bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A multi-level account of hippocampal function from behaviour to neurons
Authors: Mok Robert M. , Love Bradley C.
Published: June 2022

A complete neuroscience requires multi-level theories that address phenomena ranging from higher-level cognitive behaviors to activities within a cell. A levels-of-mechanism approach that decomposes a higher-level model of cognition and behavior into component mechanisms provides a coherent and richer understanding of the system than any level alone. Toward this end, we decomposed a cognitive model into neuron-like units using aneural flockingapproach that parallels recurrent hippocampal activity. Neural flocking coordinates units that collectively form higher-level mental constructs. The decomposed model suggested how brain-scale neural populations coordinate to form assemblies encoding concept and spatial representations, and why so many neurons are needed for robust performance at the cognitive level. This multi-level explanation provides a way to understand how cognition and symbol-like representations are supported by coordinated neural populations (assemblies) formed through learning.
Ribosome display ofN-linked glycoproteins in cell-free extracts
Authors: Chung Sean S. , Bidstrup Erik J. , Hershewe Jasmine M. , Warfel Katherine F. , Jewett Michael C. , DeLisa Matthew P.
Published: June 2022

Ribosome display is a powerfulin vitromethod for the selection and directed evolution of proteins expressed from combinatorial libraries. However, because ribosome display is typically performed with standardin vitrotranslation reagents, the ability to display proteins with complex post-translational modifications such as glycosylation is limited. To address this technological gap, here we developed a set of complementary methods for producing stalled ribosome complexes that displayed asparagine-linked (N-linked) glycoproteins in conformations amenable to downstream functional and glyco-structural interrogation. The ability to generate glycosylated ribosome-nascent chain (glycoRNC) complexes was enabled by integrating SecM-mediated translation arrest with methods for cell-free synthesis ofN-glycoproteins. This integration yielded a novel capability for translating and displaying target proteins modified efficiently and site-specifically with differentN-glycan structures. Moreover, the encoding mRNAs remained stably attached to stalled ribosomes both before and after biopanning, thereby providing the genotype– glycophenotype link between an arrested glycoprotein and its RNA message. We anticipate that our method will enable selection and evolution ofN-linked glycoproteins with advantageous biological and biophysical properties.
PKC isoforms activate LRRK1 kinase by phosphorylating conserved residues (Ser1064, Ser1074 and Thr1075) within the CORBGTPase domain
Authors: Malik Asad U , Karapetsas Athanasios , Nirujogi Raja S. , Chatterjee Deep , Phung Toan K. , Wightman Melanie , Gourlay Robert , Morrice Nick , Mathea Sebastian , Knapp Stefan , Alessi Dario R
Published: June 2022

Leucine-rich-repeat-kinase 1 (LRRK1) and its homologue LRRK2 are multidomain kinases possessing a ROC-CORA-CORBcontaining GTPase domain and phosphorylate distinct Rab proteins. LRRK1 loss of function mutations cause the bone disorder osteosclerotic metaphyseal dysplasia, whereas LRRK2 missense mutations that enhance kinase activity cause Parkinson’s disease. Previous work suggested that LRRK1 but not LRRK2, is activated via a Protein Kinase C (PKC)-dependent mechanism. Here we demonstrate that phosphorylation and activation of LRRK1 in HEK293 cells is blocked by PKC inhibitors including LXS-196 (Darovasertib), a compound that has entered clinical trials. We show multiple PKC isoforms phosphorylate and activate recombinant LRRK1 in a manner reversed by phosphatase treatment. PKCα unexpectedly does not activate LRRK1 by phosphorylating the kinase domain, but instead phosphorylates a cluster of conserved residues (Ser1064, Ser1074 and Thr1075) located within a region of the CORBdomain of the GTPase domain. These residues are positioned at the equivalent region of the LRRK2 DK helix reported to stabilize the kinase domain αC-helix in the active conformation. Thr1075 represents an optimal PKC site phosphorylation motif and its mutation to Ala, blocked PKC-mediated activation of LRRK1. A triple Glu mutation of Ser1064/Ser1074/Thr1075 to mimic phosphorylation, enhanced LRRK1 kinase activity ~3-fold. From analysis of available structures, we postulate that phosphorylation of Ser1064, Ser1074 and Thr1075 activates LRRK1 by promoting interaction and stabilization of the aC-helix on the kinase domain. This study provides new fundamental insights into the mechanism controlling LRRK1 activity and reveals a novel unexpected activation mechanism.
Anopheles albimanus is a potential alphavirus vector in the Americas
Authors: Terradas Gerard , Novelo Mario , Metz Hillery C. , Brustolin Marco , Rasgon Jason L.
Published: June 2022

