bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of mechanical loading on cortical defect repair using a novel mechanobiological model of bone healing
Authors: Liu Chao , Carrera Robert , Flamini Vittoria , Kenny Lena , Cabahug-Zuckerman Pamela , Benson George , Hunter Daniel , Liu Bo , Singh Gurpreet , Leucht Philipp , Mann Kenneth A. , Helms Jill A. , Castillo Alesha B.
Published: September 2017

Mechanical loading is an important aspect of post-surgical care. The timing of load application relative to the injury event is thought to differentially regulate repair depending on the stage of healing. Here, we show using a novel mechanobiological model of cortical defect repair that daily loading (5 N peak load, 2 Hz, 60 cycles, 4 consecutive days) during hematoma consolidation and inflammation disrupts the injury site and activates cartilage formation on the periosteal surface adjacent to the defect. We also show that daily loading during the matrix deposition phase enhances both bone and cartilage formation at the defect site, while loading during the remodeling phase results in an enlarged woven bone regenerate. All loading regimens resulted in abundant cellular proliferation within the regenerate and at the periosteal surface and fibrous tissue formation directly above the defect. Stress was concentrated at the edges of the defect during exogenous loading, and finite element (FE)-modeled longitudinal strain (εzz) values along the anterior and posterior borders of the defect (~2200 με) were an order of magnitude larger than strain values on the proximal and distal borders (~50-100 με). These findings demonstrate that all phases of cortical defect healing are sensitive to physical stimulation. In addition, the proposed novel mechanobiological model offers several advantages including its technical simplicity and its well-characterized and spatially confined repair program, making effects of physical and biological interventions more easily assessed.
Recentrifuge: robust comparative analysis and contamination removal for metagenomics
Authors: Martí Jose Manuel
Published: September 2017

Metagenomic sequencing is becoming widespread in biomedical and environmental research, and the pace is increasing even more thanks to nanopore sequencing. With a rising number of samples and data per sample, the challenge of efficiently comparing results within a specimen and between specimens arises. Reagents, laboratory, and host related contaminants complicate such analysis. Contamination is particularly critical in low microbial biomass body sites and environments, where it can comprise most of a sample if not all. Recentrifuge implements a robust method for the removal of negative-control and crossover taxa from the rest of samples. With Recentrifuge, researchers can analyze results from taxonomic classifiers using interactive charts with emphasis on the confidence level of the classifications. In addition to contamination-subtracted samples, Recentrifuge provides shared and exclusive taxa per sample, thus enabling robust contamination removal and comparative analysis in clinical and environmental metagenomics.

Author summary

Whether in a clinical or environmental sample, metagenomics can reveal what microorganisms exist and what they do. It is indeed a powerful tool for the study of microbial communities which requires equally powerful methods of analysis. Current challenges in the analysis of metagenomic data include the comparative study of samples, the degree of uncertainty in the results, and the removal of contamination. The scarcer the microbes are in an environment, the more essential it is to have solutions to these issues. Examples of sites with few microbes are not only habitats with low levels of nutrients, but also many body tissues and fluids. Recentrifuge’s novel approach combines statistical, mathematical and computational methods to tackle those challenges with efficiency and robustness: it seamlessly removes diverse contamination, provides a confidence level for every result, and unveils the generalities and specificities in the metagenomic samples.
Functional Modeling of Plant Growth Dynamics
Authors: Xu Yuhang , Qiu Yumou , Schnable James C.
Published: September 2017

Recent advances in automated plant phenotyping have enabled the collection time series measurements from the same plants of a wide range of traits over different developmental time scales. The availability of time series phenotypic datasets has increased interest in statistical approaches for comparing patterns of change between different plant genotypes and different treatment conditions. Two widely used methods of modeling growth over time are point-wise analysis of variance (ANOVA) and parametric sigmoidal curve fitting. Point-wise ANOVA yields discontinuous growth curves, which do not reflect the true dynamics of growth patterns in plants. In contrast, fitting a parametric model to a time series of observations does capture the trend of growth, however these models require assumptions regarding the true pattern of plant growth. Depending on the species, treatment regime, and subset of the plant lifecycle sampled this assumptions will not always hold true. Here we introduce a different approach – functional ANOVA – which yields continuous growth curves without requiring assumptions regarding patterns of plant growth. We compare and validate this approach using data from an experiment measuring growth of two maize (Zea maysssp.mays) genotypes under two water availability treatments over a 21-day period. Functional ANOVA enables a nonparametric estimation of the dynamics of changes in plant traits over time without assumptions regarding curve shape. In addition to estimating smooth curves of trait values over time, functional ANOVA also estimates the the derivatives of these curves – e.g. growth rates – simultaneously. Using two different subsampling strategies, we demonstrate that this functional ANOVA method enables the comparison of growth curves between plants phenotyped on non-overlapping days with little reduction in estimation accuracy. This means functional ANOVA based approaches can allow larger numbers of samples and biological replicates to be scored in a single experiment given fixed amounts of phenotyping infrastructure and personnel.
Progressive change in expression of killer-like receptorsr and GPR56 expression defines the cytokine production potential of human CD4+ T memory cells
Authors: Truong Kim-Long , Schlickeiser Stephan , Vogt Katrin , Boës David , Schumann Julia , Appelt Christine , Streitz Mathias , Grütz Gerald , Meisel Christian , Tomiuk Stefan , Polansky Julia K. , Pascher Andreas , Sauer Igor , Gerlach Undine , Sawitzki Birgit
Published: September 2017

