bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NEMO reshapes the protein aggregate interface and promotes aggrephagy by co-condensation with p62
Authors: Furthmann Nikolas , Angersbach Lena , Bader Verian , Blusch Alina , Goel Simran , Sánchez-Vicente Ana , Krause Laura J. , Grover Prerna , Trinkaus Victoria A. , van Well Eva M. , Jaugstetter Maximilian , Tschulik Kristina , Damgaard Rune Busk , Saft Carsten , Ellrichmann Gisa , Gold Ralf , Koch Arend , Englert Benjamin , Glatzel Markus , Hartl F. Ulrich , Nakamura Ken , Christine Chadwick W. , Huang Eric J. , Tatzelt Jörg , Winklhofer Konstanze F.
Published: June 2023

NEMO is a ubiquitin-binding protein which regulates canonical NF-κB pathway activation in innate immune signaling, cell death regulation and host-pathogen interactions. Here we identified an NF-κB-independent function of NEMO in proteostasis regulation by promoting autophagosomal clearance of protein aggregates. NEMO-deficient cells accumulate misfolded proteins upon proteotoxic stress and are vulnerable to proteostasis challenges. Moreover, a patient with a mutation in the NEMO gene resulting in defective binding of NEMO to linear ubiquitin chains, developed a widespread mixed brain proteinopathy, including α-synuclein, tau and TDP-43 pathology. NEMO amplifies linear ubiquitylation at α-synuclein aggregates and promotes the local concentration of p62 into foci. In vitro, NEMO lowers the threshold concentrations required for ubiquitin-dependent phase transition of p62. In summary, NEMO reshapes the aggregate surface for efficient autophagosomal clearance by providing a mobile phase at the aggregate interphase favoring co-condensation with p62.
Loss of Lamin A leads to the nuclear translocation of AGO2 and compromised RNA interference
Authors: Lobo Vivian , Nowak Iwona , Fernandez Carola , Correa Muler Ana Iris , Westholm Jakub O. , Huang Hsiang-Chi , Fabrik Ivo , Huynh Hang Thuy , Shcherbinina Evgeniia , Poyraz Melis , Härtlova Anetta , Benhalevy Daniel , Angeletti Davide , Sarshad Aishe A.
Published: June 2023

In mammals, RNA interference (RNAi) was historically studied as a cytoplasmic event; however, in the last decade, a growing number of reports convincingly show the nuclear localization of the Argonaute (AGO) proteins. Nevertheless, the extent of nuclear RNAi and its implication in biological mechanisms remain to be elucidated. We found that reduced Lamin A levels significantly induce nuclear influx of AGO2 in SHSY5Y neuroblastoma and A375 melanoma cancer cell lines, which normally have no nuclear AGO2. Lamin A KO manifested a more pronounced effect in SHSY5Y cells compared to A375 cells, evident by changes in cell morphology, increased cell proliferation, and oncogenic miRNA expression. Furthermore, in SHSY5Y cells, AGO fPAR-CLIP in Lamin A KO cells revealed significantly reduced activity of RNAi. Further exploration of the nuclear AGO interactome by mass spectrometry indicated that AGO2 is in complex with FAM120A, an RNA-binding protein and known interactor of AGO2. By performing FAM120A fPAR-CLIP, we discovered that FAM120A co-binds AGO targets and that this competition reduces the activity of RNAi. Therefore, loss of Lamin A triggers nuclear AGO2 translocation, RNAi impairment, and selective upregulation of oncogenic miRNAs, facilitating cancer cell proliferation.
Oatmeal and wheat flour as the sources of thyroid peroxidase (TPO), lipoxygenase (LOX) and xanthine oxidase (XO) modulators potentially applicable in the prevention of inflammatory thyroid diseases
Authors: Habza - Kowalska Ewa , Piwowarczyk Katarzyna , Czyż Jarosław , Gawlik - Dziki Urszula
Published: June 2023

Despite the widespread potential pro-health effects of ferulic acid (FA), their interference in the progression of thyroid dysfunction has mainly remained unresolved. Here, we combined in vitro enzyme studies with the in vitro cellular approach to investigate the potential of main dietary sources of FA - the oatmeal (OM) and wheat flour (WF) compounds for the prophylactics of inflammatory thyroid diseases. Potentially bioaccessible OM and WF compounds activated thyroid peroxidase (TPO), while inhibiting the activity of lipoxygenase (LOX) and xanthine oxidase (XO). Isobolographic studies revealed cooperation between them. Relatively strong inhibitory activity of bioaccessible OM compounds on LOX activity correlated with their cytostatic and pro-invasive effects in thyroid cancer model in vitro. These data indicate the potential of OM and WF products for the prophylactics of inflammatory thyroid diseases (incl. hypothyroidism). However, it should be considered with care, especially in the context of the oncological status of the patient.
RNA-RNA interactions between Respiratory syncytial virus and miR-26 and miR-27 are associated with regulation of cell cycle and antiviral immunity
Authors: Ressel Sarah , Kumar Sujai , Bermúdez-Barrientos Jose Roberto , Gordon Katrina , Lane Julia , Wu Jin , Abreu-Goodger Cei , Schwarze Jürgen , Buck Amy H.
Published: June 2023

