bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
C-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) pathway activation is essential for dental papilla cells polarization
Authors: Luo Jiao , Tan Xiujun , Ye Ling , Wang Chenglin
Published: May 2020

During tooth development, dental papilla cells could develop into odontoblasts with polarized morphology and cell function, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) signaling could participate in this process. Histological staining, qPCR and Western Blot shown that activation of JNK signaling in polarized mouse dental papilla tissue.In vitrocell culture and organ culture method found JNK inhibitor SP600125 postponed tooth germ development and reduced the polarization, migration and differentiation of mouse dental papilla cells (mDPCs)in vitro. The expression of polarity-related genes including Prickle3, Golga2, Golga5 and RhoA was consistent with JNK signaling activation, by screening of up-regulated polarity-related genes during the process of dental papilla development and mDPCs or A11 differentiation. Further, constitutively active RhoA mutant (RhoA Q63L) partly rescue the inhibition of SP600125 on cell differentiation and polarity formation of mDPCs. This study suggests that JNK signaling has a positive role in dental papilla cells polarization formation.
Characterization of Stanniocalcin-1 Expression in Macrophage Differentiation
Authors: Leung Cherry CT , Wong Chris KC
Published: May 2020

Human stanniocalcin-1 (STC1) is a paracrine factor associated with inflammation and carcinogenesis. The role of STC1 in the pro- and anti-inflammatory functions of differentiating macrophage, however, is not clear. In this study, our data showed that PMA treatment induced human leukemia monocytic cells (ThP-1) differentiation to M0 macrophages. The differentiation was accompanied by a significant increase of mRNA expression levels of STC1, the pro-inflammatory cytokine TNFα, and anti-inflammatory markers, CD163 & CD206. An intermitted removal of PMA treatment reduced the mRNA levels of STC1 and TNFα but had no noticeable effects on the anti-inflammatory markers. The correlation in the expression of STC1 and pro-inflammatory markers in differentiating macrophages was investigated, using siRNASTC1-transfected PMA-induced cells. Consistently, the transcripts levels of TNFα and IL-6 were significantly reduced. Moreover, LPS/IFNγ-induced M1-polarization showed remarkably higher expression levels of STC1 than IL-4/IL-13-induced M2-macrophages and PMA-induced M0-macrophages. Transcriptomic analysis of siRNASTC1-transfected M1-polarized cells revealed an upregulation of TBC1 domain family member 3 (TBC1D3G). The gene regulates the payload of macrophage-released extracellular vesicles to mediate inflammation. The conditioned media from siRNASTC1-transfected M1-polarized cells were found to reduce Hep3B cell motility. The data suggest that the expression of STC1 were associated with macrophage differentiation, but preferentially to M1 polarization.
Single caudate neurons encode temporally discounted value for formulating motivation for action
Authors: Hori Yukiko , Mimura Koki , Nagai Yuji , Fujimoto Atsushi , Oyama Kei , Kikuchi Erika , Inoue Ken-ichi , Takada Masahiko , Suhara Tetsuya , Richmond Barry J. , Minamimoto Takafumi
Published: May 2020

The term ‘temporal discounting’ describes both choice preferences and motivation for delayed rewards. Here we show that neuronal activity in the dorsal part of the primate caudate head (dCDh) signals the temporally discounted value needed to compute the motivation for delayed rewards. Macaque monkeys performed an instrumental task, in which visual cues indicated the forthcoming size and delay duration before reward. Single dCDh neurons represented the temporally discounted value without reflecting changes in the animal’s physiological state. Bilateral pharmacological or chemogenetic inactivation of dCDh markedly distorted the normal task performance based on the integration of reward size and delay, but did not affect the task performance for different reward sizes without delay. These results suggest that dCDh is involved in encoding the integrated multidimensional information critical for motivation.
Downregulation of E-cadherin in pluripotent stem cells triggers partial EMT
Authors: Aban C. , Lombardi A. , Neiman G. , Biani M.C. , La Greca A. , Waisman A. , Moro L.N. , Sevlever G. , Miriuka S. , Luzzani C.
Published: May 2020

Epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a critical cellular process that has been well characterized during embryonic development and cancer metastasis and it also is implicated in several physiological and pathological events including embryonic stem cell differentiation. During early stages of differentiation, human embryonic stem cells pass through EMT where deeper morphological, molecular and biochemical changes occur. Though initially considered as a decision between two states, EMT process is now regarded as a fluid transition where cells exist on a spectrum of intermediate states. In this work, using a CRISPR interference system in human embryonic stem cells, we describe a molecular characterization of the effects of downregulation of E-cadherin, one of the main initiation events of EMT, as a unique start signal. Our results suggest that the decrease and delocalization of E-cadherin causes an incomplete EMT where cells retain their undifferentiated state while expressing several characteristics of a mesenchymal-like pheno-type. Namely, we found that E-cadherin downregulation inducesSNAI1andSNAI2upregulation, promotesMALAT1andLINC-RORdownregulation, modulates the expression of tight junction occludin 1 and gap junction connexin 43, increases human embryonic stem cells migratory capacity and delocalize b-catenin. Altogether, we believe our results provide a useful tool to model the molecular events of an unstable intermediate state and further identify multiple layers of molecular changes that occur during partial EMT.
Structural basis for translational shutdown and immune evasion by the Nsp1 protein of SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Thoms Matthias , Buschauer Robert , Ameismeier Michael , Koepke Lennart , Denk Timo , Hirschenberger Maximilian , Kratzat Hanna , Hayn Manuel , Mackens-Kiani Timur , Cheng Jingdong , Stürzel Christina M. , Fröhlich Thomas , Berninghausen Otto , Becker Thomas , Kirchhoff Frank , Sparrer Konstantin M.J. , Beckmann Roland
Published: May 2020

SARS-CoV-2 is the causative agent of the current COVID-19 pandemic. A major virulence factor of SARS-CoVs is the nonstructural protein 1 (Nsp1) which suppresses host gene expression by ribosome association via an unknown mechanism. Here, we show that Nsp1 from SARS-CoV-2 binds to 40S and 80S ribosomes, resulting in shutdown of capped mRNA translation bothin vitroand in cells. Structural analysis by cryo-electron microscopy (cryo-EM) ofin vitroreconstituted Nsp1-40S and of native human Nsp1-ribosome complexes revealed that the Nsp1 C-terminus binds to and obstructs the mRNA entry tunnel. Thereby, Nsp1 effectively blocks RIG-I-dependent innate immune responses that would otherwise facilitate clearance of the infection. Thus, the structural characterization of the inhibitory mechanism of Nsp1 may aid structure-based drug design against SARS-CoV-2.
Cell type-specific effects of isoflurane on two distinct afferent inputs to cortical layer 1
Authors: Murphy Caitlin A. , Banks Matthew I.
Published: May 2020

Background

While their behavioral effects are well-characterized, the mechanisms by which anaesthetics induce loss of consciousness are largely unknown. Anaesthetics may disrupt integration and propagation of information in corticothalamic networks. Recent studies have shown that isoflurane diminishes synaptic responses of thalamocortical (TC) and corticocortical (CC) afferents in a pathway-specific manner. However, whether the synaptic effects of isoflurane observed in extracellular recordings persist at the cellular level has yet to be explored.

Methods

Here, we activate TC and CC layer 1 inputs in non-primary mouse neocortex inex vivobrain slices and explore the degree to which isoflurane modulates synaptic responses in pyramidal cells and in two inhibitory cell populations, somatostatin-positive (SOM+) and parvalbumin-positive (PV+) interneurons.

Results

We show that the effects of isoflurane on synaptic responses and intrinsic properties of these cells varies among cell type and by cortical layer. Layer 1 inputs to L4 pyramidal cells were suppressed by isoflurane at both TC and CC synapses, while those to L2/3 pyramidal cells and PV+ interneurons were not. TC inputs to SOM+ cells were rarely observed at all, while CC inputs to SOM+ interneurons were robustly suppressed by isoflurane.

Conclusions

These results suggest a mechanism by which isoflurane disrupts integration and propagation of thalamocortical and intracortical signals.
A passive hutch-cooling system for achieving high thermal-stability operation at the Nanoprobe beamline, Diamond Light Source
Authors: Cacho-Nerin Fernando , Parker Julia E. , Quinn Paul D.
Published: May 2020

The development of low-emittance storage rings and the rapid developments in nano-optics and imaging techniques are leading to decreasing X-ray spot sizes and increasing requirements on the environmental and mechanical stability of beamline components. In particular, temperature stability in the experimental hutches is critical to minimize uncontrolled displacements caused by thermal expansion and ensure consistent performance. Here, the design and thermal performance of the experimental hutches of the Nanoprobe beamline at Diamond Light Source are described, where a standard deviation of the room temperature down to 0.017°C over extended periods is demonstrated. The rooms are kept at constant temperature using water-cooled radiant panels which line the ceiling and walls. Radiant panels are relatively common in high-end electron microscopy rooms, but this is the first demonstration of their use for fine temperature control in an X-ray hutch and may provide a useful basis for future upgrades at upcoming low-emittance sources.
Solid/liquid-interface-dependent synthesis and immobilization of copper-based particles nucleated by X-ray-radiolysis-induced photochemical reaction
Authors: Yamaguchi Akinobu , Sakurai Ikuya , Okada Ikuo , Izumi Hirokazu , Ishihara Mari , Fukuoka Takao , Suzuki Satoru , Utsumi Yuichi
Published: May 2020