Memory T cells mount an accelerated response upon re-challenge but are heterogeneous in phenotype and function. Traditionally memory T cells were classified into central memory, effector memory and terminally differentiated effector memory (TEMRA) cells based on expression of CCR7 and CD45RA. Functional heterogeneity even within these subsets demonstrated the need for more suitable markers. We applied bulk and single gene expression profiling of human CD4+ memory T cells and identified surface markers, KLRB1, KLRG1, GPR56 and KLRF1, allowing classification into “low”, “high” or “exhausted” cytokine producers. In contrast to common understanding KLRG1 expression was not associated with exhaustion and highest production of multiple cytokines was observed in KLRB1+KLRG1+GPR56+ T cells. Only additional KLRF1 expression was associated with a decline in cytokine production. The superiority of KLRF1 to define exhausted cytokine producers compared to classical TEMRA identification was best exemplified for intrahepatic T cells in patients with inflammatory liver diseases.
Stability of subsystem solutions in agent-based models
Authors: Perc Matjaž
Published: September 2017

The fact that relatively simple entities, such as particles or neurons, or even ants or bees or humans, give rise to fascinatingly complex behavior when interacting in large numbers is the hallmark of complex systems science. Agent-based models are frequently employed for modeling and obtaining a predictive understanding of complex systems. Since the sheer number of equations that describe the behavior of an entire agent-based model often makes it impossible to solve such models exactly, Monte Carlo simulation methods must be used for the analysis. However, unlike pairwise interactions among particles that typically govern solid-state physics systems, interactions among agents that describe systems in biology, sociology or the humanities often involve group interactions, and they also involve a larger number of possible states even for the most simplified description of reality. This begets the question: When can we be certain that an observed simulation outcome of an agent-based model is actually stable and valid in the large system-size limit? The latter is key for the correct determination of phase transitions between different stable solutions, and for the understanding of the underlying microscopic processes that led to these phase transitions. We show that a satisfactory answer can only be obtained by means of a complete stability analysis of subsystem solutions. A subsystem solution can be formed by any subset of all possible agent states. The winner between two subsystem solutions can be determined by the average moving direction of the invasion front that separates them, yet it is crucial that the competing subsystem solutions are characterized by a proper composition and spatiotemporal structure before the competition starts. We use the spatial public goods game with diverse tolerance as an example, but the approach has relevance for a wide variety of agent-based models.
Reduced 3,4′-bipyrazoles from a simple pyrazole precursor: synthetic sequence, molecular structures and supramolecular assembly
Authors: Cuartas Viviana , Insuasty Braulio , Cobo Justo , Glidewell Christopher
Published: September 2017

