bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
AT-hook DNA-binding motif-containing protein one knockdown downregulates EWS-FLI1 transcriptional activity in Ewing’s sarcoma cells
Authors: Kitagawa Takao , Kobayashi Daiki , Baron Byron , Okita Hajime , Miyamoto Tatsuo , Takai Rie , Paudel Durga , Ohta Tohru , Asaoka Yoichi , Tokunaga Masayuki , Nakagawa Koji , Furutani-Seiki Makoto , Araki Norie , Kuramitsu Yasuhiro , Kobayashi Masanobu
Published: May 2022

Ewing’s sarcoma is the second most common bone malignancy in children or young adults and is caused by an oncogenic transcription factor by a chromosomal translocation between the EWSR1 gene and the ETS transcription factor family. However, the transcriptional mechanism of EWS-ETS fusion proteins is still unclear. To identify the transcriptional complexes of EWS-ETS fusion transcription factors, we applied a proximal labeling system called BioID in Ewing’s sarcoma cells. We identified AHDC1 as a proximal protein of EWS-ETS fusion proteins. AHDC1 knockdown showed a reduced cell growth and transcriptional activity of EWS-FLI1. AHDC1 knockdown also reduced BRD4 and BRG1 protein levels, both known as interacting proteins of EWS-FLI1. In addition, AHDC1 co-localized with BRD4. Our results suggest that AHDC1 supports cell growth through EWS-FLI1.
In-vivo detection of cyclic-di-AMP in Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Mukkayyan Nagaraja , Poon Raymond , Sander Philipp N. , Lai Li-Yin , Zubair-Nizami Zahra , Hammond Ming C. , Chatterjee Som S.
Published: May 2022

Cyclic-di-AMP (CDA) is a signaling molecule that controls various cellular functions including antibiotic tolerance and osmoregulation in Staphylococcus aureus. In this study, we developed a novel biosensor (bsuO P6-4) for in-vivo detection of CDA in S. aureus. Our study showed that bsuO P6-4 could detect a wide concentration range of CDA in both laboratory and clinical strains making it suitable for use in both basic and clinical research applications.
High-fidelity optical diffraction tomography of live organisms using non-toxic tunable refractive index media
Authors: Lee Dohyeon , Lee Moosung , Kwak Haechan , Kim Youngseo , Shim Jaehyu , Jung Jik Han , Park Wei-Sun , Park Ji-Ho , Lee Sumin , Park Yongkeun
Published: May 2022

Optical diffraction tomography (ODT) enables the three-dimensional (3D) refractive index (RI) reconstruction. However, when the RI difference between a sample and a medium increases, effects of light scattering become significant, preventing the acquisition of high-quality and accurate RI reconstructions. Herein, we present a method for high-fidelity ODT by introducing non-toxic RI matching media. Optimally reducing the RI contrast enhances the fidelity and accuracy of 3D RI reconstruction, enabling visualization of the morphology and intra-organization of live biological samples without producing toxic effects. We validate our method using various biological organisms, includingC. albicansandC. elegans.

Abstract Figure
Acquisition of the Spindle Assembly Checkpoint and its modulation by cell fate and cell size in a chordate embryo
Authors: Roca Marianne , Besnardeau Lydia , Christians Elisabeth , McDougall Alex , Chenevert Janet , Castagnetti Stefania
Published: May 2022

The spindle assembly checkpoint (SAC) is a surveillance system which preserves genome integrity by delaying anaphase onset until all chromosomes are correctly attached to spindle microtubules. Recruitment of SAC proteins to unattached kinetochores generates an inhibitory signal that prolongs mitotic duration. Chordate embryos are atypical in that spindle defects do not delay mitotic progression during early development, implying that either the SAC is inactive or the cell-cycle target machinery unresponsive. Here we show that in embryos of the chordate Phallusia mammillata the SAC delays mitotic progression from the 8th cleavage divisions. Unattached kinetochores are not recognized by the SAC machinery until the 7th cell cycle when the SAC is acquired. Following acquisition, SAC strength, manifest as the degree of mitotic lengthening induced by spindle perturbations, is specific to different cell types and is modulated by cell size showing similarity to SAC control in early Caenorhabditis elegans embryos. We conclude that SAC acquisition is a process likely specific to chordate embryos, while modulation of SAC efficiency in SAC proficient stages depends on cell fate and cell size similarly to non-chordate embryos.
Modification of the Langendorff system of the isolated beating heart for experimental radiotherapy at a synchrotron: 4000 Gy in a heart beat
Authors: Schültke Elisabeth , Lerch Michael , Kirschstein Timo , Lange Falko , Porath Katrin , Fiedler Stefan , Davis Jeremy , Paino Jason , Engels Elette , Barnes Micah , Klein Mitzi , Hall Christopher , Häusermann Daniel , Hildebrandt Guido
Published: May 2022