X-ray-radiolysis-induced photochemical reaction of a liquid solution enables the direct synthesis and immobilization of nano/micro-scale particles and their aggregates onto a desired area. As is well known, the synthesis, growth and aggregation are dependent on the pH, additives and X-ray irradiation conditions. In this study, it was found that the topography and composition of synthesized particles are also dependent on the types of substrate dipped in an aqueous solution of Cu(COOCH3)2 in the X-ray-radiolysis-induced photochemical reaction. These results are attributed to the fact that a secondary electron induced by the X-ray irradiation, surface or interface on which the particles are nucleated and grown influences the particle shape and composition. This study will shed light on understanding a novel photochemical reaction route induced under X-ray irradiation. The development of this process using the X-ray-radiolysis-induced photochemical reaction in aqueous liquids enables us to achieve the rapid and easy operation of the synthesis, growth and immobilization of special nano/micro-scale complex materials or multifunctional composites.
In situ synthesis, crystal structures, topology and photoluminescent properties of poly[di-μ-aqua-diaqua[μ3-4-(1H-tetrazol-1-id-5-yl)benzoato-κ4
O:O,O′:O′′]barium(II)] and poly[μ-aqua-diaqua[μ3-4-(1H-tetrazol-1-id-5-yl)benzoato-κ4
O:O,O′:O′]strontium(II)]
Authors: Bensegueni Mohamed Abdellatif , Cherouana Aouatef , Merazig Hocine
Published: May 2020

Two alkaline-earth coordination compounds, [Ba(C8H4N4O2)(H2O)4]
n
, (I), and [Sr(C8H4N4O2)(H2O)3]
n
, (II), from the one-pot hydrolysis transformation of benzoyl chloride and the in situ self-assembled [2 + 3] cycloaddition of nitrile are presented. These coordination compounds are prepared by reacting 4-cyanobenzoyl chloride with divalent alkaline-earth salts (BaCl2 and SrCl2) in aqueous solution under hydrothermal conditions. The mononuclear coordination compounds (I) and (II) show the same mode of coordination of the organic ligands. The cohesion of the crystalline structures is provided by hydrogen bonds and π-stacking interactions, thus forming three-dimensional supramolecular networks. The two compounds have a three-dimensional (3,6)-connected topology, and the structural differences between them is in the number of water molecules around the alkaline earth metals. Having the same emission frequencies, the compounds exhibit photoluminescence properties with a downward absorption value from (I) to (II).
Crystal structure, Hirshfeld surface analysis and computational study of the 1:2 co-crystal formed between N,N′-bis[(pyridin-4-yl)methyl]ethanediamide and 3-chlorobenzoic acid
Authors: Tan Sang Loon , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: May 2020

The asymmetric unit of the title 1:2 co-crystal, C14H14N4O2·2C7H5ClO2, comprises a half-molecule of oxalamide (4
LH2), being located about a centre of inversion, and a molecule of3-chlorobenzoic acid (3-ClBA) in a general position. From symmetry, the 4
LH2 molecule has a (+)antiperiplanar conformation with the 4-pyridyl residues lying to either side of the central, planar C2N2O2 chromophore with the dihedral angle between the core and pyridyl ring being 74.69 (11)°; intramolecular amide-N—H...O(amide) hydrogen bonds are noted. The 3-ClBA molecule exhibits a small twist as seen in the C6/CO2 dihedral angle of 8.731 (12)°. In the molecular packing, three-molecule aggregates are formed via carboxylic acid-O—H...N(pyridyl) hydrogen bonding. These are connected into a supramolecular tape along [111] through amide-N—H...O(carbonyl) hydrogen bonding. Additional points of contact between molecules include pyridyl and benzoic acid-C—H...O(amide), methylene-C—H...O(carbonyl) and C—Cl...π(pyridyl) interactions so a three-dimensional architecture results. The contributions to the calculated Hirshfeld surface are dominated by H...H (28.5%), H...O/O...H (23.2%), H...C/C...H (23.3%), H...Cl/Cl...H (10.0%) and C...Cl/C...Cl (6.2%) contacts. Computational chemistry confirms the C—Cl...π interaction is weak, and the importance of both electrostatic and dispersion terms in sustaining the molecular packing despite the strong electrostatic term provided by the carboxylic acid-O—H...N(pyridyl) hydrogen bonds.
Preparation and properties of the anodized film on Fe-Cr-Al alloy surface
Authors: Yang Jialin , Guo Yunting , Zai Wei , Ma Siyuan , Dong Liang , Li Guangyu
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to find a way to improve the surface insulation, corrosion resistance and mechanical properties of Fe-Cr-Al electrothermal alloy, exploring the best oxidation condition and analyzing the oxidation mechanism.

