bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structure and dynamics of a cold-active esterase reveals water entropy and active site accessibility as the likely drivers for cold-adaptation
Authors: Noby Nehad , Auhim Husam Sabah , Winter Samuel , Worthy Harley L. , Embaby Amira M. , Saeed Hesham , Hussein Ahmed , Pudney Christopher R , Rizkallah Pierre J. , Wells Stephen A. , Jones D. Dafydd
Published: February 2021

Cold-active esterases hold great potential for undertaking useful biotransformations at low temperatures. Here, we determined the structure of a cold active family IV esterase (EstN7) cloned fromBacillus cohniistrain N1. EstN7 is a dimer with a classical α/β hydrolase fold. It has an acidic surface that is thought to play a role in cold-adaption by retaining solvation under changed water solvent entropy at lower temperatures. The conformation of the functionally important cap region is significantly different to EstN7’s closest relatives, forming a bridge-like structure with reduced helical content providing greater access to the active site through more than one access tunnel. However, dynamics do not appear to play a major role in cold adaption. Molecular dynamics at different temperatures, rigidity analysis, normal mode analysis and geometric simulations of motion confirm the flexibility of the cap region but suggest that the rest of the protein is largely rigid. Comparison of B-factors with the closest related mesophilic and thermophilic esterases suggests the EstN7 cap region is proportionally less flexible. Rigidity analysis indicates the distribution of hydrophobic tethers is appropriate to colder conditions, where the hydrophobic effect is weaker than in mesophilic conditions due to reduced water entropy. Thus, it is likely that increased substrate accessibility and tolerance to changes in water entropy are the main drivers of EstN7’s cold adaptation rather than changes in dynamics.
Scopolamine blocks context-dependent reinstatement of fear responses in rats
Authors: Vercammen Laura M. , Lo Adrian C. , D’Hooge Rudi , Vervliet Bram
Published: February 2021

Return of fear poses a problem for extinction-based therapies of clinical anxiety. Experimental research has discovered several pathways to return of fear, one of which is known as reinstatement. Here, we evaluated in rats the potential of scopolamine, a non-selective muscarinic receptor antagonist that is also safe for use in humans, to prevent the reinstatement of extinguished fear. We conducted three experiments with a total sample of 96 female rats. All rats went through a fear acquisition session (tone-shock pairings, CS-US), followed by two extinction sessions (CS only) and a post-extinction fear memory test. Twenty-four hours later, rats were placed in the same or a different context from extinction and received two unsignaled foot shock (US) presentations. On the following day, CS-evoked freezing returned when the reinstating USs had occurred in the same context compared to a different context (context-dependent reinstatement, Experiment 1). Systemic administration of scopolamine before or after the reinstating USs blocked the return of CS-evoked freezing on the following day (Experiments 2 and 3). Our findings suggest that administering scopolamine around the time of an aversive experience could prevent relapse of extinguished fears in humans.
Visualizing and quantifying data from timelapse imaging experiments
Authors: Mahlandt Eike K. , Goedhart Joachim
Published: February 2021

One obvious feature of life is that it is highly dynamic. The dynamics can be captured by movies that are made by acquiring images at regular time intervals, a method that is also known as timelapse imaging. Looking at movies is a great way to learn more about the dynamics in cells, tissue and organisms. However, science is different from Netflix, in that it aims for a quantitative understanding of the dynamics. The quantification is important for the comparison of dynamics and to study effects of perturbations. Here, we provide detailed processing and analysis methods that we commonly use to analyze and visualize our timelapse imaging data. All methods use freely available open-source software and use example data that is available from an online data repository. The step-by-step guides together with example data allow for fully reproducible workflows that can be modified and adjusted to visualize and quantify other data from timelapse imaging experiments.

Abstract Figure
Semisupervised adversarial neural networks for single-cell classification
Authors: Kimmel Jacob C. , Kelley David R.
Published: February 2021

Annotating cell identities is a common bottleneck in the analysis of single-cell genomics experiments. Here, we present scNym, a semisupervised, adversarial neural network that learns to transfer cell identity annotations from one experiment to another. scNym takes advantage of information in both labeled data sets and new, unlabeled data sets to learn rich representations of cell identity that enable effective annotation transfer. We show that scNym effectively transfers annotations across experiments despite biological and technical differences, achieving performance superior to existing methods. We also show that scNym models can synthesize information from multiple training and target data sets to improve performance. We show that in addition to high accuracy, scNym models are well calibrated and interpretable with saliency methods.
Online brand advocacy and brand loyalty: a reciprocal relationship?
Authors: Wilk Violetta , Soutar Geoffrey N. , Harrigan Paul
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to increase the understanding of the online brand advocacy (OBA) and brand loyalty relationship through a social identity theory lens.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was used to obtain the needed data and the relationships of interest were examined using a partial least squares structural equation modelling approach.

