bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Definition of alleles and altered regulatory motifs across Cas9-edited cell populations
Authors: Ehmsen Kirk T. , Knuesel Matthew T. , Martinez Delsy , Asahina Masako , Aridomi Haruna , Yamamoto Keith R.
Published: September 2019

Background

Genetic alteration of candidate response elements at their native chromosomal loci is the only valid determinant of their potential transcriptional regulatory activities. Targeted DNA cleavage by Cas9 coupled with cellular repair processes can produce arrays of alleles that can be defined by massively parallel sequencing by synthesis (SBS), presenting an opportunity to generate and survey edited cell populations that include informative alterations. Such editing efforts commonly rely on subclonal enrichment to isolate cells with preferred genotypic properties at target loci; short nucleotide adducts (indices/barcodes) allow PCR-amplified molecules from diverse sample sources to be pooled, sequenced, and demultiplexed to resolve source-specific content. Not widely available, however, are capabilities for barcoding thousands of clones, or for automated analysis of individual candidate regulatory loci PCR-amplified and sequenced from a genetically heterogeneous population—specifically, imputation of discrete genotype(s) by allele definition and abundance, and identification of altered regulatory factor binding motifs.

Results

We describe a panel of 192 8-nucleotide barcode primers compatible with Illumina® sequencing platforms, and the application of these barcodes to genotypic analysis of Cas9-edited clones. Permutations of the ninety-six i7 (read 1) and ninety-six i5 (read 2) barcodes allow unique labeling of up to 9,216 distinct samples. We created three independent Python scripts: SampleSheet.py automates construction of Illumina® Sample Sheets encoding up to 9,216 barcode:sample relationships; ImputedGenotypes.py defines alleles and imputes genotypes from demultiplexed fastq files; CollatedMotifs.py flags transcription factor recognition motif matches altered in alleles relative to a reference sequence.

Conclusions

Code-enabled definition of alleles and regulatory motifs in sequenced, demultiplexed amplicons facilitates evaluation of genetic diversity in up to 9,216 distinct samples. Here, we demonstrate the utility of three scripts in analysis of cell populations targeted by Cas9 for disruption of glucocorticoid receptor (GR) binding sites near FKBP5, a GR-regulated gene in the human adenocarcinoma cell line A549. SampleSheet.py, ImputedGenotypes.py, and CollatedMotifs.py operate independently and are broadly applicable beyond the case described here.
DNA origami-based single-molecule force spectroscopy unravels the molecular basis of RNA Polymerase III pre-initiation complex stability
Authors: Kramm Kevin , Schröder Tim , Gouge Jerome , Vera Andrés Manuel , Heiss Florian B. , Liedl Tim , Engel Christoph , Vannini Alessandro , Tinnefeld Philip , Grohmann Dina
Published: September 2019

The TATA-binding protein (TBP) and a transcription factor (TF) IIB-like factor compound the fundamental core of all eukaryotic initiation complexes. The reason for the emergence and strict requirement of the additional intiation factor Bdp1, which is unique to the RNA polymerase (RNAP) III sytem, however, remained elusive. A poorly studied aspect in this context is the effect of DNA strain, that arises from DNA compaction and transcriptional activity, on the efficiency of initiation complex formation. We made use of a new nanotechnological tool – a DNA origami-based force clamp - to follow the assembly of human initiation complexes in the Pol II and Pol III system at the single-molecule level under piconewton forces. We demonstrate that TBP-DNA complexes are force-sensitive and TFIIB is necessary and sufficient to stabilise TBP on a strained RNAP II promoter. In contrast, Bdp1 is the pivotal component that ensures stable anchoring of initiation factors, and thus the polymerase itself, in the RNAP III system. Thereby, we offer an explanation for the crucial role of Bdp1 for the high transcriptional output of Pol III genes for the first time.
Identification of a female determinant gene for the sexual determination of a hemipteran insect, the brown planthopper
Authors: Zhuo Ji-Chong , Zhang Hou-Hong , Xie Yu-Cheng , Li Han-Jing , Hu Qing-Ling , Zhang Chuan-Xi
Published: September 2019

