bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Temporal dynamics of nitrogen cycle gene diversity in a hyporheic microbiome
Authors: Nelson William C. , Graham Emily B. , Crump Alex R. , Fansler Sarah J. , Arntzen Evan V. , Kennedy David W. , Stegen James C.
Published: August 2019

Biodiversity is thought to prevent decline in community function in response to changing environmental conditions through replacement of organisms with similar functional capacity but different optimal growth characteristics. We examined how this concept translates to the within-gene level by exploring seasonal dynamics of within-gene diversity for genes involved in nitrogen cycling in hyporheic zone communities. Nitrification genes displayed low richness— defined as the number of unique within-gene phylotypes—across seasons. Conversely, denitrification genes varied in both richness and the degree to which phylotypes were recruited or lost. These results demonstrate that there is not a universal mechanism for maintaining community functional potential for nitrogen cycling activities, even across seasonal environmental shifts to which communities would be expected to be well adapted. As such, extreme environmental changes could have very different effects on the stability of the different nitrogen cycle activities. These outcomes suggest a need to modify existing conceptual models that link biodiversity to microbiome function to incorporate within-gene diversity. Specifically, we suggest an expanded conceptualization that (1) recognizes component steps (genes) with low diversity as potential bottlenecks influencing pathway-level function, and (2) includes variation in both the number of entities (e.g.species, phylotypes) that can contribute to a given process and the turnover of those entities in response to shifting conditions. Building these concepts into process-based ecosystem models represents an exciting opportunity to connect within-gene-scale ecological dynamics to ecosystem-scale services.
Glucocorticoids Induce the Expansion of an Immature Human CFU-E Population
Authors: Ashley Ryan , Yan Hongxia , Wang Nan , Hale John , Dulmovits Brian M. , Papoin Julien , Olive Meagan , Udeshi Namrata D. , Carr Steven A. , Vlachos Adrianna , Lipton Jeffrey M. , Da Costa Lydie , Hillyer Christopher , Kinet Sandrina , Taylor Naomi , Mohandas Narla , Narla Anupama , Blanc Lionel
Published: August 2019

Despite effective clinical use, the mechanistic bases for the regulation of human erythropoiesis by glucocorticoids remain poorly understood. Here, we employed an erythroid culture system to differentiate primary human CD34+cells isolated from control peripheral blood, cord blood and patients with Diamond Blackfan anemia (DBA), as model of an erythropoietic disorder treated with glucocorticoids. We found that the response to Dexamethasone is dependent on the developmental origin of the source of CD34+cells, specifically increasing the expansion of CD34+cells from peripheral blood but not cord blood. We also demonstrated that Dex treatment leads to the expansion of a novel immature colony-forming unit-erythroid (CFU-E) population in peripheral blood which is uniquely responsible for the proliferative effects observed during human adult erythropoiesis. Dex treatment of peripheral blood CFU-E cells also induced p57Kip2expression while patients with DBA resistant to steroids had altered p57Kip2expression that did not increase with Dex. Furthermore, shRNA knockdown of p57Kip2reduced proliferation and abrogated the effects of Dex. Finally, proteomics of Dex-treated CFU-E from peripheral blood and cord blood additionally revealed novel Dex targets in the erythroid system. Altogether, these results provide novel insights into the regulation of human erythropoiesis by glucocorticoids.

Graphical Abstract
Yeast Bax Inhibitor (Bxi1p/Ybh3p) is a Calcium Channel inE. coli
Authors: Mullin James , Kalhorn John , Mello Nicholas , Raffa Amanda , Strakosha Alexander , Austriaco O.P. Nicanor
Published: August 2019

Human Bax Inhibitor-1 (HsBI-1/TMBIM6) is the founding member of the evolutionary conserved TMBIM superfamily of proteins that share sequence homology within the transmembrane Bax inhibitor-containing motif (TMBIM). Mechanistically, BI-1/TMBIM6 and all the other mammalian TMBIM proteins appear to be involved in the maintenance of calcium homeostasis, and the crystal structure of a bacterial TMBIM protein, BsYetJ, suggests that the protein is a pH-sensitive calcium leak. The budding yeast,Saccharomyces cerevisiae, has a single TMBIM family member (YNL305C) named Bxi1p/Ybh3p. To determine the function of Bxi1p/Ybh3p, we overexpressed Bxi1p-EGFP inE. colito determine if it is a calcium channel. We show that bacterial cells expressing Bxi1p-EGFP are more permeable to calcium than controls. Thus, our data suggests that yeast Bax inhibitor (Bxi1p) is a calcium channel inE. coli, lending support to our proposal that Bxi1p is abona fidemember of the TMBIM family of proteins. Further, we use our bacterial system to show that gadolinium is an inhibitor of Bxi1pin vivo, suggesting a path forward to identifying other small-molecular inhibitors of this clinically-important and highly conserved superfamily of proteins. Finally, parallel experiments revealed that the human Bax Inhibitor-1 (HsBI-1/TMBIM6) is also a calcium channel in bacteria that can be inhibited by gadolinium.
Single-cell RNA-seq highlights heterogeneity in human primary Wharton’s Jelly mesenchymal stem/stromal cells cultured in vitro
Authors: Sun Changbin , Wang Lei , Wang Hailun , Huang Tingrun , Zhang Xi
Published: August 2019

Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal cells (MSCs) are multipotent cells with promising application potential in regenerative medicine and immunomodulation. However, MSCs cultured in vitro exhibit functional heterogeneity. The underlying molecular mechanisms that define MSC heterogeneity remain unclear. Here, we investigated gene-expression heterogeneity of human primary Wharton’s Jelly-derived MSCs (WJMSCs) cultured in vitro via single-cell RNA-seq. At the single-cell level, highly variable genes (HVGs) are associated with functional characteristics of classic MSCs. Differentially expressed genes analysis revealed the existence of several distinct subpopulations exhibit different functional characteristics associated with proliferation, development, and inflammation response. By comparing our WJMSCs data with a public available adipose-derived MSCs (ADMSCs) single cell transcriptomic data, we found that HVGs from these two studies are largely overlapped and have similar functional enrichment. Taken together, these results suggested that these HVGs hold the potential to be used as candidate markers for further potency association studies.
Altering Mammalian Transcription Networking with Adaadi: An Inhibitor of Atp-Dependent Chromatin Remodeling
Authors: Rakesh Radhakrishnan , Hussain Saddam , Goel Kaveri , Sharma Soni , Bisht Deepa , Chanana Upasana Bedi , Hockensmith Joel W. , Muthuswami Rohini
Published: August 2019

Transcriptional control has been earnestly pursued for the regulation of cellular proliferation associated with cancer progression. The foundational paradigm of targeting transcription factors has yielded exquisite specificity, but many factors cannot yet be targeted. In contrast, targeting epigenetic factors to control chromatin structure and consequential gene expression generally yields more global effects on transcription. Our working paradigm targets neither specific transcription factors nor global epigenetic factors but ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling factors that regulate expression of a limited set of genes. Active DNA-dependent ATPase A Domain inhibitor (ADAADi) synthesized by aminoglycoside phosphotransferases is the first-in-class inhibitor of ATP-dependent chromatin remodeling proteins that targets the ATPase domain of these proteins. Mammalian cells are sensitive to ADAADi but cell lines are variable in their individual responses to the inhibitor. The ADAADi product can be generated from a variety of aminoglycoside substrates with cells showing differential responses to ADAADi depending on the starting aminoglycoside. RNA seq analysis demonstrated that targeting the chromatin remodeling by treatment with a sub-lethal concentration of ADAADi yields alterations to the transcriptional network of the cell. Predominantly, the tumor-promoting genes were repressed while pro-apoptotic and tumor suppressors genes were upregulated on treatment with ADAADi, leading to apoptotic-type cell death. Treatment with ADAADi reversed the EMT process as well as inhibited migration of cells and their colony forming ability. In conjunction with the previous report that treatment with ADAADi regresses tumors in mouse model, this chromatin remodeling inhibitor shows promising anti-tumor properties by targeting the main hallmarks of cancer.
Representation of uncertainty in macaque visual cortex
Authors: Hénaff Olivier J. , Boundy-Singer Zoe M. , Meding Kristof , Ziemba Corey M. , Goris Robbe L. T.
Published: August 2019

Uncertainty is intrinsic to perception. Neural circuits which process sensory information must therefore also represent the reliability of this information. How they do so is a topic of debate. We propose a view of visual cortex in which average neural response strength encodes stimulus features, while cross-neuron variability in response gain encodes the uncertainty of these features. To test our theory, we studied spiking activity of neurons in macaque V1 and V2 elicited by repeated presentations of stimuli whose uncertainty was manipulated in distinct ways. We show that gain variability of individual neurons is tuned to stimulus uncertainty, that this tuning is invariant to the source of uncertainty, and that it is specific to the features encoded by these neurons. We demonstrate that this behavior naturally arises from known gain-control mechanisms, and derive how downstream circuits can jointly decode stimulus features and their uncertainty from sensory population activity.
Usp14 is required for spermatogenesis and ubiquitin stress responses in Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Kovács Levente , Nagy Ágota , Pál Margit , Deák Peter
Published: August 2019

Deubiquitinating (DUB) enzymes free covalently linked ubiquitins from ubiquitin-ubiquitin and ubiquitin-protein conjugates, and thereby maintain the equilibrium between free and conjugated ubiquitins and regulate ubiquitin-mediated cellular processes. The present genetic analyses of mutant phenotypes demonstrate that loss of Usp14 function results in male sterility, with defects in spermatid individualization and reduced testicular free monoubiquitin levels. These phenotypes were rescued by germline specific overexpression of wild type Usp14. Synergistic genetic interactions with Ubi-p63E and cycloheximide sensitivity suggest that ubiquitin shortage is a primary cause of male sterility. In addition, Usp14 is predominantly expressed in testes in Drosophila, and differential expression patterns may be causative of testis-specific loss of function Usp14 phenotypes. Collectively, these results suggest a major role of Usp14 in maintaining normal steady state free monoubiquitin levels during the later stages of Drosophila spermatogenesis.
NF-κB signaling regulates the formation of proliferating Müller glia-derived progenitor cells in the avian retina
Authors: Palazzo Isabella , Deistler Kyle , Hoang Thanh V. , Blackshaw Seth , Fischer Andy J.
Published: August 2019

