bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antiviral Defense Involves AGO4 in anArabidopsis–Potexvirus Interaction
Authors: Brosseau Chantal , El Oirdi Mohamed , Adurogbangba Ayooluwa , Ma Xiaofang , Moffett Peter
Published: October 2016

In plants, RNA silencing regulates gene expression through the action of Dicer-like (DCL) and Argonaute (AGO) proteins via micro RNAs and RNA-dependent DNA methylation (RdDM). In addition, RNA silencing functions as an antiviral defense mechanism by targeting virus-derived double-stranded RNA. Plants encode multiple AGO proteins with specialized functions, including AGO4-like proteins that affect RdDM and AGO2, AGO5, and AGO1, which have antiviral activities. Here, we show that AGO4 is also required for defense against the potexvirus Plantago asiatica mosaic virus (PlAMV), most likely independent of RdDM components such as DCL3, Pol IV, and Pol V. Transient assays showed that AGO4 has direct antiviral activity on PlAMV and, unlike RdDM, this activity does not require nuclear localization of AGO4. Furthermore, although PlAMV infection causes a decrease in AGO4 expression, PlAMV causes a change in AGO4 localization from a largely nuclear to a largely cytoplasmic distribution. These results indicate an important role for AGO4 in targeting plant RNA viruses as well as demonstrating novel mechanisms of regulation of and by AGO4, independent of its canonical role in regulating gene expression by RdDM.
Neuroinflammatory response to experimental stroke is inhibited by boldine
Authors: de Lima Neila Maria R. , Ferreira Emerson de O. , Fernandes Mara Yone S. D. , Lima Francisco Arnaldo V. , Neves Kelly Rose T. , do Carmo Marta Regina S. , de Andrade Geanne M.
Published: October 2016

Inflammation plays a pivotal role in the development of ischemic brain damage. Astrocyte activation promotes the production of several proinflammatory mediators, such as TNF-α and iNOS. Eventually, neuronal death occurs, leading to the development of motor and memory deficits in patients. Boldine is the main alkaloid in the leaves and bark of the Peumus boldus Molina, and has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The aim of this work was to investigate the neuroprotective effect of boldine on neuroinflammation and memory deficits induced by permanent middle cerebral artery occlusion (pMCAO) in mice. Thirty minutes before pMCAO and during the next 5 days, animals received vehicle (0.025 µmol/l HCl) or boldine (8, 16 and 25 mg/kg, intraperitoneally). The extension of the infarct area, neurological scores, and myeloperoxidase activity were evaluated 24 h after pMCAO. Locomotor activity, working, and aversive memory were evaluated 72 h after pMCAO, object recognition memory was tested 96 h after pMCAO, and spatial memory was tested 120 h after pMCAO. Cresyl violet, Fluoro-Jade C staining, and immunohistochemical for GFAP, TNF-α, and iNOS were also carried out. The treatment with boldine significantly decreased the infarct area, improved the neurological scores, and increased cell viability. The vertical exploratory activity and aversive, spatial, object recognition, and working memory deficits induced by pMCAO were prevented by boldine. Moreover, myeloperoxidase activity and GFAP, TNF-α, and iNOS immunoreactivity were decreased significantly by boldine. Although various mechanisms such as its antioxidant activity should be considered, these results suggest that the neuroprotective effect of boldine might be related in part to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Klotho and Endothelin-1 in Pseudoexfoliation Syndrome and Glaucoma
Authors: Ahoor Mohammad. H , Ghorbanihaghjo Amir , Sorkhabi Rana , Kiavar Ali
Published: October 2016

Purpose:

Klotho is a newly discovered protein that presumably has an important role in the aging process. The goal of this research is to compare the levels of Klotho and Endothelin-1 (ET-1) in the serum and aqueous humor of patients with pseudoexfoliation syndrome (PES) and pseudoexfoliative glaucoma (PEG).

Patients and Methods:

Aqueous humor and serum samples were obtained at the time of cataract surgery from 15 patients with PES, 15 patients with PEG, and 15 control patients. All of the samples were analyzed using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay to evaluate the levels of ET-1 and Klotho protein.

Result:

Aqueous and serum levels of Klotho in PES patients (49.02±10.97, 56.32±10.25 ng/mL) and PEG patients (34.53±4.87, 50.49±2.63 ng/mL) were lower than in control patients (56.31±7.68, 65.06±12.32 ng/mL). Both aqueous and serum levels of Klotho in the PEG group were lower than in the PES group (P=0.001). Mean aqueous and serum levels of ET-1 in the PES (1.28±0.09, 1.65±0.75 pg/mL) and the PEG groups (1.45±0.07, 1.58±0.58 pg/mL) were significantly higher than that measured in the control group (1.17±0.09, 1.16±0.34 pg/mL). Aqueous levels of ET-1 in the PEG group were higher than the PES group (P=0.04), but there were no significant difference in serum levels of ET-1 between the PES and the PEG groups (P=0.83).

