bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Aldehyde Dehydrogenase Activator, Alda-1®, on the Ethanol-induced Brain Damage in a Rat of Binge Ethanol Intoxication
Authors: Kim Changsun , Hwang Sejin , Choi Hyuk Joong , Lim Tae Ho , Kang Ju-seop
Published: June 2018

Aims

This study aimed to investigate whether an aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH) activator (Alda-1®) reduces neuronal damage in a rat model of binge ethanol exposure.

Methods

Thirty-six adolescent male rats (130-150 g) were randomly assigned into three groups: sham, ethanol-only group (25% ethanol intragastrically thrice daily for four days, approximately 10 g/kg/day) and ethanol with Alda-1®group (10 mg/kg thrice daily for four days). The ALDH activity at baseline and 90 min after the last infusion in each group was measured. Brain damage was investigated using Luxol fast blue-Cresyl violet staining in the hippocampus, CA1 and CA2/3. The activation of astrocytes and microglia was examined using immunohistochemistry for antiglial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and anti-ionized calcium-binding adapter molecule 1 (Iba-1).

Results

After a four-day binge, the ALDH activity level was doubled in the ethanol with Alda-1®group (mean: 7.87, SD: 0.67), whereas the levels in the sham group (mean: 4.07, SD: 0.53) and ethanol-only group (mean: 3.77, SD: 0.36) were slightly decreased. More significant neuronal shrinkage, fewer neurons, and loss of Nissl in the hippocampus were observed in the ethanol-only group compared to the ethanol with Alda-1®group. Astrocytosis and microgliosis of the hippocampus also showed increased activation in the ethanol only group compared with the ethanol with Alda-1®group.

Conclusion

Alda-1®administration reduces cytotoxic damage to the hippocampus in adolescent rats with binge ethanol exposure.
Over 2.5 million COI sequences in GenBank and growing
Authors: Porter Teresita M. , Hajibabaei Mehrdad
Published: June 2018

The increasing popularity of cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI) DNA metabarcoding warrants a careful look at the underlying reference databases used to make high-throughput taxonomic assignments. The objectives of this study are to document trends and assess the future usability of COI records for metabarcode identification. Over 2.5 million COI sequences were found in GenBank, half of which were fully identified to the species rank. From 2003 to 2017, the number of COI Eukaryote records deposited has grown by two orders of magnitude representing a nearly 42-fold increase in unique species. For fully identified records, 92% are at least 500 bp in length, 74% have a country annotation, and 51% have latitude-longitude annotations. To ensure the future usability of COI records in GenBank we suggest: 1) Improving the geographic representation of COI records 2) Improving the cross-referencing of COI records in the Barcode of Life Data System and GenBank to facilitate consolidation and incorporation into existing bioinformatic pipelines, 3) Adherence to the minimum information about a marker gene sequence guidelines, and 4) Integrating metabarcodes from eDNA and mixed community studies with existing sequences. COI metabarcoders are normally considered consumers of taxonomic data. Here we discuss the potential for taxonomists to reverse this pattern and instead mine metabarcode data to guide species discovery. The growth of COI reference records over the past 15 years has been substantial and is likely to be a resource across many fields for years to come.
Defending the Undefendable: Male Territorial Behaviour and Mating System in Monogamous Primates
Authors: Dunbar R.I.M.
Published: June 2018

It has been suggested that monogamy evolves when females forage alone and are overdispersed, such that males cannot defend more than one female at a time. I test the underlying assumption that the females of monogamous anthropoid primates are overdispersed in three different ways, and compare the results with data for several polygynous primate genera. First, I show that monogamous primates do not have per capita territories that are significantly larger than those of polygynous taxa. Second, given their day journey length and the Mitani-Rodman equation (Mitani & Rodman 1979), males of most monogamous species could easily defend areas large enough to allow them to monopolise 5-6 females. Finally, I use a model of male mate searching strategies to show that, unlike the males of polygynous species, the males of monogamous species would sire more offspring by adopting a roving male form of polygyny when females are dispersed. The opportunity cost that monogamous males incur is typically more than five times the reproductive success they have by being obligately monogamous, suggesting that the selection pressure preventing them from pursuing a roving male strategy is very considerable. Given that biparental care always follows the adoption of monogamy in primate evolution, the only viable explanation for monogamy would seem to be either high predation risk or high infanticide risk.
STK25 directly activates LATS1/2 independent of MST/MAP4Ks
Authors: Lim Sanghee , Hermance Nicole , Mudianto Tenny , Mustaly Hatim M. , Mauricio Ian Paolo Morelos , Vittoria Marc A. , Quinton Ryan J. , Howell Brian W. , Cornils Hauke , Manning Amity L. , Ganem Neil J.
Published: June 2018

