bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proteome overabundance enables respiration but limitation onsets carbon overflow
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Lahtvee Petri-Jaan
Published: February 2020

Central carbon metabolism produces energy and precursor metabolites for biomass in heterotrophs. Carbon overflow yields metabolic byproducts and, here, we examined its dependency on nutrient and growth using the unicellular eukaryotic model organismSaccharomyces cerevisiae. We performed quantitative proteomics analysis together with metabolic modeling and found that proteome overabundance enabled respiration, and variation in energy efficiency caused distinct composition of biomass at different carbon to nitrogen ratio and growth rate. Our results showed that ceullar resource allocation for ribosomes was determinative of growth rate, but energy constrains on protein synthesis incepted carbon overflow by prioritizing abundance of ribosomes and glycolysis over mitochondria. We proved that glycolytic efficiency affected energy metabolism by making a trade-off between low and high energy production pathways. Finally, we summarized cellular energy budget underlying nutrient-responsive and growth rate-dependent carbon overflow, and suggested implications of results for bioprocesses and pathways relevant in cancer metabolism in humans.
Kinfitr – an open source tool for reproducible PET modelling: validation and evaluation of test-retest reliability
Authors: Tjerkaski Jonathan , Cervenka Simon , Farde Lars , Matheson Granville James
Published: February 2020

In positron emission tomography (PET) imaging, binding is typically estimated by fitting pharmacokinetic models to the series of measurements of radioactivity in the target tissue following intravenous injection of a radioligand. However, there are multiple different models to choose from and numerous analytical decisions which must be made when modelling PET data. Therefore, full communication of all the steps involved is often not feasible within the confines of a scientific publication. As such, there is a need to improve analytical transparency.Kinfitr, written in the open-source programming language R, is a tool developed for flexible and reproducible kinetic modelling of PET data, i.e. performing all steps using code which can be publicly shared in analysis notebooks. In this study, we compared outcomes obtained usingkinfitrwith those obtained using PMOD: a widely-used commercial tool.

Using previously-collected test-retest data obtained with four different radioligands, a total of six different kinetic models were fitted to time-activity curves derived from different brain regions. We observed high agreement between the two kinetic modelling tools both for binding estimates and for microparameters. Likewise, no substantial differences were observed in the test-retest reliability estimates between the two tools.

In summary, we showed excellent agreement between the open source R packagekinfitr, and the widely-used commercial application PMOD. We therefore conclude thatkinfitris a valid and reliable tool for kinetic modelling of PET data.
High-throughput behavioral screen inC. elegansreveals novel Parkinson’s disease drug candidates
Authors: Sohrabi Salman , Mor Danielle E. , Kaletsky Rachel , Keyes William , Murphy Coleen T.
Published: February 2020

We recently linked branched-chain amino acid transferase 1 (BCAT1) with the movement disorder Parkinson’s disease (PD), and found that reduction ofC. elegans bcat-1causes abnormal spasm-like ‘curling’ behavior with age. Here, we report the development of a high-throughput automated curling assay and its application to the discovery of new potential PD therapeutics. Four FDA-approved drugs were identified as candidates for late-in-life intervention, with metformin showing the greatest promise for repurposing to PD.
Crystal structure of the human oxytocin receptor
Authors: Waltenspühl Yann , Schöppe Jendrik , Ehrenmann Janosch , Kummer Lutz , Plückthun Andreas
Published: February 2020

The peptide hormone oxytocin modulates socioemotional behaviour and sexual reproduction via the centrally expressed oxytocin receptor (OTR) across several species. Here, we report the crystal structure of human OTR in complex with retosiban, a non-peptide antagonist developed as an oral drug for the prevention of preterm labour. Our structure reveals insights into the detailed interactions between the G-protein coupled receptor (GPCR) and an OTR-selective antagonist. The observation of an extrahelical cholesterol molecule, binding in an unexpected location between helix IV and V, provides a structural rationale for its allosteric effect and critical influence on OTR function. Furthermore, our structure in combination with experimental data allows the identification of a conserved neurohypophyseal receptor-specific coordination site for Mg2+that acts as potent positive allosteric modulator for agonist binding. Together these results further our molecular understanding of the oxytocin/vasopressin receptor family and will facilitate structure-guided development of new therapeutics.
The crystal structure of hemed1biosynthesis-associated small c-type cytochrome NirC reveals mixed oligomeric statesin crystallo
Authors: Klünemann Thomas , Henke Steffi , Blankenfeldt Wulf
Published: February 2020