Microbeam radiotherapy could help to cure malignant tumours which are currently still considered therapy-resistant. With an irradiation target in the thoracic cavity, the heart would be one of the most important organs at risk. To assess the acute adverse effects of microbeam irradiation in the heart, a powerful ex vivo tool was created by combining the Langendorff model of the isolated beating mammalian heart with X-Tream dosimetry. In a first pilot experiment conducted at the Biomedical and Imaging Beamline of the Australian Synchrotron, the system was tested at a microbeam peak dose approximately ten times higher than the anticipated future microbeam irradiation treatment doses. The entire heart was irradiated with a dose of 4000 Gy at a dose rate of >6000 Gy s−1, using an array of 50 µm-wide microbeams spaced at a centre-to-centre distance of 400 µm. Although temporary arrhythmias were seen, they reverted spontaneously to a stable rhythm and no cardiac arrest occurred. This amazing preservation of cardiac function is promising for future therapeutic approaches.
Protonation states of hen egg-white lysozyme observed using D/H contrast neutron crystallography
Authors: Chatake Toshiyuki , Tanaka Ichiro , Kusaka Katsuhiro , Fujiwara Satoru
Published: May 2022

Hen egg-white lysozyme (HEWL) is an enzymatic protein with two acidic amino acids, Glu35 and Asp52, in its active site. Glu35 acts as a proton donor to the substrate and Asp52 interacts with the positively charged substrate, suggesting different protonation states of these residues. However, neutron crystallographic studies thus far have not provided a consistent picture of the protonation states of these residues. Only one study succeeded in observing the active protonation states of Glu35 and Asp52 in the triclinic crystal system. However, their active states in the most widely studied tetragonal crystal system are still unknown. The application of the D/H contrast technique in neutron crystallography improves the ability to locate exchangeable D/H atoms in proteins. In the present study, D2O and H2O solvent crystals were prepared. Each neutron data set was collected for only five days by combining a time-of-flight diffractometer (iBIX) and the spallation neutron source at the Japan Proton Accelerator Research Complex. The D/H contrast map provided better visualization of the D/H atoms in HEWL than the conventional neutron scattering length density map. The neutron D/H contrast map demonstrated the alternative protonation of the OE1 and OE2 atoms in the carboxyl group of Glu35. This alternative protonation occurs in the absence of a substrate, where high selectivity of the protonation site does not occur. In this case, only the OE1—HE1 bond attacks the substrate in an equilibrium between OE1—HE1 and OE2—HE2, or the H+ ion of the OE2—HE2 bond moves to the OE1 atom just before or after substrate binding to initiate the catalytic reaction. In contrast, the carboxyl group of Asp52 is not protonated. Protonation of the carboxyl group was not observed for other Asp and Glu residues. These results are consistent with results from NMR spectroscopy and explain the protonation states at the active site in the apo form of HEWL.
The moderating role of board diversity in the nexus between the quality of financial disclosure and dividends in Jordanian-listed banks
Authors: Karajeh Ahmad Ibrahim
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study covers all banks listed on the Amman Stock Exchange. It used (1) dividend-paying status, dividend changes and dividend persistence to measure dividend quality, (2) a checklist instrument consisting of 40 items to measure financial disclosure quality, (3) nationality and (4) the percentage of females and males on the board of directors to measure board diversity. Hierarchical regression analysis was employed to investigate the influence of the board diversity on the relationship between financial disclosure quality and dividend quality.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the relationship between financial disclosure quality and dividend quality among Jordanian-listed banks. Moreover, it examines the moderating effect of board diversity on the relationship between financial disclosure quality and dividend quality.

Findings

The results in this work imply that banks with high financial disclosure quality have high-quality dividends. Furthermore, nationality and females on the board of directors play a main role as moderators that influence managers' motivations toward the quality of financial disclosure practices and bank dividends. This paper shows that the boards in Jordanian banks have not changed dividend policies and tend to follow a long-term fixed strategy for paying earnings.

