bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Arte y epistemologías emergentes. Hacia una hermenéutica de sujetos subalternizados
Authors: Calderón Rodelo Yecid
Published: October 2019

A continuación, se expone una experiencia de nomadismo epistémico que se ha ido consolidando a través de ciertas prácticas y varios encuentros con comunidades y grupos de personas en espacios semi-académicos en cuatro ciudades colombianas y mexicanas: Popayán, Bogotá, Ciudad de México y Tuxtla Gutiérrez. Tales comunidades son grupos que surgen por la contingencia de intereses que se entrecruzan y que mantiene vinculados a los participantes durante los ejercicios de reflexión en torno a temáticas que abordan el asunto de arte y epistemologías emergentes. A partir de la misma reflexión y de algunas prácticas que se dan al interior de estos colectivos, contingentemente creados, se ha podido reflexionar sobre la necesidad de desinstalar algunos dispositivos de poder, así como la urgencia de transformar hábitos discursivos-performáticos ligados a estructuras de dominación en relación con la raza, la clase, el género y la sexualidad. De la misma manera, al evidenciar, mediante un análisis crítico, el modo en que el cuerpo constituye el fundamento discursivo-performático de estos dispositivos, se generan posibles horizontes de acción para proponer cuerpos indóciles, rebeldes y en continuo flujo dentro de las estructuras de opresión en el sistema vigente, recurriendo a prácticas artísticas y un trabajo común g-localizado sustentado en la hermenéutica del sujeto.
Breve historia del rock en Colombia desde los años 60 hasta la actualidad (parte2)
Authors: Ortegón Munevar Camilo Andrés
Published: October 2019

En este artículo se desarrolla la segunda parte de una breve historia del rock en Colombia en el contexto más amplio del rock en Latinoamérica a partir de los años 60. Su propósito fundamental es visibilizar el trabajo de algunos bateristas que tuvieron un papel clave en esta historia local del rock. Se trata de un texto realizado por un baterista interesado en el trabajo pionero de bateristas colombianos que aportaron interesantes ideas compositivas para el desarrollo del rock en Colombia.
Deteksi Arteri Karotis pada Citra Ultrasound B-Mode Berbasis Convolution Neural Network Single Shot Multibox Detector
Authors: Sunarya I Made Gede , Karlita Tita , Priambodo Joko , Rokhana Rika , Yuniarno Eko Mulyanto , Sardjono Tri Arief , Sunu Ismoyo , Purnama I Ketut Eddy
Published: October 2019

Detection of vascular areas (blood vessels) using B-Mode ultrasound images is needed for automatic applications such as registration and navigation in medical operations. This study developed the detection of the carotid artery area using Convolution Neural Network Single Shot Network Multibox Detector (SSD) to determine the bounding box ROI of the carotid artery area in B-mode ultrasound images. The data used are B-Mode ultrasound images on the neck that contain the carotid artery area (primary data). SSD method result is 95% of accuracy which is higher than the Hough transformation method, Ellipse method, and Faster RCNN in detecting carotid artery area in the B-Mode ultrasound image. The use of image enhancement with Gaussian filter, histogram equalization, and Median filters in this method can increase detection accuracy. The best process time of the proposed method is 2.09 seconds so that it can be applied in a real-time system.
Tumours and Tumour - Like Lesions of Scapula
Authors: Brtková Jindra , Nidecker Andreas , Zídková Helena , Jundt Gernot
Published: October 2019

A retrospective study of 68 cases of tumours and tumour - like lesions related to the scapula, included in the registry of the Bone Tumour Reference Centre at the Institute of Pathology/University Clinics, Basle, has been carried out. Each case was evaluated for lesion entity, activity and location, age and sex of the patient, and, in 49 files with available radiographic documentation (mostly plain films), for radiologic appearance, with the aim to predict the histologic diagnosis or at least the correct dignity of the lesion. Statistically most frequent were cartilaginous tumours. More than 1/3 of all cases were osteochondromas, which demonstrated mostly a typical appearance. They were encountered predominantly in the first 3 decades in males and were located most often in the body of the scapula. 1/4 of all cases were chondrosarcomas, which were prevailing in the 4th-7th decades, but were occasionally found at a younger age too. Chondrosarcomas were located mainly at the lateral scapular margin over the inferior angle and in the acromion and coracoid process and their appearance ranged from typical to falsely benign. 1/3 of the cases represented a number of other benign and malignant histological entities.
Surgery for Bullous Emphysema
Authors: Šimek Jiří , Rešl Milan , Král Bohuslav
Published: October 2019