The Hippo pathway maintains tissue homeostasis by negatively regulating the oncogenic transcriptional co-activators YAP and TAZ. Though functional inactivation of the Hippo pathway is common in tumors, mutations in core pathway components are rare. Thus, understanding how tumor cells inactivate Hippo signaling remains a key unresolved question. Here, we identify the kinase STK25 as a novel activator of Hippo signaling. We demonstrate that loss of STK25 promotes YAP/TAZ activation and enhanced cellular proliferation, even under normally growth-suppressive conditions. We reveal that STK25 activates LATS via a previously unobserved mechanism, in which STK25 directly phosphorylates the LATS activation loop. This represents a new paradigm in Hippo activation and distinguishes STK25 from all other identified kinase activators of LATS. STK25 is significantly focally deleted across a wide spectrum of human cancers, suggesting STK25 loss may represent a common mechanism by which tumor cells functionally impair the Hippo tumor suppressor pathway.
Draft Genome Sequence of the Asian Pear Scab Pathogen, Venturia nashicola
Authors: Johnson Shakira , Jones Dan , Thrimawithana Amali H. , Deng Cecilia H. , Bowen Joanna K. , Mesarich Carl H. , Ishii Hideo , Won Kyungho , Bus Vincent G.M. , Plummer Kim M.
Published: June 2018

Venturia nashicola, which causes scab disease of Asian pear, is a host-specific, biotrophic fungus, with a sexual stage that occurs during saprobic growth. V. nashicola is endemic to Asia and is regarded as a quarantine threat to Asian pear production outside of this continent. Currently, fungicide applications are routinely used to control scab disease. However, fungicide resistance in V. nashicola, as in other fungal pathogens, is an ongoing challenge and alternative control or prevention measures that include, for example, the deployment of durable host resistance, are required. A close relative of V. nashicola, V. pirina, causes scab disease of European pear. European pear displays non-host resistance (NHR) to V. nashicola and Asian pears are non-hosts of V. pirina. It is anticipated that the host specificity of these two fungi is governed by differences in their effector arsenals, with a subset responsible for activating NHR. The Pyrus-Venturia pathosystems provide a unique opportunity to dissect the underlying genetics of non-host interactions and to understand coevolution in relation to this potentially more durable form of resistance. Here, we present the first V. nashicola draft whole genome sequence (WGS), which is made up of 40,800 scaffolds (totalling 45 Mb) and 11,094 predicted genes. Of these genes, 1,232 are predicted to encode a secreted protein by SignalP, with 273 of these predicted to be effectors by EffectorP. The V. nashicola WGS will enable comparison to the WGSs of other Venturia spp. to identify effectors that potentially activate NHR in the pear scab pathosystems.
L-norvaline reverses cognitive decline and synaptic loss in a murine model of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Polis Baruh , Srikanth Kolluru D , Elliott Evan , Gil-Henn Hava , Samson Abraham O.
Published: June 2018

The urea cycle plays a role in the pathogenesis of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Arginase-I accumulation at sites of amyloid-beta deposition is associated with L-arginine deprivation and neurodegeneration. Moreover, a positive interaction between the arginase-II and mTOR-S6K1 pathways promote inflammation and oxidative stress. In this study, we treated 3xTg-AD mice exhibiting increased ribosomal protein S6 kinase beta-1 (S6K1) activity and wild-type (WT) mice with L-norvaline. The substance combines unique properties of arginase and S6K1 inhibition. The treated 3xTg-AD mice demonstrated significantly improved acquisition of spatial memory, associated with a substantial reduction of microgliosis and shift from activated to resting phenotype. Moreover, an increase of dendritic spines density and escalation of the expression rates of neuroplasticity related proteins were followed by a decline in the levels of amyloid-beta toxic oligomeric and fibrillar species in the hippocampus. Our findings associate local amyloid-beta-driven and immune-mediated response with altered L-arginine metabolism and suggest that arginase and S6K1 inhibition by L-norvaline can delay progression of AD.
Excitatory and inhibitory subnetworks are equally selective during decision-making and emerge simultaneously during learning
Authors: Najafi Farzaneh , Elsayed Gamaleldin F , Cao Robin , Pnevmatikakis Eftychios , Latham Peter E. , Cunningham John P , Churchland Anne K
Published: June 2018

Inhibitory neurons, which play a critical role in decision-making models, are often simplified as a single pool of non-selective neurons lacking connection specificity. This assumption is supported by observations in primary visual cortex: inhibitory neurons are broadly tuned in vivo, and show non-specific connectivity in slice. Selectivity of excitatory and inhibitory neurons within decision circuits, and hence the validity of decision-making models, is unknown. We simultaneously measured excitatory and inhibitory neurons in posterior parietal cortex of mice judging multisensory stimuli. Surprisingly, excitatory and inhibitory neurons were equally selective for the animal’s choice, both at the single cell and population level. Further, both cell types exhibited similar changes in selectivity and temporal dynamics during learning, paralleling behavioral improvements. These observations, combined with modeling, argue against circuit architectures assuming non-selective inhibitory neurons. Instead, they argue for selective subnetworks of inhibitory and excitatory neurons that are shaped by experience to support expert decision-making.
The foliar endophytePhialocephala scopiformisDAOMC 229536 secretes enzymes supporting growth on wood as sole carbon source
Authors: Bhatnagar Jennifer M. , Sabat Grzegorz , Cullen Daniel
Published: June 2018