Neuronal regeneration in the retina is a robust, effective process in some cold-blooded vertebrates, but this process is ineffective in warm-blooded vertebrates. Understanding the mechanisms and cell-signaling pathways that restrict the reprogramming of Müller glia into proliferating neurogenic progenitors is key to harnessing the regenerative potential of the retina. Inflammation and reactive microglia are known to influence the formation of Müller glia-derived progenitor cells (MGPCs), but the mechanisms underlying this response are unknown. Using the chick retinain vivoas a model system, we investigate the role of the Nuclear Factor kappa B (NF-κB) signaling, a critical regulator of inflammation. We find that components of the NF-κB pathway are expressed by Müller glia and are dynamically regulated after neuronal damage or treatment with growth factors. Inhibition of NF-κB enhances, whereas activation suppresses the formation of proliferating MGPCs. Additionally, activation of NF-κB promotes glial differentiation from MGPCs in damaged retinas. With microglia ablated, the effects of NF-κB-agonists/antagonists on MGPC formation are reversed, suggesting that the context and timing of signals provided by reactive microglia influence how NF-κB-signaling impacts the reprogramming of Müller glia. We propose that NF-κB-signaling is an important signaling “hub” that suppresses the reprogramming of Müller glia into proliferating MGPCs and this “hub” coordinates signals provided by reactive microglia.
Whole integration of neural connectomics, dynamics and bio-mechanics for identification of behavioral sensorimotor pathways in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Kim Jimin , Santos Julia A. , Alkema Mark J. , Shlizerman Eli
Published: August 2019

The ability to fully discern how the brain orchestrates behavior requires the development of successful computational approaches to integrate and inform in-vivo investigations of the nervous system. To effectively assist with such investigations, computational approaches must be generic, scalable and unbiased. We propose such a comprehensive framework to investigate the interaction between the nervous system and the body for the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans (C. elegans). Specifically, we introduce a model that computationally emulates the activity of the complete somatic nervous system and its response to stimuli. The model builds upon the full anatomical wiring diagram, the connectome, and integrates it with additional layers including intra-cellular and extra-cellular bio-physically relevant neural dynamics, layers translating neural activity to muscle forces and muscle impulses to body postures. In addition, it implements inverse integration which modulates neural dynamics according to external forces on the body. We validate the model by in-silico injection of currents into sensory- and inter-neurons known to play a role in locomotion behaviors (e.g. posterior/anterior touch) and by applying external forces on the body. We are able to generate characteristic baseline locomotion behaviors (forward and backward movements). Inclusion of proprioceptive feedback, implemented through inverse integration, shows that feedback can entrain and sustain movements initiated by neural or mechanical triggers. We further apply neural stimuli, experimentally known to modulate locomotion, and show that our model supports natural behavioral responses such as turns, reversals and avoidance. The proposed model can be utilized to infer neural circuits involved in sensorimotor behavior. For this purpose, we develop large-scale computational ablation approaches such as (i) ablation survey and (ii) conditional ablation. Our results show how an ablation survey can identify neurons required for a ventral turning behavior. We also show how conditional ablation can identify alternative novel neural pathways, e.g. propose neurons which facilitate steering behavior towards olfactory attractants. The outcomes of our study show that the framework can be utilized to identify neural circuits, which control, mediate and generate natural behavior.
Landscape scale terrestrial factors are also vital in shaping Odonata diversity of watercourses
Authors: Nagy H. Beáta , László Zoltán , Szabó Flóra , Szőcs Lilla , Dévai György , Tóthmérész Béla
Published: August 2019

Habitat loss and fragmentation causes decline of insect populations. Odonata (both dragonflies and damselflies) are especially threatened, because they are notably influenced by both aquatic and terrestrial environment. We explored the relative importance of local and landscape variables for Odonata assemblages (species richness, assemblage composition, population abundance) revealing differences in the sensitivity of Zygoptera and Anisoptera on the selected variables. Our study took two years and was placed along 11 lowland watercourses. We sampled the specimens using 500 m long transects from May to September. Landscape variables (length of watercourses, forest patch proportion, and farmland patch size) were calculated at three scales to better account for fragmentation. Our findings show that local variables influence damselflies, but dragonflies are more sensitive to landscape variables. Damselfly’s diversity decreased with the increasing macrovegetation cover, while dragonfly’s diversity decreased with the increasing degree of land use intensification, but increased with the length of watercourses. Our findings, both on local and landscape scales demonstrated the importance of terrestrial environment on Odonata. Based on our findings we stress the importance of partial watercourse clearing, and maintenance of traditional farm management based on small parcel farming near watercourses to maintain diverse and healthy Odonata assemblages.
Non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals can enhance the spread of antibiotic resistance via conjugation
Authors: Wang Yue , Lu Ji , Zhang Shuai , Li Jie , Mao Likai , Yuan Zhiguo , Bond Philip L. , Guo Jianhua
Published: August 2019

