bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of whole genome amplification and bioinformatic methods for the characterization ofLeishmaniagenomes at a single cell level
Authors: Imamura Hideo , Jara Marlene , Monsieurs Pieter , Sanders Mandy , Maes Ilse , Vanaerschot Manu , Berriman Matthew , Cotton James A. , Dujardin Jean-Claude , Domagalska Malgorzata A.
Published: February 2020

Here, we report a pilot study paving the way for further single cell genomics studies inLeishmania. First, the performances of two commercially available kits for Whole Genome Amplification (WGA), PicoPlex and RepliG was compared on small amounts ofLeishmania donovaniDNA, testing their ability to preserve specific genetic variations, including aneuploidy levels and SNPs. We show here that the choice of WGA method should be determined by the planned downstream genetic analysis, Picoplex and RepliG performing better for aneuploidy and SNP calling, respectively. This comparison allowed us to evaluate and optimize corresponding bio-informatic methods. As PicoPlex was shown to be the preferred method for studying single cell aneuploidy, this method was applied in a second step, on single cells ofL. braziliensis, which were sorted by fluorescence activated cell sorting (FACS). Even sequencing depth was achieved in 28 single cells, allowing accurate somy estimation. A dominant karyotype with three aneuploid chromosomes was observed in 25 cells, while two different minor karyotypes were observed in the other cells. Our method thus allowed the detection of aneuploidy mosaicism, and provides a solid basis which can be further refined to concur with higher-throughput single cell genomic methods.
Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) lumenal indicators inDrosophilareveal effects of HSP-related mutations on ER calcium dynamics
Authors: Oliva Megan K , Perez-Moreno Juan José , O’Shaughnessy Jillian , Wardill Trevor J , O’Kane Cahir J
Published: February 2020

Genes for ER-shaping proteins are among the most commonly mutated in Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia (HSP). Mutation of these genes in model organisms can lead to disruption of the ER network. To investigate how the physiological roles of the ER might be affected by such disruption, we developed tools to interrogate its Ca2+signaling function. We generated GAL4-driven Ca2+sensors targeted to the ER lumen, to record ER Ca2+fluxes in identifiedDrosophilaneurons. UsingGAL4lines specific for Type Ib or Type Is larval motor neurons, we compared the responses of different lumenal indicators to electrical stimulation, in axons and presynaptic terminals. The most effective sensor, ER-GCaMP6-210, had a Ca2+affinity close to the expected ER lumenal concentration. Repetitive nerve stimulation generally showed a transient increase of lumenal Ca2+in both the axon and presynaptic terminals. Mutants lacking neuronal reticulon and REEP proteins, homologs of human HSP proteins, showed a larger ER lumenal evoked response compared to wild type; we propose mechanisms by which this phenotype could lead to neuronal dysfunction or degeneration. Our lines are useful additions to aDrosophilaCa2+imaging toolkit, to explore the physiological roles of ER, and its pathophysiological roles in HSP and in axon degeneration more broadly.
ASCL1 regulates neurodevelopmental transcription factors and cell cycle genes in glioblastoma
Authors: Vue Tou Yia , Kollipara Rahul K. , Borromeo Mark D. , Smith Tyler , Mashimo Tomoyuki , Burns Dennis K. , Bachoo Robert M. , Johnson Jane E.
Published: February 2020

Glioblastomas (GBMs) are incurable brain tumors with a high degree of cellular heterogeneity and genetic mutations. Transcription factors that normally regulate neural progenitors and glial development are aberrantly co-expressed in GBM, conferring cancer stem-like properties to drive tumor progression and therapeutic resistance. However, the functional role of individual transcription factors in GBMsin vivoremains elusive. Here, we demonstrate that the basic-helix-loop-helix (bHLH) transcription factor ASCL1 regulates transcriptional targets that are central to GBM development, including neural stem cell and glial transcription factors, oncogenic signaling molecules, chromatin modifying genes, and cell cycle and mitotic genes. We also show that the loss of ASCL1 significantly reduces the proliferation of GBMs induced in the brain of a genetically relevant glioma mouse model, resulting in extended survival times. RNA-seq analysis of mouse GBM tumors reveal that the loss of ASCL1 is associated with downregulation of cell cycle genes, illustrating an important role for ASCL1 in controlling the proliferation of GBM.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Main Points

ASCL1 is co-expressed with neural stem cell/glial transcription factors in GBM

ASCL1 binds to genes that are important for cell proliferation and cancer in the brain.

Loss of ASCL1 downregulates cell cycle genes and increase survival of glioma mouse model.

