bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zinc arrests axonal transport and displaces tau, doublecortin, and MAP2C from microtubules
Authors: Minckley Taylor F. , Salvagio Lyndsie A. , Fudge Dylan H. , Verhey Kristen , Markus Steven M. , Qin Yan
Published: December 2021

Accurate delivery of cargo over long distances through axonal transport requires precise spatiotemporal regulation and relies on microtubule function. Here we discover that Zn2+ influx via depolarization inhibits axonal transport. Zn2+-mediated inhibition is nonselective for cargo. Elevated Zn2+ (IC50 » 5-10 nM) reduces both lysosomal and mitochondrial motility in primary rat hippocampal neurons and HeLa cells. We further reveal that Zn2+ directly binds to microtubules, inhibiting movement of motor proteins (kinesin and dynein) and promoting detachment of neuronal-specific MAPs (Tau, DCX, and MAP2C). We finally provide a detailed model of microtubule interactions with Tau, DCX, dynein, kinesin, and predict microtubule Zn2+ binding sites. Our results reveal that Zn2+ acts to inhibit the microtubule binding of tau, DCX, and MAP2C and can directly block the progression of motor proteins on microtubules. Intraneuronal Zn2+, therefore, is a critical signal for regulating axonal transport and microtubulebased processes.
Structure-driven effects on genomic DNA damage propensity at G-quadruplex sites
Authors: Abdullah Adib A , Feng Claudia , Pflughaupt Patrick , Sahakyan Aleksandr B.
Published: December 2021

Our genome contains about half a million sites capable of forming G-quadruplex (G4) structures. Such structural formations, often localised at important regulatory loci, have high capability of altering the predisposition of corresponding genomic spans to endogenous and exogenous DNA damage. In this work, we devised an approach to systematically enrich and zoom onto structure-driven effects on the propensity to undergo 9 types of DNA damage: ultraviolet radiation-induced pyrimidine-pyrimidone (6-4) photoproduct PP and cyclobutane pyrimidine dimer CPD couplings (two dyad-based subtypes in each), cisplatin-mediated G-G crosslinks, reactive oxygen species induced 8-oxoguanine damage, DNA fragmentation upon natural decay and fossilisation, breakages from artificial enzymatic cleavage and ultrasound sonication. Our results indicate that the structural effects on DNA damageability at G4 sites are not a simple combination of shielding (G4 strand) and de-shielding (opposite strand) against damaging factors, and the outcomes have different patterns and variation from one damage type to another, highly dependent on the G4 strength and relative strand localisation. The results are accompanied by electronic structure calculations, detailed structural parallels and considerations.
Enhanced top-down sensorimotor processing in somatic anxiety
Authors: Bouziane Ismail , Das Moumita , Friston Karl J , Caballero-Gaudes Cesar , Ray Dipanjan
Published: December 2021

Functional neuroimaging research on anxiety has traditionally focused on brain networks associated with the psychological aspects of anxiety. Here, instead, we target the somatic aspects of anxiety. Motivated by the growing appreciation that top-down cortical processing plays a crucial role in perception and action, we used resting-state functional MRI data from the Human Connectome Project and Dynamic Causal Modeling (DCM) to characterize effective connectivity among hierarchically organized regions in the exteroceptive, interoceptive, and motor cortices. In people with high (fear-related) somatic arousal, top-down effective connectivity was enhanced in all three networks: an observation that corroborates well with the phenomenology of anxiety. The anxiety-associated changes in connectivity were sufficiently reliable to predict whether a new participant has mild or severe somatic anxiety. Interestingly, the increase in top-down connections to sensorimotor cortex were not associated with fear affect scores, thus establishing the (relative) dissociation between somatic and cognitive dimensions of anxiety. Overall, enhanced top-down effective connectivity in sensorimotor cortices emerges as a promising and quantifiable candidate marker of trait somatic anxiety.
A family of fitness landscapes modeled through gene regulatory networks
Authors: Yang Chia-Hung , Scarpino Samuel V.
Published: December 2021

