bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extensive brainstem infiltration, not mass effect, is a common feature of end-stage cerebral glioblastomas
Authors: Drumm Michael R , Dixit Karan S , Grimm Sean , Kumthekar Priya , Lukas Rimas V , Raizer Jeffrey J , Stupp Roger , Chheda Milan G , Kam Kwok-Ling , McCord Matthew , Sachdev Sean , Kruser Timothy , Steffens Alicia , Javier Rodrigo , McCortney Kathleen , Horbinski Craig
Published: November 2019

Background

Progress in extending the survival of glioblastoma (GBM) patients has been slow. A better understanding of why patient survival remains poor is critical to developing new strategies. Postmortem studies on GBM can shed light on why patients are dying.

Methods

The brains of 33 GBM patients were autopsied and examined for gross and microscopic abnormalities. Clinical-pathologic correlations were accomplished through detailed chart reviews. Data were compared with older published autopsy GBM studies that predated newer treatment strategies, such as more extensive surgical resection and adjuvant temozolomide.

Results

In older GBM autopsy series, mass effect was observed in 72% of brains, with herniation in 50% of all cases. Infiltration of tumor into the brainstem was noted in only 21% of those older cases. In the current series, only 10 of 33 (30%) GBMs showed mass effect (P = 0.0003), and only 1 (3%) showed herniation (P < 0.0001). However, extensive GBM infiltration of the brainstem was present in 22 cases (67%, P < 0.0001), with accompanying destruction of the pons and white matter tracts. There was a direct correlation between longer median patient survival and the presence of brainstem infiltration (16.1 mo in brainstem-invaded cases vs 9.0 mo in cases lacking extensive brainstem involvement; P = 0.0003).

Conclusions

With improving care, severe mass effect appears to be less common in GBM patients today, whereas dissemination, including life-threatening brainstem invasion, is now more pronounced. This has major implications regarding preclinical GBM models, as well as the design of clinical trials aimed at further improving patient survival.
Aberrant reward prediction error during Pavlovian appetitive learning in alexithymia
Authors: Starita Francesca , Pietrelli Mattia , Bertini Caterina , di Pellegrino Giuseppe
Published: November 2019

Extensive literature shows that alexithymia, a subclinical trait defined by difficulties in identifying and describing feelings, is characterized by multifaceted impairments in processing emotional stimuli. Nevertheless, its underlying mechanisms remain elusive. Here, we hypothesize that alexithymia may be characterized by an alteration in learning the emotional value of encountered stimuli and test this by assessing differences between individuals with low (LA) and high (HA) levels of alexithymia in the computation of reward prediction errors (RPEs) during Pavlovian appetitive conditioning. As a marker of RPE, the amplitude of the feedback-related negativity (FRN) event-related potential was assessed while participants were presented with two conditioned stimuli (CS) associated with expected or unexpected feedback, indicating delivery of reward or no-reward. No-reward (vs reward) feedback elicited the FRN both in LA and HA. However, unexpected (vs expected) feedback enhanced the FRN in LA but not in HA, indicating impaired computation of RPE in HA. Thus, although HA show preserved sensitivity to rewards, they cannot use this response to update the value of CS that predict them. This impairment may hinder the construction of internal representations of emotional stimuli, leaving individuals with alexithymia unable to effectively recognize, respond and regulate their response to emotional stimuli.
SIRT1 facilitates primordial follicle recruitment independent of deacetylase activity through directly modulating Akt1 and mTOR transcription
Authors: Zhang Tuo , Du Xinhua , Zhao Lihua , He Meina , Lin Lin , Guo Chuanhui , Zhang Xinran , Han Jun , Yan Hao , Huang Kun , Sun Guanghong , Yan Lei , Zhou Bo , Xia Guoliang , Qin YingYing , Wang Chao
Published: November 2019