Despite its ecological flexibility and geographical co-occurrence with human pathogens, little is known about the ability for Anopheles albimanus to transmit arboviruses. To address this gap, we challenged An. albimanus females with four alphaviruses and one flavivirus and monitored progression of infections. We found this species is an efficient vector of the alphaviruses Mayaro virus, O’nyong-nyong virus, and Sindbis virus, though the latter two do not currently exist in its habitat range. An. albimanus was able to become infected with Chikungunya virus, but virus dissemination was rare (indicating the presence of a midgut escape barrier), and no mosquito transmitted. Mayaro virus rapidly established disseminated infections in An. albimanus females and was detected in the saliva of a substantial proportion of infected mosquitoes. Consistent with previous work in other anophelines, we find that An. albimanus is refractory to infection with flaviviruses, a phenotype that did not depend on midgut-specific barriers. Our work demonstrates that An. albimanus may be a vector of neglected emerging human pathogens and adds to recent evidence that anophelines are competent vectors for diverse arboviruses.
Nanotopography modulates intracellular excitable systems through cytoskeleton actuation
Authors: Yang Qixin , Miao Yuchuan , Banerjee Parijat , Hourwitz Matt J. , Hu Minxi , Qing Quan , Iglesias Pablo A. , Devreotes Peter N. , Fourkas John T. , Losert Wolfgang
Published: June 2022

Cellular sensing of most environmental cues involves receptors that affect a signal-transduction excitable network (STEN), which is coupled to a cytoskeletal excitable network (CEN). We show that the mechanism of sensing of nanoridges is fundamentally different. CEN activity occurs preferentially on nanoridges, whereas STEN activity is constrained between nanoridges. In the absence of STEN, waves disappear, but long-lasting F-actin puncta persist along the ridges. When CEN is suppressed, wave propagation is no longer constrained by nanoridges. A computational model reproduces these experimental observations. Our findings indicate that nanotopography is sensed directly by CEN, whereas STEN is only indirectly affected due to a CEN-STEN feedback loop. These results explain why texture sensing is robust, and acts cooperatively with multiple other guidance cues in complex microenvironments.

One-Sentence Summary

Cells sense nanotopography directly through their cytoskeletal dynamics, in a reversal of traditional signaling pathway hierarchies.
Hybridization kinetics of out-of-equilibrium mixtures of short RNA oligonucleotides
Authors: Todisco Marco , Szostak Jack W.
Published: June 2022

Hybridization and strand displacement kinetics determine the evolution of the base-paired configurations of mixtures of oligonucleotides over time. Although much attention has been focused on the thermodynamics of DNA and RNA base pairing in the scientific literature, much less work has been done on the time dependence of interactions involving multiple strands, especially in RNA. Here we provide a study of oligoribonucleotide interaction kinetics and show that it is possible to calculate the association, dissociation and strand displacement rates displayed by short oligonucleotides (5nt – 12nt) as simple functions of oligonucleotide length, CG content, ΔG of hybridization and ΔG of toehold binding. We then show that the resultant calculated kinetic parameters are consistent with the experimentally observed time dependent changes in concentrations of the different species present in mixtures of multiple competing RNA strands. We show that by changing the mixture composition, it is possible to create and tune kinetic traps that extend by orders of magnitude the typical sub-second hybridization timescale of two complementary oligonucleotides. We suggest that the slow equilibration of complex oligonucleotide mixtures may have facilitated the nonenzymatic replication of RNA during the origin of life.
Systematic investigation of synthetic operon designs enables prediction and control of expression levels of multiple proteins
Authors: Gerngross Daniel , Beerenwinkel Niko , Panke Sven
Published: June 2022

Controlling the expression levels of multiple recombinant proteins for optimal performance is crucial for synthetic biosystems but remains difficult given the large number of DNA-encoded factors that influence the process of gene expression from transcription to translation. In bacterial hosts, biosystems can be economically encoded as operons, but the sequence requirements for exact tuning of expression levels in an operon remain unclear. Here, we demonstrate the extent and predictability of protein-level variation using diverse arrangements of twelve genes to generate 88 synthetic operons with up to seven genes at varying inducer concentrations. The resulting 2772 protein expression measurements allowed the training of a sequence-based machine learning model that explains 83% of the variation in the data with a mean absolute error of 9% relative to reference constructs, making it a useful tool for protein expression prediction. Feature importance analysis indicates that operon length, gene position and gene junction structure are of major importance for protein expression.
Analysis of damage characteristics of an aeroelastic model for air-breathing hypersonic vehicles
Authors: Guo Zhongge , Li Yunxin , Wang Yuhui
Published: June 2022

Purpose

To suppress fatigue damage and ensure structural safety, this paper aims to analyze the effect of the damage accumulation on the aeroelastic model of an air-breathing hypersonic flight vehicle (AHFV).