Over 100 years, Fitness landscapes have been a powerful metaphor for understanding the evolution of biological systems. These landscapes describe how genotypes are connected to each other and are related according to relative fitness. Despite the high dimensionality of such real-world landscapes, empirical studies are often limited in their ability to quantify the fitness of different genotypes beyond point mutations, while theoretical works attempt statistical/mechanistic models to reason the overall landscape structure. However, most classical fitness landscape models overlook an instinctive constraint that genotypes leading to the same phenotype almost certainly share the same fitness value, since the information of genotype-phenotype mapping is rarely incorporated. Here, we investigate fitness landscape models through the lens of Gene Regulatory Networks (GRNs), where the regulatory products are computed from multiple genes and collectively treated as the phenotypes. With the assumption that regulatory mediators/products exhibit binary states, we prove topographical features of GRN fitness landscape models such as accessibility and connectivity insensitive to the choice of the fitness function. Furthermore, using graph theory, we deduce a mesoscopic structure underlying GRN fitness landscape models that retains necessary information for evolutionary dynamics with minimal complexity. We also propose an algorithm to construct such a mesoscopic backbone which is more efficient than the brute-force approach. Combined, this work provides mathematical implications for fitness landscape models with high-dimensional genotype-phenotype mapping, yielding the potential to elucidate empirical landscapes and their resulting evolutionary processes in a manner complementary to existing computational studies.
Imaging Three-Dimensional Brain Organoid Architecture from Meso- to Nanoscale across Development
Authors: Rodriguez-Gatica Juan Eduardo , Iefremova Vira , Sokhranyaeva Liubov , Yeung Si Wah Christina Au , Breitkreuz Yannik , Brüstle Oliver , Schwarz Martin Karl , Kubitscheck Ulrich
Published: December 2021

Organoids are human stem cell-derived three-dimensional cultures offering a new avenue to model human development and disease. Brain organoids allow studying various aspects of human brain development in the finest details in vitro in a tissue-like context. However, spatial relationships of subcellular structures such as synaptic contacts between distant neurons are hardly accessible by conventional light microscopy. This limitation can be overcome by systems that quickly image the entire organoid in three dimensions and in super-resolution. To that end we have developed a setup combining tissue expansion and light sheet fluorescence microscopy for imaging and quantifying diverse spatial parameters during organoid development. This technique enables zooming from a mesoscopic perspective into super-resolution within a single imaging session, thus revealing cellular and subcellular structural details in three spatial dimensions, including unequivocal delineation of mitotic cleavage planes as well as the alignment of pre- and postsynaptic proteins. We expect light sheet fluorescence expansion microscopy (LSFEM) to facilitate qualitative and quantitative assessment of organoids in developmental and disease-related studies.

Summary statement

The combination of light sheet fluorescence and expansion microscopy enables imaging of mature human brain organoids in toto and down to synaptic resolution
Time is of the essence: the molecular mechanisms of primary microcephaly
Authors: Phan Thao P. , Holland Andrew J.
Published: December 2021

Primary microcephaly is a brain growth disorder characterized by a severe reduction of brain size and thinning of the cerebral cortex. Many primary microcephaly mutations occur in genes that encode centrosome proteins, highlighting an important role for centrosomes in cortical development. Centrosomes are microtubule organizing centers that participate in several processes, including controlling polarity, catalyzing spindle assembly in mitosis, and building primary cilia. Understanding which of these processes are altered and how these disruptions contribute to microcephaly pathogenesis is a central unresolved question. In this review, we revisit the different models that have been proposed to explain how centrosome dysfunction impairs cortical development. We review the evidence supporting a unified model in which centrosome defects reduce cell proliferation in the developing cortex by prolonging mitosis and activating a mitotic surveillance pathway. Finally, we also extend our discussion to centrosome-independent microcephaly mutations, such as those involved in DNA replication and repair.
Consumption values, anxiety and organic food purchasing behaviour considering the moderating role of sustainable consumption attitude
Authors: Cao Dayu , Zheng Yan , Liu Chunnian , Yao Xiaoying , Chen Shiyue
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to identify and describe the relationships among different consumption values, anxiety and organic food purchase behaviour considering the moderating role of sustainable consumption attitude from the viewpoint of the theory of consumption values.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using a structured questionnaire survey in first-tier cities in China. A total of 344 consumers of organic foods participated in the study. Structural equation modelling and hierarchical regression analysis were employed for data analysis.

Findings

The results indicated the significant association of functional value-price, emotional value, social value and epistemic value with purchase behaviour. Anxiety had a positively significant influence on functional (quality), functional (price), emotional, social, conditional and epistemic values. In addition, the results indicated that functional (price), emotional, social and epistemic values played mediating effects in the relationships between anxiety and purchase behaviour. Moreover, sustainable consumption attitude had a positive moderating effect on functional value-price and purchase behaviour.

Practical implications

The research not only provides novel and original insights for understanding organic consumption but also provides a reference for organic retailers to develop sales strategies and policymakers to formulate policies to guide organic consumption that are conducive to promoting sustainable consumption.

Originality/value

For the first time, this research attempts to explore the relationships among different consumption values, anxiety and purchase behaviour. It may improve the gap of inconsistency in attitude and behaviour in organic consumption, and provide a new perspective for the study of organic consumption.
A bibliometric analysis of greenwashing research: a closer look at agriculture, food industry and food retail
Authors: Montero-Navarro Antonio , González-Torres Thais , Rodríguez-Sánchez José-Luis , Gallego-Losada Rocio
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper aims at providing an overview and synthesis of the existing body of knowledge about greenwashing. Special attention is paid to the articles directly linked with agriculture, food industry and food retail.