The reaction of 5-chloro-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde and N-benzylmethylamine under microwave irradiation gives 5-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazole-4-carbaldehyde, C19H19N3O, (I). Subsequent reactions under basic conditions, between (I) and a range of acetophenones, yield the corresponding chalcones. These undergo cyclocondensation reactions with hydrazine to produce reduced bipyrazoles which can be N-formylated with formic acid or N-acetylated with acetic anhydride. The structures of (I) and of representative examples from this reaction sequence are reported, namely the chalcone (E)-3-{5-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-3-methyl-1-phenyl-1H-pyrazol-4-yl}-1-(4-bromophenyl)prop-2-en-1-one, C27H24BrN3O, (II), the N-formyl derivative (3RS)-5′-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-3′-methyl-1′,5-diphenyl-3,4-dihydro-1′H,2H-[3,4′-bipyrazole]-2-carbaldehyde, C28H27N5O, (III), and the N-acetyl derivative (3RS)-2-acetyl-5′-[benzyl(methyl)amino]-5-(4-methoxyphenyl)-3′-methyl-1′-phenyl-3,4-dihydro-1′H,2H-[3,4′-bipyrazole], which crystallizes as the ethanol 0.945-solvate, C30H31N5O2·0.945C2H6O, (IV). There is significant delocalization of charge from the benzyl(methyl)amino substituent onto the carbonyl group in (I), but not in (II). In each of (III) and (IV), the reduced pyrazole ring is modestly puckered into an envelope conformation. The molecules of (I) are linked by a combination of C—H...N and C—H...π(arene) hydrogen bonds to form a simple chain of rings; those of (III) are linked by a combination of C—H...O and C—H...N hydrogen bonds to form sheets of R
2
2(8) and R
6
6(42) rings, and those of (IV) are linked by a combination of O—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds to form a ribbon of edge-fused R
2
4(16) and R
4
4(24) rings.
Wine, family businesses and web: marketing strategies to compete effectively
Authors: Iaia Lea , Scorrano Paola , Fait Monica , Cavallo Federica
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deepen the web marketing strategies used by wine family businesses (FBs) with the aim to identify the role assigned to websites, the online models and the competitive strategies implemented through them.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to examine the content and structure of the information found on the website of selected FBs, an ad hoc analysis model was designed and validated with the support of marketing and industry experts through an inspecting focus group (Mich, 2007).

Findings

The subsequent observation of the websites of the businesses studied showed that family-run Italian wineries use their websites mainly to present information about the business and as a relational tool through edutainment activities; FBs yet neglect the potential of e-commerce.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the importance and the attention that FBs, among others, should dedicate to the role of web communications within their communications strategy. Although this path has allowed the traits essential to launch effective online communications for FBs, the small number of businesses surveyed (ten) does not permit a theoretical generalisation of the results. Thus, we expect to integrate the information obtained from this preliminary study with in-depth interviews with the digital strategists for the companies examined or by increasing the number of FBs studied.

Originality/value

The paper provides an evaluation model to effectively organise the websites’ contents; wine businesses should consider and customise these essential elements with the brand’s specific details.
International law applicable to urban conflict and disaster
Authors: McDermott Ronan , Luelf Charlotte , Hofmann Laura , Gibbons Pat
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive overview of the international legal framework governing urban crises arising from conflict, “natural” and technological disasters.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper deploys legal analysis to the most relevant bodies of international law pertaining to urban crises and systematically outlines the key legal issues arising.

Findings

International humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law (IHRL) provide important protections to vulnerable persons in both human-made and “natural” disaster settings. While the two bodies of law do not draw explicit distinctions between urban and rural settings, their various provisions, and indeed their silence on, crucial issues that would enhance legal protection in urban settings merit greater attention.

Research limitations/implications

The paper provides an overview of the sources of international law of most relevance to urban crises. Further research is required into how the urban environment influences their application concretely in urban settings.

Practical implications

In an era when international law is being challenged from many sources and attention is turning to the increasing potential for urban violence and vulnerability, this paper serves to sensitise the disaster management and humanitarian community to the relevance of international legal frameworks to its activities in urban settings.

Originality/value

This paper considers the most salient international legal issues arising during crises and compares and contrasts how the different bodies of international law (IHL and IHRL) address each of the kinds of crises (conflict, “natural” or technological disaster), respectively.
Authenticity at work: a moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Kuntz Joana R.C. , Abbott Mary
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to test a moderated mediation model linking person-environment fit with workplace outcomes (engagement, meaning at work and performance) through authenticity (authentic living and self-alienation). Self-deception was included as a moderator of these relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 163 employees in a large department using an online survey. The hypotheses were tested using the PROCESS Macro for SPSS, which conducts bootstrapped moderated mediation analyses.

Findings

Results showed that person-environment fit facets were positively related to engagement, meaning and performance through authentic living and negatively related through self-alienation. These relationships were significant at low to moderate levels of self-deception.

Research/limitations implications

Despite its small sample size, this study used a time-lagged design to mitigate the limitations associated with cross-sectional studies. Further, it expanded the research on authenticity in the workplace by illustrating the interplay of authenticity with fit, self-deception and workplace outcomes.

Practical implications

Organisations stand to gain from encouraging authenticity at work, and this can be achieved by ensuring person-environment fit. While self-deception can act as a protective factor against low perceptions of person-environment fit, organisations should strive to create a culture that values diversity and self-expression.

