bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of Viral Insulins Reveals White Adipose Tissue Specific Effects in Mice
Authors: Chrudinová Martina , Moreau Francois , Noh Hye Lim , Páníková Terezie , Žáková Lenka , Friedline Randall H. , Valenzuela Francisco A. , Kim Jason K. , Jiráček Jiří , Kahn C. Ronald , Altindis Emrah
Published: August 2020

Members of the insulin/IGF superfamily are well conserved across the evolutionary tree. We recently showed that four viruses in theIridoviridaefamily possess genes that encode proteins highly homologous to human insulin/IGF-1. Using chemically synthesized single chain (sc), i.e. IGF-1-like, forms of the viral insulin/IGF-1 like peptides (VILPs), we previously showed that they can stimulate human receptors. Because these peptides possess potential cleavage sites to form double chain (dc), i.e. more insulin-like, VILPs, in this study, we have characterized dc forms of VILPs for Grouper iridovirus (GIV), Singapore grouper iridovirus (SGIV) and Lymphocystis disease virus-1 (LCDV-1). GIV and SGIV dcVILPs bind to both isoforms of human insulin receptor (IR-A, IR-B) and to the IGF1R, and for the latter show higher affinity than human insulin. These dcVILPs stimulate IR and IGF1R phosphorylation and post-receptor signaling in vitro and in vivo. Both GIV and SGIV dcVILPs stimulate glucose uptake in mice. In vivo infusion experiments in awake mice revealed that while insulin (0.015 nmol/kg/min) and GIV dcVILP (0.75nmol/kg/min) stimulated a comparable glucose uptake in heart, skeletal muscle and brown adipose tissue, GIV dcVILP stimulated ~2 fold higher glucose uptake in white adipose tissue (WAT) compared to insulin. This was associated with increased Akt phosphorylation and glucose transporter type 4 (GLUT4) gene expression compared to insulin. Taken together, these results show that GIV and SGIV dcVILPs are active members of the insulin superfamily with unique characteristics. Elucidating the mechanism of tissue specificity for GIV dcVILP will help us to better understand insulin action, design new analogues that specifically target the tissues, and provide new insights into their potential role in disease.
Covidex: an ultrafast and accurate tool for virus subtyping
Authors: Cacciabue Marco , Aguilera Pablo , Gismondi María Inés , Taboga Oscar
Published: August 2020

Covidex is an open-source, alignment-free machine learning subtyping tool for viral species. It is a shiny app that allows a fast and accurate classification in pre-defined clusters for SARS-CoV-2 and FMDV genome sequences. The user can also build its own classification models with the Covidex model generator.

Availability

Covidex is open-source, cross-platform compatible, and is available under the terms of the GNU General Public License v3 (http://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl.txt). Covidex is available via SourceForgehttps://sourceforge.net/projects/covidexor the web applicationhttps://cacciabue.shinyapps.io/shiny2/

Contact

cacciabue.marco@inta.gob.ar;marcocacciabue@yahoo.com
Bark from avocado trees of different geographic locations have consistent microbial communities
Authors: Aguirre-von-Wobeser Eneas , Alonso-Sánchez Alexandro , Méndez-Bravo Alfonso , Espino Luis Alberto Villanueva , Reverchon Frédérique
Published: August 2020

Bark is a permanent surface for microbial colonization at the interface of trees and the surrounding air. However, little is known about the microbial communities harbored on these tissues. Studies on bark microbial ecology show a dominance of bacteria from a few phyla. Bark microbial communities of avocado (Persea americana) could have implications for tree health, as a first barrier for defense against certain pests and diseases in this economically important species. We used shotgun metagenomic sequencing to analyze the bark microbial communities of avocado trees from two orchards, and compared one of them to rhizospheric soil. Our results show that the microbial communities of avocado bark have a well-defined taxonomic structure, with consistent patterns of abundance of bacteria, fungi and archaea, even in trees from two different locations. Bacteria in avocado bark were dominated by Proteobacteria (particularly Alphaproteobacteria), Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes, consistently with bark communities in other trees. Fungal members were dominated by Ascomycota and Basidiomycota, while most Archaea in bark were Euryarchaeota. We can conclude that avocado bark is a well-defined environment, providing niches for specific taxonomic groups. The present in-depth characterization of bark microbial communities can form a basis for their future manipulation for agronomical purposes.
Single-pixel epiretinal stimulation with a wide-field and high-density retinal prosthesis for artificial vision
Authors: Ludmilla Chenais Naïg Aurelia , Airaghi Leccardi Marta Jole Ildelfonsa , Ghezzi Diego
Published: August 2020

