bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new family of dissimilarity metrics for discrete character matrices that include inapplicable characters and its importance for disparity studies
Authors: Hopkins Melanie J. , St John Katherine
Published: November 2018

The use of discrete character data for disparity analyses has become more popular, partially due to the recognition that character data describe variation at large taxonomic scales, as well as the increasing availability of both character matrices co-opted from phylogenetic analysis and software tools. As taxonomic scope increases, the need to describe variation leads to some characters that may describe traits not found across all the taxa. In such situations, it is common practice to treat inapplicable characters as missing data when calculating dissimilarity matrices for disparity studies. For commonly used dissimilarity metrics like Wills's GED and Gower's coefficient, this can lead to the reranking of pairwise dissimilarities, resulting in taxa that share more primary character states being assigned larger dissimilarity values than taxa that share fewer. We introduce a family of metrics that proportionally weight primary characters according to the secondary characters that describe them, effectively eliminating this problem, and compare their performance to common dissimilarity metrics and previously proposed weighting schemes. When applied to empirical datasets, we confirm that choice of dissimilarity metric frequently affects the rank order of pairwise distances, differentially influencing downstream macroevolutionary inferences.
Fundamental and realized feeding niche breadths of sexual and asexual stick insects
Authors: Larose Chloé , Parker Darren J. , Schwander Tanja
Published: November 2018

The factors contributing to the maintenance of sex over asexuality in natural populations remain unclear. Ecological divergences between sexual and asexual lineages could help to maintain reproductive polymorphisms, at least transiently, but the consequences of asexuality for the evolution of ecological niches are unknown. Here, we investigated how niche breadths change in transitions from sexual reproduction to asexuality. We used host plant ranges as a proxy to compare the realized feeding niche breadths of five independently derived asexual
Timema
stick insect species and their sexual relatives at both the species and population levels. Asexual species had systematically narrower realized niches than sexual species, though this pattern was not apparent at the population level. To investigate how the narrower realized niches of asexual species arise, we performed feeding experiments to estimate fundamental niche breadths but found no systematic differences between reproductive modes. The narrow realized niches found in asexual species are therefore probably a consequence of biotic interactions such as predation or competition, that constrain realized niche size in asexuals more strongly than in sexuals.
Social living simultaneously increases infection risk and decreases the cost of infection
Authors: Ezenwa Vanessa O. , Worsley-Tonks Katherine E. L.
Published: November 2018

Elevated parasite infection risk is considered to be a near-universal cost of social living. However, living in groups may also provide benefits that reduce the negative impacts of infection. These potential ‘tolerance’ benefits of living socially are theoretically possible, but have rarely been described. In this study, we used an anthelmintic treatment experiment in wild Grant's gazelles (Nanger granti), who are commonly infected with gastrointestinal nematodes (GIN), to show that social living confers both costs and benefits related to GIN parasitism. We show that although larger group size increases GIN infection risk, a key cost of GIN infection—the suppression of food intake—is simultaneously moderated by living in larger groups. Our findings help illuminate the complex role parasites play in the evolution of host social behaviour.
The rise and fall of dialects in northern elephant seals
Authors: Casey Caroline , Reichmuth Colleen , Costa Daniel P. , Le Boeuf Burney
Published: November 2018

Vocal dialects are fundamental to our understanding of the transmission of social behaviours between individuals and populations, however few accounts trace this phenomenon among mammals over time. Northern elephant seals (
Mirounga angustirostris
) provide a rare opportunity to examine the trajectory of dialects in a long-lived mammalian species. Dialects were first documented in the temporal patterns of the stereotyped vocal displays produced by breeding males at four sites in the North Pacific in 1968 and 1969, as the population recovered from extreme exploitation. We evaluated the longevity of these geographical differences by comparing these early recordings to calls recently recorded at these same locations. While the presence of vocal dialects in the original recordings was re-confirmed, geographical differences in vocal behaviour were not found at these breeding rookeries nearly 50 years later. Moreover, the calls of contemporary males displayed more structural complexity after approximately four generations, with substantial between-individual variation and call features not present in the historical data. In the absence of measurable genetic variation in this species—owing to an extreme population bottleneck—a combination of migration patterns and cultural mutation are proposed as factors influencing the fall of dialects and the dramatic increase in call diversity.
Partner switching and metabolic flux in a model cnidarian–dinoflagellate symbiosis
Authors: Matthews Jennifer L. , Oakley Clinton A. , Lutz Adrian , Hillyer Katie E. , Roessner Ute , Grossman Arthur R. , Weis Virginia M. , Davy Simon K.
Published: November 2018