The conifer needle endophyte,Phialocephala scopiformis, was cultivated in media containing groundPinus contortawood as sole carbon source. After five and seven days growth, concentrated extracellular fluids were subjected to LC-MS/MS analyses. A total of 590 proteins were identified of which 99 were assigned to glycoside hydrolase families within the Carbohydrate Active Enzyme (CAzyme) system. Multiple isozymes of exo-and endo-acting cellulases were among the most abundant proteins, and oxidative degradation of cellulose was supported by the presence of lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases, glucooligosaccharide oxidase and cellobiose dehydrogenase. Oxidoreductases were also plentiful and included GMC oxidoreductases, alcohol dehydrogenases, laccases, copper radical oxidases, tyrosinases and catalase. The expression and diversity of extracellular oxidoreductases indicates a capacity to metabolize alcohols and aromatic compounds.
Electrocorticographic responses to time-compressed speech vary across the cortical auditory hierarchy
Authors: Davidesco Ido , Thesen Thomas , Honey Christopher J , Melloni Lucia , Doyle Werner , Devinsky Orrin , Ghitza Oded , Schroeder Charles , Poeppel David , Hasson Uri
Published: June 2018

Human listeners understand spoken language across a variety of rates, but when speech is presented three times or more faster than its usual rate, it becomes unintelligible. How the brain achieves such tolerance and why speech becomes unintelligible above certain rates is still unclear. We addressed these questions using electrocorticography (ECoG) recordings in 7 epileptic patients (two female). Patients rated the intelligibility of sentences presented at the original rate (100%), speeded rates (33% or 66% of the original sentence duration) and a slowed rate (150%). We then examined which parameters of the neural response covary with the transition from intelligible to unintelligible speech. Specifically, we asked whether neural responses: 1) track the acoustic envelope of the incoming speech; 2) “scale” with speech rate, i.e. whether neural responses elicited by slowed and speeded sentences can be linearly scaled to match the responses to the original sentence. Behaviorally, intelligibility was at ceiling for speech rates of 66% and above, but dropped significantly for the 33% rate. At the neural level, Superior Temporal Gyrus regions (STG) in close proximity to A1 (‘low-level’) tracked the acoustic envelope and linearly scaled with the input across all speech rates, irrespective of intelligibility. In contrast, secondary auditory areas in the STG as well as the inferior frontal gyrus and angular gyrus (‘high-level’) tracked the acoustic envelope and linearly scaled with input only for intelligible speech. These results help reconcile seemingly contradictory previous findings and provide better understanding of how information processing unfolds along the cortical auditory hierarchy.
A new calcium-activated dynein adaptor protein, CRACR2a, regulates clathrin-independent endocytic traffic in T cells
Authors: Wang Yuxiao , Huynh Walter , Skokan Taylor D. , Vale Ronald D.
Published: June 2018

Cytoplasmic dynein is a microtubule minus-end-directed motor that transports numerous intracellular cargoes. Mammalian dynein transport is initiated by coiled-coil adaptor proteins that 1) join dynein and its co-factor dynactin into a complex capable of processive motility, and 2) interact with a cargo-bound receptor, which is frequently a Rab GTPase on an organelle. Here, we report two novel dynein adaptors, CRACR2a and Rab45, which have a coiled-coil adaptor domain, a pair of EF hands, and a Rab GTPase domain fused into a single polypeptide. We find that CRACR2a-mediated dynein-dynactin motility is activated by calcium in vitro and in cells. In activated T cells, CRACR2a localizes to clathrin-independent endosomes that require microtubule-based transport to detach from the actin cortex and travel towards the microtubule organizing center. Together these results represent the first known examples of Rab GTPases that directly act as dynein adaptors and implicate CRACR2a-dynein in regulation of endocytic trafficking in T cells.
Frequency changing technique for efficient fast start-up RF energy harvesting
Authors: Shieh Sajjad , Kamarei Mahmoud
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present a frequency-changing technique to realize a fast start-up radio frequency (RF) energy harvester.

Design/methodology/Approach

First, a simple analysis of the input impedance of the rectifier circuit is presented, and based on the analysis, it is shown how the input impedance of the rectifier is changed during the rectifier charging. Then, the frequency-changing technique is presented in which the variation of the rectifier input reactance (capacitance) is partly compensated by changing the frequency of the transmitted RF signal. A harvester consisting of a four-stage rectifier and a simple series matching inductor, implemented based on Schottky diode, is employed to verify the technique.