Conclusions:

Aqueous and serum levels of Klotho decreased both in PES and PEG patients, and this decrease in the PEG group was more significant. In contrast, aqueous and serum levels of ET-1 increased in the PES and the PEG patients, and the increase in the aqueous level of ET-1 in PEG patients was more significant.
Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia in a Treatment-Naive Patient With Chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia
Authors: Strich Jeffrey R. , Jerussi Theresa D. , Wiestner Adrian , Holland Steven M.
Published: October 2016

Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia is a known complication in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukemia who are treated with fludarabine-based chemotherapy; however, it is extremely uncommon in treatment-naive patients. Here, we report a case of Pneumocystis jirovecii pneumonia in a patient with untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia.
Rothia mucilaginosa Bacteremia and Subsequent Typhlitis in a Patient With Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Bassily Emmanuel , Verma Sean , Nanjappa Sowmya , Bassily Olivia , Greene John
Published: October 2016

Rothia mucilaginosa is a gram-positive coccobacilli that is part of the normal flora of the human oropharynx and upper respiratory tract. Rothia spp. cause a wide range of serious infections, especially in immunocompromised hosts. We report a 54-year-old man with acute myelogenous leukemia, who recently had gingivitis and tooth extraction in preparation for bone marrow transplant evaluation. After receiving induction chemotherapy with cladribine, cytarabine, filgrastim, and mitoxantrone, he developed an upper gingival ulceration and subsequent Rothia mucilaginosa bacteremia on day 15 of hospitalization. He remained neutropenic on broad-spectrum antimicrobials and had intermittent breakthrough fevers. On day 17, he developed abdominal pain and was subsequently diagnosed with neutropenic enterocolitis. Despite broad-spectrum antibiotics, he died with sepsis and multiorgan failure.
Risk factors associated with complications in cirrhotic patients undergoing endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography
Authors: Macías-Rodríguez Ricardo U. , Ruiz-Margáin Astrid , Rodriguez-Garcia Jose L. , Zepeda-Gómez Sergio , Torre Aldo
Published: October 2016

Objective

Endoscopic retrograde cholangio-pancreatography (ERCP) is useful for the management of biliary tract diseases; in patients with cirrhosis, portal hypertension may increase the risk for complications from ERCP. We evaluated the outcome and risk factors related to ERCP in patients with cirrhosis and portal hypertension.

Patients and methods

In this case–control study, 37 patients (71 procedures) with cirrhosis and portal hypertension (group 1) and 37 controls (group 2) undergoing ERCP were included. Logistic regression and receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were used to predict the risk factors.

Results

Mean Child–Pugh and model for end-stage liver disease (MELD) score were 9±2.1 and 17.8±6, respectively. Ascites was present in 46% of the patients, esophageal varices in 63% (large esophageal varices 43.7%), and hepatic encephalopathy in 16%. The main indication for ERCP in both groups was choledocholithiasis. Successful cannulation rate was 97% in both groups. Biliary sphincterotomy was performed more frequently in group 2 than in group 1 (60 vs. 35%, P=0.036); there was no difference in the frequency of complications related to ERCP between cirrhotics and noncirrhotics (10 vs. 8%, P=0.677). Complications in patients with cirrhosis were related to lower alkaline phosphatase and sphincterotomy rate; in the multivariable analysis only sphincterotomy was independently associated with complications [odds ratio 9.8 (1.7–56.3)]. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis yielded a MELD score of more than 16 to best predict complications after ERCP in cirrhosis.

Conclusion

Outcomes after ERCP in patients with cirrhosis are similar to those of noncirrhotics despite the alteration in coagulation parameters and the presence of disease-specific complications; however, a more cautious approach in patients with cirrhosis undergoing sphincterotomy and MELD of more than 16 is needed.
Insomnia and the Risk of Breast Cancer: The HUNT Study
Authors: Sen Abhijit , Opdahl Signe , Strand Linn Beate , Vatten Lars Johan , Laugsand Lars Erik , Janszky Imre
Published: October 2016

Objective

The association of insomnia with subsequent breast cancer risk is largely unknown. Therefore, we assessed whether different symptoms of insomnia and their combination are associated with incident breast cancer in a large population-based study.