microRNAs (miRNAs) regulate nearly all physiological processes but our understanding of exactly how they function remains incomplete, particularly in the context of viral infections. Here we adapt a biochemical method (CLEAR-CLIP) and analysis pipeline to identify targets of miRNAs in lung cells infected with Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). We show that RSV binds directly to miR-26 and miR-27 through seed pairing and demonstrate that these miRNAs target distinct gene networks associated with cell cycle and metabolism (miR-27) and antiviral immunity (miR-26). Many of the targets are de-repressed upon infection and we show that the miR-27 targets most sensitive to miRNA inhibition are those associated with cell cycle. Finally, we demonstrate that high confidence chimeras for miR-26 and miR-27 also map to regulatory regions. We validate that a proportion of miR-27 and Argonaute 2 (AGO2) is nuclear in infected cells and identify a long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) as a miR-27 target that is linked to transcriptional regulation of nearby genes. This work expands the target networks of miR-26 and miR-27 to include direct interactions with RSV and lncRNAs and implicate these miRNAs in regulation of key genes that impact the viral life cycle associated with cell cycle, metabolism, and antiviral immunity.
The TRIP6/LATS1 complex constitutes the tension sensor of α-catenin/vinculin at both bicellular and tricellular junctions
Authors: Xie Lin , Wu Gangyun , Liu Xiayu , Duan Xiufen , Zhou Kaiyao , Li Hua , Ning Wenxiu
Published: June 2023

Cell-cell mechanotransduction regulates tissue development and homeostasis. α-catenin, the core component of adherens junctions, functions as a tension sensor and transducer by recruiting vinculin and transducing the signals to influence cell behaviors. However, little is known about the components, distributions, and dynamics of the α-catenin based tension sensors at the cell junctions. Here, we uncovered the TRIP6/LATS1 complex locates at the tension sites where α-catenin/vinculin is at both the bicellular junctions (BCJs) and tricellular junctions (TCJs). Vinculin/TRIP6/LATS1 are prone to form as puncta in the cytoplasm without α-catenin participation. Furthermore, the tension sensing complex distributed stronger at TCJs and exhibited a discontinuously button-like pattern on BCJs. The α-catenin/vinculin BiFC-based mechanosensor further proved the discontinuous distribution of the tension at BCJs, and was more motile than the TCJs. In summary, our study revealed that TRIP6 and LATS1 are novel compositions of the tension sensor, together with the core complex of α-catenin/vinculin, at both the BCJs and TCJs. This work gives insights and improvements in exploring the molecular mechanism that mediates cell-cell mechanotransduction at cell junctions.
Apical polarity and actomyosin dynamics regulate Hippo signaling by controlling Kibra subcellular localization
Authors: Tokamov Sherzod A. , Nouri Nicki , Rich Ashley , Buiter Stephan , Glotzer Michael , Fehon Richard G.
Published: June 2023

Cell polarity and actomyosin networks are key features that organize cells of epithelial tissues and are known to regulate tissue growth. However, the mechanisms by which polarity cues and actomyosin cytoskeleton influence intracellular signaling cascades that control growth remain poorly understood. The Hippo pathway is an evolutionarily conserved regulator of tissue growth and is known to integrate inputs from both polarity and actomyosin components. An upstream activator of the Hippo pathway, Kibra, localizes into distinct pools at the junctional and medial regions of the apical cortex in epithelial cells, and medial accumulation was shown to promote Kibra activity. Here, we demonstrate that cortical Kibra distribution is controlled by a tug of war between apical polarity and actomyosin dynamics. We show that while the apical polarity network, in part via aPKC, tethers Kibra at the junctional cortex to silence its activity, medial actomyosin flows promote Kibra-mediated Hippo complex formation at the medial cortex, thereby activating the Hippo pathway. This study provides a mechanistic understanding of the relationship between the Hippo pathway, polarity, and actomyosin cytoskeleton and offers novel insights into how fundamental features of epithelial tissue architecture can serve as inputs into signaling cascades that control tissue growth, patterning, and morphogenesis.
PRIMARY HEALTH CARE PERFORMANCE INDICATORS MODEL IN A PERFORMANCE-BASED CAPITATION SCHEME TO MEASURE NATIONAL HEALTH INSURANCE HEALTH SERVICE EQUITY (PROTOCOL STUDY)
Authors: Aryani Ari Dwi , Bachtiar Adang , Candi Cicilya
Published: June 2023