Design/methodology/approach

A bibliometric analysis was performed over 351 documents extracted from the WoS database, using SciMAT and VOSviewer software programs.

Findings

Three periods in the academic literature about greenwashing can be distinguished: ground-setting (2003–2010), trail-blazing (2011–2015) and remarkable growth (2016–2020). Along this evolution, a body of knowledge which stemmed from the literature about CSR has achieved a major development, deploying different research lines such as stakeholders' management, marketing and communication and audit. A specific analysis of the academic literature about greenwashing in agriculture, food industry and food retail has been carried out, showing a need for further development.

Social implications

The development of scientific knowledge about greenwashing puts this social claim on the spotlight of business management studies, helping to fight greenwashing and, this way, to reduce the environmental impact of corporate activities. Studying greenwashing will help to reduce its frequency and, therefore, heal the planet.

Originality/value

Some previous studies have provided systematic reviews of the literature using different approaches, but they did not untangle the intellectual structure and the evolution of the body of research about greenwashing. This article originally provides a thorough analysis of these aspects, as well as a closer look at the impact of greenwashing practices in the academic literature regarding agriculture, food industry and food retail.
Green human resource management and environmental performance: the role of green supply chain management practices
Authors: Saeed Amer , Rasheed Fatima , Waseem Maimoona , Tabash Mosab I.
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This research scrutinizes the connection between green human resources management (GHRM) and environmental performance (EP) through mediating role of green supply chain management (GSCM).

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual prototype developed in this research was originated from familiarized literature review on the connection between EP, GSCM and GHRM. Moreover, this research employed a quantitative approach through conducting interviews and questionnaires for statistics assortment from the following entities: chief executes, general managers, directors, human resource managers, logistics managers, operation managers and supply chain managers in the manufacturing sector in Pakistan. The partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was considered for statistical exploration by accepting 269 useable responses.

Findings

The research asserts significant encouragement of GHRM and GSCM on EP. Moreover, GSCM arbitrates significantly between GHRM and EP.

Research limitations/implications

This research recommends policies to manufacturing concerns that they should work to stabilize ecological sustainability by developing maximum GHRM and GSCM.

Originality/value

This research comes up with an innovative variables structure which has never been adopted before in the manufacturing area of Punjab in Pakistan.
Do women on corporate boardrooms have an impact on tax avoidance? The mediating role of corporate social responsibility
Authors: Dakhli Anissa
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the direct and indirect relationship between board gender diversity and corporate tax avoidance using corporate social responsibility (CSR) as a mediating variable.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a panel dataset of 200 French firms listed during 2007–2018 period. The direct and indirect effects between board gender diversity (BGD) and tax avoidance were tested by using structural equation model analysis.

Findings

The results indicate that the presence of women on corporate boardrooms negatively affects tax avoidance. The greater the proportion of women in boards, the lower the likelihood of tax avoidance practice. In the mediation test, CSR appears to partially mediate the link between women on boards and corporate tax avoidance. Additional analysis shows that the social dimension of CSR produces this mediating effect.

Practical implications

The results have practical implications for companies in regulating the composition of their boards. To benefit from diversity, firms have to increase women‘s percentage in their boards of directors. Also, investors are encouraged to pay attention to the percentage of female directors when investing and purchasing shares.

Social implications

This study proved empirically that the higher proportion of female directors significantly reduces the possibility of tax avoidance either directly or indirectly through enhancing CSR performance. The findings show that firms with gender diversified boards are more likely to get involved in CSR for hedging against the potential consequences of aggressive tax avoidance practices. In light of the above results, firms are well-advised to strongly apply the policy encouraging or mandating women as board members to take advantage of their expected benefits.

Originality/value

The originality of this paper consists in proposing the establishment of both direct and indirect relationships between BGD and corporate tax avoidance through CSR. Unlike prior studies that have been examining the direct relationship between corporate governance mechanisms and corporate tax avoidance, this study went further to investigate the indirect relationship between these two constructs. This study also differs from prior studies as it examines the effect of BGD on each of constituting pillars of CSR, namely, environmental, social and governance. To date, an extensive part of CSR research has used the combined score of CSR, but the effects on different CSR pillars remain little investigated.
Linear interpolated multi-objective economic emission scheduling using grey wolf optimizer: a strategic balance and solution with diverse load pattern
Authors: Kadali Kalyan Sagar , Veeraswamy Moorthy , Ponnusamy Marimuthu , Jawalkar Viswanatha Rao
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the cost-effective and environmentally sustainable operation of thermal power systems to allocate optimum active power generation resultant for a feasible solution in diverse load patterns using the grey wolf optimization (GWO) algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

The economic dispatch problem is formulated as a bi-objective optimization subjected to several operational and practical constraints. A normalized price penalty factor approach is used to convert these objectives into a single one. The GWO algorithm is adopted as an optimization tool in which the exploration and exploitation process in search space is carried through encircling, hunting and attacking.