Retinal prostheses hold the promise of restoring artificial vision in profoundly and totally blind people. However, a decade of clinical trials highlighted quantitative limitations hampering the possibility to reach this goal. A key obstacle to suitable retinal stimulation is the ability to independently activate retinal neurons over a large portion of the subject’s visual field. Reaching such a goal would significantly improve the perception accuracy in the users of retinal implants, along with their spatial cognition, attention, ambient mapping and interaction with the environment. Here we show a wide-field, high-density and high-resolution photovoltaic epiretinal prosthesis for artificial vision. The prosthesis embeds 10,498 physically and functionally independent photovoltaic pixels allowing for both wide retinal coverage and high-resolution stimulation. Single-pixel illumination reproducibly induced network-mediated responses from retinal ganglion cells at safe irradiance levels. Furthermore, the prosthesis enables a sub-receptive field response resolution for retinal ganglion cells having a dendritic tree larger than the pixel’s pitch. This approach could allow the restoration of mid-peripheric artificial vision in patients with retinitis pigmentosa.
Ivermectin converts cold tumors hot and synergies with immune checkpoint blockade for treatment of breast cancer
Authors: Draganov Dobrin , Han Zhen , Bennett Nitasha , Irvine Darrell J. , Lee Peter P.
Published: August 2020

We show that treatment with the FDA-approved anti-parasitic drug ivermectin induces immunogenic cancer cell death (ICD) and robust T cell infiltration into breast tumors. As an allosteric modulator of the ATP/P2×4/P2×7 axis which operates in both cancer and immune cells, ivermectin also selectively targets immunosuppressive populations including myeloid cells and Tregs, resulting in enhanced Teff/Tregs ratio. While neither agent alone showed efficacyin vivo, combination therapy with ivermectin and checkpoint inhibitor anti-PD1 antibody achieved synergy in limiting tumor growth (p=0.03) and promoted complete responses (p<0.01), also leading to immunity against contralateral re-challenge with demonstrated anti-tumor immune responses. Going beyond primary tumors, this combination achieved significant reduction in relapse after neoadjuvant (p=0.03) and adjuvant treatment (p<0.001), and potential cures in metastatic disease (p<0.001). Statistical modeling confirmed bona fide synergistic activity in both the adjuvant (p=0.007) and metastatic settings (p<0.001). Ivermectin has dual immunomodulatory and ICD-inducing effects in breast cancer, converting ‘cold’ tumors ‘hot’, thus represents a rational mechanistic partner with checkpoint blockade.
A complex of distal appendage-associated kinases linked to human disease regulates ciliary trafficking and stability
Authors: Loukil Abdelhalim , Barrington Chloe , Goetz Sarah C.
Published: August 2020

Cilia biogenesis is a complex, multi-step process involving the coordination of multiple cellular trafficking pathways. Despite the importance of ciliogenesis in mediating the cellular response to cues from the microenvironment, we have only a limited understanding of the regulation of cilium assembly. We previously identified a kinase that acts as a key regulator of ciliogenesis, TTBK2. Here, using CRISPR kinome screening, we identify the CK2 subunit CSNK2A1 as an important modulator of TTBK2 function in cilia trafficking. Super-resolution microscopy reveals that CSNK2A1 is a centrosomal protein concentrated at the mother centriole and associated with the distal appendages where it physically interacts with TTBK2. Further,Csnk2a1knockout partially corrects defects in cilia formation and length inTtbk2hypomorphic cells.Csnk2a1mutant cilia are longer than those of control cells and exhibit instability, particularly at the tip.Csnk2a1mutant cilia also abnormally accumulate key cilia assembly and SHH-related proteins including IFT, GLI2, KIF7, and Smoothened (SMO).De novomutations ofCsnk2a1were recently linked to the human genetic disorder Okur-Chung neurodevelopmental syndrome (OCNDS). Consistent with the role of CSNK2A1 in cilium stability, we find that expression of OCNDS-associatedCsnk2a1variants in wild-type cells cause ciliary structural defects. Our findings provide new insights into mechanisms involved in ciliary length regulation, trafficking, and stability that in turn shed light on the significance and implications of cilia instability in human disease.

SIGNIFICANCE STATEMENT

Primary cilia (PC) are sensory organelles that play essential roles during development and adulthood. Abnormal functioning of PC causes human disorders called ciliopathies. Hence, a thorough understanding of the molecular regulation of PC is critical. Our findings highlight CSNK2A1 as a novel modulator of cilia trafficking and stability, tightly related to TTBK2 function. Enriched at the centrosome, CSNK2A1 prevents abnormal accumulation of key ciliary proteins, instability at the tip, and aberrant activation of the Sonic Hedgehog pathway. Further, we establish thatCsnk2a1mutations associated with Okur-Chung neurodevelopmental disorder (OCNDS) alter cilia morphology. Thus, we report a potential linkage between CSNK2A1 ciliary function and OCNDS.
Limited window for donation of convalescent plasma with high live-virus neutralizing antibodies for COVID-19 immunotherapy
Authors: Gontu Abhinay , Srinivasan Sreenidhi , Salazar Eric , Nair Meera Surendran , Nissly Ruth H. , Greenawalt Denver , Bird Ian M. , Herzog Catherine , Ferrari Matthew J. , Poojary Indira , Katani Robab , Lindner Scott E. , Minns Allen M. , Rossi Randall , Christensen Paul A. , Castillo Brian , Chen Jian , Eagar Todd N. , Yi Xin , Zhao Picheng , Leveque Christopher , Olsen Randall J. , Bernard David W. , Gollihar Jimmy , Kuchipudi Suresh V. , Musser James M. , Kapur Vivek
Published: August 2020

