bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cucumber Mosaic Virusand their associated satellite RNAs infecting banana (Musa sp. Genomic group AAA)in Côte d’Ivoire : A molecular characterization
Authors: Koua Dominique K. , Ebou Anicet , Kouadio Theodore K. , Lepoivre Philippe , Massart Sébastien
Published: November 2020

In Côte d’Ivoire, banana (Musa sp.) ranks third among exportation products and represents 3% of the Gross Domestic Product with a national production up to 500000 tons in 2019. Banana is subject to numerous disease agents among which viruses cause significant losses. To figure out the impact of viruses in Ivorian industrial banana fields, surveys were conducted in the 7 main banana production departments. A total of 260 leaf fragments presenting viral symptoms were collected and analyzed. From the 65 leaf fragments used for biological indexing, 14 showed symptoms related toCucumber mosaic virus(CMV). CMV presence was confirmed by double-antibody sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (DAS-ELISA) using CMV polyclonal antibodies. CMV strains we isolated, appeared to be highly infectious and to produce various symptoms like mosaic, chlorosis, and necrotic spots onCucumis sativus,Cucurbita pepo, andNicotiana tabacum. Satellite RNAs (SatRNAs) associated with CMV isolates were also detected using reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) with a degenerate primer pair. CMV’s coat protein as well as satRNAs was sequenced. Novel Ivorian coat proteins and satRNAs were compared to publicly available sequences. We noticed a single amino acid substitution (Serine to Leucine) at position 73 of the novel coat protein that allowed us to divide Ivorian CMV strains into two groups. Molecular and phylogenetic analysis suggested that Ivorian strains might be classified into CMV Subgroup IA. We also discovered that satellite RNA associated with Ivorian CMVs form a separate clade.
Effects of seasonality, fertilization and species on the chlorophyllafluorescence as related with photosynthesis and leguminous tree growth during Amazonian forest restoration
Authors: Jaquetti Roberto Kirmayr , de Carvalho Gonçalves José Francisco , Nascimento Henrique Eduardo Mendonça , da Costa Karen Cristina Pires , Maia Jair Max Fortunato , Schimpl Flávia Camila
Published: November 2020

The ability of species to adjust their light energy uptake is determined during plant establishment and development. Changes in resource availability may impact energy fluxes and photosynthesis. General and specific variations in chlorophyllafluorescence under high vs. low water and nutrient conditions have been studied. N2-fixing leguminous trees, which are commonly used in tropical forest restoration, seem to be very well adapted to degraded ecosystems. To understand the effects of biological nitrogen fixation on Chlafluorescence variables, three of the six Fabaceae species selected for this study were N2-fixing species. Additionally, the correlation among Chlafluorescence and growth, photosynthesis and nutrient levels was evaluated. A 24-month forest restoration experiment was established, and data on dark-adapted Chlafluorescence, photosynthesis, diameter growth and foliar nutrients were collected. Multivariate analysis was performed to detect the effects of seasonality and fertilization. Under high water- and nutrient-availability conditions, plants exhibited enhanced performance index values that were correlated with electron transport fluxes. Under drought and nutrient-poor conditions, most species exhibited increased energy dissipation as a method of photoprotection. Great interspecific variation was found; therefore, species-specific responses to the test conditions should be considered in future studies. N2-fixing species showed increased performance index and maximum fluorescence values, indicating their ability to colonize high-light environments. Negative correlations were found between photosynthesis and trapped fluxes and between diameter growth and initial fluorescence. Electron transport fluxes were positively correlated with growth. Given the different responses identified among species, Chlafluorescence is considered a cost-effective technique to screen for seasonality, nutrient and N2-fixing species effects and should be considered for use during forest restoration. Finally, including N2-fixing species and multiple fertilization treatments in related studies may greatly facilitate the restoration of biogeochemical cycles in the tropics.
Lipid binding by N-terminal motif mediates plasma membrane localization ofBordetellaeffector protein BteA
Authors: Malcova Ivana , Bumba Ladislav , Uljanic Filip , Kuzmenko Darya , Nedomova Jana , Kamanova Jana
Published: November 2020

The classicalBordetellaspecies,B. pertussisandB. bronchiseptica, employ a type III secretion system (T3SS) to inject a 69-kDa BteA effector into the host cells. Upon injection, BteA localizes to the cytosolic leaflet of lipid rafts via its N-terminal lipid raft targeting (LRT) domain and induces cell death. The plasma membrane targeting and cytotoxicity mechanisms of BteA are poorly understood. Using protein-lipid overlay assay and surface plasmon resonance, we showed here that the recombinant LRT domain, which adopts a four-helix bundle topology of membrane localization domains, specifically binds negatively charged membrane phospholipids. The binding affinity for phosphatidylinositol 4,5-bisphosphate (PIP2)-containing liposomes with Kd ~450 nM was higher than for those enriched in phosphatidylserine (Kd ~1.2 μM) while both phospholipids were required for plasma membrane targeting in yeast cells. The membrane association of LRT further depended on its electrostatic and hydrophobic interactions and involved a loop L1-located leucine residue. Importantly, charge-reversal substitutions within the L1 region disrupted plasma membrane localization of BteA effector without hampering its cytotoxic activity duringB. bronchisepticainfection of HeLa cells. The LRT-mediated targeting of BteA to the cytosolic leaflet of the plasma membrane of host cells is, hence, dispensable for the effector cytotoxicity.