Findings

Brand loyalty and consumer-brand identification were found to be predictors of OBA, while OBA impacted on purchase intent. In addition, a strong reciprocal relationship was found between OBA and brand loyalty, which has not been reported in prior studies.

Research limitations/implications

This study highlighted OBA's complexity. It suggested OBA is not only an outcome of a consumer-brand relationship but also that OBA plays a key role in the development of such relationships. A consumer's identification with a brand fosters brand loyalty and purchase intent through the giving of OBA.

Practical implications

The more consumers vocalise their brand relationships through OBA, the more they strengthen their relationship with brands. The inclusion of OBA management in brand and marketing strategies should enable organisations to foster opportunities for online consumer-brand interactions that strengthen consumer-brand relationships.

Originality/value

First, unlike previous studies that have used makeshift scales to measure OBA, the authors used a recently developed OBA scale. Second, the important reciprocal relationship between OBA and brand loyalty, which has significant implications, has not been reported in prior research.
Based-restraining interval extension improved truncation algorithm for response analysis of uncertain mechanical systems
Authors: Yu Xueguang , Liu Xintian , Wang Xu , Wang Xiaolan
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to propose an improved affine interval truncation algorithm to restrain interval extension for interval function.

Design/methodology/approach

To reduce the occurrence times of related variables in interval function, the processing method of interval operation sequence is proposed.

Findings

The interval variable is evenly divided into several subintervals based on correlation analysis of interval variables. The interval function value is modified by the interval truncation method to restrain larger estimation of interval operation results.

Originality/value

Through several uncertain displacement response engineering examples, the effectiveness and applicability of the proposed algorithm are verified by comparing with interval method and optimization algorithm.
Will China’s low-carbon policy balance emission reduction and economic development? Evidence from two provinces
Authors: Yang Bowen , Liu Liping , Yin Yanhui
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Legislation plays a vital role in solving carbon emissions reduction and climate change issues. China began to implement a low-carbon economic policy in 2010, but the effect of the policy needs to be evaluated. Accordingly, this paper aims to discuss China’s low-carbon policy through exploring the following two questions, namely, whether the policy effect reaches the expected goal and whether the policy effects will balance economic development and emission reduction. Then, the paper puts forward suggestions for the improvement of China’s low-carbon policy.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is organized around three distinct aspects of policy effect evaluation. This paper uses the synthetic control method to construct a policy effect evaluation model and conducts a quasi-natural experiment. The paper selects annual panel data from 2003 to 2015, which is selected from 33 provinces. A comparative analysis of carbon dioxide emissions, energy consumption and economic development between Hubei Province and Liaoning Province.

Findings

The results reveal that the implementation of the low-carbon pilot province policy in 2010 has a significant impact on the emission reduction effect of Liaoning Province, but the impact on the emission reduction effect of Hubei Province is not significant. The carbon emission trading system implemented in 2012 has reduced the emission reductions in Hubei Province and Liaoning Province has achieved better emission reduction effects after the implementation of this policy. After the implementation of the policy, the economic development of Hubei Province has been improved, but it has not brought help to the economic development of Liaoning Province. These findings provide new insights into the use of an emissions trading system for improving economic development and ultimately facilitate the attainment of the broader goal of sustainability.

Originality/value

This paper proposes an innovative policy effect evaluation method by considering the status of unit gross domestic product, fixed asset investment in the energy industry, energy consumption, emission reduction technology innovation and other evaluation indicators. This paper contributes to broadening current methods of policy effect evaluation in China.
Perceived risks from drone food delivery services before and after COVID-19
Authors: Choe Ja Young (Jacey) , Kim Jinkyung Jenny , Hwang Jinsoo
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore if five subdimensions of perceived risk (financial, time, privacy, performance and psychological risks) negatively affects image. In addition, this study aims to investigate if image has a positive effect on intentions to use. Lastly, the purpose of this study was to examine the moderating effect of Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19), before and after the outbreak, in the relationship between perceived risk and image.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 331 people before the COVID-19 outbreak and 343 people after the COVID-19 outbreak. To test hypotheses, this study used structural equation modeling.