Methods

In a prospective cohort study, 33,332 women were followed to monitor the occurrence of their first invasive breast cancer identified by the Cancer Registry of Norway. Insomnia symptoms including (1) nonrestorative sleep and (2) difficulty initiating and (3) maintaining sleep were self-reported using a study specific measure reflecting the current Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders criteria. Hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were calculated using multiadjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

A total of 862 incident breast cancer cases occurred during a mean follow-up of 14.7 years. No consistent association was observed between the individual insomnia symptoms and breast cancer risk. However, compared to women reporting no insomnia complaints, those who reported having all three aspects of insomnia simultaneously were at increased risk (hazard ratio, 2.38; 95% confidence interval = 1.11–5.09).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that having only some aspects of insomnia may not predispose someone to breast cancer. In contrast, experiencing all insomnia symptoms simultaneously might confer considerable excess risk.
Long-term Imaging of the Lungs After Sealant Bronchoscopic Lung Volume Reduction
Authors: Lieberman Sivan , Shulimzon Tiberiu R. , Davidson Tima , Marom Edith M.
Published: October 2016

Purpose:

The aim of the study was to assess the pulmonary temporal changes after bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) using sealants for treatment of emphysema.

Materials and Methods:

We retrospectively assessed all chest computerized tomography (CT) and F-18 fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) positron emission tomography CT scans of patients treated at our institution with BLVR.

Results:

Eleven patients were treated with sealants: 4 with biological sealants and 7 with synthetic sealants. The first CT scan after biological sealant treatment showed no abnormalities in 8 lobes and 5 nodules, and 3 consolidations in 7 lobes. All findings resolved within 3 months, except for a nodule that decreased after 2 months and remained stable for 9 years. The first CT scan after utilizing the synthetic sealant showed abnormalities in each treated lobe: 19 nodules/masses (16 cavitary, 3 solid) and 3 consolidations. Follow-up CT scans were available for 16 nodules/masses: 1 resolved, 12 slowly decreased in size, 1 remained unchanged, and 2 grew. Of 3 consolidations 1 resolved and 2 decreased in size. FDG positron emission tomography CT scans performed in 2 patients showed FDG uptake higher than mediastinal background activity in 2 nodules in the same patient.

Conclusions:

Pulmonary changes after BLVR are variable. After treatment with biological sealants, most findings resolve within 3 months. In contrast, after synthetic sealants, although the majority regress over time, some show waxing and waning in growth that can mimic malignancy. FDG uptake in some of these lesions is suggestive of chronic inflammation. Radiologists should be aware of the spectrum of these pulmonary changes to avoid misdiagnosis of lung cancer.
ALTRE: workflow for defining ALTered Regulatory Elements using chromatin accessibility data
Authors: Baskin Elizabeth , Farouni Rick , Mathe Ewy A.
Published: October 2016

Regulatory elements regulate gene transcription, and their location and accessibility is cell-type specific, particularly for enhancers. Mapping and comparing chromatin accessibility between different cell types may identify mechanisms involved in cellular development and disease progression. To streamline and simplify differential analysis of regulatory elements genome-wide using chromatin accessibility data, such as DNase-seq, ATAC-seq, we developed ALTRE (ALTered Regulatory Elements), an R package and associated R Shiny web app. ALTRE makes such analysis accessible to a wide range of users – from novice to practiced computational biologists.

Availability

https://github.com/Mathelab/ALTRE

Contact

ewy.mathe@osumc.edu
Confronting preferential sampling in wildlife surveys: diagnosis and model-based triage†
Authors: Conn Paul B. , Thorson James T. , Johnson Devin S.
Published: October 2016

Wildlife surveys are often used to estimate the density, abundance, or distribution of animal populations. Recently, model-based approaches to analyzing survey data have become popular because one can more readily accommodate departures from pre-planned survey routes and construct more detailed maps than one can with design-based procedures.

Species distribution models fitted to wildlife survey data often make the implicit assumption that locations chosen for sampling and animal abundance at those locations are conditionally independent given modeled covariates. However, this assumption is likely violated in many cases when survey effort is non-randomized, leading to preferential sampling.

We develop a hierarchical statistical modeling framework for detecting and alleviating the biasing effects of preferential sampling in species distribution models fitted to count data. The approach works by jointly modeling wildlife state variables and the locations selected for sampling, and specifying a dependent correlation structure between the two models.

Using simulation, we show that moderate levels of preferential sampling can lead to large (e.g. 40%) bias in estimates of animal density, and that our modeling approach can considerably reduce this bias.

We apply our approach to aerial survey counts of bearded seals (Erignathus barbatus) in the eastern Bering Sea. Models that included a preferential sampling effect led to lower estimates of abundance than models without, but the effect size of the preferential sampling parameter decreased in models that included explanatory environmental covariates.

