B4 epitope corresponds to a peptide sequence (I56‐K68) overlapping with the binding sites of patients’ serum IgEs. Mutation of residues P59, E60, and K65 abolishes 5B4 binding to Bet v 1 and reduces the level of IgE recognition. In contrast, 6H4 recognizes a conformational epitope lying opposite to the 5B4 binding site, involving residues located in segments I44‐K55 and R70‐F79. Substitution of E45 reduces the binding capacity of 6H4, confirming that it is critical for the interaction. Both mAbs interact with >90% of Bet v 1 content present in the birch pollen extract, while displaying a weak cross‐reactivity with other allergens of the PR‐10 family.

Conclusions

MAbs 5B4 and 6H4 recognize structurally distinct epitopes present in the vast majority of Bet v 1 isoforms. These results support the relevance as a reference method of the Bet v 1‐specific quantitative ELISA adopted by the European Pharmacopoeia.