Originality/value

This study is among the first to explore authenticity at work and the first to empirically examine the authenticity and person-environment fit relationship in relation to outcomes, considering individual propensity for motivated bias.
The social capital concept in management and organizational literature
Authors: Manning Paul
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Social capital (SC) is a contemporary management and organizational concept that has yet to reach definitional agreement. In response, and to fully grasp the meaning of SC in its management and organizational context, this paper aims to review its intellectual antecedents and then synthesize the causal factors for the concept’s recent prominence. The paper will further explicate the meaning of the concept by proposing two categories of benefits for classifying the economic returns of SC. First in terms of “bonding capital’s” role in facilitating knowledge management and, second, in terms of “bridging capital’s” role in facilitating reputation management.

Design/methodology/approach

A narrative literature review of the SC concept in the management and organizational context.

Findings

SC is a conservative concept that is largely uncritical of contemporary management and organizational theory, other than in the sense of trying to render it more rational and efficient. Thus, the SC discourse, does not, “[…] question the economic theory that dominates the World Bank or, indeed, much contemporary economics” (Bebbingtonet al., 2004, 36). Furthermore, SC is a “wonderfully elastic term” (Lappe and Du Bois, 1997, p. 119), which falls within the parameters of Burkean conservatism, with a stress on allegiance to the status quo and social harmony. SC as it is relevant for management, and organisational analysis is therefore supportive of the socio-economic status-quo and belongs to the “sociology of regulation”, concerned with emphasizing unity and cohesiveness (Burrel and Morgan, 1979, pp. 10-20).

Research limitations/implications

A number of recommendations for further SC research, within the management and organizational context are recommended.

Originality/value

This paper presents a comprehensive review of the meaning and application of SC in the context of management and organizational analysis.
Comparing pedagogies for plastic waste management at university level
Authors: Yeung Siu-Kit , So Wing-Mui Winnie , Cheng Nga-Yee Irene , Cheung Tsz-Yan , Chow Cheuk-Fai
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to compare the learning outcomes of gaming simulation and guided inquiry in sustainability education on plastic waste management. The current study targets the identification of success factors in these teaching approaches.

Design/methodology/approach

This study used a quasi-experimental design with undergraduate participants who were randomly assigned to an eight-hour sustainability education class using either gaming simulation or guided inquiry. Pre- and post-tests on students’ knowledge, attitudes and intended behavior were conducted, followed by individual interviews to provide more detailed reflections on the teaching approach to which they were assigned.

Findings

In terms of knowledge acquisition and behavioral changes, the quantitative results suggested that the pre-/post-test in-group differences were significant in both groups. More importantly, a significant positive attitudinal change was observed in the gaming simulation group only. In the interviews, participants attributed effective knowledge acquisition to active learning element in class, while the characterization of cognitive dissonance triggered in the gaming simulation induced subsequent affective changes.

Practical implications

Activities in this program can be applied or modified to accommodate differences in other similar programs. The findings can also provide indicators to designs of similar programs in the future.

Originality/value

This paper explores plausible factors (ideology and implementation) that contribute to successful sustainability education programs. Through comparison between gaming simulation and guided inquiry, elements for effective education for sustainable development learning in the pedagogical designs are discussed.
Mapping sustainability efforts at the Claremont colleges
Authors: Srebotnjak Tanja , Norgaard Lee Michelle
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to map and analyze sustainability activities and relationships at the seven Claremont Colleges and graduate institutions using social network analysis (SNA) to inform sustainability planning and programming.

Design/methodology/approach

Online surveys and interviews were conducted among faculty, staff and students, and a network map was created and analyzed using network statistics to identify network characteristics.

Findings

The mapped sustainability network has 291 one- and bi-directional connections but with substantial differences among institutions. Pomona and Pitzer colleges have the highest number of sustainability-related courses because of their popular Environmental Analysis programs. The two graduate schools and Scripps College are comparatively isolated. Scripps’ network is small but highly interconnected and resilient. Pomona’s network is extensive but concentrated on a single node. Several other key actors were identified based on the number of nodes extending from or connecting to them. Several new sustainability initiatives were recently launched in response to the study.

Practical implications

SNA and mapping for campus sustainability can highlight network gaps and network vulnerabilities. To increase completeness, a representative and sufficiently large data sample is needed, requiring multiple, coordinated forms of contact. Interviews yield more detailed and comprehensive information than online surveys but are more time-consuming. Thus, the combination of electronic surveys and in-person interviews can be a successful strategy for maximizing information collection.

