bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The discriminant pattern of pleural fluid inflammatory mediators between tuberculosis and other causes of exudative pleural effusion
Authors: Lisboa Vinícius da Cunha , da Silva Corrêa Raquel , Ribeiro-Alves Marcelo , Lopes Isabelle Ramos , Mafort Thiago Thomaz , Gomes dos Santos Ana Paula , Amadeu Thaís Porto , Rufino Alves Rogério Lopes , Rodrigues Luciana Silva
Published: June 2019

Pleural tuberculosis (PlTB), a form of extrapulmonary TB, remains as a challenge in the diagnosis among many causes of pleural effusion. We recently reported that the combinatorial analysis of interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), IFN-γ-inducible protein 10 (IP-10), and adenosine deaminase (ADA) from the pleural microenvironment was useful to distinguish pleural effusion caused by TB (microbiologically or not confirmed cases) among other etiologies. In this prospective cohort study, a set of inflammatory mediators was quantified in blood and pleural fluid (PF) from exudative pleural effusion cases, including PlTB (n = 22) and non-PlTB (NTB; n= 17) patients. The levels of IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-10, IL-17A, IFN-γ, TNF, IP-10, TGF-β1, and ADA were measured and a principal component analysis was applied in order to identify the mediators who contributed most for the variance in data. IFN-γ, IP-10, TNF, TGF-β, and ADA quantified in PF showed significantly higher concentrations in PlTB patients when compared to NTB ones. When blood and PF were compared, we have identified significantly higher concentrations of IL-6 and IL-10 in PF, in both groups. TGF-β, solely, showed significantly increased levels in PF and blood from PlTB when both clinical specimens were compared to NTB patients. Principal components analysis from PF revealed that the ADA, IP-10, TGF-β, and IFN-γ contributed most for the discriminatory capacity between TPlB and NTB. Our findings showed that important inflammatory mediators in PF may discriminate TB cases from other causes of exudative effusion, the main diseases considered in the differential diagnosis of PlTB.
Deep Learning-Enabled Point-of-Care Sensing Using Multiplexed Paper-Based Sensors
Authors: Ballard Zachary , Joung Hyou-Arm , Goncharov Artem , Liang Jesse , Nugroho Karina , Di Carlo Dino , Garner Omai B. , Ozcan Aydogan
Published: June 2019

We present a deep learning-based framework to design and quantify point-of-care sensors. As its proof-of-concept and use-case, we demonstrated a low-cost and rapid paper-based vertical flow assay (VFA) for high sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hsCRP) testing, a common medical test used for quantifying the degree of inflammation in patients at risk of cardio-vascular disease (CVD). A machine learning-based sensor design framework was developed for two key tasks: (1) to determine an optimal configuration of immunoreaction spots and conditions, spatially-multiplexed on a paper-based sensing membrane, and (2) to accurately infer the target analyte concentration based on the signals of the optimal VFA configuration. Using a custom-designed mobile-phone based VFA reader, a clinical study was performed with 85 human serum samples to characterize the quantification accuracy around the clinically defined cutoffs for CVD risk stratification. Results from blindly-tested VFAs indicate a competitive coefficient of variation of 11.2% with a linearity of R2 = 0.95; in addition to the success in the high-sensitivity CRP range (i.e., 0-10 mg/L), our results further demonstrate a mitigation of the hook-effect at higher CRP concentrations due to the incorporation of antigen capture spots within the multiplexed sensing membrane of the VFA. This paper-based computational VFA that is powered by deep learning could expand access to CVD health screening, and the presented machine learning-enabled sensing framework can be broadly used to design cost-effective and mobile sensors for various point-of-care diagnostics applications.
Morphological differences between phyllosoma larvae from the western–central and eastern Pacific populations of the pronghorn spiny lobster Panulirus penicillatus
Authors: Matsuda Hirokazu , Sakai Mitsuo , Yanagimoto Takashi , Chow Seinen
Published: June 2019

The pronghorn spiny lobster Panulirus penicillatus is known to have the widest distribution among palinurid lobster species, occurring in tropical and sub-tropical areas of the Indo-Pacific Ocean. In the Pacific Ocean, mitochondrial DNA analyses have revealed that the western–central and eastern populations are genetically isolated. We performed morphological investigations on mid- to late-stage phyllosoma larvae collected in these two areas. The larvae of the western–central population had a significantly narrower cephalic shield, shorter abdomen, and longer eyestalk than those of the eastern population. Additionally, for larvae larger than about 25-mm body length, the widest position of the cephalic shield in the western–central population was located closer to the middle of the median line of the cephalic shield than that in the eastern population. The ratio of width to length of cephalic shield and the ratio of cephalic shield width to thorax width are key traits for distinguishing between the larvae of the two populations.
Differentiation of Urine-Derived Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells to Neuron, Astrocyte and Microvascular Endothelial Cells from a Diabetic Patient
Authors: Liu Wan , Zhang Ping , Tan Jing , Lin Yongzhong
Published: June 2019

Background

Complications of central nervous system (CNS) in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) often lead to cognitive impairment and seriously affect the quality of life. However, there is no individualized disease model. Urinary epithelial cells (UECs) can be an ideal source for generating human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) and progenitors, as they are easily accessible, non-invasive and universally available. Therefore, we intended to differentiate urine-derived hiPSCs into neuron (N), astrocyte (A) and microvascular endothelial cells (E) from a T2DM patient for future study its pathogenesis and precision medical treatment.