The present indications for surgery are mainly large or increasing bullae that result in compression of apparently good lung tissue, and the complications of bullous diseases such as pneumothorax. The results of local resection of localized giant bullae are dramatic. The resection of small bullae generally has little effect on lung function. Lobectomy should not be done until bullae have been removed locally and the remaining lung has been tested by positive ventilation. The indications for the resection of large bullae in the presence of diffuse emphysema require very careful individual study. Pulmonary function tests are mandatory but computed tomography is the single most useful method of assesing the extent of the bullous disease and the underlying lung disease. If the underlying lung is diffusely cystic then any surgical treatment is palliative only.
The INFLUENCE OF JOB INSECURITY , WORK MOTIVATION, ORGANIZATIONAL COMMITMENTS AND WORK SATISFACTION AS INTERVENING VARIABLES TO EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE
Authors: Drs. H. Dasuki. M.Pd Novi Lailatun Nikmah
Published: October 2019

ABSTRACT

The purpose of this study is to analyze and interpret the effect of job insecurity , work motivation, organizational commitment and job satisfaction on employee performance. The population in this study were employees of PT Semar Beton Perkasa in Tuban Regency totaling 7 people . In this study the sampling used a saturated sampling technique . A number of samples equals the total population, which is 7 0 people . For this study data analysis used the Partial Least Square (PLS) approach . The results of the study show that job insecurity , work motivation, organizational commitment and job satisfaction have a significant effect on employee performance
Marketing: The Evolution of Digital Marketing
Authors: Kuazaqui Edmir , Lisboa Teresinha Covas
Published: October 2019

The present qualitative research had the objective of presenting a study on Marketing evolution, in order to demonstrate the changes and transformations that occurred to meet market demands. Without Marketing, we would not have the products and services available on a large scale, to the detriment of regional demands and offers, guaranteeing opportunities for all those that want to develop businesses. The methodology of the study consisted in the use of bibliographical and field techniques. The marketing evolution concept was presented, from traditional to digital, from the common to the different and disruptive, and within the conception of Marketing 4.0. It was concluded that the companies are inserted in environments of great changes and transformations and that they must perceive these changes in order to accompany the new generations in relation to the digital environment and the instruments used for its operati
An admissible Hybrid contraction with an Ulam type stability
Authors: Karapınar Erdal , Fulga Andreea
Published: October 2019

In this manuscript, we introduce a new hybrid contraction that unify several nonlinear and linear contractions in the set-up of a complete metric space. We present an example to indicate the genuine of the proved result. In addition, we consider Ulam type stability and well-posedness for this new hybrid contraction.
Optimizing rates and application time of potassium fertilizer for improving growth, grain nutrients content and yield of wheat crop
Authors: Ali Izhar , Khan Asad Ali , Munsif Fazal , He Liang , Khan Aziz , Ullah Saif , Saeed Wajid , Iqbal Anas , Adnan Muhammad , Ligeng Jiang
Published: October 2019

Nutrient management is a key component of best agronomic practices for optimal crop production. The continuous use of high yielding genotypes and exhaustive cropping systems has resulted in potassium deficiency. Furthermore, the imbalanced use of nutrients, particularly potassium (K), has resulted in persistent depletion from agricultural soils. To address this issue, a field experiment was conducted to determine the influence of different potassium levels under a split application on yield and yield attributes of wheat crops. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design replicated four times. Five K levels (0, 60, 80, 100 and 120 kg ha−1) and different K application timings (whole dose (Basal) at sowing, equal doses at sowing+ 30 DAS, half dose at sowing+ equal doses at 30 +60 DAS and equal doses at sowing+30+60+ 90 DAS). The findings of the study revealed that potassium levels and their application times substantially influenced yield and yield components of wheat. The application of K at 120 kg ha−1 delayed anthesis and maturity and enhanced chlorophyll content (53), tillers m−2 (293.4 m−2) and increased plant height (97.1cm). The application of K 80 kg ha−1 significantly increased grain protein, nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium content which resulted in a higher (4227 kg ha−1) grain yield. In the case of K timings application, the higher grain yield (3758 kg ha−1) was achieved when K was applied one time at sowing time. It is concluded that K at the rate of 80 kg ha−1 should be applied in full at sowing for achieving higher wheat production.
Farmers’ knowledge, perceptions and management practices for termite pests of maize in Southern Benin
Authors: Loko Laura Estelle Yêyinou , Orobiyi Azize , Toffa Joelle , Fagla Sédami Medegan , Gavoedo Dieudonné Martin , Manuele Tamò
Published: October 2019