Findings

With the input available power of −12 dBm, the simulated and the measured results prove that the proposed frequency-changing method compared to the typical fixed-frequency method shows more than 30 per cent decrease in the transient time to reach 0.5 V output voltage, while the final harvested output voltage is unchanged.

Originality/Value

A frequency-changing technique is presented.
Inclusive workplace and organizational citizenship behavior
Authors: Panicker Aneesya , Agrawal Rakesh Kumar , Khandelwal Utkal
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the relationship between employees’ perception of an inclusive workplace, namely, inclusive practices, inclusive climate and inclusive leadership and organizational citizenship behavior (OCB). It also attempts to examine the difference in perception toward the inclusive workplace along the three major dimensions of diversity, namely, gender, category they belong to and their religious orientation.

Design/methodology/approach

Non-probability sampling technique is employed to collect primary data through a self-administered questionnaire from 492 academicians of a higher education institution situated in western Uttar Pradesh of India. The data set was analyzed using statistical tools like descriptive statistics (z-test and ANOVA), and multiple regression analysis.

Findings

Results of the multiple regression analysis reflected direct and significant relationship between inclusive workplace and OCB. It has been observed that organizations with a conducive climate of inclusion, a well formulated inclusive practices and strong leaders’ commitment will result into high level of OCB which is apparent among employees working in a higher education institution western Uttar Pradesh. The results ofz-test reflected that male and female employees have similar perception toward inclusive climate. However, there is a significant difference in perception toward inclusive practices and inclusive leadership on OCB. On the other hand, results of ANOVA reflected that with respect to religious orientation there is no significant difference among perceptions toward inclusive workplace. However in case of category employees have similar perception toward inclusive climate in contrast with inclusive practices and inclusive leadership.

Research limitations/implications

The present study established the concept of inclusive workplace, entirely on the basis of individual viewpoint. While to examine the cause and effect relationship of an inclusive workplace on OCB, it is recommended to incorporate some moderating or intervening variables.

Practical implications

This study provides guidelines for academic institutions to understand and foster an inclusive workplace that will encourage the academicians to exhibit OCB.

Originality/value

Very little research had examined the relationship between inclusive workplace and OCB. This research will add value to the existing literature on inclusive workplace and its probable impact on organizations and individuals by examining this relationship with respect to gender, category and religious orientation of employees working in higher educational institution of India.
Institutional racism in the film industry: a multilevel perspective
Authors: Hennekam Sophie , Syed Jawad
Published: June 2018

Purpose

While the notion of institutional racism typically focuses on racial discrimination in institutions such as governmental organisations, academic institutions and courts of law, there is a need to complement this organisational (meso) focus with the investigation of relevant factors at the societal (macro) and individual (micro) levels. The purpose of this paper is to examine the multilevel factors influencing institutional racism in the film industry.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on 16 in-depth interviews with individuals working in the film industry, this paper develops a conceptual perspective of multilevel racism.

Findings

The findings highlight how power structures, network-based recruitment practices, as well as formal and informal learning lead to and sustain racism in the film industry. However, agency on an individual level is observed as a way to break those patterns.

Originality/value

The findings highlight how individual agency pushes for more equality and diversity in the film industry, despite the barriers encountered on macro- and meso-levels. In addition, the important role of informal and formal learning through observation is stressed as a means to sustain the discriminatory practices in this industry.
Unsteady flow and heat transfer over a permeable stretching/shrinking sheet with generalized slip velocity
Authors: Hafidzuddin Mohd Ezad Hafidz , Nazar Roslinda , M. Arifin Norihan , Pop Ioan
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the unsteady two-dimensional viscous flow and heat transfer over an unsteady permeable stretching/shrinking sheet (surface) with generalized slip velocity condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Similarity transformation is used to reduce the system of partial differential equations into a system of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The resulting equations are then solved numerically using “bvp4c” function in MATLAB software.

Findings

Dual solutions are found for a certain range of the unsteady, suction and stretching/shrinking parameters. Stability analysis is performed, and it is revealed that the first (upper branch) solution is stable and physically realizable, whereas the second (lower branch) solution is unstable.

Practical implications

The results obtained can be used to explain the characteristics and applications of the generalized slip in boundary layer flow. Such condition is applied for particulate fluids such as foams, emulsions, polymer solutions and suspensions. Furthermore, the phenomenon of stretching/shrinking sheet can be found on the manufacturing of polymer sheets, rising and shrinking balloon or moving and shrinking polymer film.