Design/methodology/approach

Initially, by constructing the modified longitudinal elastic model of an AHFV, the stress condition of the fuselage is analyzed, and the model differences with the rigid body are studied. Then, a new damage dynamic model is presented to describe the damage dynamic evolution. Finally, combining the damage model and the longitudinal model of the AHFV, the key variables affecting the damage accumulation are determined.

Findings

It is demonstrated that the elastic deformation must be considered when analyzing the damage characteristics of the fuselage and to determine the key variables that affect the damage accumulation, which provides a more accurate reference for improving the structural reliability and lifespan of AHFVs.

Originality/value

The novelty of this paper comes from the application of the force and stress models for the damage evolution of the AHFV and the development of a new damage model for the entire body with the elastic dynamics of AHFVs.
Corporate governance and financial performance: evidence from listed SMEs in India
Authors: Singh Kuldeep , Rastogi Shailesh
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Corporate governance across small and medium enterprises (SMEs) is undergoing unremitting changes, primarily due to the listing of SMEs on SME exchanges. The changing aspects of governance may influence the financial performance of SMEs. This paper examines how corporate governance influences the financial performance of listed SMEs in the context of developing economies like India. Ownership concentration (promoters' holding) and information disclosures measure corporate governance in this examination.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample for this study includes 88 listed SMEs from the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) SME platform in India. The data are collected for the period between 2018 and 2020. The study employs panel data analysis. The fixed effects model, coupled with the computation of cluster robust standard errors, is used to test the relationship between variables.

Findings

The results demonstrate that ownership concentration is not significantly related to financial performance. Further, information disclosures are inversely significant for financial performance. The results show that agency problems and information asymmetry plague the sampled firms. Further, the results of the study are indicative of inefficiencies in the governance structures of SMEs. Thus, it is evident that listed SMEs fail to reap the benefits of corporate governance.

Practical implications

The study's findings should enlighten SME owners and managers on the benefits of corporate governance for SMEs. This is a pressing need at current times as the listing of SMEs is shifting the landscape of SME governance. Today, all firms, including SMEs, are expected to adopt and maintain near internationally benchmarked corporate governance standards. Secondly, the study's implications on how the ownership and information disclosures can be used to influence the financial outcomes of SMEs will benefit the overall business ecosystem. The policyholders and academics can use this study to boost the regulations and research in line with each other.

Originality/value

Reforming monitoring mechanisms of firm activities and restructuring disclosure practices are essential for SMEs to produce better financial outcomes. The true benefits of corporate governance cannot be realized without attention to financial performance. The study is relevant to practitioners, lawmakers and academics to advance corporate governance for SMEs.
The nexus of job resources and turnover intentions with the mediating role of employees’ work engagement in the hospitality industry
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Zia Muhammad Qamar , Cangialosi Nicola
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Employees turnover is considered a prevailing worldwide problem (Vasquez,2014). This study aims to test the impact of job resources on employees’ work engagement and turnover intentions of different ages, gender and organizational hierarchy.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an online survey method using the job demands-resources (JD-R) theory. Data were collected from 408 hotel employees. The analysis was conducted through structural equation modeling.

Findings

This study finds that job resources positively impact work engagement. Moreover, work engagement negatively influences employees’ turnover intention. In addition, work engagement is found as an underlying psychological mechanism between job resources and turnover intentions. Further, age, gender and organizational hierarchy play a significant role in moderating the relationship between work engagement and turnover intentions.

Originality/value

This study suggests that job resources can overcome turnover intentions among employees concerning diverse age, gender and organizational hierarchy for reciprocal relationships. Based on JD-R theory, this study empirically tests the neglected role of ages, gender and the organizational hierarchy on employees’ work engagement and turnover intentions in the hospitality sector in a developing country context.
Securing delight and loyalty in a market with low switching costs
Authors: Mntande Kebone Agnes , Stiehler‐Mulder Beate , Roberts-Lombard Mornay
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the loyalty intent of prepaid (contract-free) customers in a market where disloyalty is prevalent and the market has low switching costs.

Design/methodology/approach

A quota, non-probability sampling technique was applied, resulting in the completion of 220 self-administered questionnaires that were used for data analysis. Confirmatory factor analysis and a structural equation model were applied to determine model fit and test the formulated hypotheses for this study.

Findings

The strength of the satisfaction–loyalty relationship is found to be influenced by three specific satisfaction antecedents, strengthened by the mediating role of customer delight and impacted by switching costs.

Practical implications

The findings of this study may guide mobile service providers in their initiatives to secure satisfaction and loyalty in a market context where switching costs are low and the market is described as disloyal.