Design/methodology/approach

Electrochemical workstation was used for anodic oxidation, and the effect of current density, ethylene glycol concentration and oxidation time on properties of the film were investigated by resistivity test, scanning electron microscope, electrochemical tests (potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy) and mechanical tests, and the oxidation process was analyzed by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).

Findings

According to the potential-time curves of anodic oxidation and the analysis of XPS, the whole oxidation process can be divided into four stages. When the current density is 0.8 A/dm2, the ethylene glycol concentration is 10%, and the oxidation time is 60 min, the film has the best corrosion protection, mechanical properties and surface morphology. The resistivity of the samples is about 13 orders magnitude than that of the matrix.

Originality/value

In this paper, a protective electrically insulating film was prepared by anodic oxidation in an alkaline electrolyte solution. The oxidation conditions were optimized and the oxidation mechanism was analyzed.
Propulsive modelling for JT9D-3, JT15D-4C and TF-30 turbofan engines using particle swarm optimization
Authors: Oruc Ridvan , Baklacioglu Tolga
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create high-accuracy thrust modelling for cruise flight using particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm.

Design/methodology/approach

In this study, using PSO, new thrust models with high accuracy for the cruise flight stages of Pratt & Whitney JT9D-3, JT15D-4C and TF-30 engines were created. For this aim, real Mach number, flight altitude and thrust values taken from the engine manufacturers were used. In the model, thrust is given as a function of altitude and Mach number. The sensitivity of the results given by the PSO thrust model has been examined using several different error types. Finally, the effect of some PSO parameters on the created models is examined.

Findings

It was observed that the model created predicted real thrust values with high precision.

Practical implications

The PSO thrust model can be used in the trajectory estimates of today’s aircraft with the use of accurate scaling factors. In addition, using the developed PSO thrust model together with a correct aerodynamic model provides more effective management of air traffic flow in air traffic management applications. Combining the PSO model with fuel flow-rate models will significantly increase engine efficiency and performance; thus, making a major contribution to reducing engine emissions.

Originality/value

The originality of this study is that it is the first thrust modelling made with PSO in the literature for turbofan engines. The use of real data in the study and the creation of models for several different turbofan engines are important for the reliability of thrust models.
Detection threshold of chocolate graininess: machine vs human
Authors: De Pelsmaeker Sara , Behra Juliette S. , Gellynck Xavier , Schouteten Joachim J.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Literature indicates that those solid chocolate particles cannot be detected by human beings that are smaller than a critical value between 25 and 35 µm. Chocolate containing particles larger than this range is thought to be perceived as grainy. However, there does not seem to be any publication which justifies this threshold. Hence, the main aim of this work is to determine if the threshold at which particles can be detected is indeed 30 µm.

Design/methodology/approach

Three dark chocolates containing solid particles of expected Dv,90 of 30 µm, 40 µm and 50 µm were produced. Particle Size Distribution (PSD) was determined using static light scattering while hardness and melting behaviour were characterised using a penetration test and Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), respectively. Sensory analyses were performed with a trained panel (n = 9).

Findings

PSD analyses indicated that the solid particle Dv,90 of the three chocolates were around 30 µm, 40 µm and 60 µm, respectively. DSC measurements showed no significant difference in melting behaviour between the chocolates. Hardness measurements showed that the “30 µm chocolate” was significantly harder than both the “40 µm chocolate” and the “60 µm chocolate”, while trained panellists found that the graininess of the 60 µm chocolate was significantly higher than that of the 40 µm and 30 µm chocolates.

Practical implications

These results suggest that particle size detection threshold is higher than 40 µm. Chocolate manufacturers could thus increase the size of the biggest particles from 30 µm to 40 µm, leading to a decrease in production cost.

Originality/value

This is the first study to examine the particle detection limit of chocolate.
Consumer exposure to warmed-over flavour and their attitudes towards the use of natural antioxidants as preservatives in meat and meat products
Authors: Lungu Nobuhle Sharon , Afolayan Anthony Jide , Thomas Ronald Sylvester , Idamokoro Emrobowansan Monday
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The objective of the study was to assess consumer exposure to warmed-over flavour, their eating habits with respect to pre-cooked stored meats, awareness of antioxidants and attitudes towards the use of natural antioxidants as preservatives in meat and meat products.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 238 Check-All-That-Apply (CATA) design questionnaires were used to gather information from the University of Fort Hare community in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa.

Findings

The majority of the respondents had been exposed to warmed-over flavour before. More than half of the respondents did not know about antioxidants. Respondents were in support of the use of natural antioxidants in meat and meat products.