Originality/value

The present numerical results are original and new for the study of unsteady flow and heat transfer over a permeable stretching/shrinking sheet with generalized slip velocity.
SOX 404 and debt contracting value of accounting information
Authors: Li Shihong
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate whether the Section 404 of Sarbanes–Oxley Act (SOX 404) changed the way banks use accounting information to price corporate loans.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses a sample of 1,173 US-listed firms that issued syndicated loans both before and after their compliance with SOX 404 to analyze the changes in loan spread’s sensitivity to some key accounting metrics such as ROA, interest coverage, leverage and net worth.

Findings

The study finds that the interest spread’s sensitivity to key accounting metrics, most noticeably for ROA, declined following the borrower’s compliance with the requirements of SOX 404. The decline was not explainable by borrowers that disclosed internal control weaknesses but concentrated among borrowers suspected of real earnings management (REM).

Originality/value

By examining the effects of SOX 404 on banks’ pricing process, this study augments the literature on SOX’s economic consequences. The findings suggest that lenders perceive little new information from SOX 404 disclosures of internal control deficiencies and are cautious about the accounting information provided by REM borrowers. It also extends the research on the use of accounting information in debt contracting. By examining loan interest’s sensitivity to accounting metrics, it broadens the concept of debt contracting value of accounting information to include accounting’s usefulness for assessing credit risk at loan inception.
Investigation of the acoustic properties of needle punched nonwoven produced of blend with sustainable fibers
Authors: Islam Shariful , Mominul Alam Shaikh Md.
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the acoustic properties of needle-punched nonwovens produced of bamboo, banana and hemp fibers blended with polyester (PET) and polypropylene (PP) as they are supportive enough to minimize sound transmission inside the automobiles.

Design/methodology/approach

Textile materials like bamboo, banana and hemp blended with PET and PP in the ratio of 35:35:30 were applied to make the web. The needle-punching technique was applied to each web for three times to form a full nonwoven textile composite. The concept of PET/PP blend with natural fibers was to enhance the consistency and thermoform propensity of the composites. When nonwoven textile composites were placed in between a sound source and a receiver, they absorbed annoying sound by dissolving sound wave energy. Sound absorption coefficient was measured by the impedance tube method as per ASTM C384 Standard. Bamboo/PET/PP composite showed the highest absorption coefficient in most of the frequencies.

Findings

Physical and comfort properties were tested for the composites and it was noticed that bamboo/PET/PP composites with its compressed structure showed a better stiffness value, lesser thermal conductivity, lesser air permeability, better absorption coefficient and highest sound transmission loss compared to other two composites. At 840 Hz, the absorption coefficient of bamboo/PET/PP remained in satisfactory level but it was inferior by 20 percent in banana/PET/PP. Conversely at more frequencies like 1,680 Hz, there was a decrease from the target level in all the nonwovens composites, which could be enhanced by raising the thickness of the nonwovens, and all these properties of bamboo/PET/PP were considered appropriate for controlling noise inside the vehicles.

Practical implications

This research will provide facilities to decrease noise inside the vehicles. It will improve the apparent value of the automobiles to the traveler and also provide a sensible goodwill to the manufacturer.

Originality/value

This research will open several ways for the development of different nonwoven composites, particularly for the sound absorption and will open possible ways for the scholars to further study in this field.
Relationship between maternal, household, and socio-economic characteristics and household food security in Aceh, Indonesia
Authors: Srinita Srinita
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between maternal, household and socio-economic characteristics and household food security in Aceh Province, Indonesia.

Design/methodology/approach

The data used are cross-section, secondary data from the Economic Census of Indonesia in 2016 (BPS, 2016) from 23 districts/cities. The central message of the present empirical analysis is that relatively simple indicators perform well in locating food security.

Findings

The analysis proves that mother’s age has a significant effect on average calorie intake at the household level. This may be due to the fact that mother’s age plays an important role in the provision of proper food to her family. Higher-aged mothers can understand better about the food quality and requirement for the family as compared to low-aged mother. Environmental factors like access to safe water and better sanitation facilities within housing premises indirectly enhance the absorptive capacity of available food intake. Thus, environmental factors could play an important role in food security through calorie intake, irrespective of economic status of the household. This analysis further strengthens the earlier findings that higher food intake availability alone may not lead to improved health outcome, unless measures are taken to improve access to safe water and sanitation. The contribution of dependency ratio in per capita calorie intake also appeared to be significant in this study. This shows that high dependency ratio reduces the per capita calorie intake due to a larger share in food items among households.

Originality/value

No previous study has comprehensively studied the relationship between maternal, household, and socio-economic characteristics and household food security, especially in Aceh, Indonesia.
Moderating effect of organizational citizenship behavior on the effect of organizational commitment, transformational leadership and work motivation on employee performance
Authors: Rita Marcy , Randa Payangan Otto , Rante Yohanes , Tuhumena Ruben , Erari Anita
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relationship between transformational leadership, organizational commitment, motivation, organizational citizenship behavior (OCB) and employee performance.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is located in the province of Papua, and more specifically at the District Secretariat Papua Province. The study was conducted in the months from April to June 2016. This study tested the effect of transformational leadership, organizational commitment, work motivation, OCB and performance Officer Regional Secretariat Papua Province, then the variable research is transformational leadership, organizational commitment, work motivation, OCB and performance officer. Structural equation modeling (SEM) calculation tool is commonly used is the program analysis of moment structures.