The sex determination mechanism for hemipteran species remains poorly understood. During the sex determination of the brown planthopper (BPH), Nilaparvata lugens, one species of Hemiptera, the functions of doublesex (Nldsx) and NlTra-2 (NlTra-2) genes were identified in our previous studies. Here, we identify an upstream gene for Nldsx in the sex determination cascade, NlFmd, which acts as female determinant gene for N. lugens. The sex-specific transcript of NlFmd (NlFmd-F) encodes an arginine/serine-, and proline-rich protein that is essential for female development. The knockdown of NlFmd resulted in the development of pseudomales, with sex-specific alternative Nldsx processing, and maternal RNA interference (RNAi) against NlFmd generates male-only progeny. Moreover, homologous genes for NlFmd have also been identified in two rice planthopper species, the white-backed planthopper (WBPH, Sogotalla furcifera) and the small brown planthopper (SBPH, Laodelphax striatellus), and these genes appear to be involved in the sex determination cascades for these species. Our data suggest that the sex determination cascade in Delphacidae is conserved.
Solvatochromism and mechanochromism observed in a triphenylamine derivative
Authors: Guo Chunyang , Zhang Qi , Zhu Bingqing , Zhu Bin , Zhou Weiqun , Ren Guobin , Mei Xuefeng
Published: September 2019

A donor–π–acceptor fluorescent dye, 4-[N,N-di(4-phenyl)amino]benzaldehyde 4-chlorobenzoyl hydrazone (TPA-CBH), based on a triphenylamine derivative (TPA) and 4-chlorobenzoyl hydrazine (CBH) was designed and synthesized. The optical properties of this luminogen were investigated in solutions as well as in the solid states. In the intramolecular charge-transfer (CT) mechanism, TPA-CBH exhibits solvatochromism when dissolved in various polar solvents. Aggregation-induced emission was observed with the changes of tetrahydrofuran/water ratios. In the solid state, mechanochromic fluorescence is observed when the samples are stressed under different conditions. Based on structural analyses and theoretical calculations, it is found that intra- and intermolecular CT processes play a key role in the diversity of fluorescent properties.
Lanthanide coordination polymers based on designed bifunctional 2-(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridin-4′-yl)benzenesulfonate ligand: syntheses, structural diversity and highly tunable emission
Authors: Hu Yi-Chen , Bai Chao , Hu Huai-Ming , Li Chuan-Ti , Zhang Tian-Hua , Liu Weisheng
Published: September 2019

Seven novel lanthanide coordination polymers, [Eu(STP)(glu)]
n
(1), [Ln4(STP)2(glu)5]
n
·4nH2O [Ln = Er (2), Yb (3)], [Ln(STP)(1,3-bdc)]
n
·0.5nH2O [Ln = Tb (4), Yb (5)], and [Ln(STP)(1,2-bdc)]
n
[Ln = Eu (6), Tb (7)] [NaSTP = sodium 2-(2,2′:6′,2″-terpyridin-4′-yl)benzenesulfonate, H2glu = glutaric acid, H2(1,3-bdc) = benzene-1,3-dicarboxylic acid, H2(1,2-bdc) = benzene-1,2-dicarboxylic acid], have been prepared under hydrothermal conditions and characterized by elemental analysis, IR and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. Compound (1) possesses a 2D layered structure based on 1D chains with STP− and glu2− anions acting as bridges. Compounds (2) and (3) are isomorphous and show a rare 3D tcj/hc net with a tetranuclear Ln3+ unit regarded as a seven-connected node and a glu2− anion serving as a three-connected node. Compounds (4) and (5) are isomorphous and exhibit six-connected pcu nets by denoting binuclear units to six-connected nodes. Compounds (6) and (7) display 3D 3,5T1 nets with (1,2-bdc)2− anions and dimetallic units serving as three- and five-connected nodes, respectively. The Eu compounds (1) and (6) demonstrate typically red emission, while the Tb compounds (4) and (7) exhibit characteristic green emission. The emission spectra of heteronuclear compounds [Eu
x
Tb1−x
(STP)(1,2-bdc)]
n
(0 ≤ x ≤ 1) as efficient luminescent tags were investigated. The intermetallic energy transfer of Tb to Eu was also evaluated.
The shortest chalcogen...halogen contacts in molecular crystals
Authors: Kaźmierczak Michał , Katrusiak Andrzej
Published: September 2019

The survey of the shortest contacts in structures deposited in the Cambridge Structural Database shows that chalcogen...halogen, halogen...halogen and chalcogen...chalcogen interactions can compete as cohesion forces in molecular crystals. The smallest parameter δ (defined as the interatomic distance minus the sum of relevant van der Waals radii) for Ch...X contacts between chalcogens (Ch: S, Se) and halogens (X: F, Cl, Br, I) is present only in 0.86% out of 30 766 deposited structures containing these atoms. Thus, in less than 1% of these structures can the Ch...X forces be considered as the main type of cohesion forces responsible for the molecular arrangement. Among the 263 structures with the shortest Ch...X contact, there are four crystals where no contacts shorter than the sums of van der Waals radii are present (so-called loose crystals). The smallest δ criterion has been used for distinguishing between the bonding (covalent bond) and non-bonding contacts and for validating the structural models of crystals.
Sense making in complex health situations
Authors: Naveh Sharon , Bronstein Jenny
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Using a sense making approach, the purpose of this paper is to examine the role that virtual health communities play as a source of informational and social support for pregnant diabetic women. The paper helps to understand how women suffering from a critical medical condition (i.e. diabetes during pregnancy and birth) manage a complex health situation.