When wildlife surveys are conducted without a well-defined sampling frame, ecologists should recognize the potentially biasing effects of preferential sampling. Joint models, such as those described in this paper, can be used to test and correct for such biases. Predictive covariates are also useful for bias reduction, but ultimately the best way to avoid preferential sampling bias is to incorporate design-based principles such as randomization and/or systematic sampling into survey design.
Temporal order of Alzheimer’s disease-related cognitive marker changes in BLSA and WRAP longitudinal studies
Authors: Bilgel Murat , Koscik Rebecca L. , An Yang , Prince Jerry L. , Resnick Susan M. , Johnson Sterling C. , Jedynak Bruno M.
Published: October 2016

Investigation of the temporal trajectories of currently used neuropsychological tests is critical to identifying earliest changing measures on the path to dementia due to Alzheimer’s disease (AD). We used the Progression Score (PS) method to characterize the temporal trajectories of measures of verbal memory, executive function, attention, processing speed, language, and mental state using data spanning normal cognition, mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and AD from 1661 participants with a total of 7839 visits (age at last visit 77.6 SD 9.2) in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging and 1542 participants with a total of 4467 visits (age at last visit 59.9 SD 7.3) in the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention. This method aligns individuals in time based on the similarity of their longitudinal measurements to reveal temporal trajectories. As a validation of our methodology, we explored the associations between the individualized cognitive progression scores (Cog-PS) computed by our method and clinical diagnosis. Digit span tests were the first to show declines in both data sets, and were detected mainly among cognitively normal individuals. These were followed by tests of verbal memory, which were in turn followed by Trail Making Tests, Boston Naming Test, and Mini-Mental State Examination. Differences in Cog-PS across the clinical diagnosis groups were statistically significant, highlighting the potential use of Cog-PS as individualized indicators of disease progression. Identifying cognitive measures that are changing in preclinical AD can lead to the development of novel cognitive tests that are finely tuned to detecting earliest changes.

ABBREVIATIONS

AD

Alzheimer’s disease

AVLT

Rey Auditory Verbal Learning Test

BLSA

Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging

CI

Cognitive impairment

Cog-PS

Cognitive progression score

CVLT

California Verbal Learning Test

AD

Alzheimer’s disease

MCI

Mild cognitive impairment

MMSE

Mini-Mental State Examination

WRAP

Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention
Autism, mental health and offending behaviour: a mother’s quest for healthcare
Authors: Larch Sue
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the experiences of a mother of a son who was diagnosed with Asperger syndrome and psychosis in adulthood, the impact of this on his behaviour, and her quest to obtain healthcare.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study.

Findings

While a striking story in its own right, the experiences described have a number of wider implications for the treatment of mental ill heath in ASD, the exclusion of families and carers from the care of their adult children in services, and the impact of this on the individuals directly affected.

Research limitations/implications

The paper offers a number of practical recommendations for the understanding and management of autism in generic mental health services, and the involvement of families and carers in the care of their relative.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to describe mental ill health and offending behaviour in ASD, from the perspective of a mother.
Enhancing national competitiveness through national cooperation
Authors: Cho Dong-Sung , Moon Hwy-Chang , Yin Wenyan
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how countries can make a more efficient and effective cooperation strategy, considering their competitive strengths and weaknesses.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is an exploratory study in examining the efficient way of national cooperation from the competitiveness perspective. By applying the double diamond-based nine-factor model and the framework for the life cycle of national competitiveness, this study proposes the importance of cooperation strategy, considering the current competitiveness status. A case study of two economies of South Korea (hereafter referred to as Korea) and Dubai reveals a potentially substantial cooperative relationship.

Findings

Although Korea and Dubai are geographically and culturally distant, they share complementary resources to enhance their overall competitiveness. In addition, their past experiences of growth can effectively deal with their current challenges and help their economies move to more advanced stage.

Practical implications

The methodology used in this paper can provide a useful guideline for policy makers to examine the current development status of their economies, find an appropriate cooperation partner and decide the priority of cooperating areas.

Originality/value

Although most existing studies explain national competitiveness from a narrow perspective, this paper provides a more comprehensive analysis using the extended model of Porter’s single diamond model. In addition, this paper conducts an intensive case study of Dubai and Korea for possible cooperation.
Assessing e-readiness of the Copperbelt University, Zambia: case study
Authors: Chipembele Matuka , Bwalya Kelvin Joseph
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess e-readiness (preparedness) of the Copperbelt University (CBU) with a view to ascertain the likelihood of the university benefiting from various opportunities unlocked by the adoption and use of ICT in advancing its core mandate of teaching, learning and collaborative research.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used the network readiness model emanating from the socio-technical theory, which underpins the extended technological enactment framework. Further, it employed a positivist approach and adopted a case study method coupled with methodological triangulation at data collection stage. With a 95 per cent confidence level of a possible sample frame of 2,980, the study sampled 353 respondents with a response rate of 81 per cent.