Metabolite exchange is fundamental to the viability of the cnidarian–Symbiodiniaceae symbiosis and survival of coral reefs. Coral holobiont tolerance to environmental change might be achieved through changes in Symbiodiniaceae species composition, but differences in the metabolites supplied by different Symbiodiniaceae species could influence holobiont fitness. Using
13
C stable-isotope labelling coupled to gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, we characterized newly fixed carbon fate in the model cnidarian
Exaiptasia pallida
(Aiptasia) when experimentally colonized with either native
Breviolum minutum
or non-native
Durusdinium trenchii
. Relative to anemones containing
B. minutum
,
D. trenchii
-colonized hosts exhibited a 4.5-fold reduction in
13
C-labelled glucose and reduced abundance and diversity of
13
C-labelled carbohydrates and lipogenesis precursors, indicating symbiont species-specific modifications to carbohydrate availability and lipid storage. Mapping carbon fate also revealed significant alterations to host molecular signalling pathways. In particular,
D. trenchii-
colonized hosts exhibited a 40-fold reduction in
13
C-labelled
scyllo
-inositol, a potential interpartner signalling molecule in symbiosis specificity.
13
C-labelling also highlighted differential antioxidant- and ammonium-producing pathway activities, suggesting physiological responses to different symbiont species. Such differences in symbiont metabolite contribution and host utilization may limit the proliferation of stress-driven symbioses; this contributes valuable information towards future scenarios that select in favour of less-competent symbionts in response to environmental change.
Long-term surveillance defines spatial and temporal patterns implicatingCulex tarsalisas the primary vector of West Nile virus in Iowa, USA
Authors: Dunphy Brendan M. , Kovach Kristofer B. , Gehrke Ella J. , Field Eleanor N. , Rowley Wayne A. , Bartholomay Lyric C. , Smith Ryan C.
Published: November 2018

West Nile virus (WNV) has become the most epidemiologically important mosquito-borne disease in the United States, causing ∼50,000 cases since its introduction in 1999. Transmitted primarily byCulexspecies, WNV transmission requires the complex interplay between bird reservoirs and mosquito vectors, with human cases the result of epizootic spillover. To better understand the intrinsic factors that drive these interactions, we have compiled infection data from sentinel chickens, mosquito vectors, and human cases in Iowa over a 15 year period (2002-2016) to better understand the spatial and temporal components that drive WNV transmission. Supplementing these findings with mosquito abundance, distribution, and host preferences data, we provide strong support thatCulex tarsalisis the most important vector of human WNV infections in the region. Finally, we identify underlying climatic factors (temperature and drought) that are associated with inter-annual trends in WNV intensity. Together, our analysis provides new insights into WNV infection patterns in multiple hosts and highlights the importance of long-term surveillance to understand the dynamics of mosquito-borne-disease transmission.
Rupture of nuclear envelope in starfish oocytes proceeds by F-actin-driven segregation of pore-dense and pore-free membranes
Authors: Wesolowska Natalia , Machado Pedro , Avilov Ivan , Geiss Celina , Kondo Hiroshi , Mori Masashi , Schwab Yannick , Lénárt Péter
Published: November 2018

The nucleus of oocytes, traditionally referred to as the germinal vesicle, is unusually large and its nuclear envelope (NE) is densely packed with nuclear pore complexes (NPCs) stockpiled for embryonic development. We have shown that breakdown of this specialized NE during meiosis of starfish oocytes is mediated by an Arp2/3-nucleated F-actin ‘shell’, in contrast to microtubule-driven tearing in somatic cells. The detailed mechanism of how the cytoskeletal forces disrupt the NE remains poorly understood in any system. Here, we address the mechanism of F-actin-driven NE rupture by using live-cell and correlated super-resolution light and electron microscopy. We show that actin is nucleated within the lamina and sprouts filopodia-like spikes towards the nuclear membranes forcing lamina and nuclear membranes apart. These F-actin spikes protrude pore-free nuclear membranes, whereas the adjoining membrane stretches accumulate packed NPCs associated with the still-intact lamin network. NPC conglomerates sort into a distinct tubular-vesicular membrane network, while breaks appear in pore-free, ER-like regions. Together, our work reveals a novel function for Arp2/3-mediated membrane shaping in NE rupture that is likely to have broad relevance in regulating NE dynamics in diverse other contexts such as nuclear rupture frequently observed in cancer cells.
The protein architecture of the endocytic coat analyzed by FRET
Authors: Skruzny Michal , Pohl Emma , Gnoth Sandina , Malengo Gabriele , Sourjik Victor
Published: November 2018