Research limitations/implications

The study mainly captured consumer habits based on living arrangements. Age influence could not be extrapolated due to the nature of the population, which was being studied. The population was limited to the University community, which is mainly made up of not so widely spread age groups and more or less similar levels of education. As a result, the findings and conclusions may not be a true reflection of the general public consumers in terms of age, level of education and employment status.

Originality/value

This research presents an original insight into consumer habits concerning the purchasing and storage of pre-cooked meat and meat products. The study revealed that most consumers nowadays prefer ready-to-eat or pre-cooked meat and meat products due to convenience. The warmed-over flavour is common in pre-cooked meats. The findings suggests that the meat industry has to improve the shelf-life of pre-cooked foods such that warmed-over flavour development is delayed to fit into the current consumer habits. In recent years there has been a growing interest in the use of natural antioxidants to improve shelf-life of muscle foods. However, there is a dearth of information on consumer attitudes towards the use of natural antioxidants as preservatives. This study reveals that consumers are willing to try products formulated using natural antioxidants.
Promoting School’s Recovery and Resilience after the Chi-Chi earthquake
Authors: Wang Jieh-Jiuh
Published: May 2020

Purpose

In the current study, the researchers tracked the steps that were taken (in the past 20 years after the occurrence of the 921 earthquake) to enhance the safety of students and teachers on campus by rebuilding the schools according to higher standards. Additionally, the researchers analyzed the process of school reconstruction in Taiwan after the Chi-Chi earthquake, as well as the resilience of the rebuilt schools.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper collected extensive relevant literature to serve as a basis for data analysis. Subsequently, they examined the conditions of selected schools before and after they were affected by the earthquake, as well as the reconstruction process of these schools. The purposive sampling method was also adopted to assemble a unique and representative sample.

Findings

This study concluded a new disaster risk reduction education system in Taiwan, from safe learning facilities, school disaster management and risk reduction and resilience education perspectives. It encouraged school and community collaboration regarding establishing a comprehensive disaster management framework.

Originality/value

The paper kept tracks of how schools recovered and restored after the 921 earthquake based on global disaster management trends and local disaster risk reduction education. It also highlighted the major changes within the school resilience system and the importance of disaster risk reduction education in Taiwan.
Value co-creation and technological progression: a critical review
Authors: Zhang Tingting , Lu Can , Torres Edwin , Cobanoglu Cihan
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to identify different approaches to conceptualize value co-creation and analysing firms’ co-creation strategies aided by various advancing technologies. This study further discusses the strengths and weaknesses of these strategies and suggests solutions to overcome the limitations.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a critical literature review, the authors propose a conceptual framework to denote the relations between evolving technologies and co-creation activities.

Findings

On one hand, technology influences the co-creation processes by empowering consumers, offering greater ability to connect, providing greater access to information and furnishing a platform that facilitates co-creation; on the other hand, technological advancements may add complexity, variability and lead to loss of control for service organizations. A role of customers and value definitions are identified and elaborated in the value co-creation process.

Originality/value

Advanced information and communication technologies transcend the traditionally defined service encounters by enabling co-creating actors to exchange resources through virtual interfaces, thus redefining the strategies of value co-creation. Though many studies have discussed value co-creation in diversified standpoints, a perspective from its relationship with technological progression over time remains nascent. The study contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of technology-enabled value co-creation in service ecosystems.
Internal market orientation adoption and new service development (NSD): gearing up the internal performance of NSD teams
Authors: Gounaris Spiros , Chryssochoidis George , Boukis Achilleas
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This paper reports on the impact of perceived resource adequacy (PRA) and competence (PRC) on new service development (NSD) teams’ internal performance (IP). This study aims to explore the indirect effect of internal market orientation (IMO) adoption, as a dynamic capability, on both PRA and PRC through the shaping of the emerging dynamics within NSD teams.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a hierarchical research design, the authors use a meso-theory approach to test a path-analytic framework against 116 NSD managers (offering data at the macro- or organisational level) and 543 NSD team members (offering data at the micro- or team level).

Findings

Both PRA and PRC are important in explaining NSD teams’ IP at the organisational level, though their explanatory power varies. The adoption of IMO is also an important antecedent to this factor through the (indirect) effect on the team climate and degree of integration.

Research limitations/implications

IMO is an important dynamic capability that allows management to transform the mindset of employees, even if they do not directly interact with customers. In NSD efforts, this reflects on the team’s perceptions of the adequacy of the resources they have to deliver the project through the managerial interventions at the team level, which (mainly) explains the team’s IP.

Practical implications

Adopting an IMO allows the development of a dynamic capability that carries wider benefits for the service organisation, as this has positive implications not just for frontline employees. Specifically, NSD efforts are likely to become more resource-efficient as a result of IMO adoption because of the interventions of management during the development effort.