Monoheme c-type cytochromes are important electron transporters in all domains of life. They possess a common fold hallmarked by three α-helices that surround a covalently attached heme. An intriguing feature of many monoheme c-type cytochromes is their capacity to form oligomers by exchanging at least one of their α-helices, which is often referred to as 3D domain swapping. Here, we have determined the crystal structure of NirC, a c-type cytochrome co-encoded with other proteins involved in nitrite reduction by the opportunistic pathogenPseudomonas aeruginosa. Crystals diffracted anisotropically to a maximum resolution of 2.12 Å (spherical resolution 2.83 Å) and initial phases were obtained by Fe-SAD phasing, revealing the presence of eleven NirC chains in the asymmetric unit. Surprisingly, these protomers arrange into one monomer and two different types of 3D-domain-swapped dimers, one showing pronounced asymmetry. While the simultaneous observation of monomers and dimers probably reflects the interplay between high protein concentration required for crystallization and the structural plasticity of monoheme c-type cytochromes, the identification of conserved structural motifs in the monomer together with a comparison to similar proteins may offer new leads to unravel the unknown function of NirC.

Synopsis

The crystal structure of the c-type cytochrome NirC fromPseudomonas aeruginosahas been determined and reveals the simultaneous presence of monomers and 3D-domain-swapped dimers in the same asymmetric unit.
Specific features and assembly of the plant mitochondrial complex I revealed by cryo-EM
Authors: Soufari Heddy , Parrot Camila , Kuhn Lauriane , Waltz Florent , Hashem Yaser
Published: February 2020

Mitochondria are the powerhouses of eukaryotic cells and the site of essential metabolic reactions. Their main purpose is to maintain the high ATP/ADP ratio that is required to fuel the countless biochemical reactions taking place in eukaryotic cells1. This high ATP/ADP ratio is maintained through oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS). Complex I or NADH:ubiquinone oxidoreductase is the main entry site for electrons into the mitochondrial respiratory chain and constitutes the largest of the respiratory complexes2. Its structure and composition varies across eukaryotes species. However, high resolution structures are available only for one group of eukaryotes, opisthokonts3–6. In plants, only biochemical studies were carried out, already hinting the peculiar composition of complex I in the green lineage. Here, we report several cryo-electron microscopy structures of the plant mitochondrial complex I at near-atomic resolution. We describe the structure and composition of the plant complex I including the plant-specific additional domain composed by carbonic anhydrase proteins. We show that the carbonic anhydrase is an heterotrimeric complex with only one conserved active site. This domain is crucial for the overall stability of complex I as well as a peculiar lipid complex composed cardiolipin and phosphatidylinositols. Moreover we also describe the structure of one of the plant-specific complex I assembly intermediate, lacking the whole PDmodule, in presence of the maturation factor GLDH. GLDH prevents the binding of the plant specific P1 protein, responsible for the linkage of the PPto the PDmodule. Finally, as the carbonic anhydrase domain is likely to be associated with complex I from numerous other known eukaryotes, we propose that our structure unveils an ancestral-like organization of mitochondrial complex I.
Planar cell polarity in the larval epidermis ofDrosophilaand the role of microtubules
Authors: Pietra Stefano , Ng KangBo , Lawrence Peter A. , Casal José
Published: February 2020

We investigate the mechanisms of planar cell polarity (PCP) in theDrosophilalarva. The epidermis displays an intricate pattern of polarity and is excellent for the study of one system of PCP, the Dachsous/Fat system; partly because the Starry Night/Frizzled system plays no discernable role in the larva. Measurements of the amount of Dachsous reveal a peak near the rear of the anterior compartment. Localisation of Dachs and orientation of ectopic denticles reveal the polarity of every cell in the segment. We discuss how well these findings evidence our gradient model of Dachsous activity. Several groups have proposed that Dachsous and Fat fix the direction of PCP via oriented microtubules that transport PCP proteins to one side of the cell. We test this proposition in the larval cells and find that most microtubules grow perpendicularly to the axis of PCP. We find no meaningful bias in the polarity of those microtubules aligned close to that axis. We also reexamine published data from the pupal abdomen and fail to find evidence supporting the hypothesis that microtubular orientation draws the arrow of PCP.
Evaluation of X-ray Bragg peak profiles with the variance method obtained by in situ measurement on Mg–Al alloys
Authors: Farkas Gergely , Groma István , Veselý Jozef , Máthis Kristián
Published: February 2020

