bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discrete mechanical model of lamellipodial actin network implements molecular clutch mechanism and generates arcs and microspikes
Authors: Rutkowski David M. , Vavylonis Dimitrios
Published: May 2021

Mechanical forces, actin filament turnover, and adhesion to the extracellular environment regulate lamellipodial protrusions. Computational and mathematical models at the continuum level have been used to investigate the molecular clutch mechanism, calculating the stress profile through the lamellipodium and around focal adhesions. However, the forces and deformations of individual actin filaments have not been considered while interactions between actin networks and actin bundles is not easily accounted with such methods. We develop a filament-level model of a lamellipodial actin network undergoing retrograde flow using 3D Brownian dynamics. Retrograde flow is promoted in simulations by pushing forces from the leading edge (due to actin polymerization), pulling forces (due to molecular motors), and opposed by viscous drag in cytoplasm and focal adhesions. Simulated networks have densities similar to measurements in prior electron micrographs. Connectivity between individual actin segments is maintained by permanent and dynamic crosslinkers. Remodeling of the network occurs via the addition of single actin filaments near the leading edge and via filament bond severing. We investigated how several parameters affect the stress distribution, network deformation and retrograde flow speed. The model captures the decrease in retrograde flow upon increase of focal adhesion strength. The stress profile changes from compression to extension across the leading edge, with regions of filament bending around focal adhesions. The model reproduces the observed reduction in retrograde flow speed upon exposure to cytochalasin D, which halts actin polymerization. Changes in crosslinker concentration and dynamics, as well as in the orientation pattern of newly added filaments demonstrate the model’s ability to generate bundles of filaments perpendicular (actin arcs) or parallel (microspikes) to the protruding direction.
Tropism, susceptibility, infectivity, and cytokine releases of differentiated human tonsillar epithelial cells by different Influenza viruses
Authors: Okda Faten , Sakr Ahmed , Webster Robert , Webby Richard
Published: May 2021

Human tonsil epithelium cells (HTEC) are a heterogeneous group of actively differentiating cells comprising stratified squamous epithelial and reticulated crypt cells with abundant keratin expression. We hypothesized that the tonsils are a primary site for influenza infection and sustained viral replication. Primary HTEC were grown using an air-liquid culture and infected apically with different influenza viruses (IVs) to measure viral growth kinetics. These cultures were highly differentiated, with subpopulations of heterogenous surface stratified squamous cells rich with both cilia and microvilli; these cells contained more α2,6-linked sialic acids, those preferentially bound by human IVs, than α2,3-linked avian like sialic acids. The stratified squamous cells were interrupted by patches of reticular epithelial cells rich in α2,3-linked sialic acids. The HTEC were permissive for influenza A and B virus replication. Following infection, a subset of cells, mostly ciliated cells, underwent apoptosis while others remained intact despite being positive for IV nucleoprotein. H3N2 virus antigen colocalized with non-ciliated cells while H1N1 virus antigen was mostly associated with ciliated cells. Exposure of HTECs to IVs triggers an early proinflammatory response that fluctuates between viruses. The H3N2 IV induces an early response that persists, whereas pH1N1 induces a primarily late response in HTECs. Our results implicated HTEC as a site for IV replication. The HTEC differentiated system provides a valuable in vitro model for studying cellular tropism, infectivity, cytokine responses and the pathogenesis of IVs.

IMPORTANCE

To develop an effective intervention against influenza, it is important to identify host factors affecting transmission, pathogenesis, and immune response. Tonsils are lymphoepithelial organs characterized by infiltration of B and T lymphocytes into the squamous epithelium of tonsillar crypts, beneath which germinal centers play key roles in antigen processing and immune response. The heterogenicity of HTECs as well as the sialic acid distributions supports the replication of IVs and may play a role in IV adaptation. Furthermore, Tonsillectomy is a surgical procedure in which tonsils are fully removed from the human throat and may contribute to the diverse outcomes among infected individuals.
A temperateSiphoviridaebacteriophage isolate from Siberian tiger enhances the virulence of Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcusaureus through distinct mechanisms
Authors: Yang Dan , Wang Shuang , Sun Erchao , Chen Yibao , Hua Lin , Zhou Rui , Chen Huanchun , Peng Zhong , Wu Bin
Published: May 2021