Author summary

The respiratory pathogens of humans and other animals,Bordetella pertussisandBordetella bronchiseptica, produce a type III secretion system effector protein BteA. This effector consists of two functional domains, an N-terminal lipid raft targeting (LRT) domain, and a cytotoxic C-terminal domain, which induces non-apoptotic and caspase-1-independent host cell death. We found here that the LRT domain of BteA associates with plasma membrane by binding to negatively charged phospholipids. We further discovered that the mechanism of membrane association by LRT is reminiscent of the one used by three other diverse families of toxins: clostridial glucosyltransferase toxins, multifunctional-autoprocessing RTX toxins (MARTX), andPasteurella multocida-liketoxins. Intriguingly, we also report that plasma membrane targeting by the LRT domain does not contribute to cytotoxic activity of BteA duringB. bronchisepticainfection. Overall, our work elucidated the mechanism of plasma membrane association by LRT, and further provided the basis for future research on cellular activities of BteA and the mechanism of BteA-induced cell death.
The Development of a Novel Nanobody Therapeutic for SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Ye Gang , Gallant Joseph P. , Massey Christopher , Shi Ke , Tai Wanbo , Zheng Jian , Odle Abby E. , Vickers Molly A. , Shang Jian , Wan Yushun , Drelich Aleksandra , Kempaiah Kempaiah R. , Tat Vivian , Perlman Stanley , Du Lanying , Tseng Chien-Te , Aihara Hideki , LeBeau Aaron M. , Li Fang
Published: November 2020

Combating the COVID-19 pandemic requires potent and low-cost therapeutics. We identified a novel series of single-domain antibodies (i.e., nanobody), Nanosota-1, from a camelid nanobody phage display library. Structural data showed thatNanosota-1bound to the oft-hidden receptor-binding domain (RBD) of SARS-CoV-2 spike protein, blocking out viral receptor ACE2. The lead drug possessing an Fc tag (Nanosota-1C-Fc) bound to SARS-CoV-2 RBD with a Kdof 15.7picomolar (∼3000 times more tightly than ACE2 did) and inhibited SARS-CoV-2 infection with an ND50of 0.16microgram/milliliter (∼6000 times more potently than ACE2 did). Administered at a single dose,Nanosota-1C-Fcdemonstrated preventive and therapeutic efficacy in hamsters subjected to SARS-CoV-2 infection. Unlike conventional antibody drugs,Nanosota-1C-Fcwas produced at high yields in bacteria and had exceptional thermostability. Pharmacokinetic analysis ofNanosota-1C-Fc documented a greater than 10-dayin vivohalf-life efficacy and high tissue bioavailability.Nanosota-1C-Fcis a potentially effective and realistic solution to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Impact statement

Potent and low-costNanosota-1drugs block SARS-CoV-2 infections bothin vitroandin vivoand act both preventively and therapeutically.
The MCMV immunoevasin gp40/m152inhibits NKG2D receptor RAE-1γ by intracellular retention and cell surface masking
Authors: Lis Natalia , Hein Zeynep , Ghanwat Swapnil S. , Ramnarayan Venkat Raman , Chambers Benedict J. , Springer Sebastian
Published: November 2020

NKG2D is a crucial Natural Killer (NK) cell activating receptor, and the murine cytomegalovirus (MCMV) employs multiple immunoevasins in order to avoid NKG2D-mediated activation. One of the MCMV immunoevasins, gp40 (m152), downregulates the cell surface NKG2D ligand, RAE-1γ, thus limiting NK cell activation. This study establishes the molecular mechanism by which gp40 retains RAE-1γ in the secretory pathway. Using flow cytometry and pulse chase analysis, we demonstrate that gp40 retains RAE-1γ in the early secretory pathway, and that this effect depends on the binding of gp40 to a host protein, TMED10, a member of the p24 protein family. We also show that the TMED10-based retention mechanism can be saturated, and that gp40 has a backup mechanism as it masks RAE-1γ on the cell surface, blocking the interaction with the NKG2D receptor and thus NK cell activation.