Table of Content Image
Low Cost Metabolic Fuel Sensor for On-Demand Personal Health and Fitness Tracking
Authors: Candell L. M. , Hoyt R. W. , Mahan J. M. , Siegel A. M. , Standley R. M. , Thompson K. J. , Shaw G. A.
Published: February 2020

Metabolic health in the general population has declined significantly in just one to two generations despite increased emphasis on dieting and exercise. A challenge in prescribing a healthy diet and exercise regimen is the variability individuals exhibit in response to particular foods, calorie restricted diets and exercise regimens. This paper describes a prototype metabolic fuel sensor designed for ease of use and personal tracking of metabolic energy expenditure and fuel substrate utilization. Examples of the sensor measurements and potential applications to weight management and tracking of chronically high blood glucose are described.
Resistance to decitabine and 5-azacytidine emerges from adaptive responses of the pyrimidine metabolism network
Authors: Gu Xiaorong , Tohme Rita , Tomlinson Benjamin , Hasipek Metis , Durkin Lisa , Schuerger Caroline , Zidan Asmaa M. , Radivoyevitch Tomas , Hong Changjin , Carraway Hetty , Hamilton Betty , Sobecks Ronald , Jha Babal K. , Hsi Eric D. , Maciejewski Jaroslaw , Saunthararajah Yogen
Published: February 2020

Mechanisms-of-resistance to decitabine and 5-azacytidine, mainstay treatments for myeloid malignancies, require investigation and countermeasures. Both are nucleoside analog pro-drugs processed by pyrimidine metabolism into a nucleotide analog that depletes the key epigenetic regulator DNA methyltranseferase 1 (DNMT1). We report here that DNMT1 protein, although substantially depleted (~50%) in patients’ bone marrows at response, rebounded at relapse, and explaining this, we found pyrimidine metabolism gene expression shifts averse to the processing of each pro-drug. The same metabolic shifts observed clinically were rapidly recapitulated in leukemia cells exposed to the pro-drugs in vitro. Pyrimidine metabolism is a network that senses and preserves nucleotide balances: Decitabine, a deoxycytidine analog, and 5-azacytidine, a cytidine analog, caused acute and distinct nucleotide imbalances, by off-target inhibition of thymidylate synthase and ribonucleotide reductase respectively. Resulting expression changes in key pyrimidine metabolism enzymes peaked 72-96 hours later. Continuous pro-drug exposure stabilized metabolic shifts generated acutely, preventing DNMT1-depletion and permitting exponential leukemia out-growth as soon as day 40. Although dampening to activity of the pro-drug initially applied, adaptive metabolic responses primed for activity of the other. Hence, in xenotransplant models of chemorefractory AML, alternating decitabine with 5-azacytidine, timed to exploit compensating metabolic shifts, and addition of an inhibitor of a catabolic enzyme induced by decitabine/5-azacytidine, extended DNMT1-depletion and time-to-distress by several months versus either pro-drug alone. In sum, resistance to decitabine and 5-azacytidine emerges from adaptive responses of the pyrimidine metabolism network; these responses can be anticipated and thus exploited.

GRAPHICAL ABSTRACT
Freedom of Speech and Expression Threatened in India: Recent Events
Authors: Agarwal Anurag K.
Published: February 2020

The Constitution of India guarantees freedom of speech and expression to its citizens. This freedom is not absolute and the State can impose reasonable restrictions. Of late, certain incidents have shown this freedom to be under threat. The case highlights some of such events. It makes the readers think about the importance of this right, reasonableness of restrictions, and the measures needed to protect it.
Proctor & Gamble v/s Colgate - 2003: An Exercise in Competitive Dynamics
Authors: Dixit Mukund R. , Karthik D.
Published: February 2020

This exercise describes the competitive dynamics situation faced by two large companies, Colgate – Palmolive and Proctor and Gamble in oral care business. Both of them introduced a tooth whitening solutions and anticipated to sustain their competitive lead. P&G introduced its solution in August 2000 and Colgate followed it in September 2002. This was followed by another introduction by Colgate April 2003. The intensified the competitive battle between the two companies. The participants are required to get into the shoes of either Colgate or P&G to think through a competitive strategy. The case provides information on the estimated demand for tooth whitening solutions, gains and losses of the two companies, R&D expenditure, players in the oral hygiene market and legal framework for complaining to facilitate the analysis of the situation and decision making by the participants. The case can be used in modules on competitive strategy, innovation, and economics of strategy.
Sahara, SEBI and SC Saga
Authors: Agarwal Anurag K.
Published: February 2020