Antibiotic resistance is a global threat for public health. It is widely acknowledged that antibiotics at sub-inhibitory concentrations are important in disseminating antibiotic resistance via horizontal gene transfer. While there is high use of non-antibiotic human-targeted pharmaceuticals in our societies, the potential contribution of these on the spread of antibiotic resistance has been overlooked so far. Here, we report that commonly consumed non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac), a lipid-lowering drug (gemfibrozil), and a β-blocker (propanolol), at clinically and environmentally relevant concentrations, significantly accelerated the conjugation of plasmid-borne antibiotic resistance genes. We looked at the response to these drugs by the bacteria involved in the gene transfer through various analyses that included monitoring reactive oxygen species (ROS) and cell membrane permeability by flow cytometry, cell arrangement, and whole-genome RNA and protein sequencing. We found the enhanced conjugation correlated well with increased production of ROS and cell membrane permeability. We also detected closer cell-to-cell contact and upregulated conjugal genes. Additionally, these non-antibiotic pharmaceuticals caused the bacteria to have responses similar to those detected when exposed to antibiotics, such as inducing the SOS response, and enhancing efflux pumps. The findings advance our understanding of the bacterial transfer of antibiotic resistance genes, and importantly emphasize concerns of non-antibiotic human-targeted pharmaceuticals for enhancing the spread of antibiotic resistance.
PSS: An enabling QTY server for designing water-soluble α-helical transmembrane proteins
Authors: Tao Fei , Tang Hongzhi , Zhang Shuguang , Xu Ping
Published: August 2019

Membrane proteins, especially the α-helical ones such as G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs), are considered extremely important owing to their significant biological roles. However, their expression and purification pose difficulties because of their poor solubility in water, which seriously impedes research progress in this field. Recently, QTY method, a revolutionary code-based protein engineering approach, was developed for the purpose of producing soluble transmembrane proteins. Here we describe a web server built for QTY design and certain analyses related to it (pss.sjtu.edu.cn). Typically, the Simple Design model is expected to take only 2-4 min, and the Library Design 2-5 h, of computer time, depending on target protein size and the number of transmembrane helices. Further, we describe a protocol for using the server with both Simple and Library Design modules. Protocols for experiments based on QTY design are also included. In summary, utilization of the web server, and associated protocols, will enable QTY-based protein-engineering to be implemented in a convenient, fast, accurate, and rational manner.
Influence of perceived and effective congruence on recall and purchase intention in sponsored printed sports advertising
Authors: Alonso Dos Santos Manuel , Calabuig Moreno Ferran , Crespo-Hervás Josep
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of congruence (perceived and effective) and the level of visual attention towards sponsors on recall and purchase intention in sports sponsorship by applying neurophysiological measures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is part of neuromarketing research applied to sports. The experiment entails eye tracking with 111 men and 129 women (n=24) with 24 sports posters of three different disciplines (sailing, tennis and F1), varying the congruence, the number of sponsors and the position (2×2×2). The data are analyzed via analysis of covariance and regression using ordinary least squares.

Findings

Brand recall is influenced by the number of sponsors present on the poster and by the time of fixation. Effective and perceived congruence covariance the purchase intention, but the full time of fixation on the sponsor does not. The latter only, purchase intention indirectly.

Practical implications

The results enable managers to implement better poster designs and sponsors to have objective measures of sponsorship.

Originality/value

There are few studies that analyze print media in sponsorship using neurophysiological techniques. This research is a pioneer in considering attention to sports posters to examine recall and purchase intention.
A comprehensive framework for evaluating web services composition methods
Authors: Abidi Sarra , Fakhri Myriam , Essafi Mehrez , Ben Ghazela Henda
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Web services composition engineering (WSCE) is a big challenge because of the increasing complexity, openness and extensibility of services based on the information system (IS). In the absence of an adequate framework for IS engineering, the authors assume that the overall problem is consequently no longer easy to resolve. This paper aims to explore some of the issues underlying WSCE through a framework, which is built based on the state of the art. The proposed framework is structured around five views that mainly highlight aspects of personalization and security concerns. The main objectives of this framework are: to help understand and clarify the basics of the WSCE domain; to evaluate web services composition (WSC) methods; to analyze and compare existing personalization, secure methods and identify new research axes; and to identify the main criteria of the ongoing approach for the design of a secure IS based on personalized WSC.

