bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanism of Tripeptide Trimming by γ-Secretase
Authors: Bhattarai Apurba , Devkota Sujan , Do Hung Nguyen , Wang Jinan , Bhattarai Sanjay , Wolfe Michael S. , Miao Yinglong
Published: August 2021

The membrane-embedded γ-secretase complex processively cleaves within the transmembrane domain of amyloid precursor protein (APP) to produce 37-to-43-residue amyloid β-peptides (Aβ) of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Despite its importance in pathogenesis, the mechanism of processive proteolysis by γ-secretase remains poorly understood. Here, mass spectrometry and western blotting were used to quantify the efficiency of the first tripeptide trimming step (Aβ49→Aβ46) of wildtype (WT) and familial AD (FAD) mutant APP substrate. In comparison to WT APP, the efficiency of this first trimming step was similar for the I45F, A42T and V46F APP FAD mutants, but substantially diminished for the I45T and T48P mutants. In parallel with biochemical experiments, all-atom simulations using a novel Peptide Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (Pep-GaMD) method were applied to investigate tripeptide trimming of Aβ49 by γ-secretase. The starting structure was active γ-secretase bound to Aβ49 and APP intracellular domain (AICD), as generated from our previous study that captured activation of γ-secretase for the initial endoproteolytic cleavage of APP (Bhattarai et al., ACS Cent Sci, 2020, 6:969-983). Pep-GaMD simulations captured remarkable structural rearrangements of both the enzyme and substrate, in which hydrogen-bonded catalytic aspartates and water became poised for tripeptide trimming of Aβ49 to Aβ46. These structural changes required a positively charged N-terminus of endoproteolytic coproduct AICD, which could dissociate during conformational rearrangements of the protease and Aβ49. The simulation findings were highly consistent with biochemical experimental data. Taken together, our complementary biochemical experiments and Pep-GaMD simulations have enabled elucidation of the mechanism of tripeptide trimming by γ-secretase.

Significance statement

Production of amyloid β-peptide (Aβ) of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) from its precursor protein requires a series of proteolytic events carried out by the membrane-embedded γ-secretase complex. Mutations in the substrate and enzyme that produce Aβ cause hereditary AD and these mutations affect tripeptide trimming of initially formed long Aβ peptides by γ-secretase. Little is known about the structural mechanism of this trimming process. Here, we have developed a molecular dynamic model for the first step of trimming (Aβ49 to Aβ46) by γ-secretase. Conformational changes in the enzyme-substrate complex to set up this trimming step require the presence of N-terminally charged endoproteolytic cleavage co-product. Computational effects of AD-causing mutations in Aβ49 on the trimming process were validated through biochemical experiments.
Unraveling the Connections between Calreticulin and Myeloproliferative Neoplasms via Calcium Signalling
Authors: Jaiswal Amit , Wang Zhiguo , Zhu Xudong , Ju Zhenyu
Published: August 2021

Mutations in the form of insertions and deletions (INDEL) in the calreticulin gene lead to essential thrombocythemia which is characterized by the formation of thrombosis. However, the connection between calreticulin INDEL and essential thrombocythemia remains largely elusive. Through combined molecular dynamics simulation and in-vitro studies on the wild type and mutated isoforms of calreticulin, the mechanism underlying the calreticulin INDEL induced essential thrombocythemia was investigated at the molecular level. Our results demonstrate that mutations in exon-9 could lead to significant conformational variations of calreticulin structure and thereby reducing its interaction with calcium ions due to decreased electrostatic contributions. The consequence of mutations on calreticulin’s structural integrity was revealed by identifying the key residues and their roles in calcium binding. Furthermore, mutations implemented by CRISPR-Cas9 in exon-9 showed diminished calcium signaling in HEK-293T cells, which agree well with our in-silico findings. The current study might help in understanding of the interactions between calreticulin exon-9 INDEL and calcium ions mediated by the structural variations of calreticulin. The results provide useful information for designing novel therapeutic approaches targeting essential thrombocythemia.
Mechanism of Tethered Agonist-Mediated Signaling by Polycystin-1
Authors: Pawnikar Shristi , Magenheimer Brenda S. , Munoz Ericka Nevarez , Maser Robin L. , Miao Yinglong
Published: August 2021

Polycystin-1 (PC1) is an important unusual G-protein-coupled receptor (GPCR) with 11 transmembrane (TM) domains and its mutations account for 85% of cases of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD). PC1 shares multiple characteristics with Adhesion GPCRs. These include a GPCR proteolysis site that autocatalytically divides these proteins into extracellular, N-terminal and membrane-embedded, C-terminal (CTF) fragments, and a tethered agonist (TA) within the N-terminal stalk of the CTF that is suggested to activate signaling. However, the mechanism by which a TA can activate PC1 is not known. Here, we have combined functional cellular signaling experiments of PC1 CTF expression constructs encoding wild type, stalkless and three different ADPKD stalk variants with all-atom Gaussian accelerated molecular dynamics (GaMD) simulations to investigate TA-mediated signaling activation. Correlations of residue motions and free-energy profiles calculated from the GaMD simulations correlated with the differential signaling abilities of wild type and stalk variants of PC1 CTF. They suggested an allosteric mechanism involving residue interactions connecting the stalk, Tetragonal Opening for Polycystins (TOP) domain and putative pore loop in TA-mediated activation of PC1 CTF. Key interacting residues such as N3074-S3585 and R3848-E4078 predicted from the GaMD simulations were validated by new mutagenesis experiments. Together, these complementary analyses have provided novel insights into a TA-mediated activation mechanism of PC1 CTF signaling, which will be important for future rational drug design targeting PC1.