The optimal timeframe for donating convalescent plasma to be used for COVID-19 immunotherapy is unknown. To address this important knowledge deficit, we determinedin vitrolive-virus neutralizing capacity and persistence of IgM and IgG antibody responses against the receptor-binding domain and S1 ectodomain of the SARS-CoV-2 spike glycoprotein in 540 convalescent plasma samples obtained from 175 COVID-19 plasma donors for up to 142 days post-symptom onset. Robust IgM, IgG, and viral neutralization responses to SARS-CoV-2 persist, in the aggregate, for at least 100 days post-symptom onset. However, a notable acceleration in decline in virus neutralization titers ≥160, a value suitable for convalescent plasma therapy, was observed starting 60 days after first symptom onset. Together, these findings better define the optimal window for donating convalescent plasma useful for immunotherapy of COVID-19 patients and reveal important predictors of an ideal plasma donor, including age and COVID-19 disease severity score.

One Sentence Summary

Evaluation of SARS-CoV-2 anti-spike protein IgM, IgG, and live-virus neutralizing titer profiles reveals that the optimal window for donating convalescent plasma for use in immunotherapy is within the first 60 days of symptom onset.
Integrative proteomics reveals exceptional diversity and versatility of mammalian humoral immunity
Authors: Xiang Yufei , Sang Zhe , Bitton Lirane , Xu Jianquan , Liu Yang , Schneidman-Duhovny Dina , Shi Yi
Published: August 2020

The humoral immune response is essential for the survival of mammals. However, we still lack a systematic understanding of the specific serologic antibody repertoire in response to an antigen. We developed a proteomic strategy to survey, at an unprecedented scale, the landscapes of antigen-engaged, serum-circulating repertoires of camelid heavy-chain antibodies (hcAbs). The sensitivity and robustness of this technology were validated using three antigens spanning orders of magnitude in immune response; thousands of divergent, high-affinity hcAb families were confidently identified and quantified. Using high-throughput structural modeling, cross-linking mass spectrometry, mutagenesis, and deep learning, we mapped and analyzed the epitopes of > 100,000 antigen-antibody complexes. Our results revealed a surprising diversity of high-affinity hcAbs for specific antigen binding on a variety of dominant epitopes. hcAbs perfect both shape and charge complementarity to target challenging antigens specifically; they can rapidly evolve to recognize a conserved, promiscuous cellular protein interaction interface, unraveling the convergent force that drives protein-protein interactions.
Cryo-EM Structures of HIV-1 trimer bound to CD4-mimetics M48U1 and BNM-III-170 adopt a CD4-bound open conformation
Authors: Jette Claudia A. , Barnes Christopher O. , Kirk Sharon M. , Melillo Bruno , Smith Amos B. , Bjorkman Pamela J.
Published: August 2020

Human Immunodeficiency Virus-1 (HIV-1), the causative agent of AIDS, impacts millions of people. Entry into target cells is mediated by the HIV-1 envelope (Env) glycoprotein interacting with host receptor CD4, which triggers conformational changes allowing binding to a coreceptor and subsequent membrane fusion. Small molecule or peptide CD4-mimetic drugs mimic CD4’s Phe43 interaction with Env by inserting into the conserved Phe43 pocket on Env subunit gp120. Here, we present single-particle cryo-EM structures of CD4-mimetics BNM-III-170 and M48U1 bound to a BG505 native-like Env trimer plus the CD4-induced antibody 17b at 3.7Å and 3.9Å resolution, respectively. CD4-mimetic-bound BG505 exhibits canonical CD4-induced conformational changes including trimer opening, formation of the 4-stranded gp120 bridging sheet, displacement of the V1V2 loop, and formation of a compact and elongated gp41 HR1C helical bundle. We conclude that CD4-induced structural changes on both gp120 and gp41 Env subunits are induced by binding to the gp120 Phe43 pocket.
Emergence of Non-Canonical Parvalbumin-Containing Interneurons in Hippocampus of a Murine Model of Type I Lissencephaly
Authors: Ekins Tyler G. , Mahadevan Vivek , Zhang Yajun , D’Amour James A. , Petros Timothy , McBain Chris J.
Published: August 2020