In female mammals, the majority of primordial follicles (PFs) are physiologically quiescent, and only a few of them are activated and enter the growing follicle pool. Specific molecules, such as mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) and the serine/threonine kinase Akt (AKT), have been proven to be important for PF activation. However, how the transcription of these genes is regulated is not clear. Although activators of mTOR or AKT have been successfully used to rescue the fertility of patients with premature ovarian insufficiency, the low efficacy and unclear safety profile of these drugs hinder their clinical use in the in vitro activation (IVA) of PFs. Here, sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), an NAD‐dependent deacetylase, was demonstrated to activate mouse PFs independent of its deacetylase activity. SIRT1 was prominently expressed in pregranulosa cells (pGCs) and oocytes, and its expression was increased during PF activation. PF activation was achieved by either up‐regulating SIRT1 with a specific activator or overexpressing SIRT1. Moreover, SIRT1 knockdown in oocytes or pGCs could significantly suppress PF activation. Further studies demonstrated that SIRT1 enhanced both Akt1 and mTOR expression by acting more as a transcription cofactor, directly binding to the respective gene promoters, than as a deacetylase. Importantly, we explored the potential clinical applications of targeting SIRT1 in IVA via short‐term treatment of cultured ovaries from mice and human ovarian tissues to activate PFs by applying the SIRT1 activator resveratrol. RSV‐induced IVA could be a candidate strategy to develop more efficient procedures for future clinical treatment of infertility.—Zhang, T., Du, X., Zhao, L., He, M., Lin, L., Guo, C., Zhang, X., Han, J., Yan, H., Huang, K., Sun, G., Yan, L., Zhou, B., Xia, G., Qin, Y., Wang, C. SIRT1 facilitates primordial follicle recruitment independent of deacetylase activity through directly modulating Akt1 and mTOR transcription. FASEB J. 33, 14703‐14716 (2019). www.fasebj.org
Methplotlib: analysis of modified nucleotides from nanopore sequencing
Authors: De Coster Wouter , Strazisar Mojca
Published: November 2019

Modified nucleotides play a crucial role in gene expression regulation. Here we describe methplotlib, a tool developed for the visualization of modified nucleotides detected from Oxford Nanopore Technologies sequencing platforms, together with additional scripts for statistical analysis of allele specific modification within subjects and differential modification frequency across subjects.

Availability and implementation

The methplotlib command-line tool is written in Python3, is compatible with Linux, Mac OS and the MS Windows 10 Subsystem for Linux and released under the MIT license. The source code can be found at https://github.com/wdecoster/methplotlib and can be installed from PyPI and bioconda. Our repository includes test data and the tool is continuously tested at travis-ci.com.

Contact

wouter.decoster@uantwerpen.vib.be
A thorough analysis of the contribution of experimental, derived and sequence-based predicted protein-protein interactions for functional annotation of proteins
Authors: Makrodimitris Stavros , Reinders Marcel , van Ham Roeland
Published: November 2019

Physical interaction between two proteins is strong evidence that the proteins are involved in the same biological process, making Protein-Protein Interaction (PPI) networks a valuable data resource for predicting the cellular functions of proteins. However, PPI networks are largely incomplete for non-model species. Here, we tested to what extened these incomplete networks are still useful for genome-wide function prediction. We used two network-based classifiers to predict Biological Process Gene Ontology terms from protein interaction data in four species: Saccharomyces cerevisiae, Escherichia coli, Arabidopsis thaliana and Solanum lycopersicum (tomato). The classifiers had reasonable performance in the well-studied yeast, but performed poorly in the other species. We showed that this poor performance can be considerably improved by adding edges predicted from various data sources, such as text mining, and that associations from the STRING database are more useful than interactions predicted by a neural network from sequence-based features.
The diet and feeding behaviour of the black-and-white colobus (Colobus guereza) in the Kalinzu Forest, Uganda
Authors: Matsuda Ikki , Ihobe Hiroshi , Tashiro Yasuko , Yumoto Takakazu , Baranga Deborah , Hashimoto Chie
Published: November 2019

One of the goals for primate feeding ecology is to understand the factors that affect inter- and intra-specific variations. Therefore, a detailed description of basic feeding ecology in as many populations and sites as possible is necessary and warrants further understanding. The black-and-white colobus (Colobus guereza) or guereza is widely distributed in Africa and is one of the well-studied colobines in terms of their feeding; they demonstrate considerable variation in their diets in response to local conditions. We studied the diet of a group of guerezas in the Kalinzu Forest, Uganda, for over 30 consecutive months using behavioural observation (4,308 h total), phenology, and vegetation surveys. A total of 31 plant species were consumed by the study group. This study group was predominantly folivorous; the majority of their feeding time was involved in feeding on young leaves (87%). However, during certain times of the year, fruits and seeds accounted for 45% of monthly feeding time. Young leaves of Celtis durandii were by far the most important food, which constituted 58% of the total feeding records. There was a significant increase in the consumption of fruits and flowers once young leaf availability was low, but their consumption of fruits did not significantly increase even when fruit availability was high. Their monthly dietary diversity increased as the number of available plants with young leaves declined, suggesting that much of the dietary diversity in the study group may be attributable to the young leaf portion of their diet. Our findings may help contribute to a better understanding of the dietary adaptations and feeding ecology of guerezas in response to local environmental conditions.
Cavefish brain atlases reveal functional and anatomical convergence across independently evolved populations
Authors: Jaggard James , Lloyd Evan , Yuiska Anders , Patch Adam , Fily Yaouen , Kowalko Johanna E. , Appelbaum Lior , Duboue Erik R. , Keene Alex C.
Published: November 2019