Originality/value

This study investigates the well-researched relationship between satisfaction and loyalty and the antecedents of customer satisfaction to determine which of these variables should be the focus in a challenging market where consumers are disloyal and switching costs are low.
Mark-up on construction projects: what have we learnt in the last 20 years?
Authors: Oo Bee Lan , Lim Benson Teck-Heng , Runeson Goran
Published: June 2022

Purpose

With the aim to provide a global view of factors affecting mark-up size on construction projects, this study performs a meta-analytical review of the relevant studies over the past 20 years.

Design/methodology/approach

The analytical process involved the identification and evaluation of the importance of critical factors affecting mark-up size on construction projects, and the assessment of the generalisability of findings of the meta-analysis. A random-effects model was adopted in the statistical meta-analysis.

Findings

The results show that there are 23 critical factors, and the top five factors are: (1) competitiveness of other bidders; (2) number of bidders; (3) relationship and past experience with client; (4) experience on similar project; and (5) project size. A heterogeneity test further shows that there is no statistically significant heterogeneity across the studies, reinforcing the generalisability of the findings to a global context.

Research limitations/implications

The list of critical factors from a global perspective should form a good basis for future efforts in bidding model development.

Practical implications

The research findings have practical implications to both construction clients and contractors in formulating their contracting practices and strategies.

Originality/value

This is the first meta-analysis of a sizeable collection of replicated studies on factors affecting mark-up size on construction projects in the literature.
Process framework for innovation through tradition and its antecedents in rural heritage B&B
Authors: Wang Wanfei , Ding Lu , Chan Jin Hooi , Qi Xiaoguang
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Innovation through tradition (ITT) is an increasingly important area of research particularly in the creative and cultural industries. The purpose of this study is to develop a process framework of ITT for rural heritage bed and breakfast (B&B) sector and investigate the antecedents and challenges of ITT implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

Nine heritage B&Bs displaying successful ITT in Songyang county in China were selected as the research site. Multiple cases of B&B were interviewed, and some observations were conducted. This study adopted the process-oriented reflexive critical incident technique to collect qualitative data and analysed it thematically.

Findings

Based on the findings, a five-phase innovation framework is proposed to demonstrate how ITT could be achieved in practice. These phases are idea generation, idea evaluation, initial implementation, continuing implementation and sustaining improvement. Three key antecedents (experience corridors, networks and institutional pressures) of ITT implementation were also identified.

Practical implications

This study has showed that rural heritage B&Bs can differentiate themselves from competition by the means of ITT. This study proposes a process framework for this kind of innovation bringing to light the required steps, the antecedents and key activities which the practitioners should pay great attention. This study highlights the needs for continuing and sustaining innovations in the long term.

Originality/value

This study proposes a novel five-phase process framework of ITT to encompass the innovation activities in heritage setting. For practitioners, this study recommends enhancing the sensing capability of local entrepreneurs through personal travel experience and establishing business networks as the key antecedents of a successful ITT under rural heritage setting.
A review of digital family businesses: setting marketing strategies, business models and technology applications
Authors: Saura José Ramón , Palacios-Marqués Daniel , Barbosa Belém
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Technological advances in the last decade have caused both business and economic sectors to seek for new ways to adapt their business models to a connected data-centric era. Family businesses have also been forced to leave behind traditional strategies rooted in family stimuli and ties and to adapt their actions in digital environments. In this context, this study aims to identify major online marketing strategies, business models and technology applications developed to date by family firms. Methodology: Upon a systematic literature review, we develop a multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) under the homogeneity analysis of variance by means of alternating least squares (HOMALS) framework programmed in the R language. Based on the results, the analyzed contributions are visually analyzed in clusters.

Design/methodology/approach

Upon a systematic literature review, we develop an MCA under the HOMALS framework programmed in the R language. Based on the results, the analyzed contributions are visually analyzed in clusters.

Findings

Relevant indicators are identified for the successful development of digital family businesses classified in the following three categories: (1) digital business models, (2) digital marketing techniques and (3) technology applications. The first category consists of four digital business models: mobile marketing, e-commerce, cost per click, cost per mile and cost per acquisition. The second category includes six digital marketing techniques: search marketing (search engine optimization and search engine marketing (SEM) strategies), social media marketing, social ads, social selling, websites and online reputation optimization. Finally, the third category consists of the following aspects: digital innovation, digital tools, innovative marketing, knowledge discovery and online decision making. In addition, five research propositions are developed for further discussion and future research.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to cover this research topic applying the emerging programming language R for the development of an MCA under the HOMALS framework.
House price dynamics and relations with the macroeconomic indicators in Turkey
Authors: Akça Tacinur
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to make an analysis of the short- and long-term effects of inflation, exchange rate, housing interest rate, industrial production index, total housing loans and housing volume on housing inflation in Turkey, taking into account the multiple structural breaks.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple structural break Lee–Strazicich unit root test, autoregressive distributed lag bound test and Granger causality test based on error correction model were used.