Originality/value

Because of the limited number of practical research on the nexus between financial disclosure quality and dividends quality, this study fills a gap in the literature by examining the relationship between them. In addition, a lack of research exists on the effects of board diversity on the nexus of financial disclosure quality and dividends quality. Therefore, this study makes an original contribution to the literature by using nationality and females and males on the board of directors as moderating variables to investigate the effects of board diversity on the relationship between financial disclosure quality and dividend quality among Jordanian banks.
Political regimes and its influence on the diversity–performance relationship in Malaysia
Authors: Cheong Calvin W.H.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the gender and ethnic diversity–performance relationship in Malaysia from two angles: (1) the impact of political regimes; and (2) a possible nonlinear relationship – at the boardroom and employee level.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a sample of firms listed in Bursa Malaysia during a sample period that spans two political regimes. Two-stage least squares controlling for firm-specific effects, corporate governance and lagged variables to account for endogeneity issues is used to test the relationship.

Findings

Findings show that the political alignment of the ruling government affects the significance of the gender/ethnic diversity–performance relationship. The relationship between board gender/ethnic diversity and firm performance is curvilinear while the relationship between employee gender/ethnic diversity is linear and positive.

Research limitations/implications

First, promoting gender/ethnic diversity not only requires strong policy but also political will to lead by example. Political regimes that provide lip-service without effective implementation threaten to derail any efforts in furthering the diversity agenda. Second, the presumption of a linear diversity–performance relationship is fallacious. Further studies, especially in pluralistic societies, must not discount the subtleties of intergroup conflicts. Third, in light of allegations of prejudicial hiring policies, Malaysian firms should embrace diversity, not only in the boardroom, but also among its workforce as employee diversity improves firm performance.

Originality/value

Prior studies on gender/ethnic diversity in Malaysia have returned mixed results but thus far, there has been no satisfactory explanation for this phenomenon. This study attributes it to lack of political will and cultural subgroup conflicts – two pertinent issues that were never considered in the literature. Prior studies have also exclusively focused on boardroom diversity. This study goes further by examining employee diversity – particularly important since most empowerment and diversity initiatives are targeted at lower level employees. This study is also the first to provide an objective benchmark for gender diversity (30–35% female directors) and ethnic diversity (less than 40% from one ethnicity) to achieve optimal performance.
Evaluating performance of an untargeted urban food security scheme in India
Authors: Nagarajan Magesh , Selvaraj Patturaja
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the efficiency of the relative performances of Mother’s canteen across the regions of Tamil Nadu and find out the determinants of inefficiencies in the scheme.

Design/methodology/approach

An untargeted food security scheme called Amma (Mother's) canteen was started in Tamil Nadu, India, with an aim to provide the urban poor with hygienic and healthy food at an affordable price. Along with secondary data, interviews were conducted to understand the operational details of Mother's canteen. Data envelopment analysis (DEA) was used to find the relative efficiency of the scheme operated by nine corporations.

Findings

Based on the daily expenditure, number of meals served and revenue, seven of nine corporations were found to be inefficient. Further, sensitivity analyses found that among six procurement variables, procurement (quantity and price) of black gram and cooking oil were determinants of inefficiency.

Research limitations/implications

As an untargeted scheme, the cost of delivering service-based evaluation was used for performance evaluation. Policymakers could use centralized procurement instead of open market procurement at the corporation level and standardized ingredients' usage (quantity) to further reduce the cost of the food security scheme.

Practical implications

The proposed DEA model may be used by policymakers to empirically evaluate the food security scheme's delivery effectiveness across various corporations in a region. Inefficient branches are identified here with empirical support for further performance improvement changes.

Originality/value

There are limited number of studies evaluating untargeted schemes. This paper presents the challenges of evaluating an untargeted scheme which allows self-selection of beneficiaries. The outcome of this study will help in identifying inefficient corporations, and further, improve the performance and cost of delivering untargeted food security scheme.
A semi-analytical benchmark for the Stefan problem in arbitrary dimension – assessing accuracy of enthalpy-based methods
Authors: Malík Jiří , Souček Ondřej
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a semi-analytical benchmarking framework for enthalpy-based methods used in problems involving phase change with latent heat. The benchmark is based on a class of semi-analytical solutions of spatially symmetric Stefan problems in an arbitrary spatial dimension. Via a public repository this study provides a finite element numerical code based on the FEniCS computational platform, which can be used to test and compare any method of choice with the (semi-)analytical solutions. As a particular demonstration, this paper uses the benchmark to test several standard temperature-based implementations of the enthalpy method and assesses their accuracy and stability with respect to the discretization parameters.

Design/methodology/approach

The class of spatially symmetric semi-analytical self-similar solutions to the Stefan problem is found for an arbitrary spatial dimension, connecting some of the known results in a unified manner, while providing the solutions’ existence and uniqueness. For two chosen standard semi-implicit temperature-based enthalpy methods, the numerical error assessment of the implementations is carried out in the finite element formulation of the problem. This paper compares the numerical approximations to the semi-analytical solutions and analyzes the influence of discretization parameters, as well as their interdependence. This study also compares accuracy of these methods with other traditional approach based on time-explicit treatment of the effective heat capacity with and without iterative correction.

