bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Concordance between self-reported and actigraphy-assessed sleep duration among African-American adults: findings from the Jackson Heart Sleep Study
Authors: Jackson Chandra L , Ward Julia B , Johnson Dayna A , Sims Mario , Wilson James , Redline Susan
Published: November 2019

Study Objectives

Most epidemiological studies assess sleep duration using questionnaires. Interpreting this information requires understanding the extent to which self-reported habitual sleep reflects objectively assessed sleep duration, particularly among African Americans, who disproportionately experience poor sleep health.

Methods

Among African-American participants of the Jackson Heart Sleep Study, we investigated differences in questionnaire-based self-assessed average sleep duration and self-assessed wake-bed time differences compared to actigraphy-based assessments of total sleep time (TST) and average time in bed (TIB). Linear regression models provided estimates of concordance between actigraphy-based and self-reported sleep duration.

Results

Among 821 adults, self-assessed average sleep duration was lower than self-assessed wake-bed time differences (6.4 ± 1.4 vs. 7.5 ± 1.7 h, p < 0.0001). Mean actigraphy-based TST was 6.6 ± 1.2 h, and actigraphy-based average TIB was 7.6 ± 1.2 h. Self-assessed average sleep duration and actigraphy-based TST were moderately correlated (r = 0.28, p < 0.0001). Self-assessed average sleep duration underestimated actigraphy-based TST by −30.7 min (95% confidence intervals [CI]: −36.5 to −24.9). In contrast, self-assessed wake-bed time differences overestimated actigraphy-based TST by 45.1 min (95% CI: 38.6–51.5). In subgroup analyses, self-assessed average sleep duration underestimated actigraphy-based measures most strongly among participants with insomnia symptoms.

Conclusions

Among African Americans, self-assessed average sleep duration underestimated objectively measured sleep while self-assessed wake-bed time differences overestimated objectively measured sleep. Sleep measurement property differences should be considered when investigating disparities in sleep and evaluating their associations with health outcomes.
The Effects of Skill Regimes and Family Policies on the Gender Employment Gap
Authors: Kang Ji Young
Published: November 2019

Drawing on the literature of gendering varieties of capitalism, this study empirically tests whether skill regimes moderate the association between family policy and the gender employment gap. Using the Luxembourg Income Study for fifteen countries with multilevel analysis and various gender employment indicators, this study finds that general skill regimes are associated with a smaller gender employment gap in full-time jobs, high-skilled jobs, and in the private sector. The effects of parental leave vary significantly by skill regimes, suggesting that patterns of gender employment gap associated with parental leave differ by types of skill regimes.
Surveillance for Leishmania asymptomatic infection in endemic foci of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Venezuela: a combination of leishmanin skin test and PCR using blood clots improves detection and enables identification of species
Authors: Torrellas Annhymariet , Ferrer Elizabeth , Cruz Israel , De Lima Hector , Borges Rafael , Delgado Olinda , Moffi Pablo , Miles Michael A , Feliciangeli M Dora
Published: November 2019

Background

Little is known about the prevalence of asymptomatic leishmaniasis in Venezuela. The objective of this study was to quantify Leishmania asymptomatic infection in six endemic foci of cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) in Portuguesa State, Venezuela, where no previous data were available.

Methods

Study of the prevalence of Leishmania asymptomatic infection was carried out in 841 individuals from six endemic foci of CL in the municipalities Sucre and Ospino, Portuguesa State. We applied the leishmanin skin test (LST) and the internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) PCR to DNA from sera and blood clots of all LST-positive and 20% of LST-negative patients.

Results

Of 841 inhabitants tested by LST, 197 returned a positive reaction (23.42%); all of the LST-positives (197) and 121 negatives were screened by nested PCR using serum and blood clots. Among the LST-positive group, 2.54% were PCR-positive with sera, while 44.67% were positive with blood clots. In the LST-negative group, PCR was positive in 2.48% of serum samples and in 38.84% of blood clots.

Conclusions

It is recommended that LST and PCR on blood clots are used together to detect exposure and asymptomatic infection and for identification of the Leishmania species.
Cell Biology During Infection of Plant Viruses in Insect Vectors and Plant Hosts
Authors: Chen Qian , Wei Taiyun
Published: November 2019

Plant viruses typically cause severe pathogenicity in plants, even resulting in the death of plants. Many pathogenic plant viruses are transmitted in a persistent manner via insect vectors. Interestingly, unlike in the plant hosts, persistent viruses are either nonpathogenic or show limited pathogenicity in their insect vectors, while taking advantage of the cellular machinery of insect vectors for completing their life cycles. This review discusses why persistent plant viruses are nonpathogenic or have limited pathogenicity to their insect vectors while being pathogenic to plants hosts. Current advances in cell biology of virus–insect vector interactions are summarized, including virus-induced inclusion bodies, changes of insect cellular ultrastructure, and immune response of insects to the viruses, especially autophagy and apoptosis. The corresponding findings of virus-plant interactions are compared. An integrated view of the balance strategy achieved by the interaction between viral attack and the immune response of insect is presented. Finally, we outline progress gaps between virus-insect and virus-plant interactions, thus highlighting the contributions of cultured cells to the cell biology of virus-insect interactions. Furthermore, future prospects of studying the cell biology of virus-vector interactions are presented.
Detection of Phytophthora infestans by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification, Real-Time LAMP, and Droplet Digital PCR
Authors: Ristaino Jean B. , Saville Amanda C. , Paul Rajesh , Cooper Donald C. , Wei Qingshan
Published: November 2019