Termite (Isoptera: Termitidae) infestation is an important constraint of maize production in Benin. A survey of 300 households was conducted in 2018 throughout 30 villages in Southern Benin to evaluate farmers’ knowledge, perceptions and management practices of maize termite pests using focus group discussions and individual interviews with a semi-structured questionnaire. The results showed that for most of the farmers, maize is the most susceptible crop to termite attacks and the maturation developmental stage having the highest termite abundance and damage. A total of 43 different names of maize termite pests corresponding to 8 species were recorded in the study area. Size and colour were the main criteria used by farmers to classify and identify maize termite pests. Amitermes evuncifer was perceived as the most damaging to maize during vegetative and maturation stages, while Macrotermes bellicosus was perceived by famers (32.5%) as most damaging during seedling and flowering maize development stages. Erratic rainfall was perceived by maize producers as the most important factor favouring termite infestation in maize fields. The majority of the local maize is considered by farmers as susceptible to termites. The use of synthetic insecticides was the main method to control termites. Four of the 20 pesticides used by farmers have active ingredients that have been listed as highly hazardous (class Ib) by the World Health Organization (WHO). Farmers training on the danger and impact of misuse of insecticides on the development of termite insecticide resistance was recommended. The development of an integrated termite management strategy is discussed and the future research for its implementation identified.
Minimizing Precision-Weighted Sensory Prediction Errors via Memory Formation and Switching in Motor Adaptation
Authors: Oh Youngmin , Schweighofer Nicolas
Published: October 2019

Humans predict the sensory consequences of motor commands by learning internal models of the body and of environment perturbations. When facing a sensory prediction error, should we attribute this error to a change in our body, and update the body internal model, or to a change in the environment? In the latter case, should we update an existing perturbation model or create a new model? Here, we propose that a decision-making process compares the models' prediction errors, weighted by their precisions, to select and update either the body model or an existing perturbation model. When no model can predict a perturbation, a new perturbation model is created and selected. When a model is selected, both the prediction's mean estimate and uncertainty are updated to minimize future prediction errors and to increase the precision of the predictions. Results from computer simulations, which we verified in an arm visuomotor adaptation experiment with subjects of both sexes, account for short aftereffects and large savings after adaptation to large, but not small, perturbations. Results also clarify previous data in the absence of errors (error-clamp): motor memories show an initial lack of decay after a large perturbation, but gradual decay after a small perturbation. Finally, qualitative individual differences in adaptation were explained by subjects selecting and updating either the body model or a perturbation model. Our results suggest that motor adaptation belongs to a general class of learning according to which memories are created when no existing memories can predict sensory data accurately and precisely.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENTWhen movements are followed by unexpected outcomes, such as following the introduction of a visuomotor or a force field perturbation, or the sudden removal of such perturbations, it is unclear whether the CNS updates existing memories or creates new memories. Here, we propose a novel model of adaptation, and investigate, via computer simulations and behavioral experiments, how the amplitude and schedule of the perturbation, as well as the characteristics of the learner, lead to the selection and update of existing memories or the creation of new memories. Our results provide insights into a number of puzzling and contradictory motor adaptation data, as well as into qualitative individual differences in adaptation.
Confluencia geopolítica entre Cárdenas y Roosevelt:
Authors: Espasa Andreu
Published: October 2019

De forma un tanto paradójica, a finales de los años treinta, las relaciones entre México y Estados Unidos sufrieron uno de los momentos de máxima tensión, para pasar, a continuación, a experimentar una notable mejoría, alcanzando el cénit en la alianza política y militar sellada durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial. El episodio catalizador de la tensión y posterior reconciliación fue, sin duda, el conflicto diplomático planteado tras la nacionalización petrolera de 1938. De entre los factores que propiciaron la solución pacífica y negociada al conflicto petrolero, el presente artículo se centra en analizar dos fenómenos del momento. En primer lugar, siguiendo un orden de relevancia, se examina el papel que tuvo la Guerra Civil Española. Aunque las posturas de ambos gobiernos ante el conflicto español fueron sustancialmente distintas, las interpretaciones y las lecciones sobre sus posibles consecuencias permitieron un mayor entendimiento entre los dos países vecinos. En segundo lugar, también se analizarán las afinidades ideológicas entre el New Deal y el cardenismo en el contexto de la crisis mundial económica y política de los años treinta, con el fin de entender su papel lubricante en las relaciones bilaterales de la época.

Somewhat paradoxically, at the end of the 1930s, the relationship between Mexico and the United States experienced one of its tensest moments, after which it dramatically improved, reaching its zenith in the political and military alliance cemented during World War II. The catalyst for this tension and subsequent reconciliation was, without doubt, the diplomatic conflict that arose after the oil nationalization of 1938. Of the various factors that led to a peaceful negotiated solution to the oil conflict, this article focuses on analyzing two phenomena. Firstly—in order of importance—this article examines the role that the Spanish Civil War played. Although the positions of both governments in relation to the Spanish war were significantly different, the interpretations and lessons concerning potential consequences enabled a greater understanding between the two neighboring countries. Secondly, this article also analyzes the ideological affinities between the New Deal and Cardenismo in the context of the global economic and political crisis of the thirties, seeking to understand their role in facilitating bilateral relations during that period.
Verán ustedes las chozas más humildes. El discurso de pobreza en la diplomacia pública cardenista dirigida a Estados Unidos
Authors: Scheel Sylvia Dümmer
Published: October 2019