Methods and Results

hiPSCs was successfully induced from UECs using integration free Sendai virus technology in a totally noninvasive manner. It had a normal karyotype (46, XY) and were proved to be pluripotent by immunofluorescence staining, alkaline phosphatase staining, karyotyping, teratoma experiments and methylated analysis. N, A and E were successfully induced and displayed typical morphological characteristics.

Conclusions

This study indicates that N, A, E can be generated from urine-derived hiPSCs. Then we intend to create a new disease model in vitro to simulate the cerebral microenvironment of DM which will provide new methods for further investigate the disease-specific mechanisms.
Uncovering thousands of new HLA antigens and phosphopeptides with deep learning-based sequence-mask-search de novo peptide sequencing framework
Authors: Karunratanakul Korrawe , Tang Hsin-Yao , Speicher David W. , Chuangsuwanich Ekapol , Sriswasdi Sira
Published: June 2019

Typical analyses of mass spectrometry data only identify amino acid sequences that exist in reference databases. This restricts the possibility of discovering new peptides such as those that contain uncharacterized mutations or originate from unexpected processing of RNAs and proteins. De novo peptide sequencing approaches address this limitation but often suffer from low accuracy and require extensive validation by experts. Here, we develop SMSNet, a deep learning-based hybrid de novo peptide sequencing framework that achieves >95% amino acid accuracy while retaining good identification coverage. Applications of SMSNet on landmark proteomics and peptideomics studies reveal over 10,000 previously uncharacterized HLA antigens and phosphopeptides and in conjunction with database-search methods, expand the coverage of peptide identification by almost 30%. The power to accurately identify new peptides of SMSNet would make it an invaluable tool for any future proteomics and peptidomics studies – especially cancer neoantigen discovery and proteome characterization of non-model organisms.
Accurate detection of non-proliferative diabetic retinopathy in optical coherence tomography images using convolutional neural networks
Authors: Ghazal Mohammed , Ali Samr , Mahmoud Ali , Shalaby Ahmed , El-Baz Ayman
Published: June 2019

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a disease that forms as a complication of diabetes, It is particularly dangerous since it often goes unnoticed and can lead to blindness if not detected early. Despite the clear importance and urgency of such an illness, there is no precise system for the early detection of DR so far. Fortunately, such system could be achieved using deep learning including convolutional neural networks (CNNs), which gained momentum in the field of medical imaging due to its capability of being effectively integrated into various systems in a manner that significantly improves the performance. This paper proposes a computer aided diagnostic (CAD) system for the early detection of non-proliferative DR (NPDR) using CNNs. The proposed system is developed for the optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging modality. Throughout this paper, all aspects of deployment of the proposed system are studied starting from the preprocessing stage required to extract input data to train the CNN without resizing the image, to the use of transfer learning principals and how best to combine features in order to optimize performance. A novel patch extraction framework for preprocessing is presented, followed by fovea detection algorithm, in addition to investigating the various CNN parameters for optimal deployment. Optimum CNN parameters and promising results are achieved. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first CNN-based DR early detection CAD system for OCT images. It achieves a promising accuracy of 94% with transfer learning.
Socioeconomic Differentials in Hypertension based on JNC7 and ACC/AHA 2017 Guidelines Mediated by Body Mass Index: Evidence from Nepal Demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Rana Juwel , Ahmmad Zobayer , Sen Kanchan Kumar , Bista Sanjeev , Islam Rakibul M
Published: June 2019

Background

Unlike developed countries; higher socioeconomic status (SES, education, and wealth) is associated with hypertension in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) with limited evidence. We examined the associations between SES and hypertension in Nepal and the extent to which these associations vary by sex and urbanity. The body mass index (BMI) was examined as a secondary outcome and assessed as a potential mediator.

Materials and methods

We analyzed the latest Nepal Demographic and Health Survey data (N=13,436) collected between June 2016 and January 2017, using a multistage stratified sampling technique. Participants aged 15 years or older from selected households were interviewed with an overall response rate of 97%. Main outcomes were hypertension and normal blood pressure defined by the widely used Seventh Report of the Joint National Committee (JNC 7), and the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) 2017.