Phytophthora infestans is the causal agent of potato late blight, a devastating disease of tomato and potato and a threat to global food security. Early detection and intervention is essential for effective management of the pathogen. We developed a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay for P. infestans and compared this assay to conventional PCR, real-time LAMP, and droplet digital PCR for detection of P. infestans. The LAMP assay was specific for P. infestans on potato and tomato and did not amplify other potato- or tomato-infecting Phytophthora species or other fungal and bacterial pathogens that infect potato and tomato. The detection threshold for SYBR Green LAMP and real-time LAMP read with hydroxynaphthol blue and EvaGreen was 1 pg/µl. In contrast, detection by conventional PCR was 10 pg/µl. Droplet digital PCR had the lowest detection threshold (100 fg/µl). We adapted the LAMP assay using SYBR Green and a mobile reader (mReader) for use in the field. Detection limits were 584 fg/µl for SYBR Green LAMP read on the mReader, which was more sensitive than visualization with the human eye. The mobile platform records geospatial coordinates and data from positive pathogen detections can be directly uploaded to a cloud database. Data can then be integrated into disease surveillance networks. This system will be useful for real-time detection of P. infestans and will improve the timeliness of reports into surveillance systems such as USABlight or EuroBlight.
MicroRNA‐3064‐5p sponged by MALAT1 suppresses angiogenesis in human hepatocellular carcinoma by targeting the FOXA1/CD24/Src pathway
Authors: Zhang Pei , Ha Mei , Li Lianbing , Huang Xu , Liu Changjiang
Published: November 2019

Angiogenesis is critical for the development, progression, and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but the roles of miR‐3064‐5p in HCC angiogenesis are still unknown. In this study, the roles of miR‐3064‐5p in HCC angiogenesis were studied in 192 HCC patients, xenograft mouse models, and HCC cell lines. The results showed that miR‐3064‐5p expression was significantly decreased in HCC tissues and cells, and downregulated miR‐3064‐5p was associated with upregulated angiogenic potential of HCC. MiR‐3064‐5p inhibited proangiogenic VEGFA and angiogenin expressions but induced antiangiogenic endostatin and MMP12 expressions, finally leading to suppression of HCC angiogenesis, as shown by the decline in intratumoral microvessel density (MVD). Moreover, miR‐3064‐5p was inversely correlated with lncRNA MALAT1 and FOXA1. FOXA1 bound to and interacted with CD24 and then regulated Src phosphorylation. MiR‐3064‐5p played an antiangiogenic role by inhibiting the FOXA1/CD24/Src pathway, whereas oncogenic MALAT1 functioned as a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) by sponging miR‐3064‐5p to alleviate the suppressive effect on the FOXA1 pathway. HCC patients with high miR‐3064‐5p, low MALAT1, or low FOXA1 expression had a better prognosis with longer overall survival and recurrence‐free survival. In univariate and multivariate analyses, miR‐3064‐5p was identified as the independent prognostic predicator for HCC progression and patient survival. Taken together, miR‐3064‐5p exerts an antiangiogenic role by targeting the FOXA1/CD24/Src pathway but oncogenic lncRNA MALAT1 acts as a ceRNA to sponge miR‐3064‐5p. MiR‐3064‐5p is of great clinical significance and is a novel prognostic indicator and an attractive therapeutic target for HCC.
Ignatzschineria indica bacteremia in a patient with a maggot-infested heel ulcer: a case report and literature review
Authors: Deslandes Vincent , Haney Colleen , Bernard Kathryn , Desjardins Marc
Published: November 2019

An elderly patient was admitted with sepsis to a community hospital. The individual was found to have a foot wound infested with maggots, and clinical evidence of cellulitis. A blood culture was positive on day 2 with

Ignatzschineria indica

. The patient was treated successfully with a combination of antibiotics and manual removal of the maggots. Poor living conditions were central to his presentation.
Microbispora catharanthi sp. nov., a novel endophytic actinomycete isolated from the root of Catharanthus roseus
Authors: Klykleung Nattaporn , Yuki Masahiro , Kudo Takuji , Ohkuma Moriya , Phongsopitanun Wongsakorn , Pittayakhajonwut Pattama , Tanasupawat Somboon
Published: November 2019

Strain CR1-09T, an actinomycete isolated from the root of Catharanthus roseus, was taxonomically studied based upon polyphasic approaches. The isolate formed a pair of ovular to circular, smooth-surfaced spores on short sporophores alternately branched from aerial mycelia. It contained meso-diaminopimelic acid in cell wall peptidoglycans. The major menaquinones were MK-9 (H4) and MK-9 (H2). The predominant cellular fatty acids were iso-C16 : 0 and C16 : 0. The polar lipids profile consisted of diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, hydroxyl phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylinositol, phosphatidylinositol mannosides, and unidentified ninhydrin positive phosphoglycolipids. Strain CR1-09T showed the highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity with Microbispora tritici DSM 104650T (99.5 %). Based on the polyphasic approach, DNA–DNA relatedness and average nucleotide identity (ANI), the strain is considered to represent a novel species of the genus