El artículo analiza la diplomacia pública del gobierno de Lázaro Cárdenas centrándose en su opción por publicitar la pobreza nacional en el extranjero, especialmente en Estados Unidos. Se plantea que se trató de una estrategia inédita, que accedió a poner en riesgo el “prestigio nacional” con el fin de justificar ante la opinión pública estadounidense la necesidad de implementar las reformas contenidas en el Plan Sexenal. Aprovechando la inusual empatía hacia los pobres en tiempos del New Deal, se construyó una imagen específica de pobreza que fuera higiénica y redimible. Ésta, sin embargo, no generó consenso entre los mexicanos.

This article analyzes the public diplomacy of the government of Lázaro Cárdenas, focusing on the administration’s decision to publicize the nation’s poverty internationally, especially in the United States. This study suggests that this was an unprecedented strategy, putting “national prestige” at risk in order to explain the importance of implementing the reforms contained in the Six Year Plan, in the face of public opinion in the United States. Taking advantage of the increased empathy felt towards the poor during the New Deal, a specific image of hygienic and redeemable poverty was constructed. However, this strategy did not generate agreement among Mexicans.
Ontogeny of the specificity of gonadotropin receptors and gene expression in carp
Authors: Hollander-Cohen Lian , Böhm Benjamin , Hausken Krist , Levavi-Sivan Berta
Published: October 2019

The pituitary gonadotropins, luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), are the principle endocrine drivers of reproductive processes in the gonads of jawed vertebrates. Canonically, FSH recruits and maintains selected ovarian follicles for maturation and LH induces the stages of germinal vesicle breakdown and ovulation. In mammals, LH and FSH specifically activate cognate G-protein-coupled receptors that affect the proteins involved in steroidogenesis, protein hormone synthesis, and gametogenesis. This dual-gonadotropin model also exists in some fish species, but not in all. In fact, due to their diverse number of species, extended number of ecological niches, and remarkably flexible reproductive strategies, fish are appropriate as models to understand the co-evolution of gonadotropins and their receptors. In this study, we cloned and characterized the expression profile over the final stages of ovarian maturation of carp (Cyprinus carpio) LHCGR and FSHR. Expression of both gonadotropin receptors increased in the later stage of early vitellogenesis, suggesting that both LH and FSH play a role in the development of mature follicles. We additionally tested the activation of cLHCGR and cFSHR using homologous and heterologous recombinant gonadotropins in order to gain insight into an evolutionary model of permissive gonadotropin receptor function. These data suggest that carp (Cyprinus carpio) gonad development and maturation depends on a specific gonadotropin profile that does not reflect the temporally distinct dual-gonadotropin model observed in salmonids or mammals, and that permissive gonadotropin receptor activation is a specific feature of Ostariophysi, not all teleosts.
Mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma containing GH and GHRH co-secreting adenoma cells
Authors: Teramoto Shinichiro , Tange Yuichi , Ishii Hisato , Goto Hiromasa , Ogino Ikuko , Arai Hajime
Published: October 2019

A 67-year-old woman with a past history of type 2 diabetes mellitus presented with worsening glycemic control. She had some acromegaly symptoms and magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a pituitary tumor. Endocrinological examination found the resting growth hormone (GH) level within the normal range, but elevated insulin-like growth factor 1 level. A 75 g oral glucose tolerance test showed inadequate suppression of nadir GH levels. Acromegaly due to GH-secreting pituitary tumor was diagnosed. The patient underwent endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery resulting in gross total removal of the tumor and recovered well postoperatively. Histological examination of the tumor showed coexistence of relatively large gangliocytoma cells and pituitary adenoma cells, suggesting mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma. In addition, colocalization of GH and GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) in pituitary adenoma cells was revealed, so the adenomatous components were more likely to produce GHRH in our mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma case. Mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma is very rare, and the present unique case demonstrated only the adenomatous components associated with GHRH production.

Learning points:

Sellar gangliocytoma coexisting with pituitary adenoma is recognized as a mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma and is very rare.

A proposed developmental mechanism of growth hormone (GH)-secreting mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma involves GH-releasing hormone (GHRH) produced by the gangliocytic components promoting the growth of tumor including GH-secreting adenomatous components.