Type I lissencephaly is a neuronal migration disorder caused by haploinsuffiency of theLIS1 geneand is characterized in humans by agyria, mislamination of brain structures, developmental delays, and epilepsy. Here, we investigate the impact ofLIS1mutation on the cellular migration, morphophysiology, microcircuitry and genomics of mouse hippocampal CA1 parvalbumin-containing inhibitory interneurons (PV+INTs). We find that WT PV+INTs consist of two physiological subtypes (80% fast-spiking (FS), 20% non-fast-spiking (NFS)) and four morphological subtypes (basket, axo-axonic, bistratified, radiatum-targeting). We also discover that cell-autonomous mutations within interneurons disrupts morphological development of PV+INTs and results in the emergence of a non-canonical “intermediate spiking (IS)” subset of PV+INTs. In the GlobalLis mutant, IS/NFS cells become the dominant PV+INT subtypes (56%) and the percentage of FS cells shrinks to 44%. We also find that IS/NFS cells are prone to entering depolarizing block, causing them to temporarily lose the ability to initiate action potentials and control network excitation, potentially promoting seizures. Finally, single-cell nuclear RNAsequencing of PV+INTs revealed several misregulated genes related to morphogenesis, cellular excitability, and synapse formation.
Stable isotope informed genome-resolved metagenomics uncovers potential trophic interactions in rhizosphere soil
Authors: Starr Evan P. , Shi Shengjing , Blazewicz Steven J. , Koch Benjamin J. , Probst Alexander J. , Hungate Bruce A. , Pett-Ridge Jennifer , Firestone Mary K. , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: August 2020

The functioning, health, and productivity of soil is intimately tied to a complex network of interactions, particularly in plant root-associated rhizosphere soil. We conducted a stable isotope-informed, genome-resolved metagenomic study to trace carbon fromAvena fatuagrown in a13CO2atmosphere into soil. We collected paired rhizosphere and non-rhizosphere soil at six and nine weeks of plant growth and extracted DNA that was then separated by density using gradient centrifugation. Thirty-two fractions from each sample were grouped by density, sequenced, assembled, and binned to generate 55 unique microbial genomes that were >70% complete. The complete 18S rRNA sequences of several micro-eukaryotic bacterivores and fungi were enriched in13C. We generated several circularized bacteriophage (phage) genomes, some of which were the most labelled entities in the rhizosphere. CRISPR locus targeting connected one of these phage to a Burkholderiales host predicted to be a plant pathogen. Another highly labeled phage is predicted to replicate in aCatenulispora sp., a possible plant growth-promoting bacterium. We searched the genomes for traits known to be used in interactions involving bacteria, micro-eukaryotes and plant roots and found that heavily isotopically-labeled bacteria have the ability to modulate plant signaling hormones, possess numerous plant pathogenicity factors, and produce toxins targeting micro-eukaryotes. Overall,13C stable isotope-informed genome-resolved metagenomics revealed that very active bacteria often have the potential for strong interactions with plants and directly established that phage can be important agents of turnover of plant-derived carbon in soil.
Compartment-Specific Neurexin Nanodomains Orchestrate Tripartite Synapse Assembly
Authors: Trotter Justin H. , Dargaei Zahra , Sclip Alessandra , Essayan-Perez Sofia , Liakath-Ali Kif , Raju Karthik , Nabet Amber , Liu Xinran , Wöhr Markus , Südhof Thomas C.
Published: August 2020

At tripartite synapses, astrocytes enmesh synaptic contacts, but how astrocytes contribute to the formation, maturation and plasticity of synapses remains elusive. Here we show that both astrocytes and neurons abundantly express neurexin-1, a presynaptic adhesion molecule that controls synaptic properties. Using super-resolution imaging, we demonstrate that presynaptic neuronal and astrocytic neurexin-1 form discrete nanoclusters at excitatory synapses. We find that distinct patterns of heparan sulfate modification and alternative splicing confer onto astrocytic and neuronal neurexin-1 different ligand specificities, thereby enabling compartment-specific signaling by neurexin-1. At hippocampal Schaffer-collateral synapses, deletion of neurexin-1 from either astrocytes or neurons did not alter synapse numbers, but differentially impaired synapse function. Neuronal neurexin-1 was essential for NMDA-receptor-mediated synaptic responses, whereas astrocytic neurexin-1 was required for maturation of silent synapses, AMPA-receptor recruitment, and long-term potentiation. Thus, astrocytes and neurons surprisingly use the same synaptic adhesion molecule to control distinct synapse properties.
Estimating the density of small population of leopardPanthera pardususing multi-session photographic□sampling data
Authors: Farhadinia Mohammad S. , Behnoud Pouyan , Hobeali Kaveh , Mousavi Seyed Jalal , Hosseini-Zavarei Fatemeh , Gholikhani Navid , Akbari Hasan , Eslami Morteza , Moghadas Peyman , Macdonald David W.
Published: August 2020

West Asian drylands host a number of threatened large carnivores, including the leopard(Panthera pardus)which is limited to spatially scattered landscapes with generally low primary productivity. While conservation efforts have focused on these areas for several decades, reliable population density estimates are missing. Spatially-explicit capture-recapture (SECR) methodology, incorporating animal movement in density estimates, is widely used to monitor populations of large carnivores. We employed multi-session SECR modeling to estimate the density of a small population of leopard (Panthera pardus) in a mountainous stretch surrounded by deserts in central Iran. During 6724 camera trap nights, we detected eight and five independent leopards in 2012 and 2016 sessions, respectively. The top performing model demonstrated density estimates of 1.6 (95% CI = 0.9-2.9) and 1.0 (95% CI = 0.6-1.6) independent leopards/100 km2in 2012 and 2016, respectively. Both sex and season had substantial effects on spatial scale (σ), with larger movements for males and during winter. Currently available estimates in arid regions represent some of the lowest densities across the leopard global range. These small populations are vulnerable to demographic stochasticity. Monitoring temporal changes in population density and composition can inform conservation priorities.
DNA-RNA hybrid (R-loop): from a unified picture of the mammalian telomere to the genome-wide
Authors: Rassoulzadegan Minoo , Sharifi-Zarchi Ali , Kianmehr Leila
Published: August 2020