Microbispora

, for which the name Microbispora catharanthi is proposed. The type strain is strain CR1-09T (=JCM 30045T=TISTR 2273T).
Ktedonosporobacter rubrisoli gen. nov., sp. nov., a novel representative of the class Ktedonobacteria, isolated from red soil, and proposal of Ktedonosporobacteraceae fam. nov.
Authors: Yan Bingfa , Guo Xiaoxuan , Liu Minghao , Huang Ying
Published: November 2019

A novel filamentous, spore-forming, Gram-stain-positive bacterium, designated SCAWS-G2T, was isolated from red soil in Jiangxi Province, PR China. The strain grew at 25–45 °C and at pH 4.0–7.0, and was able to tolerate up to 50 mM Zn2+. The complete genome of strain SCAWS-G2Twas a circular chromosome of ~11.34 Mb, which contained four 16S rRNA genes with three sequence types (0.4–0.8 % differences). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain SCAWS-G2Tformed a distinct lineage within the orderKtedonobacterales, showing <89.2 % sequence similarities to the recognized taxa of this order. The whole-genome based phylogenomic tree separated strain SCAWS-G2Tfrom the recognized families withinKtedonobacterales. The genome-wide average nucleotide identity values between strain SCAWS-G2Tand the related type strains were <68.2 %. The strain can also be differentiated from the recognized families by a number of phenotypic characteristics. The polar lipids of SCAWS-G2Twere diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylinositol, seven unidentified glycolipids and one unidentified lipid. The peptidoglycan amino acids contained ornithine, glycine, glutamic acid and alanine, and the cell-wall sugars were mainly galactose and rhamnose. The major fatty acids were C16 : 12-OH, C16 : 0and iso-C17 : 0. Based on all these data, we propose that strain SCAWS-G2Trepresents a novel genus and species,Ktedonosporobacter rubrisoligen. nov., sp. nov., within the new familyKtedonosporobacteraceaefam. nov. of the orderKtedonobacterales. The type strain ofKtedonosporobacter rubrisoliis SCAWS-G2T(=CGMCC 1.16132T=DSM 105258T).
Early Intervention in preterm infants modulates LINE-1 promoter methylation and neurodevelopment
Authors: Fontana Camilla , Marasca Federica , Provitera Livia , Mancinelli Sara , Pesenti Nicola , Sinha Shruti , Passera Sofia , Abrignani Sergio , Mosca Fabio , Lodato Simona , Bodega Beatrice , Fumagalli Monica
Published: November 2019

Background

Early life adversity exposure impacts preterm infants’ neurodevelopment and early intervention protocols may modulate neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Neuronal genomes are plastic in response to environment and mobile genetic elements, including LINE-1 (L1), are source of brain genomic mosaicism. Maternal care during early life regulates L1 methylation and copy number variations (CNVs) in mice. Here, we sought to identify the effects of maternal care and positive multisensory stimulation (Early Intervention) on L1 methylation and neurodevelopment in preterm infants.

Methods

Very preterm infants were randomized to receive Standard Care or Early Intervention. L1 methylation was measured at birth and at hospital discharge. At 12 months infants’ neurodevelopment was evaluated with the Griffiths Scales. L1 methylation and CNVs were measured in mouse brain areas at embryonic and postnatal stages.

Results

We demonstrated that L1 is hypomethylated in preterm versus term infants at birth. Early Intervention contributes to restore L1 methylation and positively modulates neurodevelopment. We showed that L1 methylation is developmentally-regulated in mice, decreasing in early postnatal life stages, which turns into an increased L1 CNVs specifically in hippocampus and cortex.

Conclusions

Here we demonstrated that L1 dynamics can be modulated by Early Intervention, in parallel with ameliorated neurodevelopmental outcomes. We further identified a specific developmental window of the fetal mouse brain, sensitive to early life experience, in which L1 dynamics are fine-tuned contributing to shape the brain genomic landscape.

Trail Registration

clinicalTrial.gov (NCT02983513)

Funding

Italian Ministry of Health (RC 780/03 2017), University of Milan (DISCCO 2015) and INGM internal funding.
Genome analysis of two Lactobacillus plantarum strains, LLY-606 and pc-26, for evaluating their potential as probiotics
Authors: Sudun  , Liang Lifeng , Li Zhenzhen , Lin Qingnan , Peng Can , Lei Xuejing , Liu Songling
Published: November 2019