The case deals with the Supreme Court's decision of August 31, 2012, ordering Sahara to refund Rs. 24,000 crores and interest to SEBI, so as to refund to the real investors. Despite unambiguous orders, Sahara did not comply fully and kept on prolonging the matter using number of pretexts, ultimately resulting in Roy's arrest. The case has been primarily written for easy understanding of facts, principles of corporate governance, and further developments, as mentioned in judgment, which runs into hundreds of pages. It depicts the legal journey of the fight between a company and the financial regulator in the country.
Enercon India v. Enercon GmbH: Concluded Contract, Arbitration and Intellectual Property
Authors: Agarwal Anurag K.
Published: February 2020

The case deals with the issues of technology transfer and protection of intellectual property in an international contract, with the International commercial arbitration as the dispute resolution method. The case highlights the distrust between parties when they do not want to continue doing business together and the use of legal technicalities to delay the matter from settling and utter confusion due to international nature of contract, multiple court proceedings in different countries and even questioning the status of the contract – whether a concluded contract or not.
Dr. C.F. Shah and his Innovations
Authors: Dixit M.R.
Published: February 2020

This case describes the innovations of a medical practitioner over six decades of practice. It provides an opportunity to the participants to analyse the motivation, processes, constraints and outcomes or innovating efforts of individuals as opposed to corporates. During his career Dr. Shah has experimented with novel methods of treatment, applications of known solutions and new product formulations. At the fag end of his career Dr. Shah is wondering whether the innovating efforts were worth their white.
Renewable energy market SMEs: antecedents of internationalization
Authors: Asemokha Agnes , Ahi Ali , Torkkeli Lasse , Saarenketo Sami
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a foundational understanding of the internationalization of small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) operating in the context of renewable energy markets. The focus is on exploring and identifying the managerial-, firm- and environmental-level antecedents to their international expansion, which also furthers the understanding of the distinct SME’s internationalization context within the renewable energy market.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts a qualitative multiple case study approach in a Finnish SME context and identifies the antecedents’ relative prominence at the managerial, firm and environmental levels.

Findings

The findings indicate that, although internationalization antecedents of renewable energy SMEs differ owing to market forces such as trends, networks and changing regulatory policies, they share antecedents similar to those of SMEs in other industries.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this study is its single-country home market empirical context. Future studies should expand analysis to different regulatory and regional environments.

Originality/value

To the authors’ knowledge, there are few studies that explore the antecedents of SMEs’ internationalization, especially in the renewable energy market context. Hence, this study contributes to the international business and entrepreneurship literature by illustrating the fundamental managerial-, firm- and environmental-level antecedents to the internationalization of SMEs operating in the renewable energy business. In addition, it highlights the peculiarities of renewable energy SMEs’ internationalization, suggesting that extant research on SMEs’ internationalization has not adequately captured the intricacies present in the internationalization of renewable energy enterprises.
Corporate responses to modern slavery risks: an institutional theory perspective
Authors: Flynn Anthony , Walker Helen
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Drawing on statements made under the transparency in supply chains provision of the UK Modern Slavery Act, this paper aims to examine how firms are responding to modern slavery risks in their supply chains.

Design/methodology/approach

Using an institutional theory lens, a content analysis of modern slavery statements by financial times stock exchange (FTSE) firms is carried out. The analysis focusses on sources of modern slavery institutional pressure and changes that firms have made in their structures, policies and practices in response to modern slavery risks.

Findings

Three sources of institutional pressure are inferred from modern slavery statements: international human rights accords (coercive), multi-stakeholder initiatives (mimetic) and professional standards (normative). Changes made by firms in direct response to modern slavery include adopting new policies, strengthening contract terms, establishing working/steering groups and creating new key performance indicators. FTSE 100 firms have been more proactive than FTSE 250 firms in making these changes, as have firms in higher risk industries.

Research limitations/implications

The analysis covers FTSE firms only. Responses to modern slavery risks by non-FTSE firms deserve attention.

Practical implications

The UK Modern Slavery Act relies on non-government organisations and consumers to hold firms to account over modern slavery. Policymakers should be aware that while this strategy might work with high profile firms, it is less applicable to firms that operate below the public radar.