The inequity of health services still occurs after the implementation of the National Health Insurance (JKN). Regular monitoring of the Performance of Primary Health Care is the key to reducing the inequity of health services as the main goal of JKN. The application of Performance-Based Capitation (KBK) with three indicators since 2016, shows an improvement in Primary Health Care’s performance in improving quality and efficiency in the first level of service in comparison. Primary Health Care performance is influenced by Primary Health Care capacity and has an impact on the output of primary service performance (Health Service Equity). This study aims to develop a model of performance indicators, Primary Health Care capacity and equity indicators, in order to measure healthcare equity. The research design used an exploratory sequential-mixed method. The research is divided into three stages. Phase one is a systematic review to identify indicators that can be used in measuring the capacity, the performance of Primary Health Care and healthcare equity. Phase two is carried out with a qualitative approach with the Consensus Decision Making Group (CDMG) to determine indicators that can be used in measuring the capacity and performance of Primary Health Care as well as measuring health service equity with experts. Phase three is to develop a model of Primary Health Care performance indicators based on a capitation scheme that can measure the equity of healthcare access. This stage is carried out using Multilevel Structural Equation Modeling (MSEM) analysis. It is hoped that this model can be used by Social Security Administrator for Health (BPJS Kesehatan) and the Ministry of Health to measure the performance of Primary Health Care and health service equity.
GENDER DIFFERENCES IN ANTIBIOTICS USE BEHAVIOUR AND ACCESS TO ANTIBIOTICS IN LOW- AND MIDDLE-INCOME COUNTRIES: A SCOPING REVIEW PROTOCOL
Authors: Adewusi Oluwafemi J. , Cassidy Rebecca , Aboderin Aaron O. , Bailey Simon , Hotham Sarah
Published: June 2023

Background

In low-and middle-income countries (LMICs), the persistent lack of access and high inappropriate use of antibiotics, which are fuelled by gender-related factors continue to facilitate antimicrobial resistance which in turn reduces the capacity to treat infectious diseases. However, there is lack of sufficient clarity on the nature and extent of gender influence on access to antibiotics and antibiotic use behaviour. This proposed study aims to systematically review available literature in order to map out the nature and extent of evidence on gender differences and related factors influencing antibiotics use behaviour and access to antibiotics in LMICs.

Methods

This scoping review will be conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines for scoping reviews. The MEDLINE, PsycINFO, African Journal Online (AJOL), Web of Science and CINAHL databases will be searched for peer-reviewed articles and relevant electronic grey literature will also be included in the study. A predefined excel spreadsheet will be utilized for data extraction and analysis. Findings will be presented in narrative summary and tables.

Conclusion

It is expected that this study will identify knowledge and gaps on gender contributory factors to antibiotics use and access to antibiotics. These will contribute to understanding gender health inequalities and areas for further research on gender mainstreaming in antimicrobial stewardship efforts in the LMICs. This study findings will be disseminated through presentations in scientific conferences and publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Scoping review registration with Open Science Framework

Registration DOI:https://doi.org/10.17605/OSF.IO/N5W8E
The impacts of the wind on GPS of quadrotors
Authors: Ercan Hamdi , Ulucan Hamdi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The Global Positioning System (GPS) is crucial for determining the positions of quadrotors, enabling safe flight and maintaining stability against environmental conditions. This study aims to investigate the effect of wind on the GPS of quadrotors experimentally.

Design/methodology/approach

This experimental study was conducted using an F450 frame, 980 kV motors and a Pixhawk flight controller to manage the quadrotor’s flight. To investigate the effects of wind on the quadrotor’s GPS during flight, a Pixhawk 4 Holybro flight controller was used. The experimental tests were performed on a predetermined route at different wind speeds.

Findings

Analysis of the data obtained from the flight tests showed that GPS signals were more affected as the wind speed increased. The percentage of GPS jamming levels reached 18% at high wind speeds.

Practical implications

Positioning services will be even more critical for quadrotors, which are expected to be used more frequently in public areas. This study is expected to be a reference for GPS-related research.

Originality/value

Winds pose a significant threat to the safe flight of quadrotors in many ways. This study experimentally investigates the effects of wind on the GPSs of quadrotors and to what extent it affects them at different wind speeds under real weather conditions. The obtained data shows that wind has a significant impact on GPS jamming.
Influence of drop test impact on the physiochemical attributes of tomatoes
Authors: Pathare Pankaj B. , AL-Dairi Mai , Al Mahdouri Adil
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to determine the influence of bruise damage generated from the impact test on the physical, chemical and nutritional responses of tomato fruit.

Design/methodology/approach

The impact loading was applied from different heights. The impact energies for 20, 40 and 60 cm drop heights were 129.59, 259.18 and 388.77 mJ, respectively. The injured samples were kept for 48 hours at low (10 °C) and ambient (22 °C) storage temperatures. Weight loss, firmness, color, total soluble solids (TSS), lycopene and carotenoids were measured before the impact test (day 0) and after 48 hours of the impact and storage.