Findings

There is both a short- and long-term relationship between housing prices and macrovariables. Housing prices are mostly affected by housing interest rates, housing volume, real exchange rate and total housing loans in the short run. In the long run, it is mostly affected by total housing loans, housing volume and housing interest rates.

Research limitations/implications

The variables used in the analysis are: housing price index, consumer price index, dollar rate, housing interest rate, industrial production index, total housing loan amount and domestic loan volume. Because the data that variables started common is 2010:M01, the period starting from this date until 2021:M12 is considered. The research covers only Turkey as a country. Determining the micro- and macroeffects of housing prices can always offer solutions for the problems experienced in housing supply and housing demand.

Originality/value

While investigating housing prices, there are no studies in which total housing loans and housing volume are included in the model together. However, it is important to analyze the effect of the current conjuncture, in which there has been constant increases in foreign exchange rates and high inflation in recent years, on housing prices in Turkey. In this study, investigating these effects by using econometric methods that include structural breaks also increases the original value of this study.
The impact of operational disruptions on performance in surgical settings: moderating roles of risk management infrastructure and information exchange
Authors: Dreyfus David , Nair Anand
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Drawing on normal accident and high-reliability organizational theories, this study examines the impact of magnitude and likelihood of disruptions on surgical procedure performance. More importantly, the authors investigate the moderating role played by information exchange and risk management infrastructure in mitigating the negative effect of disruption on performance.

Design/methodology/approach

A nationwide multi-respondent survey was administered to operating room personnel to collect information on their experiences with disruptions experienced in surgeries. The survey data are analyzed to examine the relationship between operational disruptions and procedure performance. Additionally, the moderating roles of risk management infrastructure and information exchange on the relationship between disruptions and performance are investigated. The results obtained from the empirical analysis are validated using data from an ethnographic investigation of surgeries at a major hospital.

Findings

The results show that both the magnitude and the likelihood of a disruption adversely impact procedure performance. Interestingly, the authors find that risk management infrastructure and information exchange play different roles in mitigating the effect of disruptions on performance. The authors find that while risk management infrastructure helps mitigate the effect of magnitude of service disruptions, information exchange helps reduce the effects of likelihood of disruptions. The findings lend strong support to the theoretical assertions. By means of the participant–observer data collected from over 100 surgeries as part of the ethnographic investigation, the authors validate the key findings. The findings suggest that disruptions are common occurrences in surgical settings, but their performance impact may be lessened or altogether avoided with the proper information and risk management mechanisms in place.

Originality/value

This survey research extends the understanding of risk management by considering a context that is highly prone to disruptions. The authors adopt existing constructs pertaining to supply chain disruptions within this context and find new insights. The findings of the study show differential roles played by information exchange and risk management infrastructure in mitigating disruptions. This nuanced understanding provides directions for aligning efforts towards risk mitigation in surgical settings in a more focused way. This study supplements findings from survey data analysis with an examination of data collected by means of ethnographic investigation.
Supply chain quality management 4.0: conceptual and maturity frameworks
Authors: Bui Loan Thi Cam , Carvalho Maria , Pham Hai Thanh , Nguyen Tram Thi Bich , Duong An Thi Binh , Truong Quang Huy
Published: June 2022

Purpose

The research objective is rooted in the principle of providing new insights and a collective perspective regarded as Supply Chain Quality Management 4.0 (SCQM4.0), an integration of all three concepts – Industrie 4.0, quality management and supply chain management.

Design/methodology/approach

A thorough review of historical developments and existing integration trends among Industrie 4.0, quality and supply chain approaches along with future research directions outlined in the main literature, was conducted. This work establishes a knowledge base on research topics, issues of integration and synergies with a concentration on the potential for deeper integration with supply chain operations.

Findings

This article not only introduced the term SCQM4.0 and proposed a definition for it, but also contributed a novel conceptual SCQM4.0 framework and evolutionary perspective through the SCQM4.0 maturation model. Stemming from the gaps, opportunities and benefits identified in the literature, the conceptual SCQM4.0 framework builds on the high potential of the SCQM4.0 constructs to achieve successful governance and implementation. Under the SCQM4.0 maturity framework, it provides a clear evolutionary path underpinned by the SCQM4.0 constructs.

Research limitations/implications

In the effort toward a successful SCQM4.0 implementation, the proposed SCQM4.0 maturity frameworks will be a “road map” for businesses to develop fully and actively in supply chain operations, bringing quality products and services for the company. Industry practitioners are encouraged to perform gap analysis and direct the implementation of the strategy to establish an excellent SCQM4.0.