Originality/value

The case study was the first of its kind conducted at the Claremont Colleges and one of the first in higher education. It informs sustainability planning, coordination and integration efforts.
Exploring citizens’ judgments about the legitimacy of public policies on refugees
Authors: Canel Maria-José , Oliveira Evandro Samuel , Luoma-aho Vilma
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is threefold: to introduce a theoretical frame regarding the meaning of legitimacy as an intangible asset of the public sector; to test a way of operationalizing legitimacy typologies that allows exploring and comparing how citizens from two countries evaluate the legitimacy of public policies; and to suggest implications for governments’ legitimacy-building strategies in shared international crisis, such as the refugees coming from the Syrian region.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on Suchman’s typology, it was defined and categorized different types of legitimacy into concrete measurable, communication related statements concerning consequential, procedural, structural and personal. For the illustrative example, four focus groups were conducted in two different European societies as a mean to have two poles of comparison.

Findings

The paper reports current understanding of legitimacy by citizens, discusses how different legitimacy types might demand different communication and public diplomacy approaches. The basis for hypothesis for further research on how governments should build legitimacy during emerging societal issues such as immigration policies is set.

Practical implications

It proposes a typology and its operationalization, discusses how communication might shape legitimacy and profiles the challenge governments have in building it. Within a public diplomacy context, it brings clues for new strategies to the challenge of explaining policies on international crisis combining the tension of domestic with foreign publics.

Originality/value

There is little research so far in search for clues for communication strategies for the legitimacy of policies on the 2015 European refugee’s crisis. This contributes to the emerging area of intangible assets in the public sector and tests a focus-group research strategy with both hermeneutical and pragmatic aims. Combine public diplomacy theory with public sector intangible assets theory to respond to the tension of internal and external public demands.
Risk management and contingency sum of construction projects
Authors: Lam Terence Y.M. , Siwingwa Njavwa
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Most organisations do not have established guidelines for the estimation and management of contingency funds. The purpose of this paper is to identify the risk factors at the construction phase causing project cost overruns, and a reliable method for the estimation of contingency sum is established.

Design/methodology/approach

Combined qualitative–quantitative exploratory methods were used. Qualitative interviews were conducted with five expert practitioners working in a Public Works Department in Zambia to determine how contingency sum is estimated and to explore what risk factors should be considered. Quantitative regression used cost and risk data collected from 30 recently completed building and refurbishment projects.

Findings

The qualitative study indicated that the project budget overruns constitute a major issue. This finding is in line with the paired-samples t-test results which show that the difference between the total variations and the initial contingency sum tends to be significant. The regression analysis proved that the contingency sum was positively correlated to the estimated contract sum. The qualitative interview results and Pearson correlation analysis also showed that contingency sum and project complexity tend to have a significant correlation. The research also demonstrates that the type of works is not a direct significant factor.

Research limitations/implications

Because the projects used for the study were relatively short, duration of the project and economic factor of tax rate, exchange rate and inflation rate were not examined in the multiple regression analysis. Further studies should be conducted on longer projects to test out whether these risk factors are significant in influencing the project contingency.

Practical implications

The results demonstrate that the multiple regression method can be applied as a reliable tool to predict contingency sums. Accurate contingency sums and project budget estimates benefit construction clients and their project managers. Individual project conditions should be carefully examined when assessing the contingency.

Originality/value

This research establishes a reliable regression method for the assessment of the contingency for the pre-tender estimate which has significant impact on the project feasibility and cost control, using related risk factors involved in construction contingency and client’s contingency.
A tale of four practices
Authors: Miller-Day Michelle , Applequist Janelle , Zabokrtsky Keri , Dalton Alexandra , Kellom Katherine , Gabbay Robert , Cronholm Peter F.
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) has become a dominant model of primary care re-design. This transformation presents a challenge to many care delivery organizations. The purpose of this paper is to describe attributes shaping successful and unsuccessful practice transformation within four medical practice groups.

Design/methodology/approach

As part of a larger study of 25 practices transitioning into a PCMH, the current study focused on diabetes care and identified high- and low-improvement medical practices in terms of quantitative patient measures of glycosylated hemoglobin and qualitative assessments of practice performance. A subset of the top two high-improvement and bottom two low-improvement practices were identified as comparison groups. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with diverse personnel at these practices to investigate their experiences with practice transformation and data were analyzed using analytic induction.

Findings

Results show a variety of key attributes facilitating more successful PCMH transformation, such as empanelment, shared goals and regular meetings, and a clear understanding of PCMH transformation purposes, goals, and benefits, providing care/case management services, and facilitating patient reminders. Several barriers also exist to successful transformation, such as low levels of resources to handle financial expense, lack of understanding PCMH transformation purposes, goals, and benefits, inadequate training and management of technology, and low team cohesion.