Significance Statement

Mutations of polycystin-1 (PC1) are the major cause (85% of cases) of autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD), which is the fourth leading cause of kidney failure. PC1 is thought to function as an atypical GPCR, yet the mechanism by which PC1 regulates G-protein signaling remains poorly understood. A significant portion of ADPKD mutations of PC1 encode a protein with defects in maturation or reduced function that may be amenable to functional rescue. In this work, we have combined complementary biochemical and cellular assay experiments and accelerated molecular simulations, which revealed a novel allosteric transduction pathway in activation of the PC1 CTF. Our findings shall facilitate future rational drug design efforts targeting the PC1 signaling function.
Identification of Potent Small Molecule Inhibitors of SARS-CoV-2 Entry
Authors: Mediouni Sonia , Mou Huihui , Otsuka Yuka , Jablonski Joseph Anthony , Adcock Robert Scott , Batra Lalit , Chung Dong-Hoon , Rood Christopher , de Vera Ian Mitchelle S. , Rahaim Ronald , Ullah Sultan , Yu Xuerong , Nguyen Tu-Trinh , Hull Mitchell , Chen Emily , Bannister Thomas D. , Baillargeon Pierre , Scampavia Louis , Farzan Michael , Valente Susana T. , Spicer Timothy P.
Published: August 2021

The severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 responsible for COVID-19 remains a persistent threat to mankind, especially for the immunocompromised and elderly for which the vaccine may have limited effectiveness. Entry of SARS-CoV-2 requires a high affinity interaction of the viral spike protein with the cellular receptor angiotensin-converting enzyme 2. Novel mutations on the spike protein correlate with the high transmissibility of new variants of SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the need for small molecule inhibitors of virus entry into target cells. We report the identification of such inhibitors through a robust high-throughput screen testing 15,000 small molecules from unique libraries. Several leads were validated in a suite of mechanistic assays, including whole cell SARS-CoV-2 infectivity assays. The main lead compound, Calpeptin, was further characterized using SARS-CoV-1 and the novel SARS-CoV-2 variant entry assays, SARS-CoV-2 protease assays and molecular docking. This study reveals Calpeptin as a potent and specific inhibitor of SARS-CoV-2 and some variants.
SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern have acquired mutations associated with an increased spike cleavage
Authors: Escalera Alba , Gonzalez-Reiche Ana S. , Aslam Sadaf , Mena Ignacio , Pearl Rebecca L. , Laporte Manon , Fossati Andrea , Rathnasinghe Raveen , Alshammary Hala , van de Guchte Adriana , Bouhaddou Mehdi , Kehrer Thomas , Zuliani-Alvarez Lorena , Meekins David A. , Balaraman Velmurugan , McDowell Chester , Richt Jürgen A. , Bajic Goran , Sordillo Emilia Mia , Krogan Nevan , Simon Viviana , Albrecht Randy A. , van Bakel Harm , Garcia-Sastre Adolfo , Aydillo Teresa
Published: August 2021

For efficient cell entry and membrane fusion, SARS-CoV-2 spike (S) protein needs to be cleaved at two different sites, S1/S2 and S2’ by different cellular proteases such as furin and TMPRSS2. Polymorphisms in the S protein can affect cleavage, viral transmission, and pathogenesis. Here, we investigated the role of arising S polymorphisms in vitro and in vivo to understand the emergence of SARS-CoV-2 variants. First, we showed that the S:655Y is selected after in vivo replication in the mink model. This mutation is present in the Gamma Variant Of Concern (VOC) but it also occurred sporadically in early SARS-CoV-2 human isolates. To better understand the impact of this polymorphism, we analyzed the in vitro properties of a panel of SARS-CoV-2 isolates containing S:655Y in different lineage backgrounds. Results demonstrated that this mutation enhances viral replication and spike protein cleavage. Viral competition experiments using hamsters infected with WA1 and WA1-655Y isolates showed that the variant with 655Y became dominant in both direct infected and direct contact animals. Finally, we investigated the cleavage efficiency and fusogenic properties of the spike protein of selected VOCs containing different mutations in their spike proteins. Results showed that all VOCs have evolved to acquire an increased spike cleavage and fusogenic capacity despite having different sets of mutations in the S protein. Our study demonstrates that the S:655Y is an important adaptative mutation that increases viral cell entry, transmission, and host susceptibility. Moreover, SARS-COV-2 VOCs showed a convergent evolution that promotes the S protein processing.
Assessing spatial segregation of beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas) in Western Hudson Bay estuaries
Authors: Westdal Kristin , Davies Jeremy , Ferguson Steve
Published: August 2021