Local three-stranded DNA-RNA hybrid regions of the genomes (R-loops) have been detected either by binding of a monoclonal antibody (DRIP assay) or by enzymatic recognition by RNaseH. Such a structure has been postulated for the mouse and human telomeres, clearly suggested by the identification of the complementary RNA TERRA. It was, however, evidenced by DRIP exclusively in human cancer and not in normal human nor in any mouse cell. Based on the observation that in several fractionation procedures, DNA-RNA hybrids copurify with double-stranded DNA, we developed a preparative approach that allows detection of stable DNA-RNA triplexes in a complex genome, their physical isolation and their RNA nucleotide sequence. We then define in the normal mouse and human genomes the notion of terminal R-loop complexes including TERRA molecules synthesized from local promoters of every chromosome. In addition to the telomeric structures since, the finding of the RNA peak, applied in addition to the whole murine sperm genomes, has highlighted a reproducible profile of the R-loop complexes from entire genome suggesting a defined profile for a future generation.
Deciphering congenital anomalies for the next generation
Authors: Wojcik Monica H. , Agrawal Pankaj B.
Published: August 2020

Congenital anomalies are common, with 2%–3% of infants estimated to have at least one major congenital malformation and countless others with minor malformations of lesser cosmetic or medical importance. As congenital malformations are major drivers of morbidity and mortality, representing the leading cause of infant mortality in the United States, there is substantial interest in understanding the underlying etiologies—particularly if modifiable causes may be identified or pre- or postnatal treatments can be offered. Recent research has begun to reveal the spectrum of monogenic disorders that commonly result in birth defects, and newer approaches have revealed non-Mendelian genetic contributions including gene–environment interactions. Our experience suggests that increased efforts to sequence and analyze cases of perinatal death, as well as continued global collaboration, will be essential in understanding the genomic landscape of structural anomalies.
Developing insights into the link between art and tourism through the value co-creation lens
Authors: Gökbulut Özdemir Özge , Fillis Ian , Baş Collins Ayşe
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The aim of the study is to gain insight into the link between art and tourism from a value co-creation perspective. This link is discussed with the help of the arts marketing, art tourism and value co-creation literature. The role of art in tourism and the role of cultural places in arts marketing are also evaluated.

Design/methodology/approach

Focussing on two cultural heritage sites in Turkey, Zeugma and Göbeklitepe, a qualitative study was undertaken in order to determine the value creation and co-creation processes occurring from the art–tourism contexts based on comparative case study analysis. In-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted with three groups of actors. Motivation, expectation and stakeholder experiences were the main themes explored.

Findings

The findings of the study relate to the role of the co-creation process. Marketing art in alternative places creates value in closing the gap between art and society through the use of related fields such as culture and heritage. In terms of cultural value, the paper identifies the reconnection with cultural heritage through contemporary art. This is a way of looking at culture and its concepts in different time and place dimensions which make visitors more engaged with culture and its contemporary reflection through art.

Research limitations/implications

Although the research focusses on two Turkish art and tourism cases, future research can be extended to other countries, including the assessment of the longer-term role of similar activities.

Practical implications

As art is a subset of culture, the people who are interested in culture and history also have the potential to be interested in art. While art impacts on cultural tourism, cultural heritage and tourism work as arts marketing tools in a co-supporting way. The coming together of art and culture has societal benefits. There are lessons for practice such as the opening of a space for contemporary art in cultural heritage museums in order to promote art to society. The museum audience is an important potential for the future of art from a market generation perspective.

Originality/value

The study contribute to arts tourism, arts marketing and value co-creation in theory and practice.
Towards developing a measure of disorganization
Authors: Herath Dinuka B.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to test the hypothesized concave relationship between disorganization and individual financial performance using UK Workplace Employment Relations Study (WERS) datasets. Given there are no prior studies measuring disorganization we start with using scale items from currently validated scales, WERS, and try to determine the extent to which the current scales are applicable for measuring disorganization and subsequently highlight the limitations of current measures.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on the UK Workplace Employment Relations study (WERS) datasets of 2011 which is the largest publicly accessible dataset available. The datasets used were the financial performance survey (FPS) data and the management survey (MS) data with 545 unique records. Polynomial Regression was used to test the hypotheses. An aggregated index for disorganization (IV) was developed, and a production function was used to determine the individual financial performance per worker (DV).

Findings

A significant linear relationship between disorganization and individual financial performance was discovered. However, this relationship was linear and did not exhibit the theorized concave relationship. The findings further indicated the need for more refined measures of disorganization and limitations of the current measures.