Lactobacillus plantarum was not only one of the most popular probiotics, but also one of the most versatile lactic acid bacteria. L. plantarum LLY-606 and L. plantarum pc-26 are strains isolated from human gut that are intended to be explored as probiotics. In this study, the genome sequences of LLY-606 and pc-26 were sequenced, and multiple genes related to probiotic properties were analyzed. First, the pathogenicity of these strains was evaluated, and antibiotic resistance genes were surveyed at the whole genome level to determine their primary safety. And then, genes for stress response, plantaricin (pln) biosynthesis, extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) biosynthesis, and bile salt hydrolase (BSH) were analyzed to evaluate their industrial utilization, adhesive capacity, and survival ability in gut, which were properties fundamental for probiotic strains. The physiological features assured by these genes were assayed in vitro. The strains were then evaluated in vivo for their ability to lower cholesterol, and they were both found to be effective in improving hypercholesterolemia in golden hamsters. In this study, a genetic pre-evaluation was conducted through genome analysis combined with in vitro physiological assay, and the probiotic properties of these strains were verified in vivo.
Kinobead Profiling Reveals Reprogramming of B-cell Receptor Signaling in Response to Therapy Within Primary Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia Cells
Authors: Linley AJ , Karydis LI , Mondru A , D’Avola A , Cicconi S , Griffin R , Forconi F , Pettitt AR , Kalakonda N , Rawstron A , Hillmen P , Steele AJ , MacEwan DJ , Packham G , Prior IA , Slupsky JR
Published: November 2019

Signaling via the B-cell receptor (BCR) is critical for driving CLL pathobiology, promoting both malignant cell survival and disease progression. However, understanding of this pathway is limited, particularly in relation to potential changes in response to therapy. Here, we describe a kinobead-based protocol, used in conjunction with mass-spectrometry to study surface-IgM signaling in primary CLL cells. We identified a ‘fingerprint’ of over 30 kinases which displayed unique, patientspecific response following sIgM stimulation. Matched analysis of CLL cells in samples taken from clinical trials showed that BCR-induced kinome responses altered between baseline and disease progression in patients who relapsed from chemoimmunotherapy. Moreover, adaptive changes to BCR signaling were also observed in CLL cells from clinical trial patients receiving ibrutinib; longitudinal profiling revealed increased signaling despite BTK inhibition. Collectively, these data comprise the first comprehensive investigation into BCR signaling response within CLL where kinobead profiling reveals unique evidence of adaptive reprogramming in response to therapy.
Advancing clinical cohort selection with genomics analysis on a distributed platform
Authors: Smith Jaclyn M , Lathara Melvin , Wright Hollis , Hill Brian , Ganapati Nalini , Srinivasa Ganapati , Denny Christopher T
Published: November 2019

Background

The affordability of next-generation genomic sequencing and the improvement of medical data management have contributed largely to the evolution of biological analysis from both a clinical and research perspective. Precision medicine is a response to these advancements that places individuals into better-defined subsets based on shared clinical and genetic features. The identification of personalized diagnosis and treatment options is dependent on the ability to draw insights from large-scale, multi-modal analysis of biomedical datasets. Driven by a real use case, we premise that platforms that support precision medicine analysis should maintain data in their optimal data stores, should support distributed storage and query mechanisms, and should scale as more samples are added to the system.

Results

We extended a genomics-based columnar data store, GenomicsDB, for ease of use within a distributed analytics platform for clinical and genomic data integration, known as the ODA framework. The framework supports interaction from an i2b2 plugin as well as a notebook environment. We show that the ODA framework exhibits worst-case linear scaling for array size (storage), import time (data construction), and query time for an increasing number of samples. We go on to show worst-case linear time for both import of clinical data and aggregate query execution time within a distributed environment.

Conclusions

This work highlights the integration of a distributed genomic database with a distributed compute environment to support scalable and efficient precision medicine queries from a HIPAA-compliant, cohort system in a real-world setting. The ODA framework is currently deployed in production to support precision medicine exploration and analysis from clinicians and researchers at UCLA David Geffen School of Medicine.
Semantic generalization of value-based attentional priority
Authors: Grégoire Laurent , Anderson Brian A.
Published: November 2019

This study aimed to determine whether attentional prioritization of stimuli associated with reward transfers across conceptual knowledge independently of physical features. Participants successively performed two color-word Stroop tasks. In the learning phase, neutral words were associated with high, low, or no monetary reward. In the generalization phase (in which no reward was delivered), synonyms of words previously paired with reward served as Stroop stimuli. Results are consistent with semantic generalization of stimulus–reward associations, with synonyms of high-value words impairing color-naming performance, although this effect was particular to participants who were unaware of the reward contingencies.
Refinement for single-nanoparticle structure determination from low-quality single-shot coherent diffraction data
Authors: Nishiyama Toshiyuki , Niozu Akinobu , Bostedt Christoph , Ferguson Ken R. , Sato Yuhiro , Hutchison Christopher , Nagaya Kiyonobu , Fukuzawa Hironobu , Motomura Koji , Wada Shin-ichi , Sakai Tsukasa , Matsunami Kenji , Matsuda Kazuhiro , Tachibana Tetsuya , Ito Yuta , Xu Weiqing , Mondal Subhendu , Umemoto Takayuki , Nicolas Christophe , Miron Catalin , Kameshima Takashi , Joti Yasumasa , Tono Kensuke , Hatsui Takaki , Yabashi Makina , Ueda Kiyoshi
Published: November 2019