Findings

A linear interpolated price penalty model is developed based on simple analytical geometry equations that perfectly blend two non-commensurable objectives. The desired GWO algorithm reports a new optimum thermal generation schedule for a feasible solution for different operational strategies. These are better than the earlier reports regarding solution quality.

Practical implications

The proposed method seems to be a promising optimization tool for the utilities, thereby modifying their operating strategies to generate electricity at minimum energy cost and pollution levels. Thus, a strategic balance is derived among economic development, energy cost and environmental sustainability.

Originality/value

A single optimization tool is used in both quadratic and non-convex cost characteristics thermal modal. The GWO algorithm has discovered the best, cost-effective and environmentally sustainable generation dispatch.
Social entrepreneurship and SDGs: case studies from northeast Nigeria
Authors: Dodo Fardeen , Raimi Lukman , Rajah Edward Bala
Published: December 2021

Case synopsis

The use of entrepreneurship to deliver profound social impact is a much-needed but poorly understood concept. While social enterprises are generally well understood, there is a considerable need to have a more common approach to measuring the different ways they create social value for us as well as to reduce the difficulties of starting and growing them in the difficult conditions of developing countries. In the northeast of Nigeria, for example, the mammoth challenge of rebuilding communities in an unfavorable entrepreneurship environment makes the need for a solution even more urgent. This case study illustrates a model of promoting entrepreneurship that advances the conditions of sustainable development goals (SDGs) in local communities using a configuration of the key theories of social impact entrepreneurship (variants of entrepreneurship with blended value or mission orientation, including social entrepreneurship, sustainable entrepreneurship and institutional entrepreneurship). The extent to which ventures can adjust and improve the extent of their contributions to the SDGs are shown using examples of three entrepreneurs at different stages of growth. From this case study, students will be able to understand how entrepreneurs can identify and exploit social impact opportunities in the venture’s business model, within the network of primary stakeholders as well as in the wider institutional environment with the support of Impact+, a simple impact measurement praxis.

Learning objectives

The case study envisions training students how to hardwire social impact focus in the venture’s business model (social entrepreneurship), how to run ventures with minimal harm to the environment and greatest benefit to stakeholders (sustainable entrepreneurship) and how to contribute to improving the institutional environment for social purpose entrepreneurship (institutional entrepreneurship).

At the end of learning this case study, students should be able to: 1. discover an effective model for a startup social venture; 2. explore options for managing a venture sustainably and helping stakeholders out of poverty; and 3. identify ways to contribute to improving the institutional environment for social impact entrepreneurs.

Social implications

For students, this case will help in educating them on a pragmatic approach to designing social impact ventures – one that calibrates where they are on well-differentiated scales.

For business schools, entrepreneurial development institutions and policymakers, this case study can help them learn how to target entrepreneurial development for specific development outcomes.

Complexity academic level

The case study is preferably for early-stage postgraduate students (MSc or MBA).

Supplementary materials

Teaching notes are available for educators only.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Family supportive and singles-friendly: how an equally supportive working environment impacts unmarried hotel employees
Authors: Pan Su-Ying , Li Yuquan
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to focus on a relatively unexplored area: single employees’ non-work needs. With social information processing theory as the basis, the authors examine the process whereby a singles-friendly work culture leads to multiple desirable outcomes for single employees.

Design/methodology/approach

Data was collected from 472 single employees working in the hospitality sector in China. A model with three mediating paths was tested using Mplus 7.2 software.

Findings

The authors found that organization-based self-esteem mediates the relationship between a singles-friendly work culture and emotional exhaustion; procedural justice mediates the relationship between a singles-friendly work culture and organizational commitment and hostility mediate the relationship between a singles-friendly work culture and helping behaviors directed toward coworkers.

Practical implications

The present study reminds hotel managers that establishing a singles-friendly work culture is a new strategy to retain and attract talented single employees.

Originality/value

Inspired by the work of Casper et al. (2007), the authors examined the importance of equal employment opportunities for single employees, who are the major workforce in the hotel industry but are often ignored in academic research.
Seeing differently from others: the impact of relationship conflict asymmetry and realization on team performance
Authors: Wang Shirley
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Past research on team conflict has often conceptualized it as a collective phenomenon whereby members of the same team perceive similar levels of conflict. However, similarity in perspectives can more often be the exception than the norm. As such, the purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of relationship conflict (RC) asymmetry on information elaboration and team performance. Additionally, I introduce a new construct: perception of team RC asymmetry and propose that it strengthens the positive effects of RC asymmetry.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 181 MBA students comprising 52 teams participated in the research. Students worked together for the duration of the semester to complete a team project that comprised 45% of their final grade. Surveys were administered at three points in time with performance measured at the end and other focal variables measured at the midpoint. Regression analyses and the PROCESS macro were used to examine a first stage moderated mediation model.