The emergence and worldwide spread of Methicillin-resistantStaphylococcus aureus(MRSA) poses a threat to human health. While bacteriophages are recognized as an effective alternative to treat infections caused by drug resistant pathogens, some bacteriophages in particular the temperate bacteriophage may also influence the virulence of the host bacteria in distinct ways. In this study, we isolated a bacteriophage vB_Saus_PHB21 from an epidermal sample of Siberian tiger (Panthera tigris altaica) using a MRSA strain SA14 as the indicator. Our following laboratory tests and whole genome sequencing analyses revealed that vB_Saus_PHB21 was a temperate bacteriophage belonging to theSiphoviridaefamily, and this bacteriophage did not contain any virulence genes. However, the integration of PHB21 genome into the host MRSA increased the bacterial capacities of cell adhesion, cell invasion, anti-phagocytosis and biofilm formation. Challenge of the lysogenic strain (SA14+) caused severer mortalities in bothGalleria mellonellaand mouse models. Mice challenged with SA14+showed more serious organ lesions and produced higher inflammatory cytokines (IL-8, IFN-γ and TNF-α) compared to those challenged with SA14. In mechanism, we found the integration of PHB21 genome caused the upregulated expression of many genes encoding products involved in bacterial biofilm formation, adherence and invasion to host cells, anti-phagocytosis, and virulence. This study may provide novel knowledge of “bacteria-phage-interactions” in MRSA.

IMPORTANCE

The interaction between bacteriophage and bacteria is like a “double-edged sword”: phages can either kill bacteria, or they may contribute to the bacterial fitness and virulence. In general, phages have positive impacts on bacterial fitness and virulence mainly because they carry antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs) and/or virulence factors encoding genes (VFGs) and they can spread these harmful genes to the host bacteria. However, we found those phages which do not harbor ARGs and/or VFGs may also enhance the bacterial fitness and virulence. In addition, we also found the integration of phage genomes may lead to the upregulated expression of virulence associated genes in bacteria. Our study may provide new insights to redefine the relationship between phage and bacteria, and the results may also remind a cautious way to set phage-therapy for bacterial infections, before which the safety of a phage intends to be used should be fully evaluated.
Highly functional Cellular Immunity in SARS-CoV-2 Non-Seroconvertors is associated with immune protection
Authors: Kilpeläinen Athina , Jimenez-Moyano Esther , Blanch-Lombarte Oscar , Ouchi Dan , Peña Ruth , Quirant-Sanchez Bibiana , Chamorro Anna , Blanco Ignacio , Martínez-Caceres Eva , Paredes Roger , Mateu Lourdes , Carrillo Jorge , Blanco Julià , Brander Christian , Massanella Marta , Clotet Bonaventura , Prado Julia G.
Published: May 2021

The role of T cells in the control of SARS-CoV-2 infection has been underestimated in favor of neutralizing antibodies. However, cellular immunity is essential for long-term viral control and protection from disease severity. To understand T-cell immunity in the absence of antibody generation we focused on a group of SARS-CoV-2 Non-Seroconvertors (NSC) recovered from infection. We performed an immune comparative analysis of SARS-CoV-2 infected individuals stratified by the absence or presence of seroconversion and disease severity. We report high levels of total naïve and low effector CD8+ T cells in NSC. Moreover, polyfunctional Nucleocapsid (NP)-specific CD8+ T-cell responses, as well as reduced levels of T-cell activation monitored by PD-1 and activation-induced markers, were distinctive immunological traits in NSC. Longitudinal data support the stability of the NSC phenotype over three months. Our results implicate highly functional SARS-CoV-2 Spike and NP T-cell responses with low immune activation in protection from disease severity in the absence of seroconversion.

To understand SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell immunity in the absence of seroconversion, we characterized immunological features of Non-Seroconvertors recovered from infection. Highly functional specific T-cell responses and low immune activation were determinants of immune protection from severe disease.
Gene by environment interaction mouse model reveals a functional role for 5-hydroxymethylcytosine in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Papale Ligia A. , Madrid Andy , Zhang Qi , Chen Kailei , Sak Lara , Keleş Sündüz , Alisch Reid S.
Published: May 2021

Mouse knockouts ofCntnap2exhibit altered neurodevelopmental behavior and a genome-wide disruption of 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC). Here we examined whether adultCntnap2heterozygous mice (Cntnap2+/-, lacking behavioral or neuropathological abnormalities) subjected to a prenatal stress would have disruptions in brain 5hmC levels and exhibit altered behaviors similar to the knockout mice. Adult prenatally stressedCntnap2+/-female mice showed repetitive behaviors and altered sociability, similar to the homozygote phenotype. Genomic profiling revealed disruptions in hippocampal and striatal 5hmC levels that were correlated to altered transcript levels of genes linked to these phenotypes (e.g., Reln,Dst,TrioandEpha5). Chromatin-immunoprecipitation coupled with high-throughput sequencing and hippocampal nuclear lysate pull-down data indicated that 5hmC abundance alters the binding of the transcription factor CLOCK near the promoters of differentially expressed genes (e.g., Palld,Gigyf1, andFry), providing a mechanistic role for 5hmC (disruption of transcription factor binding) in gene regulation of developmentally important genes.
A New Assay Capturing Chromosome Fusions Shows a Protection Trade-off at Telomeres and NHEJ Vulnerability to Low Density Ionising Radiation
Authors: Pobiega Sabrina , Alibert Olivier , Marcand Stéphane
Published: May 2021