Design/methodology/approach

This work develops a framework that is used as an analytical study to compare the existing WSCE methods and come up with research issues. Then, the proposed framework is considered as an abstract model for the new WSCE approach.

Findings

A set of criteria that the proposed framework should consider when developing a new approach to a secure IS based on personalized WSs composition.

Research limitations/implications

The paper has theoretical implications as the personalization and security issues provide a research roadmap toward the realization of an approach for the design of a secure IS based on personalized WSs composition.

Practical implications

As proof, the authors are interested in a web services repository of a real mall. To do this, the authors deployed the application in a cloud environment and observed the results of personalization and security concepts in WSCE.

Originality/value

None of the existing comparison frameworks has raised both personalization and security issues in WSs composition, while personalization and security must be present in the whole composition process.
Friction and wear properties of three different steels against paper-based friction material
Authors: Wu Jianpeng , Ma Biao , Li Heyan , Ma Chengnan
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study friction and wear properties of three types of steels against paper-based friction disc, including 65Mn, 20#steel and 30CrAl, so as to obtain the appropriate working conditions for different friction materials in the transmission system.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on actual working conditions, pin-on-disc tests are conducted on a universal material tester. The two evaluation indexes, including average friction coefficient and variation coefficient, are introduced to analyze the different friction properties among three types of steel. Furthermore, the temperature-dependent wear pattern and wear depth are subsequently studied.

Findings

The results show that 65Mn is more suitable for working under heavy load and low velocity, but 30CrAl and 20#steel are suitable for working under light load and high velocity. Moreover, wear primarily occurs on paper-based material and peaks at about 325.

Practical implications

This research of different materials and friction property for friction pairs is helpful to improve the performance and prolong the service life of transmission systems.

Originality/value

Suitable working conditions of different friction materials are obtained, and the correlation between wear and decomposition in high temperature is verified.
Maturity as a way forward for improving organizations’ communication evaluation and measurement practices
Authors: Gilkerson Nathan David , Swenson Rebecca , Likely Fraser
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an explication of the concept of “maturity,” as it applies to communication evaluation and measurement (E&M) practice, along with contextualization of recent maturity model adoption within academic and professional communities.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from previous work on maturity models within other fields, recent communication scholarship and industry practice, this paper fills a gap in the literature by offering a theoretical conceptualization of communication E&M maturity, including the construct’s core dimensions and sub-dimensions.

Findings

Communication E&M maturity is conceptualized into four essential elements: holistic approach, investment, alignment and culture. The contribution of E&M efforts is represented as the direct support of corporate strategy, and ultimately increased value, from the communications function. Operational elements of maturity include levels of analysis, time, budget, tools, skills, process, integration, motivations, relationships and standards.

Originality/value

In exploring the factors necessary for “mature” E&M programs, and specifically emphasizing the need for a holistic approach, along with sufficient investment and alignment, and conducive cultural factors, the research builds upon existing work examining how communication can serve to inform corporate strategy and create value for an organization. Greater understanding and application of the maturity concept has the potential to advance the field by increasing both accountability and credibility for the work done by the communications function.
“Cyclical assets” and cyclical capitalization
Authors: d'Amato Maurizio , Siniak Nikolaj , Mastrodonato Giulia
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is providing a possible methodological solution to the valuation of cyclical.assets. International Valuation Standards introduce a brand new definition of property: the cyclical asset (International Valuation Standards Council 2017, IVS 105, p. 39 and p. 41). Among different property valuation methods, normally this kind of properties is appraised using income approach. In this group of methodology, the opinion of value is based on a proportional relationship between property value and rent. In the past years, a group of methods called cyclical capitalization has been proposed (d’Amato, 2003; d’Amato, 2013;d’Amato, 2015; d’Amato, 2017a; d’Amato 2017 b; d’Amato, 2017c). This method proposes an integration between property valuation and property market cycle.

Design/methodology/approach

Cyclical capitalization method is applied using a time series of property market rent of offices in prime location in the South Bank area in London. It consists of the determination of more than one all-risk yield to reproduce the property market cycle.

Findings

A comparison between the cyclical capitalization and two traditional capitalization rate shows how the proposed model is able to provide a stable opinion of value.

Research limitations/implications

The method may represent a contribution for the determination of the value of cyclical assets or for the mortgage lending value.

Practical implications

This paper provides the possibility to have a property valuation method less sensitive to upturn and downturn of the property market.

Social implications

The valuation based on cyclical capitalization are less sensitive to the upturn and the downturn of the market.

Originality/value

It is one of the first scientific paper addressing the problem of the determination of the value of cyclical assets.
Energy efficiency practices in facilities management in Johannesburg
Authors: Adewunmi Yewande Adetoro , Alister Anthony , Phooko Bopape , Nokukhanya Thabethe
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine at energy efficiency practices within the facilities management sector and barriers to adopting energy efficient strategies, it further explored the factors that promote the employment of energy efficient practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered by means of an electronic survey, administered to facilities managers in Johannesburg.