Findings

Results showed that RC asymmetry increased elaboration, which, in turn, improved team performance. The link between RC asymmetry and elaboration was moderated by the perception of team RC asymmetry.

Originality/value

The present research shows that to have a fuller understanding of RC one must consider the level of dispersion experienced by team members. Taking this approach has uncovered a way in which RC can actually benefit teams instead of lead to destructive outcomes.
The Rock in Rio extraordinary consumer experience journey: a value-based approach
Authors: Höpner Aline , Almeida Stefânia Ordovás de , Brasil Vinícius Sittoni
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to propose a framework for understanding the construction of extraordinary consumer experiences in events from a multidimensional and longitudinal value perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The main research site was the Rock in Rio Brazil VI festival, an extraordinary consumption experience. The study takes a phenomenological interpretative approach, for which input was obtained using multiple data collection techniques (in-depth interviews, diaries and photographs) in a longitudinal study that took place over 18 months. The study also includes the first author’s observations and interactions with the event organizer and its partners during the same period, and post-pandemic complementary data that were collected in 2021.

Findings

The research findings demonstrate the integrative potential of concepts and theories that are analysed in the light of a longitudinal perspective for understanding value formation for consumers in their experience of extraordinary events. It also indicates that the construction of experience involves a high level of interaction and a high degree of engagement with the consumer in order to foster the development of an affective relationship between the service provider and the user that is based on a co-created experience.

Originality/value

The study answers call for more research into understanding consumer value, and how it is created, delivered and developed over time (Helkkula et al., 2012). It also expands our understanding of consumption experiences and the consumer journey (Lemon and Verhoef, 2016). It encourages longitudinal qualitative studies to be carried out and analyses value in the consumption experience in the field of events.
Influence of inbound and outbound open innovation practices on performance of firms: an evidence from Indian product SMEs
Authors: K.V. Sriram , Hungund Sumukh
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to analyze the influence of inbound and outbound open innovation practices on firm performance among Indian product small and medium-sized enterprises.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional design with a quantitative approach is adopted. The data is collected from 213 decision-makers of software product firms through an online survey using the criteria-based snowball sampling method. The data is processed in IBM SPSS 23.0 and analyzed using multiple regression.

Findings

Collaboration with customers and purchasing intellectual property rights (IPR) are the key inbound practices that positively influence firm performance. Outbound innovation practices such as selling out IPR and spin-off influence firm performance negatively and positively, respectively. Inbound open innovation practice such as trade show participation helps in product development and outbound open innovation practice such as spin-off helps in product development.

Originality/value

The study analyses the influences of inbound and outbound open innovation practices on firm performance among software product firms in emerging economies. The research outcomes have vast implications for theory and practitioners.
The effects of performance measurement system uses on organizational ambidexterity and firm performance
Authors: Mura Matteo , Micheli Pietro , Longo Mariolina
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aims to investigate how dynamic tensions between performance measurement system (PMS) uses enable organizations to achieve both exploitation and exploration and enhance firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected survey data on 153 Italian companies. Scales for each construct were validated through an exploratory factor analysis. Data on firm performance were cross-validated by using lagged accounting data. The authors tested our hypotheses using hierarchical ordinary least squares regressions, together with bootstrapping procedures for the test on mediation.

Findings

A diagnostic use of PMS has a positive association with both exploitation – e.g. reductions in total costs and lead times – and exploration, e.g. introduction of new products and extension of product ranges. The dynamic tension created by a joint diagnostic and interactive use has the strongest association with organizational ambidexterity, measured as the multiplicative interaction between exploration and exploitation.

Practical implications

If an organization or business unit is mainly pursuing exploitative goals, a mainly diagnostic use of PMS would be most suitable. If goals are both exploitative and explorative, a mix of diagnostic and interactive uses would be most effective.

Originality/value

This research helps reconcile conflicting views in the literature. The diagnostic use of PMS, far from acting as a “negative force,” appears to be necessary to guide opportunity search and to establish an appropriate scope for exploration-related activities. The authors’ focus on the uses of PMSs shows that ambidexterity is achieved through managerial capability, rather than just through the introduction of systems and structures.
Brand portfolio strategies effects on consumers' attitude
Authors: Yilmazel Sefa Emre , Özer Leyla
Published: December 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study is to determine the effects of brand components (CBBE, brand fit, brand image, brand reputation, brand familiarity) on consumers brand portfolio attitude via perceived risk (for two main portfolio strategies).

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a structured questionnaire to collect primary data from 636 consumers who made purchases from companies using house of brand (318) and branded house strategy (318). By conducting reliability and validity analysis, the model of this study was tested with confirmatory factor analysis and path analysis methods, using structural equation modeling.