Originality/value

This empirical study is the first to test the impact of IMO adoption as a dynamic capability and in a context other than frontline employees from a meso-theory perspective. This allows considering the different effects at the appropriate levels (macro and micro), thus enabling a more accurate definition of the mechanism through which companies benefit from IMO adoption.
Addressing the Janus face of customer service: a typology of new age service failures
Authors: Taylor Charles R. , Kitchen Philip J. , Sarkees Matthew E. , Lolk Christian O.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Despite increased emphasis on customer or market orientation over the past several decades, there is considerable evidence that many customer service practices have created a “Janus face” situation in which stated marketing philosophy often differs from practice. This paper aims to explore those issues in marketing practice.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper develops a typology of “new age” practices in customer service that seem to serve to annoy, alienate and even potentially harm consumers. Consumer-coping mechanisms for dealing with such practices are then discussed, arguing that the practices themselves are not in the best long-term interests of the firm. This paper concludes with suggestions for how firms can avoid a “Janus face” situation and better serve today’s educated consumers.

Findings

Too many of today’s ostensibly “marketing”-oriented companies are more concerned with selling and much less concerned with retention or real relationships. Unfortunately, even if companies are doing many things correctly, this does not sound like behavior that should exist in the so-called “marketing era” in the 21st century.

Research limitations/implications

The negative implication of extolling service excellence while delivering the opposite to customers is undesirable. Research that addresses the service challenges that firms face in this fast-changing marketing environment is crucial to advancing academic knowledge.

Practical implications

As marketing moves into 2020 and beyond, it is critical to correct these service issues and problems. Companies cannot really afford to drive away customers in the dynamic age of relationship marketing fueled by rapidly advancing technological change.

Originality/value

This paper presents a typology of “new age” customer service problems.
Training evaluation: a configurational analysis of success and failure of trainers and trainees
Authors: Bernardino Gonçalo , Curado Carla
Published: May 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the formative evaluations of the training programmes of a Portuguese national railway public company for an entire calendar year. The aim is to uncover alternative configurations for the design of training programmes to create better levels of evaluation. This study is based on the following research question: What are the configurations that lead to the success and or failure of trainers and trainees? Among those, are there any common designs that generate the success and or failure of both trainers and trainees?

Design/methodology/approach

This study used matched data from an entire calendar year to examine the trainers and trainees’ evaluations of 429 training events. This study also used a fuzzy-set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to provide configurations that generate the success or failure of trainers and trainees. This methodology offers alternative pathways to the same outcomes and thus gives managers different options to reach similar results.

Findings

The results show that there are more configurations that lead to trainers’ success (five) than to its absence (four). However, the configurations that lead to trainees’ success (three) are less than those that lead to its absence (six). The findings indicate that a single common configuration exists that leads to high evaluations.

Research limitations/implications

This study does not address summative evaluations. Regarding data, the study acknowledges the use of self-evaluations for trainees, although they serve as a proxy for a learning evaluation. The generalisation of the results outside the Portuguese railway company’s context is not possible.

Practical implications

The proposed analysis is applicable to other settings without restrictions. Managers may replicate this study’s approach in their organisations to uncover the alternative configurations that lead to the success or failure of trainers and trainees. They may adopt the ones that lead to successful outcomes and avoid the ones that lead to undesired ones.

Originality/value

This study is innovative because it addresses concurrently the success or failure of trainers and trainees that is only possible by using the fsQCA method. This study opted to use this method to provide alternative pathways to extreme outcomes: the most successful or the most unsuccessful. These multiple pathways are better results compared to traditional quantitative statistical methods that only provide a single estimated solution to the presence of the dependent variable; for example, a regression analysis or structural equation modelling.
Analysing the adoption of cloud computing service: a systematic literature review
Authors: Sharma Mahak , Gupta Ruchita , Acharya Padmanav
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to presents an analysis of geographically and disciplinary scattered academic publications of cloud computing (CC) research in information systems. This review aims to understand the research methodology, research frameworks and models, geographical distribution, trends, critical factors and causal relationships associated with cloud computing adoption (CCA).

Design/methodology/approach

Systematic-literature-review using natural language processing is conducted to explore the phenomenon. The relevant research studies are extracted from various online databases using quality-assessment-criteria.

Findings

The study is a novel attempt to highlight the differences in critical factors for CCA in different country-settings. Further, the research explores the causal relationships among the identified factors. The findings of this 12-year systematic-review contribute by aiding the providers and potential adopters to devise context-specific strategies for the penetration of cloud services and sound adoption decisions (ADs), respectively. The findings also highlight the prospective avenues of research in the domain for researchers. Using the in-depth analysis, conceptual frameworks have been proposed that can assist in exploring the pre-adoption and post-adoption of CC.