With the emergence of X-ray free-electron lasers, it is possible to investigate the structure of nanoscale samples by employing coherent diffractive imaging in the X-ray spectral regime. In this work, we developed a refinement method for structure reconstruction applicable to low-quality coherent diffraction data. The method is based on the gradient search method and considers the missing region of a diffraction pattern and the small number of detected photons. We introduced an initial estimate of the structure in the method to improve the convergence. The present method is applied to an experimental diffraction pattern of an Xe cluster obtained in an X-ray scattering experiment at the SPring-8 Angstrom Compact free-electron LAser (SACLA) facility. It is found that the electron density is successfully reconstructed from the diffraction pattern with a large missing region, with a good initial estimate of the structure. The diffraction pattern calculated from the reconstructed electron density reproduced the observed diffraction pattern well, including the characteristic intensity modulation in each ring. Our refinement method enables structure reconstruction from diffraction patterns under difficulties such as missing areas and low diffraction intensity, and it is potentially applicable to the structure determination of samples that have low scattering power.
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and DFT studies of 6-[(E)-2-(thiophen-2-yl)ethenyl]-4,5-dihydropyridazin-3(2H)-one
Authors: Daoui Said , Çınar Emine Berrin , El Kalai Fouad , Saddik Rafik , Dege Necmi , Karrouchi Khalid , Benchat Noureddine
Published: November 2019

In the title compound, C10H10N2OS, the five atoms of the thiophene ring are essentially coplanar (r.m.s. deviation = 0.0037 Å) and the pyridazine ring is non-planar. In the crystal, pairs of N—H...O hydrogen bonds link the molecules into dimers with an R
2
2(8) ring motif. The dimers are linked by C—H...O interactions, forming layers parallel to the bc plane. The theoretical geometric parameters are in good agreement with XRD results. The intermolecular interactions were investigated using a Hirshfeld surface analysis and two-dimensional fingerprint plots. The Hirshfeld surface analysis of the title compound suggests that the most significant contributions to the crystal packing are by H...H (39.7%), C...H/H...C (17.3%) and O...H/H...O (16.8%) contacts.
Making sense of an innovation in a safety-critical megaproject
Authors: Aaltonen Kirsi , Gotcheva Nadezhda , Kujala Jaakko , Artto Karlos
Published: November 2019

Purpose

In megaprojects, changes in scope and organization may occur continuously. The purpose of this paper is to investigate how actors in a project network make sense of a safety-related process innovation introduced during the design phase.

Design/methodology/approach

An inductive single case study of an ongoing nuclear power plant project in Europe was employed to elucidate sensemaking processes using a narrative approach.

Findings

The empirical analysis yielded nine distinct narratives regarding the innovation each advancing a different account of the rationale for implementing the new method, and the subjects, objects and implications of the change. The findings suggest that actors’ differing framings of innovation may increase ambiguity and equivocality.

Originality/value

These insights augment existing knowledge of innovation management and system safety in safety-critical megaprojects by revealing project actors’ discrepant sensemaking processes with regard to innovations. To successfully manage sensemaking and its consequences for innovation adoption, managers need to take account of any such discrepancies in sensemaking processes.
Towards a welfare system that produces inequality? Interpreting the new conditions of inclusion and exclusion in two Italian cases in a macro-micro-macro perspective
Authors: De Vita Luisa , Lucciarini Silvia
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the mechanisms through which social inequality is produced and reproduced, beginning from an examination of the close interrelationship between the macro level of policy and institutional action and the micro level of activity by a variety of actors.

Design/methodology/approach

Referring specifically to Italy and considering exemplary cases, namely the conditions of esodati and new self-employed workers, this paper seeks to provide a more organic interpretation of the differential effects of specific national policies and imminent shifts in the productive system on the individuals affected by them. To describe the Italian context in an international perspective, at the macro level, the authors analyze this phenomenon using the famous worlds of welfare regime developed by Esping-Andersen and the varieties of capitalism formulated by Hall and Soskice, whereas at the micro level, the authors analyze the dynamic relations between individual and institutional factors that generate inequalities.

Findings

The paper seeks to highlight the complexity of new conditions of marginality, stressing the importance of a comprehensive approach.

Originality/value

So far there have been few attempts in Italy to explore the possibility of implementing the kind of “mixed” social support measures seen in other countries. In a variable way on the basis of specific needs, such measures encompass services and cash benefits as well as income, housing and employment support. This approach might represent a scalable and modular solution that lends itself well to the country’s already significant socio-economic segmentation.
Smart destination brands: semiotic analysis of visual and verbal signs
Authors: Gretzel Ulrike , Collier de Mendonça Maria
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Smart tourism is a destination management approach that requires the buy-in of a myriad of stakeholders. Its many audiences and complexity demand the creation of meaningful brands to effectively position and communicate smart tourism initiatives. The purpose of this paper is to explore how smart tourism branding strategies have been implemented to communicate relevant values, benefits and attributes to industry stakeholders through institutional websites.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a semiotic analysis of two smart tourism-related sites (destinosinteligentes.es and smarttourismcapital.eu), the research interprets the brand-related visual and verbal signs.