Design/methodology/approach

The data sample consisted of 507 posts collected from a virtual health community for diabetic pregnant women. Data were analysed deductively looking for different expressions of normality and different types of health information about diabetes.

Findings

Content analysis revealed four themes that reflect the process that diabetic women go through from their attempts to conceive through pregnancy and birth. The findings show that for women dealing with a chronic illness such as diabetes, the breakdown of normal was the beginning of the pregnancy that prompted a new range of informational and emotional needs. The members of the community negotiated a socially constructed sense of normality and tried to empower other members with a new sense of normal by sharing information about their births. The findings also showed that members of the community disclosed personal health information to elicit medical information, advice and social support from other members.

Originality/value

The study highlighted the significance of sense-making processes in managing complex health situations and the value of virtual communities as sources of information and social support as to resolve discontinuities in the management of their illnesses.
A study on consumption of composite flour and bread in global perspective
Authors: Engindeniz Sait , Bolatova Zhansaya
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine composite flour and bread consumption, and to analyse economic efficiency by comparing Kazakhstan and Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

The material of the study was analysed through cross-section, χ2 and T-test, data collected from the online questionnaires of 269 families from Kazakhstan (131 families) and Turkey (138 families). The families were classified into four categories on the basis of their income level and into three categories on the basis of their education level and age level.

Findings

According to the study results, Kazakhstan and Turkey families consume different types of flours and breads; the consumption of composite flour per capita has been 2 kg/month, but the bread consumption per capita has been 2 pieces/day. A χ2 analysis has shown that country, family size, age, sex, income and occupation had a significant effect on flour and bread consumption. It was detected that the price of composite flour products and bread is related to the income of a family. According to the survey data, in Kazakhstan and Turkey, the average monthly income of the families have been calculated as $675, and the average income per person have been calculated as $170. Families purchase of composite flour products and bread has been $6. There is an increase amount of flour and bread consumption (p<0.010) in the low-income level, but in families with high-income level, there is a decrease amount of consumption. The price of flour products and bread is associated with the income of a family; these products have seen as reasonable and practical products. The income level and age level affect the consumption of flour and bread. Although the education level and occupation of consumers are varied, flour and bread have been preferred by every age group of consumers as a conventional food, whether it is a healthy food or not. New trend of consumption healthy products as a composite flour and bread influences on consumers purchase.

Originality/value

Flour and bread constitute the main and strategically important food product worldwide. The food security of a country depends on the state of the grain economy and the broad availability of the population. Grain production is the largest branch of agricultural production, and it has an important economic and social significance. The flour and bread were the main economic and political problem thousands of years ago.
Identification and causal assessment of supply chain flexibility
Authors: Singh Rohit Kr , Modgil Sachin , Acharya Padmanav
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to map the causal relations among various supply chain flexibility (SCF) dimensions having significant impact on the Indian personal hygiene industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The author(s) have gone through extensive literature review and extracted 22 SCF dimensions. After conducting field visits and expert interaction in the firm related to case industry, 11 major SCF dimensions that seem to have a significant amount of influence on supply chain performance of the firms were retained for further consideration. The author(s) have used decision making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) to establish initial causality and structural equation model (SEM) to investigate the contribution of different flexibility dimensions on overall SCF.

Findings

After DEMATEL analysis, three major SCF dimensions were considered for SEM modeling. The result shows that product flexibility and physical distribution flexibility have favorable influence on the SCF, while the demand management flexibility adversely impacts overall SCF.

Practical implications

The approach adopted in the study can help firms to determine and exercise the flexibility dimensions of a particular supply chain. The DEMATEL and SEM offer a facilitation to explain the causal relationship between the different dimensions to take long-term decisions and address the uncertainty in the demand and supply side.

Originality/value

This paper has made an attempt to evaluate the supply chain flexibilities, prioritize them and evaluate the relationship amongst these flexibilities and the degree to which they affect or are affected by one another in the Indian personal hygiene industry.
Emic vs etic frame of reference personality assessment in the prediction of work-related outcomes
Authors: Burtaverde Vlad , Iliescu Dragos
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the effect of both work-related and emic contextualization of personality measurement in the prediction of work-related outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 224 employees completed work-contextualized and non-contextualized Big Five model measures, as well as contextualized emic personality measures, together with a number of measures for work-related outcomes.