Originality/value

The paper shows that institutional theory has validity for explaining corporate responses to modern slavery risks.
Don’t play the odds, play the man
Authors: Issac Abraham Cyril , Baral Rupashree , Bednall Timothy Colin
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The nature of knowledge and the way it is assimilated do play a vital role in influencing knowledge sharing tendencies. These specific factors coupled with the ineffectiveness of the intrinsic knowledge management system point towards an inherent knowledge hiding tendency that exists within every organization. Knowledge hiding is established as an intentional attempt to hide knowledge when it is requested. In the recent past, scholars have investigated the factors causing hiding of the task-related knowledge. However, there is still no clear understanding of the strategic factors that lead to knowledge hiding in organizations and which of these factors are the most critical ones. The purpose of this paper is to identify the most critical strategic factors that cause knowledge hiding in different contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

This research study tries to identify these factors from the literature, corroborate it with industry experts and model the same with the aid of total interpretive structural modelling. This is followed by Matrice d'Impacts Croises Multiplication Appliquée a un Classement and sensitivity analysis, which determines the unique driving factors and their powers, which vary based on industry sectors and years of work experience.

Findings

This study found out that knowledge hiding behaviour is more pronounced in the initial years of an individual within the organization and similarly in the final years of an individual within the organization. In a period in between both these, there are no critical driving factors that infuse knowledge hiding.

Originality/value

This is one of the first comprehensive research studies that unravel the dynamic nature of the strategic factors engendering knowledge hiding across two different dimensions, namely, industry sectors and work-experience of individuals. This study categorically aims to aid the management in bringing out necessary interventions to curb the menace of knowledge hiding.
Fuzzy combinatorial optimization in four-dimensional tradeoff problem of cost-time-quality-risk in one dimension and in the second dimension of risk context in ambiguous mode
Authors: Hosseinzadeh Farhad , Paryzad Behzad , Pour Nasser Shahsavari , Najafi Esmaeil
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The optimization and tradeoff of cost-time-quality-risk in one dimension and this four-dimensional problem in ambiguous mode and risk can be neither predicted nor estimated. This study aims to solve this problem and rank fuzzy numbers using an innovative algorithm “STHD” and a special technique “radius of gyration” (ROG) for fuzzy answers, respectively.

Design/methodology/approach

First, it is the optimization of a fully fuzzy four-dimensional problem which has never been dealt with in regard to risk in ambiguous mode and complexities. Therefore, the risk is a parameter which has been examined neither in probability and estimableness mode nor in the ambiguous mode so far. Second, it is a fully fuzzy tradeoff which, based on the principle of incompatibility “Zadeh, 1973”, proposes that when the complexity of a system surpasses the limited point, it becomes impossible to define the performance of that system accurately, precisely and meaningfully. The authors believe that this principle is the source of fuzzy logic. Third, for calculating and ranking fuzzy numbers of answers, a special technique for fuzzy numbers has been used. Fourth, For the sake of ease, precision and efficiency, an innovative algorithm called the technique of hunting dolphins “STHD” has been used. Finally, the problem is very close to reality. By applying risk in ambiguous mode, the problem has been realistically looked at.

Findings

The results showed that the algorithm was highly robust, with its performance depending very little on the regulation of the parameters. Ranking fuzzy numbers using the ROG indicated the flexibility of fuzzy logic, and it was also determined that the most appropriate regulations were to ensure low time, risk and cost but maximum quality in calculations, which were produced non-uniformly based on the levels of Pareto answers.

Originality/value

The ROG and Chanas Fuzzy Critical Path Method as developed by other researchers have been used. Despite the increase in limitations, parameters can develop. The originality of this study with regard to evaluating the results of tradeoff combinatorial optimization is upon decision-making which has a special and highly strategic role in the fate of the project, with the research been conducted with a special approach and different tools in a fully fuzzy environment.
Circumferential defect detection using ultrasonic guided waves
Authors: Da Yihui , Dong Guirong , Shang Yan , Wang Bin , Liu Dianzi , Qian Zhenghua
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Quantitatively detecting surface defects in a circular annulus with high levels of accuracy and efficiency has been paid more attention by researchers. The purpose of this study is to investigate the theoretical dispersion equations for circumferential guided waves and then develop an efficient technique for accurate reconstruction of defects in pipes.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology applied to determine defects in pipelines includes four steps. First, the theoretical work is carried out by developing the appropriate dispersion equations for circumferential guided waves in a pipe. In this phase, formulations of strain-displacement relations are derived in a general equidistant surface coordinate. Following that, a semi-analytical finite element method (SAFEM) is applied to solve the dispersion equations. Then, the scattered fields in a circular annulus are calculated using the developed hybrid finite element method and simulation results are in accord with the law of conservation of energy. Finally, the quantitative detection of Fourier transform (QDFT) approach is further enhanced to efficiently reconstruct the defects in the circular annuli, which have been widely used for engineering applications.