Findings

According to the results of the path analysis, the effects of CBBE and brand reputation on brand attitude were confirmed for both house of brand and branded house strategy. Moreover, the full and partial mediating effect of perceived risk was proven in the relationships.

Research limitations/implications

One of the limitations of the study is determining a portfolio of brands for each strategy and collecting data for these brands. In addition, since the number of consumers using brand portfolios could not be reached in the study, data could be collected using the purposeful convenience sampling method. For this reason, it is thought that research conducted with the data obtained through systematic sampling methods can yield more reliable results.

Practical implications

Managers of companies with a brand portfolio should work on a main strategy that enhances CBBE and brand reputation regardless of the strategy they use. After these two variables, the variable that portfolio managers need to address is brand fit.

Originality/value

It will offer different perspectives in terms of understanding which portfolio strategy is needed, and which predecessors and outputs can be produced. Also, the findings of the research will produce important results to reduce the perceived risks of consumers and increase their positive attitudes toward brand portfolios.
Why are major sports events trapped in the winner's curse? A case study of the 2017 World Road Cycling Championship
Authors: Solberg Harry Arne , Becker Denis Mike , Denstadli Jon Martin , Heldal Frode , Knardal Per Ståle , Thøring Thor Atle
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This paper sought to determine how a major sport event can become trapped in a winner's curse, in which the fierce competition to host the event forces organisers to spend more on acquiring and hosting it than what it is worth in economic terms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a combination of document analysis and 47 in-depth interviews with 51 individuals representing various private and public organisations involved in the implementation of the UCI 2017 Road Cycling World Championship. Snowball sampling and a semi-structured interview guide were used to ensure coverage of all relevant information.

Findings

The organiser and the host municipal lacked the necessary experience with events of this size and character. Information from previous championships events was not transferred, and the municipality administration did not utilise experiences from hosting previous events. Limited financial resources prevented the organiser from hiring enough employees with the necessary competence. Lack of communication between the stakeholders who contributed in hosting the event reduced the quality of planning and preparations. A dubious culture and lack of seriousness within the Norwegian Cycling Federation, which was the owner of organising company, seemed to have been transferred to organiser.

Originality/value

The research identifies some of the reasons why major sports events so often turns out to be more problematic than expected in economic terms, not only for the organiser but also for actors in the public sector in the host city. The novelty is that it goes into depth on the underlying reasons and the dynamic forces behind these problems.
Exploring gamers' crowdsourcing engagement in Pokémon Go communities
Authors: Sharma Shavneet , Slack Neale , Devi Kritika , Greig Tuma , Naidu Samantha
Published: December 2021

Purpose

With the increasing popularity of online games like Pokémon Go, a new wave of crowdsourcing communities have emerged, allowing gamers to collaborate, communicate and share useful game-related information. This paper aims to examine the factors that influence gamers' crowdsourcing behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework is developed that combines the DeLone & McLean model, self-determination theory, and different levels of engagement behaviour. The online survey collected 371 responses that were analysed using Covariance Based Structural Equation Modelling (CB-SEM).

Findings

The results show that extrinsic and intrinsic motivation positively influenced gamers' crowdsourcing engagement intention. System quality and information quality were also confirmed to be positively associated with gamers' crowdsourcing engagement intention. Furthermore, crowdsourcing engagement intention was found to be positively associated with crowdsourcing content consumption, contribution, and creation.

Practical implications

The findings of this study are useful for the owners of Pokémon Go and other gaming-related crowdsourcing platforms in devising tailored strategies to increase the crowdsourcing engagement of gamers.

Originality/value

This study provides the first empirical evidence of factors motivating online gamers' crowdsourcing intention. This study also presents novel insight into online gamers' crowdsourcing intention by combining diverse theories which offer different perspectives and a more comprehensive understanding of the phenomenon. Contribution to the research on the intention-behaviour gap by modelling three behavioural outcomes (content creation, contribution, and consumption behaviour) of crowdsourcing engagement intention, is another important contribution of this study.
Modeling heterogeneous technologies in the presence of sample selection: The case of dairy farms and the adoption of agri‐environmental schemes in France
Authors: Dakpo K Hervé , Latruffe Laure , Desjeux Yann , Jeanneaux Philippe
Published: December 2021