Segregation of older adult males from females and immature males is known to occur in some beluga whale populations, but it is unclear if adults accompanied by calves segregate in Hudson Bay, where the largest summering population is found. Using imagery from a photographic aerial survey conducted in August 2015, we considered a number of environmental variables that might explain distribution by age class of beluga near two of three main estuaries (Churchill and Seal River) used by Western Hudson Bay belugas in the summer season. Belugas were identified and classified by age manually using an identification decision tree and GPS coordinates were plotted in ArcGIS. Distribution by age class was examined in relation to distance to coastal habitat and bathymetry to test the predation risk hypothesis, sea surface temperature (thermal advantage hypothesis), and extent of river plume (forge-selection hypothesis). Habitat characteristics and the proportion of age classes in both estuaries were similar between age class groups (with and without calves) indicating no segregation and suggesting the environmental data assessed were not driving patterns of distribution and density of age classes at the spatial and temporal scale being investigated. Results provide a greater understanding of spatial patterns of beluga whale habitat use in western Hudson Bay and information useful in conservation and management advice.
3,3’-Diindolylmethane induces apoptosis and autophagy in fission yeast
Authors: Emami Parvaneh , Ueno Masaru
Published: August 2021

3,3’-Diindolylmethane (DIM) is a compound derived from the digestion of indole-3-carbinol, found in the broccoli family. It induces apoptosis and autophagy in some types of human cancer. DIM extends lifespan in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. The mechanisms by which DIM induces apoptosis and autophagy in humans and expands lifespan in fission yeasts are not fully understood. Here, we show that DIM induces apoptosis and autophagy in log-phase cells, which is dose-dependent in fission yeast. A high concentration of DIM disrupted the nuclear envelope (NE) structure and induced chromosome condensation at an early time point. In contrast, a low concentration of DIM induced autophagy but did not disrupt NE structure. The mutant defective in autophagy was more sensitive to a low concentration of DIM, demonstrating that the autophagic pathway contributes to the survival of cells against DIM. Moreover, our results showed that the lem2 mutant is more sensitive to DIM. NE in the lem2 mutant was disrupted even at the low concentration of DIM. Our results demonstrate that the autophagic pathway and NE integrity are important to maintain viability in the presence of a low concentration of DIM. The mechanism of apoptosis and autophagy induction by DIM might be conserved in fission yeast and humans. Further studies will contribute to the understanding of the mechanism of apoptosis and autophagy by DIM in fission yeast and humans.
Quantitative analysis of tumour spheroid structure
Authors: Browning Alexander P , Sharp Jesse A , Murphy Ryan J , Gunasingh Gency , Lawson Brodie , Burrage Kevin , Haass Nikolas K , Simpson Matthew J
Published: August 2021

Tumour spheroids are common in vitro experimental models of avascular tumour growth. Compared with traditional two-dimensional culture, tumour spheroids more closely mimic the avascular tumour microenvironment where spatial differences in nutrient availability strongly influence growth. We show that spheroids initiated using significantly different numbers of cells grow to similar limiting sizes, suggesting that avascular tumours have a limiting structure; in agreement with untested predictions of classical mathematical models of tumour spheroids. We develop a novel mathematical and statistical framework to study the structure of tumour spheroids seeded from cells transduced with fluorescent cell cycle indicators, enabling us to discriminate between arrested and cycling cells and identify an arrested region. Our analysis shows that transient spheroid structure is independent of initial spheroid size, and the limiting structure can be independent of seeding density. Standard experimental protocols compare spheroid size as a function of time; however, our analysis suggests that comparing spheroid structure as a function of overall size produces results that are relatively insensitive to variability in spheroid size. Our experimental observations are made using two melanoma cell lines, but our modelling framework applies across a wide range of spheroid culture conditions and cell lines.
Proteomic landscape of multi-layered breast cancer internal tumor heterogeneity
Authors: Mardamshina Mariya , Shenoy Anjana , Necula Daniela , Krol Kateryna , Pirak Daniel , Itzhacky Nitay , Marin Irina , Shalmon Bruria , Sharan Roded , Gal-Yam Einav , Barshack Iris , Geiger Tamar
Published: August 2021