Environmental perturbation can drive the evolution of behavior and associated changes in brain structure and function. The generation of computationally-derived whole-brain atlases have provided insight into neural connectivity associated with behavior in many model systems. However, these approaches have not been used to study the evolution of brain structure in vertebrates. The Mexican tetra,A. mexicanus, comprises river-dwelling surface fish and multiple independently evolved populations of blind cavefish, providing a unique opportunity to identify neuroanatomical and functional differences associated with behavioral evolution. We employed intact brain imaging and image registration on 684 larval fish to generate neuroanatomical atlases of surface fish and three different cave populations. Analyses of brain regions and neural circuits associated with behavioral regulation identified convergence on hypothalamic expansion, as well as changes in transmitter systems including elevated numbers of catecholamine and hypocretin neurons in cavefish populations. To define evolutionarily-derived changes in brain function, we performed whole brain activity mapping associated with feeding and sleep. Feeding evoked neural activity in different sensory processing centers in surface and cavefish. We also identified multiple brain regions with sleep-associated activity across all four populations, including the rostral zone of the hypothalamus and tegmentum. Together, these atlases represent the first comparative brain-wide study of intraspecies variation in a vertebrate model, and provide a resource for studying the neural basis underlying behavioral evolution.
Arabidopsis RNA Polymerase IV generates 21-22 nucleotide small RNAs that can participate in RNA-directed DNA methylation and may regulate genes
Authors: Panda Kaushik , McCue Andrea D. , Slotkin R. Keith
Published: November 2019

The plant-specific RNA Polymerase IV (Pol IV) transcribes heterochromatic regions, including many transposable elements, with the well-described role of generating 24 nucleotide (nt) small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). These siRNAs target DNA methylation back to transposable elements to reinforce the boundary between heterochromatin and euchromatin. In the male gametophytic phase of the plant life cycle, pollen, Pol IV switches to generating primarily 21-22 nt siRNAs, but the biogenesis and function of these siRNAs has been enigmatic. In contrast to being pollen-specific, we identified that Pol IV generates these 21-22 nt siRNAs in sporophytic tissues, likely from the same transcripts that are processed into the more abundant 24 nt siRNAs. The 21-22 nt forms are specifically generated by the combined activities of DICER proteins DCL2/DCL4 and can participate in RNA-directed DNA methylation. These 21-22 nt siRNAs are also loaded into ARGONAUTE1, which is known to function in post-transcriptional regulation. Like other plant siRNAs and microRNAs incorporated into AGO1, we find a signature of genic mRNA cleavage at the predicted target site of these siRNAs, suggesting that Pol IV-generated 21-22 nt siRNAs may function to regulate gene transcript abundance. Our data provides support for the existing model that in pollen Pol IV functions in gene regulation.
Computational Approach for Screening the Whole Proteome of Hantavirus and Designing a Multi-Epitope Subunit Vaccine
Authors: Abdulla Faruq , Nain Zulkar , Hossain Md. Moyazzem , Sayed Sifat Bin , Khan Md. Shakil Ahmed , Adhikari Utpal Kumar
Published: November 2019

Hantaviruses are a newly zoonotic emerging group of rodent-borne viruses that have a significant impact on global public health by increasing amplitude and magnitude of outbreaks. As no permanent cure yet, it is now growing and challenging interest to develop a vaccine against Hantavirus. This study endeavored to design a robust subunit vaccine using a novel immunoinformatics approach. After meticulous evaluation, top ones from predicted CTL, HTL, and B-cell epitopes were considered as potential vaccine candidates. Among generated four vaccine models with different adjuvant, the model with TLR-4 agonist adjuvant was selected for its high antigenicity, non-allergenicity, and structural quality. The conformational B-cell epitope prediction assured its humoral response inducing ability. Thereafter, the molecular docking and dynamics simulation confirmed a good binding affinity with immune receptor TLR-4 and stability of the vaccine-receptor complex. In immune simulation, significantly high levels of IgM and IgG1 immunoglobulins, TCand TH-cell populations, and various cytokines (i.e. IFN-γ, IL-2 etc.) are coherence with actual immune response and also showed faster antigen clearance for repeated exposures. Finally, disulfide engineering enhanced vaccine stability andin silicocloning confirmed the better expression inE. coliK12. Nonetheless, experimental validation can proof the proposed vaccine’s safety and ability to control Hantavirus infection.
Predictive whisker kinematics reveal context-dependent sensorimotor strategies
Authors: Wallach Avner , Deutsch David , Oram Tess , Ahissar Ehud
Published: November 2019