Since our present case indicated that the adenomatous components of mixed gangliocytoma-pituitary adenoma could secrete both GH and GHRH simultaneously, progression of GH-secreting mixed gangliocytoma and pituitary adenoma may involve exposure to spontaneously produced GHRH due to the adenomatous components.
Genome ofSpea multiplicata, a Rapidly Developing, Phenotypically Plastic, and Desert-Adapted Spadefoot Toad
Authors: Seidl Fabian , Levis Nicholas A , Schell Rachel , Pfennig David W , Pfennig Karin S , Ehrenreich Ian M
Published: October 2019

Frogs and toads (anurans) are widely used to study many biological processes. Yet, few anuran genomes have been sequenced, limiting research on these organisms. Here, we produce a draft genome for the Mexican spadefoot toad, Spea multiplicata, which is a member of an unsequenced anuran clade. Atypically for amphibians, spadefoots inhabit deserts. Consequently, they possess many unique adaptations, including rapid growth and development, prolonged dormancy, phenotypic (developmental) plasticity, and adaptive, interspecies hybridization. We assembled and annotated a 1.07 Gb Sp. multiplicata genome containing 19,639 genes. By comparing this sequence to other available anuran genomes, we found gene amplifications in the gene families of nodal, hyas3, and zp3 in spadefoots, and obtained evidence that anuran genome size differences are partially driven by variability in intergenic DNA content. We also used the genome to identify genes experiencing positive selection and to study gene expression levels in spadefoot hybrids relative to their pure-species parents. Completion of the Sp. multiplicata genome advances efforts to determine the genetic bases of spadefoots’ unique adaptations and enhances comparative genomic research in anurans.
Strategic Asset-seeking Activities of Emerging Multinationals: Perspectives of Foreign Acquisitions by Indian Pharmaceutical MNEs
Authors: Pradhan Jaya Prakash
Published: October 2019

While in general, studies on foreign acquisitions by emerging multinationals (EMNEs) have predicted these acquisitions to be driven by both market-seeking and strategic resource-seeking motivations, more concrete analyses on this topic are limited. This paper contributes to the existing literature by analyzing the overseas acquisition activities of EMNEs from Indian pharmaceutical sector. Using the general framework of technological change in emerging economies, Indian pharmaceutical firms are identified to have delicate weakness in their product development capabilities to face intensifying competition in the globalized policy regime. It makes sense for these firms to internationalize through acquisitions of foreign assets that help them not only access new markets but also new products and technologies to overcome their limited product development competencies. The empirical findings highlight the role of host market size, intensity of patenting, skill and liberal FDI policy regime as the key determinants of the geographical distributions of Indian pharmaceutical acquisitions. This implies that EMNEs from Indian pharmaceutical industry are using acquisition as a mixed strategy of accessing markets as well as strategic assets/resources.
Empowerment: a Necessary Attribute of a Learning Organization?
Authors: Mishra Bijaya , Bhaskar A. Uday
Published: October 2019

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to study the role of empowerment in a learning organization. This research tries to explore whether empowerment is a necessary attribute for organizations to enhance their learning capability or not. It attempts to address two fundamental questions:• What is the role of empowerment in an organization’s learning capability?• Is empowerment an essential attribute of a learning organization?Methodology: The study adopted a mixed method of research design, which includes both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection and analysis. The quantitative survey comprised of two questionnaires was used to survey 213 executives from various IT organizations. Interviews were also conducted with executives of two case organizations where in-depth study was conducted. Qualitative data was analyzed using the grounded theory methodology.Findings: The findings indicate that only the decision making dimension of empowerment has emerged as a significant predictor of organizational learning, not the power sharing and people valuing dimensions. Further, no difference is observed in high and low learning organizations on their empowerment pattern.Research Limitations/Implications: The sample organizations were from one geographical location (National Capital Region) of India and the study was conducted in the IT sector only. Future studies may investigate this further in different regions and sectors.
Profitability of Contrarian Strategies: Evidence From the Stock Exchange of Mauritius
Authors: Subadar Ushad Agathee , Hossenbaccus A. R. Muhammad Anas
Published: October 2019

The aim of this paper is to assess the profitability of contrarian strategies on the Stock exchange of Mauritius. Using data from 2001 till 2009 for all 40 listed companies on the official market, the study shows little support in favour of the contrarian effect. In particular, the losers portfolio seems to outperform the winners portfolio in one out of nine strategies. However, when considering the market return, negative excess returns are noted for all portfolios across all strategies, providing strong support for a passive portfolio management strategy and weak support for overreaction hypothesis. In addition, the Size, Price, Earnings to Price (E/P) and Book to Market (B/M) Effect has been tested. The results suggest that the average market return is greater than size-based portfolios and price-based portfolios. However, when accounting for the E/P and the B/M effect, there seems to be a strategy which can beat the market. Nevertheless, most strategies for E/P and B/M portfolios indicate insignificant excess returns. In general, the results of this paper are undoubtedly in sharp contrast with most popular studies in developed markets. However, it is observed that investors on the SEM may not possess similar characteristics to those of well-advanced markets. In particular, according to Harvey (1995), emerging market countries are sometimes relatively isolated from capital markets of other countries.
A Comparative Study of the Impact of Leader-member Exchange in Two Samples: U.s.a. And Poland
Authors: Grodzicki Jacek , Varma Arup
Published: October 2019