Despite extensive research, internal tumor heterogeneity presents enormous challenges to achieve complete therapeutic responses. Changes in protein expression are central determinants of cancer phenotypes that reflect potential therapeutic targets. However, previous proteomic studies did not address internal heterogeneity, therefore, masked the necessary spatial resolution to achieve a comprehensive understanding of cancer complexity. Here we present the first large-scale multi-focal breast cancer proteomic study of 330 tumor regions which associated cancer cell function, pathological parameters, and spatial localization of each tumor region. We found marked internal proteomic heterogeneity even within tumors presenting homogeneous receptor expression. Additionally, analysis of the internal heterogeneity, based on coexisting receptor expression or histological patterns in single tumors, showed significant functional differences between homogeneous and heterogeneous tumors related to cancer metabolism, immunogenicity, and proliferation. We anticipate that this study will serve as a starting point towards the development of improved cancer therapy and diagnostics.
Microtubule rescue at midzone edges promotes overlap stability and prevents spindle collapse during anaphase B
Authors: Lera-Ramirez Manuel , Nédélec François J. , Tran Phong T.
Published: August 2021

During anaphase B, molecular motors slide interpolar microtubules to elongate the mitotic spindle, contributing to the separation of chromosomes. However, sliding of antiparallel microtubules reduces their overlap, which may lead to spindle breakage, unless microtubules grow to compensate sliding. How sliding and growth are coordinated is still poorly understood. In this study, we have used the fission yeastS. pombeto measure microtubule dynamics during anaphase B. We report that the coordination of microtubule growth and sliding relies on promoting rescues at the midzone edges. This makes microtubules stable from pole to midzone, while their distal parts including the plus ends alternate between assembly and disassembly. Consequently, the midzone keeps a constant length throughout anaphase, enabling sustained sliding without the need for a precise regulation of microtubule growth speed. Additionally, we found that inS. pombe, which undergoes closed mitosis, microtubule growth speed decreases when the nuclear membrane wraps around the spindle midzone.
iRhom2 regulates ERBB signalling to promote KRAS-driven oncogenesis
Authors: Sieber Boris , Lu Fangfang , Stribbling Stephen M. , Grieve Adam G. , Ryan Anderson J. , Freeman Matthew
Published: August 2021

Dysregulation of the ERBB/EGFR signalling pathway causes multiple types of cancer (1, 2). Accordingly, ADAM17, the primary shedding enzyme that releases and activates ERBB ligands, is tightly regulated. It has recently become clear that iRhoms, inactive members of the rhomboid-like superfamily, are regulatory cofactors for ADAM17 (3, 4). Here we show that oncogenic KRAS mutants target the cytoplasmic domain of iRhom2 to induce ADAM17-dependent shedding and the release of ERBB ligands. Activation of ERK1/2 by oncogenic KRAS induces the phosphorylation of iRhom2, recruitment of the phospho-binding 14-3-3 proteins, and consequent ADAM17-dependent shedding of ERBB ligands. In addition, cancer-associated mutations in iRhom2 act as sensitisers in this pathway by further increasing KRAS-induced shedding of ERBB ligands. This mechanism is conserved in lung cancer cells, where iRhom activity is required for tumour xenograft growth. In this context, the activity of oncogenic KRAS is modulated by the iRhom2-dependent release of ERBB ligands, thus placing iRhom2 as a central component of a positive feedback loop in lung cancer cells. Overall, the cytoplasmic domain of iRhom2 is a critical component of KRAS-induced oncogenesis of lung cancer cells. Both ADAM17 and iRhom2 have also been implicated in a wide range of other cancers (5–10), so the mechanism we have revealed may also have wider oncogenic significance.
A novel likely pathogenic variant in a patient with Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome
Authors: Lansdon Lisa A. , Chen Dong , Rush Eric T. , Engleman Kendra , Zhang Lei , Saunders Carol J. , Oroszi Gabor
Published: August 2021

Hermansky–Pudlak syndrome (HPS) is a genetic disorder characterized by oculocutaneous albinism and variable pulmonary fibrosis, granulomatous colitis, or immunodeficiency. The diagnosis relies on clinical findings, platelet transmission electron microscopy studies showing absent dense granules, or the identification of a pathogenic genotype in one of 11 associated genes, including HPS1. We report a 2-wk-old male with significant iris transillumination defects, a pale fundus, and mild corectopia found by clinical exome sequencing to have a previously reported pathogenic variant, c.972dupC p.(Met325HisfsTer128), and a variant of uncertain significance, c.1846G>A p.(Glu616Lys), in HPS1. To determine whether his phenotype was consistent with HPS, follow-up studies of whole blood lumiaggregometry and platelet transmission electron microscopy were performed that revealed absent or markedly reduced platelet ATP secretion and virtually absent platelet dense granules, thus confirming the diagnosis. To the best of our knowledge, our case is the first in which the c.1846G>A p.(Glu616Lys) variant is identified in a patient with HPS. In addition, the case also highlights the importance of leveraging appropriate confirmatory clinical testing and reverse phenotyping, which allowed the care team to establish the clinical diagnosis of HPS and reclassify the previously reported variant of uncertain significance in HPS1 to likely pathogenic.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld analysis of diethyl (2E,2′E)-3,3′-[1-(8-phenylisoquinolin-1-yl)-1H-indole-2,7-diyl]diacrylate
Authors: Zhang Xue-Jun
Published: August 2021