Animals actively move their sensory organs in order to acquire sensory information. Some rodents, such as mice and rats, employ cyclic scanning motions of their facial whiskers to explore their proximal surrounding, a behavior known as whisking. Here we investigated the contingency of whisking kinematics on the animal’s behavioral context that arises from both internal processes (attention and expectations) and external constraints (available sensory and motor degrees of freedom). We recorded rat whisking at high temporal resolution in two experimental contexts - freely moving or head-fixed – and two spatial sensory configurations – a single row or three caudal whiskers on each side of the snout. We found that rapid sensorimotor twitches, called pumps, occurring during free-air whisking carry information about the rat’s upcoming exploratory direction, as demonstrated by the ability of these pumps to predict consequent head and body locomotion. Specifically, pump behavior during both voluntary motionlessness and imposed head-fixation exposed a backward redistribution of sensorimotor exploratory resources. Further, head-fixed rats employed a wide range of whisking profiles to compensate for the loss of head- and body-motor degrees of freedom. Finally, changing the number of intact vibrissae available to a rat resulted in an alteration of whisking strategy consistent with the rat actively reallocating its remaining resources. In sum, this work shows that rats adapt their active exploratory behavior in a “homeostatic” attempt to preserve sensorimotor coverage under changing environmental conditions and changing sensory capacities, including those imposed by various laboratory conditions.
CRISPR-based screens uncover determinants of immunotherapy response in Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Ramkumar Poornima , Abarientos Anthony B. , Tian Ruilin , Seyler Meghan , Leong Jaime T. , Chen Merissa , Choudhry Priya , Hechler Torsten , Shah Nina , Wong Sandy W. , Martin Thomas G. , Wolf Jeffrey L. , Roybal Kole T. , Pahl Andreas , Taunton Jack , Wiita Arun P. , Kampmann Martin
Published: November 2019

Cancer cells commonly develop resistance to immunotherapy by loss of antigen expression. Combinatorial treatments that increase levels of the target antigen on the surface of cancer cells have the potential to restore efficacy to immunotherapy. Here, we use our CRISPR interference and CRISPR activation-based functional genomics platform to systematically identify pathways controlling cell-surface expression of the multiple myeloma immunotherapy antigen - B cell maturation antigen, BCMA. We discovered that pharmacological inhibition of HDAC7 and the Sec61 complex increased cell-surface BCMA, including in primary patient cells. Importantly, pharmacological Sec61 inhibition enhanced the anti-myeloma efficacy of a BCMA-targeted antibody-drug conjugate. A CRISPR interference CAR-T coculture screen enabled us to identify both antigen-dependent and -independent mechanisms controlling response of myeloma cells to BCMA-targeted CAR-T cells. Thus, our study demonstrates the potential of CRISPR screens to uncover mechanisms controlling response of cancer cells to immunotherapy and to suggest potential combination therapies.

Key Points

Using CRISPR screens, we systematically identify mechanisms increasing expression of the immunotherapy target BCMA and ADC efficacy.

We also identify antigen-independent mechanisms regulating response of cancer cells to BCMA-CAR-T cells.
Transneuronal Dpr12/DIP-δ interactions facilitate compartmentalized dopaminergic innervation ofDrosophilamushroom body axons
Authors: Bornstein Bavat , Alyagor Idan , Berkun Victoria , Meltzer Hagar , Reh Fabienne , Keren-Shaul Hadas , David Eyal , Riemensperger Thomas , Schuldiner Oren
Published: November 2019

The mechanisms controlling wiring of neuronal networks are largely unknown. The stereotypic architecture of theDrosophilamushroom-body (MB) offers a unique system to study circuit assembly. The adult medial MB γ-lobe is comprised of a long bundle of axons that wires with specific modulatory and output neurons in a tiled manner defining five distinct zones. We found that the immunoglobulin superfamily protein Dpr12 is cell-autonomously required in γ-neurons for their developmental regrowth into the distal γ4/5 zones, where both Dpr12 and its interacting protein, DIP-δ, are enriched. DIP-δ functions in a subset of dopaminergic neurons that wire with γ-neurons within the γ4/5 zone. During metamorphosis, these dopaminergic projections arrive to the γ4/5 zone prior to γ-axons, suggesting that γ-axons extend through a prepatterned region. Thus, Dpr12/DIP-δ transneuronal interaction is required for γ4/5 zone formation. Our study sheds light onto molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying circuit formation within subcellular resolution.
Compliant assembly deviation analysis of large-scale thin-walled structures in different clamping schemes via ANCF
Authors: Xu Xun , Yu Haidong , Li Yunyong , Lai Xinmin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The structure stiffness is greatly affected by the fixture constraints during assembly due to the flexibility of large-scale thin-walled structures. The compliant deformation of structures is usually not consistent for the non-uniform stiffness in various clamping schemes. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the correlation between the assembly quality and the clamping schemes of structures with various initial deviations and geometrical parameters, which is based on the proposed irregular quadrilateral plate element via absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF).