Findings

Results obtained from four numerical examples of flaw detection problems demonstrate the correctness of the developed QDFT approach in terms of accuracy and efficiency. Reconstruction of circumferential surface defects using the extended QDFT method can be performed without involving the analytical formulations. Therefore, the streamlined process of inspecting surface defects is well established and this leads to the reduced time in practical engineering tests.

Originality/value

In this paper, the general dispersion equations for circumferential ultrasonic guided waves have been derived using an equidistant surface coordinate and solved by the SAFEM technique to discover the relationship between wavenumber of a wave and its frequency. To reconstruct defects with high levels of accuracy and efficiency, the QDFT approach has been further enhanced to inspect defects in the annular structure.
Employer-oriented personal branding: methods and skills for Indian business school students
Authors: Kushal Shweta , Nargundkar Rajendra
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to provide a framework of methods and skills for employer-oriented personal branding among business school students to create an effective digital curriculum vitae for employment and to test the students' awareness of personal branding techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

This was a mixed methods study which followed an exploratory model, where the findings of the qualitative first stage helped develop the hypotheses for the second (quantitative) stage of the study. The rich detailed data collected from the qualitative phase were used to develop the instrument for stage 2. Responses based on Likert scale were used in stage 2 to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The study tested hypotheses relating to personal branding, demonstrating that most of the skills and methods studied are held in high esteem by business school students. The study clearly establishes that these students possess a high degree of awareness about the need for employer-oriented personal branding and use various methods and skills to build their brand, validating our hypotheses.

Research limitations/implications

This study focused only on two top-tier Indian business school students. A larger and more inclusive study in other emerging market nations may validate its findings. Students from non-business disciplines could be studied to find out differences in approaches to employer-oriented self-branding.

Practical implications

Students may be able to brand themselves better through the use of the methods and skills tested in this study. Within the business schools, faculty mentors can use this methodology to support students in further consolidation of their brand with the help of social media profiles such as LinkedIn, Facebook and others. The skills learnt in the business school will stand the student in good stead, and the company will benefit from their personal branding efforts translating into commercial benefits for the firm.

Originality/value

This paper provides a structured approach towards employer-oriented personal branding of students, missing in earlier studies.
The effect of CSR engagement on eWOM on social media
Authors: Fatma Mobin , Ruiz Andrea Perez , Khan Imran , Rahman Zillur
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine how banks’ level of corporate social responsibility (CSR) engagement influences consumers’ electronic word-of-mouth (eWOM) on Facebook. Furthermore, this study examines the mediating role of consumer identification with a company (C-C identification) in the relationship between CSR engagement and eWOM in online communications.

Design/methodology/approach

Indian banks have been taken as a study context. The data were collected online from July to August 2018, resulting in 239 valid surveys. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling via AMOS 22.0.

Findings

The findings in the present study suggest that CSR communication on social networking sites engages consumers and also helps them to identify with the companies and increase their eWOM intentions. Based on this finding, the authors suggest that managers should communicate about CSR engagement on social media to favourably influence identification and eWOM.

Practical implications

The result highlights the opportunities brought by new technology such as online social media to the service industry.

Originality/value

The present study contributes to the literature by enriching the understanding of how CSR engagement influences eWOM on social media. Of theoretical concern, this study connects the social identity perspective to CSR in the online context, something not previously explored.
Exploring the impact of urbanization on consumer goods distribution networks
Authors: Kellner Florian
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Due to the growing percentage share of urban dwellers, the physical distribution of products faces altering conditions. This research explores the effects that urbanization has on the performance of a fast-moving consumer goods distribution network. A focus is set on changes in distribution cost, the cost-minimal network design, and greenhouse gas emissions.

Design/methodology/approach

The analyses are based on a quantitative distribution network model of an existing manufacturer of consumer goods.

Findings

The results indicate that the foreseen population shift will affect the network's economic and environmental performance. Effects are, among others, due to differences in the efficiency of supplying urban and nonurban regions. The combined effects of urbanization and the development of the population size will even more affect the network's performance.

Originality/value

Research dealing with distribution logistics and urbanization primarily focuses on city logistics. In this paper, the object of analysis is the entire distribution system.
People with an intellectual disability: under-reporting sexual violence
Authors: Willott Sara , Badger Wendy , Evans Vicky
Published: February 2020

Purpose

People with an intellectual disability are much more likely to be sexually violated and the violation is less likely to be reported. Despite this being high-lighted at least 3 decades ago and improvements in both safeguarding and national reporting processes, under-reporting remains a problem. This paper explored under-reporting alongside prevention possibilities using safeguarding alerts raised in a Community Learning Disability Team within a UK NHS trust.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a combination of authentic but anonymised case vignettes and descriptive data drawn from the safeguarding team, under-reporting was examined through the lens of an ecological model. Safeguarding alerts raised in a particular year were compared with the number expected if all (estimated) cases of abuse were disclosed and reported.