Findings

This study shows that the quantitative comparison between the semi-analytical and numerical solutions of the symmetric Stefan problems can serve as a robust tool for identifying the optimal values of discretization parameters, both in terms of accuracy and stability. Moreover, this study concludes that, from the performance point of view, both of the semi-implicit implementations studied are equivalent, for optimal choice of discretization parameters, they outperform the effective heat capacity method with iterative correction in terms of accuracy, but, by contrast, they lose stability for subcritical thickness of the mushy region.

Practical implications

The proposed benchmark provides a versatile, accessible test bed for computational methods approximating multidimensional phase change problems. The supplemented numerical code can be directly used to test any method of choice against the semi-analytical solutions.

Originality/value

While the solutions of the symmetric Stefan problems for individual spatial dimensions can be found scattered across the literature, the unifying perspective on their derivation presented here has, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, been missing. The unified formulation in a general dimension can be used for the systematic construction of well-posed, reliable and genuinely multidimensional benchmark experiments.
Impact of export diversification on economic growth: a system GMM approach
Authors: Markakkaran Swathi , Sridharan Perumal
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to empirically analyze the impact of export diversification on gross domestic product (GDP) per capita growth.

Design/methodology/approach

Using system generalized method of moments (GMM), a nonlinear model in a dynamic panel data growth framework for 101 countries between 1995 and 2019 was estimated.

Findings

Results evidenced that export concentration, measured by the Herfindahl–Hirschman Index (HHI), is negatively associated with GDP per capita growth after controlling for the effects of other explanatory variables. Further, the squared term of HHI used in the model to measure the nonlinear relationship between export concentration and economic growth indicated that the low-income and lower-middle-income countries benefited from export diversification. At the same time, high-income and upper-middle-income countries perform well with their export specialization. The results of the robustness check validate the findings of nonlinear estimation.

Research limitations/implications

The findings recommend that low-income and lower-middle-income countries diversify their export basket to improve economic growth by generating stable export earnings. Similarly, high-income and upper-middle-income countries should focus on measures to close the product lines which no longer belong to their factor endowments and rebalance their export basket.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature by using the system GMM method, which is most appropriate for a dynamic panel data growth framework with up-to-date data. Further, this study segregates a large panel into 43 concentrated and 58 diversified countries to test the robustness of the empirical results.
A green supply chain taxonomy in healthcare: critical factors for a proactive approach
Authors: Bentahar Omar , Benzidia Smaïl , Bourlakis Michael
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The aim of this study is to identify the critical factors of green supply chain (GSC) and to adapt these factors to the taxonomy of green practices in healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative multiple-case study approach was followed based on 60 interviews with nine French hospitals. An intra-case and a cross-case analysis were implemented.

Findings

The findings provide a taxonomy of healthcare GSC and show that regulation, cost reduction, top management commitment, employee training, information technology and measures of environmental performance are critical factors for GSC implementation. The study also underlines a few emergent critical factors including the purchasing group, environmental champion, building construction, combining safety and green approaches.

Research limitations/implications

This study was conducted in France following a qualitative methodological approach. Future research can consider other national and cross-national investigations and other quantitative or mixed methods approaches.

Practical implications

The research provides managers and policy makers numerous invaluable suggestions for the implementation of GSC practices in healthcare facilities. To accelerate GSC implementation, managers can invest in the construction of new buildings, in information technology, and in the automation of flows.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first paper identifying the critical factors of GSC implementation in the healthcare sector. It is also the first attempt to provide a taxonomy of hospitals according to their green approaches (reactive, receptive, and proactive).
Measuring corporate social responsibility: an evaluation of a new sustainable development goals index for Fortune 500 companies
Authors: Lee Dasom , Hess David J.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore, develop, and evaluate a new sustainable development goals (SDG) index that quantifies corporate social responsibility (CSR). By providing a granular perspective with clear justification for methods, this index is more applicable to academic research in comparison with the CSR indices published by private companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Focusing on the Fortune 500 companies in 2017, this study uses data from Bloomberg, ASSET4, and the Carbon Disclosure Project. A z-score was calculated for each variable, which was then aggregated according to the SDG indicator list to calculate each SDG score. Various robust analyses were conducted.

Findings

The SDG index shows that companies tend to score worse on environment-related goals compared with social goals. Furthermore, for each SDG, there are differences across industrial sectors, a finding that is enabled by the more granular approach of this index. Additionally, the leaders and laggards are identified for each of the SDGs.