Findings

The findings highlight how brand elements embedded in websites communicate a brand identity and facilitate particular interpretations of smart tourism. Both brands use similar signs to promote a techtopian vision of smart destinations but employ different strategies to motivate stakeholder buy-in.

Research limitations/implications

Smart tourism is currently largely embedded in overall smart city initiatives and finding tourism-specific examples online is difficult. However, the two selected websites reflect the brands of multiple destinations and permit a detailed analysis of meaning making. Future research can focus on how brand-related signs are perceived by different stakeholders.

Practical implications

Identifying the strategies and shortcomings of current smart tourism brands informs future smart tourism branding efforts and effective communication with smart tourism stakeholders.

Originality/value

Semiotics is a relevant but underutilized method to understand how smart tourism initiatives conceptualize “smartness.”
A scuffing model considering additive depletion in boundary lubrication
Authors: Lee Bora , Yu Yonghun , Cho Yong-Joo
Published: November 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a new scuffing model caused by the depletion of additives in boundary lubrication condition.

Design/methodology/approach

The differential equation governing the distribution of additive content in the fluid film was used. This formula was derived from the principle of mass conservation of additives considering the consumption due to surface adsorption of wear particles. The occurrence of scuffing was determined by comparing the wear rate of the oxide layer with the oxidation rate.

Findings

If the additive becomes depleted while sliding, the scuffing failure occurs even at a low-temperature condition below the critical temperature. The critical sliding distance at which scuffing failure occurred was suggested. The experimental data of the existing literature and the theoretical prediction using the proposed model are shown to be in good agreement.

Originality/value

It is expected to be used in the design of oil supply grooves for sliding bearings operating under extreme conditions or in selecting the minimum initial additive concentration required to avoid scuffing failure under given contact conditions.
A cross-cultural analysis of perceived product quality, perceived risk and purchase intention in e-commerce platforms
Authors: Rosillo-Díaz Elena , Blanco-Encomienda Francisco Javier , Crespo-Almendros Esmeralda
Published: November 2019

Purpose

While there have always been cultural differences between countries and between individuals, the virtualisation of markets is rendering the impact of these differences even more salient. There is clear evidence that cultural dimensions are relevant in the adoption and use of e-commerce. The purpose of this paper is to analyse the significant effects of individual cultural dimensions on perceived product quality, perceived risk and purchase intention in e-commerce platforms.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was developed to serve as a tool of measurement. A confirmatory factor analysis was conducted to examine whether all the indicators for the constructs are reliable. A multiple regression analysis was carried out to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results reveal that, in the case of e-commerce platforms, the cultural dimensions uncertainty-avoidance and collectivism exert a significant influence on perceived product quality, perceived risk and purchase intention.

Research limitations/implications

The present study is based on real well-known e-commerce platforms which could have influenced the responses of the sample due to potential past experiences of use. An experimental design based on fictitious platforms could offer more objective findings.

Practical implications

This research contributes to the understanding of e-commerce and the behaviour of consumers during online purchasing, taking into account the cultural differences that may exist between them.

Originality/value

The literature on individual cultural dimensions – that is, non-national cases – and the variables analysed in the present study suffers from great limitations. This study complements a growing interest in analysing the individual cultural dimensions and their effects on the sphere of e-commerce, specifically on perceived product quality, purchase intention and perceived risk during browsing, measured in terms of the six types of risk prevalent in e-commerce platforms.
Conceptualising digital transformation in SMEs: an ecosystemic perspective
Authors: Pelletier Claudia , Cloutier L. Martin
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Supported by a service ecosystem that is increasingly immersed into digital transformation, small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) have access to turnkey information technology (IT) applications, which may come free of charge but not free of concerns. The purpose of this paper is to explore a group conceptualisation and associated perceptions of IT issues within an ecosystem that includes three subgroup profiles: entrepreneurs, IT professionals and socioeconomic support professionals.

Design/methodology/approach

Using group concept mapping, a bottom-up and participatory mixed methods-based approach, a concept map was estimated, based on a list of items, to define seven clusters pertaining to issues and challenges of adoption and use of turnkey IT applications in SMEs of less than 20 employees. Perceptions measures of relative importance and feasibility were obtained by subgroup profiles.

Findings

The relative importance and relative feasibility measures for the seven clusters indicate significant statistical differences in ratings among the subgroup profiles. A discussion on the importance of relational capital in addressing challenges of digital transformation in SMEs is developed.

Originality/value

Results highlight signifiant differences concerning key dimensions in the adoption and use of IT from the perspective of three subgroup profiles of actors within the ecosystem. First, the results stress the need to develop a shared understanding of IT challenges. Second, they suggest policymakers could use these conceptual representations to further develop and strengthen the IT-related support agenda for SMEs, especially the smaller ones (e.g. training programs, business support and coaching initiatives, etc.).
The influence of organisational culture on leadership style in higher education institutions
Authors: Akanji Babatunde , Mordi Chima , Ituma Afam , Adisa Toyin Ajibade , Ajonbadi Hakeem
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the impact of organisational culture (OC) on leadership styles in Nigerian universities. The study utilises the cultural dimensions theory (Hofstede’s insights) and the social exchange concept as theoretical lenses to examine the phenomena.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an exploratory qualitative approach, 40 interviews were conducted with senior academics and non-teaching staff working in Nigerian universities.