Originality/value

This study contributes to CCA research by providing holistic insights into the methodology, research framework and models, geographical focus, critical factors and causal relationships influencing the AD or intention. The review highlights the unexplored emerging research topics in the field of CCA for future research directions.
Cyclone shelters need sustainable development
Authors: Shahin Md. , Billah Maruf , Islam Md. Mozahidul , Parvez Ahmed , Zaman A.K.M. Mostafa
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The coastal zone of Bangladesh that is in the front line of the battle against climate change faced over 200 natural disasters in the past 40 years, and most of the disasters were cyclones. The inevitable cyclone shelter (CS), the backbone of disaster management (DM), provides short-term safety for the disaster victims in Bangladesh. This study aims to explore the community-based limitations and sustainable development features of CSs including the gender issues.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey was carried out among 230 community people to identify the requirements and sustainable development features of CSs. A field visit was carried out in 23 CSs to capture its existing facilities. Key informant interviews were conducted in the office of Upazila Engineers to strengthen survey data.

Findings

This research found that the plan of CSs, quality of construction, capacity, facilities, entrance and exit, space allocation, management and policy were not capable enough to fulfill the needs and requirements of the community people. Due to lack of separate facilities, women and girls avoided shelters for fear of sexual and mental harassment in CSs, as they had experiences in the earlier events of cyclones. Insufficient facilities discourage community from using the shelters.

Research limitations/implications

Women and girls were shy to share their experience in CSs. The historical data were limited in the study area. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research presents the actual community-based outcome. During CCRIP training program, the authors met 3,625 community people, and participatory discussions were made to explore the participants’ experiences and perceptions about the sustainable development of CSs.

Practical implications

South-Asian coastal zones are prone to natural, quasi-natural hazard and disasters, where shelters are required for protecting lives of community people during such disasters such as cyclones, storm surges, and floods. Therefore, this study can help in making sustainable development decisions in terms of constructing shelters in disaster-prone countries like Bangladesh.

Social implications

The outcomes of this investigation are useful for uplifting psychosocial status to protect lives during disasters such as cyclones, storm surges and floods and increase accessibility to shelters, and users will consider CSs as a social asset. In turn, the acceptability of CSs into community level are expected to be increased for combating against cyclones, storm surges, and floods.

Originality/value

This study introduces the bottom-up approach that refers to the community-based decision-making to identify the limitations and sustainable improvement of CSs. This research contributes to bridging the gaps between decision-makers and users of CSs. From the authors’ field experience, it can be said that this is the first fieldwork regarding the objectives.
Use of ethical predictability in respect for human rights in Iranian hospitals with a 360-degree approach
Authors: Malekzadeh Roya , Abedi Ghasem , Abedini Ehsan , Haghgoshayie Elaheh , Hasanpoor Edris , Ghasemi Matina
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Respect for human rights is one of the most important criteria for the delivery of medical care in hospitals. Ethical predictability is useful to identify human rights concerns in health-care organizations. The hospital environment and the flow of its processes make the topic of predictability much more sensitive and, at the same time, more difficult than other organizations. The purpose of this paper is to determine and compare the ethical predictive factors in selected hospitals in Mazandaran province.

Design/methodology/approach

This cross-sectional survey using multilevel sampling (four hospitals, 938 patients, 186 staff) was conducted in the first half of 2017. The measurement instrument was a researcher-made questionnaire consisting of seven areas of service recipients’ rights, patient safety, patient satisfaction, human resources, governance, organizational and financial commitments. The analysis of the collected data was performed through SPSS V. 22 and one-way ANOVA and post hoc Tukey’s tests.

Findings

Ethical predictability was higher in social security hospitals compared to private and public hospitals, and patient safety and patient rights showed higher magnitudes compared to other dimensions. Financial domain, patient satisfaction, governance and organizational commitment formed the middle priorities in ethical predictability, and human resources had the least average in ethical predictability in the selected hospitals in the province.

Originality/value

Identifying the factors which influence ethical predictability, in addition to promoting service recipients’ rights and patient satisfaction, is of great help to the managers and health service authorities, so that they can have a better understanding of these factors and, consequently, make appropriate micro and macro-decisions to provide better services.
Associations between learning environment factors and student satisfaction among occupational therapy students
Authors: Thygesen Hilde , Gramstad Astrid , Åsli Lene A. , Stigen Linda , Magne Trine A. , Carstensen Tove , Bonsaksen Tore
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Student satisfaction is an important indicator of educational quality in higher education institutions. Learning environment factors are assumed to play a role in determining student satisfaction. The purpose of this study is to examine the intrinsic relationships between five learning environment scales embedded within one measure; and examine the associations between each of these scales and an overall measure of education program satisfaction.