Results

The prevalence of hypertension was higher in Nepalese men than women. The likelihood of having hypertension was more than double for individuals in the highest versus lowest wealth quintiles [men: OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.60-2.85); women: OR 2.54, 95% CI 2.00- 3.24] and for individuals with the higher education versus no education [men: OR 2.38, 95% CI 1.75-3.23; women: OR 1.63, 95% CI 1.18-2.25]. The associations between SES and hypertension were different by sex and urbanity. These associations were mediated by BMI.

Conclusions

Higher SES was positively associated with the higher likelihood of having hypertension in Nepal according to both JNC 7 and ACC/AHA 2017 guidelines. These associations were mediated by BMI, which may help to explain broader socioeconomic differentials in CVD and related risk factors, particularly in terms of education and wealth. Our study suggests that the mediating factor of BMI should be tackled to diminish the risk of CVD in people with higher SES in LMICs.
Multi-objective optimisation of material properties and strut geometry for poly(L-lactic acid) coronary stents using response surface methodology
Authors: Blair R.W. , Dunne N.J. , Lennon A.B. , Menary G.H.
Published: June 2019

Coronary stents for treating atherosclerosis are traditionally manufactured from metallic alloys. However, metal stents permanently reside in the body and may trigger undesirable immunological responses. Bioresorbable polymer stents can provide a temporary scaffold that resorbs once the artery heals but are mechanically inferior, requiring thicker struts for equivalent radial support, which may increase thrombosis risk. This study addresses the challenge of designing mechanically effective but sufficiently thin poly(L-lactic acid) stents through a computational approach that optimises material properties and stent geometry. Forty parametric stent designs were generated: cross-sectional area (post-dilation), foreshortening, stent-to-artery ratio and radial collapse pressure were evaluated computationally using finite element analysis. Response surface methodology was used to identify performance trade-offs by formulating relationships between design parameters and response variables. Multi-objective optimisation was used to identify suitable stent designs from approximated Pareto fronts and an optimal design is proposed that offers comparable performance to designs in clinical practice. In summary, a computational framework has been developed that has potential application in the design of high stiffness, thin strut polymeric stents that contend with the performance of their metallic counterparts.
Health care seeking behavior and associated factor among mothers/caregivers of under-five children with acute diarrhea in Dangila zuria Woreda, North west Ethiopia
Authors: Nega Biresaw , Bogale Kassawmar Angaw , Nigussie Zelalem Mehari
Published: June 2019

Introduction

Health care seeking interventions can reduce child mortality from easily treatable diseases, however, significant numbers of children die by diarrheal disease due to delays in seeking care in Ethiopia. Thus, the aim of this study was assessed health care seeking behavior and associated factors among mothers/caregivers of under-five children with acute diarrhea in Dangila zuria Woreda, North West Ethiopia, 2018.

Method

Community-based cross-sectional study design was conducted using structured questionnaires. Data were entered Epi Data Version 3.1 and analyzed using SPSS Version 23. Descriptive statistics were used to examine patterns of health care seeking behavior and multivariable logistic regression analysis was applied to identify factors associated with health care seeking behavior

Result

The magnitude of health care seeking behavior of mothers/caregivers of under-five children with acute diarrhea was found to be 77.7%. Primary level of education [AOR = 2.0; 95% (CI (1.1-3.9)], sex of child (male) [AOR = 1.7; 95% (CI 1.1-2.6)], availability of health facilities within 60 minutes walking distance [AOR = 2.4; 95 %(CI 1.4-4.1)], severity of illness [AOR=7.5; 95% (CI 3.7-15.2)], two or more under-five children in the family [AOR=0.6;95% (CI 0.4-0.9)], perceived cause of acute diarrhea, (new teeth [AOR =0.3;95% (CI 0.2-0.5)] were significantly associated with health care seeking behavior of mothers/caregivers.

Conclusion

Increasing the proximity of health facilities and educate mothers/caregivers about the importance of health care seeking behavior and cause of acute diarrhea were recommended to improve health care seeking behavior.
A novel synthetic-genetic-array–based yeast one-hybrid system for high discovery rate and short processing time
Authors: Yeh Chung-Shu , Wang Zhifeng , Miao Fang , Ma Hongyan , Kao Chung-Ting , Hsu Tzu-Shu , Yu Jhong-He , Hung Er-Tsi , Lin Chia-Chang , Kuan Chen-Yu , Tsai Ni-Chiao , Zhou Chenguang , Qu Guan-Zheng , Jiang Jing , Liu Guifeng , Wang Jack P. , Li Wei , Chiang Vincent L. , Chang Tien-Hsien , Lin Ying-Chung Jimmy
Published: June 2019