Findings

Results showed that, after controlling for demographic variables and non-contextualized etic factors, etic contextualized factors predicted occupational stress, work engagement, job satisfaction, work frustration, turnover intention, career satisfaction and organizational citizenship behavior. After controlling for demographic variables, non-contextualized etic factors and contextualized etic factors, emic contextualized personality factors predicted work engagement, job satisfaction, absenteeism, counterproductive workplace behaviors and organizational citizenship behaviors.

Research limitations/implications

The study has a number of limitations. First, the sample contained participants recruited from a low number of professional areas. Second, the sample consisted mostly of women, and relying on unbalanced samples may lead to construct irrelevant variance.

Practical implications

By using a combination of etic personality measures and contextualized emic personality measures, organizations can better predict a number of organizational outcomes related to extra-role performance, such as those considered in the present study.

Originality/value

This research showed that, in the case of personality assessment, using a double form of contextualization – frame of reference and culture – an increment in the prediction of organizational behaviors can be obtained.
Career adaptability and citizenship outcomes: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Liu Chang , Yu Kun
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Drawing upon the career construction theory (Savickas, 2002, 2013) and the conservation of resources theory (Hobfoll, 1989, 2001), the purpose of this paper is to explore whether, how and when career adaptability influences citizenship outcomes (i.e. citizenship behavior and citizenship fatigue).

Design/methodology/approach

Two-wave data were collected from 306 employees working in the operation department of an e-commerce company in Eastern China.

Findings

The results showed that both affective commitment and emotional exhaustion mediated the relationship between career adaptability and both citizenship behavior and citizenship fatigue, revealing a dual-process mechanism. Moreover, both the positive association between career adaptability and affective commitment and the negative association between career adaptability and emotional exhaustion were stronger among employees with a high (vs low) level of hindrance stressors.

Research limitations/implications

This study sheds light on the mechanisms and boundary conditions of the career adaptabilities–citizenship outcomes relationship.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to investigate the mechanism of the relationship between career adaptability and citizenship outcomes using multi-wave data.
Worst-case analysis of electronic circuits based on an analytic forward solver approach
Authors: Schenk Mario , Muetze Annette , Krischan Klaus , Magele Christian
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the worst-case behavior of a given electronic circuit by varying the values of the components in a meaningful way in order not to exceed pre-defined currents or voltages limits during a transient operation.

Design/methodology/approach

An analytic formulation is used to identify the time-dependent solution of voltages or currents using proper state equations in closed form. Circuits with linear elements can be described by a system of differential equations, while circuits composing nonlinear elements are described by piecewise-linear models. A sequential quadratic program (SQP) is used to find the worst-case scenario.

Findings

It is found that the worst-case scenario can be obtained with as few solutions to the forward problem as possible by applying an SQP method.

Originality/value

The SQP method in combination with the analytic forward solver approach shows that the worst-case limit converges in a few steps even if the worst-case limit is not on the boundary of the parameters.
Barriers to constructing experiential learning claims through reflective narratives
Authors: Ions Kevin John , Sutcliffe Norma
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the barriers that higher education (HE) work-based learners face when constructing experiential learning claims through reflective narratives.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 38 part-time, HE undergraduate work-based learners was conducted. A questionnaire was designed comprising Likert scale and open ended questions to capture students’ experiences of constructing experiential learning claims.

Findings

The study found that students experience several learning barriers including the diversity and complexity of reflective learning models, the solitary nature of reflective learning, problems articulating tacit knowledge in writing, emotional barriers to reflective learning, accurately recalling “historic” learning experiences and difficulties in developing the meta-competence of learning to learn.

Practical implications

Consideration should be given to assisting learners to develop the skills necessary to select and use reflective learning models that best fit particular experiential learning contexts. Learners should be encouraged to undertake group reflection in the classroom and in the workplace to enable them to write critical reflective narratives that have integrity. There should be less reliance on written reflective narratives to evidence tacit knowledge with consideration given to other methods such as practical demonstrations, videos presentations and interviews.