Endocytosis is a fundamental cellular trafficking pathway, which requires an organized assembly of the multiprotein endocytic coat to pull the plasma membrane into the cell. Although the protein composition of the endocytic coat is known, its functional architecture is not well understood. Here we determine the nanoscale organization of the endocytic coat by FRET microscopy in yeast. We assessed proximities of 18 conserved coat-associated proteins and used clathrin subunits and protein truncations as molecular rulers to obtain a high-resolution protein map of the coat. Furthermore, we followed rearrangements of coat proteins during membrane invagination and their binding dynamics at the endocytic site. We show that the endocytic coat is stratified into several functional layers situated above and below the clathrin lattice with key proteins transversing through the lattice deeply into the cytoplasm. We propose that this conserved design enables an efficient and regulated function of the endocytic coat during endocytosis.
High-frequency actionable pathogenic exome variants in an average-risk cohort
Authors: Rego Shannon , Dagan-Rosenfeld Orit , Zhou Wenyu , Sailani M. Reza , Limcaoco Patricia , Colbert Elizabeth , Avina Monika , Wheeler Jessica , Craig Colleen , Salins Denis , Röst Hannes L. , Dunn Jessilyn , McLaughlin Tracey , Steinmetz Lars M. , Bernstein Jonathan A. , Snyder Michael P.
Published: November 2018

Exome sequencing is increasingly utilized in both clinical and nonclinical settings, but little is known about its utility in healthy individuals. Most previous studies on this topic have examined a small subset of genes known to be implicated in human disease and/or have used automated pipelines to assess pathogenicity of known variants. To determine the frequency of both medically actionable and nonactionable but medically relevant exome findings in the general population we assessed the exomes of 70 participants who have been extensively characterized over the past several years as part of a longitudinal integrated multiomics profiling study. We analyzed exomes by identifying rare likely pathogenic and pathogenic variants in genes associated with Mendelian disease in the Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) database. We then used American College of Medical Genetics (ACMG) guidelines for the classification of rare sequence variants. Additionally, we assessed pharmacogenetic variants. Twelve out of 70 (17%) participants had medically actionable findings in Mendelian disease genes. Five had phenotypes or family histories associated with their genetic variants. The frequency of actionable variants is higher than that reported in most previous studies and suggests added benefit from utilizing expanded gene lists and manual curation to assess actionable findings. A total of 63 participants (90%) had additional nonactionable findings, including 60 who were found to be carriers for recessive diseases and 21 who have increased Alzheimer's disease risk because of heterozygous or homozygous APOE e4 alleles (18 participants had both). Our results suggest that exome sequencing may have considerably more utility for health management in the general population than previously thought.
Characterization of anisotropic pores and spatially oriented precipitates in sintered Mo-base alloys using small-angle neutron scattering
Authors: Karge Lukas , Lang David , Schatte Jürgen , Gilles Ralph , Busch Sebastian , Leibenguth Peter , Clemens Helmut , Petry Winfried
Published: November 2018

Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) is a powerful method for the characterization of materials in the mesoscopic size range. For example, the method can be used to investigate the precipitation mechanisms in powder metallurgically processed materials. As a result of the processing route, the alloy matrix is usually heavily textured. If precipitates have an orientation relationship to the alloy matrix, they can produce an anisotropic scattering pattern showing streaks. The scattering is superimposed by a background with ellipsoidal shape, originating from deformed large-scale structures. The evaluation of such data quickly becomes elaborate and a quantitative analysis of precipitation is difficult. The present work reports a method for treating the anisotropic scattering from such samples. A systematic study of the ellipsoidal background reveals that it originates from uniaxially deformed sinter pores. Irrespective of the degree of deformation during the processing route, SANS shows that sinter pores remain present in the matrix, and their morphology and relative volume fractions are determined. Consequently, their scattering signal can be subtracted to reveal the scattering from aligned precipitates. The method is demonstrated on powder metallurgically produced pure Mo and an Mo–Hf–C alloy.
Mining and community relations in Peru: can agreement be reached?
Authors: Morales Oswaldo , Kleit Andrew N. , Rees Gareth H.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a country’s mixed history of colonialism and cultural heritage as a background to the management of a mining company’s community engagement. Mining-related social conflicts have intensified in Peru as mining expansion challenges Andean people’s traditional livelihoods. It is generally thought that resolving such conflicts requires a set of long-term strategies and engagement.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study has been developed using an inductive methodology through content analysis of newspaper reports, official documents and the academic literature. It follows a complex and evolving situation, blending social and cultural theory and norms with actual events to provide insight into the conflicts’ historical, social and cultural forces.

Findings

Mining conflicts are complex business and strategic problems that call for a more thorough analysis of causal variables and a deeper understanding of the underlying cultural and historical forces. Transactional community engagement responses may not always be adequate to maintain a mining project’s social licence.