Chromosome fusions threaten genome integrity and promote cancer by engaging catastrophic mutational processes, namely chromosome breakage-fusion-bridge cycles and chromothripsis. Chromosome fusions are frequent in cells incurring telomere dysfunctions or those exposed to DNA breakage. Their occurrence and therefore their contribution to genome instability in unchallenged cells is unknown. To address this issue, we constructed a genetic assay able to capture and quantify rare chromosome fusions in budding yeast. This chromosome fusion capture assay (CFC) relies on the controlled inactivation of one centromere to rescue unstable dicentric chromosome fusions. It is sensitive enough to quantify the basal rate of end-to-end chromosome fusions occurring in wild-type cells. These fusions depend on canonical nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ). Our results show that chromosome end protection results from a trade-off at telomeres between positive effectors (Rif2, Sir4, telomerase) and a negative effector partially antagonizing them (Rif1). The CFC assay also captures NHEJ-dependent chromosome fusions induced by ionising radiation. It provides evidence for chromosomal rearrangements stemming from a single photon-matter interaction.
Transcriptome analysis of heterogeneity in mouse model of metastatic breast cancer
Authors: Ionkina Anastasia A. , Balderrama-Gutierrez Gabriela , Ibanez Kristian J. , Phan Steve Huy D. , Cortez Angelique N. , Mortazavi Ali , Prescher Jennifer A.
Published: May 2021

Cancer metastasis is a complex process involving the spread of malignant cells from a primary tumor to distal organs. Understanding this cascade at a mechanistic level could provide critical new insights into the disease and potentially reveal new avenues for treatment. Transcriptome profiling of spontaneous cancer models is an attractive method to examine the dynamic changes accompanying tumor cell spread. However, such studies are often complicated by the underlying heterogeneity of the cell types involved. Here we performed a comprehensive analysis of tumor heterogeneity and organ tropism during breast cancer metastasis. We created a suite of organ-derived metastatic cell lines from the MMTV-PyMT mouse model. Bulk sequencing analyses uncovered tissue-specific genes across the different metastatic and primary tumor samples. We further investigated intratumoral heterogeneity by performing single-cell RNA-seq. These data revealed transcriptomes that may contribute to sub-clonal evolution during cancer progression. Collectively, the organ-derived cell lines provide a platform for comprehensive studies of metastatic breast cancer progression.
Immunolocalization studies of vimentin and ACE2 on the surface of cells exposed to SARS-CoV-2 Spike proteins
Authors: Lalioti Vasiliki , González-Sanz Silvia , Lois-Bermejo Irene , González-Jiménez Patricia , Viedma-Poyatos Álvaro , Merino Andrea , A. Pajares María , Pérez-Sala Dolores
Published: May 2021

The Spike protein from SARS-CoV-2 mediates docking of the virus onto cells and contributes to viral invasion. Several cellular receptors are involved in SARS-CoV-2 Spike docking at the cell surface, including ACE2 and neuropilin. The intermediate filament protein vimentin has been reported to be present at the surface of certain cells and act as a co-receptor for several viruses; furthermore, its potential involvement in interactions with Spike proteins has been proposed. Here we have explored the binding of Spike protein constructs to several cell types using low-temperature immunofluorescence approaches in live cells, to minimize internalization. Incubation of cells with tagged Spike S or Spike S1 subunit led to discrete dotted patterns at the cell surface, which showed scarce colocalization with a lipid raft marker, but consistent coincidence with ACE2. Under our conditions, vimentin immunoreactivity appeared as spots or patches unevenly distributed at the surface of diverse cell types. Remarkably, several observations including potential antibody internalization and adherence to cells of vimentin-positive structures present in the extracellular medium exposed the complexity of vimentin cell surface immunoreactivity, which requires careful assessment. Notably, overall colocalization of Spike and vimentin signals markedly varied with the cell type and the immunodetection sequence. In turn, vimentin-positive spots moderately colocalized with ACE2; however, a particular enrichment was detected at elongated structures positive for acetylated tubulin, consistent with primary cilia, which also showed Spike binding. Thus, these results suggest that vimentin-ACE2 interaction could occur at selective locations near the cell surface, including ciliated structures, which can act as platforms for SARS-CoV-2 docking.
Combining X-rays, neutrons and electrons, and NMR, for precision and accuracy in structure–function studies
Authors: Helliwell John R.
Published: May 2021