The microstructural evolution in randomly oriented Mg–Al samples is investigated in situ during compression by X-ray diffraction as a function of Al concentration. The diffraction data are evaluated by the variance method, which provides information about the dislocation density and spatial distribution of the dislocations. The dislocation density increases with increasing alloying content. Since the increment of the dislocation density above the yield point is linear, the mutual dislocation interaction type is determined from the Taylor equation. The results indicate the dominance of basal–basal dislocation interactions, but at higher alloying content the share of the basal–non-basal interactions increases. It is shown that the dynamics of dislocation wall formation also depend on Al content. Transmission electron microscopy observations are in agreement with the results obtained by X-ray line profile analysis.
A binuclear CuII/CaII thiocyanate complex with a Schiff base ligand derived from o-vanillin and ammonia
Authors: Plyuta Nataliya , Vassilyeva Olga Yu. , Kokozay Vladimir N. , Omelchenko Iryna , Petrusenko Svitlana
Published: February 2020

The new heterometallic complex, aqua-1κO-bis(μ2-2-iminomethyl-6-methoxyphenolato-1κ2
O
1,O
6:2κ2
O
1,N)bis(thiocyanato-1κN)calcium(II)copper(II), [CaCu(C8H8NO2)2(NCS)2(H2O)], has been synthesized using a one-pot reaction of copper powder, calcium oxide, o-vanillin and ammonium thiocyanate in methanol under ambient conditions. The Schiff base ligand (C8H9NO2) is generated in situ from the condensation of o-vanillin and ammonia, which is released from the initial NH4SCN. The title compound consists of a discrete binuclear molecule with a {Cu(μ-O)2Ca} core, in which the Cu...Ca distance is 3.4275 (6) Å. The coordination geometries of the four-coordinate copper atom in the [CuN2O2] chromophore and the seven-coordinate calcium atom in the [CaO5N2] chromophore can be described as distorted square planar and pentagonal bipyramidal, respectively. In the crystal, O—H...S hydrogen bonds between the coordinating water molecules and thiocyanate groups form a supramolecular chain with a zigzag-shaped calcium skeleton.
1,4-Bis(4-methoxyphenyl)naphthalene
Authors: Manickam R. , Jagadeesan G. , Karunakaran J. , Srinivasan G.
Published: February 2020

The title naphthalene derivative, C24H20O2, features 4-methyoxy-substituted benzene rings in the 1 and 4 positions of the naphthalene ring system. There are two crystallographically independent molecules (A and B) in asymmetric unit. The independent molecules have very similar conformations in which the naphthalene ring systems are only slightly bent, exhibiting dihedral angles between the constituent benzene rings of 3.76 (15) and 3.39 (15)° for A and B, respectively. The pendent 4-methyoxybenzene rings are splayed out of the plane through the naphthalene ring system to which they are connected [range of dihedral angles = 59.63 (13) to 67.09 (13)°]. In the crystal, the molecular packing is consolidated by intermolecular C—H...π interactions, leading to supramolecular chains along the b axis. The chains assemble without directional interactions between them.
GMR in Maldives: Babe in the Woods?
Authors: Agarwal Anurag K.
Published: February 2020

The case deals with sovereignty and issues related to doing business in a foreign land. It highlights aspects of taking political risk for granted and factoring in or not factoring in the legal environment, which includes the rule of law and independence of judiciary, in a particular jurisdiction. The case brings forth the idea of agreeing to the jurisdiction of a neutral country, and how efficacious it may be. The top management is expected to anticipate political and legal changes, and must be prepared to face the worst.
Sydos Computers
Authors: Ramamoorthy Ravichandran
Published: February 2020