Findings

The results of studies show that moderating OCB does not significantly affect the relationship between organizational commitment, transformational leadership, work motivation and the performance of employees at the District Secretariat in Papua Province.

Originality/value

Originality of this paper is on the comprehensive study that combines the variables of transformational leadership, organizational commitment, work motivation, OCB and performance into a complete model of study. Originality for this paper shows the moderation effect of OCB on the effect of organizational commitment, transformational leadership and work motivation on employee performance. This research is located in the Province of Papua, and more specifically at the District Secretariat Papua Province.
The effect of auditor quality to professional skepticsm and its relationship to audit quality
Authors: Kusumawati Andi , Syamsuddin Syamsuddin
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationships between auditor quality to professional skepticism and between auditor quality and professional skepticism to audit quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis method to test the causal effect of auditor quality to profesional skepticism and audit quality. The respondent in this research is the auditor in the Audit Board of the Republic of Indonesia in South Sulawesi province using questionnaire. The analysis tool used in this research is partial least square.

Findings

The auditor quality has direct effect on the professional skepticism. Professional skepticism has direct effect on the audit quality. The auditor quality has no direct effect on audit quality, but auditor quality has indirect effect on audit quality with mediation of professional skepticism.

Originality/value

This paper shows a research was conducted about professional skepticism public sector in governmental sector for producing the audit quality, especially in South Sulawesi province in Indonesia. This research retests the research result from Aranya and Amernic (1981); Carcello et al. (1992); Behn et al. (1997); Copley (1998); Brown and Raghunandan (1995); Beasley et al. (2001); Chiu (2003); Suraida (2005); Lewinsohn et al. (1997); Novianti (2008); Varelius (2009). The researcher uses model combination (design) method of sequential explanatory based on evidentiary sequence from Creswell 2009, quantitative research (by instrument using questionnaire).
Corporate image no longer leads to customer satisfaction and loyalty: a Malaysian perspective
Authors: Moorthy Krishna , Chun T’ing Loh , Ai Na Seow , Tze Ching Chew , Yuin Loong Lee , Sze Xian Lim , Wei Ling Teoh
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to study the factors that influence customer loyalty toward the internet service providers in Malaysia. The five factors used are corporate image, perceived quality, perceived value, price fairness and promotion. The mediating variable of this study is customer satisfaction, while customer loyalty is the study variable.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary data collection has been done by distributing survey questionnaires to 338 internet users in Malaysia. The data collected have been analyzed with SAS software.

Findings

The results showed that perceived quality has the strongest influence on customer satisfaction toward internet service providers in Malaysia. However, corporate image has no relationship with customer satisfaction toward internet service providers in Malaysia. Furthermore, customer satisfaction has a significant and positive relationship to customer loyalty toward the internet service providers in Malaysia.

Originality/value

European Customer Satisfaction Index has been adopted and combined with price fairness and promotion as a new research model that other researchers may look into it further. This research may also serve as a guide to internet service providers as they may learn about the underlying factors that affect the satisfaction and loyalty of customers and which factor has the strongest impact.
Sustainability reporting practices in US and UK: an empirical comparison
Authors: Bhatia Aparna , Tuli Siya
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate and compare the sustainability reporting practices of companies in the two most successful Western economies, the USA and the UK, as per Global reporting initiative framework.

Design/methodology/approach

Content analysis has been applied on a sample of 136 companies listed on the Stock Exchanges of the USA and the UK (USA – NASDAQ 100, 100 companies and Amex major market index, 20 companies; UK – FTSE 100, 100 companies). It uses descriptive statistics and independent sample t-test to identify significant comparisons.

Findings

The findings of the study suggest that the level of sustainability reporting is almost similar in the USA and the UK. It is somewhat low in both the countries. Overall mean disclosure score is 39.1 per cent in case of the USA followed by UK with 34.5 per cent. The result of independent sample t-test shows that these differences are not significant.

Practical implications

Sustenance is not a grave issue in both the USA and the UK. Thus, sustainability reporting is a voluntary practice in both these countries. Even then these countries are fostering in the field of sustenance and sensitizing the developing nations towards its need and relevance. The present study would provide developing countries a base and understanding of need based rules for moving on the path of sustenance.

Originality/value

The USA and the UK are the two most successful Western economies. However, not even a single study was found while reviewing the literature that studied and compared the sustainability reporting practices of these two leading developed countries.
Credit risk and banking stability: a comparative study between Islamic and conventional banks
Authors: Ferhi Afifa
Published: June 2018

Purpose

This paper aims to evaluate the credit risk of Islamic and conventional banks and its relationship with the capital in 14 countries of the Middle East and North Africa region. To do this, a sample of 58 Islamic banks and 89 conventional banks during the 2005-2015 period was used.