The distinctive features of the physics-based probes used in understanding the structure of matter focusing on biological sciences, but not exclusively, are described in the modern context. This is set in a wider scope of holistic biology and the scepticism about `reductionism', what is called the `molecular level', and how to respond constructively. These topics will be set alongside the principles of accuracy and precision, and their boundaries. The combination of probes and their application together is the usual way of realizing accuracy. The distinction between precision and accuracy can be blurred by the predictive force of a precise structure, thereby lending confidence in its potential accuracy. These descriptions will be applied to the comparison of cryo and room-temperature protein crystal structures as well as the solid state of a crystal and the same molecules studied by small-angle X-ray scattering in solution and by electron microscopy on a sample grid. Examples will include: time-resolved X-ray Laue crystallography of an enzyme Michaelis complex formed directly in a crystal equivalent toin vivo; a new iodoplatin for radiation therapy predicted from studies of platin crystal structures; and the field of colouration of carotenoids, as an effective assay of function,i.e.their colouration, when unbound and bound to a protein. The complementarity of probes, as well as their combinatory use, is then at the foundation of real (biologically relevant), probe-artefacts-free, structure–function studies. The foundations of our methodologies are being transformed by colossal improvements in technologies of X-ray and neutron sources and their beamline instruments, as well as improved electron microscopes and NMR spectrometers. The success of protein structure prediction from gene sequence recently reported by CASP14 also opens new doors to change and extend the foundations of the structural sciences.
Does supervisor gender moderate the mediation of job embeddedness between LMX and job satisfaction?
Authors: Stewart Jodie Louise , Wiener Karl Kilian Konrad
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the quality of the relationship between a supervisor and their subordinate, conceptualised as leader member exchange (LMX), and the mediating influence of subordinate’s job embeddedness on job satisfaction. The LMX model considered the four-gender dominant leadership style facets, female – affect and loyalty (communal), and male – contribution and professional respect (agentic). Social role theory was applied to explain societies influence on leadership style. The moderating influence of supervisor gender on the relationship of LMX facets and subordinate embeddedness is investigated.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional survey study of 213 self-selected employed participants investigated the mediation of job embeddedness LMX and job embeddedness and the moderation impact of supervisor gender on this mediation.

Findings

Job embeddedness mediated the relationship between all four facets of LMX and job satisfaction. Supervisor gender did not moderate the relationships of the four LMX facets and job embeddedness. These findings highlight the potential impact of a homogeniuos sample in relation to industry type and culture as this may impact on the findings. That is, participants in this study were predominantly females working in female dominant industries.

Originality/value

This study builds on the work of Collinset al.(2014) who examined the moderating impact of subordinate gender on the mediating relationship of job embeddedness on the relationship between LMX facets and job satisfaction. Previously, the gender role of supervisors on this relationship was not explored.
A housing price index with the improvement-value adjusted repeated sales (IVARS) method
Authors: Yiu Chung Yim Edward , Cheung Ka Shing
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The repeat sales house price index (HPI) has been widely used to measure house price movements on the assumption that the quality of properties does not change over time. This study aims to develop a novel improvement-value adjusted repeat sales (IVARS) HPI to remedy the bias owing to the constant-quality assumption.

Design/methodology/approach

This study compares the performance of the IVARS model with the traditional hedonic price model and the repeat sales model by using half a million repeated sales pairs of housing transactions in the Auckland Region of New Zealand, and by a simulation approach.

Findings

The results demonstrate that using the information on improvement values from mass appraisal can significantly mitigate the time-varying attribute bias. Simulation analysis further reveals that if the improvement work done is not considered, the repeat sales HPI may be overestimated by 2.7% per annum. The more quality enhancement a property has, the more likely it is that the property will be resold.

Practical implications

This novel index may have the potential to enable the inclusion of home condition reporting in property value assessments prior to listing open market sales.

Originality/value

The novel IVARS index can help gauge house price movements with housing quality changes.
Measuring the knowledge and attitudes of physicians towards patients with HIV/AIDS: study of Anatolian group
Authors: Kaya Safak , Arac Esref , Akgul Fethiye , Comoglu Senol , Kaya Sehmuz , Araç Songul , Yildiz Yesim , Buyuktuna Seyit Ali , Kayaaslan Bircan , Parlak Emine , Baysal Birol , Karakecili Faruk , Balik Elif Zelal , Akkoç Ali , Ozdemir Kevser , Kavak Seyhmus , Dogan Suat Ali , Günay Emrah , Karabela Semsi Nur , Cabalak Mehmet , Cag Yasemin , Avci Veli , Durdu Yasemin , Kaya Zehra , Kilic Damla , Yerlikaya Halis , Tarakçı Hüseyin , Mentes Osman , Sağmak Tartar Ayse , Kose Adem , Alakus Omer Faruk , Aktas Ulas , Komek Halil , Aksoz Selcuk
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to determine the knowledge and attitudes of the physicians regarding human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)/acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS), to emphasize that these patients exist and they will exist in the future and to raise awareness so as to prevent that their rights to treatment are revoked.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey was conducted via a link sent through an online system. Random physicians from 81 cities of the country were invited to the survey. The survey has 41 questions regarding knowledge and attitudes in total, including epidemiological information such as age, gender and title.