Findings

The drop height of 60 cm and storage at 22 °C showed the highest values in the bruised area. The impact from the 60 cm drop height significantly reduced weight, lightness, yellowness, hue, firmness, lycopene and carotenoids, particularly at 22 °C storage condition. Redness (a*) and color index (CI) showed a remarkable increase (p < 0.05) at 22 °C on tomatoes affected from the highest impact level (388.77 mJ) after 48 hours of storage. No pronounced significance was seen between TSS and drop heights. This study has confirmed that tomato bruising for a short-term storage period induces physiological changes at different storage temperature conditions.

Originality/value

The study can confirm the crucial role of inappropriate handling in increasing fresh produce loss within short-term storage. Also, this research can be considered as a guideline for transporters, handlers, processors, distributors and horticulture researchers in the fresh produce supply chain during postharvest operations.
Understanding railway passengers’ E-ticketing usage intention in an emerging economic context: application of an extended technology acceptance model
Authors: Awal Md. Rabiul , Arzin Tahmina Akter , Islam Md. Mirajul , Hasan Md. Tareq
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This techno-centric and too much busy day-to-day living style of citizens pressurizes the implementation of E-ticketing service to adapt with change. Thus, this study aims to examine the factors influencing railway passengers’ E-ticketing service acceptance and usage intention in Bangladesh and to extend the widely used Technology Acceptance Model through inserting two new constructs.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper employs structural equation modeling to test model’s paths developed through theoretical research framework. Moreover, a structured questionnaire was administered at different railway stations in northern and western parts of Bangladesh to collect data. Total of 302 responses were considered for statistical analysis to test hypotheses after considering anomalies and outliers in raw data.

Findings

The study results show that technology trust (TT) has the strongest impact on passengers’ E-ticketing usage intention rather than perceived ease of use and perceived usefulness (PU). Meanwhile, the easiness of using technology to reserve tickets does matter to female passengers rather than male passengers wherein PU and TT do not do that.

Originality/value

The findings of this study might be helpful for the railway authorities to improve the ticket reservation service quality online by developing the advanced booking application and minimizing the pressure on other transportation. Therefore, this empirical study will contribute to this domain for further study that ensures full satisfaction of passengers and uplift the railway passengers’ usage intention for E-ticketing which then helps the government to implement the digitization slogan with efficiency and effectiveness.
Looming market failure in cloud computing: a new institutional economics perspective
Authors: Tripathy Samit , Sengupta Angan , Jyotishi Amalendu
Published: June 2023

Purpose

In recent times, high demand for cloud-based services has led to substantial focus in extant literature from technological and business perspectives. However, the prevailing market imperfections have not drawn much interest. This study aims to emphasize on potential sources of market imperfections from new institutional economics (NIE) perspective and attempts to bring forth the importance of public policy in cloud computing ecosystem.

Design/methodology/approach

This study takes a review-based deductive approach to present a set of propositions which highlight potential causes leading to suboptimal performance of cloud-based services.

Findings

Lack of clarity around ownership and property rights, high asset specificity, existence of information asymmetry and bounded rationality of the provider and consumer, lead to higher transaction cost for providers and consumers, discouraging participation. This would lead to moral hazard and adverse selection and create market imperfections. Appropriate contractual guidelines, standards, legal framework and policy measures will reduce the risk of such imperfections.

Research limitations/implications

As the focus of the study is to forward the propositions and not to empirically test them, future researchers can adopt data-driven studies to validate those propositions.

Practical implications

To ensure equity in the cloud-market, government and industry bodies should work towards enabling both the small and large players to use cloud-based services efficiently and effectively. Appropriate public policy measures can help remove potential market imperfections, encourage better participation and adoption of cloud-based services.

Originality/value

This study identifies potential market imperfections in cloud computing ecosystem through the lens of the theoretical frameworks of NIE.
A framework of robust project portfolio selection problem under strategic objectives considering the risk propagation
Authors: Han Ruyue , Li Xingmei , Shen Zhong , Jia Dongqing
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The consideration of the substitution phenomenon in the project portfolio selection problem can improve the robustness of project portfolio selection and help enterprises better achieve their strategic objectives. However, the existence of inter-project risk propagation will have a negative impact on project substitution. This paper proposes a new framework for project portfolio selection and constructs a risk propagation model based on strategic objectives to study the impact of risk propagation on substitution in the project portfolio.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first construct a risk propagation model based on strategic objectives to describe the risk propagation between projects. Then the project substitution phenomenon based on risk propagation is put forward, and the calculation method of substitution loss is given. Finally, a robust project portfolio selection framework based on strategic objectives considering risk propagation is constructed.