Design/methodology/approach

In fact to measure the difference between Islamic banks and their conventional counterparts in terms of credit risk, the generalized method of moments is used.

Findings

The results showed that the conventional model has a higher credit risk than the Islamic one. These results also showed that the larger an Islamic bank is, the higher its credit risk will be to get closer to that of conventional banks.

Originality/value

This investigation is based on actual data for each bank available in the Bank-Scope database provided by the Van Dijik office (2013). It should be noted that almost all the recent empirical studies interested in the world banking sector essentially use this database.
Classical analysis of preloaded bolted joint load distributions
Authors: Welch Michael
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop the understanding of how external loads are reacted through preloaded bolted joints and the interaction of the joint elements. The paper develops ideas from how to do an analysis to understanding the implications of the results.

Design/methodology/approach

Classical methods of analysis are applied to preloaded bolted joints, made with multiple bolts. The paper considers both the detailed analysis of bolts stresses, fatigue analysis and load-based design analysis, to demonstrate the structural integrity of preloaded bolted joints.

Findings

In preloaded joints the external tensile axial load and moments are mainly supported by changes in contact pressure at the faying surface. Only a small proportion of the external loads produce changes in bolt tensile stress. The bolts have a significant mean stress but experience a low working stress range. This low stress range is a factor in explaning why preloaded bolted joints have good fatigue performance.

Practical implications

In many cases the methods presented are adequate to demonstrate the structural integrity of joints. In some cases finite element methods may be more appropriate, and the methods discussed can be used in the validation process.

Originality/value

The paper brings together a number of concepts and links them into a practical design analysis process for preloaded bolted joints. Interpretation of results, within the context of design standards, is provided.
Adoption of internet of things (IOT) based wearables for healthcare of older adults – a behavioural reasoning theory (BRT) approach
Authors: Sivathanu Brijesh
Published: June 2018

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to utilize the novel approach of applying the behavioral reasoning theory (BRT) to examine the adoption of internet of things (IoT) based wearables for the healthcare of older adults and it aims to understand the relative effect of “reasons for” and “reasons against” adoption of IoT-based wearables for health care among older adults.

Design/methodology/approach

The hypothesized relationships were established using the BRT and empirically tested using a representative sample of 815 respondents. The data were analyzed using the PLS-SEM method.

Findings

The findings of this study demonstrate that adoption intention of IoT-based wearables for the health care of older adults is influenced by “reason for” and “reason against” adoption. The finding shows that “reasons for” adoption are ubiquitous, relative advantage, compatibility and convenience and “reasons against” adoption are usage barrier, traditional barrier and risk barrier. Value of “openness to change” significantly influences the “reasons for” and “reasons against” adoption of IoT-based wearables.

Research limitations/implications

This cross-sectional study is conducted only in the Indian context and future research can be conducted in other countries to generalize the results.

Practical implications

This research highlighted both the adoption factors—“for” and “against,” which should be considered while developing marketing strategies for IoT-based wearables for health care of older adults. Adoption of IoT-based wearables for healthcare of older adults will increase when marketers endeavor to minimize the effects of the anti-adoption factors.

Originality/value

This is a unique study that examines the adoption of IoT-based wearables for healthcare among older people using the BRT, by probing the “reasons for” and “reasons against” adoption in a single framework.
Personal reactions to sexual assault disclosures made by female clients diagnosed with serious mental illness
Authors: Strauss Swanson Charlotte , Schroepfer Tracy
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Mental health practitioners working with female clients diagnosed with a serious mental illness (SMI) often face client disclosures of sexual assault. Research has shown that practitioners’ responses can be complicated by the diagnosis and lack of professional training; however, less is known about the role their personal factors may play. The purpose of this paper is twofold: to further understanding of practitioners’ personal reactions and investigate how these reactions affect their professional response.

Design/methodology/approach

Nine mental health practitioners participated in face-to-face interviews, in which they were asked to describe their personal reactions when faced with a disclosure and to discuss how these reactions influence client assessment, treatment and referral.

Findings

The study results show that lacking training, practitioners expressed feelings of uncertainty, fear and worry about how best to respond without causing further harm. Findings serve to inform future training to support practitioners and, as a result, improve care and treatment for this population.

Originality/value

This study is unique because it explores the personal reactions mental health practitioners’ experience when responding to disclosures of sexual assault among women diagnosed with an SMI and how these reactions may impact their professional response.
Linear and non-linear analysis on two-dimensional steel frame under different temperatures
Authors: N. Parthasarathi , K.S. Satyanarayanan , M. Prakash , V. Thamilarasu
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Progressive collapse because of high temperatures arising from an explosion, vehicle impact or fire is an important issue for structural failure in high-rise buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study, using ABAQUS software for the analysis, investigated the progressive collapse of a two-dimensional, three-bay, four-storey steel frame structure from high-temperature stresses.