Findings

A total of 3,107 physicians has voluntarily participated in the study. In total, 2,195 (70.7%) are internal physicians and 912 (29.3%) are surgical physicians among the participant physicians. In total, 1,452 (46.7%) of the participants are specialist physicians, 608 (19.6%) of the participants are practising physician and the rest of it is physician assistants, academicians and dentists, respectively.

Originality/value

In this study, it has been found out that the physicians have a lack of knowledge on HIV/AIDS and they adopt a discriminatory attitude towards HIV-positive persons. HIV-positive patients who are exposed to discrimination and scared of being uncovered refrain from applying to hospitals for treatment, which puts public health into jeopardy due to the high viral load and these patients are faced with difficulties in coping with both medical and emotional load of the disease.
What should you be talking about? The communication pathway to sustainable supply chain contagion
Authors: Mir Saif , Fugate Brian S. , Johnson Jonathan L. , Blessley Misty
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand communication pathways and factors that cause sustainability initiatives to become contagious from downstream to upstream members of a supply chain, which is termed sustainable supply chain contagion (SSCC).

Design/methodology/approach

This study takes an inductive, grounded theory approach, while utilizing established theories.

Findings

The decision to implement a sustainability initiative depends on the business case for the organization. Importantly, the findings outline several network and communication factors that overcome the weak business case and, therefore, foster SSCC. Based on these findings, a communication network model of SSCC is outlined. Network factors include the contagion pathways, the role of sustainability and top management teams and communication channels. Communication factors include the alignment of sustainability initiatives with departmental objectives, the articulation of goals and assuring the endurance of a sustainability initiative.

Practical implications

Managers can utilize the proposed model to create conditions that strengthen the business case of a proposed sustainability initiative, thus fostering SSCC. The presented findings reveal different tactics that can assist organizations in communicating sustainability initiatives in a persuasive manner, to permit the proliferation of sustainability across the supply chain.

Originality/value

This research enables a multilevel examination of the factors influencing SSCC.
Influence of organizational life cycle on performance management design in the software industry
Authors: Baiochi Salete Verginia Fontana , Guerino Guilherme Corredato , Leal Gislaine Camila Lapasini , Balancieri Renato , Cotrim Syntia Lemos , Galdamez Edwin Vladimir Cardoza
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This work investigates the influence of the organizational life cycle (OLC) on the performance management system (PMS) design and the performance of projects in Brazilian industries of software development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study employed descriptive statistics and structural equations modeling on the data and information obtained from 115 Brazilian industries of software development with maturity in project management. Data collection was carried out through a survey applied to managers of the organizations mapped and certified by management maturity models Brazilian software process improvement (MPS-BR) or capability maturity model integration (CMMI).

Findings

Results revealed that OLC influences the PMS design dimensions (scope, aggregation and opportunity) and project performance. Regarding effects observed on the performance of projects, only the scope dimension's influence was validated by the analyses, and the other dimensions were not significant considering the investigated sample.

Originality/value

The paper shows evidence of how OLC can influence PMS design and project performance. The analyses can help managers to improve their actions in the PMS design, increasing confidence and generating more robust and sustainable results in the business model.
Supply chain quality management impact on organization performance: results from an international survey
Authors: Fernandes Ana Cristina , Vilhena Estela , Oliveira Rui , Sampaio Paulo , Carvalho Maria Sameiro
Published: May 2021

Purpose

In this paper, Supply Chain Quality Management dimensions are empirically tested in order to understand their impact on the organization performance based on the Balanced Scorecard perspectives.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to validate the theoretical model proposed, an empirical study was carried out, supported by a large-scale questionnaire and statistical analysis.

Findings

Results show that all the Supply Chain Quality Management dimensions have a significant positive correlation in the four Balanced Scorecard performance perspectives. Product/service quality and quality culture dimensions were the ones that presented the highest average scores. No significant differences were detected in any dimension for the different regions considered in this study.

Originality/value

The present research can help companies to achieve a better performance in the analyzed perspectives: customer, financial, internal process, and learning and growth. This work also contributes to the existing body of knowledge on Supply Chain Quality Management, analyzing its impact on organization performance, considering a more embracing perspective.
High death rate of older persons from COVID-19 in Quebec (Canada) long-term care facilities: chronology and analysis
Authors: Beaulieu Marie , Cadieux Genesse Julien , St-Martin Kevin
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Among the ten Canadian provinces, Quebec has experienced the most significant excess mortality of older persons during COVID-19. This practice paper aims to present the chronology of events leading to this excess mortality in long-term care facilities (LTCFs) and a comprehensive analysis of the phenomenon.