Summary statement

MCMV immunoevasin gp40 inhibits the NKG2D-activating ligand RAE-1γ by intracellular retention that depends on the p24 member TMED10, and additionally by masking it at the cell surface.
Functional proximity mapping of RNA binding proteins uncovers a mitochondrial mRNA anchor that promotes stress recovery
Authors: Qin Wei , Myers Samuel A , Carey Dominique K. , Carr Steven A , Ting Alice Y
Published: November 2020

Proximity labeling (PL) with genetically-targeted promiscuous enzymes has emerged as a powerful tool for unbiased proteome discovery. By combining the spatiotemporal specificity of PL with methods for functional protein enrichment, it should be possible to map specific protein subclasses within distinct compartments of living cells. Here we demonstrate this capability for RNA binding proteins (RBPs), by combining peroxidase-based PL with organic-aqueous phase separation of crosslinked protein-RNA complexes (“APEX-PS”). We validated APEX-PS by mapping nuclear RBPs, then applied it to uncover the RBPomes of two unpurifiable subcompartments - the nucleolus and the outer mitochondrial membrane (OMM). At the OMM, we discovered the RBP SYNJ2BP, which retains specific nuclear-encoded mitochondrial mRNAs during translation stress, to promote their local translation and import of protein products into the mitochondrion during stress recovery. APEX-PS is a versatile tool for compartment-specific RBP discovery and expands the scope of PL tofunctionalprotein mapping.

Graphic Abstract
Crystal and solution structures reveal oligomerization of individual capsid homology domains of Drosophila Arc
Authors: Hallin Erik I. , Markússon Sigurbjörn , Böttger Lev , Torda Andrew E. , Bramham Clive R. , Kursula Petri
Published: November 2020

Synaptic plasticity is vital for brain function and memory formation. One of the key proteins in long-term synaptic plasticity and memory is the activity-regulated cytoskeleton-associated protein (Arc). Mammalian Arc forms virus-like capsid-like structures in a process requiring the N-terminal domain and contains two C-terminal lobes that are structural homologues to retroviral capsids.Drosophilahas two isoforms of Arc, dArc1 and dArc2, with low sequence similarity to mammalian Arc, but lacking the mammalian Arc N-terminal domain. Both dArc isoforms have a capsid homology domain consisting of N- and C-terminal lobes. We carried out structural characterization of the four individual dArc lobe domains. As opposed to the corresponding mammalian Arc lobe domains, which are monomeric, the dArc lobes were all oligomeric in solution, indicating a strong propensity for homophilic interactions. The N-lobe from dArc2 formed a domain-swapped dimer in the crystal structure, resulting in a novel dimer interaction that could be relevant for capsid assembly or other dArc functions. This domain-swapped structure resembles the dimeric protein C of flavivirus capsids, as well as the structure of histones dimers, domain-swapped transcription factors, and membrane-interacting BAK domains. The strong oligomerization properties of the isolated dArc lobe domains explain the ability of dArc to form capsids in the absence of any large N-terminal domain, in contrast to the mammalian protein.
Greater strength of selection and higher proportion of beneficial amino acid changing mutations in humans compared with mice and Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Zhen Ying , Huber Christian D. , Davies Robert W. , Lohmueller Kirk E.
Published: November 2020

Quantifying and comparing the amount of adaptive evolution among different species is key to understanding how evolution works. Previous studies have shown differences in adaptive evolution across species; however, their specific causes remain elusive. Here, we use improved modeling of weakly deleterious mutations and the demographic history of the outgroup species and ancestral population and estimate that at least 20% of nonsynonymous substitutions between humans and an outgroup species were fixed by positive selection. This estimate is much higher than previous estimates, which did not correct for the sizes of the outgroup species and ancestral population. Next, we jointly estimate the proportion and selection coefficient (p+ and s+, respectively) of newly arising beneficial nonsynonymous mutations in humans, mice, and Drosophila melanogaster by examining patterns of polymorphism and divergence. We develop a novel composite likelihood framework to test whether these parameters differ across species. Overall, we reject a model with the same p+ and s+ of beneficial mutations across species and estimate that humans have a higher p+s+ compared with that of D. melanogaster and mice. We show that this result cannot be caused by biased gene conversion or hypermutable CpG sites. We discuss possible biological explanations that could generate the observed differences in the amount of adaptive evolution across species.
Pooled protein tagging, cellular imaging, and in situ sequencing for monitoring drug action in real time
Authors: Reicher Andreas , Koren Anna , Kubicek Stefan
Published: November 2020