Findings

Time, performance and psychological risks negatively affected image before the outbreak of COVID-19. Meanwhile, performance risks and psychological risks had a negative influence on image only after the outbreak of COVID-19. In addition, there was demonstrated to be a positive relationship between image and intentions to use, both before and after the COVID-19 outbreak. Finally, the outbreak of COVID-19 positively moderates the relationship between performance risk and image.

Practical implications

The current study provides the following practical implications. First, industry practitioners need to develop a performance guarantee system which enhances the quality assurance of drone food delivery services (DFDS). Second, live streaming or creative activities would help to visualize DFDS in a way that stresses the stable operation of these services.

Originality/value

The importance of contactless services has been emphasized ever since the beginning of the COVID-19 outbreak. However, there has been very little research on the future of contactless services after COVID-19. This study investigated the perceived risk from DFDS as a form of contactless service which has not been conducted before. The findings of this study will improve the understanding of the changes that have occurred in consumers’ perception of risk from DFDS during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Blockchain: a strategic resource to attain and sustain competitive advantage
Authors: Kant Nikhil
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This paper aims to offer exploratory remarks by discussing whether blockchain can help organizations attain sustained competitive advantage in view of its increased applications and untapped potential. Organizations are yet to test its utilization as an intangible strategic resource at a time when organizational strategic landscapes – rapidly changing in a globally networked digitally empowered world – require them to enhance capability of combining resources for meeting stakeholders’ expectations.

Design/methodology/approach

Blockchain as an emerging technology draws frequent industry announcements and specialists’ posts on daily basis in media, and there exist inadequacies with respect to the availability of relevant studies in the extant literature on the subject of blockchain, which itself is in infancy. Keeping in view the limitations associated with the traditional understandings of scholarship underscoring, thereby that research and knowledge discovery have been restricting the progress across disciplines on account of which knowledge domains fail to make a meaningful effect; research design of the paper comprises the scholarship of integration method, which might appear to be less systematic but was more emergent in comparison to a traditional methodology of systematic literature review, and suitable for conducting this study.

Findings

Findings of this study suggest that blockchain with huge popularity as a technological innovation has huge potentialities and promises to be a strategic intangible resource for organizations helpful in attaining sustained advantage. However, the findings also suggest several cautionary remarks.

Research limitations/implications

This paper offers exploratory remarks by discussing blockchain in the context of its consideration as a significant intangible strategic resource helpful in attaining sustained competitive advantage, emphasizing the need for continuous attention and revision with its increased applications. It attempts to assess the untapped potential of blockchain incorporating ample scholarly value in this era of fourth industrial revolution. The findings offer greater significance for different stakeholders including researchers and policymakers. However, this paper limits itself by throwing light on the strategic aspects only while attempting to touch upon only those aspects of blockchain that were perceived to be helpful in understanding it as a resource of sustained competitive advantage.

Originality/value

This paper presents originality and value by offering exploratory remarks that can be immensely useful given the scarcity of literature on the novel blockchain with respect to its consideration as a strategic resource. This paper attempts to provide much needed underpinnings to the notion whether blockchain can help organizations attain and sustain competitive advantage.
Do political and business relations help emerging markets' SMEs in their national and international expansion? Evidence from Brazil and China
Authors: Fornes Gaston , Cardoza Guillermo , Altamira Maria
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study aims to understand whether business and political relations help emerging markets' SMEs to overcome the challenges posed by low institutionalization in their national and international expansion. It focuses on the role that these relations play in determining access to government funding and contracts and to market information and business-related knowledge.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected from 828 SMEs in Brazil and China. The data analysis was developed in two stages: the first stage was based on multivariate regression analyses using the ratio of sales outside the companies' region of origin divided by total sales as a dependent variable and the survey's answers as independent variables; outward sales were taken at two different levels – national and international – to consider: (1) the different stages in the national and international expansion process, and (2) the fragmented nature of domestic markets in both Brazil and China. The second stage was based on a stepwise multiple regression as the relative importance of the variables was not known beforehand and the objective was to rank them according to the managers' perceptions.

Findings

Informal institutions, in particular business and political relations, can help to reduce uncertainty and overcome some disadvantages associated with weak institutionalization. They do this by providing access to trusted distribution channels, improving the familiarity with different institutional environments and strengthening the management of supply chains and commercial strategies to serve markets outside their region. Also, SMEs in emerging markets getting access to private sources of funding, market knowledge and government contracts through business and political relations are in a better position to expand nationally and internationally.