Findings

Energy efficient lighting is the most used energy efficiency practice. It further uncovered that occupant engagement and education is considered least, amongst current energy efficiency practices. This study revealed that the biggest barrier to the implementation of energy efficient facilities management practices was the cost implications of adopting FM strategies and rated the lowest were policies and regulations of energy efficiency standards. Cost reduction was the highest rated factor that promotes energy efficiency practices.

Practical implications

Occupants should be educated on energy efficiency through a change of their behaviours and also exposed to the benefits of using energy conservation measures. Management buy-in should be the goal of the facilities manager for the success of energy efficient practices.

Originality/value

This study is an encompassing study on energy efficiency where many aspects of energy efficiency and factors that promote energy efficiency were explored.
A study of Indonesian community’s behaviour in paying zakat
Authors: Cokrohadisumarto Widiyanto bin Mislan , Zaenudin Zaenudin , Santoso Bejo , Sumiati Siti
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop a model of the Muslim community’s behaviour in paying zakat to contribute ideas on how to increase zakat recipients nationally, so as to improve the welfare of the wider community.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a quantitative (i.e. multiple regression analysis that involves moderating variables) and descriptive approach. Multiple regression analysis with the stepwise method is implemented to get the best regression model of community’s behaviour in paying zakat. This study takes a sample of Muslim communities in several regions (northern coast) of Central Java, Indonesia.

Findings

In the situation of the absence of government regulations relating to the obligation to pay zakat for Muslim communities, the community’s behaviour in paying zakat can be formed through two things, which are: increasing the zakat understanding and strengthening the credibility of zakat management institutions. Providing complete information to the community regarding the existence and what has been done and what will be done by the zakat management institution is very necessary.

Research limitations/implications

This study has not specifically discussed the various types of zakat paid, such as commercial zakat, agricultural zakat and professional zakat. Therefore, future research can be done more specifically to determine the behaviour of paying zakat based on the type of zakat as stated.

Practical implications

Increasing the target of collecting zakat funds from the community nationally needs: (i) educating the community about zakat more broadly and sustainably; (ii) strengthening the credibility of the zakat management institution; and (iii) strengthening the flow of information from the zakat management institution to the community.

Originality/value

Research on community’s behaviour in paying zakat has never been done before. This study analyses the behaviour of paying zakat comprehensively, namely, in terms of adherence to God and the government, awareness without coercion and the behaviour of choosing a place to pay zakat.
The role of Islamic marketing ethics towards customer satisfaction
Authors: Abbas Aamir , Nisar Qasim Ali , Mahmood Mahmood A. Husain , Chenini Abderrahim , Zubair Ahsan
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Islamic marketing ethics focus on the principles of equity, justice and value maximization for the welfare of society. These ethics play a vital role in elevating the standards of customer behavior. The strategy of focusing customer is now considered as important element because of rapidly changing marketing trends in Islamic banks. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to find out the important features of Islamic marketing ethics and identify their effect on customer’s satisfaction in Islamic banking.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is descriptive and quantitative. Data were collected from 1000 customers of Islamic banks by applying convenient sampling technique. Smart PLS was used to check the scale validation by confirmatory factor analysis. To test the hypotheses, structural equation modeling technique was used.

Findings

Results enlightened that Islamic marketing ethics play a significant role in enhancing the customer’s satisfaction. Islamic banks should focus on marketing mix along with Islamic and ethical perspectives to improve the customer’s satisfaction level.

Practical implications

This study highlighted that Islamic marketing ethics have great impact on customer satisfaction. Therefore, Islamic banks need to concentrate on the ethical perspective of Islamic marketing in order to develop long term customer relationships. Islamic banks need to revise their marketing practices, and they should align their marketing tactics with ethical Islamic boundaries. They need to design, communicate and enforce the code of Islamic ethics within organizations.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study how Islamic marketing ethics effect customer satisfaction.
Individual and managerial predictors of the different forms of employee voice
Authors: Unler Ela , Caliskan Sibel
Published: August 2019

Purpose

Analysis of employee voice has focused on the reasons and managerial issues regarding the available environment to speak up. The purpose of this paper is to understand the effect of management attitude on employee voice with the mediating effect of individual’s perceived psychological safety (PPS). Besides, the role of job satisfaction (JS) and being individualist/collectivist as moderators over the effect of psychological safety on employee voice are analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors constructed a framework based on Maynes and Podsakoff’s (2014) view that identifies four different types of voice behavior (supportive, constructive, defensive and destructive). In total, 286 questionnaires were collected from employees working in telecommunication industry.

Findings

Based on analysis, positive management attitude facilitates supportive and constructive voice (CV) and reduces destructive voice (DESV). PPS mediates the relationship with management attitude and DESV. JS level facilitates supportive CV and reduces DESV. Collectivism level of employees moderates PPS and DESV. Path analysis results showed a similar model for mediation effect of safety, and showed a better model fit and explanation for trust mediation between LMX and supportive, constructive and DESV. Supported assumptions would be discussed-based social exchange theory and signaling theory.