Eukaryotic gene expression is often tightly regulated by interactions between transcription factors (TFs) and their DNA cis targets. Yeast one-hybrid (Y1H) is one of the most extensively used methods to discover these interactions. We developed a high-throughput meiosis-directed yeast one-hybrid system using the Magic Markers of the synthetic genetic array analysis. The system has a transcription factor–DNA interaction discovery rate twice as high as the conventional diploid-mating approach and a processing time nearly one-tenth of the haploid-transformation method. The system also offers the highest accuracy in identifying TF–DNA interactions that can be authenticated in vivo by chromatin immunoprecipitation. With these unique features, this meiosis-directed Y1H system is particularly suited for constructing novel and comprehensive genome-scale gene regulatory networks for various organisms.
Design and synthesis of methyl 2-{[4-phenyl-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl]sulfanyl}acetate (phpy2NS) as a ligand for complexes of Group 12 elements: structural assessment and hydrogen-bonded supramolecular assembly analysis
Authors: Castiñeiras Alfonso , García-Santos Isabel , Saa Manuel
Published: June 2019

The reaction of 2-cyanopyridine with N-phenylthiosemicarbazide afforded 2-[amino(pyridin-2-yl)methylidene]-N-phenylhydrazine-1-carbothioamide (Ham4ph) and crystals of 4-phenyl-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-2,4-dihydro-3H-1,2,4-triazole-3-thione (pyph3NS, 1, C13H10N4S). Crystals of methyl 2-{[4-phenyl-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl]sulfanyl}acetate (phpy2NS, 2, C16H14N4O2S), derived from 1, were obtained by the reaction of Ham4ph with chloroacetic acid, followed by the acid-catalyzed esterification of the carboxylic acid with methyl alcohol. Crystals of bis(methanol-κO)bis(methyl 2-{[4-phenyl-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl-κ2
N
1,N
5]sulfanyl}acetato)zinc(II)/cadmium(II) hexabromidocadmate(II), [Zn0.76Cd0.24(C16H14N4O2S)2(CH3OH)2][Cd2Br6] or [Zn0.76Cd0.24(phpy2NS)2(MeOH)2][Cd2Br6], 3, and dichlorido(methyl 2-{[4-phenyl-5-(pyridin-2-yl)-4H-1,2,4-triazol-3-yl-κ2
N
1,N
5]sulfanyl}acetato)mercury(II), [HgCl2(C16H14N4O2S)] or [Hg(phpy2NS)Cl2], 4, were synthesized using ligand 2 and CdBr2 or HgCl2, respectively. The molecular and supramolecular structures of the compounds were studied by X-ray diffractometry. The asymmetric unit of 3 is formed from CdBr3 and M(phpy2NS)(MeOH) units, where the metal centre M has a 76% occupancy of ZnII and 24% of CdII. The M
2+ centre of the cation, located on a crystallographic inversion centre, is hexacoordinated and appears as a slightly distorted octahedral [MN4O2]2+ cation. The Cd centre of the anion is coordinated by two terminal bromide ligands and two bridging bromide ligands that generate [Cd2Br6]2− cadmium–bromide clusters. These clusters display crystallographic inversion symmetry forming two edge-shared tetrahedra and serve as agents that direct the structure in the formation of supramolecular assemblies. In mononuclear complex 4, the coordination geometry around the Hg2+ ion is distorted tetrahedral and comprises two chloride ligands and two N-atom donors from the phpy2NS ligand, viz. one pyridine N atom and the other from triazole. In the crystal packing, all four compounds exhibit weak intermolecular interactions, which facilitate the formation of three-dimensional architectures. Along with the noncovalent interactions, the structural diversity in the complexes can be attributed to the metal centre and to the coordination geometry, as well as to its ionic or neutral character.
K3Eu5(PO4)6: hydrothermal synthesis, crystal structure and photoluminescence properties
Authors: Xue Ya-Li , Zhang Ai-Yun , Han Xiao-Yang , Cui Xiao-Qi , Deng Ling , Zhou Yi-Xiang , Yu Ya-Ping , Zhao Dan
Published: June 2019

An anhydrous orthophosphate, K3Eu5(PO4)6 (tripotassium pentaeuropium hexaphosphate), has been prepared by a high-temperature solid-state reaction combined with hydrothermal synthesis, and its crystal structure was determined by single-crystal X-ray diffraction analysis (SC-XRD). The results show that the compound crystallizes in the monoclinic space group C2/c and the structure features a three-dimensional framework of [Eu5(PO4)6]∞, with the tunnel filled by K+ ions. The IR spectrum, UV–Vis spectrum and luminescence properties of polycrystalline samples of K3Eu5(PO4)6, annealed at temperatures of 650, 700, 750, 800 and 850 °C, were investigated. Although with a full Eu3+ concentration (9.96 × 1021 ions cm−3), the self-activated phosphor K3Eu5(PO4)6 shows s strong luminescence emission intensity with a quantum yield of 37%. Under near-UV light excitation (393 nm), the series of samples shows the characteristic emissions of Eu3+ ions in the visible region from 575 to 715 nm. The sample sintered at 800 °C gives the strongest emission and its lifetime sintered at 800 °C (1.88 ms) is also the longest of all.
Bis[benzyl 2-(heptan-4-ylidene)hydrazine-1-carboxylate]bis(thiocyanato)cobalt(II)
Authors: Nithya Palanivelu , Govindarajan Subbiah , Simpson Jim
Published: June 2019