Originality/value

Based on the information presented, students can use the case as a means to examine and critique community engagement approaches to social conflict resolution through this summary of a real-life example of social conflict in Peru’s mining industry. The case may also be used as the basis for teaching forward planning and contingency management for long-term projects involving stakeholders and potential conflict. The case has been used as a resource for teaching communications, risk evaluation and community engagement strategies as part of a Master’s in the Energy Sector Management programme in Peru.
Sustainable public value reporting of electric utilities
Authors: Traxler Albert Anton , Greiling Dorothea
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the status quo of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI)-based sustainable public value (SPV) reporting by electric utilities. Furthermore, the study attempts to find out whether a stock exchange listing and/or a public ownership are positively associated with electric utilities’ reporting regarding their contributions to a sustainable development (SD) or not.

Design/methodology/approach

An empirical analysis of sustainability reports published by electric utilities from 28 different countries all over the world is carried out. The investigation is based on a documentary analysis of 83 GRI G4 reports.

Findings

The findings show that electric utilities’ coverage of GRI indicators of the electric utilities sector disclosures varies between, as well as within, the different categories of the GRI guidelines and that the coverage of sector-specific indicators is often lacking behind the general coverage rates. Furthermore, the study reveals that a stock exchange listing is positively associated with electric utilities’ GRI-based SPV reporting. In contrast, public ownership does not show a significant association.

Originality/value

Electric utilities have a significant influence on SD. They operate in a regulated environment that is targeted at utilizing electric utilities for economic and environmental public policy objectives. Against that background, the study discusses which issues of SPV creation are reported by electric utilities that use the GRI guidelines and therefore brings together the public value (PV) and the sustainability community.
Reactions to the national living wage in hospitality
Authors: Walmsley Andreas , Partington Shobana , Armstrong Rebecca , Goodwin Harold
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore reactions to the introduction by the UK Government of the National Living Wage (NLW) in the UK hospitality sector and consider implications for the status of employee relations.

Design/methodology/approach

In-depth interviews were conducted with senior industry representatives of the hospitality sector in the UK.

Findings

Concerns surrounding an increase in the wage bill, in maintaining pay differentials and in shifting employment to youth were confirmed. Managers expressed ambiguity in face of the legislation, offering agreement at a personal level with the rationale underpinning the NLW, but also expressing concern about impacts on their businesses.

Research limitations/implications

This exploratory study offers the basis for further research in understanding the foundation of employee relations in hospitality.

Social implications

A reconsideration of the nature of the employment relationship is key at a time of growing concerns about the business-society relationship.

Originality/value

Uses reactions to the UK Government’s stipulation of a NLW to explore the basis of employee relations in the hospitality sector. This is timely where work to date in hospitality has largely focussed on symptoms but not causes of poor working conditions.
Effect of magnetic field-dependent thermal conductivity on natural convection of magnetic nanofluid inside a square enclosure
Authors: Hajiyan Mohammadhossein , Mahmud Shohel , Biglarbegian Mohammad , Abdullah Hussein A. , Chamkha A.
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the convective heat transfer of magnetic nanofluid (MNF) inside a square enclosure under uniform magnetic fields considering nonlinearity of magnetic field-dependent thermal conductivity.

Design/methodology/approach

The properties of the MNF (Fe3O4+kerosene) were described by polynomial functions of magnetic field-dependent thermal conductivity. The effect of the transverse magnetic field (0 < H < 105), Hartmann Number (0 < Ha < 60), Rayleigh number (10 <Ra <105) and the solid volume fraction (0 < φ < 4.7%) on the heat transfer performance inside the enclosed space was examined. Continuity, momentum and energy equations were solved using the finite element method.

Findings

The results show that the Nusselt number increases when the Rayleigh number increases. In contrast, the convective heat transfer rate decreases when the Hartmann number increases due to the strong magnetic field which suppresses the buoyancy force. Also, a significant improvement in the heat transfer rate is observed when the magnetic field is applied and φ = 4.7% (I = 11.90%, I = 16.73%, I = 10.07% and I = 12.70%).

Research limitations/implications

The present numerical study was carried out for a steady, laminar and two-dimensional flow inside the square enclosure. Also, properties of the MNF are assumed to be constant (except thermal conductivity) under magnetic field.

Practical implications

The results can be used in thermal storage and cooling of electronic devices such as lithium-ion batteries during charging and discharging processes.

Originality/value

The accuracy of results and heat transfer enhancement having magnetic field-field-dependent thermal conductivity are noticeable. The results can be used for different applications to improve the heat transfer rate and enhance the efficiency of a system.
Robust skewness dispersion control charts
Authors: Rizwan Iqbal Muhammad , Hassan Sajdah
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the scope of robust dispersion control charts in a distribution-free environment, which is a specific case of non-normal control charts. These control charts are skewness-based structures designed to monitor skewed-type processes whilst equally performing under symmetric processes. Moreover, the choice of a suitable control chart for a particular non-normal situation is also suggested.