Findings

The analysis of a case study demonstrates that (1) With the increase of risk intensity, the strategic loss of the same project portfolio increases linearly, and under the same risk intensity, the more projects in the portfolio, the stronger the robustness. (2) Considering risk propagation, the effect of project substitution is significantly weakened, and the strategic loss rate of the project portfolio is significantly increased compared with that of a direct attack.

Originality/value

This study is the first to take the project substitution into account in the project portfolio selection process. Moreover, the authors describe inter-project risk propagation and analyze the impact of risk propagation on the project substitution phenomenon. Finally, the authors extend the evaluation index of robustness. This paper puts forward a new way to solve the problem of project portfolio selection.
Supplier involvement in NPD projects: the buyer's perspective on the complementary roles of social capital and social exchange for project performance
Authors: Benhayoun Lamiae , Le-Dain Marie-Anne , Saikouk Tarik , Schiele Holger , Calvi Richard
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Buying firms involve suppliers early in New Product Development (NPD) projects to benefit from their capabilities. The authors investigate the joint impact on project performance improvement, of the social capital established throughout the project, and the strategic preferred buyer/supplier statuses awarded prior to the project, from the buyer's perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose a conceptual model underlining the complementary contribution to project performance of social capital dimensions and of preferred partners' statuses resulting from social exchange expectations. The model is analyzed with Partial Least Squares using 80 responses of purchasers and R&D managers involved in collaborative NPD projects with suppliers.

Findings

The relational capital built during the project has a positive central role, with a direct impact on NPD project performance and mediating effects through cognitive and structural capitals. The preferred partners' statuses have strong direct impacts on performance, and mediating effects that do not completely supplant the social capital's contribution.

Practical implications

The implications for the efficient management of supplier involvement are twofold. First, the authors encourage strategic investments of buying firms to acquire preferred buyer's status and to support preferred supplier programs. Second, the authors alert them on the importance of establishing trust and shared cognition during the project.

Originality/value

This study captures NPD project performance from the social angle of buyer–supplier relationship management. It demonstrates the complementarity of relationship management at the strategic and operational levels, before and during the project unfolding.
Drowning in silence: a scale development and validation of quiet quitting and quiet firing
Authors: Anand Amitabh , Doll Jessica , Ray Prantika
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aims to develop and validate two scales: quiet quitting (QQ), measuring individual-level work disengagement, low organisational commitment and not going above and beyond in work, and quiet firing (QF), measuring employee perceptions of the degree to which their managers devalue them and when organisations intentionally create a situation to make them quit.

Design/methodology/approach

The scale development process involved item generation through literature search, review and interviews with working executives. The scales were then tested online by 264 participants from India.

Findings

In the quantitative analysis, the QQ and QF scales have good psychometric properties when tested with factor analysis, reliability analysis and Cronbach’s alpha. Furthermore, the convergent, discriminant and predictive validity of outcome constructs also showed significance.

Originality/value

This study found that the QQ and QF scales are highly reliable and exhibit good psychometric properties. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies to empirically develop and test the QQ and QF constructs and offer implications for organisations and managers.
How does digitalization alter the paradox of supply base concentration? The effects of digitalization intensity and breadth
Authors: Yang Ziwei , Hu Wenjin , Shao Jinan , Shou Yongyi , He Qile
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The highly uncertain and turbulent environments nowadays intensify the paradoxical effects of supply base concentration (SBC) on improving cost efficiency while increasing idiosyncratic risk (IR). Digitalization is regarded as a remedy for this paradox, yet digitization's potentially curative effect has not been empirically tested. Leveraging the lenses of paradox theory and information processing theory (IPT), this study explores how two distinct dimensions of digitalization, i.e. digitalization intensity (DI) and digitalization breadth (DB), reconcile the paradoxical effects of SBC.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a panel dataset of 1,238 Chinese manufacturing firms in the period of 2012–2020, this study utilizes fixed-effects regression models to test the proposed hypotheses.

Findings

The authors discover that SBC enhances a firm's cost efficiency but induces greater IR. More importantly, there is evidence that DI restrains the amplifying effect of SBC on IR. However, DB weakens the enhancing effect of SBC on cost efficiency and aggravates the SBC's exacerbating effect on IR.

Originality/value

This study advances the understanding of the paradoxical effects of SBC on cost efficiency and IR from a paradox theory perspective. More importantly, to the best of the authors' knowledge, the authors' study is the first to untangle the differential roles of DI and DB in reconciling the paradox of SBC. This study also provides practitioners with nuanced insights into how the practitioners should use appropriate tactics to deploy digital technologies effectively.
Criminal behaviour on detection and penalty: an experimental evidence from drug market game
Authors: Chaiwat Thanee , Yomnak Torplus
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The economic theory of crime states that crime can be prevented by either increasing the probability of being detected or increasing penalties. However, individual responses to fines and imprisonment may vary, and corruption can reduce both the probability of being detected and punishment costs. The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of corruption on crime prevention.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used an experiment to investigate the effects of criminalisation and corruption. This study tested whether individuals respond differently to variables on the probability of being detected and punishment costs and whether corruption affects these variables.