The levels and subcellular localizations of proteins regulate critical aspects of many cellular processes and can become targets of therapeutic intervention. However, high-throughput methods for the discovery of proteins that change localization either by shuttling between compartments, by binding larger complexes, or by localizing to distinct membraneless organelles are not available. Here we describe a scalable strategy to characterize effects on protein localizations and levels in response to different perturbations. We use CRISPR-Cas9-based intron tagging to generate cell pools expressing hundreds of GFP-fusion proteins from their endogenous promoters and monitor localization changes by time-lapse microscopy followed by clone identification using in situ sequencing. We show that this strategy can characterize cellular responses to drug treatment and thus identify nonclassical effects such as modulation of protein–protein interactions, condensate formation, and chemical degradation.
MAnorm2 for quantitatively comparing groups of ChIP-seq samples
Authors: Tu Shiqi , Li Mushan , Chen Haojie , Tan Fengxiang , Xu Jian , Waxman David J. , Zhang Yijing , Shao Zhen
Published: November 2020

Eukaryotic gene transcription is regulated by a large cohort of chromatin-associated proteins, and inferring their differential binding sites between cellular contexts requires a rigorous comparison of the corresponding ChIP-seq data. We present MAnorm2, a new computational tool for quantitatively comparing groups of ChIP-seq samples. MAnorm2 uses a hierarchical strategy for normalization of ChIP-seq data and assesses within-group variability of ChIP-seq signals based on an empirical Bayes framework. In this framework, MAnorm2 allows for abundant differential ChIP-seq signals between groups of samples as well as very different global within-group variability between groups. Using a number of real ChIP-seq data sets, we observed that MAnorm2 clearly outperformed existing tools for differential ChIP-seq analysis, especially when the groups of samples being compared had distinct global within-group variability.
The different development trajectory of noncognitive abilities of urban and rural children: evidence from China family panel studies
Authors: Zhao Rujing , Zhou Hao
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the temporal development of noncognitive abilities of children and the development trajectory of rural and urban children's noncognitive abilities in China.

Design/methodology/approach

Lexis diagram is used as the research framework to depict the development trajectory of rural and urban children's noncognitive abilities in China. By employing the nationally representative longitudinal survey data, China Family Panel Studies (2010–2016), the difference of rural and urban children's noncognitive abilities is disentangled into temporal, age and cohort effects.

Findings

There is a significant temporal rural–urban difference in children's noncognitive abilities, but the rural–urban gap would expand, narrow or show more complex development trends under different measurements. The results of age and cohort comparison are similar to those of temporal comparison, that is, there are divergent trajectories of rural–urban gap due to the different measurements and different ages and/or cohorts. Specifically, urban children perform better in self-esteem, but rural children always have a higher social responsibility, such a contrast between urban children's weak social responsibility under the advantageous condition and rural children's strong social responsibility in the relatively disadvantageous environment.

Originality/value

Children's noncognitive ability is not innate but is a gradually acquired characteristic through training and cultivation. The rural–urban difference of children's noncognitive abilities implies educational issues concerning educational principles in the urban environment and the educational resources' allocation in the rural society in China. Besides, as the unidimensional measurement of children's noncognitive ability is insufficient, the systematic measurement composed of multidimensional indicators utilizing cohort data or longitudinal data would be needed.
Performance Management at IRD Corporation (B)
Authors: Gupta Vishal
Published: November 2020

The Performance Management at IRD Corporation case series is designed to be an in-depth study of performance appraisal in the R&D context. The case series can be used as a platform for discussing the rationale of performance appraisal system, system design and implementation, the differences between R&D and other work contexts (manufacturing, services, etc.), and the challenges involved in R&D management. This case revolves around the Chairman of IRD Corp and his dilemmas, providing an insight to the participants into the challenges of performance management and also R&D management. The series highlights the complex dilemmas associated with managing performance and the necessity of having a new performance evaluation system.
Towards the Deming Prize - The Case of Tata Steel (A)
Authors: Laha Arnab , Dutta Goutam
Published: November 2020

In this case we describe the gradual transformation of India's largest private sector steel manufacturer Tata Steel that enabled it to win the coveted Deming Prize for quality. The case discusses how the company is able to maintain a relentless focus on meeting the customers' needs, sustain a culture for excellence in quality, build processes that empower the workers in taking decisions related to their area of work freely, instill leadership skills at all levels, and embed continuous improvement as part of their organizational culture.
Effective leadership behaviours and information culture in the higher education institution
Authors: Virkus Sirje , Salman Anmar
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to increase the understanding of the connection between effective leadership behaviours and information culture in the higher education institution (HEI).

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative case study was conducted at one department of an HEI in Estonia. This study used semi-structured interviews and document analysis for data collection. The hypothesis-generating technique applying grounded theory analysis was used for data analysis.

Findings

The information culture of the department was a multiple culture with mixed attributes from the relationship-based culture and the risk-taking culture. Six main effective leadership behaviours within the department were identified, namely, communicating well about the direction the department is going, having a clear sense of direction and strategic vision, providing resources for and adjusting workloads to stimulate scholarship and research, making academic appointments that enhance department’s reputation, allowing the opportunity to participate in key decisions and encouraging open communication and creating a positive and collegial work atmosphere. The main hypotheses that illustrate the influence of effective leadership behaviours on information culture were generated.