Originality/value

While the study is exploratory in nature, this is the first study to date which attempts to measure disorganization in an applied setting. Thus, the work presented here is foundational to any future empirical studies on the topic. The limitations uncovered are of particular importance.
Gaining satisfaction: the role of brand equity orientation and failure type in service recovery
Authors: Ma Ke , Zhong Xin , Hou Guanghui
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the role played by brand equity orientation and failure type in service recovery. Specifically, through the lens of forgiveness, the way brand equity orientation and failure type influence consumer response to recovery is revealed.

Design/methodology/approach

This research tests a novel model using data collected from 1,589 consumers in two scenario-based experimental studies. The statistical product and service solutions (SPSS) program with the PROCESS tool was used to test the mediation and moderated mediation effects.

Findings

The research findings suggest that forgiveness plays a mediation role in the relationship between recovery and satisfaction. Brand equity orientation moderates the mediation effect of forgiveness on the relationship between recovery and recovery satisfaction. In addition, failure type also plays an important role and there is a significant three-way interaction effect (service recovery × brand equity orientation × failure type) on recovery satisfaction under certain circumstances.

Research limitations/implications

Building on the extant literature which focuses on the cognitive process when investigating recovery and consumer reaction, this research advocates the significant role played by the psychological process, namely, the feeling of forgiveness, in explaining the effect of distinct recovery strategies on consumer satisfaction. This research also unveils the effects of brand equity orientation and failure type on recovery outcomes.

Practical implications

When addressing performance failure, brand equity orientation and failure type need to be identified. Businesses could develop recovery strategies to arouse consumer forgiveness, which would lead to increased recovery satisfaction. When designing recovery strategies, managers need to be mindful of the effects of brand equity orientation and failure type.

Originality/value

This research is one of the few which reveals the mediating role played by forgiveness on the effect of recovery. Taking brand equity orientation and failure type into consideration, the findings of this research provide new insights into the recovery literature.
Risk identification and modeling for blockchain-enabled container shipping
Authors: Nguyen Son , Chen Peggy Shu-Ling , Du Yuquan
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Although being considered for adoption by stakeholders in container shipping, application of blockchain is hindered by different factors. This paper investigates the potential operational risks of blockchain-integrated container shipping systems as one of such barriers.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature review is employed as the method of risk identification. Scientific articles, special institutional reports and publications of blockchain solution providers were included in an inclusive qualitative analysis. A directed acyclic graph (DAG) was constructed and analyzed based on network topological metrics.

Findings

Twenty-eight potential risks and 47 connections were identified in three groups of initiative, transitional and sequel. The DAG analysis results reflect a relatively well-connected network of identified hazardous events (HEs), suggesting the pervasiveness of information risks and various multiple-event risk scenarios. The criticality of the connected systems' security and information accuracy are also indicated.

Originality/value

This paper indicates the changes of container shipping operational risk in the process of blockchain integration by using updated data. It creates awareness of the emerging risks, provides their insights and establishes the basis for further research.
Effects of the political risk on Bitcoin return and volatility: evidence from the 2016 US presidential election
Authors: Ajmi Hechem , Arfaoui Nadia
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effect of the political risk on Bitcoin return and volatility during the 2016 US pre-election and post-election periods.

Design/methodology/approach

A daily composite political risk index is calculated by using the principal component analysis and Google Trends. A quantile regression approach is adopted to assess the effect of the political risk index on Bitcoin return and volatility for both periods subject to market conditions.

Findings

Findings reveal that the political risk index tends to increase when moving from the pre-election period to the post-election one. This is mostly attributed to the new challenges faced by the new elected government. During the pre-election period, the quantiles regression shows that the political risk index negatively affects Bitcoin return when the market is bearish, whereas a positive impact on volatility is found in bearish and bullish markets. When the political situation becomes severer during the post-election period, the quantiles plots show that the increase of the political risk index leads to a significant increase of Bitcoin return, whereas Bitcoin volatility remains relatively stable. This means that Bitcoin can be adopted as a hedging tool when the political situation becomes severer.

Originality/value

Comparing to the existed studies in the field, this paper considers Google trends as a main source to assess the daily composite political risk index during the 2016 US presidential election.
The empirical reality of project management failures in the construction of social housing projects in South Africa
Authors: Amoah Christopher , Kajimo-Shakantu Kahilu , van Schalkwyk Tanya
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The concept of government reconstruction development programme (RDP) social housing in South Africa was rolled out in 1994 after the African National Congress Government came to power when the apartheid rule was abolished. The main aim of the government was to enhance the lifestyles of the poor in society through the provision of houses that they could not afford in the open market. However, many concerns have been reported about the social housing project in terms of poor project implementation and the delivery of deliverables that do not befit the need of the end-users. This study aims to assess the flaws in the application of project management (PM) principles in the construction of these social houses.

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative approach was adopted for the study by making use of closed- and open-ended questionnaires to collect data from 1,893 social housing inhabitants in Bloemfontein, Free State. Descriptive statistics and R programming language software were used to analyse the data collected.