Originality/value

The research shows that the domestic environment, in particular one with low levels of institutionalization, impacts negatively the national and international expansion of SMEs and, more importantly, how firms can use business and political relations to overcome the obstacles posed by this environment. The findings also have implications for theory, practice and policymaking.
Managerial ability in founding-family firms: evidence from Indonesia
Authors: Simamora Alex Johanes
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of founding-family firms on managerial ability.

Design/methodology/approach

Founding-family firms are determined by founder and/or family involvement as block holder and as in the firm board. Managerial ability is estimated by data envelopment analysis. Research samples consist of 412 manufacturing firm-years listed in the Indonesian Stock Exchange. Analysis data use random-effect regression as the main analysis and Huber-White regression as an alternative analysis.

Findings

This research finds that founding-family firms have a negative effect on managerial ability. Further, the result shows that lower managerial ability occurred when founding-family firms led by founder and professional CEOs, when other family members involved in the ownership and the board have higher family ownership. It indicates that founding-family firms concern more about family interest, such as family reputation, rather than business needs and best management practice.

Research limitations/implications

Limitation of this research does not occur if the founding-family firms are managed by first, second, third, etc., family generation. Future research expected to consider family generation in founding-family firms management.

Practical implications

This research can be used by founding-family firms in Indonesia as consideration of management policy formulation that can improve managerial ability.

Originality/value

This research provides new evidence if founding-family firms promote lower managerial ability in emerging market such Indonesian market where family businesses are the root of private businesses which have a major contribution to economics.
Digitally driven new product development: an involved contemporary innovation case
Authors: Yerpude Samir , Rautela Sonica
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the impact of real-time data emerging from implementation of the Internet of Things (IoT) and netnography on the efficiency of the new product development (NPD).

Design/methodology/approach

Customer-oriented organizations are the ones that survive in the market with a flow of new products to the market. Expectations like reduced timelines with quality focus provoke innovations. Customer inputs become the soul for a successful product wherein it becomes important to keep a constant stream of information flow back from the market. Literature review states that real-time data gathering with the implementation of IoT ensures the same. Along with real-time data, researchers have envisaged the need to identify the customer persona before incorporating customer opinion and sentiments vide netnography.

Findings

The organization can leverage the collaboration of IoT origin real-time data and sentiment analysis to effectively manage the NPD. Real-time customer data coupled with customer opinions and sentiments prove to be a game changer in the NPD process.

Originality/value

The originalities of this study are impact of IoT origin real-time data coupled with sentiment analysis on the NPD process. While impact of IoT origin data is reported in isolation similar to sentiment analysis, influence of collaboration of real-time data with sentiment analysis on NPD process is reported in this study.
Sandwich or long lunch? Lack of time and attendance of food outlets by French workers
Authors: Massey Camille , Brémaud Damien , Saulais Laure
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study explores the relation between workers' choices of food outlets for lunch during the workday and their time constraints.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 1,132 French wage-earners in order to identify the dimensions indicative of lack of time among workers and to examine their associations with the likelihood of different food outlet choices.

Findings

Exploratory factor analysis revealed four dimensions indicative of lack of time. Binary logistic regressions revealed that each dimension was linked to at least one food outlet choice. This research suggests that the dietary practices of workers are associated with their time constraints.

Practical implications

Time constraints play a role in attendance of food outlets for lunch and should be taken into account when promoting healthier lunch behaviors among employees.

Originality/value

This is the first research investigating the links between time constraints and attendance of food outlets in the context of lunch during the workday.
Do social networking sites promote life satisfaction? The explanation from an online and offline social capital transformation
Authors: Huang Lin , Zheng Daqing , Fan Weiguo
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The use of social networking sites (SNSs) can promote life satisfaction mainly because of their social relationship benefits. Although prior studies examined the roles of different types of social capital (SC), the association between online and offline SC is ignored. This research addresses this gap by uncovering a mechanism of transformation between online and offline SC in terms of bonding and bridging types when linking SNSs usage and life satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Categorizing the concept of SC into four sub-types from bonding/bridging and online/offline dimensions, the paper establishes a theoretical framework based on the transformation mechanism among these four kinds of SC. A component-based approach, partial least square method, is chosen for hypothesis testing with a survey-based sample collected from WeChat users.

Findings

First, SNSs usage is positively related to life satisfaction and four types of SC (i.e. online/offline and bonding/bridging SC). Second, both online bonding SC and offline bridging SC are positively related to life satisfaction and can mediate the relationship between SNSs usage and life satisfaction. Third, offline bonding SC is positively related to online bonding SC and can mediate the relationship between SNSs usage and online bonding SC; on the contrary, online bridging SC is positively related to offline bridging SC and can mediate the relationship between SNSs usage and offline bridging SC.