Design/methodology/approach

Two typical clamping schemes are specified for the large-scale thin-walled structures. Two typical deviation modes are defined in both free and clamping states in the corresponding clamping schemes. The new irregular quadrilateral plate element via ANCF is validated to analyze the compliant deformation of assembled structures. The quasi-static force equilibrium equations are extended considering the factors of clamping constraints and geometric deviations.

Findings

The initial deviations and geometrical parameters strongly affect the assembly deviations of structures in two clamping schemes. The variation tendencies of assembly deviations are demonstrated in details with the circumferential clamping position and axial clamping position in two clamping schemes, providing guidance to optimize the fixture configuration. The assembly quality of structures with deviations can be improved by configuration synthesis of the clamping schemes.

Originality/value

Typical over-constraint clamping schemes and deviation modes in clamping states are defined for large-scale thin-walled structures. The plate element via ANCF is extended to analyze the assembly deviations of thin-walled structures in various clamping schemes. Based on the proposed theoretical model, the effects of clamping schemes and initial deviations on the deformation and assembly deviation propagation of structures are investigated.
Design of e-learning and online tutoring as learning support for academic writing
Authors: Iwasaki Chiaki , Tada Yasuhiro , Furukawa Tomoki , Sasaki Kaede , Yamada Yoshinori , Nakazawa Tsutomu , Ikezawa Tomoya
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the development and assessment of learning support environments for academic writing that utilize ICT, such as e-learning and online tutoring, in Japanese higher education. First, the authors introduce the design of an e-learning writing program for the Japanese language and assess whether the program is an effective learning support tool for undergraduates. Second, the authors analyze and assess online tutoring support for academic writing and clarify the merits and disadvantages of online and offline tutoring at writing centers, then suggest instructional strategies by analyzing the writing tutoring process.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors adopted e-learning goals to assess its effectiveness. The authors asked the participants questions they could answer from five-point scales, conducted a paired t-test, and included a free description-type questionnaire. Then, to assess online tutoring, the 12 students took pre- and post-test questionnaires, after which the authors conducted a Wilcoxon signed rank test. In addition, the authors carried out a Kruskal–Wallis rank sum test in order to confirm differences in satisfaction level and the effectiveness of face-to-face tutoring and online tutoring.

Findings

By analyzing the pre- and post-test results, the t-test confirmed that the students found the e-learning system to be effective for nurturing academic literacy. This means the system is appropriate as a support tool for nurturing academic writing, especially writing knowledge and rules, and university must provide a comprehensive learning support environment including e-learning. Next, the authors found no statistically significant difference between face-to-face and online tutoring, although some problems with the writing process remained. So online tutoring has opportunity to promote autonomous learning. The research results make it clear that because of writing centers’ potential and their effectiveness in utilizing ICT tools.

Originality/value

Research findings about academic writing are to improve the tutoring process and writing strategies, such as the use of ICT for academic writing support like e-learning, online tutoring, do not exist. To provide learning opportunity to learners and promote autonomous learning, e-learning and online tutoring are important. For the reasons noted above, it is necessary to provide an alternative writing support environment to students in Japan. Therefore, the authors report on and assess the development of learning support environments for e-learning programs and online tutoring for academic writing at the undergraduate level in Japan.
Micro-enterprise development training and entrepreneurial competencies among low-income households in Malaysia
Authors: Al Mamun Abdullah , Muniady Rajennd , Fazal Syed Ali , Malarvizhi C.A.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Low-income households form a significant portion of the Malaysian population. To improve the socio-economic condition of low-income households, development organizations in Malaysia offer a wide range of development trainings, discussions and group or center meetings. This study aims to examine the impact of enterprise development training programs on entrepreneurial competencies among Peninsular Malaysia microentrepreneurs.

Design/methodology/approach

Adopting a cross-sectional design, the authors collected data from 300 randomly selected microentrepreneurs from the list of microentrepreneurs provided by eKasih (the National Poverty Data Bank), across four states of Peninsular Malaysia. Quantitative data were collected through structured interviews with the respondents from October to November 2017.

Findings

The findings revealed that enterprise development training programs significantly affected three of six entrepreneurial competencies (i.e. opportunity recognition competency, organizing competency and relationship competency). These findings highlight the importance of enterprise development training programs towards microentrepreneurs in increasing their competencies.

Originality/value

Through its insights, the study enriches the understanding of low-income communities in emerging economies, while offering significant practical implications. Based on findings, it is recommended that development organizations should therefore continue the current microenterprise development training programs. With improved entrepreneurial competencies, microentrepreneurs can thrive amidst competition yet sustaining business performance.
It tastes better when Bach meets red: the role of music and plate color on food evaluation
Authors: Cho Chloe Hyojin , Mattila Anna , Bordi Peter , Kwon Eunjin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of arousal fit between music (auditory cues) and plate color (visual cues) on food evaluations.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 (background music: high vs low arousal) ×2 (plate color: high vs low arousal) between-subjects experimental design was employed to test the hypotheses. Participants were recruited for a taste test in a food sensory lab located in a university in the northeastern USA. The dependent variable, food evaluation, was analyzed using analysis of covariance (ANCOVA).