Practical implications

The findings of this study can inform the training of future leaders in HEIs.

Originality/value

There is a lack of research in higher education that focuses on the relationship between leadership and information culture, and this research fills this gap.
Collaborative approach to public service improvement: the Malaysian experience and lessons
Authors: Siddiquee Noore Alam , Xavier John Antony
Published: November 2020

Purpose

In 2009, Malaysia saw a unique approach to public service improvement. The National Blue Ocean Strategy (NBOS) was designed to enhance governmental performance by breaking down silos across ministries so that resources could be pooled and a leap in value of service is secured. This paper aims to examine the extent to which the NBOS has catalysed inter-agency collaboration and delivered improvements to public services.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a qualitative approach drawing on data collected through semi-structured individual interviews with key informants complemented with information from other sources. The interview evidence has been triangulated with those obtained through group discussions, personal observations and review of official records and publications.

Findings

The paper shows that despite some teething problems, the NBOS has performed commendably. It has made notable inroads in promoting cross-agency collaboration, demonstrating evidence of improved service delivery and cost savings for the government. In short, it has produced results in areas where previous reforms have performed poorly.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the limited literature on collaborative management in developing countries. The Malaysian experience suggests that leadership and commitment at the highest level, an effective governance structure, participation of key actors at various stages and a blend of top-down and bottom-up approaches to project development and management are among the critical success factors for a collaborative approach.
Who is interested in retail education? The (mis)match between the leading universities’ offerings and job demand in the UK
Authors: Pantano Eleonora , Pizzi Gabriele , Rogers Andrew
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Retail management has acquired the attention of scholars and practitioners, with many international and prestigious journals specifically relating to the topic. Also, top-tier journals in other disciplines have proposed special issues on the new advances in retailing, with emphasis on the role of new and smart technologies. On the one hand, the research in retailing seems to be prolific; on the other hand, the interest in retail education (from a research and university perspective) seems to be more limited. The purpose of this paper is to capture the (mis)match between the leading universities' offerings and job demand in the UK. In this way, the paper identifies opportunities for educators and researchers to educate future career-ready professionals in retailing and improve research in retail education.

Design/methodology/approach

The research evaluates the offer of UK retail education in terms of programmes/courses, focusing on the Russell Group universities for the academic year 2020/2021 (September starts) and the demand of certain skills and competences by the largest retailers in the UK. The study utilizes secondary data based on the courses/programmes specifically related to the retail sector and on the job opportunities through the leading UK grocery retailers.

Findings

The findings reveal the extent of the gap between the university educational offerings and the requirements from retailers.

Originality/value

To the best of authors’ knowledge, this paper is the first attempt to capture and compare multiple evidence bases related to academic curriculums and employers' requirements for specific retail competencies.
Social participation and self-reported health in China: evidence from Chinese middle-aged and elderly adults
Authors: Xinxin MA.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

Social participation (SP) has been shown to have a favorable impact on health status, particularly among elders in developed countries. However, empirical study is scarce for China. This study explores the relation between social participation (SP) and health status among middle-aged adults and elders in China when controlled socioeconomic characteristics of individuals.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs an empirical study based on the data from a three-wave national longitudinal survey: the Chinese Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) from 2011, 2013 to 2015. It collects data from 28,895 individuals aged 45–84. It uses lagged variable method (LV) to address the reverse causality problem, and the random-effects model or fixed-effect model to address the heterogeneity problem.

Findings

The paper finds the social participation positively affect self-reported health statistically. The influence of social participation on self-reported health flows through two channels: the improved mental health effect (SP-MH-SRH channel) and the increased income effect (SP-income-SRH channel). In comparison with the SAP-income-SRH channel, the influence of the SP-MH-SRH channel l is greater.

Research limitations/implications

First, the absence of other measures of volunteering, such as hours of social participation that are not available in the employed dataset. Second, even though the LV model and FE model are used in the paper, there may remain the endogeneity problem in the results. Third, the influences of formal and informal social participation should be distinguished in the future research.

Social implications

Social participation may improve the self-reported health status. The influence of SP on health may be due to the improved mental health effect (SP-MH-SRH channel). In order to improve the mental and physical health status of middle-aged adults and elders the government should consider even more promotion of social participation.