Originality/value

The study contributes to knowledge of the barriers that students face when constructing experiential learning claims through reflective narratives. It proposes an outline pedagogical scaffolding framework to assist learners to develop recognition of prior learning (RPL) claims to enable them to maximise opportunities for claiming credits through universities RPL processes.
Drawing up codes of ethics of higher education institutions: evidence from Italian universities
Authors: Mion Giorgio , Bonfanti Angelo
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Higher education institutions draw up codes of ethics, but in several countries there are no standards to follow. Most universities have autonomy and can freely draw up their codes of ethics in terms of structure and content. The purpose of this paper is to understand the main ethics issues that universities identify in their codes of ethics and what activities they implement to respond to these issues toward appropriate educational management of their institutions in ethical terms.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was performed through content analysis of codes of ethics of Italian public universities (64 codes), and may be considered a single in-depth case study. The main ethics issues and related activities were inductively codified in relation to the research purpose. The four constitutive aspects of business ethics (individual, managerial, organizational and societal ethics) proposed by Melé were chosen as the framework to investigate the main ethical needs and related activities implemented by universities to respond to these ethical issues.

Findings

This research has identified nine main ethical issues and related activities that contribute to guarantee the ethical compliance of universities under the four interrelated aspects different individual behaviors, managerial initiatives, organization strategies and responsibilities toward society. The analysis shows some relevant differences among Italian universities that have important implications in the ethical vision of academic communities and of managerial role in universities.

Practical implications

The research can help managers of higher education institutions to identify the main ethical issues to draw up codes of ethics and to formulate consistent development strategies that are able to improve the conditions of collaboration, work and productive participation in activities for all members of academic communities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is one of the first studies that connect codes of ethics and higher education. This research brings to light the main ethical issues and related activities that universities can consider to orient their strategic choices toward the public interest as well as educational management improvement.
A minimalist design for distance learning
Authors: Carraher Wolverton Colleen , Guidry Hollier Brandi N.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine whether the application of the minimalist approach is appropriate in distance learning (DL).

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of faculty who have participated in DL training courses at a university in the southeastern USA was conducted. In total, 72 faculty completed the survey, for a response rate of 34 percent.

Findings

Survey research findings demonstrate support for the suitableness of a minimalist approach to DL, as results indicate that faculty members do not need more training or more technology. In fact, results suggest there may be an excess of technological options, many of which are not being utilized.

Practical implications

In order to apply a minimalist approach to DL and in consideration of the survey results, the authors posit that fewer technologies should be used, the training required to teach an online course should be applied and simplified, and the technologies implemented in a DL course should be uncomplicated

Originality/value

Drawing from the literature on the minimalist approach to resourcefulness, a new lens with which to consider DL is presented. There have been few applications of minimalism within the IS literature. The minimalist approach presented herein is fitting given the budget reductions that have impacted higher education since the recession.
The impact of tax increment financing on property value
Authors: He Chaoran , Azizi SeyedSoroosh
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Tax increment financing (TIF) has been adopted widely by municipalities to promote local economic development. This study aims to examine the effect of TIF adoption on property values at the parcel level in Indiana from 2009 to 2016.

Design/methodology/approach

Concerns of TIF adoption endogeneity are addressed by a two-stage estimation process using urban population ratio and unemployment rates as instruments.

Findings

In addition to finding influential socioeconomic and demographic factors, the results suggest that parcels located within TIF districts were sold more than parcels outside of TIF districts by approximately $5,000. Such premium is mainly picked up by the positive effect on commercial and agricultural parcels, which outweighs the negative TIF impact on residential types.

Originality/value

Arm’s length transaction data on property value are used to eliminate the subjective assessment bias, potential calculation errors during the evaluation process and econometric issues caused by using the assessed value.
Determinants of SME growth: an empirical study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Rafiki Ahmad
Published: September 2019

Purpose

This study aims to examine the determinants of the growth of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The resource-based view theory is adopted in the analysis of the study.

Design/methodology/approach

The descriptive and multivariate regression analysis was used to analyze the data. A stratified sampling technique is adopted with a sample size of 119 managers from SMEs. There are variables delineated from theories (human capital, social capital, strategy and organization), which are associated with the firm’s growth that include; the size of the firm, firm age, manager’s education, training, experience, financing and network relationship.

Findings

The results found that the size of the firm, the experience of the manager, training, financing and the network relationship have a significant relationship with the firm’s growth. However, other variables such as the education and firm’s age do not have a significant relationship with the firm’s growth.

Originality/value

This study could be considered as an exposure to the SMEs in Saudi Arabia on the specific factors by the owner–managers who intend to develop their business.
Ethics and law in Kant’s views: the principle of complementarity
Authors: Pavlova Tetiana , Zarutska Elena , Pavlov Roman , Kolomoichenko Oleksandra
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to consider the complementarity of ethics and law with regard to the problem of their common existence in society through the identification of common and different characteristics in the philosophy of I. Kant.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on the observation that in modern society ethics and law remain the main social regulators and their co-existence requires the definition of their interaction and complementarity. Also, as this problem is closely related to issues of freedom and obligation, it is necessary to show their role in ethics and law.