The title compound, [Co(NCS)2(C15H22N2O2)2] or C32H44CoN6O4S2, was prepared from cobalt(II) nitrate, benzyl carbazate and ammonium thiocyanate in the presence of 4-heptanone. The compound crystallizes with two centrosymmetric complexes in which the cobalt(II) atoms have a trans-CoO2N4 octahedral coordination geometry. In the crystal, N—H...S, C—H...S and C—H....π contacts stack the complex molecules along the b-axis direction.
Exploring the female autism phenotype of repetitive behaviours and restricted interests (RBRIs): a systematic PRISMA review
Authors: Allely Clare
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the need for increased understanding, awareness and recognition of the autism female phenotype in terms of repetitive behaviours and restricted interests (RBRIs).

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic PRISMA review was conducted. The main aim of the present systematic review is to identify studies which have investigated RBRIs in females with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or the differences in RBRIs between males and females with ASD.

Findings

In sum, 19 relevant articles were identified: 5 studies found no significant evidence to support the notion of sex differences in RRBIs in ASD; 1 study did not report any differences in RRBIs between males and females with ASD; 12 studies found evidence that males with ASD had significantly more RRBIs compared to females with ASD; and, lastly, 1 study found that girls with ASD have features of RRBIs which are exhibited more compared to boys with ASD.

Research limitations/implications

There is a real lack of in-depth knowledge and understanding of the female phenotype of ASD, and such lack of knowledge has a detrimental impact on the identification of autistic females and a lack of identification can have negative consequence. This is important to address in future research as it is well established that the earlier the diagnosis, the better the outcomes, due to the timely access to appropriate interventions.

Practical implications

The RBRIs exhibited in autistic females are not sufficiently captured by most currently diagnostic instruments. Clinicians are less likely to identify the RBRIs in females as they tend not to be the typical repetitive behaviours commonly associated with ASD. It has been recommended that clinicians consider “females as a whole” in terms of their clinical presentation and look for any indication of RBRIs, even repetitive interests which appear clinically innocuous.

Originality/value

There is relatively little research investigating RBRIs in autistic women and girls. There is a real need to highlight the importance of understanding and recognising how RBRIs can differ between males and females with ASD.
The logic of four decades of economic reform and major breakthroughs in political economy in China
Authors: Hong Yinxing
Published: June 2019

Purpose

In the process of reform, although every landmark theoretical breakthrough is marked by the speech of the highest leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) or the decision of the CPC National Congress, each breakthrough is attributable to the theoretical contribution made by the academia of political economy. Notably, these theoretical breakthroughs invariably embrace innovations in the discourse system of political economy. The paper aims to discuss this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The innovations and breakthroughs thereof have led to the political economy of socialism with Chinese characteristics.

Findings

The success of China’s economy highlights the superiority of the socialist economic system and development path with Chinese characteristics.

Originality/value

These major breakthroughs are accompanied by breakthroughs in relevant theories, which constitute a synthesis of a series of major theoretical innovations in political economics.
A conceptual model and empirical assessment of HR security risk management
Authors: Kumah Peace , Yaokumah Winfred , Okai Eric Saviour Aryee
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This study aims to develop a conceptual model and assess the extent to which pre-, during- and post-employment HR security controls are applied in organizations to manage information security risks.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model is developed based on the agency theory and the review of theoretical, empirical and practitioner literature. Following, empirical data are collected through a survey from 134 IT professionals, internal audit personnel and HR managers working within five major industry sectors in a developing country to test the organizational differences in pre-, during- and post-employment HR security measures.

Findings

Using analysis of variance, the findings reveal significant differences among the organizations. Financial institutions perform better in employee background checks, terms and conditions of employment, management responsibilities, security education, training and awareness and disciplinary process. Conversely, healthcare institutions outperform other organizations in post-employment security management. The government public institutions perform the worst among all the organizations.

Originality/value

An integration of a conceptual model with HR security controls is an area that is under-researched and under-reported in information security and human resource management literature. Accordingly, this research on HR security management contributes to reducing such a gap and adds to the existing HR security risk management literature. It, thereby, provides an opportunity for researchers to conduct comparative studies between developed and developing nations or to benchmark a specific organization’s HR security management.
Retail services efficiency: impact of country-specific factors
Authors: Cruz Roche Ignacio , Romero Jaime , Sellers-Rubio Ricardo
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Efficiency in retailing companies is mandatory for survival. Literature acknowledges external factors impact on efficiency. However, this impact remains understudied, as previous research typically focuses on managerial decisions. The purpose of this paper is to partially fill this gap by exploring the influence of external factors on retailers’ efficiency.

Design/methodology/approach

This research simultaneously measures retail efficiency and evaluates the impact of six potential drivers by applying bootstrap techniques in a sample of 25 European Union countries during the period 2006–2015.