Practical implications

In the environment of SNSs, users can take vigorous strategies to better balance online and offline spaces and improve life satisfaction by adapting to the characteristics of SNSs in developing different types of SC. Specifically, it is encouraged for users to transfer online bridging SC into offline space and offline bonding SC into online space.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study exploring the association between online and offline SC when linking SNSs usage and life satisfaction. Instead of the single transformation direction from online to offline in prior Internet research, this research has revealed different transformation directions between online and offline SC in terms of bonding and bridging types in the context of SNSs.
Talent mapping: a strategic approach toward digitalization initiatives in the banking and financial technology (FinTech) industry in Indonesia
Authors: Santoso Wimboh , Sitorus Palti Marulitua , Batunanggar Sukarela , Krisanti Farida Titik , Anggadwita Grisna , Alamsyah Andry
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The development of information technology is highly influential to all sectors, including the financial industry. Various transformations are made in overcoming the dynamics of technological advancements, including the mapping of human resources. This study is conducted in the banking industry and companies operating using financial technology (FinTech) in Indonesia. This study aims to identify talent competencies needed in the future, based on current conditions and future needs, through mapping talent in the banking and FinTech industries.

Design/methodology/approach

This study provides empirical evidence about the mapping of talent management with eight basic competencies. It uses a mixed-method, explanatory sequential with survey approach in the first phase and focus group discussions (FGD) in the second phase. The questionnaire is distributed to 309 respondents who are the specific decision-makers in this industry. Meanwhile, the FGD is conducted twice at different times with academics and practitioners, human resources and talent managers. This research used analytic hierarchy process as a tool for data processing.

Findings

This study provides current competency positions and future needs in the banking and FinTech industries in Indonesia where it found a lot of competence segregation. It also discovered three priority competencies for dealing with Industry 4.0, which included relating and networking, adapting and responding to change and entrepreneurship and commercial thinking.

Practical implications

This study is valuable for decision-makers and regulators; these results can be used to find new competencies and talents to develop existing human resources. Also, these results can be used as a basis for policy-making related to the Industrial Revolution 4.0.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights on talent mapping in the banking and FinTech industries as a strategic approach in the digitalization era. In addition, this research also adds knowledge related to Industry 4.0 as a result of industry developments in the digitalization era.
Measurement of the high-quality development level of China's marine economy
Authors: Li Xuemei , Zhou Shiwei , Yin Kedong , Liu Huichao
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the high-quality development level of China's marine economy and analyze corresponding spatial and temporal distribution characteristic.

Design/methodology/approach

Design and optimize the index system of high-quality development level of marine economy and use entropy and TOPSIS method for comprehensive evaluation.

Findings

The research finds that from 2017 to 2019, the high-quality development tendency of China's marine economy is on the rise, but the overall level is still low. The level of each subsystem has different distribution characteristics in different provinces and cities. Guangdong, Shandong and Shanghai have a high comprehensive level. According to the comprehensive level of high-quality development of marine economy, 11 coastal provinces are divided into three types: leading, general and backward.

Research limitations/implications

This paper clarifies the temporal and spatial distribution law of high-quality development level of China's marine economy, providing basis for promoting comprehensive and coordinated improvement of coastal provinces and cities.

Originality/value

An indicator system for the high-quality development level of the marine economy has been established, including social development guarantee, marine economic foundation, marine science and technology drive and green marine sustainability.
An investigation of antecedents and consequences of supplier integration: a study in Indian context
Authors: Afshan Nikhat , Motwani Jaideep
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the antecedents and outcomes of supplier integration. Based on an extensive literature review, the study has proposed a research model, which includes both the antecedents and consequences of supplier integration. The study has included contextual factors, namely, trust, relationship commitment to supplier and information technology (IT) for supplier as antecedents to supplier integration. The supplier-related performance outcome and financial performance of manufacturing firm has been modeled as outcome variables.

Design/methodology/approach

The proposed research model was tested on a sample of 166 manufacturing firms from India using structural equation modeling.

Findings

The results suggested that trust, relationship commitment to supplier and IT for supplier have a positive impact on supplier integration. The results further confirmed the positive impact of supplier integration on supplier-related performance outcome and supplier-related performance outcome on financial performance of the firm.