Findings

Only 4.4 per cent of expected abuse cases were reported to the team, which is lower than the reporting level the authors had expected from the literature. There is evidence in the literature of the under-reporting of sexual assault for all kinds of people. Arguably, the implications of under-reporting for PwID are even more traumatic.

Research limitations/implications

Constraints included the lack of standardisation in data collection within the statutory services that report to the Birmingham Safeguarding Adults Board. One key recommendation is that the national provider of data for the NHS in the UK requires more complex and standardised audit information that would allow each local authority to benchmark their practice against a higher protection standard. Another recommendation is that compliance to quality standards sits within a comprehensive strategy.

Originality/value

This paper explored the extent to which the previously documented under-reporting concern remains an issue. Certainly eye-balling safeguarding compliance data in the NHS organisation we worked in led us to a concern that reporting might be even lower than implied in the literature. This together with a renewed spot-light on sexual violence (e.g, NHS England, 2018) led us to decide that it was timely to re-examine the problem.
The concept of intelligent agent in business interactions: is virtual assistant an actor or a boundary object?
Authors: Kot Mateusz Tomasz , Leszczyński Grzegorz
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Interactions are fundamental for successful relationships and stable cooperation in a business-to-business market. The main assumption in research on interactions, so obvious that usually not stated by researchers, is that they are set between humans. The development of artificial intelligence forces the re-examination of this assumption. This paper aims to conceptualize business virtual assistants (BVAs), a type of intelligent agent, as either a boundary object or an actor within business interactions.

Design/methodology/approach

Reference is made to the literature on business interactions, boundary objects and identity attribution to problematize the process of interpretation through which BVA obtains an identity. The ARA model and the model of interaction process is used to create a theoretical framework.

Findings

This paper contributes to the literature on business interactions, and to the core of the IMP discussion, in three aspects. The first provides a framework to understand the phenomenon of an artificial entity as an interlocutor in business interactions. While doing that a new type of entity, BVA, is introduced. The second contribution is the exploration and augmentation of the concept of a business actor. The third calls attention to BVA as a boundary object. These issues are seen as essential to move forward the discussion about the meaning of business interaction in the near future.

Originality/value

This paper conceptualizes the presence of a new entity – BVA – in the business landscape.
Progress in wireless technologies in hospitality and tourism
Authors: Navio-Marco Julio , Ruiz-Gómez Luis M. , Sevilla-Sevilla Claudia
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to critically review the progression of wireless technologies in tourism and hospitality since 2000. Wireless technologies are a set of information and communications technologies (ICTs) involving radio transmission (such as mobile or satellite technologies) that are extensively used in tourism and hospitality, but which have not yet been studied comprehensively.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is a mixed methods review combining a quantitative and qualitative approach and including a systematic review of the academic literature since 2000.

Findings

Contrary to the prevailing focus of study on mobile technologies, the authors open the field to other technologies (such as Zigbee or Bluetooth), and in a particular highlight, the large role played by satellite technology in tourism and how this is reflected in the literature. In literature reviews linking tourism and ICTs, the authors find that excluding some journals may leave out notable aspects for any systematic analysis. Moreover, the study highlights the importance of wireless technologies in a sensor-based convergence between the physical and digital worlds.

Originality/value

The contribution is mainly twofold: first, the authors develop the literature on tourism with a better understanding of the role played by these technologies in supporting tourism and hospitality, by updating sources and research work; second, the authors take a holistic, all-encompassing approach, providing a truly comprehensive view of the literature on tourism and ICTs, in which wireless technologies have always been approached with fragmented or limited scope, lacking a view in the round.
Resisting global universalistic practices: the endurance of culture and particularism in African HRM
Authors: Hack-Polay Dieu , Opute John , Rahman Mahfuzur
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This article empirically assesses the extent to which factors rooted in the cultural and institutional framework in sub-Saharan African organisational contexts challenge and resist the penetration of global practices and how these dynamics impact on human resource management (HRM). This article examines whether universalistic perspectives are significant for African HRM. The article discusses the tensions between the contributions derived from local and historical factors and that of other environmental agents to African HRM practice.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on a survey among 100 practising African HRM executives representing significant organisations in sub-Saharan Africa.