The molecule of title compound, C33H28N2O4, comprises an indole unit (A), an isoquinoline moiety (B) and a benzene ring (C). The dihedral angles between these groups areA/B= 57.47 (1),A/C= 18.48 (1) andB/C= 57.97 (1) °. The ethyl acrylate group at the 2-position is nearly co-planar with the indole unit [3.81 (2)°], while that at the 7-position is distinctly non-coplanar [52.64 (1)°]. Intramolecular π–π interactions between the indole unit and benzene ring help to establish the clip-shaped conformation of the molecule. In the crystal, the molecules are assembled into two-dimensional layersviaC—H...O hydrogen bonds, π–π and C—H...π interactions. Hirshfeld surface analysis illustrates that the greatest contributions are from H...H (63.2%), C...H/H...C (15.4%) and O...H/H...O (14.8%) contacts. The terminal C2H5group of one of the ethyl acrylate side chains is disordered over two positions of equal occupancy.
CEO pulchronomics and appearance discrimination
Authors: Kim Jung Yeun (June) , Shi Linna , Zhou Nan
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Pulchronomics studies the economics of beauty. The purpose of this paper is to research CEO pulchronomics by examining whether a beauty premium exists in CEO compensation and whether this beauty premium is justified by differences in CEO performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors calculate a facial attractiveness scores (FAS) based on facial symmetry, facial structure and the golden ratio. The authors then perform OLS regressions to examine the effect of CEO beauty on CEO compensation and firm performances.

Findings

The authors find that base salaries for attractive CEOs are higher than those for unattractive CEOs, but incentive pays for attractive CEOs are not different from those for unattractive CEOs. The latter is likely due to the fact that attractive CEOs do not outperform unattractive CEOs in operations, innovation, corporate social responsibility and financial reporting quality.

Originality/value

Since the CEO beauty premium is not supported by the superior performance of attractive CEOs, this paper provides new evidence of appearance discrimination in CEO compensation.
Overcoming economic liminality: internationalization of B2B SME’s from a small emerging economy
Authors: Pacheco Barney G. , Akhter Syed
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Current research on small to medium enterprise (SME) internationalization has generated valuable insight but continues to overlook the activities of business-to-business (B2B) SMEs located in small emerging economies. This study aims to fill this gap by testing the applicability of the ownership, location and internalization (OLI) framework to understand the internationalization strategies of small B2B firms in Trinidad and Tobago, a small emerging Caribbean economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a qualitative research design, which involved in-depth interviews with senior executives of three firms in the B2B sector who were knowledgeable about their firm’s internationalization process. Thematic analysis was then used to understand the motivations and strategies underpinning the internationalization approach adopted by each firm.

Findings

Contrary to the stereotype of SMEs in emerging markets as fragile enterprises, there is evidence that firms exploited the development of innovative products and processes to facilitate foreign market entry and expansion. Additionally, firms overcame resource limitations by relying on governmental ties and leveraging networking opportunities. The findings also call attention to the impact of organizational learning and the role of knowledge as a dynamic capability.

Originality/value

Both the context of the study and the application of the OLI framework contributes to the extant literature by yielding substantive insights into the internationalization strategies of B2B firms in a small emerging economy. The findings further highlight how the OLI framework can be supplemented by other theoretical perspectives to better understand internationalization by emerging market SMEs.
Online argumentation-based learning aided by digital concept mapping during COVID-19: implications for health management teaching and learning
Authors: Alt Dorit , Naamati-Schneider Lior
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected educational systems worldwide, forcing them to abruptly shift from face-to-face to online teaching and learning. This case study illustrates how a traditional lecture-based activity for undergraduate students in a Management of Health Service Organizations program was transformed into an argumentation-based learning activity using the technique of digital concept mapping and was deployed in an online format during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Design/methodology/approach

The students were tasked with solving an ill-structured problem bearing significance for their future professional lives and connected to the contents of their course (entitled “Assimilation of service quality in health systems”). The activity was composed of two phases. In Phase 1, participants were asked to provide five arguments to establish their proposed solution to the problem by using a concept map on a digital platform (Mindomo). In Phase 2, they were asked to substantiate their arguments. Reflective journals were used to ascertain how the participants viewed the activity. Thematic analysis was used to analyze the qualitative data by searching for themes demonstrating different epistemological positions.

Findings

Six themes were inductively derived from the students' reflections: (1) transitioning from passive to active learning; (2) generating epistemic change; (3) social perspective-taking; (4) domain-based knowledge; (5) prior knowledge and experience; and (6) online collaboration with other students. Episodes, thoughts and feelings expressed by the students were reported so as to increase the reliability of the recurrent and common themes.

Originality/value

This study mainly shows that combining constructivist teaching and learning tools with advanced technology in an online course enables the development of lifelong learning capabilities among students in the health management professions.
Uniqueness of tea traditions and impacts on tourism: the East Frisian tea culture
Authors: Bohne Hartwig
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study, a case study, is to present the uniqueness of the only UNESCO-awarded tea consumption tradition worldwide and its implications on the tourism industry by analyzing and weighting initializing effects of tea on the regional economy, as well tea tourism-related cultural and social rootings.