Findings

After structure reaches the temperature results like displacement, stress axial load and shear force are discussed.

Research limitations/implications

Different temperatures were applied to the columns at different heights of a structure framed with various materials. Progressive collapse load combinations were also applied as per general service administration guidelines.

Originality/value

This study covered both steady-state and transient-state conditions of a multistorey-frame building subjected to a rise in temperature in the corner columns and intermediate columns. The columns in the framed structure were subjected to high temperatures at different heights, and the resulting displacements, stresses and axial loads were obtained, analysed and discussed.
Collective social enterprises for social innovation
Authors: Rey-García Marta , Calvo Nuria , Mato-Santiso Vanessa
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Cross-sector partnerships (CSPs) are one type of collective social enterprise that has gained importance as a vehicle for social innovation (SI). The purpose of this paper is to understand the sources of the competitive advantage of CSPs as a strategic option for SI.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors propose a conceptual framework that integrates two interrelated dimensions of CSP competitiveness – resources and coordination – and their corresponding indicators. Then, the authors apply it to an in-depth case study through qualitative enquiry of a large CSP in the field of work integration during its formation and implementation stages (2012–2016). The authors employ a case study design with process tracing methods for increased validity, analyzing structured data from multiple sources (documentary, in-depth interviews with field experts and key decision-makers in coordinating partner organizations, direct observations) through narrative and visual mapping strategies.

Findings

Results illustrate the dynamic interaction between the key dimensions and factors that shape the potential and limitations of CSPs for SI and evidence three types of tensions which management influences partnership outcomes: hierarchical/horizontal commitment; competition/collaboration; and managerial efficiency/social transformation.

Originality/value

This research highlights the pivotal role of product development for the organizing of SI in a CSP context and proposes a conceptual framework that paves the way for future research on the sources of competitive advantage of CSPs, facilitating the assessment of their performance in terms of socially innovative outcomes.
A VIKOR-based approach for the ranking of mathematical instructional videos
Authors: Acuña-Soto Claudia Margarita , Liern Vicente , Pérez-Gladish Blanca
Published: June 2018

Purpose

In the last years, the use of free-online instructional videos has gained popularity among educators and students. Its success is mainly based on the provision of fast and inexpensive access to educational contents which can be consulted at the own convenience of students, all over the world. Free-online platforms as YouTube offer access to more than ten million instructional videos. The purpose of this paper is to assess and rank the educational quality of free-online instructional videos from a multidimensional perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, the authors propose a MCDM approach based on a compromise ranking method, VIKOR. The approach integrates a normalization process which is especially suitable for situations where the nature of the different decision-making criteria is such that it does not allow homogeneous aggregation.

Findings

With the proposed normalization approach, the initial valuations of the alternatives with respect to the criteria are transformed in order to reflect their similarity with a given reference point (ideal solution). The normalized data are then integrated in a VIKOR-based framework in order to obtain those mathematical videos closer to the ideal video from the instructors’ perspective.

Originality/value

The ranking of instructional videos based on their quality from an educational multidimensional perspective is a good example of a real decision-making problem where the nature of the criteria, qualitative and quantitative, implies heterogeneous data. The proposed IS-VIKOR approach overcomes some of the problems inherent to this real decision-making problem.
A chance constraint based low carbon footprint supply chain configuration for an FMCG product
Authors: Aggarwal Remica
Published: June 2018

Purpose

Green supply chain management and new product innovation and diffusion have become quite popular and act as a rich source of providing competitive advantage for companies to trade without further deteriorating environmental quality. However, research on low-carbon footprint supply chain configuration for a new product represents a comparably new trend and needs to be explored further. Using relatively simple models, the purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how carbon emissions concerns, such as carbon emission caps and carbon tax scheme, could be integrated into an operational decision, such as product procurement, production, storage and transportation concerning new fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) product introduction.

Design/methodology/approach

The situation titled “low-carbon footprint supply chain configuration problems” is mathematically formulated as a multi-objective optimization problem under the dynamic and stochastic phenomenon concerning receiver’s demand requirements and production plant capacity constraints. Further, the effects of demand and capacities’ uncertainties are modeled using the chance constraint approach proposed by Charnes and Cooper (1959, 1963).

Findings

Various cases have been validated using the case example of a new FMCG product manufacturer. To validate the proposed models, data are generated randomly and solved using optimization software LINGO 10.0.

Originality/value

The attempt is novel in the context of considering the dynamic and stochastic phenomenon with respect to demand center’s requirements and manufacturing plant’s capacity constraints with regard to the low-carbon footprints supply chain configuration of a new FMCG product.