Originality/value

The study argues that the contextual factors (trust, relationship commitment to supplier and IT for supplier will facilitate the integration between manufacturing firms and their suppliers). Further, the study argues that the supplier integration would lead to specific performance outcome resulting from a high level of integration between manufacturer and their key suppliers and labeled it as supplier-related performance outcome (SRPO). The study conceptualizes and develops scale to measure SRPO and investigates the impact of SRPO on the financial performance of the manufacturing firm.
Micro Data analytics: a test for analytical procedures
Authors: Santosuosso Pierluigi
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Despite the potential of Big Data analytics, the analysis of Micro Data represents the main way of forecasting the expected values of recorded amounts and/or ratios for small auditing firms and certified public accountants dealing with analytical procedures. This study aims to examine how effective Micro Data analytics are by testing the forecast accuracy of the ratio of the allowance for doubtful accounts to the trade accounts receivable and the natural logarithm of the net sales of goods and services, the first exposed to a greater uncertainty than the second.

Design/methodology/approach

Micro Data are low in volume, variety, velocity and variability, but high in veracity. Given the over-fitting problems affecting Micro Data analytics, the in-sample and out-of-sample forecasts were made for both tests. Multiple regression and neural network models were performed using a sample of 35 Italian industrial listed companies.

Findings

The accuracy level of the forecasting models was found in terms of mean absolute percentage error and other accuracy measures. The neural network model provided more accurate forecasts than multiple regression in both tests, showing a higher accuracy level for the amounts exposed to less uncertainty. Moreover, no generalized conclusions on predictors included in the models could be drawn.

Practical implications

The examination of forecast accuracy helps auditors to evaluate whether analytical procedures can be successfully applied to detect misstatements when Micro Data are used and which model gives the most accurate forecasts.

Originality/value

This is the first study to measure the forecast accuracy of the multiple regression and neural network models performed using a Micro Data set. Forecast accuracy is crucial for evaluating the effectiveness of analytical procedures.
Gender diversity and corporate risk-taking: a literature review
Authors: Teodósio João , Vieira Elisabete , Madaleno Mara
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The investigation of the relationship between gender diversity and corporate risk-taking is a recent stream of research. In this study, the authors propose an answer to the following main question: What do the authors know about gender effects in corporate risk-taking and how should we proceed?

Design/methodology/approach

In order to ensure the quality and the objectiveness of the literature review, the authors selected articles published in journals that are simultaneously ranked by the Chartered Association of Business Schools (ABS, 2018) and by the Journal Citation Reports (JCR, 2018), focused on the Board of Directors (BoD) and Top Management Teams (TMT).

Findings

The literature review reveals that women's presence on the BoD and TMT impacts corporate risk-taking in different ways. Based on the analysis, it is possible to organize the extant findings in two major categories, according to gender measures, firm type and country of origin: (1) universal effects – women decrease firms' litigation risk, failure risk and operational risk while they have no significant effect on insolvency risk and; (2) contingent effects – women have contingent effects on financial risk, manipulation risk, total risk, idiosyncratic risk and systematic risk.

Originality/value

Covering several different research fields, this study provides a comprehensive review concerning what the authors know regarding the effects of the BoD and TMT gender diversity in corporate risk-taking. The authors present a model summarizing empirical findings and propose a number of avenues for future research.
Supplier evaluation with order allocation in mega-projects
Authors: Yadegari Davoud , Avakh Darestani Soroush
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a model for evaluating, prioritizing and allocating orders to suppliers in the supply chain for mega-projects.

Design/methodology/approach

By using an integrated model (based on fuzzy analytic network process), suppliers are selected and the appropriate amounts are allocated to them in mega-projects. Initially, a hierarchical model of the research method was introduced. Then, the results on reliability and validity analysis of research measurement tools were presented. Finally, prioritization and allocation of orders to suppliers, with a case study of Iran Mall project, was carried out using Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) and analytic network process (ANP). T-test was used to evaluate the research hypotheses.

Findings

The findings were examined against conventional numerical analysis techniques. Finally, implication and recommendations for future work were presented.

Originality/value

The originality of this work is about using multi-criteria decision-making techniques for evaluating suppliers in mega-projects.
Reviewing and rebalancing the positive skew of emotions in transformational leadership
Authors: Chauhan Rahul Singh , Howe David Charles , Soderberg Andrew
Published: February 2021

Purpose

Transformational leaders have long been known to use emotions to motivate their followers and guide their energy toward the vision set forth by the leader. Much of the past research and theory on this topic has exhibited a bias toward positively valenced emotions. Negative emotions have received limited attention relative to positive emotions, and this imbalance has led to a skewed understanding of the relationship between emotions and transformational leadership (TL).

Design/methodology/approach

The study reviews the organizational literature regarding negative emotion expression in TL.