Findings

The results show that anticipated ICTs users have not leveraged available ICT infrastructure or are unaware of its existence. Further, quantitative constructs: “accessibility to ICTs” and “requisite ICTs skills” has significant impacts on e-readiness indicators and in integration of ICTs in CBU core business activities. Also, the study argues that institutional ICT policy and working environments reshape users’ perception of ICTs for teaching, learning and research.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed conceptual framework only accounted for 43 per cent variance of the factors determining e-readiness of CBU.

Originality/value

Investigating CBU’s e-readiness will enable policy-makers to prioritise interventions needed for transforming the university into an e-ready entity favourably placed to benefit from digital opportunities. Also the emanating conceptual framework is important to theory and practice in integrating ICTs universities business value chains especially in contextually similar environments.
Popular music in Super Bowl commercials 2005-2014
Authors: Allan David , Tryce Stephanie A.
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to quantify and qualify the commercials in the Super Bowl.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a content analysis of the placement of popular music in Super Bowl advertisements over a ten-year period (2005-2014).

Findings

More than a quarter of the commercials analyzed contained popular music. Although the use of popular music in commercials vacillated from year to year, popular music was most often observed in the product category of beverages; the music treatment most often used was original vocals; and song lyrics were most often relevant to the narrative of the commercial, rather than the brand.

Originality/value

This study extends the growing body of Super Bowl advertising research to popular music in commercials and provides a benchmark for all future research in this area.
The effects of prior affect and sensory stimuli on motorsport spectators’ in-the-moment experiences
Authors: Chung Kyu-soo , Ryu Dong Soo , Lee Seunghwan
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide meaningful information to sport organizations that have just recently started hosting sporting events in a new market and want to build long-term relationships with that market’s consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

Using self-administered questionnaires, the study surveys 463 spectators who attended the 2012 Formula One Korean Grand Prix.

Findings

Prior affect and existing sensory cues are crucial for spectators’ consumption behavior. Spectators’ prior event attendance plays a significant role on perceiving sensory stimuli as well as on consequent outcomes. This study also finds arousal significantly affected by seeing and hearing and prior affect. Arousal mediates the effects of these sensory stimuli and prior affect on satisfaction and revisit intention.

Originality/value

This study expands the knowledge on spectators’ experience at live sporting events. In addition, more dimensions of the mechanisms that are at work between cognitive elements and sensory stimuli are added to the existing knowledge of sport spectators’ behavior.
On the drivers and performance outcomes of green practices adoption
Authors: Zhang Huiying , Yang Fan
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine a multitude of motivators that facilitate the implementation of green practices (GP) in the context of Chinese manufacturing industry. Also, this study aims to explore the influence of GP on the environmental performance, operational performance, and financial performance of manufacturing firms.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper developed a conceptual model to investigate the stakeholder drivers and commensurate performance outcomes of GP. Statistical analysis was based on the data collected from 124 manufacturing firms across the Greater China. Finally, the hypotheses were empirically tested by partial least squares approach.

Findings

Of the ten proposed hypotheses, seven are considered valid. The statistic results reveal that pressures originate from employees, senior managers, and customers exert significant positive influence on firm’s decision to adopt GP, while the drivers generated from government and competitors is non-significant. More specifically, this study indicates that environmental performance partially mediates the relationship between GP and operational/financial performance.

Originality/value

The originality of this research is that it proposes a novel conceptual model, ascertains the primary drivers in promoting GP in Chinese manufacturing industry. This research provides policy insights for professional organizations, regulators, and legislators to further promote GP.
Does size matter? An investigation into the role of virtual team size in IT service provisioning
Authors: Watanuki Hugo Martinelli , Moraes Renato de Oliveira
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the potential influence of virtual team size on team performance by examining group processes in the context of information technology (IT) service provisioning. This paper proposes a theoretical model of the relationships and presents an empirical study to verify the model.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing a survey questionnaire as the data collection instrument, this study focuses on IT service provisioning professionals who are actively engaged in virtual work contexts to test the relationships proposed by the theoretical model. A consistent version of the partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) approach is used to assess the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

Although the statistical analyses did not provide support for the hypothesized effects of team size on virtual team performance, the results provide novel insights that may help teams overcome the functioning challenges that they face, as reported in the previous literature on virtual team size. In addition, the results highlight the importance of specific group processes for obtaining superior team performance.

Originality/value

Currently, virtual teams are a reality in several organizations, especially in the IT service provisioning industry. However, despite its importance, the literature suggests that virtual team size has not yet been fully explored as a possible means of enhancing group collaboration in such contexts. This paper attempts to provide an empirical contribution to this field using the latest developments in PLS-SEM.
Behaviour and determinants of implied volatility in Indian market
Authors: Narain  , Nigam Narander Kumar , Pandey Piyush
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand the patterns of the implied volatility (IV) of the Indian index option market and its relationship with moneyness (called the volatility smile). Its goal is also to ascertain the determinants of IV.