Design/methodology/approach

The probability control limits approach is considered as an alternative way to determine the skewness-based structure of dispersion control charts. The proposals of five robust and two conventional Shewhart-type dispersion control charts are suggested as efficient competitors of skewness correction (SC) dispersion control charts. The evaluation of robust proposals and competing dispersion control charts is done through false alarm rate (FAR) and probability to signal (PTS) measures.

Findings

The proposed dispersion control charts are found robust and efficient alternatives of SC dispersion control charts in both normal and non-normal distributions. The FARs and PTS properties of proposed control charts are impressive in all studied cases, and a real-data example also verifies the dominance of proposed control charts.

Originality/value

Conventional dispersion control charts quickly lose their efficiency as underlying process distribution deviates from normality; however, robust control charts emerge as most suitable candidates in such situations. This paper proposes the idea of robust dispersion control charts under a distribution-free structure for the skewed-type process, which is not yet explored.
Customer satisfaction and its measurement in Islamic banking sector: a revisit and update
Authors: Anouze Abdel Latef M. , Alamro Ahmed Salameh , Awwad Abdulkareem Salameh
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to answer the following questions: How to measure customer satisfaction from the provisioning service of both: Islamic and Conventional banks? Can we trust one tool to measure such satisfaction or both banks are different identities and there is a need for separate measurement tool? What is the relationship between banks operating style (Islamic or Conventional) and bank performance?

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey design was conducted to analyze a sample of customers. A total of 480 Jordanian participants were included in the study.

Findings

The results of confirmatory factor analysis show that the most important drivers of customer satisfaction are Sharia’ compliance, complaints, pricing and convenience, whereas the least important drivers are e-banking, the perception of employees, enjoyment and tangibles. Also, the result of the multi-group analysis shows that the significant impacts of all drivers on customer satisfaction differ from Islamic banks to Conventional banks except for the enjoyment. The significant effects of customer satisfaction on bank performance also differ from Islamic to Conventional banks.

Research limitations/implications

The result is limited to the selected sample, and hence, future research in other countries should contribute to a better understanding of the impact of customer satisfaction relationship on bank success or performance.

Practical implications

This study provides a useful information for bank managers on the main driver of customer satisfaction and performance.

Originality/value

This study is intended to add to the existing literature in three ways: There is a lack of studies on the main drivers of customer satisfaction, especially those based on a consumer’s decision-making process in Arabic countries like Jordan. This study broadens the scope by testing the proposed model using data from a sample of consumers in Jordan. This study serves to propose and validate the drivers that influence customer satisfaction and bank performance and elucidate the manner of their influence, to help with the development of more effective business strategies.
Profit, poverty and public care: austerity’s charity work
Authors: Lord Gemma
Published: November 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore empirically the dynamics by which austerity, a “moment” of neoliberal policy reform enacted through strategies of market-driven governance (MDG), provides the conditions for the insertion of capitalist-market logics into the charity sector. Demonstrating altered funding structures permits a political and socioeconomic reconfiguration of poverty, it asks what this means for charity work.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws upon data from 12 months ethnographic fieldwork in a charity in England. It explores the permeation of competition and profit as logics of capitalist-markets.

Findings

The paper finds that capitalist-market rationales are enacted within the organization. Charity is subordinated to business and profit permeates the site, thus changing the way that poverty is acted upon. In this context, workers are engaged in “labors of negotiation” which ultimately impede a reconfiguration of poverty into profit via their everyday situated labor. This reveals the symptomatic activities of upholding an ethos of public care in the production of charity work and within a context of MDG.

Originality/value

This paper makes an empirical contribution to the debate on contemporary charity working under austerity. It makes an important conceptual contribution by adding to the emerging literature on MDG (Varga, 2016); by repositioning du Gay’s (2003) analysis of public reform into alternative empirical and analytical conditions; and by building upon Adams’ (2013) work around the replacement of an ethos of public care with one of private profit.
A novel 3D shape reconstruction method based on maximum correntropy Kalman filtering
Authors: Chen Man , Zhong Yong , Li Zhendong , Wu Jin
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate a novel shape from focus (SFF) algorithm based on maximum correntropy Kalman filtering (SFF-MCKF) for solving the problem that traditional SFF methods are weak in de-noising and spatial continuity.

Design/methodology/approach

To be specific, it was first assumed that the predicted depth of next pixel is equal to the depth of the current pixel according to spatial continuity. Besides, the observing data are derived from the estimation of traditional SFF and the corresponding covariance of noise is adaptively calculated by the entropy along the optical axis. Finally, to enhance robustness, we systematically conduct MCKF iteratively in four transfer directions that are 0°, 90°, 45° and −45°, respectively.

Findings

The experimental results indicate that the robustness of SFF-MCKF facing noises as well as the spatial continuity is better than that of the existing representative ones.