Findings

The findings of this study indicate that when the two stimuli had congruent arousal qualities, participants rated the liking and perceived quality of a food item higher than those in the incongruent arousal conditions. More specifically, when the background music was high in arousal quality, participants gave higher evaluations for a food item served on a red (vs blue) plate. Conversely, when a low arousal music piece was played, a blue (vs red) plate resulted in higher food evaluations.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the growing literature on cross-modal correspondence on consumers’ product evaluations. Extending previous research on the congruity effect to the food sensory literature, this study demonstrates the joint effects of background music and plate color on taste perceptions. The results suggest that restaurant operators should be strategic in their choice of physical stimuli.

Originality/value

The present study measured participants taste perceptions while they were exposed to visual and auditory cues. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that empirically demonstrates the impact of multiple environmental factors on taste evaluation.
Communication patterns to address the consumption of PDO products
Authors: Bonetti Enrico , Mattiacci Alberto , Simoni Michele
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the communication patterns adopted by special organisations, called Producers’ Consortia, to promote Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) products. In particular, the paper analyses the key differences among the communication patterns in terms of the task assigned to communication, the communication tools employed to convey key messages to customers and the amount of the budget allocated to the mix of communication.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors analysed the communication activities conducted by all the Italian Consortia (112 in total) over a period of four years. A centred log-ratio transformation (clr) was applied to make the compositional data treatable in the Euclidean space. A clustering procedure was then followed to identify the different communication patterns adopted by the Consortia. The authors adopted an analytical framework where different communication patterns of Consortia are identified by the mostly used types (traditional advertising, public relations and digital communication) and the corresponding aimed consumer response (i.e. awareness, attitude and engagement).

Findings

This paper identifies four relevant and different communication patterns that co-exist in the Italian PDO market. Each pattern responds to a different logic and focusses on a specific task assigned to communication: to increase the awareness of the PDO label, to improve the attitude towards the PDO products and to enhance the engagement with the PDO’s values.

Research limitations/implications

PDO products are key assets of a growing relevance for the European agri-food industry and consumer education is at the very core of the PDO labelling system. By law, the Consortia are in charge of the crucial task of communicating to customers. This research suggests that the communication of PDO is a complex activity that requires a careful choice of the right communication mix. Different patterns are driven by specific logic and are suitable for Consortia with different characteristics. Future research could complete the results of this study using a qualitative analysis of the content of communication activities. Caution should be used when generalising these findings to markets that present relevant differences in consumer food culture.

Practical implications

This research identifies some possible communication mixes that managers of the Consortia can adopt to promote PDO products and some options that can guide the development of their communication activities over time.

Originality/value

This work adds value to the literature on food marketing, and more specifically on food communication, by analysing the yet underexplored issue of how PDO products can be promoted in the “post-modern” food consumption era.
Twenty-five years of Benchmarking: An International Journal (BIJ)
Authors: Kumar Satish , Kamble Sachin , Roy Matthew H.
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This year, Benchmarking: An International Journal (BIJ) is celebrating its 25th anniversary. The purpose of this paper is to show the historical connections and professional impact of the journal over the years. This is accomplished through a detailed bibliometric analysis (BA) of its content from 1994 to 2018. This paper also identifies leading trends that have affected BIJ during this time frame.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors employ BA on data retrieved from the Scopus database. The authors used various indicators such as the most productive authors, institutions and countries, as well as the most cited papers, citing journals and articles most cited by BIJ between 1994 and 2018. Additionally, the authors have used the Gephi, VOSviewer software to map journals, keywords and institutions with bibliographic coupling and co-citation analysis.

Findings

The journal has improved its impact, productivity and reputation in the period under review. Articles published in BIJ have been cited in other journals more than 15,000 times. The most prominent themes among the articles published in BIJ are benchmarking, supply chain management and performance improvement. Significant contributions have come from authors and institutions around the globe. Co-authorships, though global, have centered around India, the USA and the UK. There is also a thematic similarity between articles from India and Thailand, and the USA and Germany, indicating high academic collaboration or prevalence of similar issues.

Practical implications

This paper provides evidence of the impact of BIJ, and in so doing, it helps authors to decide on the appropriateness of this publication for their research. The reader will also understand leading trends occurring in BIJ over the history of the journal.

Originality/value

This is the first paper that traces the progress of BIJ covering a time span of 25 years.
MAF Carrefour Jordan: management control systems at an early-stage retail company
Authors: Du Yan , Salameh Elie
Published: November 2019

Learning outcomes

Through the discussion of this case, students will have a better understanding of the managerial dilemma associated with the implementation of management control in an early-stage firm. Students will provide proposals to improving current management control. Finally, this case encourages students to think about the costs and benefits of implementing formal management control systems.