Findings

The findings reveal hierarchical, patriarchal, servile, and interdependent values as the underlying characteristics of organisation culture, shaping the choice of leadership styles in the management of Nigerian universities. As a result, it emerged from the study that positional, formalised exchanges, paternalism, relational approach and gendered reactions to leadership were typically adopted in university administration in this context.

Research limitations/implications

The study relies on a small qualitative sample size, which makes the generalisation of findings difficult. However, the study provides a good understanding of cultural hegemony, framing leadership styles different from those of western cultures.

Originality/value

The findings of this study help to bridge the research gap concerning the implications of OC, and its influence on leadership behaviours in the Sub-Saharan African context. Research within this subfield in Africa is rare. Specifically, the study also enriches our understanding of cultural dimensions, informing the leadership methods adopted in higher education institutions.
An exploration of quality management practices in the manufacturing industry of Ethiopia
Authors: Addis Sisay
Published: November 2019

Purpose

Total quality management (TQM) has long been viewed as a strategy to attain business excellence. However, it is relatively a new concept in the context of emerging economies. Particularly, this is far beyond the reality in the context of African countries, in general. The purpose of this paper is to study the current state of TQM implementation in the manufacturing industry of Ethiopia (MIE). The study also focuses on several comparisons, between large and medium companies, and ISO and non-ISO companies with regard to the adoption of TQM practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The study draws on top- and middle-level managers from sample companies. Data were collected using a structured survey questionnaire. After testing scale reliability and validity, descriptive and factor analysis were used for the data analysis.

Findings

The findings, in general, indicated that Ethiopian manufacturers have implemented TQM at a moderate level (grand mean value of 2.86 on 0–5 scale). It is revealed that ISO companies are significantly adopted TQM practices than non-ISO companies, whereas no difference was found between large and medium companies.

Originality/value

Given the importance of understanding TQM and paucity of research on the topic in Ethiopia, the study provides practical insights and groundwork that can guide practitioners to understand the drivers of TQM in the region. Particularly, the study is useful to plan corrective actions on practices that are likely to obstruct TQM implementation in the MIE. Moreover, the study adds to the empirical literature that may yield important insights on TQM for under-researched emerging economies, particularly for the eastern part of Africa, where nations share similar cross-cultural norms, economic, social and ethnic settings.
Involving patients in quality improvements – a case study
Authors: Robinson Åsa , Finizia Caterina , Gustavsson Susanne
Published: November 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to illuminate strengths and limitations in quality improvement work, when involving patients.

Design/methodology/approach

The experience-based co-design (EBCD) method was used when improving care for patients undergoing otosclerosis surgery. Individual interviews and focus groups were interpreted using qualitative content analysis.

Findings

Strengths mentioned by patients were that their participation made a difference. The first steps were found effective in giving an in-depth view of patients’ experiences and the staff got an increased understanding about specific patient needs. However, weaknesses were found in the latter phases, those of improving and follow-up, health care staff had difficulties to keep their focus on patients’ experiences and invite patients to be involved. Patients’ participation decreased, and there was a lack of tools to support the process.

Research limitations/implications

The content in this paper is mainly based on one case. However, the findings are in congruence with earlier research and add further knowledge to the research area.

Practical implications

The findings can be used in healthcare when involving patients in improvement work.

Originality/value

There is no earlier study which involves patients with otosclerosis when using EBCD. Furthermore, this paper illuminates that there is a need to increase collaboration with patients. The latter phases often seem to be handled by health care professionals without involving patients; this paper suggest a development using dedicated quality tools.
Population history explains the performance of an annual herb – Within and beyond its European species range
Authors: Douda Jan , Doudová Jana , Hodková Eva , Vít Petr , Krak Karol , Mandák Bohumil
Published: November 2019

The centre–periphery hypothesis (CPH) predicts a decrease in population performance from the centre of the species range towards the edge, hindering further species expansion. To overcome ecological limitation, local adaptation of peripheral populations is assumed necessary to extend niche space and thus to potentially facilitate species’ range expansion. However, adaptive changes do not necessarily correspond to current ecological marginality. Instead, population history may provide a fuller context for understanding patterns of local adaptation within the species range. Here, we test whether local adaptation to current conditions or population history explains current species distribution in an annual heterocarpic species,Atriplex tatarica,in Europe.

The ecological marginality and population history were estimated using species distribution modelling (SDM) and 13 microsatellite markers. To test for local adaptation, we evaluated the population performance of both currently central and currently peripheral populations by examining germination and growth traits under three temperature regimes which correspond to climates within, and also beyond, the species’ current range. In addition, we compared Bayesian estimates of population differentiation in neutral genetic markers and quantitative traits to test whether phenotypic differentiation evolved by local adaptation and/or by genetic drift.