Originality/value

This is one of the pioneering studies integrating all three concepts (Industrie 4.0, quality management and supply chain management), connecting the link and discovering more synergies to support the future development of more holistic management models. SCQM4.0 is expected to expand on the strengths, synergies and established relationships between technologies 4.0, quality and supply chain, contributing toward a pioneering and quality supply chain.
The 5Ds of privacy literacy: a framework for privacy education
Authors: Kumar Priya C. , Byrne Virginia L.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Existing privacy-related educational materials are not situated in privacy theory, making it hard to understand what specifically children learn about privacy. This article aims to offer learning objectives and guidance grounded in theories of privacy and learning to serve as a foundation for privacy literacy efforts.

Design/methodology/approach

This article reviews theories of privacy and literacy as social practices and uses these insights to contribute a set of learning objectives for privacy education called the 5Ds of privacy literacy.

Findings

This article connects the 5Ds of privacy literacy with existing curricular standards and offers guidance for using the 5Ds to create educational efforts for preteens grounded in theories of sociocultural learning.

Practical implications

Learning scientists, instructional designers and privacy educators can use the 5Ds of privacy literacy to develop educational programs that help children hone their ability to enact appropriate information flows.

Social implications

Current approaches to privacy education treat privacy as something people need to protect from the incursions of technology, but the authors believe the 5Ds of privacy literacy can redefine privacy – for children and adults alike – as something people experience with the help of technology.

Originality/value

This study uniquely integrates theories of privacy and learning into an educational framework to guide privacy literacy pedagogy.
Influence of a halogen free ionic liquid on the rheological and tribological characteristics of canola oil
Authors: Kumar Gitesh , Garg H.C.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to develop vegetable oil-based environmentally acceptable lubricants with a halogen-free ionic liquid (IL) as a substitute for petroleum-based lubricants.

Design/methodology/approach

The rheological and tribological characteristics of canola oil influenced by 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium dicyanamide as an additive along with surfactants have been experimentally investigated. The viscosities of prepared bio-ionic lubricants have been evaluated at a constant shear rate of 100 per second with a temperature ramp from 30°C to 100°C and also by varying shear rate from 1 to 103 per second at constant temperatures of 40°C and 100°C. The solubilization and absorbance of bio-ionic lubricants have been studied by using dynamic light scattering and ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy. Friction and wear effects of bio-ionic lubricants have been evaluated using ball-on-disc tribotester at different speeds and loads.

Findings

The rheological properties of canola oil have been significantly improved with addition of IL. Minimum coefficient of friction and wear have been observed at an optimum concentration of 2 Wt.% of IL. Atomic force microscopy reveals that worn-out surface of ball lubricated with canola oil containing 2 Wt.% IL has smooth surface.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that halogen-free has the potential to accommodate as an incipient class of EALs.
Questioning the role of information poverty in immigrant employment acquisition: empirical evidence from African immigrants in Canada
Authors: Mabi Millicent N. , O'Brien Heather L. , Nathan Lisa P.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Skilled, well-educated African immigrants arrive in Canada with aspirations for more opportunities and a better life, but too often end up with few employment options and precarious jobs. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the experiences of African immigrants attempting to locate suitable, well-compensated employment in Canada. More specifically, this paper reveals how long-standing information poverty frameworks from the field of information behavior are inadequate for understanding intersectional and broader socio-cultural forces influence access to information and employment precarity among African immigrants.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with twenty-five African immigrants in Metro Vancouver. Qualitative content analysis was used to explore participants' employment information seeking and perceptions of information availability using Britz's information poverty framework.

Findings

Participants encountered a range of difficulties when seeking information related to employment, including content, process and identity-related challenges, in alignment with Britz's framework. However, the framework did not fully encompass their information seeking experiences. Limited access to relevant information impacted participants' ability to make timely career decisions, and there was evidence of information inequity resulting from a mismatch between information provision and participants' multifaceted identities.

Originality/value

This research applied Britz's information poverty approaches and provided a map of participants' responses to information seeking challenges. Participants did not fit into the category of information poor as defined by Britz. The findings suggest that the discourse on information poverty would benefit from considerations of the diverse backgrounds of information seekers and the incorporation of cultural dimensions to understandings of information access, information poverty and technology use for information seeking.
Women entrepreneurship in family business: dominant topics and future research trends
Authors: Bağış Mehmet , Kryeziu Liridon , Kurutkan Mehmet Nurullah , Ramadani Veland
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This article examines the dominant research topics that guide the literature on women's entrepreneurship in family businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors used performance and scientific network mapping analyses from bibliometric techniques. Performance analysis was used to identify the most influential journals, authors, countries, co-citation, multidimensional scaling (MDS), hierarchical cluster (HCA) and document analysis to identify dominant research themes.