Case overview/synopsis

As the company grows, it becomes difficult to keep control of the organization. The organizational structure of Majid Al Futtaim (MAF) Carrefour Jordan is too centralized, and the top management is confronted with information overload, which inhibits their ability to pursue strategic goals. The department managers are also confronted with communication problems, and they are evaluated based on the indicators that were out of their control. Processes and rules do not permit managers sufficient autonomy, and neither do these motivate employees towards organizational strategic goals. It is obvious that many control issues needed to be addressed in MAF Carrefour Jordan. However, given the limited budgets, MAF Carrefour Jordan managers need to decide which control systems to implement first.

Complexity academic level

This case can be used in an introductory cost accounting and management control course at the undergraduate or postgraduate level. The case should be introduced after students attained a baseline understanding of management control system fundamental concepts. However, this case is equally effective in introducing concepts to students who are new to management control systems.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes.

Subject code

CSS 1: Accounting and Finance
The effects of entrepreneurship education on students’ entrepreneurial intentions
Authors: Otache Innocent , Umar Kadiri , Audu Yakubu , Onalo Ugbede
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to employ a longitudinal approach to assess the effects of entrepreneurship education (EE) on students’ entrepreneurial intentions (EIs) through the constructs of the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), which include attitudes towards behaviour (ATB), subjective norms (SN) and perceived behavioural control (PBC). Specifically, this study aims to achieve two objectives: first, to determine if students’ ATB, SN, PBC and EIs would increase significantly after their exposure to EE; and second, to establish whether students’ ATB, SN and PBC mediate the relationship between EE and their EIs.

Design/methodology/approach

This longitudinal study employed a one-group pretest-posttest experimental research design. A self-reported questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected sample of 250 National Diploma students from five polytechnics in the North Central part of Nigeria before and after they were exposed to EE. To achieve the objectives of this study, repeated-measurest-test and partial least squares structural equation modelling were performed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences and SmartPLS, respectively, for data analysis.

Findings

The results of the paired-samplest-test showed that students’ ATB, SN, PBC and EIs increased significantly after their exposure to EE. Also, further data analysis revealed that EE had a significantly positive relationship with students’ ATB, SN, PBC and EIs. Similarly, the results of the structural model indicated that ATB had a significantly positive link with students’ EIs and also mediated the relationship between EE and students’ EIs. SN and PBC had a positive but not statistically significant relationship with students’ EIs and did not mediate the relationship between EE and students’ EIs.

Practical implications

The findings of this study provide interesting implications for EE and entrepreneurship policies in Nigeria. More specifically, the findings provide some practical implications for the Nigerian government and the EE curriculum developers. To achieve greater impact of EE on students’ EIs at the tertiary education level, the Nigerian government should incorporate EE into the curricula at the primary and secondary education levels. Equipping students at the primary and secondary education levels with entrepreneurial knowledge, competencies and skills would enable them to develop a strong entrepreneurial mindset even before they gain admission to tertiary institutions.

Originality/value

It is one of the few studies that have tested empirically both the direct and the indirect effects of EE on students’ EIs in a single study. Thus, it helps to further clarify the links between EE and EIs. Besides, it is among the first studies to adopt a longitudinal approach to assess the effects of EE on students’ EIs through the constructs of the TPB (i.e. ATB, SN and PBC) in the Nigerian context.
Numerical investigation of multiphase blood flow coupled with lumped parameter model of outflow
Authors: Melka Bartlomiej , Adamczyk Wojciech P. , Rojczyk Marek , Nowak Marcin L. , Gracka Maria , Nowak Andrzej J. , Golda Adam , Bialecki Ryszard A. , Ostrowski Ziemowit
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is the application of the computational fluid dynamics model simulating the blood flow within the aorta of an eight-year-old patient with Coarctation of Aorta.

Design/methodology/approach

The numerical model, based on commercial code ANSYS Fluent, was built using the multifluid Euler–Euler approach with the interaction between the phases described by the kinetic theory of granular flow (KTGF).

Findings

A model of the blood flow in the arches of the main aorta branches has been presented. The model was built using the multifluid Euler–Euler approach with the interaction between the phases described by the KTGF. The flow and pressure patterns, as well as the volumetric concentration of the blood components, were calculated. The lumped parameter model was implemented to couple the interaction of the computational domain with the remaining portion of the vascular bed.