Leader-Member Exchange (LMX) theory argues that supervisor-subordinate interactions in the workplace are guided by the type of relationship that develops in each individual dyad, and that the quality of the relationship significantly impacts critical outcomes such as performance ratings. Further, it has been argued that supervisors and subordinates often view the relationship through different lenses – leading to significantly different perceptions of the quality of relationship. In this field study, using data from 32 supervisors and 104 subordinates in the US, and 72 supervisors and 116 subordinates in Poland, we examine the relationship between LMX and performance ratings, as well as compare supervisor and subordinate perceptions of the relationship. In both samples, supervisor ratings of LMX quality were higher than those of the subordinates, and subordinates who received higher LMX ratings from their supervisors also received higher performance ratings. Finally, the correlation between supervisor and subordinate ratings of LMX was significantly higher for the Polish sample as compared to the US sample. We discuss the results in terms of both theoretical and practical significance, and offer suggestions for future research.
Russian Banking Sector: Key Points of International Expansion
Authors: Panibratov Andrei , Verbá Cyril
Published: October 2019

Banking industry is traditionally seen as strictly regulated and driven to avoid political context. While Russian economy in general lacks both well developed regulatory framework and political independence of business entities, we would like to analyze the current state of affairs in an industry for which these attributes have become a hallmark. As Russian non-resource-based industries in general and the banking sector in particular are becoming more and more active players worldwide, the question arises, how exactly do Russian banks internationalize. We analyze four cases of international expansion by Russian banks in order to determine the main destinations for expansion, the entry modes used and whether they resemble resource-based companies in their internationalization. The results show that banks, even while being significantly state owned, are most likely guided by economic motives (as opposed to political ones), are leaning towards safer expansion destinations and are in several ways suffering from home market immaturity.
Antecedents and Consequences of Status Consumption Among Urban Vietnamese Consumers
Authors: Mai Nguyen Thi Tuyet , Tambyah Siok Kuan
Published: October 2019

This study examines the antecedents and consequences of status consumption in the transitional economy of Vietnam. Both qualitative (focus groups and in-depth interviews) and quantitative methods (survey) were employed in this investigation. To test the proposed model and hypotheses, a large consumer survey was conducted in the two biggest cities in Vietnam. The results of Structural Equation Modeling provided empirical evidence for the significant impact of most of the proposed antecedents of status consumption. Specifically, modern status orientation, the ‘success’ component of materialism, and both the individualistic self and collectivistic self were found to have a positive impact on status consumption. Traditional status orientation and consumer ethnocentrism were found to be negatively related to status consumption. The findings also suggested the positive consequences of status consumption on satisfaction with status consumption and satisfaction with life in general. Discussion of the research findings and managerial implications are also provided.
Do Non-work Practices in MNCs Operating in India Impact Organizational Commitment?
Authors: Awasthy Richa , Gupta Rajen K.
Published: October 2019

The present paper establishes the concept of Non-work Practices and explores its impact on organizational commitment. Drawing upon research conducted in four multinational corporations operating in India, the paper examines the degree to which non-work practices are accepted by Indian employees and their relationship with organizational commitment.  Concurrent mixed methodology was adopted in which both qualitative and quantitative data were collected. Template analysis was carried out to interpret employees’ feelings and experiences, and to identify the emerging trends. Factor analysis was carried out to find factors of non-work practices, and regression analysis was carried out to study relationship between organizational commitment and non-work practices. The article discusses the findings related to non-work practices: how these practices are experienced and perceived by Indian employees and what is their impact on the commitment of employees, which would in turn affect the effectiveness of the organization.

It was found that since most of the non-work practices were transplanted from the parent company, they were perceived as alien (except in the Anglo-American MNC).  Host country employees showed little enthusiasm in carrying out those practices and hence these had no positive impact on their organizational commitment.
Logistic Strategy and Organizational Structure in Brazilian Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (Smes)
Authors: Xavier Wescley Silva , Martins Ricardo S.
Published: October 2019

This study evaluates the logistic strategies developed in Small and Medium-sized Enterprises (SMEs) as a response to their organizational structures and planning processes. A multiple case study was carried out in the second largest furniture cluster in Brazil. Based on theoretical models, it was found that the characteristics of a company’s organizational structure had an impact on planning. In the case of companies with a low level of family participation, this impact was intentional, whereas in the case of companies with strongly centralized owner control over decision-making, the impact was unplanned. However, the formal nature of planning does not guarantee that logistics will have strategic aims and, in all cases, it has a strictly reactive nature.
Consumer Decision Model of Intelectual Property Theft in Emerging Markets
Authors: Lalović Gordana , Reardon Saule Amirebayeva , Vida Irena , Reardon James
Published: October 2019