Originality/value

Few studies qualitatively compare and contrast high and low performing practices to illuminate the experience of practice transformation. These findings highlight the experience of organizational members and their challenges in practice transformation while providing quality diabetes care.
Halal holidays: exploring expectations of Muslim-friendly holidays
Authors: Wingett Fiona , Turnbull Sarah
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to explore the expectations of Muslim tourists when taking a halal holiday. Understanding consumer expectations is an important factor in any service context since expectations determine whether the consumer is satisfied or dissatisfied with the service outcome.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory approach was adopted and in-depth interviews with Muslim tourists and halal holiday providers were undertaken.

Findings

The findings identified services and facilities Muslim consumers expect from a halal holiday and those they did not expect to see. Factors such as halal food, women-only facilities and dress codes were identified as services and facilities that are expected, whereas no alcohol was seen to be an important factor for Muslim tourists.

Research limitations/implications

This exploratory study used a small sample and hence the findings should not be seen to be generalisable. However, the study provides a number of valuable insights into the expectations of Muslim leisure tourists. Halal travel organisations and tourism boards will benefit from a better understanding of factors that influence the satisfaction/dissatisfaction of Muslim tourists.

Originality/value

The study makes three main contributions to our understanding of halal holidays. First, the study identifies expectations that are likely to influence satisfaction, such as halal food and women-only facilities. Second, the study highlights those expectations which are likely to cause dissatisfaction for halal holidaymakers, such as alcohol and dress codes. Third, the study highlights the difference in expectations which exist between halal holidaymakers and how the interpretation and practice of Islam is highly varied.
Offensive advertising: a religion based Indian study
Authors: Tariq Mohd , Khan Mohd Afaq
Published: September 2017

Purpose

Among various factors which help in shaping the attitude of consumers, religion and religiosity too play a vital role. This paper aims to inquire into the impact of religion and religiosity on the attitudes of Hindu and Muslim consumers of Northern India toward offensive advertising and the reasons which make the advertising offensive.

Design/methodology/approach

Responses regarding advertising of 11 controversial products and 7 reasons which make the advertising offensive were taken by distributing a questionnaire to a convenience sample of 250 university students of Northern India (comprising respondents from two major religions of India). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and t-test.

Findings

The findings confirmed that there is a significant difference in the attitude of consumers on the basis of religion and religiosity.

Research limitations/implications

As the study is conducted only in Northern India, findings generated through this may lack generalizability. Other limitations include small sample size and use of convenience sampling. Different sects under religion must be particularly studied.

Practical implications

Advertisers should consider religious sentiments of consumers into account to make advertisements more appealing to consumers.

Originality/value

The studies on religion and its relation with attitude toward advertising are even less frequent in Indian context. Hence, this study is a pioneering work which will open new doors for the marketers in India. It will help the marketers in properly targeting consumers based on their religious beliefs.
Moderating effect of support service quality on marketing IS sophistication and bank’s core competencies
Authors: Ali Mohamed Salih Yousif
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to examine the moderating effects of support service quality (SSQ) on marketing information services sophistication (MISS) and bank’s core competencies within banking sector.

Design/methodology/approach

To collect the data, the questionnaire approach and random sampling are chosen. The survey sample consisted of 180 banking branches information technology managers in Sudan’s banking industry.

Findings

The study evidenced that the effect of SSQ on the relationship between MISS and bank’s core competencies is a quasi-moderator and also indicate that the two components of MISS are positively and significantly associated with bank’s core competencies.

Research limitations/implications

The study is conducted in Sudan banking industry and generalization could be limited. Future studies will replicate the study in different industries or countries.

Practical implications

For the managers’ practice, the findings showed that MISS can deliver superior performance and efficiency (such as proper work flow, employee satisfaction, reducing complaints or enquiries and competitive capabilities) if it reinforced or strengthened by SSQ.

Originality/value

Empirical results support the positive link between MISS, SSQ and top core competencies. The benefit of that contribution is performance excellence competencies at the market.
A RIDIT approach to evaluate factors influencing tourist destination brand selection behaviour pertaining to Indian tourism sector
Authors: Bhattacharya Subhajit , Kumar Rohit Vishal
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the components or factors influencing tourists’ destination brand selection behaviour in Indian context with evidence-based management modelling by using the Relative to an Identified Distribution (RIDIT) approach. This evidence-based tourism marketing research has contributed to enhance understanding the tourists’ motivation to support decision in tourism marketing domain. The present study has focused on identifying the most relevant factors in the order of priority that influence destination brand-choice behaviour pertaining to Indian tourism sector. The current research has also tried to arrange the different items relating to tourists preferences for better understanding the insight of potential tourists relating to Indian-tourist destinations.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive, survey research design was chosen to investigate and organize the different components or items in degrees of priority to explain the tourists’ destination brand selection behaviour. In total, 387 empirical tourist samples were collected across India covering both domestic and international tourist segments. An evidence-based management modelling with RIDIT analysis is done to examine the factors, which have influencing role on tourist-destination brand choice behaviour related to Indian tourism market.