Originality/value

This study identifies the methodological weaknesses of the existing CSR indices and introduces and evaluates an alternative index based on the SDGs. This alterative index provides methodological clarity and granularity of data, which were lacking in previously established indices.
Evolution of trust in hawala networks – business relationships analysis from inception to maturity
Authors: Sharif Khurram , Faisal Mohd. Nishat , Kassim Norizan , Zain Mohamed
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Trust within hawala networks (HN) (a type of deeply embedded informal value transfer network) has been associated with minimal bureaucracy, relationship versatility and low operational costs. In the absence of formal governance structures, HN business relationships largely depend on trust as a control mechanism that brings operational efficiency and transactional effectiveness. However, a basic and a static view of HN business trust has been reported. This paper aims to track the progress and development of trust within HN. More specifically, this paper charts HN relationship trust transformation from inception to maturity. Social exchange theory (SET) and Dwyer et al. (1987) topology of formal business relationship development were used as conceptual frameworks to study development of trust within HN.

Design/methodology/approach

Twenty-five in-depth interviews were conducted with HN members in the South Asia region. Chain referral sampling was used to contact and recruit suitable respondents within the semiscattered HN. The data were collected from practicing and retired HN members from Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan. The data were analyzed using keyword categorization and further substantiated, and validated, by NVivo analysis.

Findings

Four types of trust (i.e. calculative, verifiable, reciprocal and earned) were identified in HN relationships. It was revealed that trust progressed in a stepwise fashion from calculative trust (basic trust form) to earned trust (ultimate trust form). SET explained the progression of trust in terms of key drivers of different trust types at various stages of HN exchanges and relationships. In addition, it was observed that HN trust development followed Dwyer et al. (1987) topology of business relationship development.

Originality/value

This study extended the oversimplistic treatment of trust within HN by looking into its different types and its transformation over time. More specifically, this research provided an insight into how various types of trust were used within deeply embedded informal business networks to maintain and nurture business exchanges.
Depression and consumption habits: a cross-cultural study
Authors: Alcoforado Daniela Gomes , Melo Francisco Vicente Sales , Alcoforado Renata Gomes
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the interplay between consumption and depression through a cross-cultural study conducted in Brazil and Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collection was conducted through an online survey. Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) was used to assess depression levels from a sample of 1,627 respondents (759 Germans and 868 Brazilians). Descriptive statistics, multiple linear regression and Mann–Whitney U tests were applied.

Findings

Cultural characteristics are relevant in the consumption-depression interplay. The authors identified marketplace resources and stressors consisting of products categories that influence the depression level of the depressed consumer. Additionally, individuals with some level of depression presented different consumption habits than those without. A table summarizing the findings is presented at the end of the paper.

Research limitations/implications

Work limitations refer to the consumption categories analyzed and the large share of students in the sample.

Practical implications

Marketplace measures have an active role in mitigating or increasing depression levels. Thus, consumption can also be used as a transformative tool to benefit the lives of depressive individuals. Some suggestions are presented.

Social implications

This study contributes to the discussion that consumption impacts the daily lives of people with depression and provides recommendations on how to adapt consumption habits to help depressive individuals optimize their quality of life and well-being.

Originality/value

This paper contributes empirically and theoretically to the discussion of mental health and consumption and introduces innovative consumption categories (from daily life) that are incipient in previous literature.
Representation of women of color on the covers of the top three fashion magazines: a content analysis
Authors: Mitchell Natalie A. , Stovall Tony , Avalos David
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to assess the representation of women of color (WOC) in the top 3 fashion magazines and explore the implications of underrepresentation within marketing communications. The authors draw from diffusion theory and marketplace omission and commission to situate the research focus and highlight its application to the study findings.

Design/methodology/approach

A content analysis was conducted on 481 cover models on the top three fashion magazines of 2018 – Vogue, Cosmopolitan and Vanity Fair during 2006–2018.

Findings

The findings indicate WOC are underrepresented despite the strides of inclusion in the marketplace in America during a postracial period. Representation is as follows: white – 412 (86%); black – 41 (9%); Latina – 19 (3.9%); biracial 7 (1.5%); Asian – 1 (0.2%); and Native American – 1 (0.2%). Latina models had the lowest representation. Native and Asian women were completely excluded. When they do appear, black and Latina cover models are more likely than white models to be shown wearing sexually suggestive attire.