Originality/value

First, this paper focuses on the correlation between social participation and well-being (self-reported health) of middle-aged adults and elderly in China, the previous studies on the issue for China are scarce. Second, this paper uses the lagged variable method (LV) to address the reverse causal relation problem, and the fixed-effects model or the random-effects model to address the heterogeneity problem. Third, the two channels (the improved mental health effect and the increased income effect) are firstly investigated in this study.
Measuring validity and reliability of website credibility factors in influencing user engagement questionnaire
Authors: Saiful Bahry Farrah Diana , Masrom Maslin , Masrek Mohamad Noorman
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show the importance of validity process in survey questionnaire instrument development. It is to confirm all items chosen are valid in the context of study, especially in assessing municipal website Web user behaviours. The quality of measurement also can be assured.

Design/methodology/approach

Several methods used to assess validity of the survey instrument in this study, such as face validity, content validity index (CVI) and construct validity. CVI assessment is widely used to examine each item in the survey instrument exact measures what is supposed to be measured. Prolific items used to evaluate web aesthetic, usability, navigation, content organization, interactivity and user engagement.

Findings

Several items were rephrased and simplified during face validity assessment, while three items from user engagement construct were excluded after the CVI assessment. Reliability and redundancy analysis had shown good results for each item and construct for both dependent and independent variables. None of the items in any construct need to be eliminated.

Research limitations/implications

The face validity, content validity and construct validity assessments are sufficient to assure the consistency of the conceptual framework, the content of items and overall measurement approach reflecting the setting or context of study which are web users.

Practical implications

The validated survey instrument provides practical guidelines for government municipal website owners on how to stimulate website user to keep engaged on the government municipal website. Identified website content that acts as credibility cues can be as object attention when planning the strategy of Web content management. Through proper design and attracting touch up, the credibility cues can attract website user and force the user to engage deeper on the government municipal website content, believe it as the main source of information and recognize it as authoritative organization.

Originality/value

The measurement model of this study that consists of formative construct of surface credibility, and user engagement is proposed to be tested in a different context of this study.
Comparative study on equivalent models calculating magnetic force between permanent magnets
Authors: Zhang Yuyang , Leng Yonggang , Zhang Hao , Su Xukun , Sun Shuailing , Chen Xiaoyu , Xu Junjie
Published: November 2020

Purpose

An appropriate equivalent model is the key to the effective analysis of the system and structure in which permanent magnet takes part. At present, there are several equivalent models for calculating the interacting magnetic force between permanent magnets including magnetizing current, magnetic charge and magnetic dipole–dipole model. How to choose the most appropriate and efficient model still needs further discussion.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper chooses cuboid, cylindrical and spherical permanent magnets as calculating objects to investigate the detailed calculation procedures based on three equivalent models, magnetizing current, magnetic charge and magnetic dipole–dipole model. By comparing the accuracies of those models with experiment measurement, the applicability of three equivalent models for describing permanent magnets with different shapes is analyzed.

Findings

Similar calculation accuracies of the equivalent magnetizing current model and magnetic charge model are verified by comparison between simulation and experiment results. However, the magnetic dipole–dipole model can only accurately calculate for spherical magnet instead of other nonellipsoid magnets, because dipole model cannot describe the specific characteristics of magnet's shape, only sphere can be treated as the topological form of a dipole, namely a filled dot.

Originality/value

This work provides reference basis for choosing a proper model to calculate magnetic force in the design of electromechanical structures with permanent magnets. The applicability of different equivalent models describing permanent magnets with different shapes is discussed and the equivalence between the models is also analyzed.
Application for online conferences and meetings
Authors: Rifai Mochammad , Fitrianah Devi
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This study aims to support an institution to hold an online meeting or conference in the middle of social distancing, which is currently in effect.

Design/methodology/approach

In developing this application, rapid application design methodology is used. The implementation used HTML5 and PHP for the Web and MySQL for the database and Agora Software Development Kit. To evaluate the application, the authors had a black box testing method.

Findings

This application will support the participant registration process, validation, payment, providing a link to the workshop to the participant, token and room name to be able to join an online meeting or conference up to the process of giving a digital attendance certificate to participants or members participating in it.

Originality/value

An integrated Web application provides full services, starting from the registration process, payment, the conference meeting itself and certificate of attendance.
Managing carbon footprint for a sustainable supply chain: a systematic literature review
Authors: Ghosh Piya , Jha Ajay , Sharma RRK
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The carbon emissions due to industrial production and market consumption activities are the major contributors to global warming. With the signing of UN Paris Accord 2016 on climate change, the world's major countries are devising measures to combat climate change and attain a sustainable, low-carbon future. Globalization demands companies not only to adopt greener manufacturing practices internally for reduced carbon footprint (CFP) but beyond its boundaries (i.e. its supply chain). This study aims to discuss the relationship between CFP and sustainable supply chain, as evident in the current literature and industry practices. It provides a total comprehension of past, present and future headings in the CFP area and its contribution to a sustainable supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review and analysis have been undertaken in supply chain sustainability and CFP. A bibliometric approach is adopted for this investigation, and one of the biggest computerized databases, “Scopus,” has been picked. In total, 37 articles have been zeroed in after a careful and watchful screening of firmly related topics.