In this article, we assess farms’ technical efficiency accounting for their production heterogeneity and correcting for the potential endogeneity associated with the adoption of Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) agri‐environmental schemes (AESs). We estimate a first‐step selection probit model. In a second step we estimate the latent class stochastic frontier model (LCSFM) separately on each of the two sub‐samples, the AESs adopters and the AESs non‐adopters. We also account for heteroscedasticity in the estimation of inefficiency effects in the LCSFM within each sub‐sample. The application is to Farm Accountancy Data Network (FADN) dairy farms in France during 2002–2016. We identify one class with intensive technology and one class with extensive technology for each of the two sub‐samples. The investigation of inefficiency effects shows that modeling production heterogeneity could help better target the CAP, since the relationship between operational subsidies and farms' efficiency differs depending on whether or not production heterogeneity is accounted for.
Successful treatment of a chronic oroantral fistula infected with extensively drug resistant bacteria using long‐term oesophageal tube feeding and several non‐conventional treatments in a horse
Authors: Fletcher JR , Yuen KY , Stewart AJ , Young AC , Gibson JS , James OA , Medina‐Torres CE , Forde BM , Sole‐Guitart A
Published: December 2021

Background

Chronic oroantral fistulae (OAF) with secondary sinusitis can occur following repulsion of cheek teeth in horses.

Case Report

An 8‐year‐old Andalusian cross gelding presented with an iatrogenic clinical crown fracture of tooth 209, which underwent repulsion of its apical portion (day 0). The horse was treated with intramuscular penicillin and intravenous gentamicin (5 days), followed by oral trimethoprim‐sulphonamide (10 days) and then oral doxycycline (14 days). The acute iatrogenic OAF created during the initial repulsion persisted; a chronic OAF was identified on day 24. On day 48, septic sinusitis with multidrug‐resistant (MDR) Escherichia coli was confirmed. Although susceptible to enrofloxacin in vitro, 30 days of therapy was unsuccessful. Subsequent serial cultures grew multiple MDR and extensively drug‐resistant (XDR) gram‐negative microorganisms. Whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) revealed multiple sequence types of E. coli, with a range of resistance and virulence genes. The orientation of the OAF, regional osteomyelitis and septic sinusitis were confirmed with computed tomography on day 70. On day 74, enteral nutrition was provided through a cervical oesophagostomy tube for 3 months for prevention of oral feed contamination. The OAF was treated with various alternative therapeutics, including apple cider vinegar, propolis and amikacin impregnated products, until resolution on day 116.

Conclusion

These non‐conventional therapeutics, antimicrobials and long‐term oesophagostomy contributed to the successful treatment of a complicated OAF. In the future, WGS may be useful to inform antimicrobial selection when MDR or XDR organisms are identified.
Assessment of medicine use based on WHO drug‐use indicators in public health facilities of the South Indian Union Territory
Authors: Meena Dinesh Kumar , Mathaiyan Jayanthi , Thulasingam Mahalakshmy , Ramasamy Kesavan
Published: December 2021

Objective

To assess medicine use based on World Health Organization (WHO) core drug‐use indicators in selected public health facilities of the South Indian Union Territory.

Methods

A prospective cross‐sectional study was conducted for period of one year (from March 2019 to February 2020) in 10 selected public health facilities based on the WHO documentHow to investigate drug use in health facilities. Total 900 prescriptions were analysed to study prescribing, patient care and health facility indicators. The results were compared with the WHO standard measures.

Results

The overall average number of drugs per prescription was 3.2. Percentage of prescriptions with antibiotics and injections were found to be 36.6 and 11.4%, respectively. Percentage of drugs prescribed by generic name was 74.6%. Percentage of drugs prescribed from the National List of Essential Medicine was 93.3%. Average consultation and dispensing time were found to be 3.9 minutes and 49.3 seconds, respectively. The percentage of drugs dispensed in this study was 98.5 and 61.6% of medicines were properly labelled; 76.7% of patients had correct knowledge of each medicine dispensed to them. Mean availability of key essential medicine was 73.4%.

Conclusion

Indicators such as percentage of drugs prescribed from the National List of Essential Medicine, availability of copy of essential medicine list and percentage of drugs dispensed were found to be as per WHO optimal value. Indicators such as average number of drugs per prescription, average consultation and dispensing time and percentage of medicines labelled were found below optimal value and need to be improved.
Effect of donor characteristics on T cell‐replete haploidentical stem cell transplantation over the last 10 years at a single institution
Authors: Wu Yibo , Lai Xiaoyu , Shi Jimin , Tan Yamin , Zhao Yanmin , Yu Jian , Liu Lizhen , Zhang Wei , Huang He , Luo Yi
Published: December 2021