Research limitations/implications

The sample is relatively small which limits the external validity of the findings.

Practical implications

Results revealed the managerial attitude over employee voice through perceived work environment (psychological safety) and trust.

Originality/value

This study is one of the first that integrates not only constructive but also DESV into the model.
Additive manufacturing and mechanical properties of lattice-curved structures
Authors: Cuan-Urquizo Enrique , Martínez-Magallanes Mario , Crespo-Sánchez Saúl E. , Gómez-Espinosa Alfonso , Olvera-Silva Oscar , Roman-Flores Armando
Published: August 2019

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the feasibility of the fabrication of circle arc curved-layered structures via conventional fused deposition modeling (FDM) with three-axis machines and to identify the main structural parameters that have an influence on their mechanical properties.

Design/methodology/approach

Customized G-codes were generated via a script developed in MATLAB. The G-codes contain nozzle trajectories with displacements in the three axes simultaneously. Using these, the samples were fabricated with different porosities, and their influence on the mechanical responses evaluated via tensile testing. The load-displacement curves were analyzed to understand the structure-property relationship.

Findings

Circled arc curved-layered structures were successfully fabricated with conventional three-axis FDM machines. The response of these curved lattice structures under tensile loads was mapped to three main stages and deformation mechanisms, namely, straightening, stretching and fracture. The micro-structure formed by the transverse filaments affect the first stage significantly and the other two minimally. The main parameters that affect the structural response were found to be the transverse filaments, as these could behave as hinges, allowing the slide/rotation of adjacent layers and making the structure more shear sensitive.

Research limitations/implications

This paper was restricted to arc-curved samples fabricated with conventional three-axis FDM machines.

Originality/value

The FDM fabrication of curved-structures with controlled porosity and their relation to the resulting mechanical properties is presented here for the first time. The study of curved-lattice structures is of great relevance in various areas, such as biomedical, architecture and aerospace.
The Potential Horizontal and Vertical Spillovers from Foreign Direct Investment on Indonesian Manufacturing Industries
Authors: Sari Dyah Wulan
Published: August 2019

This study investigates the potential horizontal and vertical spillovers from FDI towards firms’ efficiency level on Indonesian manufacturing industries, using firm‐level panel data. The result suggests that positive evidence of horizontal spillovers arise instantaneously, but the impacts of vertical spillovers appear a year later. These indicate that foreign competitors cause local firms more efficient in the same industry. Furthermore, after one period of time MNCs running their business in Indonesia, they bring positive impacts on downstream markets but deteriorate manufacturing industries in the upstream markets. Therefore, the Indonesian government must ensure that overall benefits from promoting FDI must overweight their negative impacts.
Assessing Tax Risk: Practitioner Perspectives
Authors: Neuman Stevanie S. , Omer Thomas C. , Schmidt Andrew P.
Published: August 2019

This study uses insights from tax practitioners and tax authorities to define and develop an estimate of ex ante tax risk that is independent of common tax outcomes studied in prior literature. Validation tests confirm that our tax risk measure (i) represents the predictable and unpredictable uncertainty inherent in the three sources of tax risk (i.e., economic risk, tax law uncertainty, and inaccurate information processing) and (ii) is a construct different from tax avoidance, tax uncertainty, and general business risk. Using our tax risk measure, we address two research questions of interest to academics and practitioners. First, we examine the association between tax risk and long‐run tax avoidance and find a negative association between tax risk and future long‐run cash effective tax rates (ETRs). Second, we consider the extent to which unrecognized tax benefits (UTBs) reflect tax risk, tax avoidance, or financial reporting incentives and demonstrate that our tax risk measure explains a substantial portion of UTBs, incremental and relative to measures of information risk, conditional conservatism, unconditional conservatism, and tax avoidance. Our study offers a measure of tax risk that, consistent with the Scholes‐Wolfson paradigm, reflects the tax risk inherent in all business activities, not just tax avoidance activities; has unique industry effects; and contributes to our understanding of the factors that affect tax planning decisions and result in variation in firms' ETRs. Our findings will help managers and tax practitioners focus on industry‐specific tax risk components, assess risk during tax planning initiatives, exercise caution when engaging in additional risk if ETRs are low, and adapt tax risk strategies to fit specific company needs. We enhance future tax research by improving the definition and measurement of tax risk.
China's Anti‐Corruption Campaign and Financial Reporting Quality
Authors: Hope Ole‐Kristian , Yue Heng , Zhong Qinlin
Published: August 2019