Research limitations/implications

As the proposed method is aimed at precision objects, high demand is for experimental device. Unstable device unregister the source images, which is unfavorable for observing data.

Originality/value

SFF-MCKF can be applied to many precision object measurements without significant drifts, such as the surface reconstruction of metal objects and electronic components. Besides, the computation cost is low, and SFF-MCKF has a wide range of real-time industrial applications.
Institutional CSR: provision of public goods in developing economies
Authors: Bradly Andrew , Nathan Ganesh
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the concept of institutional CSR and explains its antecedents, key characteristics and the potential implications arising from private firms providing public goods and services in developing economies.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper conceptualises institutional CSR using key insights from institutional theory along with legitimacy theory. It integrates the antecedents of CSR at the state and society levels and shows how firms may respond to these antecedents within an integrated institutional CSR framework.

Findings

The paper derives six distinct characteristics of institutional CSR and presents a conceptual model to inform how institutional CSR occurs in practice.

Practical implications

This paper brings to the attention the need for private firms that undertake institutional CSR activities to engage more closely with the state to ensure better societal outcomes.

Social implications

The paper identifies the importance of resource coordination between the state and the firm for the efficient and effective provision of public goods and services. Without such coordination, moral hazard, resource imbalances and long-term viability concerns pose a risk for institutional CSR activities. It furthermore highlights important implications for societal governance.

Originality/value

The paper makes an important contribution to the literature on CSR practices within developing economies by conceptualising institutional CSR in providing public goods and services.
Corporate governance and sustainability reporting in the Australian resources industry: an empirical analysis
Authors: Ong Tricia , Djajadikerta Hadrian Geri
Published: November 2018

Purpose

This study aims to evaluate the impact of corporate governance on sustainability reporting by investigating companies operating in the Australian resources industry.

Design/methodology/approach

This study investigates the relationships between the total sustainability disclosures and, separately, the three aspects of sustainability disclosures – economic, environmental and social – and corporate governance mechanisms proxy by various attributes of board composition. The sustainability disclosures were scored using Ong et al.’s (2016) index.

Findings

Significant positive correlations were found between the extent of sustainability disclosures and the proportion of independent directors, multiple directorships and female directors on the board.

Originality/value

Unlike traditional content analysis methods, this study adopts a newly developed Global Reporting Initiatives-based reporting index that identifies companies with good sustainability performance by aligning companies’ disclosures to their sustainability performance.
The rebranding of VoiceStream to T-Mobile
Authors: Allred Anthony , King Skyler , Amos Clinton
Published: November 2018

Synopsis

VoiceStream was a strong brand within the digital wireless communications industry at the time CEO Robert Dodson led the company. It had a loyal following of customers and a strong reputation for value. Despite pushback from senior management, CEO Robert Dotson made the decision to undergo a rebranding strategy during a period of declining revenue and growth. As VoiceStream transitioned to T-Mobile, it had initial success, but faced the challenge of how to position the brand long term.

Research methodology

This case study was written with the historical background of a well-known company and traces key decisions made during the company’s rebranding transition. This case comes complete with insights from then current CEO, Robert Dotson.

Relevant courses and levels

This case is suitable for undergraduate and graduate courses in marketing, management or strategy, where students are studying brand management. Additionally, this case will be valuable for courses that include advanced branding strategies such as rebranding. This case could also be used for discussion in positioning and advertising techniques. This case includes, via in-depth interviews, critical strategic insights from CEO Robert Dotson. The case illustrates some of the major opportunities and threats associated with the VoiceStream/T-Mobile rebranding strategy.
From start-up to expansion: Vittrium Building Products
Authors: Krusekopf Charles , de Koning Alice , Wilson-Mah Rebecca Frances
Published: November 2018

Synopsis

After three years in business together, Des Carpenter and Kees Schaddelee had a decision to make – should they double the size of their location, based on the opportunities and competitive threats they perceived? The startup phase took longer than expected and access to distribution channels was more difficult than expected. Nonetheless, the business gained traction with online sales that proved the concept of custom-made counters using EnvironiteTM technology was viable. As they prepared to expand the business, the owner-managers needed to decide on a growth strategy that would let them leverage their strengths. In analyzing their successes so far, they needed to evaluate their business model including their product line, target markets, marketing strategy (including the pricing strategy, product lines, and channels of distribution) and operations.

Research methodology

Data were collected through interviews with business owners and a review of company documents, production processes and the company website.

Relevant courses and levels

This case exercise will suit strategy and entrepreneurship students at both the senior undergraduate level and graduate level. The case discussion will ask students to consider operations, supply chain management, marketing and other issues, all through the lens of a holistic vision for the company. This case may be taught as an example of a growth strategy or a business model in a capstone business strategy course or higher level entrepreneurship course. It is appropriate for both undergraduate seniors and graduate students.