The case illustrates an entrepreneurial voyage and venture creation and through it helps in identifying the reasons and causes for that venture's failure. It also enables discussion on the importance of planning a venture, more importantly; financing, managing, growing, and ending a venture and on how to avoid the pitfalls that befall such enterprises. This case can be used in Entrepreneurship courses as well as MBA, PGP and Executive Education programmes on Entrepreneurship.
IFCI Limited (B)
Authors: Virmani Vineet , Raghuram G. , Singla Chitra
Published: February 2020

IFCI Limited-a non-banking financial corporation in India was struggling with issues of negative Capital Adequacy Ratio and high non-performing assets till 2007. The company had not done any business for a decade until 2007. July, 2007 was the time when Atul Rai joined the company as the CEO. This case revolves around the various strategic initiatives taken by Rai and his team to help the firm turnaround. The main focus of the case is on the implementation of some of the key strategic decisions. The case gives opportunity to review IFCI's strategy and make recommendations for future expansion.
Supertech Twin Towers
Authors: Agarwal Anurag
Published: February 2020

The case deals with rampant collusion between builders and development authority personnel in granting approvals. It highlights the blatant moves made by the builder to get favourable sanctions and the Noida Authority in playing to the tunes of the builder, as observed by the Allahabad High Court in its order for demolishing the twin towers. The predicament of the flat owners in the twin towers is palpable. The case documents relevant portions of the judgment and also subsequent developments in a not-so-difficult format to read and reflect upon.
Ratna Sagar Private Limited
Authors: Dixit M.R. , Anilkumar H
Published: February 2020

The case presents the efforts of Dr. Dhanesh Jain, founder of Ratna Sagar Publications to innovate in children's publishing space. His innovations received mixed response. Commercial success was delayed. Adoption of innovations by the educational institutions did not happen as expected, the innovations, however, created opportunities for other business ventures. Dr. Jain is wondering whether the innovation efforts were worth their while.
Gramshree, Ahmedabad: EmpoweringLow-Income Women Artisans
Authors: Purohit Sonal , Gupta Seema
Published: February 2020

This case presents the hybrid business model of a social venture Gramshree. It provides arich description of an actual decision situation faced by the board of trustees regarding the selection of marketing channel for Gramshree for bringing sustainability to the business. Gramshree aimed at empowering women artisans by ensuring a steady income for them so that they could become catalyst for sustainable economic development and social change. However, with growing competition and difficulties in selling, to generate market demand was a key challenge for Gramshree. This case illustrates the strategies for development and value creation of a hybrid social business model. It also describes the challenges faced by social organizations. The case provides an opportunity to evaluate the current situation and proposes a decision for sustainability of the organization.
“Un-hiding” knowledge in organizations: the role of climate for innovation, social exchange and social identification
Authors: Sukumaran Rahul , Lanke Parijat
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Knowledge hiding is a phenomenon in organizations that is commonly observed to be detrimental to the performance of employees. The purpose of this paper is to propose a conceptual framework, which uses social exchange theory and social identity theory to advance an understanding of how climate for innovation can dampen the negative impact of knowledge hiding on performance.

Design/methodology/approach

We have reviewed papers on the concept of knowledge hiding, social identity theory, social exchange theory as well as the literature on climate for innovation, in order to draw the relationships and propose a framework.

Findings

Based on the papers reviewed, this study conceptually advances the understanding that an organizational factor such as “climate for innovation” would prove beneficial to check and reduce knowledge hiding behavior i.e. unhide the knowledge and subsequently improve performance of employees in organizations.

Practical implications

This study proposes climate for innovation, as a factor that would influence the negative impact of knowledge hiding on performance. It is under the control of the managers to create such environment in their teams and the work settings, which would help un-hide the knowledge, and thereby promoting performance at workplace.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature on knowledge hiding as well as the climate for innovation. This is the first work to propose an interaction of climate of innovation with knowledge hiding behavior and their overall impact on performance. The framework is explained in a simple term, to bridge the gap between academics and practitioner world.
POSH: can the lady captain shine and rise?
Authors: Ng Yin Kuan , Lai Ka Fei , Fong Chee Yang , Kuek Thiam Yong , Tan Peter Sin Howe , Maludin Nurliyana
Published: February 2020

Learning outcomes

At the end of the exercise, students will be able to identify the type of entrepreneur, apply Big Five Personality Traits characteristics of the successful entrepreneur, use the Porter five forces to define the company’s attractiveness, describe David’s three-stage framework, use David’s (2015) strategy formulation framework to propose appropriate strategies for a company, explain the interdependencies of the nine key elements of a business model and create the business model canvas.