Findings

The results of this study demonstrated that increasing the probability of being detected initially reduces crime rates more efficiently than increasing penalties, then the efficiency gradually reduces, and that corruption reduces the effectiveness of detection and punishment.

Research limitations/implications

Ineffective corruption prevention is not solely attributed to corrupt police, as illicit payments and personal connections also contribute to corruption.

Practical implications

Policymakers and law enforcement agencies should focus on preventive measures by increasing the chance of being detected, creating transparency and encouraging public participation to address corruption problems thoroughly.

Originality/value

This research conducted in Thailand investigates the effectiveness of crime-prevention mechanisms and considers the impact of corruption. This study offers insights into how criminals perceive detection and punishment costs under different social-political environments.
Determinants of BPMS use for knowledge management
Authors: Martín-Navarro Alicia , Lechuga Sancho María Paula , Medina-Garrido Jose Aurelio
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Companies are increasingly implementing business process management systems (BPMSs) to support their processes. However, there is a gap in the literature regarding whether users also use BPMSs to manage the knowledge needed for processes to be completed. This study aims to analyze the factors that cause users to use BPMSs to manage the knowledge required in business processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes an original model that integrates two successful information system models applied to BPMSs and knowledge management systems. To test the hypotheses derived from this new model, data were collected from 242 mature BPMS users from 12 Spanish and Latin American companies. Structural equation modeling with AMOS was used to examine the model.

Findings

Users’ perceived usefulness of a BPMS when using it for knowledge management (KM) is the only factor influencing them to use it for KM.

Practical implications

This study has practical implications for managers wishing to successfully implement a BPMS to support processes and for employees to use the knowledge embedded in the tool. The latter will only happen if users perceive the tool’s usefulness for KM.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this model is the first empirically validated model to successfully analyze BPMS users’ tendency to use BPMSs as a tool to support necessary KM in processes.
Influence of consumption resources on observers’ attitudes towards luxury brands: the perspective of power distance belief
Authors: Yao Qi , Hu Chao , Du Jianjian
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To provide theoretical guidance on improving luxury brands’ marketing performance, this study aims to examine the impact mechanism and boundary conditions of luxury brand buyers’ consumption resources on observers’ brand attitudes from the perspective of consumers’ power distance beliefs (PDBs).

Design/methodology/approach

Four experimental studies were conducted. Study 1 examined the influence of the interaction of consumption resources and PDBs on luxury brand attitudes; Study 2 examined the mediating role of prestige perception. Study 3 excluded alternative explanations of (dis)association motivation and envy. Finally, Study 4 examined the moderating effect of brand relationship norms.

Findings

Consumers with low PDBs had lower attitudes towards luxury brands when consumption resources were acquired through luck (rather than effort). However, no significant difference in luxury brand attitudes was found between these two consumer groups when PDBs were high. Consumers’ perceptions of prestige played a mediating role in the main effect, whereas brand relationship norms moderated the main effect.

Originality/value

First, this study reveals the unique role of PDBs in shaping consumer attitudes towards luxury brands. Second, it uses consumption resources as a signal for luxury consumption and identifies a way to influence consumers’ attitudes towards luxury brands, namely, their perceptions of prestige. Third, it uncovers the influence of consumers’ brand relationship norms on the formation of luxury brand attitudes.
Liminal digital birthspaces: social media and consumer proactivity for well-being
Authors: Bakri Marlini , Davey Janet , Krisjanous Jayne , Maude Robyn
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Despite the prevalence of technology in health care, marketing research on social media in the birthspace is limited. The purpose of this paper is to explore how birthing women leverage social media for transformative well-being in the liminal context of birth.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative study of women who had recently experienced birth was undertaken. Thematic analysis of data from in-depth interviews reveals birthing women’s digital practices and social media capabilities for well-being in a liminal space.

Findings

Within the birthspace, women use social media and digital platforms in an effortful and goal-directed way for role transitions and transformation, curating self and other history, goal striving and normalizing experience. These digital practice styles facilitate consumer integration of the liminal digital birthspace and in situ service encounter enabling diverse value outcomes. Drawing on liminality and social presence theories, the authors interpret these practices as demonstrating three interactive liminal stages of suspending, comprehending and transforming. Multi-modality and rapid connection afforded by digital devices and social media platforms provide social presence (according to perceived immediacy and intimacy) enabling transformative well-being outcomes.

Originality/value

This study is unique, as it provides insights into the traditionally private health service experience of birth. Further, the authors extend the understanding of liminal spaces and use of digital technology, specifically for transformative outcomes, by proposing a framework of consumers’ digital practice styles for well-being in liminal spaces.
Workplace ostracism and cyberloafing: a social cognitive perspective
Authors: Koay Kian Yeik , Lai Catherine Hui Yi
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to better understand the effect of workplace ostracism on cyberloafing by examining the mediating effect of moral disengagement. The role of organisational commitment as a moderator of the association between workplace ostracism and cyberloafing is also examined.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed hypotheses are tested with survey data collected from 243 employees among public listed companies in Malaysia. Data are analysed using partial least squares structural equation modelling.