Findings

The efficiency of the retail system in the countries under analysis evolves at different paces during the observation period. This evolution can be explained by country population density, average store size within countries, foreign trade ratio, concentration, economic freedom and percentage of urban population.

Research limitations/implications

This research does not account for supply and demand restrictions that might affect retailers’ efficiency, as well as other variables that influence their production process.

Practical implications

This paper might help retail managers to comprehend and manage their companies’ efficiency. Furthermore, it provides clues to evaluate market attractiveness in retailers’ international expansion strategies.

Social implications

Policy makers can facilitate retailers’ efficiency through regulations on external variables that influence retailers’ performance, namely economic freedom and foreign trade ratio.

Originality/value

For the first time, this study analyses the impact of external factors on retail services efficiency across countries.
Overcoming “over-tourism”: the closure of Maya Bay
Authors: Koh Edward , Fakfare Pipatpong
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The temporary closure of Maya Bay – located at Phi Phi Le Island in Thailand’s Krabi province – was an executive decision made to overcome problems of “over-tourism” and degradation of the marine ecosystems. The purpose of this paper is to assess the process of stakeholder engagement by the Thai authorities before they arrived at decisions on the closure of Maya Bay.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi-method qualitative research through in-depth interviews and netnography was designed to examine opinions of participants within the context of investigation.

Findings

The key findings revolve around the central research question of “how are stakeholders managed and consulted to overcome ‘over-tourism’ in Maya Bay?”. The research question can be sub-divided into three parts – the identification of “over-tourism,” the process of engaging and consulting with stakeholders on solutions to deal with “over-tourism,” and the final decision on selected approaches to overcome “over-tourism.”

Originality/value

The researchers draw upon the views from the five groups of stakeholders to propose recommendations on tackling “over-tourism” issues that local governments and destination management agencies might face. A business, residents, authorities, visitors and environmentalists (BRAVE) stakeholders framework is proposed by integrating five main stakeholder categories – businesses (B), residents (R), authorities (A), visitors (V) and environmentalists (E). This “BRAVE” stakeholders model is then used to assess the various stakeholders’ positions on the issue of “over-tourism” in Maya Bay, including a cost-benefit analysis in an “over-tourism” situation. Particular attention is placed on how different stakeholders work together and converge on a decision accepted by all.
The influences of interdependence, opportunism and technology uncertainty on interfirm coopetition
Authors: Chai Linlin , Li Jin , Clauss Thomas , Tangpong Chanchai
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the antecedents and the conditions of coopetition at the inter-organizational level.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on survey research methodology and analyzes the data from 138 companies regarding the antecedents and the conditions of their coopetition.

Findings

The results indicate that the interdependence between partners (i.e. the antecedent) positively affects interfirm coopetition, and that this relationship is contingent on the joint occurrence of opportunism (a behavioral condition) and technology uncertainty (a contextual condition). Specifically, highly interdependent firms are more likely to be involved in a coopetitive relationship when both opportunism and technology uncertainty are high. Interestingly, the authors’ data also show that opportunism or technology uncertainty alone may not be adequate in moderating the interdependence–coopetition relationship.

Research limitations/implications

This study contributes to the current literature in two meaningful ways. First, it empirically examines interdependence as a potential antecedent of interfirm coopetition. Second, it improves our understanding of the behavioral and contextual conditions that facilitate the formation of coopetitive relationships by examining the moderating roles of opportunisms and technology uncertainty in the relationship between interdependence and interfirm coopetition. The limitations of this study lie in its confined method of cross-sectional survey from the focal firm’s perspective. Future research may advance beyond this study through experimental and/or longitudinal research designs.

Practical implications

This study provides managers with two important practical insights in coopetition management. First, the findings suggest a two-step approach to help a firm assess and manage the level of coopetition in its relationship with a business partner. In addition, the findings provide a counterintuitive suggestion to managers that the joint conditions of high opportunism and high technology uncertainty indeed prime the relationship for the rise of coopetition, provided that managerial efforts are made to somewhat increase the level of interdependence in the relationship.

Originality/value

Despite the growing number of studies on coopetition, research still lacks knowledge about the antecedents and the conditions of inter-organizational coopetition, and this study aims to fill this gap.
A cloud-based supply chain management system: effects on supply chain responsiveness
Authors: Giannakis Mihalis , Spanaki Konstantina , Dubey Rameshwar
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Despite the ongoing calls for the incorporation of the cloud utility model, the effect of the cloud on elements of supply chain performance is still an evolving area of research. The purpose of this paper is to develop the architecture of a cloud-based supply chain management (C-SCM) ecosystem and explore how it enhances supply chain responsiveness (SCR).

Design/methodology/approach

First, the authors discuss the potential benefits that cloud computing can yield, compared to existing mature SCM information systems and solutions through a comprehensive literature review. The authors conceptualise SCR in terms of the level of visibility in the supply chain, supply chain flexibility and rapid detection and reaction to changes, and then the authors build the detailed architecture of a C-SCM system. The proposed ecosystem introduces a view of SCM and the associated practices when transferred to cloud environments. The potential to enhance SCR through the cloud is explored with scenarios on a case of supply chain operations in fashion retail industry.