Findings

The findings reveal that there was a profound failure in the application of PM principles in the construction of the social houses leading to the provision of deliverables that do not meet the needs of the beneficiaries. There are also poor project deliverables and lack of consultations that could have probably been prevented had proper PM systems been put in place by the government throughout the project lifecycle. This lack of proper PM philosophies has generated dissatisfaction among the beneficiaries leading to numerous complaints about the social housing programme.

Research limitations/implications

The survey was done in only RDP housing communities in Bloemfontein in the Free State Province of South Africa; however, the result may be applicable in other RDP housing programmes.

Practical implications

The empirical results indicate that the government has been providing houses with disregard to project objectives by not instituting an appropriate PM systems; hence, the main objective of providing befitting houses to the less privileged to enhance their living conditions has woefully failed, as the inhabitants do not see any improvement of their social standings after receiving the houses. This means the government might have wasted resources as a result of ineffective PM throughout the project implementation.

Originality/value

This study has identified PM flaws in the construction of the RDP houses, which have led to poor project deliverables. This study thus gives recommendations with regard to proper PM strategies for the implementation of the same or similar project in the future to achieve project objectives.
Perceived quality of built environment, service, satisfaction and value in use, in the context of residential buildings
Authors: Da Silva Marcelo Benetti Corrêa , Giacometti Valente Marina , Petroli Angela , Detoni Deonir , Milan Gabriel Sperandio
Published: August 2020

Purpose

Post-occupancy evaluation (POE) demonstrates relevance nowadays. Because of the wide competition between construction companies, it is necessary to be assertive, so satisfied clients bring new clients through communication amongst the users. This paper aims to assist a construction company, evaluating apartment owner’s perceptions regarding the built environment, the perceived quality of services, the satisfaction and the value in use, in the context of multifamily buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper presents quantitative research of POE, applying confirmatory factor analysis and multiple linear regression. These methods analyse how the attributes behave in each theoretical dimension and evaluate the relationship between the dimensions of the built environment and services including customer satisfaction and value in use.

Findings

The results demonstrate that the constructs associated with management aspects such as service, cause higher levels of satisfaction and, therefore, higher value in use. The results become guidelines for constructors, supporting management and project decision-making.

Research limitations/implications

This study’s limitation is related to the number of questionnaires applied. The survey was applied to the apartment owners in all five buildings from a constructor, considered as the entire population of the research. For that reason, there were not used a sample. Further studies are required to improve the results, even more, using the present research in a larger sample, seeking a better generalisation. Also, future studies might evaluate other types of constructions and environments.

Originality/value

This paper used marketing constructs related to satisfaction, value in use and service, applied in the construction field of multifamily residential buildings.
Improving care in care homes: what can Primary Care Networks learn from the Vanguards?
Authors: Coleman Anna , Croke Sarah , Checkland Kath
Published: August 2020

Purpose

We trace the evolution of a new integrated care policy in the English NHS (enhanced health in care homes, EHCH) from pilot model to wider roll out, over a 4-year period, into the circumstances of COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

Using published evidence and official documentation we compared and contrasted the original EHCH model/framework, subsequent draft specifications and the final proposals, ahead of implementation.

Findings

The Primary Care Network EHCH service specification has clearly arisen from the Vanguard programme; however, problems related to GP contracts and COVID-19 means, at least initially, there is likely to be some variability over who will be responsible for delivery. It is unknown whether this service, delivered at pace in the current circumstances, will achieve or affect the outcomes envisaged by the pilots.

Research limitations/implications

This is our interpretation of the developing policy for enhanced health in care homes, which requires further follow-up research. We are beginning our final fieldwork phase in Summer 2020, to report on the Vanguard legacy.

Practical implications

Evaluations of policy success/failure should consider the context and the differing power relations that are present and may impact subsequent take-up and roll-out across the system. We recommend a longitudinal approach to enable a holistic view of policy implementation.

Originality/value

This paper reveals the fragility of health and care policymaking in the current climate. From initial concept, through development and testing, into forced early roll out, our observations reflect the unique impact of a global pandemic shock.
Applying the EEE customer mindset in luxury: reevaluating customer experience research and practice during and after corona
Authors: Klaus Philipp ‘Phil' , Manthiou Aikaterini
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This paper’s objective is to raise awareness of how customer experience (CX) research, a key construct of modern-day service research, needs to be revisited in view of the pandemic. Particularly, we examine whether CX-related service research constructs, models and frameworks need to be reevaluated during and after the Corona crisis and if so, how and why? Moreover, this paper contributes to CX research by analyzing the customer mindset from three perspectives: emotions, employment and expectations (EEE).

Design/methodology/approach

We critically review current CX practices and investigate the impact on how customers perceive services in this time of crisis.

Findings

Based on this critical analysis, we discuss implications for research and practice with reference to the example of the luxury industry with its historical emphasis on the CX. This discussion leads to related propositions and research directions through Corona and beyond.