Design/methodology/approach

Documented content from three official sources: daily briefings by the Quebec Premier, a report from the Canadian Armed Forces and a report produced by Royal Society of Canada experts were analysed.

Findings

Two findings emerge: the lack of preparation in LTCFs and a critical shortage of staff. Indeed, the massive transfer of older persons from hospitals to LTCFs, combined with human resources management and a critical shortage of permanent staff before and during the crisis, generates unhealthy living conditions in LTCFs.

Originality/value

To our knowledge, this paper is the first to analyse official Quebec and Canadian statements concerning COVID-19 from the angle of quality of life and protection of older adults in LTCFs.
“CARE” in social media: perceptions of reputation in the healthcare sector
Authors: Chaudhri Vidhi , Oomen Tessa , Pridmore Jason , Joon Alexandra
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Guided by the growing importance of social-mediated organisational communication, this study examines how communication professionals within healthcare organisations perceive and respond to the reputation impacts of social media on the organisation’s reputation. Although the healthcare sector finds itself in the midst of a (continually) transforming landscape characterised by large amounts of digital health (mis)information and an empowered “patient-as-consumer”, little is known about how professionals in this sector understand the changes and respond to them. Moreover, much extant scholarship on the topic is published in specialised health or medical journals and does not explicitly address the communication implications for healthcare organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with communication professionals responsible for social media across eight hospitals in the Netherlands. The sample included two participants working as communication consultants/social media advisors for healthcare organisations. In all, 15 interviews were conducted.

Findings

Building on interviewee perspectives, the authors advance the CARE (Control, Access(ability), Responsive(ness) and Engagement) model of social-mediated communication, highlighting the dualistic characteristics of each dimension. This model is built upon a careful analysis of healthcare professional responses. In an always-on environment, understanding and managing the tensions within the authors’ model may be decisive to the reputation implications of social media use.

Originality/value

Understanding the tensions within each dimension lends a more nuanced perspective on the potential impact(s) of social media as experienced by professionals in the field. In shifting away from a binary, either/or approach, the paper contributes to explicating the complexities of a pervasive phenomenon (i.e. social-mediated communication) and its multifaceted impacts on the healthcare sector.
IoT-BIM-based digital transformation in facilities management: a conceptual model
Authors: Dahanayake Kalani Chamika , Sumanarathna Nipuni
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the opportunities of integrating internet of things (IoT) with building information modelling (BIM) to support the digital transformation of facilities management (FM). In this regard, a conceptual framework is proposed to implement IoT-BIM-based smart FM in buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi-systematic literature review was conducted to examine the opportunities of integrating IoT-BIM-based smart FM.

Findings

BIM models are seldom used during the operations stage, and the comprehensive digital information developed during the design and construction stage is not efficiently used throughout the building’s life cycle. Therefore, this paper suggests that IoT-BIM can be effectively integrated into six FM functions, namely, energy management, operations and maintenance management, space management, FM project management, emergency management and quality management. IoT-BIM provides a beneficial platform for the digital transformation in FM, optimising the effectiveness and efficiency of buildings.

Originality/value

As a recent approach, the integration of BIM with IoT has created a new direction for moving from traditional FM to digitalise smart FM. However, the adaptation of IoT-BIM concept, particularly for FM, is yet to be explored. Hence, this paper contributes to the IoT-BIM research in the FM domain by highlighting six IoT-BIM-based smart FM for digital transformation in FM.
Is shame-proneness the missing link between social norms, policymaking and productive entrepreneurship?
Authors: Ojha Atma Prakash , Nandakumar M.K.
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to establish the need to study the shame-proneness trait of entrepreneurs – what is it and why is it important to study.

Design/methodology/approach

In this conceptual paper, the authors argue that shame-proneness is an important understudied trait of entrepreneurs and put up a case for further research. The authors argue that shame-proneness moderates the effect of social acceptability on opportunity exploitation decisions. The authors also argue that productive entrepreneurship can be promoted and unproductive entrepreneurship can be prevented through policy intervention, and the level of intervention can be determined by knowing the shame-proneness level of entrepreneurs.

Findings

The key argument is the following: an entrepreneur is homo economicus and homo sociologicus, i.e. she is driven both by rational economic value consideration and by the prevalent social norms, which influence opportunity exploitation decisions. Since shame enforces compliance with social norms, it is vital to study entrepreneurs' shame-proneness to understand entrepreneurial founding across different regions. Knowing the level of shame-proneness of entrepreneurs in a given region would help the government devise effective interventions to promote productive entrepreneurship and deter unproductive or destructive entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

This paper is an original creation of the authors.
The applicability of blockchain technology in healthcare contexts to contain COVID-19 challenges
Authors: Hasan Mohammad Raihanul , Deng Shiming , Sultana Neegar , Hossain Muhammed Zakir
Published: May 2021

Purpose

Blockchain technology, a key feature of the fourth industrial revolution, is receiving widespread attention and exploration around the world. Taking the coronavirus pandemic as an example, the purpose of this study to examine the application of blockchain technology from the perspective of epidemic prevention and control.