Findings

Most researchers gave predominance to environmental impact among the three pillars of sustainability (economy, society and the environment) for a sustainable supply chain environment. Only a few researchers were motivated to cover social development and social responsibility aspects. This review highlights how managing a CFP is one of the significant attributes of sustainable development. Existing literature in the field of CFP and sustainability have been written on actual industry cases. Food, electricity and energy are some significant industries where supply chain sustainability successfully reduces carbon emission.

Originality/value

The theory-building strategy with recommendations on the conceptualization of a sustainable supply chain is limited in the literature. This study gives broad ideas on how organizations modified and redeveloped different tools and technologies to make their supply chain more sustainable. The strategic role of different carbon policies, environmental rules and regulations in the domain of CFP is also recognized in this work. This study highlights the biases of most of the researches toward applications than policy interventions. This study discusses the theoretical perspective about how CFP affects supply chain management and helps organizations and researchers develop a new set of approaches in handling CFP and other sustainability aspects.
Decolourisation of reactive dyes with laccase-mediator system
Authors: Rana Bharti , Chakraborty J.N.
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to study the ability of laccase for decolourisation of reactive dyes in presence and absence of natural and synthetic mediators.

Design/methodology/approach

Box–Behnken design was used to optimize the parameters to achieve optimum response value. Preliminary screening using several mediators was performed to evaluate extent of decolourisation for the purpose followed by selection of effective mediators only.

Findings

Laccase performs in acidic pH; increase in temperature enhances its activity. Rate of decolourisation depends on laccase and dye concentration, temperature, pH and treatment time. Out of five mediators studied, HBT, BT and VA showed promising results.

Research limitations/implications

Study on decolourisation was conducted for individual dyes. In some cases, dyes are applied in combination which requires further study for authentication of data.

Practical implications

Decolourisation with laccase has been found to be a promising technology in waste water treatment. However, selection of mediator remains a crucial factor.

Social implications

Reactive dyes are self-hydrolysed over time under natural conditions and extent of decolourisation depends on concentration of dye discharged and time spent. If not decolourised quickly, it imposes restriction on use of river water for irrigation.

Originality/value

In this work, activity of various natural and synthetic mediators alongwith laccase was studied to achieve maximum decolourisation which was not studied earlier.
Study on fabric compression under seam vis a vis quantitative measurement of seam boldness and thread consumption for lockstitch 301
Authors: Chavhan Md Vaseem , Naidu Mandapati Ramesh
Published: November 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to develop at sewing thread during the seam formation may lead to the compression of fabric under seam. In the present study, the model has been proposed to predict the seam compression and calculation of seam boldness, as well as thread consumption by considering seam compression.

Design/methodology/approach

The effect of sewing parameters on the fabric compression at the seam (Cf) for fabrics of varying bulk density was studied by the Taguchi method and also the multilinear regression equation is obtained to predict seam compression by considering these parameters. The framework has been set as per the single view metrology approach to measuring structural seam boldness (Bs). One of the basic geometrical models (Ghosh and Chavhan, 2014) for the prediction of thread consumption at lock stitch has been modified by considering fabric compression at the seam (Cf).

Findings

The multilinear regression model has been proposed which can predict the compression under seam using easily measurable fabric parameters and stitch density. The seam boldness is successfully calculated quantitatively using the proposed formula with a good correlation with the seam boldness rated subjectively. The thread consumption estimation from the proposed approach was found to be more accurate.

Originality/value

The compression under seam is found out using easily measurable parameters; fabric thickness, fabric weight and stitch density from the proposed model. The attempt has been made to calculate seam boldness quantitatively and the new approach to find out thread consumption by considering the seam compression has been proposed.
Videography – studying ethical uncertainty in alternative entrepreneurship
Authors: Skoglund Annika , Redmalm David , Berglund Karin
Published: November 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop videographic methods for the study of alternative entrepreneurship, with a theoretical focus on “ethical uncertainties”, exemplified in this paper by the exploration of evolving actions and unpredictable outcomes in a specific case, the Hungarian company Prezi.

Design/methodology/approach

By first situating Prezi’s alternative entrepreneurship in the turbulent Hungarian political context and situation for the Roma population, this study presents how the methodological foundations of organizational videography have affirmed aesthetic immersion, which is of particular use for the study of ethical uncertainty.

Findings

Following a methodological exploration of the specific research design and ethnographic reflections on three ways in which ethical uncertainties arise, this study discusses the videographic possibilities to study something as elusive as ethical uncertainty and its link to alternative futures.