Findings

The results show that the complementarity of ethics and law is due to the obligation that unites them, and the categorical imperative is the only postulate of ethics and the rights to execute, which allows a person to always remain worthy of his name. Ethics also has the meaning of legal capacity, and law means the recognition of people moral independence by public authorities. Thus, the law must protect a person not only from arbitrariness on the part of other people but also from the state power.

Originality/value

This paper uses a philosophical approach, the utility of which is that ethics and law are studied as elements of normative regulation system of the society in terms of the phenomenal and noumenal nature of a man. It is proposed to consider ethics and law not only as different social regulators, which have their own specifics but also as complementary elements of a single social being, which should exist together and not attempt to substitute one another.
Influence of service quality and corporate image on the satisfaction of patients with Brazil’s National Cancer Institute
Authors: Coutinho Eduardo Dias , Vieira Paulo Roberto da Costa , Mattoso Cecília Lima de Queirós , Troccoli Irene Raguenet , Renni Marcos Jose Pereira
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to better understand the influence of service quality and corporate image of Brazil’s National Cancer Institute (INCA) on the satisfaction of its outpatients.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is quantitative, with data collected from a self-administered structured questionnaire answered by a sample of 434 outpatients of Hospital do Câncer I, the largest and oldest hospital operated by the INCA. The data were treated with covariance-based structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results indicated that the corporate image of the INCA was the main factor having a positive influence on the patients’ satisfaction, followed by the quality of the services rendered by physicians and the quality of the hospital’s facilities.

Originality/value

The study shows that unlike indicated by the theory, quality does not have a direct impact on satisfaction with the nursing services, but rather an indirect impact via corporate image. Even though part of the explanation can be the fact that only outpatients were surveyed, who have less interaction with the nursing team than do inpatients, this result shows the strength of the hospital’s corporate image regarding patients’ satisfaction. Besides this, the study identified that hospitals with a strong corporate image transmit to patients the perception that they are being treated by technically qualified professionals, thus increasing the chances of cure and reduced suffering. This is fundamental for patients’ satisfaction, as most are unable to understand the technical attributes of the service. The study adds to the scarce Brazilian literature on the causal relation between the image of hospitals and their patients’ satisfaction.
Direct and indirect effects of work‒family enrichment: role of gender role ideology
Authors: Bansal Nidhi , Agarwal Upasna A.
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the antecedents (i.e. work‒family culture and decision latitude) and outcome (innovative workplace behavior (IWB)) of work‒family enrichment (WFE). The study also examines the moderated mediation hypothesis between WFE and outcome, considering work‒life balance (WLB) as a mediator and gender role ideology (GRI) as the moderator.

Design/methodology/approach

Data for the study were collected through a questionnaire survey from 426 Indian dual working parents, working in various sectors, through purposive sampling technique.

Findings

The study found that work‒family culture and decision latitude are positively related to WFE, which, in turn, results in increased IWB, with WLB acting as its mediator. Further, the study also found a moderating effect of GRI between WFE and WLB relationship; more specifically, the relationship between WFE and balance is stronger for egalitarian employees (high GRI).

Research limitations/implications

Using self-reported questionnaire data and a cross-sectional research design is the limitation of this study.

Originality/value

The study examines a relatively less focused phenomenon of work‒life interface, that is WFE in one of the underrepresented contexts like India; further, the study extends the range of antecedents and outcomes of WFE. Additionally, it contributes to understand the enrichment‒balance relationship, whereby it explains the role of GRI in developing a balanced perception.
The role of title sponsor’s philanthropy and team authenticity on fan identity and citizenship behaviors
Authors: Cho Inje , Kim Minseong , Kaplanidou Kiki
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationships between sport team authenticity, fan identity and citizenship behaviors, and how the link between sport team authenticity and fan identity is moderated by sponsor philanthropy.

Design/methodology/approach

A web survey was distributed to baseball fans in an online community in South Korea. A total of 383 valid answered questionnaires were collected and tested with confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modeling.

Findings

The findings suggested interrelationships between sport teams’ brand authenticity and fan identity and between fan identity and citizenship behavior. This work also confirms the moderating effect of a title sponsor’s philanthropic activities on the relationship between sport team authenticity and fan identity.

Practical implications

A sport team’s effort to maintain authenticity would intensify fan identity levels. Action plans that relate to team’s authenticity among fans are necessary. For example, the team could create a plan for the players to give back to the community by volunteering in community projects with the support of the sponsor. Building a team’s authentic culture with well-integrated philanthropy programs of a title sponsor would benefit the team in sustaining competitive advantages in a market.