The increasing importance of digital piracy has prompted research on the behavioural and economics origins of illegal downloading activities. This research focuses on the potential impact of various economic, psychological and social factors on the consumer decision whether to buy or to steal music in emerging markets. These markets present specific difficulties for owners of intellectual property rights due to the high level of both downloading and ‘sharing’ of digital property. Results indicate impacts of price, downloaded music quality, ease of Internet use, attitudes toward music industry and ethical perception of music downloading on consumer purchase or pirate decision.
Utilitarian or Hedonic? A Cross Cultural Study in Online Shopping
Authors: Ozen Hilal , Kodaz Nil
Published: October 2019

With the irreversible effect of globalization, a growing number of websites today sell their products to more than one country. The effects of cross cultural differences on buying behaviors are widely acknowledged. Therefore, a consideration about attracting and retaining online consumers from different countries and cultures is gaining importance. This paper examines the roles of hedonic and utilitarian values in online shopping by comparing cross culturally the Turkish and US consumers. A total of 264 students from Turkey and USA participated in the survey. The findings showed that the online shopping behaviors of Turkish and USA consumers differ according to their hedonic and utilitarian values. While Turkish consumers use online retailers to socialize with others, the USA people use online shopping for relaxation purposes.
Customer-based Brand Equity for a Tourism Destination (CBBETD): the Specific Case of Bandung City, Indonesia
Authors: Yuwo Hartanto , Ford John B. , Purwanegara Mustika Sufiati
Published: October 2019

This study examines in detail the use of customer-based brand equity for a tourism destination (CBBETD) as a strategic tool for use with a specific city (Bandung City, Indonesia in this instance). The CBBETD scale developed by Konecnik (2005) and empiricized by Konecnik and Gartner (2007) was successfully adapted using qualitative and quantitative refinements for the city of Bandung. A sample of 400 visitors to Bandung was surveyed, and empirical psychometric assessment was run. The scale required minor adaptations but was found to be appropriate for use in this new context. The components of customer-based brand equity for a tourism destination were found to be: awareness, image, quality and loyalty. The successful adaptation of the scale is encouraging as it provides strategic insight on strengthening destination positioning in the minds of both current and future tourists. Managerial implications and suggestions for future research are provided.
Impact of Political and Cultural Factors on Online Education in Africa: the Strategies to Build Capabilities
Authors: Singh Satyendra , Lewa Peter M.
Published: October 2019

Recently the concept of online education has received considerable attention worldwide; however, its low success rate in Africa warrants further investigation. The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of political and cultural factors on online education. For the purpose of the study, the political factor constitutes government support, technological infrastructure and trained instructors, whereas the cultural factor focuses on gender bias, culture bias and language barrier of learners. Drawing on the theory of source-position-performance, we argue that source (i.e., online education) should be promoted in rural areas as usages of mobile technologies and cellphones are more than computers, and that online education leads to competitive advantage. Finally, we propose a couple of strategies to build capability.
Brand Avoidance: Relations Between Brand-related Stimuli and Negative Emotions
Authors: Kavaliauskė Monika , Simonavičiūtė Edita
Published: October 2019

The article analyses one of the parts of anti-consumption phenomenon – brand avoidance. Most of the research on the topic of brand avoidance is usually qualitative, analysing only singular brand avoidance reasons, whereas this article employs a quantitative method to analyse brand avoidance, including different brand-related stimuli (unmet expectations, symbolic incongruence, unacceptable trade-off, ideological incompatibility) and the negative emotions (dislike, anger, worry, embarrassment) consumers feel towards brands. What is more, this research is the first to analyse brand avoidance in the context of emerging markets, as previous studies were carried out in Western countries. However, it was found that different brand-related stimuli have positive relations mainly with dislike emotion, which was the only one influencing brand avoidance.
The Relevance of Cboe Volatility Index to Stock Markets in Emerging Economies
Authors: Mariničevaitė Tamara , Ražauskaitė Jovita
Published: October 2019

We examine the capability of CBOE S&P500 Volatility index (VIX) to determine returns of emerging stock market indices as compared to local stock markets volatility indicators. Our study considers CBOE S&P500 VIX, local BRIC stock market volatility indices and BRIC stock market MSCI indices daily returns in the period from January 1, 2009 to September 30, 2014. Research is conducted in two steps. First, we perform Spearman correlation analysis between daily changes in CBOE S&P500 VIX, local BRIC stock market VIX and MSCI BRIC stock market indices returns. Second, we perform multiple regression analysis with ARCH effects to estimate the relevance of CBOE S&P500 VIX and local VIX in determining BRIC stock market returns. Research reports weak correlation between CBOE S&P500 VIX and local VIX (except for Brazil). Furthermore, results challenge the assumption of CBOE S&P500 VIX being an indicator of global risk aversion. We conclude that commonly documented trends of rising globalization and stock markets co-integration are not yet present in emerging economies, therefore the usage of CBOE S&P500 VIX alone in determining BRIC stock market returns should be considered cautiously, and local volatility indices should be accounted for in analysis. Furthermore, the data confirms the presence of safe haven properties in Chinese stock market index.
Assessment of Changes in the Quality of Life of Emerging Economies in the Context of Developed Economies of the European Union
Authors: Pukelienė Violeta , Starkauskienė Viktorija
Published: October 2019