Findings

The findings show that the proposed system can enhance all three dimensions of SCR. Implications for supply chain practice and how companies can migrate to a cloud supply chain are drawn.

Originality/value

Given that the development, creation and delivery of goods and services are increasingly becoming a joint effort of several parties in a supply chain, the authors contribute to the existing literature by introducing a comprehensive C-SCM system and show how companies can enhance their SCR.
Teachers’ perspectives of social and emotional learning in Aotearoa New Zealand primary schools
Authors: Dyson Ben , Howley Donal , Shen Yanhua
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study teachers’ perspectives of social and emotional learning (SEL) in Aotearoa New Zealand (NZ) primary schools.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was a case study design investigating the phenomenon of SEL in primary schools (elementary school level) in Aotearoa NZ (Stake, 2005).

Findings

The SEL themes that were drawn from the data were: positive interdependence, empowerment, self-management, self-awareness restorative conversations and circle time.

Research limitations/implications

The research challenges the field to work with teachers and community workers to create more in-depth qualitative research knowledge that is contextually relevant to SEL for researchers, educational policymakers and our children.

Originality/value

Based in Aotearoa NZ primary schools, this qualitative research provides a unique perspective of SEL from school-based practicing teachers.
Development of a HACCP-based approach to control risk factors associated with biscuit manufacturing plant, Bangladesh
Authors: Shuvo Suvasish Das , Josy Md. Shahariea Karim , Parvin Rashida , Zahid Md. Ashrafuzzaman , Paul Dipak Kumar , Elahi Md. Toufiq
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a hazard analysis and critical control point (HACCP)-based approach to control risk factors associated with biscuit manufacturing plant.

Design/methodology/approach

Methodology was developed to achieve and implement the food safety and quality requirements. Procedure for hazard analysis and risk assessment was based on ISO 22000:2005 and codex standard. The HACCP Plan was summarized in comprehensive figures and tables. Biological, chemical and physical hazards that could exist in every step of biscuits production were identified. Moreover, the critical control points were selected and the critical limits, monitoring, corrective measures, records and verifications were established using risk analysis and decision tree.

Findings

With the implementation of HACCP system, it could be possible to reduce the food safety hazard and provide safe food and increase customer satisfaction. The critical control points were identified in sieving, sugar crushing, baking and detecting metal through the use of risk analysis and decision-making tree to control the biological, physical hazards along with monitoring through the control sheets. Critical limits, monitoring methods and frequency, responsibilities and corrective actions of the processes are also presented. This measuring instrument could be used by a food company as assessment tool and a benchmarking tool.

Originality/value

Applying the HACCP system in food manufacturing can effectively assure food safety and quality, as well as expand the market and improve the manufacturers’ management level. In doing so, suitable strategies can be selected by a food company to allocate resources, increase HACCP effectiveness and improve its product safety.
Conceptualizing and managing corporate logo: a qualitative study
Authors: Foroudi Pantea , Foroudi Mohamma M. , Nguyen Bang , Gupta Suraksha
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to examine corporate logo as an effective means of communication, by synthesizing knowledge from various domains to explore its relationships with corporate image and reputation.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered during seven in-depth interviews with UK communication/design consultancy agencies and experts, and four focus-group discussions were conducted with a total of 24 people (17 men and 7 women) to encourage a sufficient level of group interaction and discussion on corporate logo.

Findings

Findings reveal convergence in views concerning fundamental components of corporate logo among managers, employees and consumers. The categorization described herein provides a framework to further develop corporate logo to advance a favorable corporate image and corporate reputation.

Originality/value

Corporate logo has received little attention in marketing literature. This study extends current academic understanding about the role of corporate logo in strengthening the relationship between corporate image and corporate reputation. Therefore, this study makes a significant contribution toward the corporate logo, design and identity literature by developing the sphere of influence of the corporate logo and its antecedents and consequences. Its findings will be valuable for marketing decision-makers and practitioners who are engaged in improving the logo of any company, considering the perceptions of managers, employees and consumers about its reputation and image. Implications exist for marketing scholars, as well as for general and cross-functional managers involved in managing a company’s corporate visual identity, and marketing decision-makers.
A process view of the role of integrated marketing communications during brand crises
Authors: Hewett Kelly , Lemon Laura L.
Published: June 2019

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the internal processes that can enable firms to identify and effectively respond to brand crises, with various groups coordinating and cooperating with each other, and also propose a guiding framework relevant for both managers and researchers.

Design/methodology/approach

A grounded theory methodology was adopted. Data collection included open-ended interviews with 13 executives representing the integrated marketing communications (IMC) function, the integrated corporate communications function and external agencies supporting firms while navigating crises.