Design/methodology/approach

For this purpose, IVs were computed from the daily call and put data of CNX Nifty index options from April 2004 to March 2014. The patterns of IVs were analysed using univariate parametric tests. Multivariate regression analyses were conducted to understand the relationships observed. Resultantly, vector autoregressions were performed to assess the determinants of IV.

Findings

The results suggested that there was asymmetric volatility across time and strike prices using alternative measures of moneyness. Furthermore, it was found that the IV of lower strike prices was significantly higher (lower) than that of higher strike prices for call (put) options. Put IV was observed to be higher than call IV irrespective of any attributes. The results further showed that current-month contracts have significantly higher IV than those for next month and those were followed by far-month contracts. Nifty futures’ volumes and momentum were found to be significant determinants of IV.

Practical implications

The behaviour of the volatility smile is important when accounting for the Vega risks in the portfolios of hedge fund managers. While taking a position, besides the Black-Scholes-Merton (BSM) model’s input factors, investors must consider the previous behaviour of volatility, a market’s microstructures and its liquidity for a put option contract. They must also consider the attributes of the underlying for a call option contract.

Originality/value

This is the first decadal study (the longest span of data for any international study on this subject) to confirm the existence of the volatility smile for the index options market in India. It examines and confirms the smile’s asymmetry patterns for different definitions of moneyness, as well as option types, the tenure of options contracts and the different phases of market conditions. It further helps to identify the determinants of IV and so has renewed importance for traders.
Agreement-seeking behavior, trust, and cognitive diversity in strategic decision making teams
Authors: Parayitam Satyanarayana , Papenhausen Chris
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of three important group process variables, namely, agreement-seeking behavior, group trust, and cognitive diversity, on decision outcomes. In addition, it seeks to examine the role of process conflict as a moderator in the relationship between agreement-seeking behavior and team effectiveness; agreement-seeking behavior and decision commitment; cognitive diversity and team effectiveness; and cognitive diversity and decision commitment.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a structured survey instrument, this paper gathered data from 160 students enrolled in a strategic management capstone course that features strategic decision making in a simulated business strategy game. The data from 41 teams were collected from the student population using a carefully administered instrument, and the data were aggregated only after appropriate inter-rater agreement tests were run.

Findings

Results show that the group process variables are positively related to decision outcomes. The data support the view that process conflict acts as a moderator in the relationship between agreement-seeking behavior and team effectiveness and decision commitment. Further, the results support that cognitive diversity has a positive impact on decision commitment and team effectiveness. Process conflict, which acts as a deterrent, is outweighed by the presence of agreement-seeking behavior.

Research limitations/implications

Since the present research is based on self-report measures, the limitations of social desirability bias and common method bias are inherent. However, sufficient care is taken to minimize these limitations. The research has implications for both the conflict management and strategic decision-making process literatures.

Practical implications

This study contributes to both practicing managers and the strategic management literature. The study suggests that administrators should select those teams who are prone to agreement-seeking behavior; and team members who trust one another. Administrators need not unduly avoid process conflict because diversity in opinions and thinking and agreement-seeking behavior outweigh the negative effects of process conflict.

Social implications

The findings from the study will be useful for creating congenial social environment in the organizations.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights about the previously unknown effects of process conflict in strategic decision-making process.
I’m worth it or I need it? Self-gift giving and consumers’ self-regulatory mindset
Authors: Mouakhar-Klouz Dania , d’Astous Alain , Darpy Denis
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The aim of the research presented in this paper is to enhance our understanding of self-gift giving behavior. Self-regulatory theory is used as a conceptual support to achieve this objective. The main idea that is explored is that consumers’ self-gift purchase intentions vary across contexts and situations to the extent that these are compatible or not with their self-regulatory mindset, whether it is chronic or situational.

Design/methodology/approach

Two studies, using a scenario-based experiment, were conducted to investigate the effects that regulatory focus has on consumers’ intentions to buy themselves a gift.

Findings

The results support the proposition that the chronic form of regulatory focus in success and failure situations has a significant impact on the intention to purchase a gift to oneself and show that the situational form of regulatory focus has an influence on self-gift purchase intention as well. They also confirm that situations that are congruent with consumers’ self-regulatory mindset lead to stronger self-gift purchase intentions.

Originality/value

The main contribution of this research lies in delineating the role that some specific dispositional and situational factors play in shaping consumers’ perceptions of success and failure events and how this impacts the eventual purchase of a gift to oneself. This contrasts with previous research on self-gift giving, where success and failure situations are assumed to be perceived similarly by consumers. Marketing managers wishing to stimulate consumers’ propensity to buy themselves gifts should consider using regulatory focus as a segmentation basis. Marketing communications should be adapted to consumers’ self-regulatory mindset.
Retrospective: why do customers switch? The dynamics of satisfaction versus loyalty
Authors: Mittal Banwari
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to revisit the 1998 paper (“Why do customers switch […]”) published in this journal with the goal of documenting research progress since then and identifying gaps still present in the knowledge base on the relevant key issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The method is literature review, theoretical scrutiny and critical reflections on the findings of the research studies over the past two decades that deal with customer satisfaction, loyalty and switching behaviors, with particular emphasis on service businesses.