Case overview/synopsis

The case focuses on Posh Nail Beauty (POSH), one of the leading manicure and pedicure companies in Malaysia. The case concentrates on the discussion of business development, business strategies and challenges of POSH.

Complexity academic level

The case study is suitable to be used by undergraduate students who are taking the courses such as entrepreneurship, business strategy and marketing related courses.

Supplementary materials

Teaching Notes are available for educators only. Please contact your library to gain login details or email support@emeraldinsight.com to request teaching notes. Pearce and Robinson (2013). Strategic management: Planning for domestic & global competition, (13th ed.). McGraw-Hill/Irwin, New York. • Posh Nail Spa. (2017), available at www.poshnailspa.my/ • Posh! Nail Spa Presents The First Nail Art Fashion Show in Malaysia. (2016), available at http://femalemag.com.my/beauty/posh-nail-spa-presents-first-nail-art-fashion-show-malaysia/ • Scarborough and Cornwall (2015). Entrepreneurship and effective small business management, (11th ed.). Pearson, England. • Siaw (2015). “How to nail it: Plus the do’s and don’ts,” The Star, Malaysia. • This Local Nail Salon Is Going Beyond Mere Manicures. (2017), available at http://marieclaire.com.my/beauty/local-nail-salon-posh-nail-spa/ • Torlak and Şanal (2007). David’s strategy formulation framework in action: the example of Turkish Airlines on domestic air transportation. İstanbul Ticaret Üniversitesi Fen Bilimleri Dergisi, 6(12), 81-114. • David (2011). Strategic management (Concepts and cases)(Global Edition 13e). Pearson, Upper Saddle River, New Jersey.

Subject code

CSS 3: Entrepreneurship.
Measuring the continuous quality improvement orientation of medical education programs
Authors: Blouin Danielle , Smith Everett V.
Published: February 2020

Purpose

There is a growing interest in applying continuous quality improvement (CQI) methodologies and tools to medical education contexts. One such tool, the “Are We Making Progress” questionnaire from the Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award framework, adequately captures the dimensions critical for performance excellence and allows organizations to assess their performance and identify areas for improvement. Its results have been widely validated in business, education, and health care and might be applicable in medical education contexts. The measurement properties of the questionnaire data were analyzed using Rasch modeling to determine if validity evidence, based on Messick's framework, supports the interpretation of results in medical education contexts. Rasch modeling was performed since the questionnaire uses Likert-type scales whose estimates might not be amenable to parametric statistical analyses.

Design/methodology/approach

Leaders and teachers at 16 of the 17 Canadian medical schools were invited in 2015–2016 to complete the 40-item questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the ConQuest Rasch calibration program, rating scale model.

Findings

491 faculty members from 11 (69 percent) schools participated. A seven-dimensional, four-point response scale model better fit the data. Overall data fit to model requirements supported the use of person measures with parametric statistics. The structural, content, generalizability, and substantive validity evidence supported the interpretation of results in medical education contexts.

Originality/value

For the first time, the Baldrige questionnaire results were validated in medical education contexts. Medical education leaders are encouraged to serially use this questionnaire to measure progress on their school's CQI focus.
Value creation through expanding the online distribution channel
Authors: Wiengarten Frank , Lam Hugo K.S. , Fan Di
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Current literature provides limited insights into the supply chain contexts within which e-commerce can create higher value for firms. To address this literature gap, this research explores the value potential, and thus value creation process, of e-commerce initiatives for supply chain distribution channel expansions.

Design/methodology/approach

Using secondary data collected from multiple sources, this research conducted an event study to examine the stock market reactions to the announcements of e-commerce initiatives of Chinese firms.