Theoretical bases

This case may be taught as an example of a growth strategy or a business model in a capstone business strategy course or higher-level entrepreneurship course. The case may be used to help students understand external and internal analysis, identifying the sources of value creation and competitive advantage, and creating an appropriate strategy for growth. It provides a rich context to discuss and apply the following conceptual tools: the application of a value chain analysis and the application of a business model canvas (key partners, key activities, key resources, value propositions, customer relationships, distribution channels, customer segments, cost structure and revenue streams). The case may also be used to reinforce the applications of growth phases in a young firm that are part of the entrepreneurial setting, for example, value proposition, ideal customer, revenue streams and key performance indicators.
Scaling functional traits to ecosystem processes: Towards a mechanistic understanding in peat mosses
Authors: Mazziotta Adriano , Granath Gustaf , Rydin Håkan , Bengtsson Fia , Norberg Jon
Published: November 2018

The role of trait trade‐offs and environmental filtering in explaining the variability in functional traits and ecosystem processes has received considerable attention for vascular plants but less so for bryophytes. Thus, we do not know whether the same forces also shape the phenotypic variability of bryophytes. Here, we assess how environmental gradients and trade‐offs shape functional traits and subsequently ecosystem processes for peat mosses (Sphagnum), a globally important plant genus for carbon accumulation. We used piecewise Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to understand how environmental gradients influence vital processes across levels of biological organization.

We gathered data on functional traits for 15 globally important Sphagnum species covering a wide range of ecological preferences. Phenotypes lie along well‐established axes of the plant economic spectrum characterizing trade‐offs between vital physiological functions. Using SEM, we clarified the mechanisms of trait covariation and scaling to ecosystem processes. We tested whether peat mosses, like vascular plants, constrain trait variability between a fast turnover strategy based on resource acquisition via fast traits and processes, and a strategy of resource conservation, via slow traits and processes.

We parameterized a process‐based model estimating ecosystem processes linking environmental drivers with architectural and functional traits. In our SEM approach the amount of variance explained varied substantially (0.29 ≤ R2 ≤ 0.82) among traits and processes in Sphagnum, and the model could predict some of them with high to intermediate accuracy for an independent dataset. R2 variability was mainly explained by traits and species identity, and poorly by environmental filtering.

Some Sphagnum species avoid the stress caused by periodic desiccation in hollows via resource acquisition based on fast photosynthesis and growth, while other species are adapted to grow high above the water‐table on hummocks by slow physiological traits and processes to conserve resources.

Synthesis.We contribute to a unified theory generating individual fitness, canopy dynamics and ecosystem processes from trait variation. As for vascular plants, the functional traits in the Sphagnum economic spectrum are linked into an integrated phenotypic network partly filtered by the environment and shaped by trade‐offs in resource acquisition and conservation.
The Nicaraguan Diaspora in Costa Rica: Schools and the Disruption of Transnational Social Fields
Authors: Solano‐Campos Ana
Published: November 2018

This ethnographic case study explores Nicaragua–Costa Rica cross‐border dynamics, one of the most important South‐South migration flows in the Central American region. I identify practices that prevent Nicaraguan children in a Costa Rican classroom from consolidating transnational identities and networks during the school day. Specifically, I examine three types of disruptions—historical, social, and linguistic—as well as various ways in which students and teachers contest those disruptions.
Adhesion of silicone oil and emulsification: an in vitro assessment using a microfluidic device and ‘Eye‐on‐a‐Chip’
Authors: Lu Yongjie , Chan Yau Kei , Lau Long Hei , Chao Youchuang , Shih Kendrick Co , Lai Shiu Ming , Wong David , Shum Ho Cheung
Published: November 2018

Purpose

Silicone oil (SiO) with additives of high‐molecular‐weight (HMW) SiO molecules, eases both the injection and removal. When used inside an eye, it remains unclear how increasing extensional viscosity of SiO might reduce emulsification. Using cell‐lined models, this study aims to understand the reason why SiO with HMW is less prone to emulsification.

Methods

The adhesion of SiO was studied and recorded in a cell‐coated microchannel by optical microscopy. The resistance of SiO against emulsification was tested on another cell‐coated eye‐on‐a‐chip platform, which was subject to simulated saccadic eye movements, for 4 days. Silicone oil (SiO) candidates with HMW, SiOHMW2000 and SiOHMW5000, and their counterparts SiO2000 and SiO5000 without HMW, were tested. The quantity of the SiO emulsified droplets formed was assessed daily by optical microscopy.

Results

When flowing in the microchannel, SiO adheres on the cell‐coated substrate. The number of droplets is generally lower in SiO with HMW than their counterparts. At the end of the experiment, the average numbers of droplets in SiO2000 (29.1 ± 41.0) and SiO5000 (9.1 ± 19.5) are higher than those in SiOHMW2000 (6.0 ± 4.5) and SiOHMW5000 (5.6 ± 4.1).