Findings

The core issue of why satisfaction may not explain loyalty has been examined by positing other co-predictors and moderators of loyalty such as relationship quality, price value, trust, image, etc. These predictors have been found significant, implying that satisfaction is not the only driver of customer loyalty. Additionally, other drivers of switching and staying behavior have been established such as attraction of the alternatives and switching costs, respectively. This paper points out, however, that the gains of the new research literature are attenuated due to assumption of linearity in the loyalty effects of satisfaction and due to a lack of separate analyses of customer segments who defy the satisfaction–loyalty logic.

Research limitations/implications

The relevant literature is so vast that any account of it within the scope of this paper had to be by design delimited. The paper not only sampled the literature selectively but also summarized the principal findings of the selected papers over-simplistically. Interested readers must get a firsthand read of the reviewed literature.

Practical implications

The spotlight on the nonlinearity implies that practitioners should analyze customer data separately for customer segments that experience low, moderate and high satisfaction, and also separately for segments that show the expected positive satisfaction–loyalty relationship versus those who would defect despite being satisfied.

Originality/value

Against the backdrop where most academic as well as industry research had presumed a positive loyalty effect of satisfaction, the 1998 paper drew attention to segments of consumers who exhibited the contrarian loyalty behavior. The present paper shines a light on that topic with even sharper focus, highlighting six unaddressed issues that must frame future research.
Alcohol regulation, communication strategies and underage alcohol consumption in Spain
Authors: Rodriguez-Sanchez Carla , Sancho-Esper Franco Manuel
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is twofold. First, it examines the communication strategies pursued by firms related to alcohol beverages in Spain during a decade with major changes in alcohol marketing regulations. Second, it analyzes the relationship between these strategies and underage alcohol consumption before and after 2007.

Design/methodology/approach

Panel data methodology is implemented using data from ESTUDES national survey (average sample size 26,000 interviews, 2004-2010) and INFOADEX (nationwide advertising expenditure, 1999-2013).

Findings

The results show that, under a restrictive alcohol marketing framework, firms related to alcohol beverages adapt their communication strategies: budget deviation from advertising to sponsorship. Regarding alcohol quantity and frequency models, the relationship between alcohol advertising expenditure and underage alcohol consumption after 2007 is very small but still positive and significant. However, contrary to expectations, in the case of alcohol sponsorship, the relationship between expenditure and underage alcohol consumption has not been affected by the observed budget deviation from advertising to sponsorship after 2007.

Research limitations/implications

Changes in alcohol advertising and sponsorship regulation lead firms related to alcohol beverages to change their communication strategies to overcome new regulatory restrictions and to reach their target group. Overall, despite the relationships between both advertising and sponsorship expenditure and underage alcohol consumption diminish between periods, they still remain positive and significant. Closer and updated monitoring of alcohol communication strategies pursued by firm is needed to keep controlling the alcohol advertising and sponsorship exposure to under age people.

Originality/value

This is a pioneer study in analyzing communication strategies within the Spanish alcohol beverages sector and in proposing a model to analyze the dynamic effect of such strategies on underage alcohol consumption.
Economic well-being and social justice through pleasure reading
Authors: Dewan Pauline
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Librarians planning for the future and unsure about the place of books in an age dominated by technology and media need evidence to make sound decisions. Library and information science researchers have studied the impact of pleasure reading on individuals but not on society. The purpose of this paper is to raise awareness about the benefits of recreational reading for societies and to consider the implications of these findings for libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Examining a wide range of studies by government bodies, intergovernmental agencies and academics, this paper addresses a gap in the library literature by critically evaluating the combined implications of sources not hitherto viewed together.

Findings

The more leisure books people read, the more literate they become, and the more prosperous and equitable the society they inhabit.

Practical implications

Librarians should create a more robust culture of reading and play a stronger advocacy role for books in libraries.

Originality/value

No one has yet examined government reports about literacy in relation to studies on the impact of pleasure reading. The implications of this combined research highlight the fact that pleasure reading benefits societies as well as individuals, a finding that has significant implications for the future direction of libraries. Decision-makers who need a robust mandate for book-focused resources and services will find supportive statistical evidence in this paper.
Creating a space for autonomous learning and citizen involvement in collaboration with a public library
Authors: Yoshida Yuko
Published: October 2016

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the significance of public libraries as lifelong educational agencies through the analysis of citizens’ autonomous learning activities developed in a public library.