Practical implications

This study makes four recommendations to promote antiracism in marketing: diversify staff hiring and editorial decision-makers for public-facing talent; solicit counsel from multicultural marketing agencies; create antiracist marketing curriculum; and cultivate a pipeline of diverse talent for future hiring.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper centers its contribution to the dearth research investigating representation implications within the fashion marketing industry during an alleged post-racial period, and a longer time span. It also presents structured antiracist marketing solutions to mitigate underrepresentation.
To work at home or in the office? Well-being, information flow and relationships between office workers before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Aidla Anne , Kindsiko Eneli , Poltimäe Helen , Hääl Laura
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to compare employee well-being, information flow and relationships with co-workers and supervisors for people working at home and working in different office types before and during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design/methodology/approach

A nationwide study of 2,845 Estonian office workers in autumn 2019 and 2,972 in spring 2020 was carried out.

Findings

It was discovered that in normal circumstances, people at home had similar results to those in a cell office or activity-based office. Open-plan offices were found to be the worst in respect to the facets of work studied. However, in the context of the pandemic, the playing field became more level in some respects and worse in the case of activity-based offices.

Practical implications

When telework is well arranged both in terms of facilities and organising the necessary communication and information flow, then it is a viable alternative to working in an office. What is more, employers need to pay more attention to the physical and social work conditions in open-plan offices and also activity-based offices in the context of a pandemic.

Originality/value

Previous studies have only compared telework with working in an office in general. Comparing working at home with different kinds of offices gives valuable insights.
A foreigner in a foreign country: examining biography and memoirs of Georg Mayer through reflexive agency
Authors: Zincir Oya
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper is concerned with the concept of reflexive agency through the biography and memoirs of Georg Mayer, a Jewish businessman who immigrated to Turkey before 1945 and lived there for almost 40 years. This paper aims to explore reflexive agency using the concepts of structural conditions (socioeconomic background), contextual stimuli (activation of reflexivity) and individual perspectives at different points in life (main concerns, reflection on the past, projects and decision-making).

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is developed using qualitative research methods, analyzing a variety of sources including books, papers, biographical materials and personal memoirs. Primary sources are three books written about him and Mayer Stores using the method of oral history. Moreover, Mayer’s memoirs, which provided rich information about his observations of people, acts and culture, were analyzed.

Findings

Several conclusions can be drawn. While there are typologies for reflexive agency, it is found that a person can fit into several modes at different times and/or at the same time. Another finding is that an individual’s social network is an important factor for his/her reflexive agency. When immigrating to another country with a contextual discontinuity and structural change, an established community and economic opportunities are important factors. A strong stimulus such as a life threat can be a force majeure and trigger for individuals to take risks, affecting their abilities of reflexivity.

Originality/value

This paper presents a unique case study that examines immigration from Western countries before 1945. This paper tries to provide detailed information about social context, including critical milestones, bring the concepts of culture, identity, migration and reflexivity together by analyzing an atypical business figure through his biography and personal memoirs, and use narrative analysis to explain how a reflexive person can act in contextual discontinuity, hence showing how structural, cultural and personal emergent properties can be understood together.
Assessing the relative significance of benefits of clean development mechanism: an evidence from India
Authors: Shandilya Bhaskar , Pant Pushpesh , Gupta V.B. , Singh Sandeep , Salwan Prashant
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify critical Clean Development Mechanism (CDM) benefits and assess their relative significance in the context of developing economies (e.g. India).

Design/methodology/approach

This study has conducted face-to-face (offline/online) discussions with experts in order to identify appropriate criteria and related CDM benefits. Further, this study has used subsequently, using the analytic hierarchy process, a multi-criteria decision-making method and assess the relative significance of benefits of CDM projects.

Findings

The results reveal that knowledge and capacity building, technology transfer and social benefits are the most significant CDM benefits, respectively. It is because the knowledge and capacity building tends to disseminate the awareness on CDM benefits among policymakers and stakeholders, thereby, lead to efficient policy-making and encourage effective technology transfer in a way to achieve sustainable economic growth in the host country.

Originality/value

The literature is dominated by studies of CDM projects in Brazil, Mexico, Chile, Africa and China. Within the thousands of CDM projects globally, India only has 1,376 registered CDM projects. To the authors' knowledge, this is one of the first studies that highlight the relative significance of CDM benefits in the context of India. This study will enhance the implementation in the Indian scenario.
Preparation of new modified antimicrobial alkyd resin based on benzo[b]thiophene derivative as source of polyol for surface coating applications
Authors: Abd El-Wahab H. , El-Eisawy Raafat A.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to prepare new modified alkyd resins and use it as an antimicrobial binder for surface coating applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Various modified alkyd resins were prepared by partial replacement of 3,6-dichloro benzo[b]thiophene-2-carbonyl bis-(2-hydroxy ethyl)-amide as a source of polyol with glycerol and confirmed by acid value, FT-IR, 1H-NMR. The modified alkyd resins were covering a wide range of oil lengths and hydroxyl content (0%, 10%, 20% and 30% excess-OH). The antimicrobial activity of the prepared alkyds was also investigated. The coatings of 60 ± 5 µm thickness were applied to the surface of glass panels and mild steel strips by means of a brush. Physico-mechanical tests, chemical resistance and antimicrobial activities were investigated.