We examine the impact of China's anti‐corruption campaign on firm‐level financial reporting quality (FRQ). As an important component of the anti‐corruption campaign, in October 2013, “Rule 18” was issued to prohibit party and government officials from serving as directors for publicly listed firms. The regulation led to a large number of official directors resigning from their roles as directors involuntarily. As such, Rule 18 has effectively weakened, if not fully discontinued, the political connections of the firms that previously hired officials as directors. Our empirical analyses employ a difference‐in‐differences research design with firm fixed effects and propensity‐score matching to examine the pre‐ and post‐period FRQ around the enactment of Rule 18. We find that, compared to propensity‐score‐matched control firms, FRQ of firms with resigned official directors increases after Rule 18. Further evidence suggests that the impact is stronger when firms are located in regions with more developed financial markets and in regions with higher judiciary efficiency. We also find that the effect is more pronounced when firms are non‐state‐owned, received preferential credits, and face refinancing pressure.
Merchant and marauder—The adventures of a Sabaean clansman
Authors: Multhoff Anne
Published: August 2019

Ten years ago, a Sabaean inscription on a votive plaque of bronze was made known—immediately attracting the attention of the scholarly world because of its historical implications. This text, which has been given the sigla BL‐Nashq ? and Demirjian 1, respectively, by the editors, speaks—among others—about a commercial journey of its author to the north of the Arabian Peninsula—as far as Gaza, Judah, and even Cyprus. While the key message of this account is quite clear, a controversial discussion has evolved around the date of the “war between Chaldaea and Greece” mentioned in the text, thus yielding inconsistent proposals stretching from the seventh up to the early fourth century BC. In the search for possible synchronisms of the events mentioned in the text, however, clear parallels from Ancient South Arabia have almost been neglected. In a number of mostly Minaic inscriptions, first of all RES 3022, some striking lexical and formulaic isoglosses with the Sabaic text can be made out which can hardly be explained by coincidence. A thorough reconsideration of these texts will demonstrate that the events described in BL‐Nashq ? = Demirjian 1 could have found resonance in other documents from the region—resulting in a consistent chronological framework for all involved texts. In conclusion, we may watch the story of a Sabaean official in his commercial and diplomatic involvement with northern Arabia and the Levant in the shadow of political tensions within the Achaemenid Empire in the late fifth–early fourth century BCE.
Should cigarette pack sizes be capped?
Authors: Blackwell Anna K. M. , Lee Ilse , Scollo Michelle , Wakefield Melanie , Munafò Marcus R. , Marteau Theresa M.
Published: August 2019

Background

Very few countries regulate maximum cigarette pack size. Larger, non‐standard sizes are increasingly being introduced by the tobacco industry. Larger portion sizes increase food consumption; larger cigarette packs may similarly increase tobacco consumption. Here we consider the evidence for legislation to cap cigarette pack size to reduce tobacco‐related harm.

Aims and analysis

We first describe the regulations regarding minimum and maximum pack sizes in the 12 countries that have adopted plain packaging legislation and describe the range of sizes available. We then discuss evidence for two key assumptions that would support capping pack size. First, regarding the causal nature of the relationship between pack size and tobacco consumption, observational evidence suggests that people smoke fewer cigarettes when using smaller packs. Secondly, regarding the causal nature of the relationship between reducing consumption and successful cessation, reductions in number of cigarettes smoked per day are associated with increased cessation attempts and subsequent abstinence. However, more experimental evidence is needed to infer the causal nature of these associations among general populations of smokers.

Conclusion

Cigarette pack size is positively associated with consumption and consumption is negatively associated with cessation. Based on limited evidence of the causal nature of these associations, we hypothesize that government regulations to cap cigarette pack sizes would positively contribute to reducing smoking prevalence.
Late relapse in patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma: impact of rituximab on their incidence and outcome
Authors: Vannata Barbara , Conconi Annarita , Winkler Jonas , Cascione Luciano , Margiotta Casaluci Gloria , Nassi Luca , Moia Riccardo , Pirosa Maria Cristina , Moccia Alden A. , Stathis Anastasios , Rossi Davide , Gaidano Gianluca , Zucca Emanuele
Published: August 2019

Diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) constitutes 25–35% of all non‐Hodgkin lymphomas in Western countries. Approximately two thirds of the patients can be cured with standard immuno‐chemotherapy. Most relapses occur within 1–2 years from diagnosis, however, the occurrence of relapses after 5 years or more has been described. We aimed at defining the incidence and clinical features of late relapses. Data of 1113 DLBCL patients were analysed. Among the 196 patients relapsing after a first complete remission, 36 (18% of relapses and 3% of all DLBCLs) experienced a recurrence more than 5 years from diagnosis. Late relapsing patients, in comparison with those relapsing earlier, showed a more favourable risk profile at presentation: normal lactate dehydrogenase levels (P = 0·002), early Ann Arbor stage (P = 0·006) and low International Prognostic Index (P = 0·003). The risk of late relapse was lowered by the introduction of rituximab as part of the front‐line treatment (P < 0·001). Cause‐specific survival (CSS) from the time of relapse was significantly better for late relapsing patients compared to those relapsing early: 5‐year CSS rates were 53% and 31%, respectively (P = 0·033). A trend toward a better overall survival was also observed, with 5‐year rates after relapse of 47% and 25%, respectively (P = 0·054).