Design/methodology/approach

A self-learning group was chosen and their history was traced. Self-published documents and narratives of the group were used to clarify the substantial content of autonomous learning activities related to a public library. First, an overview of the group activities is given through an analysis of the contents of group newsletters. Second, the narrative of the group members is examined as it appears in their publications. Finally, the results of these two procedures are integrated to holistically articulate the activities of the group as an autonomous learning history based in the public library.

Findings

The paper shows how the group created their learning space in collaboration with a public library and developed individual lifelong learning by sharing their activities with local citizens. The paper concludes that the activities of the target group provide an excellent example of not only the citizens’ autonomous learning as a study group but also the ways in which civic activities nurture public debate and generate social capital in cooperation with the local public library.

Originality/value

The paper suggests specific citizen's autonomous and self-directed learning activities and clarifies the substantial results of their learning. The results of this research demonstrate that public libraries have the unique potential to dynamically satisfy individual lifelong learning and citizen involvement. The paper demonstrates how public libraries are intrinsically linked with lifelong learning and civic involvement.
Evaluating the success of markerspace in a public library
Authors: Lille Maria
Published: October 2016

Purpose

Arising from the modern IT-driven society, libraries in Estonia face tremendous challenges. They are no longer viewed as collection facilities but rather as knowledge enhancers and creators. Libraries carry a significant potential to make a greater impact on communities by enabling informal ways of learning new skills and technologies. This paper aims to evaluate a pilot project at Narva Library MakerLab launched by the Narva City Government to motivate the citizens of Narva to learn new skills and improve their employment prospects.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of the study was on understanding how a library makerspace makes an impact on users’ skills, knowledge and attitudes. Quantitative measures for indicators were designed to evaluate the new skills and knowledge that participants learn during the workshops. Semi-structured interviews aimed to show values, behaviour, perception and aims for the future.

Findings

As an outcome of the study, it was found that the MakerLab project was successful; the participants learned new skills, felt an increase in self-confidence and improved their teamwork abilities. Many users engaged with prototyping and initiated new projects.

Originality/value

Setting up a makerspace in a public library is a recent trend and not much research has been done in this area. The study aims to contribute to the knowledge of the impact of makerspaces in a library environment.
Making a makerspace case for academic libraries in Nigeria
Authors: Okpala Helen Nneka
Published: October 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to give a highlight on the concept of makerspace and its perceived benefits in academic libraries in Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

The searches encompass current journal articles, books, newspapers, magazines, personal experiences on the concept of makerspace, 3D-printing and technologies in libraries. Practical examples of libraries that already have makerspaces in operation were sourced.

Findings

Findings of this study create awareness of benefits, challenges and strategies for developing and managing makerspaces in Nigerian academic libraries, using Zenith Library as a hypothetical sample.

Research limitations/implications

Only the proposal guide has been drafted. There is need for more investigations on the awareness of, and plan to adopt makerspace technologies in Nigerian academic libraries.

Practical implications

Librarians need to appreciate the makerspace technologies and forge ahead in establishing makerspace in strategic areas of their libraries which should serve as a meeting point for all users in the university community, and for the sharing of innovative ideas.

Social implications

There is need for a paradigm shift in Nigerian university libraries, hence the shift in librarians’ thinking and approach to find their place in the new maker movement.

Originality/value

The originality of the paper lies in its justification for establishing makerspace in Nigerian academic libraries alongside the drafted proposal which has been designed to serve as a guide to libraries in Nigeria, as no makerspace has been documented to be existing in any Nigerian library.
Additive manufacturing cost estimation for buy scenarios
Authors: Baldinger Matthias , Levy Gideon , Schönsleben Paul , Wandfluh Matthias
Published: October 2016

Purpose

To design for additive manufacturing (AM), the decision to use AM needs to be taken early in the product development process. Therefore, engineers need to be able to estimate AM part cost based on the few parameters available at this point in the process. This paper aims to develop suitable cost estimation models for this purpose, focusing on buy scenarios, as many companies choose to buy parts at service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies analogical cost estimation techniques to a data set of price quotations for laser sintering and laser melting parts.

Findings

The paper proposes easy-to-apply cost estimation models for laser sintering and laser melting for buy scenarios. Further, it generates new insights on the AM service provider market.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed models are only suitable for buy scenarios and are only a snapshot of cost achievable in 2014.

Practical implications

The proposed cost estimation models enable engineers to approximate AM part costs early in the product development process and thereby ease the decision to rapid manufacture certain parts.

Originality/value

This study addresses two gaps in the AM cost literature. It is the first study to take a qualitative approach to AM cost estimation, which is more suitable early in the product development process than the currently available quantitative studies. Further, it develops the first cost estimation for buy scenarios.