Findings

The study integrates research regarding negative emotions and TL with the existing body of research regarding positive emotions and TL. The authors argue that the range of emotions considered needs to be broadened and rebalanced. Practical and theoretical implications are also discussed.

Originality/value

The study integrates the benefits of negative emotions and TL the more well-known and explored the benefits of positive emotions and TL. The study uses the four components of TL theory, i.e. inspirational motivation (IM), idealized influence (II), individualized consideration (IC) and intellectual stimulation (IC), to explore how transformational leaders can effectively display negative emotions. The study ultimately presents a more balanced overview of emotions and TL.
Effects of cranberry consumption on features of the metabolic syndrome: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized control trials
Authors: Hormoznejad Razie , Mansoori Anahita , Hosseini Seyed Ahmad , Zilaee Marzie , Asadi Maryam , Fathi Mojdeh , Kiany Fateme
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this paper with meta-analysis is to clarify the effects of cranberry consumption on features of the metabolic syndrome of interest of all relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs).

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature search was conducted on ISI web of science, PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane library and Google Scholar databases, to include trials published up to March 2019. Weighted mean differences (WMD) were calculated from a random or fixed-effects models. Between‐study heterogeneity was assessed by Cochrane’s test and I2 index.

Findings

Ten RCTs were included in this review which involving a total of 371 subjects. Our meta-analysis showed that cranberry consumption had beneficial effects on waist circumference (WMD −0.49, 95% CI −0.96 to −0.036; p = 0.034). No significant effect of cranberry consumption on fasting blood glucose, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure was found in this meta-analysis.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first systematic review with meta-analysis of RCTs that investigate the effect of cranberry consumption on features of the metabolic syndrome.
Industry 4.0 technology provision: the moderating role of supply chain partners to support technology providers
Authors: Benitez Guilherme Brittes , Ferreira-Lima Mateus , Ayala Néstor F. , Frank Alejandro G.
Published: February 2021

Purpose

The provision of Industry 4.0 solutions demands a vast range of technology domains. To provide these solutions, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) may need the support of different supply chain actors through an inbound open innovation strategy. The authors study the contribution of four types of supply chain actors for inbound open innovation: suppliers, competitors with complementary technologies, R&D centers and customers. The authors analyze how these four actors moderate the effect of integrated Industry 4.0 solutions on three main competitive strategies: cost, focalization and differentiation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a survey on 77 SMEs from the automation sector, using OLS regression with moderating effects. They considered the integration of 15 technologies and 7 classic automation activities in the provision of Industry 4.0 solutions. The authors also studied three competitive outputs – technology cost reduction (cost), customer loyalty (focalization) and technology innovation (differentiation) – as well as four supply chain actors (moderators).

Findings

Expanding the provision of Industry 4.0 technologies increases customer loyalty and technology innovation. Collaboration with competitors (complementary technologies) leverage these results and reduce technology costs. Integration between customers and R&D centers elevates costs but R&D centers can foster long-run innovation.

Originality/value

This study is the first to empirically investigate inbound open innovation in the supply chain for technology development in the context of Industry 4.0. The authors discuss how these actors contribute to four inbound open innovation activities: technology scouting; horizontal technology collaboration; vertical technology collaboration; and technology sourcing.
Loss of predation risk from apex predators can exacerbate marine tropicalization caused by extreme climatic events
Authors: Nowicki Robert J. , Thomson Jordan A. , Fourqurean James W. , Wirsing Aaron J. , Heithaus Michael R.
Published: February 2021

Extreme climatic events (ECEs) and predator removal represent some of the most widespread stressors to ecosystems. Though species interactions can alter ecological effects of climate change (and vice versa), it is less understood whether, when and how predator removal can interact with ECEs to exacerbate their effects. Understanding the circumstances under which such interactions might occur is critical because predator loss is widespread and ECEs can generate rapid phase shifts in ecosystems which can ultimately lead to tropicalization.

Our goal was to determine whether loss of predation risk may be an important mechanism governing ecosystem responses to extreme events, and whether the effects of such events, such as tropicalization, can occur even when species range shifts do not. Specifically, our goal was to experimentally simulate the loss of an apex predator, the tiger sharkGaleocerdo cuviereffects on a recently damaged seagrass ecosystem of Shark Bay, Australia by applying documented changes to risk‐sensitive grazing of dugongDugong dugonherbivores.

Using a 16‐month‐field experiment established in recently disturbed seagrass meadows, we used previous estimates of risk‐sensitive dugong foraging behaviour to simulate altered risk‐sensitive foraging densities and strategies of dugongs consistent with apex predator loss, and tracked seagrass responses to the simulated grazing.