Design/methodology/approach

Between 20 July 2020 and 20 August 2020, qualitative interviews have been conducted with regional experts, as well as relevant statistics have been evaluated, cultural and social effects have been analysed and weighted, following two main research questions: can “Tea”, along with its history and tradition, be used effectively for initializing tourism and destination brand management? What kind of instruments are useful for reinforcing authentic tea-oriented destination marketing? In addition, the European Tea Speciality Association (ESTA) supported this research project also with another qualitative interview. Furthermore, two workshops of the Working Group on International Tea Tourism have been used to discuss and reflect the impacts of tea museums and tea consuming traditions as well as the European Tea Research Circle (ETRC).

Findings

Tea and its culture is a strong motive for initializing tourism, as it is linked to cosy ceremonies and social gathering. The brand awareness of the destination “East Frisia” as the “tea destination” of Germany is powerful, and the “East Frisian Tea Ceremony” became a regional social anchor and element of loyalty for tourists and citizens. It is useful and profitable to develop more tea-related authentic evens and products to use this UNESCO award and the positive image of tea ceremonies to strengthen the regional economy.

Research limitations/implications

As the UNESCO award was awarded in 2016, any impacts could only be evaluated for a short period of time.

Practical implications

The specific tea culture in East Frisia has the potential for establishing this region as the most unique region for Tea Tourism in Central Europe. This should be evaluated and developed within additional measurements and programmes. The aim should be a plan for additional mapping and tea-related events and attractions to use this unique heritage for developing sustainable tourism and strengthening the regional hospitality infrastructure.

Social implications

The East Frisian tea culture is empowering people and functions as a harmonic link among the inhabitants of a structurally underdeveloped region. Thus, this habit is a key factor for the stability and pride of the inhabitants, involving citizens and keeping traditions alive.

Originality/value

The combination of a cultural heritage award and a habit for celebrating the consumption of a hot beverage is unique worldwide. Therefore, this analysis is a valuable support for the transfer of applicable knowledge from academia to the industry as well as the first research project about the link between tea consuming heritage and tourism in Europe.
Service quality, loyalty, and co-creation behaviour: a customer perspective
Authors: Albuquerque Rafael P. , Ferreira João J.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to verify co-creation behavior and understand a relationship between perception of service quality, loyalty and co-creation, from Starbucks customers' perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative methodology was carried out, operationalized by applying a questionnaire to a sample of 385 respondents.

Findings

The results showed that service quality has a positive impact on loyalty and co-creation behavior in all its aspects; loyalty can be considered an important attribute in the intention of co-creation by customers.

Originality/value

This research extends the current knowledge on the subject and examines the associations between other attributes discussed. The implications of the study suggest strategic directions for using the clients' co-creation as a competitive alternative and generating value.
Can do and reason to: when are proactive employees willing to share negative information?
Authors: Marler Laura E. , Cox Susie S. , Simmering Marcia J. , Rogers Bryan L. , Matherne Curtis F.
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Information sharing is vital to organizational operations, yet employees are often reluctant to share negative information. This paper aims to gain insight into which employees will be reluctant to share negative information and when by drawing from the proactive motivation literature examining effects of proactive personality and motivational states on individuals’ willingness to share negative information.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional design was used, with data collected from a final sample of 393 individuals via an online survey. Hypotheses were tested using correlation and hierarchical multiple regression analyses.

Findings

Interactive effects indicate proactive individuals with accompanying high levels of role breadth self-efficacy (“can do”) or high levels of felt responsibility for constructive change (“reason to”) were less likely to be reluctant to share negative information. However, findings also suggest proactive individuals with lower levels of proactive motivation avoid sharing negative information.

Originality/value

The findings extend what is known about personality factors and employee willingness to share information to highlight which employees may be likely to avoid sharing negative information. The authors also examine the moderating influence of proactive motivational states on the relationships between proactive personality and reluctance to share negative information.
Measuring of intellectual capital investments in higher education: case of Latvia
Authors: Titko Jelena , Lapina Inga , Lentjušenkova Oksana
Published: August 2021

Purpose

Intellectual capital (IC) investments yield both financial and non-financial outcomes, and several groups of stakeholders are beneficiaries in the process. There are different approaches to appraisal of IC investments; most of them emphasise financial benefits. In turn, non-financial return is difficult to measure because of the lack of measurement indicators, as well as unavailability of accounting data and/or statistical data. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate non-financial return on investments in IC, based on the financial data of Latvian higher education institutions (HEI).

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology of Social Return on Investments (SROI) was applied. SROI metric is used to measure an expected return, considering the anticipated social benefits of an investment against its costs. The procedure is based on the principles of the “time value of money” concept and stakeholder management theory.