We found population performances were not higher under temperature regimes corresponding to their own habitats, suggesting that patterns of local adaptation inA. tataricado not correspond to current centre–periphery gradient. In contrast, population genetic structure indicated a strong influence of population history on variation in the germination phenotype. Species distribution modelling suggested a more cold–tolerant genetic lineage was located at the species' range periphery during the last glacial period. Meanwhile, a less cold‐tolerant lineage occurred in more suitable areas of the Balkan Peninsula and southeastern Europe. Thus, the strong adaptive divergence of evolutionary lineages may reflect a past spatial arrangement of populations, suggesting evolutionary processes were ongoing before the species expansion in the Holocene.

Synthesis. There is continuing debate concerning the speed of trait evolution during range expansion with climate change. Our results indicate that even though organisms expand rapidly, the accompanying evolutionary changes in phenotype may be much slower.
Involvement of miR‐200b–PKCα signalling in pulmonary hypertension in cor pulmonale model
Authors: Qian Xiaojun , Zhao Hongqin , Feng Qiuting
Published: November 2019

The right ventricle (RV) enlargement and pulmonary fibrosis are involved in cor pulmonale. The role of miR‐200b in cor pulmonale is less well understood. This study was designed to evaluate the regulatory roles of miR‐200b in cor pulmonale. Cor pulmonary mouse model was built via monocrotaline injection of monocrotaline (MCT). The expression of miR‐200b in the lungs, RV and left ventricle (LV) are using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. The transthoracic echocardiography was employed to determine the effects of miR‐200b mimics and Gö6976 injection on MCT mice. The protein levels of protein kinase C α (PKCα), collagen, and fibronectin in the lung, RV, and LV in the mice with and without miR‐200b mimics and Gö6976 injection were evaluated using western blot. The expression of miR‐200b decreased in MCT mice, while there was no difference in LV. Both the miR‐200b mimics and Gö6976 injection reversed the muscularization in the pulmonary artery, reversed RV hypertrophy, reduced RV systolic pressure, wall thickness and pulmonary fibrosis. The injection of miR‐200b can reduce the PKCα expression in the lung, RV, and LV. This study confirmed the down‐regulation of miR‐200b in cor pulmonale. The reverse effects of miR‐200b in the present study may provide a potential tool for cor pulmonary treatment.
Corporate social responsibility and strategic trade policy: An endogenous timing game and its policy implications
Authors: Cho Sumi , Lee Sang‐Ho , Hoang Xoan T.
Published: November 2019

This study incorporates the corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives of a domestic firm and analyses strategic trade policy towards a foreign firm in a different market structure. We show that the tariff rate under a foreign (domestic) firm's leadership is lowest when the degree of CSR is large (small). We also show that the foreign firm's leadership yields the highest welfare when the degree of CSR is intermediate, while the domestic firm's leadership yields the highest welfare otherwise. In an endogenous‐timing game, we show that a simultaneous‐move outcome is the unique equilibrium when the degree of CSR is small; thus, it is never socially desirable. We also show that the domestic firm's leadership can be an equilibrium, which results in the highest welfare when the degree of CSR is large. Finally, when the degree of CSR is large, collusive behaviours between the domestic and foreign firms can increase welfare.
National benefits, local costs? Local residents' views on environmental and social effects of large‐scale mining in Chingola, Zambia
Authors: Kolala Chomba , Bwalya Umar Bridget
Published: November 2019

This study examined the environmental and social effects of large‐scale mining in Chingola, Zambia. Data was collected through semi‐structured interviews with 164 residents living close to Zambia's largest open pit mine, key informants and desk analysis of secondary data. Quantitative data was analysed using the chi‐square test, one sample T‐test and two sample Z‐proportions test, while qualitative data was analysed using content analysis. Results show that the residents reported being most affected by sulphur dioxide air emissions and noise pollution due to the proximity of the copper smelter and heavy moving machinery to their residences. The residents received domestic water containing rust and copper ore particles from the water utility company which draws raw water from the mine. Although the mine was a source of employment for locals, over 4,000 jobs (representing a 33% decrease) have been lost over a period of 4 years, negatively affecting the local economy. Mine management attributed the job losses to high production costs and mechanization of mining processes. The residents perceived the job losses to have led to crime, alcohol abuse and prostitution among youths as well as a general increase in poverty levels. Analysis of air emissions data from the mine found elevated levels of dust, cadmium, copper and lead pollutants. Key informants from Nchanga Mine reported implementing bioremediation to reduce soil contamination by the heavy metals and recycling SO2 to produce sulphuric acid. The study recommends an increase in social corporate responsibility from the mine management to ensure residents derive more substantive benefits from their proximity to the mine.
Cultivating Cosmopolitans: Culturally Relevant Pedagogy in an Age of Instrumentalism
Authors: Liu Roseann
Published: November 2019

Families today are using culturally relevant pedagogy (CRP)—a social justice pedagogy that incorporates marginalized cultural practices into the classroom—to cultivate their children into future cosmopolitan professionals. Asian American, black, and Latinx families rationalize that CRP helps their children learn “a little bit of everything” and be “open minded.” Students find value in learning about cultures they consider different from their own and in learning Mandarin because of China’s emergence as a global economic power.