Findings

The main findings established that in spite of westernisation and globalising trends in learning and development in Africa, human resource practices are still profoundly embedded in the African cultural fabric. Significant elements of cultures in sub-Saharan Africa pervade organisational processes; such aspects include collectivism and paternalism, which persistently resist change. The article, however, concludes that the resisting parts of sub-Saharan African cultures which are viewed as counterproductive can have positive resonance if constructively deployed.

Originality/value

This article contributes to African HRM literature, a significantly under-researched field. The paper provides an opportunity for African HR managers to be more pragmatic in identifying the contextual issues and aspects of African culture that could be value-adding in a fast-changing managerial field. The findings demonstrate that human resource strategies and policies have specific cultural orientations and reflect the societal predispositions of a particular collectivity; this epitomizes the intertwining of cultural paradigms, political spheres and organisational life in sub-Saharan Africa.
Analyzing the trade transportation and its demand on multimodal transportation system between China and Koreas
Authors: Wu Shanhua , Sun Yu , Yang Zhongzhen
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to understand the trade transportation situation between China and Koreas, and to explore the possibility of establishing the surface transportation corridor between China and Koreas in the future. Moreover, the paper also intends to find out the mode choice behaviors of shippers, which can be used to analyze the substitute effects of the surface modes on the water one.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first analyzes the Sino-Korean bilateral trade and the corresponding trade transportation between China and Koreas. Secondly, it presents the surface transportation network between China and Koreas, and analyzes the warming relations between the North and South. Finally, the modal split of trade transportation between China and Koreas is estimated by establishing a mode choice model based on a questionnaire survey.

Findings

With the increasingly stable political environment and the physical highway and railway connections, the surface transportation network would become possible. Moreover, the shippers need the multimodal transportation system between China and Koreas, and many shippers would select road or rail mode if a suitable road or rail network were available. Especially, between China and South Korea, the road, rail and water mode may be used evenly, while the road mode may play a more important role between China and North Korea. The surface modes would have a huge substitute effect on the water mode.

Originality/value

The existing literature conducted research mainly from the perspective of economy and geopolitics, while the topics of transportation between China and Koreas are rarely concerned. This paper intends to throw some light on the situation of the trade transportation between China and Koreas, consider the potential of relation improvement on the Korean Peninsula proactively and study the surface transportation issues between China and Koreas.
Intellectual capital and performance in temporary teams
Authors: Massaro Maurizio , Mas Francesca Dal , Bontis Nick , Gerrard Bill
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to deepen resource-based view theory by analyzing how intellectual capital (IC) affects performance in temporary teams and by showing the moderating role of integrative mechanisms.

Design/methodology/approach

The research context focuses on 153 national teams of football (NTF), also referred to as national soccer teams, as an example of temporary groups. A partial least squares (PLS) methodology was utilized on a data set built from transfermarkt.com and FIFA world rankings. Three main hypotheses were developed and tested using first a PLS and then an OLS approach.

Findings

The results show how IC contributes to performance, extending the findings of previous studies to the context of temporary teams. Additionally, the results show how some integrative mechanisms such as assembly decisions and team leader experience influence temporary team performance by creating an interaction effect with existing IC.

Originality/value

This study contributes to IC theories for three reasons. First, it applies IC research to a specific research context: temporary teams, where specific organizational capabilities are required to coordinate resources. Second, the study analyzes the role of integrative mechanisms as moderators of the relationship between IC and performance in temporary teams. Third, the study focuses on NTF as an example of temporary teams.
An application of the instrumental-symbolic framework in Maritime industry
Authors: Rai Alka
Published: February 2020

Purpose

To deal with the agenda of extensive research to establish employer branding as a valuable Human Resource (HR) practice, this study aims to examine perception of seafarer to explore the attributes related with employer branding in maritime industry. This study intends to explore the applicability of instrumental-symbolic framework of employer branding in maritime industry to understand the dimensions related with attractiveness of seafarers’ jobs.

Design/methodology/approach

Sample of the study is Indian seafarers include only officers from both deck and engine. Total 276 usable responses were considered at the end for data analysis.

Findings

Both, the instrumental and symbolic attributes explained significant variance in predicting attractiveness of seafarers’ occupation, thus supporting hypotheses 1 and 2. In particular, among instrumental dimensions, social/team activities, structure, advancement, travel opportunities and pay and benefits positively predicted seafarers’ attraction towards their job. As symbolic dimension, sincerity, competence and prestige was positively related, and ruggedness was negatively related to attractiveness of the present job among seafarers.

Practical implications

Overall, the present findings ascertain the utility of the framework as a conceptualization of employer brands and support the applicability of instrumental-symbolic framework for understanding the dimensions of occupational attractiveness in different context and culture, i.e. Indian Seafarers.