Findings

Non-financial outcomes (benefits) from investments into implementation of e-learning study process were defined, separately for each stakeholder group. Specific metrics for each outcome were determined, and the result was estimated (expressed in monetary form).

Research limitations/implications

There are different types of IC investments, but the authors of the given paper focussed on the digitalisation of study process, i.e. investments into the process of implementation and development of on-line studies were analysed. The proposed approach (SROI) is applied for measuring of IC investments, based on financial data of only one Latvian HEI.

Originality/value

SROI estimation for financial assessment of implemented innovations in Latvian higher education was made. This approach can help organisations to make decisions about IC investments, and the authors’ application of the methodology can be used as a pattern for HEI executives. This paper provides an example of the practical application of the methodology, using HEI real financial data.
Office relocation: changes in privacy fit, satisfaction and fatigue
Authors: Weber Clara , Gatersleben Birgitta
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to examine the effect of an office move (and associated changes in settings, protocols and autonomy) on changes in privacy fit, privacy-related coping appraisal as well as changes in satisfaction and fatigue. The study builds on Altman’s (1975) privacy regulation model and the cognitive appraisal theory as a transactional model of stress.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected over two points of measurement from 61 office workers who moved from a standard open-plan office to an office that is activity based. The first questionnaire was distributed six weeks prior to the office move and the follow-up questionnaire approximately eight months after. With its longitudinal design, this study extends past research by demonstrating the changing nature of privacy fit and revealing predictors of change in privacy fit and coping appraisal.

Findings

Cross-lagged autoregression analysis of change confirmed suggested predictors such as increase in variety of settings and in adherence of others to protocols that positively influenced post-move privacy fit. Further, change in coping appraisal post move was predicted by an increase in perceived environmental and behavioural flexibility. Changes in privacy fit and appraisal were associated with increases in job and workplace satisfaction and decreases in emotional and mental work fatigue post move.

Originality/value

Results could inform physical workplace design as well as cultural interventions in organisations. To the best of authors’ knowledge, this is the first study investigating the psychological process of privacy experience by using a transactional model of stress.
Strengthening financial integrity and combating economic crimes in the post-pandemic Caribbean: what lies ahead!
Authors: Clarke Rohan Duane
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to map key strategic concerns that Commonwealth Caribbean States will face in combating economic crimes and strengthening financial integrity in the post-pandemic era.

Design/methodology/approach

Horizon scanning was used to conduct a qualitative policy analysis of key regulatory developments in international anti-money laundering and combating the financing of terrorism (AML/CFTP) and tax governance, from the perspective of Commonwealth Caribbean countries.

Findings

This paper finds that the COVID-19 pandemic might widen several fault lines, along the Global North/South axis, in international AML/CFTP and tax regulatory governance. These include the “sustainable development” gap in AML/CFTP norm-making; making the Financial Action Task Force fit-for-purpose; renewed campaigns against “harmful tax competition”; and international commitment to scaling up technical assistance to combat economic crimes in developing countries. It questions the sustainability of the prevailing “levelling the playing field” regulatory approach to AML/CFTP and tax matters and whether serious consideration ought not to be given to mainstreaming “differential treatment” in international AML/CFTP and tax standards, for resource-strapped Caribbean countries.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is the first attempt to assess the strategic policy risks and challenges that will arise from balancing economic recovery and fighting economic crimes by small and vulnerable Commonwealth Caribbean States in the post-pandemic era.
COVID-19: accelerator or demolisher of the RME agenda?
Authors: Falkenstein Mathias , Hommel Ulrich , Snelson-Powell Annie
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to enrich the discussion at the intersection of responsible management education (RME) and the pandemic with new views that explore together the inhibitors of and drivers for a strengthening of RME in the emerging context. On the one hand, the pandemic crisis fosters the social role business schools play by supporting the enhancement of the RME rationale as an idealist foundational pillar of responsible business schools. On the other hand, it invites negative pragmatic responses in the light of financial and competitive disturbances that seem to enlarge the opportunity cost of moving RME forward.

Design/methodology/approach

The essay puts forward arguments that help dissect the inherent contradictions and synergies between idealistic and pragmatic business school strategies, as they are impacted by the dynamics of COVID-19. The analysis serves to frame a discourse over the extent to which the pandemic crisis is acting as an accelerator of the RME agenda or instead brings the risk of demolishing what has been achieved so far.

Findings

The authors form an opinion of the emerging factors that promote and inhibit RME in business schools as they grapple with the challenges of the pandemic whilst recognizing the inherent contradictions faced in their strategic choices and resourcing.