Findings

The outcome of this research paper should enable the tourism marketers, tourism service providers, tourism brand managers and consultants to create better linkages between the prospective tourists’ preferences and the marketing mix of the destination brands by using evidence based management modelling.

Originality/value

The present research is an original and innovative thought process, trying to evaluate the components or factors influencing tourists’ destination brand selection behaviour pertaining to Indian tourism sector by using the RIDIT approach. Research undertaken so far in tourism marketing area has investigated the different components related to tourism behaviour and destination-brand selection intention of the potential tourists in an unintended and less organized manner. This study can be seen as the first empirical evidence in the domain of tourism marketing where evidence based management modelling with RIDIT approach is done.
Causal modelling of HR flexibility and firm performance in Indian IT industries
Authors: Sekhar Chandra , Patwardhan Manoj , Vyas Vishal
Published: September 2017

Purpose

This paper aims to measure the human resource (HR) flexibility and firm performances confirmatory model and to map the causal relation structures in the HR flexibility and firm performance dimensions using the DEMATEL method.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from leading national and multinational information technology (IT) firms operating in the southern part of India. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to measure the confirmatory model, and the DEMATEL method was used to map the causal relation among the dimensions of HR flexibility and firm performance.

Findings

HR flexibility could exist across IT firms. Organisations are required to anticipate and respond promptly to changing conditions in such a way that both technical and stakeholders’ complexity are effectively managed.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted at leading national and multinational IT firms operating in the southern part of India.

Practical implications

HR flexibility allows employees with a wide variety of work styles and lifestyles to be successful contributors, to advance and to lead in the parent firm. It brings out diversity and individuality, shared responsibility, wholeness, etc., among the employees. It applies to work schedules and career paths across the organisation. IT firms are advised to adopt an external focus, an organic and employee-oriented approach and long-term orientation.

Originality/value

Confirming the measurement model and mapping the causal relationship among the dimensions of HR flexibility and firm performance would be the novel contributions to the research in the areas of HR flexibility and firm performance with regard to IT firms. This paper contributes to the literature by theoretically and empirically investigating such relationships, thereby addressing the research gaps reviewed from literature.
Inventory model in a four-echelon integrated supply chain: modeling and optimization
Authors: Gharaei Abolfazl , Pasandideh Seyed Hamid Reza , Arshadi Khamseh Alireza
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The main purpose is to minimize the total inventory cost of chain, whereas the stochastic constraints are satisfied. In other words, the goal is to find optimum agreed stockpiles and period length for products to minimize the total inventory cost of the chain while the stochastic constraints are fulfilled.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper designs and optimizes an integrated inventory model in a four-echelon supply chain that contains a supplier, a producer, a wholesaler and multiple retailers. All four levels agree with each other to make an integrated inventory system. Products in this model have a multi-stage production process, and the model is bounded by multiple stochastic constraints. The problem model is nonlinear and large. So, the interior point method as an effective algorithm is used for solving the recent convex nonlinear model. Two numerical examples are solved to demonstrate the application of this methodology and to evaluate the performance of the proposed approach.

Findings

The findings showed the model is applicable for real-world supply chain problems in the cases that echelons are going to do executive external integration. Also, the Interior Point algorithm has a satisfactory performance and a high efficiency in terms of optimum solution for solving nonlinear and large models.

Originality/value

The authors designed and optimized the inventory cost in a four-level integrated supply chain in stochastic conditions. The new decision variables, number of chain levels, multi-products, stochastic constraints and multi-stage products in four-level integrated supply chain are other novelties of this paper. The authors provided an efficient algorithm for solving a large-scale and nonlinear model in this research, too.
Work-based learning
Authors: Baker Shayne D. , Peach Neil , Cathcart Malcolm
Published: September 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the extent to which work-based learning could potentially improve education and training pathways in Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews education and training provision in Australia through a contextualisation of the Australian Qualification Framework (AQF) with work-based learning pedagogy to determine the extent to which it might contribute to improved outcomes for learners.

Findings

People seeking to advance their career aspirations can consider the application of work-based learning to support lifelong learning pathways through the AQF.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need for further longitudinal studies on the outcomes of work-based learning for organisations, individual learners and education and training institutions.

Practical implications

The application of effective WBL approaches has the potential to create a much larger flow of learners from experiential and vocational backgrounds into undergraduate programmes and onto higher education programmes using a consistent and effective pedagogy.