Originality/value

The political context in Hungary poses many challenges for organizations that attempt to “do good” and create alternative futures. This paper explains how this political context permeates Prezi’s entrepreneurship and research thereof, by highlighting “ethical uncertainty”. The combined contribution (paper and videography) invites the reader to think differently about the authority of research, become a viewer and reflect on their own experiences of ethical uncertainty in alternative entrepreneurship.
Is the interest rate setting behaviour of the Bank of Ghana constrained by high debt levels?
Authors: Iddrisu Abdul‐Aziz , Alagidede Imhotep Paul
Published: November 2020

While assertions of debt constraints on monetary policy have been documented in the literature, empirical investigation into this phenomenon remains egregiously limited, with the only study using the Generalized Method of Moments that fails to provide confidence intervals for the threshold estimate. We examine whether or not high debt levels constrain the interest rate setting behaviour of the Bank of Ghana, with the aid of sample splitting and a threshold estimation technique that overcomes the weaknesses of previous studies. We find that monetary policy response to inflation gap in the high debt regime (above the debt to gross domestic product [GDP] threshold of 35.1%) is woefully disproportionate, a key indication of debt constraint and inflation accommodation by a central bank that is supposed to be targeting inflation. Important policy recommendations are proffered.
Daily Patterns of Emotional Functioning on Drinking and Nondrinking Days
Authors: De Leon Ardhys N. , Dvorak Robert D. , Kramer Matthew P. , Peterson Roselyn , Pinto Daniel A. , Leary Angelina V. , Magri Tatiana D.
Published: November 2020

Background

Alcohol misuse continues to be a significant public health problem. Understanding the factors that may contribute to the harmful progression in drinking is an important aspect of public health. Previous research has shown that affect regulation is associated with problematic alcohol use. Additionally, emotion instability has been found as a predictor of alcohol‐related problems and may be linked to reinforcement mechanisms.

Methods

The current study examined positive mood, negative mood, and mood instability in real time across drinking and nondrinking days utilizing ecological momentary assessment (EMA). Current drinkers (n = 74) were recruited for a 21‐day EMA study. Participants completed up to 10 random assessments of positive mood, negative mood, and alcohol use per day. Mood instability was assessed as the squared difference in current mood from mood in the previous assessment. Data were analyzed using piecewise multilevel regression to examine mood trajectories across drinking and nondrinking days.

Results

Positive emotion across the day was higher on drinking days than nondrinking days and continued to increase after drinking initiation. In contrast, negative emotion across the day was lower on drinking days than nondrinking days and continued to decrease after drinking initiation. Emotional functioning was stable across the day on nondrinking days. However, on drinking days there was a steady increase in emotional instability leading up to drinking initiation, followed by a rapid stabilization after initiation.

Conclusions

This study highlights the potentially reinforcing impact of alcohol via emotional stability. Overall, these findings highlight the importance of mood dynamics when examining the reinforcing effects of alcohol consumption.
Living up to the expectations: The effect of design thinking on project success
Authors: Roth Kristiana , Globocnik Dietfried , Rau Christiane , Neyer Anne‐Katrin
Published: November 2020

Both academics and practitioners have paid increased attention to design thinking over the past years. Yet, there is still little empirical evidence about its effectiveness for achieving success in innovation projects. Based on the existing design thinking literature, we conceptualize the common themes underlying design thinking to describe the application level of design thinking practices in projects. Then, we elaborate on the performance relevance of design thinking. Besides a direct impact on project performance, we draw on organizational behaviour literature and argue psychological empowerment to be a core mechanism through which design thinking affects project performance. We test our hypotheses with 160 students participating in 62 innovation projects for companies. We find the effect of the application level of design thinking practices on project performance to be fully mediated by psychological empowerment. Our study contributes to the literature by providing empirical support for the performance relevance of design thinking and the underlying mechanism. Furthermore, we shift the perspective on design thinking from being an approach to solve complex or wicked problems to an approach facilitating motivation and empowerment.
School Cultural Socialization and Academic Performance: Examining Ethnic‐Racial Identity Development as a Mediator Among African American Adolescents
Authors: Del Toro Juan , Wang Ming‐Te
Published: November 2020

Historic racial disparities in the United States have created an urgent need for evidence‐based strategies promoting African American students’ academic performance via school‐based ethnic‐racial socialization and identity development. However, the temporal order among socialization, identity, and academic performance remains unclear in extant literature. This longitudinal study examined whether school cultural socialization predicted 961 African American adolescents’ grade point averages through their ethnic‐racial identities (49.6% males; Mage = 13.60; 91.9% qualified for free lunch). Results revealed that youth who perceived more school cultural socialization had better grades 1 and 2 years later. In addition, identity commitment (but not exploration) fully mediated these relations. Implications for how educators can help adolescents of color succeed in schools are discussed.