Findings

Results revealed a three-stage process of internal coordination efforts during crises: sensing or scanning the environment and gathering insights regarding crises, informing or disseminating these insights throughout the organization to create transparency and responding or reacting to the event via a coordinated effort.

Research limitations/implications

The framework does not directly incorporate input from consumers or customer contact employees, both of which may be relevant.

Practical implications

Findings offer direction for managers to establish processes that prepare for and potentially reduce crises’ negative consequences. In addition, this study reveals the importance of decision-makers being vigilant regarding social media’s influence on such a process.

Originality/value

The conceptual framework moves beyond previous brand crisis research, provides insight into the processes firms use to successfully manage crises and reveals the relevant factors related to internal coordination.
Service failure and recovery strategies in the Balkans: an exploratory study
Authors: Azemi Yllka , Ozuem Wilson , Lancaster Geoff
Published: June 2019

Purpose

Despite scholarly effort to understand customers’ recovery evaluation, little progress is evident in deciphering how customers develop online failure/recovery perception. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Social constructivism was the epistemic choice for this study. This approach is holistic and offers a comprehensive understanding of each side of the phenomena. This provided social scientific descriptions of people and their cultural bases and built on, and articulated what was implicit in interpretations of their views.

Findings

Online banking customer groups were identified as: exigent customers, solutionist customers and impulsive customers. Customers’ position in each group determined failure perception, recovery expectation and evaluation, and post-recovery behaviour. Comparisons were observed and discussed in relation to Albania and Kosovo. It was suggested that banks should expand their presence in social media platforms and offer a means to manage online customer communication and spread of online WOM.

Research limitations/implications

For exigent customers, the failure/recovery responsibility is embedded within the provider. This explains their high sensitivity and criteria to define a failure.

Practical implications

Online banking customers’ request of a satisfactory recovery experience included: customer notifications, customer behaviour, customer determination, and the mediator of request. 10;Providers should examine customer failure/recovery experiences in cooperation with other banks which should lead to a higher order understanding of customer withdrawal and disengagement activities.

Social implications

Post-recovery behaviour is linked to the decline of online banking usage, switching to new providers, and the spread of negative online and off-line word-of-mouth.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study on online service failure and recovery strategy to provide information on customers’ unique preferences and expectations in the recovery process. Online customers are organised into a threefold customer typology, and explanation for the providers’ role in the online customer failure-recovery perception construct is presented.
Smart Cities Mission in India: some definitions and considerations
Authors: Prakash Anand
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline the generic concepts and learning about smart cities and capture the varied perspectives of winning case examples in India. An attempt is made in the paper to study the available literature about smart cities and structure them into a synoptic framework of planning, design and implementation.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper has followed a case study approach and complied multi-facet 18 features of 99 winners of “100 Smart Cities Mission” in India to showcase trends and developments of tomorrow. These multi-facet features collectively provide a heterogeneous view of the future potentials of smart cities in India.

Findings

Findings of this research can contribute to shaping a number significant learning of different aspects of policy formation in India with respect to smart cities in view of the sensitivity of citizen participation in the individualized society of information age.

Research limitations/implications

The results and learning of this study have not been verified empirically through a survey and they are based on qualitative incidences in the submitted proposal. Further, the state of this paper is generic and there is a lack of city-specific context specification except for some illustrations of success stories and upcoming innovative projects.

Practical implications

This paper provides a better understanding of current practices fulfilling featured requirements of smart cities to identify opportunities for improvement based on the current state of the debate.

Social implications

The development of smart cities in India is expected to play an outstanding role in shaping the world of tomorrow. Although the focus of this development is on the actual needs and requirements of today; however, some trends and predictions of the future society can also be identified.

Originality/value

This paper is the original attempt to set the definition of developing and replicating smart cities in India based on decisive parameters and it contributes to meet challenges of urban planning.
Factors affecting consumer buying behaviour of solar water pumping system
Authors: Kumar Vikas , Hundal Bikramjit Singh , Kaur Kulwinder
Published: June 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the factors influencing farmers’ intention to purchase solar water pumping systems (SWPS).

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on primary data that have been collected from a total of 345 solar pump users from different villages and rural areas of Punjab (India). Exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis and multiple regression analysis have been used to examine the collected data. Multiple regression analysis is used to examine the identified dimensions’ impact on customer buying behaviour.

Findings

The results of analysis validated that consumer buying behaviour is significantly determined by cost, performance and government initiatives dimensions. However, dimensions such as eco-friendly product, information regarding product and company, environmental concern and social influence were found insignificant.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size has been selected on the basis of convenience sampling and sample has been taken from the rural area. Therefore, the result may not be representative of the overall population. The perception of respondents from one part may vary from another part of India.

Originality/value

By providing an insight into factors affecting consumer buying behaviour of SWPS, the proposed research attempts to fill the gaps in literature by conducting an empirical study on consumer buying behaviour. As the study relates to SWPS users, findings will be of additional value to solar product companies and the government.