Originality/value

We investigate the current customer mindset in more detail, which we divide into three main themes: emotions, employment and expectations (EEE).
A multidimensional analysis of spiritual leadership, affective commitment and employees' creativity in South Korea
Authors: Jeon Ki Seok , Choi Byoung Kwon
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationships between three dimensions – vision, hope/faith and altruistic love – of spiritual leadership and employees' creativity and to verify the mediating role of affective commitment in such relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 462 South Korean employees in diverse industries through self-reported questionnaires, and hypotheses were tested using hierarchical multiple regression analysis.

Findings

The authors found that vision, hope/faith and altruistic love were positively related to employees' creativity, while their affective commitment mediated such relationships. The authors also verified that the multidimensional structure of spiritual leadership was valid in the context of South Korea.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that leaders need to understand the importance of vision, hope/faith and altruistic love toward employees in formulating employees' affective commitment and stimulating creativity. Thus, organizations need to establish and operate leadership training programs for promoting leaders' behaviors that are based on spirituality.

Originality/value

This study contributes to broadening the variety of spiritual leadership's outcomes by providing an initial evidence of how spiritual leadership is associated with employees' creativity. Extending the verification of multidimensional structure of spiritual leadership so that it can be applied in South Korea has also been considered.
Corporate environmental performance–financial performance relationship in India using eco-efficiency metrics
Authors: Sudha S.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to attempt to empirically examine the impact of disaggregate, eco-efficiency-based measures of corporate environmental performance (CEP) on corporate financial performance (CFP) of Indian companies. Further, recent theories contending a bidirectional causality between them is also explored.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data of 224 Indian S&P 500 companies from 2002 to 2011 are used to run panel data regression models for examining the impact of CEP measures on accounting-based CFP measures.

Findings

The empirical results are statistically significant and provide evidence for a positive association of eco-efficiency-based CEP metrics on CFP metrics, thereby supporting Porter's win–win hypothesis. Further, the results evidence a positive bi-directional causality between CEP and CFP for one period time lag signalling possibility of mutual reinforcement in CEP–CFP relationship.

Research limitations/implications

The study has used data for the period 2002–2011 and eco-efficiency metrics – energy, water and material efficiencies due to availability.

Practical implications

The results have implications to both corporate managers as well as policymakers across all industries for emphasizing on eco-efficiency-based (proactive) environmental sustainability initiatives to enhance both financial and environmental bottom lines.

Originality/value

The study contributes to scarce empirical literature analysing the impact of CEP on financial performance. To the best of authors's knowledge, event studies, portfolio studies and perceptual data-based empirical studies exist in India. This study is unique in that it examines long run effect of eco-efficiency-based CEP metrics which is pertinent in a rapidly growing emerging market – India, where, eco-efficiency is considered quintessential for sustainable development.
Moral motives, police legitimacy and acceptance of force
Authors: Silver Jasmine R.
Published: August 2020

Purpose

This study extends legitimacy theory by examining individualizing and binding moral motives and perceptions of police.

Design/methodology/approach

Data are drawn from an online survey of the public (N = 961). OLS regression is used to predict global perceptions of legitimacy, as well as department legitimacy and acceptance of force in an experimental vignette that manipulates procedural justice.

Findings

The binding moral motive is associated with greater global and department legitimacy and acceptance of force. The individualizing moral motive is associated with reduced global legitimacy and acceptance of force, and with department legitimacy when procedural justice is low. Perceptions of legitimacy mediate the effects of the binding moral motive on acceptance of force and of the individualizing moral motive when procedural justice is low.

Research limitations/implications

This study identifies novel antecedents of police legitimacy and acceptance of force (i.e. binding and individualizing moral motives).

Social implications

This study provides insight into public attitudes regarding use of force.

Originality/value

This study is the first to propose and test a link between binding and individualizing moral motives and perceptions of police.
The voicer's reactions to voice: an examination of employee voice on perceived organizational status and subsequent innovative behavior in the workplace
Authors: Chen Liangyong , Li Modan , Wu Yenchun Jim , Chen Chusheng
Published: August 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to explore the voicer's own psychological or behavioral reactions to voice. A framework was proposed to predict how and when employee voice is related to innovative behavior in the workplace based on conservation of resources theory.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from a three-wave survey including 232 employees and their supervisors. Hierarchical multiple regression and PROCESS, a SPSS macro, were used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Employee voice was positively associated with innovative behavior. Perceived organizational status mediated the link between voice and innovative behavior. Meanwhile, performance-goal orientation strengthened the positive voice–perceived organizational status and voice–innovative behavior associations.

Originality/value

This paper extended the authors’ understanding of the outcomes of voice by elucidating that voice could motivate the psychological or behavioral reactions of not only team members but also the voicer himself/herself. In addition, it highlighted the value of performance-goal orientation in strengthening the potentially positive relationship between voice and perceived organizational status. In doing so, the authors identified the unexplored individual-level psychological and behavioral reactions of the voicer himself/herself after speaking up. The present study also provided practical implications by shedding light on measures to promote innovative behavior in the workplace.