The present article has focused on the theoretical and practical aspects of the measurement of quality of life by the quality of life index (IQOL). A special focus of the present article is placed on complexity of quality of life measurement. In the article, an integrated Quality of Life Measurement Model and IQOL are formulated on the basis of theoretical assumptions and synthesis of factors of external and internal environments of quality of life and indicators reflecting them. The Quality of Life Measurement Model presented in the article has been empirically tested assessing quality of life in 20 purposefully selected developed and emerging economies of the European Union during the period from 2005 till 2013. The newly created IQOL is one of the ambitions to promote the methodological background for business and political actors and improvement of the quality of life in emerging economies.
Gender Differences Among Online Shopping Factors in Pakistan
Authors: Akhlaq Ather , Ahmed Ejaz
Published: October 2019

Pakistan is a huge consumer market, where very little is known about the aspects of consumers in online shopping environment. Consumer demographics such as gender are important factors in determining behaviour of individuals towards online shopping. This study finds relationships between gender and online shopping factors in Pakistan. With a survey sample of 286 respondents from various disciplines, exploratory factor analysis was used as an extraction method on the items of the proposed latent variables. MANOVA was then conducted to find gender differences among online shopping factors. Findings showed that shopping patterns differed between genders due to the influence of online shopping factors. This research may facilitate national and multinational organisations to streamline e-tailing strategies in order to gain business opportunities in emerging markets such as Pakistan.
The Links Between Social Motivational Engagements, Brand Community Commitment and Repurchase Intention Across Online Brand Communities
Authors: Časas Ramūnas , Palaima Tomas , Mironidze Lasha
Published: October 2019

The study focuses on the relationships between social motivational engagements, brand community commitment and repurchase intentions across marketer-generated and customer-generated online brand communities. The current study demonstrates that online brand community commitment mediates the effects of all the six motivational engagements (self-expression, connecting, helping, like-minded discussions, seeking assistance, and validation) on repurchase intention. The type of online brand community does not moderate any relationships between social motivational engagements and brand community commitment as expected. However, the current study demonstrates that the moderator affects the link between brand community commitment and repurchase intention indicating moderated mediation. In other words, the relationship between the two constructs becomes stronger in the marketer-generated online brand community. Consequently, the type of online brand community affects the links between the six social motivations and repurchase intention. Specifically, the effects of the six motivations on repurchase intention become stronger in the marketer-generated online community.
Cultural Values and Career Goal of Gen-x and Gen-y Employees: Evidence From Selected Malaysian Companies
Authors: Ismail Maimunah , Abd Rahim Atikah Nadia , Lee Kim Hou , Mohd Thahrir Nurul Fariza
Published: October 2019

This paper seeks to compare the influence of dimensions of cultural values of self-enhancement, self-transcendence, conservation, and openness to change on career goal among Gen-X and Gen-Y employees in selected Malaysian industrial companies. This study used the Social Cognitive Career Theory as its underlying theoretical framework. A total of 264 personnel from oil and gas, information, communication and technology (ICT), as well as banking and insurance companies participated in the study of whom 48 and 216 are Gen-X and Gen-Y employees, respectively. The multiple linear regression analysis found self-enhancement and conservation predicted significantly the career goal of Gen-X; while self-enhancement, self-transcendence, conservation predicted significantly the career goal of Gen-Y, with the explanatory power of the former (33%) being greater than the latter (28%). Recommendations for human resource management and future research are discussed.
Knowledge Transfer Between Expatriates and Host Country Nationals: Contribution of Individual and Social Capital Factors
Authors: Ismail Maimunah , Sobri Sayang Syamira , Zulkifly Nuruf Afiqah , Hamzah Siti Raba'ah , Yamato Eriko
Published: October 2019

This paper presents a study on the contribution of individual factors (cultural intelligence and feedback-seeking behaviour) and social capital factors (shared vision and trust) on knowledge transfer between expatriates and host country nationals (HCNs) as perceived by expatriates. The study adopted Social Capital Theory, and Anxiety and Uncertainty Management Theory to support the theoretical framework of the investigation. Data were analysed from a sample of 90 expatriates from selected universities and multinational corporations (MNCs) in the area of Klang Valley, Malaysia. The results reveal that there is a positive relationship between individual factors as well as social capital factors and knowledge transfer. In addition, only shared vision shows a significant influence on knowledge transfer. The regression results disclose that the variables explain 24.1% of variance in knowledge transfer.