Originality/value

In light of the growing emphasis on RME in the literature, this study challenges the degree to which the agenda has already become firmly rooted as a core organizational and educational theme in business schools. By doing so, it delivers an assessment of RME progress as a relevant strategic lever for business schools, whilst nonetheless being at risk of back-sliding.
The awareness and attitude of Muslim consumer preference: the role of religiosity
Authors: Junaidi Junaidi
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This research investigates how religiosity (e.g. extrinsic and intrinsic) influences consumers’ awareness and attitudes, which subsequently influences consumers’ preferences for Muslims in the context of Islamic bank.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 480 Islamic bank consumers were recruited for online survey study. Structural equation modeling was used to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

Extrinsic religiosity has crucial role on consumers’ awareness and consumer attitudes. However, intrinsic religiosity has less effect on consumer attitudes, whereas consumer awareness plays an important role on consumer attitudes. Furthermore, mediator variables, such as consumers’ awareness and attitudes, have partial role to mediate religiosity and consumers’ preference.

Research limitations/implications

The recent study was limited to core of one region, therefore, future studies are needed to analyze consumers’ attitude and engagement in religious products and services such as Islamic brands image.

Practical implications

The stakeholders need to collaborate action to promote Islamic banks and the varying standard between their counterparts from the perspective of business and marketing.

Originality/value

The result of this study contributes to literature which has correlation with testing religion role toward Islamic bank. It also develops a new views into the determinants factor to influence consumers’ preferences.
Cash economy, criminality and cash regulation in Ethiopia
Authors: Gobena Messay Asgedom , Kebede Daniel Gebreegziabher
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the contribution of Ethiopia’s cash economy to financial crimes. It also investigates the regulation of cash in the context of controlling crime stemming from the cash economy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study relies on primary data generated from 20 interviewees drawn from the National Bank of Ethiopia, Ethiopian Financial Intelligence Center, selected commercial banks and law enforcement agencies and document review from government reports, media press and statutes, as well as secondary data from online and offline sources.

Findings

The cash-intensive nature of Ethiopia’s economy has enabled a significant amount of cash to circulate outside of the formal financial system. This money is partly to blame for the prevalence of criminal activities such as cash hoarding, corruption and illicit financial flows. To address the threat of crime posed by the cash economy, the Ethiopian Government has taken measures such as restricting cash withdrawals from financial institutions, limiting the amount of cash individuals can hold and demonetizing the banknotes. The measures enable the banks to collect the cash circulating outside of the formal financial sector. However, the effect of these measures on reducing future criminality remains uncertain. Improving the financial inclusivity of the country, specifically expanding basic financial products to the rural areas, digitalizing the country’s payment system, raising general financial awareness and establishing a strong financial consumer protection framework would play a critical role in reducing future criminality and transforming the cash-intensive into a cashless economy.

Originality/value

This paper provides a first-of-its-kind analytical perspective on the contribution of Ethiopia’s cash economy to criminal activity and the adequacy of countermeasures so far taken.
Improving internal service: identifying the roles of employee proficiency, adaptivity and proactivity
Authors: Martin Scott , Klimoski Richard , Henderson Alexandra
Published: August 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to determine the roles of employee proficiency, adaptivity and proactivity in predicting different aspects of internal service.

Design/methodology/approach

Managers evaluated 142 professional employees on proficiency, adaptivity and proactivity and about six weeks later 2–3 internal customers evaluated each of the employees on dimensions of internal service, namely reliability (i.e. performing dependably and accurately), assurance (i.e. knowledge, courtesy, and the ability to inspire trust and confidence), responsiveness (i.e. willingness to help customers and provide prompt service) and empathy (i.e. caring and providing individualized attention).

Findings

Employee proficiency and proactivity were the main predictors of delivering reliable services. Employee proficiency was the main predictor for creating a sense of assurance. Employee adaptivity was the main predictor of being viewed as responsive. Employee proactivity was the main predictor for establishing a sense of empathy.

Practical implications

In a given situation, some aspects of internal service will be more important than others. The results will enable organizations to improve internal service in a more effective and efficient manner by developing interventions that are targeted at the specific dimension of interest.

Originality/value

The authors identified the types of employee behaviors that are likely to be most effective in impacting different aspects of internal service.
The inevitability of essentializing culture in destination branding: the cases offikaandhygge
Authors: Caprioli Laura , Larson Mia , Ek Richard , Ooi Can-Seng
Published: August 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the re-presentation of the cultural phenomenahyggein Denmark andfikain Sweden in destination branding and address the inevitability of their essentialization through the branding process.

Design/methodology/approach

Three relevant semi-structured interviews with destination marketing organisation’s employees were conducted, as well as a content-based analysis of three social media channels (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram). A total of 465 posts in total were analysed (140 Facebook posts, 109 Twitter posts, 216 Instagram posts).

Findings

This study demonstrates how, when communicated through social media, intangible cultural assets are transformed into tangible elements. It explains why the re-presentation and place branding processes necessarily simplify and essentialize the destination.

Originality/value

Destination branding scholars have traditionally criticised the flattening and essentialization of culture in destination branding and have called for a more nuanced approach to presenting a destination. This paper situates destination branding as a process that necessitates the manipulation of the presentation of the destination, which inevitably essentializes the place; this is intended. Critical destination branding researchers need to rethink their criticisms and acknowledge the inherent essentialization goal of destination branding.