Conclusion

A new mechanism of emulsification of SiO is proposed: SiO adheres to ocular tissue to form emulsified droplets. The presence of HMW, which increases the extensional viscosity, may resist the break‐up of SiO from the substrate to form emulsified droplets. When tested in a physiologically representative platform, the use of HMW in SiO generally reduces the number of droplets formed in vitro.
CD99 expression is strongly associated with clinical outcome in children with B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Chen Dongfeng , Camponeschi Alessandro , Wu Qingqing , Gerasimcik Natalija , Li Huiqi , Shen Xue , Tan Yujie , Sjögren Helene , Nordlund Jessica , Lönnerholm Gudmar , Abrahamsson Jonas , Fogelstrand Linda , Mårtensson Inga‐Lill
Published: November 2018

Our study aimed to determine the expression pattern and clinical relevance of CD99 in paediatric B‐cell precursor acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (BCP‐ALL). Our findings demonstrate that high expression levels of CD99 are mainly found in high‐risk BCP‐ALL, e.g. BCR‐ABL1 and CRLF2Re/Hi, and that high CD99 mRNA levels are strongly associated with a high frequency of relapse, high proportion of positive for minimal residual disease at day 29 and poor overall survival in paediatric cohorts, which indicate that CD99 is a potential biomarker for BCP‐ALL.
Creativity and involvement in art in different types of synaesthesia
Authors: Lunke Katrin , Meier Beat
Published: November 2018

The aim of the present study was to test the relationship between different types of synaesthesia and their involvement in art, creative, and visual abilities. We tested 20 grapheme‐colour, 18 sound‐colour, 19 grapheme‐colour‐and‐sound‐colour, 20 sequence‐space synaesthetes, and the same number of controls matched by age, gender, and education. We assessed the number of artistic professions, involvement in art, and the performance in psychometric tests of divergent and convergent creativity, as well as visual and visuo‐spatial abilities. Results show a higher prevalence of artists among synaesthetes, especially sound‐colour synaesthetes. Sound‐colour synaesthetes also showed a higher involvement in artistic activities overall while sequence‐space synaesthetes showed higher involvement in visual art. Only grapheme‐colour‐and‐sound‐colour synaesthetes showed significantly higher divergent creativity compared to matched controls. Additionally, overall, synaesthetes scored higher in visuo‐spatial abilities (i.e., mental rotation). For synaesthetes and controls, visuo‐spatial abilities correlated with divergent creativity. We discuss that synaesthetes’ higher involvement in art is not necessarily reflected in their basic creative abilities.
A quarter century of system justification theory: Questions, answers, criticisms, and societal applications
Authors: Jost John T.
Published: November 2018

A theory of system justification was proposed 25 years ago by Jost and Banaji (1994, Br. J. Soc. Psychol., 33, 1) in the British Journal of Social Psychology to explain ‘the participation by disadvantaged individuals and groups in negative stereotypes of themselves' and the phenomenon of outgroup favouritism. The scope of the theory was subsequently expanded to account for a much wider range of outcomes, including appraisals of fairness, justice, legitimacy, deservingness, and entitlement; spontaneous and deliberate social judgements about individuals, groups, and events; and full‐fledged political and religious ideologies. According to system justification theory, people are motivated (to varying degrees, depending upon situational and dispositional factors) to defend, bolster, and justify aspects of existing social, economic, and political systems. Engaging in system justification serves the palliative function of increasing satisfaction with the status quo and addresses underlying epistemic, existential, and relational needs to reduce uncertainty, threat, and social discord. This article summarizes the major tenets of system justification theory, reviews some of the empirical evidence supporting it, answers new (and old) questions and criticisms, and highlights areas of societal relevance and directions for future research.
Bisphosphonic acids and related compounds as inhibitors of nucleotide‐ and polyphosphate‐processing enzymes: A PPK1 and PPK2 case study
Authors: Burda‐Grabowska Małgorzata , Macegoniuk Katarzyna , Flick Robert , Nocek Boguslaw P. , Joachimiak Andrzej , Yakunin Alexander F. , Mucha Artur , Berlicki Łukasz
Published: November 2018

Bisphosphonic acids, which are structural analogs of pyrophosphate, constitute a class of compounds with very high potential for the construction of effective inhibitors of enzymes operating on oligo‐ and polyphosphates. The bisphosphonate‐based methodology was applied for the discovery of inhibitors of two families of polyphosphate kinases (PPK1 and PPK2). Screening of thirty‐two structurally diverse bisphosphonic acids and related compounds revealed several micromolar inhibitors of both enzymes. Importantly, selectivity of bisphosphonates could be achieved by application of the appropriate side chain.