Findings

The obtained results illustrate that the introduction of benzo[b]thiophene derivative as a modifier polyol within the resin structure improved the film performance and enhanced the physico-mechanical characteristics, chemical resistance and the antimicrobial activities.

Practical implications

The modified alkyd resins can be employed as antimicrobial binders in paint compositions for a variety of surfaces, particularly those that are susceptible to a high number of bacteria.

Originality/value

Modified alkyd resins based on antimicrobial heterocyclic compounds have the potential to be promising in the manufacturing of antimicrobial coatings and development of paints, allowing them to function to prevent the spread of microbial infection, which is exactly what the world requires at this time. Also, they can be applied in different substrates for industrial applications.
Typical wheel–rail profile change rules and matching characteristics of high speed railway in China
Authors: Hou Maorui , Liu Fengshou , Hu Xiaoyi
Published: May 2022

Purpose

In order to systematically grasp the changes and matching characteristics of wheel and rail profiles of high speed railway (HSR) in China, 172 rail profile measurement points and 384 wheels of 6 high-speed electric motive unites (EMUs) were selected on 6 typical HSR lines, including Beijing–Shanghai, Wuhan–Guangzhou, Harbin–Dalian, Lanzhou–Xinjiang, Guiyang–Guangzhou and Dandong–Dalian for a two-year field test.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the measured data, the characteristics of rail and wheel wear were analyzed by mathematical statistics method. The equivalent conicity of wheel and rail matching in a wheel reprofiling cycle was analyzed by using the measured rail profile.

Findings

Results showed that when the curve radius of HSR was larger than 2,495 m, the wear rate of straight line and curve rail was almost the same. For the line with annual traffic gross weight less than 11 Mt, the vertical wear of rail was less than 0.01 mm. The wear rate of the rail with the curve radius less than 800 m increased obviously. The wheel tread wear of EMUs on Harbin–Dalian line, Lanzhou–Xinjiang line and Dandong–Dalian line was relatively large, and the average wear rate of tread was about 0.05–0.06 mm·(10,000 km)−1, while that of Beijing–Shanghai line, Wuhan–Guangzhou line and Guiyang–Guangzhou line was about 0.03–0.035 mm·(10,000 km)−1. When the wear range was small, the equivalent conicity increased with the increase of wheel tread wear. When the wear range of wheel was wide, the wheel–rail contact points were evenly distributed, and the equivalent conicity did not increase obviously.

Originality/value

This research proposes the distribution range of the equivalent conicity in one reprofiling cycle of various EMU trains, which provides guidance for the condition-based wheel reprofiling.
The coupled vibration of train and bridge as high-speed trains meet in crosswind
Authors: Guo Wenhua , Hong Xinmin , Chen Chunxia
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to study the influence of aerodynamics force of trains passing each other on the dynamic response of vehicle bridge coupling system based on numerical simulation and multi-body dynamics and put forward the speed threshold for safe running of train under different crosswind speeds.

Design/methodology/approach

The computational fluid dynamics method is adopted to simulate the aerodynamic force in the whole process of train passing each other by using dynamic grid technology. The dynamic model of vehicle-bridge coupling system is established considering the effects of aerodynamic force of train passing each other under crosswind, the dynamic response of train intersection on the bridge under crosswind is computed and the running safety of the train is evaluated.

Findings

The aerodynamic force of trains' intersection has little effects on the derailment factor, lateral wheel-rail force and vertical acceleration of train, but it increases the offload factor of train and significantly increases the lateral acceleration of train. The crosswind has a significant effect on increasing the derailment factor, lateral wheel-rail force and offload factor of train. The offload factor of train is the key factor to control the threshold of train speed. The impact of the aerodynamic force of trains' intersection on running safety cannot be ignored. When the extreme values of crosswind wind speed are 15 m·s−1, 20 m·s−1 and 25 m·s−1, respectively, the corresponding speed thresholds for safe running of train are 350 km·h−1, 275 km·h−1 and 200 km·h−1, respectively.