Findings

The research results show that studies on women's entrepreneurship in family businesses are gathered in three clusters. The studies in the first cluster focused on family succession and women's roles. The themes of the succession process, gender bias, leadership and entrepreneurship in the second cluster are intense. Finally, in the third cluster, the themes of women leaders and identity construction dominate.

Research limitations/implications

First, new conceptualizations of female entrepreneurship from family businesses emerge over time (example: “fementerpreneur”); accepting and using these words takes time. For this reason, the authors may have missed the newly emerged concepts in the field of family businesses in the search strategy. Second, although MDS results are widely used in bibliometric research, other forms of MDS analysis may reveal different groups and clusters. Finally, bibliometric analysis is based more on retrospective and dominant themes in the most cited articles, with a heavy emphasis on the most cited papers. Hence, new articles and contributions can be equally important.

Originality/value

Previous studies have not examined the subject of women's entrepreneurship in family businesses. By addressing this issue and setting the agenda for future research, the authors contribute to the literature on women's entrepreneurship in family businesses.
The relationship between firm risk, capital structure, cost of equity capital, and social and environmental sustainability during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Arianpoor Arash , Naeimi Tajdar Seyyed Sajjad
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the relationship between firm risk, capital structure, cost of equity capital and social and environmental sustainability during the COVID-19 pandemic for companies listed on Tehran Stock Exchange.

Design/methodology/approach

To this aim, the information about 190 companies in 2014–2020 was retrieved to be analyzed. The total risk and systematic risk were used as the indicators of company risk; the industry-adjusted earnings price ratio (IndEP) and GORDON were used for the cost of equity capital. To measure social sustainability and environmental sustainability, the procedure suggested by Arianpoor and Salehi (2020) was used.

Findings

Underleveraged firms have had a lower total risk during the COVID-19 pandemic, while overleveraged firms have not had a higher risk during this time. In overleveraged firms, using systematic risk has a negative impact on social sustainability during the COVID-19 pandemic. In overleveraged firms, using total risk and systematic risk has a significant negative impact on environmental sustainability in the pandemic. Besides, overleveraged firms have a lower cost of equity capital (IndEP) during COVID-19.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, no similar study has so far examined the joint impact of COVID-19 and corporate risk on social and environmental sustainability and also the joint impact of COVID-19 and capital structure on the cost of equity. This study contributes to the related literature by providing corporations with insightful post-pandemic directions on capital structure decisions and social and environmental activities. Furthermore, this research and the relevant findings can help understand and develop social responsibility in Iran as a developing country.
Exploring micro-foundations of knowledge-based dynamic capabilities in social purpose organizations
Authors: Bhardwaj Rohit , Srivastava Saurabh , Mishra Hari Govind , Sangwan Sumit
Published: June 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore the micro-foundations of knowledge-based dynamic capabilities (KBDCs) in social purpose organizations (SPOs). The KBDCs facilitate SPOs to successfully manage the acquisition, creation and combination of knowledge to sustain their pursuit of socioeconomic value creation by effectively recognizing and addressing opportunities.

Design/methodology/approach

This study adopts a multiple-case study research design based on the semi-structured interviews of the founders and top managers of case SPOs. The semi-structured interviews were then compared with the theoretical framework of KBDCs following an abductive research approach.

Findings

This study identifies that certain capabilities are required to recognize and leverage the opportunities by SPOs. The authors found ten micro-foundations of KBDCs that sustain successful operationalization and overall development in SPOs. By using an abductive reasoning approach, the authors noted that certain KBDCs are essentially required for the operationalization and overall development of SPOs.

Research limitations/implications

The authors conducted “semi-structured interviews” of founders and top managers that are retrospective in nature. From the implication viewpoint, this study provides insights for practitioners and researchers as it deepens the comprehension and contribution of knowledge and knowledge-related activities and procedures in SPOs.

Practical implications

KBDCs and their specific micro-foundations can help social entrepreneurs to delineate their idea, strategic processes and actions to achieve effective operationalization and overall sustainable development.

Originality/value

This study improves the understanding of Teece et al. (1997) theoretical construct of dynamic capabilities (DCs) and extends the framework of Zheng et al. (2011) simultaneously by exploring KBDCs that develop in the context of SPOs. The authors used an abductive reasoning approach that is vital for exploring dynamic capabilities; consequently, this study contributes to the approach of DCs and proffers a methodological advancement that can facilitate future research in this direction.
A game of reciprocity? The effect of leader–follower moqi congruence on task performance
Authors: Zhang Qi , Zheng Xingshan , Yao Yao , Dube Francisca N.M.
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Building on the person–supervisor fit theory, this paper examines how and when leader–follower moqi congruence positively impacts task performance.

Design/methodology/approach

With data collected from 174 leader–follower dyads in 41 project teams in Shanghai, China, the authors use polynomial regression and response surface plots to test the hypotheses on the effects of leader–follower moqi congruence.