Design/methodology/approach

Exploring multiple case studies in the Chinese context at various stages of deployment, this study documents a framework about how some of the major challenges associated with COVID-19 can be alleviated by leveraging blockchain technology.

Findings

The case studies and framework presented herein show that utilization of blockchain acts as an enabler to facilitate the containment of several COVID-19 challenges. These challenges include the following: complications associated with medical data sharing; breaches of patients' data privacy; absence of real-time monitoring tools; counterfeit medical products and non-credible suppliers; fallacious insurance claims; overly long insurance claim processes; misappropriations of funds; and misinformation, rumors and fake news.

Originality/value

Blockchain is ushering in a new era of innovation that will lay the foundation for a new paradigm in health care. As there are currently insufficient studies pertaining to real-life case studies of blockchain and COVID-19 interaction, this study adds to the literature on the role of blockchain technology in epidemic control and prevention.
Linking marketing and supply chain management in the strategy of demand chains via a review of literature
Authors: Bai Bingfeng , Gao Junjun , Lv Yang
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the links among these demand chain constructs by conducting a full-scale systematic review of all demand chain management (DCM) literature reviews published in marketing and operations management journals from 2013 to 2020. Marketing and supply chain management are central to DCM; thus, this study briefly describes the contributions to knowledge provided by the papers contained in this issue. In addition, some additional areas of research in which the DCM can be gainfully deployed are outlined.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper makes a systematic literature review of 70 literature samples by means of content analysis and comprehensive analysis. These approaches guarantee a replicable, rigorous and transparent research process and minimize researcher bias. The analytical categories required for the content analysis are defined along the constructs of marketing and supply chain management.

Findings

As can be expected, this paper highlights the key role of the two constructs in the strategy of DCM. In this light, the paper claims to provide evidence of a link between the constructs of marketing and supply chain management. This paper reviews the connotation of DCM through literature review, distinguishes the relationship between DCM and supply chain management from a strategic management perspective and discusses the future research direction.

Research limitations/implications

This study assesses the link between the strategic constructs of marketing and supply chain management through research embedded in literature reviews, pinpointing research gaps and potential future research directions in the field. Contributing to DCM theory building, a thorough review provides qualitative comparison of the link between marketing and supply chain management.

Originality/value

Although some literature reviews have been conducted in the past on the constructs of DCM, no full review of literature reviews aiming to test a strategic theoretical link in the demand chain related to supply chain and marketing.
Herding behavior and stock market conditions
Authors: Ah Mand Abdollah , Janor Hawati , Abdul Rahim Ruzita , Sarmidi Tamat
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate whether market conditions have an effect on investors’ propensity to herd in an emerging economy’s stock market. Additionally, given the lack of research on Islamic behavioral finance, the authors further investigate if the herding phenomenon is distinct in Islamic versus conventional stocks.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used daily data for the period of 1995–2016 according to the herding behavior model of Chang et al. (2000), which relies on cross-sectional absolute deviation of returns.

Findings

Findings reveal the herding behavior of investors among Shariah-compliant during up and down market exits with non-linear relationship to the market return, while for conventional stocks herding behavior does not exist with linear nor nonlinear relationships during the up and down market. Furthermore, for the whole market, herding behavior only exists during upmarket with a nonlinear relationship to the market return. However, this relationship is not significant. Moreover, the results of this study are robust with respect to the effect of the Asian and global financial crisis.

Practical implications

The findings are useful for investors to identify which market conditions are associated with rational and irrational behavior of investors.

Originality/value

Most of the theoretical and empirical studies on herding behavior have focused on developed countries. Only a few studies have paid attention to the herding behavior in Islamic financial markets, particularly in the context of an emerging market such as Malaysia. This study fills this void.
Dyeing of cotton fabric with Euclea divinorum extract using response surface optimization method
Authors: Manyim Scolastica , Kiprop Ambrose Kipchumba , Mwasiagi Josphat Igadwa , Achisa Cleophas Mecha , Odero Mark Peter
Published: May 2021

Purpose

The majority of the synthetic dyes have been found to be non-biodegradable, toxic and carcinogenic. As a result, there has been a growing trend toward the use of natural dyes as alternates to synthetic dyes. This shift calls for more research to come up with more sources of natural dyes to satisfy their increasing demand. Euclea divinorum plant has been used traditionally as a source of dye, however, its textile dyeing properties have not been studied. This study aims to determine the textile dyeing properties of E. divinorum extract.

Design/methodology/approach

Optimization of dyeing conditions of Euclea divinorum natural dye extract on the cotton fabric was done using response surface methodology (RSM). The combined effects of examined dyeing conditions on the relative color strength (K/S) were studied using a central composite experimental design. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was used to determine the significance of the statistical model generated for the study. Mordanting effects were measured using standard ISO wash, rub and lightfastness tests.