Grazing treatments targeted and removed tropical seagrasses, which declined. However, like in other mixed‐bed habitats where dugongs forage, treatments also incidentally accelerated temperate seagrass losses, revealing that herbivore behavioural changes in response to predator loss can exacerbate ECE and promote tropicalization, even without range expansions or introductions of novel species.

Our results suggest that changes to herbivore behaviours triggered by loss of predation risk can undermine ecological resilience to ECEs, particularly where long‐lived herbivores are abundant. By implication, ongoing losses of apex predators may combine with increasingly frequent ECEs to amplify climate change impacts across diverse ecosystems and large spatial scales.
Scavenging and carcass caching behavior by European wildcat (Felis silvestris)
Authors: Krofel Miha , Južnič Damjan , Allen Maximilian L.
Published: February 2021

While scavenging has been repeatedly reported for several felid species, surprisingly little information is available on scavenging behavior of the European wildcat (Felis silvestris). To fill this knowledge gap, we used camera traps to document scavenging behavior at the 48 experimentally set deer carcasses at random locations throughout the year. We recorded European wildcats scavenging on 38% of the eight carcasses set in winter and on none set in the other parts of the year. Wildcats fed on two carcasses for extended periods (up to 22 days) with an average of 3.3 visits per day and 7.8‐h interval between the visits. We recorded scavenging throughout the day, but analysis indicated a crepuscular pattern. We also recorded caching behavior on 7% of the visits (n = 105), when wildcats used leaves or snow to partly or completely cover the carcasses. Beside wildcats, 12 other vertebrate species of scavengers were recorded at the carcasses. We recorded agonistic interaction with European badger (Meles meles) and despite its smaller size, the wildcat managed to defend the carcass. The extensive feeding, frequent caching behavior and active defense from scavengers indicate that the wildcats recognized the ungulate carcasses as an important food source in winter and that scavenging could be a neglected aspect of the European wildcat ecology. We also suggest that caching behavior could be regularly used by the European wildcat when feeding on larger carcasses, but was likely previously missed due to limited research effort to record scavenging and caching behavior.
Are Non‐controlling Foreign Institutional Investors a Friend or Foe to Equity Liquidity? Evidence from China*
Authors: Liu Beibei , Wang Zhichen , Yip Rita W. Y.
Published: February 2021

China has opened its stock market to internationally renowned institutional investors but restricts their ownership. We examine whether foreign institutional investors in China, as liquidity providers with superior information, reduce information asymmetry and improve stock liquidity. Using a panel dataset of 18 173 firm–year observations from 2006 to 2015, we find that non‐controlling foreign institutional investors in China enhance liquidity. This association is more pronounced for firms with poor internal corporate governance and in underdeveloped institutional environments. Additional analysis shows our results are unlikely to be driven by reverse causality or omitted variables.
Perinatal inflammation relates to early respiratory morbidity and lung function at 12 years of age in children born very preterm
Authors: Hagman Cecilia , Björklund Lars J. , Bjermer Leif , Hansen‐Pupp Ingrid , Tufvesson Ellen
Published: February 2021

Aim

Very preterm birth may be associated with lung function impairment later in life. It is not known if this is caused by prematurity per se or by associated perinatal events, such as maternal–foetal inflammation and severity of early neonatal lung disease. We assessed these factors in a prospective cohort of very preterm infants followed from birth to middle school age.

Methods

In 71 infants with a gestational age of median 27.4 (range 23.9–31.7) weeks, pro‐inflammatory and modulatory cytokines were measured in umbilical cord blood and in arterial blood sampled at 6, 24 and 72 h after birth, and cumulated cytokine concentrations were calculated as area under the curve (AUC). At median 12.6 (range 12.3–13.5) years of age, pulmonary function testing was done in 53 children.

Results

There was a positive correlation between days on mechanical ventilation and AUC for IL‐6 (p = 0.001), IL‐8 (p = 0.015) and IL‐10 (p = 0.006). Infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD; n = 32) had higher AUC for the cytokines IL‐6, IL‐8 and IL‐10 than those without BPD (all p < 0.01). Higher levels of AUC for IL‐6 at birth correlated with lower forced expiratory volume in 1 s (p = 0.030) and lower mean expiratory flow rate between 25 and 75% of forced vital capacity (p = 0.034).

Conclusion

Perinatal inflammation, assessed by circulating cytokines in the first three days of life, was associated with BPD and with airway obstruction at 12 years of age.