Originality/value

The findings contribute to the literature by demonstrating the role of title sponsor’s philanthropic behavior on the sport industry. The relative importance of the team’s authenticity (congruency and fan orientation) for fan identity was increased when the perception of the sponsor’s philanthropy was high.
Static characteristics analysis of spherical hybrid sliding bearings
Authors: Wang Jian , Shen Jing Feng , Fan Ya Wen
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The spherical hybrid sliding bearings (SHSBs) can be used in ultra-precision and heavy-duty machine tools. However, there is little related research for these bearings. The purpose of this study is to investigate the static characteristics and effect factors affecting SHSBs by fluid lubrication.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the theories of fluid lubrication, the Reynolds equation of general Newtonian fluid is derived to obtain the steady-state lubrication equation. The system is solved by the finite difference method and the relaxation iterative method on the staggered grid to obtain the thickness and the pressure distribution of the oil film. The radial and axial load capacities of SHSBs are determined by the pressure field integration over the spherical surface.

Findings

The results show that the parameters such as oil supply pressure, bearing clearance, eccentricity ratio, rotating speed and orifices’ number affecting the static characteristics of bearings are significant and the cross-coupling effect exists.

Originality/value

The lubrication model of SHSB is established to analyze the pressure distribution with a variety of oil film thickness. The laws of oil supply pressure, bearing clearance, eccentricity ratio, rotating speed and orifices’ number on the load capacities are researched.
The institutionalisation of commercialism in the audit profession
Authors: Wen Wenjun
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Previous literature on the commercialisation of the audit profession has focused on the coercive force of macro-institutional structures. The purpose of this paper is to focus on the agency of individual auditors and examine their active construction of the commercial self in a Big Four audit firm in China.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper applied a qualitative research approach to data collection and analysis. A total of 17 interviews were conducted with senior auditors, managers, directors and partners to generate a rich narrative.

Findings

This study analyses prevalent discourses identified in the Chinese organisational setting and finds that, within the “clan-like” structure of the audit engagement team, three recurring discourses (i.e. the client relationship, adding value and career) were powerful scripts in constructing individual subjectivity wherein the “professionalism” ideal was re-enacted to rationalise the incorporation of more commercialistic elements.

Research limitations/implications

This study collected interviews representing various perspectives within a Big Four audit firm in China. Nonetheless, the scope of this study was limited to certain types of audit firms at certain times.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates that the scripts are not just a matter of self-presentation, but important sources of self-formation and self-definition. Rather than being imposed externally, “commercial selves” are actively constructed by individual auditors, leading to the institutionalisation of commercialism in the audit profession at the micro level.
Diversity within management levels and organizational performance: employees’ perspective
Authors: Kundu Subhash C. , Mor Archana , Kumar Sandeep , Bansal Jahanvi
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between employees’ perceptions of diversity within management levels (i.e. senior management, middle management and lower management levels) and perceived organizational performance. The study also examines differences in perceptions of diversity within different levels of management across nature and ownership forms of organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

Primary data were gathered from a sample of 400 employees from 162 organizations of diverse industries operating in India. Statistical techniques like analysis of variance and stepwise multiple regressions were used to analyze the data.

Findings

Employee perceptions of diversity at the senior, middle and lower management levels of organizations are weakly, most significantly and positively, and negatively related to perceived organizational performance. It has also been found that the perceptions of diversity within different levels of management differ across nature and ownership forms of the organization.

Research limitations/implications

The study relies on self-reported questionnaires as the method of data collection, which can lead to common-method bias. Hence, further studies can collect data by using multiple sources. In addition, future researchers can employ both subjective and objective measures to fetch results that are more valid.

Practical implications

To harvest the benefits of diversity, organization should foster positive perceptions among employees toward diversity.

Originality/value

The study gives new insight into why employees’ perceptions are significant in considering the possible outcomes of diversity.
Product performance implications of framing white space in advertising
Authors: Sharma Nazuk , Monahan Lisa
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of framing white space around a product image (e.g. silver polish) and its intended effect image (e.g. tarnish-free, shiny silverware) in an ad on the performance perceptions of the advertised product.

Design/methodology/approach

Four experimentally designed studies demonstrate a positive impact of framing the white space around the product and effect images. A total of 270 MTurk participants provided data for these studies through online surveys.

Findings

Findings across four different product categories reveal that when the white space surrounding the product and effect images in an ad is enclosed by a frame, consumers perceive product performance to be significantly higher than when there is no white space framing. This effect is mediated by enhanced perceived fit between the two images based on the white space framing.