Design/methodology/approach

In this cross-sectional study, 175 first-year occupational therapy students in Norway completed sociodemographic information and the Course Experience Questionnaire. The data were analyzed with Pearson’s correlation coefficient r and with linear regression.

Findings

All intrinsic associations between the learning environment scales were positive. In the adjusted analysis, higher education program satisfaction was significantly associated with higher scores on “clear goals and standards,” “emphasis on independence” and “good teaching.” The final model accounted for 45.0% of the outcome variance, of which the scores on the learning environment scales contributed 41.8%.

Originality/value

The learning environment is vital for student satisfaction. More specifically, efforts to improve student satisfaction may include strengthening student-focused teaching, strengthening the autonomy of the students, and ensuring that the goals and standards of courses are clear and easy to understand.
Reappraisal of the political approach on East Asian welfare state development: the case of childcare expansion in South Korea
Authors: Yuda Tauchid Komara
Published: May 2020

Purpose

Political analyses of the East Asian welfare state development often stress the importance of the power resource model, in which vibrant coalitions between the leftist party, interest groups, civil society and working-class unions have become driving factors in producing generous welfare outcomes. Challenging such analyses, this article discusses the convergence of the political attitude between political actors who are increasingly homogeneous (supportive) when it comes to the universal welfare state notion by focussing on childcare in South Korea.

Design/methodology/approach

By using desk review of the peer-reviewed literature and reports, this article investigates the causation for why political parties with different political ideologies were keen on extending childcare programs and its outcome in addressing the existing demographic problems in Korea.

Findings

Although the collective movement, especially in the 1990s and 2000s, had given important contributions to the early development of childcare in South Korea, more breakthroughs in childcare features were precisely and rapidly developed after politicians from different spectrums of political affiliations converged in their supportive attitude of the universal welfare. The driving factors of political convergence itself are not merely due to electoral competition or political activism; furthermore, it can be linked to the increased global institution involvement in domestic policy with extensive permeability, which, have ruined domestic policy development maintained for ideological reasoning and bring in more popular policy setting.

Originality/value

This article contributes to the growing literature on the political aspect of East Asian social policy studies, which goes beyond the traditional power resource analysis and makes a novel contribution to the childcare policy studies.
When brands take a stand: the nature of consumers’ polarized reactions to social narrative videos
Authors: Milfeld Tyler , Flint Daniel J.
Published: May 2020

Purpose

A growing number of consumers expect brands to take a stand on social issues. When Gillette launched its video with a social message in 2019, the popular press described it as divisive and controversial. This study aims to examine themes behind the polarized consumer response, aiding brands in the development of social narrative videos.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use an existential-phenomenological approach to investigate the meaning behind consumers’ reactions to the Gillette video. Empirical data collection consisted of 24 semi-structured, in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using the hermeneutic method.

Findings

By viewing the Gillette video through the lens of a story, this research uncovers how marketing stories can lead to different interpretations. Specifically, the roots of polarization lie in perceived realism activation and character activation. Additionally, product placement may activate persuasive intent, interrupting immersion into the story.

Practical implications

Brand managers should consider the potential for alternative interpretations when using storytelling. By measuring a viewer’s narrative transportation, it is possible to identify different interpretations. From a tactical standpoint, brand managers should be cautious about using celebrity endorsers and prominent product placement in social narrative videos. These cues activate persuasive intent, leading to alternative interpretations.

Originality/value

While marketing research has tended to focus on storytelling’s positive outcomes, this research considers how stories can result in polarizing outcomes for brands. The concept of social narrative videos is introduced and a framework is presented that outlines facilitators and inhibitors for this type of brand communication.
Strategies to mitigate knowledge hiding behavior: building theories from multiple case studies
Authors: Butt Atif Saleem , Ahmad Ahmad Bayiz
Published: May 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how firms can mitigate knowledge hiding behavior among their managers.

Design/methodology/approach

This study employs a multiple case study methodology by studying nine UAE based firms. Furthermore, 26 semi-structured interviews with senior managers are undertaken.

Findings

Based on the qualitative interviews and comprehensive data analysis, results unveil six strategies that firms can opt for in order to mitigate knowledge hiding behavior among managers (reducing chain of command, developing informal interaction among managers, introducing and implementing incentive policy, initiating easy performance appraisal, encouraging higher interdependency among managers and introducing open space work stations).

Research limitations/implications

This study has some limitations. First, the results of this study are not generalizable to a broader population. Second, this study explores behavioral patterns with respect to United Arab Emirates culture only. Second, the results presented in this study should be tested.

Practical implications

Firms can use the findings from this study to understand strategies that can help them to mitigate the knowledge hiding behavior of managers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to knowledge hiding literature by revealing strategies, which discourages knowledge hiding behavior in firms.