Findings

The results show that workplace ostracism has a significant positive influence on cyberloafing. Furthermore, it is observed that workplace ostracism serves as a mediating factor in the link between workplace ostracism and cyberloafing. Finally, organisational commitment is revealed to have no significant moderating effect on the relationship between workplace ostracism and cyberloafing.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to build and test a model based on social cognitive theory that examines the fundamental mechanisms through which workplace ostracism influences cyberloafing.
Ameliorative effects of microencapsulatedSpirulina platensisin beverage; physicochemical, simulated release, and organoleptic properties
Authors: Zamri Nur Ain Syuhada , Kamaruding Noor Azlina , Shaharuddin Shahrulzaman
Published: June 2023

Purpose

The use ofSpirulinasp. in food is limited by its bitter flavour and low absorption in the gastrointestinal system. The purpose of this study is to develop encapsulatedSpirulina-alginate beads and to determine the physicochemical properties, the release efficiency in the simulated gastrointestinal fluid and the sensory acceptance of the beads when added into a rose syrup beverage.

Design/methodology/approach

Spirulina-alginate beads were prepared based on 3 × 3 factorial experiments consisting of three concentrations (1%, 2% and 3%) of plain sodium alginate and three concentrations (1, 3 and 5%) (w/v) ofSpirulina. EncapsulatedSpirulina-alginate beads were evaluated for their encapsulation effectiveness, size, texture, morphology, colour,in vitrorelease rate and sensory properties.

Findings

Sample H (3% sodium alginate + 1%Spirulina) had higher encapsulation efficiency (82.3%) but less protein (38.2 ppm) than Sample J (3% sodium alginate + 5%Spirulina) which produced more protein (126.4 ppm) but had lower encapsulation efficiency (54.5%). Alginate was the primary factor affecting bead size, and the texture became harder at 3% sodium alginate but softer at 5%Spirulina. As the concentration ofSpirulinaincreased, the intensity of the green colour diminished. The encapsulated samples released test was better than the control samples, and Sample B (1% sodium alginate + 1%Spirulina) was preferred by the panellists in the sensory study.

Originality/value

This newly developed encapsulatedSpirulinawill improve the beverage acceptability, minimize the bitterness and increase the release percentage ofSpirulinain simulated gastrointestinal.
Resilience in global supply chains: analysis of responses, recovery actions and strategic changes triggered by major disruptions
Authors: Holgado Maria , Niess Alexander
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Are major and frequent disruptions transforming global supply chains? This study aims to investigate how multinational companies (MNCs) are responding to the phenomenon of accumulated major disruptions in recent years and plausible new paradigm of unstable conditions and environmental uncertainty from a supply chain resilience (SCRES) perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an inductive interpretivist approach based on interpretive phenomenology, this study gathers insights from ten MNCs supply chain managers and international consultants who participated as key informants via semi-structured interviews, sharing their experience of the phenomenon. Additionally, secondary sources such as press releases, media articles and industry reports were used for data collection.

Findings

Findings include five categories of recovery actions, i.e. levelling, rationing, buffering, bridging and boundary redefining, key strategic changes in competitive priorities, internal organisation and coordination structures, and a hierarchy between SCRES characteristics, integrated in an empirically derived conceptual framework connecting these constructs. This contributes to middle-range theories within SCRES body of knowledge. The authors also identify a set of areas for future SCRES research.

Practical implications

Findings can support MNCs’ supply chain professionals in designing and managing resilient global supply chains, based on learnings from the recent highly disruptive environment, particularly, regarding recovery actions and resilience-building strategic changes contributing to agility and robustness in global supply chains.

Originality/value

Non-positivist interpretive and inductive works are scarce in SCRES research. By adopting this novel approach for this field, the authors broadened the categorisation of responses used in previous works and identified prominent strategic changes and SCRES characteristics and relations among constructs, thus bringing conceptual clarity to SCRES research within the context of the study.
Creating a culture of learning – mentoring in a PDS
Authors: Schlaack Nicole
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Professional development schools (PDSs) advocate links between schools and teacher education programs, but how do mentor teachers in schools experience their role in this? Therefore, this research focuses on mentor teachers to investigate the change brought about by the implementation of a complex-wide PDS.

Design/methodology/approach

This qualitative single case study in a newly formed complex-wide PDS is based on surveys and individual interviews with mentor teachers from one school complex area. Activity systems analysis provided the framework to analyze mentor teachers interactions, their role and activities.

Findings

Mentor teachers expressed a sense of purpose in educating the next generation of teachers, experienced continuous learning in the collaboration with the teacher candidates and recognized opportunities for professional development offered by teacher education programs.