Originality/value

The multiphase model based on the Euler–Euler approach describing blood flow in the branched large vessel with a three-element Windkessel model in the coarcted geometry was not previously described in the literature.
LBM simulation of piezo fan in square enclosure
Authors: Abdollahzadeh Jamalabadi Mohammad Yaghoub
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the use of a piezo fan in an enclosure on wall heat transfer and thermal boundary layer profile in constant wall temperature situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The governing partial differential equations of mass, momentum and energy in addition to boundary conditions are solved by lattice Boltzmann method. The problem is solved numerically using D2Q9 population's model and Bhatnagar–Gross–Krook collision model with a code written in MATLAB.

Findings

The effects of Prandtl number (Pr) and the frequency of piezo fan vibrations are critically investigated on the hydrothermal characteristics of the square cavity. The mesh independency study and the validation of the proposed model are accomplished with numerical results of Ghia et al. (1982) and analytical solution of pure conduction very good agreement is found between present results and benchmark findings. Generally, with increasing beam frequency, the heat removal from heat source increased. It is found that, for all Prandtl numbers, wall Nusselt number will increase with the increase of the beam frequency. This enhancement is more intense in higher Prandtl number.

Originality/value

Based on these results, the use of piezo fan in an enclosure can be classified as standalone as well as heat sink integrated cooling solution.
Compliance with materiality in G4-sustainability reports by electric utilities
Authors: Slacik Johannes , Greiling Dorothea
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Materiality as an emerging trend aims to make sustainability reports (SR) more relevant for stakeholders. This paper aims to investigate whether the reporting practice of electric utility companies (EUC) is in compliance with the materiality principle of the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) when disclosing SR.

Design/methodology/approach

A twofold content analysis focusing on material aspects (MAs) is conducted, followed by correlation analysis. Logic and conversation theory (LCT) serves to evaluate the communication quality of documented materiality in SR by EUC.

Findings

The coverage and quality of documented MAs in SR by EUC do not meet the requirements for relevant and transparent communication. Materiality does not guide the reporting practice and is not taken seriously.

Research limitations/implications

Mediocre quality of coverage and communication in SR shows that stakeholders’ information needs are not considered adequately. The content analysis is limited in focusing on merely documented aspects rather than on actual performance.

Originality/value

This study considers the quality of communication of documented materiality through the lens of LCT. It contributes to the academic debate by introducing LCT as a viable theoretical perspective for analyzing SR. The paper evaluates GRI-G4 reporting practices in the electricity sector, which, while under-researched is crucial for sustainability. It also contributes to the emerging body of empirical research on the relevance of materiality as a guiding principle for sustainability reporting.
Sustainable supply chain management: continuing evolution and future directions
Authors: Carter Craig R. , Hatton Marc R. , Wu Chao , Chen Xiangjing
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to update the work of Carter and Easton (2011), by conducting a systematic review of the sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) literature in the primary logistics and supply chain management journals, during the 2010–2018 timeframe.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a systematic literature review (SLR) methodology which follows the methodology employed by Carter and Easton (2011). An evaluation of this methodology, using the Modified AMSTAR criteria, demonstrates a high level of empirical validity.

Findings

The field of SSCM continues to evolve with changes in substantive focus, theoretical lenses, unit of analysis, methodology and type of analysis. However, there are still abundant future research opportunities, including investigating under-researched topics such as diversity and human rights/working conditions, employing the group as the unit of analysis and better addressing empirical validity and social desirability bias.

Research limitations/implications

The findings result in prescriptions and a broad agenda to guide future research in the SSCM arena. The final section of the paper provides additional avenues for future research surrounding theory development and decision making.

Originality/value

This SLR provides a rigorous, methodologically valid review of the continuing evolution of empirical SSCM research over a 28-year time period.
Subjective social class and individual preferences for redistribution
Authors: Duman Anil
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The recent increase in economic inequalities in many countries heightened the debates about policy preferences on income distribution. Attitudes toward inequality vary greatly across countries and numerous explanations are offered to clarify the factors leading to support for redistribution. The purpose of this paper is to examine the link between subjective social class and redistributive demands by jointly considering the individual and national factors. The author argues that subjective measures of social positions can be highly explanatory for preferences about redistribution policies.

Design/methodology/approach

The author uses data from 48 countries gathered by World Values Survey and empirically tests the impact of self-positioning into classes by multilevel ordered logit model. Several model specifications and estimation strategies have been employed to obtain consistent estimates and to check for the robustness of the results.

Findings

The findings show that, in addition to objective factors, subjective class status is highly explanatory for redistributive preferences across countries. The author also exhibits that there is interaction between self-ranking of social status and national context. The author’s estimations from the multilevel models verify that subjective social class has greater explanatory power in more equal societies. This is in contrast to the previous studies that establish a positive link between inequality and redistribution.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature by introducing subjective social class as a determinant. Self-ranked positions can be very relieving about policy preferences given the information these categorizations encompass about individuals’ perceptions about their and others’ place in the society.