Research limitations/implications

The current findings contribute to multiple marketing research streams including the use of white space and frames in visual promotions, as well as the literature on product performance, perceived fit, stylistic manipulations (such as the framing of white space in this case) and advertising communication.

Practical implications

The use of product and effect visuals in advertising to convey product performance is one of the most widely used tactics in the consumer packaged goods industry. Managers and creative directors can leverage the current findings to improve consumer product performance perceptions by using a simple, stylistic manipulation (which does not alter the core ad elements but only the production aspects) of framing the white space around the product and effect images in their product ads.

Originality/value

To date, there is only a small body of research examining the role of white space and visual frames on marketing-related outcomes. However, none of that looks at white space framing. The current work is the first to examine how localization of white space around the product and effect images improves consumer perceptions about the advertised product’s performance.
Health expenditures and inequality: a political economy perspective
Authors: Gamlath Sharmila , Lahiri Radhika
Published: September 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the manner in which the degree of substitutability between public and private health expenditures contributes towards the distribution of wealth and political economy outcomes in the long run.

Design/methodology/approach

An overlapping generations model with heterogeneous agents where a person’s probability of survival into old age is determined by a variable elasticity of substitution (VES) health production function with public and private expenditures as inputs is developed. Public expenditure on health is determined through a political economy process.

Findings

Analytical and numerical results reveal that higher substitutability between private and public expenditures at the aggregate level and a higher share of public spending in the production of health lead to higher long run wealth levels and lower inequality. In the political equilibrium, higher aggregate substitutability between public and private health expenditures is associated with more tax revenue allocated towards public health. For most parameter combinations, the political economy and welfare maximising proportions of tax revenue allocated towards public health care converge in the long run.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is a theoretical investigation of how substitutability between public and private health expenditures affect transitional and long run macroeconomic outcomes. These results are amenable to further empirical investigation.

Practical implications

The findings indicate that policies to improve institutional aspects that yield higher substitutability between public and private health expenditures and returns to public health spending could lead to better long run economic outcomes.

Social implications

The results provide a political economy explanation for the low investments in public health care in developing countries, where aggregate substitutability between public and private health expenditures is likely to be lower. Furthermore, comparing the political economy and welfare maximising paradigms broadens the scope of the framework developed herein to provide potential explanations for cross-country differences in health outcomes.

Originality/value

This paper adopts an innovative approach to exploring this issue of substitutability in health expenditures by introducing a VES health production function. In an environment where agents have heterogeneous wealth endowments, this specification enables a distinction to be made between substitutability of these expenditures at the aggregate and individual levels, which introduces a rich set of dynamics that feeds into long run outcomes and political economy results.
Untangling the nonlinear “knots” of UK’s housing prices
Authors: Alexiou Constantinos , Vogiazas Sofoklis
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Housing prices in the UK offer an inspiring, yet a complex and under-explored research area. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the critical factors that affect UK’s housing prices.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors utilize the recently developed nonlinear ARDL approach of Shinet al.(2014) over the period 1969–2016.

Findings

The authors find that both the long-run and short-run impact of the price-to-rent (PTR) ratio and credit-to-GDP ratio on house prices (HP) is asymmetric whilst ambiguous results are established for mortgage rates, industrial production and equities. Apart from the novel framework of analysis, this study also establishes a positive association between HP and the PTR ratio which suggests a speculative behaviour and could imply the formation of a housing bubble.

Originality/value

It is the first study for the UK housing market that explores the underlying fundamental relationships by looking at nonlinearities hence, allowing HP to be tied by asymmetric relationships in the long as well as in the short run. Modelling the inherent nonlinearities enhances significantly the understanding of UK housing market which can prove useful for policymaking and forecasting purposes.
Economic freedom and trade flows
Authors: Seyoum Belay , Ramirez Juan
Published: September 2019

Purpose

Economic freedom is the fundamental right of every person in a free society to control his/her own labor and property without government intervention beyond what is necessary to protect and maintain freedom itself. The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between economic freedom, inward foreign direct investment (FDI) and trade flows.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test a moderated mediation model of the effects of economic freedom on trade flows with the objective of exploring the mediation effects of FDI and the moderating effects of government stability.

Findings

Based on a sample of 155 countries from different geographical areas, the study shows that economic freedom is associated with inward FDI, which, in turn, predicted trade flows. Furthermore, government stability moderated the relationship between economic freedom and FDI.

Originality/value

This study goes beyond the traditional focus on the macro determinants of trade flows and explores the link between economic freedom and trade flows, and the roles of inward FDI and political stability in the context of this relationship. It also provides a novel methodological approach to examine this relationship.