Originality/value

The research can provide a more precise numerical method to study the running safety of high-speed trains under the aerodynamic effect of trains passing each other on bridge in crosswind.
Developing a logic model for implementing citizen advocacy for adults with learning disabilities based on the experience of community inclusion centres for disabled people
Authors: Kim Yong Deug
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Several leading agencies in Korea are interested in citizen advocacy as one way of supporting people with learning disabilities. Therefore, several social welfare organisations require citizen advocacy guidance. This study aims to propose a logic model in the Korean context through responses from leading practitioners.

Design/methodology/approach

The logic model was explained to the middle-level practitioners of five community inclusion centres for disabled people who were leading the way in implementing citizen advocacy. After completing a form, the logic model was constructed through analysis.

Findings

Resources, activities, outputs, outcomes and impact that constitute the logic model framework were addressed. These contents are related to those using and supporting citizen advocacy, such as people with learning disabilities, their families, citizen advocates, service agencies and communities.

Originality/value

The logic model of citizen advocacy was constructed by reflecting the Korean context; thus, laying the foundation for implementing citizen advocacy nationwide.
Nexus between technological capital, organizational structure and knowledge sharing in organizational restructuring initiatives
Authors: Ben Zammel Ibticem , Najar Tharwa
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Emphasis is placed on knowledge-sharing practices and their influence on the power structure influenced by the technological background of the organization. This paper aims to focus on technological skills institutionalized to build organizational technological capital favoring the knowledge-sharing practices. It aims to extend the sociology literature by providing a conceptual background to explain the restructuring initiatives through the stabilizing role of technological capital.

Design/methodology/approach

Two comparative case studies have been conducted: the first study took place in a public company and the second study was carried out in a private company of telecommunication involving a documentary study, an observation and semi-structured interviews.

Findings

The findings in this paper show that the knowledge-sharing practices in the organizational field are stabilized by the technological capital. The technological capital promotes a knowledge management system and plays an important role in restructuring the established power within knowledge intensive organizations.

Practical implications

Chief executive officers are encouraged to promote sharing practices through developing an innovation culture and valuing technological skills. Relevance should be granted to the technological capital, which aligns the restructuring of a learning organization and promotes the knowledge management systems and stabilizes the organizational structure. Organizations should capitalize a set of technological skills as part of their organizational relevant capital.

Originality/value

Based on the practice theory of Bourdieu, this paper lights on the triad relation between knowledge sharing/organizational structure/technological capital through comparing between public/private management modes. A theoretical framework is proposed to overlap the ambiguity of the relation between knowledge and power.
The information sharing among students on social media: the role of social capital and trust
Authors: Muliadi Muliadi , Muhammadiah Mas'ud , Amin Kasma F. , Kaharuddin Kaharuddin , Junaidi Junaidi , Pratiwi Berlin Insan , Fitriani Fitriani
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how social capital (e.g. cognitive and relational) influences students’ trust (e.g. cognitive and affective) as mediator variables, affecting students’ information sharing activity on Facebook.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample consists of 398 valid participants obtained through an online survey and using structural equation modeling (SEM) to test the research hypotheses.

Findings

The empirical results indicate that social capital has significant and positive effects on students’ trust (e.g. cognitive and affective-based trust), also mediator variables. Furthermore, the mediator variables partially mediate social capital and information sharing based on the concept of cognition-affection-behavior (CAB).

Research limitations/implications

This study was limited to Indonesian students. Therefore, future study is needed to analyze across cultures and regions. It can help practitioners, regulators and researchers to observe the dynamic behavior on the impact of social capital on social media users’ activities.

Practical implications

Education stakeholders (e.g. lecturers and teachers) can identify the students’ goal and rational concerns to improve their social capital and trust to share information. The government as a regulator needs to support students’ activities on social media to provide updated information regarding economic and social conditions during and after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature on virtual communities. Specifically, it considers how social capital influences trust, which subsequently affects information sharing based on the CAB context among Indonesian student’ Facebook users.
Closing the Floodgates on Privacy Class Actions: Lloyd v Google LLC
Authors: Goutzamanis Yanni
Published: May 2022

In Lloyd v Google LLC [2021] UKSC 50, the Supreme Court overturned the Court of Appeal's decision, which had allowed a claim under the Data Protection Act 1998 to proceed as a representative action under CPR 19.6. This is significant because the Court of Appeal's decision arguably paved the way for further data protection/privacy claims to be brought as opt‐out ‘class actions’ using this procedure. This case note summarises the Supreme Court decision and assesses its implications for both the procedural law of collective redress and the substantive law of privacy in England. It argues that the Supreme Court's reasoning in relation to both of these areas is sound as a matter of precedent and statutory construction. As a matter of public policy, the decision is likely to re‐enliven debate about the availability of collective redress in English law and whether the existing collective proceedings regime should be broadened.