Findings

The optimum dyeing conditions were found to be 68 min, pH 3.3 and 82°C with color strength 0.609. Temperature and pH showed some interaction effects during the dyeing experiments. The predicted optimum K/S value was validated experimentally using the optimum conditions and was found to be in agreement with the experimental values. All the metallic mordants used enhanced the color strength and provided a variety of brown shades, therefore, a suitable alternative for the toxic synthetic dyes.

Originality/value

Optimization of dyeing conditions of Euclea divinorum dye on cotton using RSM and mordanting at optimal conditions has not been done elsewhere.
Managing glitches in collaborative product development with suppliers
Authors: Merminod Valéry , Le Dain Marie Anne , Frank Alejandro Germán
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to propose that knowing in practice can be used as a mechanism to enhance social exchange in collaborative new product development (NPD) with suppliers to reduce glitches. Practic00es of inter-organizational knowing should consider the levels of supplier involvement adopted.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper studies two opposite situations of supplier involvement in NPD projects, namely, white and black box configurations. This paper adopts a qualitative comparative analysis method to identify necessary and sufficient configurations of knowing in practice in 36 projects from 3 different companies.

Findings

Social exchange is important even when the NPD collaboration is based on contractual relationships as in white and grey box collaborations. There are different combinations of practices for inter-organizational knowing that can limit glitches in each supplier configuration. This paper proposes a theoretical model that explains these relationships and contributions to the reduction of glitches.

Originality/value

This paper combines social exchange theory with knowing in practice in the supplier involvement context. The theoretical model contributes to the understanding of knowing in practice in white and black box configurations.
The pragmatic functions of religious expressions in Najdi Arabic
Authors: al-Rojaie Yousef Ibrahim
Published: May 2021

Purpose

This study attempts to identify and analyze the pragmatic functions of religious expressions, that is, invocations that include the name of Allah (God), in naturally occurring social interactions in Najdi Arabic, which is spoken in Central Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the speech act theory and politeness model, an analysis of the data illustrates that religious expressions, in addition to their prototypical religious meanings and uses in everyday interactions, are employed to communicate a wide range of pragmatic functions.

Findings

These include signaling the end of a conversation, persuading, mitigating and hedging, showing agreement and approval, reinforcing emphasis, expressing emotions, seeking protection from the evil eye, conveying skepticism and ambiguity, expressing humor and sarcasm, and showing respect and honor. The embedded multifunctional dimension of religious expressions in the present data is interpreted as serving as a politeness marker with which speakers promote both positive politeness (by showing solidarity, claiming common grounds, and building rapport) and negative politeness (by reducing imposition and emphasizing personal autonomy).

Originality/value

This study further highlights the interplay between religion, culture, and language use in Najdi Arabic.
Analysis of the frequency dependence characteristics of wave attenuation and velocity dispersion using a poroelastic model with mesoscopic and microscopic heterogeneities
Authors: He Y.‐X. , Wang S.X. , Sun C. , Tang G.Y. , Zhu W.
Published: May 2021

Seismic waves passing through partially saturated porous rocks produce pressure gradients in the fluid phase, and, hence, the resulting fluid flow is accompanied by various length scales. The major mechanism responsible for seismic attenuation and dispersion is arguably known as wave‐induced fluid flow between inhomogeneities of microscopic, mesoscopic and macroscopic scales. Previous studies have revealed that differentiating the influence of heterogeneities at various scales on wave attenuation within seismic exploration and sonic frequencies, nevertheless, is very difficult. This is because wave attenuation mechanisms due to different heterogeneities are practically impossible to be unrelated. Therefore, it is important for a more quantitative interpretation of the relative contribution of inter‐dependent energy loss mechanisms through improved understanding of the combined influences associated to the microscopic squirt flow and mesoscopic fluid flow. We introduce a scaled poroelastic model to evaluate frequency‐dependent attenuation and velocity dispersion characteristics by considering the combined presence of microscopic and mesoscopic heterogeneities. To do so, the capillarity effects are incorporated into the poroelastic model with random distributions of the sizes of mesoscopic‐scale heterogeneities. A range of pertinent scenarios are calculated, and the acoustic properties indicate wave attenuation decreases whereas the phase velocity increases corresponding to additional capillary forces. Meanwhile, numerical results of the proposed model were compared with experimental measurements of a tight sandstone to examine its validity. Results of numerical simulations suggest that seismic reflections produce more complicated signatures in the presence of an interbedded structure of a reservoir exhibiting velocity dispersion. Therefore, the proposed procedure can help in assessing the sensitivities of frequency‐dependent seismic signatures to reservoir fluid mobility and patch heterogeneities.