One of the most complex issues with haploidentical stem cell transplantation (haplo‐SCT) is donor selection, given that multiple haploidentical donors are often available for a given recipient. To develop evidence‐based guidance for donor selection in the setting of anti‐thymocyte globulin‐based haplo‐SCT, we performed a prospective cohort study of 512 patients with haematological malignancies who had haplo‐SCT to determine which donor variables were most important in favouring transplant outcomes. Increasing donor age was associated with poorer overall survival (OS) [hazard ratio (HR) 1·08, P = 0·044]. Female donors to male recipients was significantly associated with higher non‐relapse mortality (NRM; HR 2·05, P = 0·006). Furthermore, increasing donor age had a higher risk of Grades 3–4 acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD; HR 1·17, P = 0·005), female donors to male recipients was associated with a higher risk of Grades 2–4 aGVHD (HR 1·50, P = 0·022). Sibling donors had superior OS, disease‐free survival, and NRM than parental donors in patients aged <35 years. However, sibling donors had higher NRM than offspring donors in patients aged ≥35 years. A younger donor, usually a young sibling in younger recipients (aged <35 years) or a young offspring in older patients (aged ≥35 years) and avoiding female donors to male recipients should be preferred when multiple haploidentical donors are available.
Mapping Word to World in ASL: Evidence from a Human Simulation Paradigm
Authors: Fitch Allison , Arunachalam Sudha , Lieberman Amy M.
Published: December 2021

Across languages, children map words to meaning with great efficiency, despite a seemingly unconstrained space of potential mappings. The literature on how children do this is primarily limited to spoken language. This leaves a gap in our understanding of sign language acquisition, because several of the hypothesized mechanisms that children use are visual (e.g., visual attention to the referent), and sign languages are perceived in the visual modality. Here, we used the Human Simulation Paradigm in American Sign Language (ASL) to determine potential cues to word learning. Sign‐naïve adult participants viewed video clips of parent–child interactions in ASL, and at a designated point, had to guess what ASL sign the parent produced. Across two studies, we demonstrate that referential clarity in ASL interactions is characterized by access to information about word class and referent presence (for verbs), similarly to spoken language. Unlike spoken language, iconicity is a cue to word meaning in ASL, although this is not always a fruitful cue. We also present evidence that verbs are highlighted well in the input, relative to spoken English. The results shed light on both similarities and differences in the information that learners may have access to in acquiring signed versus spoken languages.
Exotic herbivores dominate Australian high‐elevation grasslands
Authors: Hartley Renée , Blanchard Wade , Schroder Mellesa , Lindenmayer David B. , Sato Chloe , Scheele Ben C.
Published: December 2021

Invasive species are major drivers of ecosystem degradation globally. How invasive herbivore impacts differ from native herbivore impacts remains understudied. We examined the relationships between herbivore sign and vegetation height, foliage density, cover of forbs, weeds, bare ground, and soil compaction across environmental and herbivore activity gradients in the mainland Australian Alps. We detected native and exotic herbivore sign at 32.8% and 94.0% of sites, respectively. Total herbivore activity was primarily attributed to exotic herbivores and was associated with elevation and grassland type. Greater horse (exotic) activity was associated with lower vegetation height, lower foliage density, higher forb cover, and higher soil compaction. Greater rabbit and hare (exotic) activity was associated with lower vegetation height, lower foliage density, and a higher cover of bare ground. Greater total herbivore activity was associated with greater weed cover. Neither deer (exotic) nor kangaroo and wallaby (native) activity was related to response variables. We demonstrate that exotic herbivores dominate mammalian herbivory in these grasslands, which evolved without analogous hooved species. Given the restricted distribution and high endemism of these ecosystems, and associations between exotic herbivores and characteristics of degraded grasslands, we recommend landscape‐scale exotic herbivore management, focusing on maintaining ground cover and vegetation structure.
Squash cytology of clear cell meningioma: Report of a case
Authors: Basu Tista , Das Mou , Ghosh Arijit , Chaudhuri Shubhamitra , Chatterjee Uttara , Ghosh Subhasis
Published: December 2021

Clear cell meningioma (CCM) is a rare histological variant of meningioma. It is commonly located at the cerebellopontine angle and the spine particularly around the cauda equina. Squash cytology finding of meningioma is well‐established, however there is sparse literature available on squash cytology of CCM. Here we describe a case of CCM occurring in the lumbar spine in a young woman. Initially, on squash cytology a diagnosis of a low grade glioma favouring an ependymoma was considered. Eventually histopathological examination along with immunohistochemistry helped us reach the diagnosis of a CCM. In this article we discuss the cytomorphology of CCM along with its cytological differentials and the hurdles to an accurate diagnosis.
Influence of endogenous reference points on the selling decisions of retail investors
Authors: Bansal Avijit , Jacob Joshy , Pandey Ajay
Published: December 2021

Using trader‐level data, we examine the impact of the stock‐specific endogenous reference points, the ‘realized‐return’ and the ‘peak‐return’ of the prior round on the selling propensity in a subsequent investment round in the same asset. The selling propensity rises significantly near the endogenous reference points. The significance is greater when the holding period is relatively shorter and when the time gap between the consecutive rounds is lower, implying a recency effect. Finally, the impact is more substantial on traders holding fewer stocks. The results imply that traders' prior stock‐specific experience plays a significant role in the reference point formation.