Practical implications

Schools and teacher education institutes rely on mentor teachers in their support to educate the next generation of teachers. Knowing what activities and values mentor teachers place on their mentoring can guide school administrations and teacher education institutes in their support and recruitment for mentor teachers.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the development of teacher education in the State of Hawaii and has identified helpful structures for meaningful teacher education.
Drivers of soil organic carbon stock during tropical forest succession
Authors: Satdichanh Manichanh , Dossa Gbadamassi G. O. , Yan Kai , Tomlinson Kyle W. , Barton Kasey E. , Crow Susan E. , Winowiecki Leigh , Vågen Tor‐G , Xu Jianchu , Harrison Rhett D.
Published: June 2023

Soil organic matter contributes to productivity in terrestrial ecosystems and contains more carbon than is found in the atmosphere. Yet, there is little understanding of soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration processes during tropical forest succession, particularly after land abandonment from agriculture practices.

Here, we used vegetation and environmental data from two large‐scale surveys covering a total landscape area of 20,000 ha in Southeast Asia to investigate the effects of plant species diversity, functional trait diversity, phylogenetic diversity, above‐ground biomass and environmental factors on SOC sequestration during forest succession.

We found that functional trait diversity plays an important role in determining SOC sequestration across successional trajectories. Increases in SOC carbon storage were associated with indirect positive effects of species diversity and succession age via functional trait diversity, but phylogenetic diversity and above‐ground biomass showed no significant relationship with SOC stock. Furthermore, the effects of soil properties and functional trait diversity on SOC carbon storage shift across elevation.

Synthesis. Our results suggest that reforestation and restoration management practices that implement a trait‐based approach by combining long‐lived and short‐lived species (conservative and acquisitive traits) to increase plant functional diversity could enhance SOC sequestration for climate change mitigation and adaptation efforts, as well as accelerate recovery of healthy soils.
Ultrasonic extraction of soy protein isolate: Characterization and comparison with microwave and enzymatic extraction methods
Authors: Das Dipak , Panesar Parmjit S. , Saini Charanjiv S.
Published: June 2023

Soy meal as an agro‐industrial by‐product produced by the soybean oil processing industry is rich in protein. To valorize soy meal, the present study was aimed at the optimization of soy protein isolate (SPI) extraction by ultrasound treatment, its characterization, and comparison with microwave, enzymatic, and conventionally extracted SPI. Maximum yield (24.17% ± 0.79%) and protein purity (91.6% ± 1.08%) of SPI were obtained at the optimized ultrasound extraction conditions of 15.38:1 (liquid–solid ratio), 51.85% (amplitude), 21.70°C (temperature), 3.49 s (pulse), and 11.01 min (time). The SPI extracted with ultrasound treatment showed a smaller particle size (27.24 ± 0.33 µm) as compared to that extracted with microwave, enzymatically, or conventional treatment. Functional characteristics, namely, water and oil binding capacity, emulsion properties, and foaming properties of ultrasonically extracted SPI were increased by 40%–50% as compared to SPI extracted with microwave treatment, enzymatically, or conventionally. Structural and thermal properties studied by Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning colorimeter showed amorphous, secondary structural change, and high thermal resistance of ultrasonically extracted SPI. Increased functionality of ultrasonically obtained SPI can enhance its application in the development of various new food products.

Practical Application

Soybean meal is one of the richest sources of protein and has huge potential to lessen protein‐based malnutrition. Most of the studies on soy protein extraction were found to be based on the conventional methods that yield less quantity of protein. Hence, ultrasound treatment which is one of the novel nonthermal techniques has been selected for the present work and optimized for soy protein extraction. The ultrasound treatment showed significant improvement in extraction yield, proximate composition, amino acids profile, and improvement of functional properties of SPI as compared to the conventional, microwave, and enzymatic methods which proved the novelty of the work. Hence, the ultrasound technique could be used to increase the applications of SPI for developing a wide range of food products.
Who has naming rights? The framing of children's mental health issues in discursive therapy with their caregivers
Authors: Reid Katherine
Published: June 2023

Children in Western countries are being referred for therapy at increased rates. There is, however, a lack of research that explores how social workers, in the role of therapist, engage children and their caregivers to determine the ‘presenting concerns’ for therapy. This study uses a Critical Discourse analysis of therapy transcripts to investigate if and how children are afforded the right to name the issues they may face. The study examines the politics of knowledge production in the therapeutic triad between the therapist, child and caregiver. The messy realities of child‐centred practice are shown. The findings reveal the complex operations of power in therapy interactions and the influence of behavioural discourses in framing children's mental health issues, positioning children as therapeutic subjects. Findings underscore the need for social workers to find socio‐political ways to conceptualize, with children, the issues that impact on their lives, using externalizing practices and therapeutic resources.