Originality/value

Although the popularity of employer branding is growing amongst human resources practitioners, but still, there is dearth of academic (mainly empirical research) literature on the subject, `appeals to management researchers (Cable and Turban, 2001; Backhaus and Tikoo, 2004, Edwards, 2009; alniacik and alniacik, 2012; Kucherov and Zavyalova, 2012). With this in consideration and to deal with the agenda of extensive research to establish employer branding as a valuable HR practice, the present study examines perception of seafarer to explore the attributes related with employer branding in maritime industry.
Vegan stories: revealing archetypes and their moral foundations
Authors: Napoli Julie , Ouschan Robyn
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aims to identify the archetypes, moral foundations and plots associated with veganism through the stories told by vegan bloggers and the effect on mainstreaming of this ideology.

Design/methodology/approach

Narrative data was collected from 15 publicly available vegan blogs. Underlying archetypes, morals and story plots were identified and presented as a “story re-told,” highlighting the context and content of what was being said by the protagonists and associated meanings.

Findings

The analysis revealed three moral foundations on which vegan ideology is built: sanctity of life, enacting the authentic self and freedom. A universal hero archetype was also unearthed; however, the moral orientation of the storyteller (agency vs communal) dictated how these morals and archetypes were expressed.

Research limitations/implications

Through the use of common story archetypes, master plots and moral foundations, a deeper understanding of vegans and the choices they make is facilitated, thus making vegan ideology appear less threatening. Storytelling plays an important role in establishing connections through commonality.

Originality/value

This study applies cultivation theory, storytelling analysis and archetype theory to reveal how vegan bloggers counteract mass media cultivation of vegan stereotypes through the stories they tell. We offer a more robust description of vegans, moving beyond stereotypes, and the morals driving behavior. Moreover, a unique mechanism of mainstreaming is exposed that shows vegans connect with people by tapping into universal archetypes and morals that anyone can relate to and relive.
Effects of perceived role clarity on innovative work behavior: a multiple mediation model
Authors: Kundu Subhash C. , Kumar Sandeep , Lata Kusum
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to assess the effect of perceived role clarity on innovative work behavior (IWB) through the mediation of intrinsic motivation and job involvement.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were gathered from 613 employees belonging to 196 organizations operating in India. Data were analyzed using statistical tools such as exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis, multiple regressions and bootstrapping via PROCESS.

Findings

Initially, the results of correlation and multiple regression analyses indicated that the perceived role clarity has positive relation with intrinsic motivation, job involvement and IWB. Further, bootstrap analysis revealed that intrinsic motivation and job involvement individually and serially mediate the effect of perceived role clarity on IWB.

Research limitations/implications

The study highlights the importance of the perceived role clarity in developing positive work attitudes and innovative behavior among employees. Self-reported survey and cross-sectional design are the limitations of the current study.

Practical implications

The study suggests that organizations should strive constantly to enhance perceptions of role clarity among employees so that they remain motivated and involved in their jobs and exhibit innovative behavior at work.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the only study to test the impact of perceived role clarity on IWB with the serial mediation of intrinsic motivation and job involvement.
Behavioral agent-based framework for interacting financial markets
Authors: M. Ezzat Heba
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims at developing a behavioral agent-based model for interacting financial markets. Additionally, the effect of imposing Tobin taxes on market dynamics is explored.

Design/methodology/approach

The agent-based approach is followed to capture the highly complex, dynamic nature of financial markets. The model represents the interaction between two different financial markets located in two countries. The artificial markets are populated with heterogeneous, boundedly rational agents. There are two types of agents populating the markets; market makers and traders. Each time step, traders decide on which market to participate in and which trading strategy to follow. Traders can follow technical trading strategy, fundamental trading strategy or abstain from trading. The time-varying weight of each trading strategy depends on the current and past performance of this strategy. However, technical traders are loss-averse, where losses are perceived twice the equivalent gains. Market makers settle asset prices according to the net submitted orders.

Findings

The proposed framework can replicate important stylized facts observed empirically such as bubbles and crashes, excess volatility, clustered volatility, power-law tails, persistent autocorrelation in absolute returns and fractal structure.

Practical implications

Artificial models linking micro to macro behavior facilitate exploring the effect of different fiscal and monetary policies. The results of imposing Tobin taxes indicate that a small levy may raise government revenues without causing market distortion or instability.

Originality/value

This paper proposes a novel approach to explore the effect of loss aversion on the decision-making process in interacting financial markets framework.