Findings

Leader–follower moqi congruence positively affects followers' task performance, mediated by coordination. Task coordination was of higher quality when the congruence is achieved at a high level of moqi than at a low level. The effect of leader–follower moqi congruence on task performance (mediated by coordination) was weaker when leader-member exchange was low than when it was high.

Originality/value

This study identifies why leader–follower moqi can improve coordination and task performance. It extends person–supervisor fit theory and is an enhancement for moqi research and practice.
Sleep-deprived and emotionally exhausted: depleted resources as inhibitors of creativity at work
Authors: Opoku Mavis Agyemang , Kang Seung-Wan , Kim Najung
Published: June 2022

Purpose

Within the theoretical frameworks of conservation of resources and job demands-resources (JD-R), the study aims to examine how sleep deficit could be negatively related to creativity at work by depleting critical resources of creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey data were collected from 368 individuals nested in 40 teams at a call center. The authors conducted multilevel analysis to test the proposed hypotheses to account for the hierarchical nature of the data while simultaneously estimating the effect of predictors at different levels on individual-level outcomes and maintaining the predictors' level of analysis.

Findings

Through the data, the study presents how the depletion of resource, that is, emotional exhaustion, functions as a mediating mechanism that connects sleep deficit to creativity at work. Further, the study presents that higher job demands can worsen the negative effects of resource depletion on creativity at work because they further deplete resources needed for creative behaviors. Specifically, when sleep-deprived, those working in a high-task-interdependence climate are likely to experience emotional exhaustion more severely than do those in a low-task-interdependence climate. Also, the relationship between emotional exhaustion and creativity is more negative for managers than for non-managers because of managers' higher job demands.

Practical implications

By presenting sleep deficit-linked inhibitors of creativity at work, the authors highlight the importance of securing sufficient sleep and affective resources when designing jobs and HR practices in organizations.

Originality/value

This paper addresses the call for attention to examining the mechanisms through which sleep deficit affects employee creative behavior.
ClNOX1/ClNOXR‐mediated MAPK and cAMP‐PKA signalling pathways and ROS metabolism are involved in Curvularia lunata sexual reproduction and host infection
Authors: Wang Fen , Liu Kexin , Wang Jiahui , Sun Yuxin , Xiao Shuqin , Xue Chunsheng
Published: June 2022

NADPH oxidases (NOXs) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) are involved in physiological and pathological processes, and cell fate decisions in organisms. However, regulatory mechanism of NOXs and the role of H2O2 on fungal sexual reproduction and host infection remain largely unexplored. Here, we identified ROS metabolic genes and key signalling genes of MAPK and cAMP‐PKA pathways in Curvularia lunata, which were NOX ClNOX1 and ClNOXR, superoxide dismutase ClSOD1 and catalase ClCAT4, redox‐regulated transcription factor ClAP1, Ras small GTPases Clg2P, pheromone‐response MAPK ClK1 and cAMP‐PKA ClSCHA, and characterized the functions of these genes. The results showed that ClNOX1 localized to the plasma membrane. ClNOX1 and ClNOXR were involved in sexual reproduction and host infection via ClNOX1/ClNOXR‐derived H2O2 as well as MAPK and cAMP‐PKA signalling pathways. H2O2 acted as a signalling molecule to regulate sexual reproduction and host infection in C. lunata.
Research progress in fluid and semifluid microwave heating technology in food processing
Authors: Wu Yiran , Mu Rongyi , Li Guohua , Li Mengge , Lv Weiqiao
Published: June 2022

Microwave is a form of electromagnetic radiation that has high penetration and heating efficiency in food processing. Uneven heating is the main problem of microwave processing, especially in solid foods. Fluid and semifluid media, which are good carriers in microwave processing, have uniform dielectric properties and good material fluidity. Herein, we review the development, application prospects, and limitations of microwave in fluid and semifluid food processing and the research progress in microwave heating with steam as carrier. The mixture of generated steam and tiny micro droplets from food material under the action of microwave can absorb microwave and transfer heat evenly, which effectively improves the uniformity of microwave heating. Due to the relatively uniform dielectric properties and consistent texture of fluid and semifluid food materials, uneven heating phenomenon during their microwave processing can be significantly inhibited. Based on the development of microwave heating technology and equipment design, the microbial inactivation and enzyme inhibition in fluid and semifluid food were improved and food product with better retention of nutrients and sensory profile were produced. Also, microwave radiation can be used to prepare the printing material or process the printed product for 3D food printing, which enhances the added value of 3D printed products and the personalization of food manufacturing. In future research, intelligent control technology can be applied in the microwave processing of fluid and semifluid food materials for various applications. Therefore, the processing conditions can be adjusted automatically.