Social implications

By actively considering the opportunities for learning at work and through work learners, educators and business managers may recognise that there would be more demand for work-based learning.

Originality/value

This paper represents an initial action research study which examines the role WBL can provide for life-long learning.
Efficient isolation of human metapneumovirus using MNT‐1, a human malignant melanoma cell line with early and distinct cytopathic effects
Authors: Sato Ko , Watanabe Oshi , Ohmiya Suguru , Chiba Fumiko , Suzuki Akira , Okamoto Michiko , Younghuang Jiang , Hata Akihiro , Nonaka Hiroyuki , Kitaoka Setsuko , Nagai Yukio , Kawamura Kazuhisa , Hayashi Masahiro , Kumaki Satoru , Suzuki Tamio , Kawakami Kazuyoshi , Nishimura Hidekazu
Published: September 2017

Isolation of human metapneumovirus (HMPV) from clinical specimens is currently inefficient because of the lack of a cell culture system in which a distinct cytopathic effect (CPE) occurs. The cell lines LLC‐MK2, Vero and Vero E6 are used for isolation of HMPV; however, the CPE in these cell lines is subtle and usually requires a long observation period and sometimes blind passages. Thus, a cell line in which an early and distinct CPE occurs following HMPV inoculation is highly desired by clinical virology laboratories. In this study, it was demonstrated that, in the human malignant melanoma cell line MNT‐1, obvious syncytium formation occurs shortly after inoculation with HMPV‐positive clinical specimens. In addition, the growth and efficiency of isolation of HMPV were greater using MNT‐1 than using any other conventional cell line. Addition of this cell line to our routine viral isolation system for clinical specimens markedly enhanced isolation frequency, allowing isolation‐based surveillance. MNT‐1 has the potential to facilitate clinical and epidemiological studies of HMPV.
Hemispheric asymmetries in herbivory: do they exist?
Authors: Kozlov Mikhail V. , Klemola Tero
Published: September 2017

Latitudinal patterns in herbivory are widely debated. A recent publication (Zhang et al., Journal of Ecology, 104, 2016: 1089–1095) concluded that the absolute levels of herbivory (hypothesis 1), as well as latitudinal and climatic gradients in herbivory (hypothesis 2), differ between the hemispheres.

Zhang et al. (2016), among others, used a measure of plant damage from Moles & Westoby (Oikos, 90, 2000: 517–524) that greatly overestimates insect herbivory, and they did not include the main effect of hemisphere in their linear model that explored the relationship between herbivory and latitude. After correction of the values extracted from Moles & Westoby (2000), none of several statistical models that tested both hypotheses simultaneously (i.e. including hemisphere, latitude/climate and their interaction) confirmed the existence of statistically significant differences in the patterns of insect herbivory between the hemispheres.

Synthesis. The current level of knowledge does not provide grounds to conclude that hemispheric asymmetries exist either in the average levels of insect herbivory or in the relationships between herbivory and latitude or climate.
Metal Railing Fences and Accidental Death
Authors: Heath Karen J. , Cala Allan D. , Byard Roger W.
Published: September 2017

Two cases of accidental deaths caused by the sharp ends of fence or gate posts are reported. Case 1: A 47‐year‐old man was found hanging by his ankle in an inverted position on fencing. He had attempted a shortcut to a railway platform by climbing over a metal rail fence. He had slipped and been impaled through his ankle by the sharp end of the fence post, resulting in death from positional asphyxia. Case 2: An 18‐year‐old male slipped while climbing over a gate and died after being impaled on a spear tip finial, which had lacerated his external iliac vein. Death was due to exsanguination. These cases demonstrate two rare examples of accidental deaths from impalement by the ends of sharp fence posts. Mechanisms of death in such circumstances involve suspension with positional asphyxia and vascular injury with exsanguination.
Balance Sheet Conservatism and Debt Contracting
Authors: Sunder Jayanthi , Sunder Shyam V. , Zhang Jingjing
Published: September 2017

We study the role of borrowers’ balance sheet conservatism (i.e., conservatism in asset values) in debt contract design. We find that borrowing costs are decreasing in the degree of balance sheet conservatism, and this effect is stronger for firms with lower credit quality. This is consistent with balance sheet conservatism reducing lenders’ uncertainty about the liquidation value of assets, thus facilitating the ex ante screening of borrowers. We predict that better ex ante screening also reduces the need for ex post monitoring, and find that balance sheet conservatism is associated with less restrictive covenant terms. Further, we find that asymmetric timeliness in earnings is associated with lower borrowing costs only when balance sheet conservatism is not high. This result suggests that lenders appear to recognize the constraining effect of high balance sheet conservatism on future conservatism in earnings.