Findings

The results indicate that the e-commerce initiatives increase average firm value by CNY 295.29 million in a three-day window around the initiative's announcement date. Moreover, we find that such stock market reactions are more positive for firms with poor operating performance, and more negative when firms deploy initiatives on their own (rather than third-party) platforms. Further, companies that integrate or complement their online sales with an offline sales channel experience more positive stock market reactions.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the value creation process of e-commerce from an operation and supply chain process perspective.
Inducing individuals to engage in a gamified platform for environmental conservation
Authors: Du Helen S. , Ke Xiaobo , Wagner Christian
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This research draws on goal framing theory and gamification affordance to understand how gamification design encourages users' continuous usage of information systems (IS) to perform proenvironmental behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

Survey data (N = 307) were collected from users of a gamified IS designed for environmental protection. The research model was examined with structural equation modeling.

Findings

Satisfying users' demand on green effectiveness, enjoyment, and social gain directly/indirectly predicts users' intention to continue to utilize the gamified IS for proenvironmental behaviors. Moreover, gamification affordance of autonomy support, visibility of achievement, competition, and interactivity influences the satisfaction of the users' relevant demands.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the IS research for environmental sustainability at the individual level. Specifically, this research extends the understanding of users' decision-making on continuance and the role of gamification design in the context of gamified IS developed for environmental conservation.
A strengths-based approach and safeguarding adults – are they compatible?
Authors: Morgan Pete
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to stimulate discussion.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a personal reflection and is not a research paper; there is not therefore a design or methodology that was used in its writing.

Findings

While it may initially appear that a strength-based approach is incompatible with safeguarding adults, it can be a valuable long-term tool in supporting adults who have been abused or self-neglected.

Research limitations/implications

The piece is a personal reflection and therefore not based on research but it does highlight the need for further research to develop tools to facilitate the interface between safeguarding and a strengths-based approach.

Practical implications

The need to recognise when a strengths-based approach is and is not appropriate in safeguarding adults.

Originality/value

The author is not aware of a similar consideration of the interface between safeguarding adults practice and a strengths-based approach.
Development and effectiveness assessment of a sex education learning unit for Thai primary students
Authors: Chaiwongroj Chanonya , Buaraphan Khajornsak
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study explored the effectiveness of sex education lessons developed for six graders by the local community and experts.

Design/methodology/approach

Three lesson plans were developed based on a focus group discussion with students, parents, and teachers and then revised based on experts' feedback. The finalized three lessons were taught to 102 sixth graders in three different primary schools. Pre-test and post-test the students' sex education understanding was measured, and a 5-point Likert scale questionnaire was used to measure overall sexual attitude and awareness. The participants engaged in a semi-structured interview after each lesson, supplemented with researchers' notes. Descriptive statistics and t-tests, and the comparative method were used to analyze quantitative and qualitative data, respectively.

Findings

The sex education knowledge of participants at the three schools improved significantly (p < 0.01) after completing the learning units. Students also expressed satisfaction with the media, activities, and discussions during these sex education classes. The created learning units improved students' sexual attitude and awareness.

Research limitations/implications

Further long-term follow-up studies are needed to determine if there is retention of knowledge, attitudes, and awareness.

Practical implications

There should be more sex education programs at the earlier primary school level, especially in risky regions. Compulsory sex education curriculum in primary schools needs to be adjusted for each school by using a constructivist approach.

Originality/value

This study is unique because it was designed to better fit a specific school’s context and the contents were adapted to be taught by a teacher with minimal training required.
Does VAIC affect the profitability and value of real estate and infrastructure firms in India? A panel data investigation
Authors: Singla Harish Kumar
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This study aims to investigate whether intellectual capital (IC) and its subcomponents enhance value and improve the profitability of real estate (RE) and infrastructure (INF) firms in India. In this study, IC is measured through the value-added intellectual coefficient (VAIC) model. The study further extends the VAIC model by incorporating an additional component of social welfare efficiency (SWE).

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses the panel data investigation based on the data of 63 firms (22 RE and 41 INF firms), for a period of 10 years (2008–2017). The dependent variables in the study are return on assets (ROA) and market price to book value ratio (PB), whereas the independent variables are VAIC and its components. The panel is tested for stationarity, heteroscedasticity and multicollinearity problems. Finally, to account for heteroscedasticity and endogeneity, Arellano and Bond's (1991) panel regression estimator with robust estimates are used.

Findings

The findings of the study suggest that IC has a significant influence on the profitability and value of infra firms, whereas capital-employed efficiency (CEE) positively affects the profitability of both RE and INF firms.

Originality/value

The study is an attempt to find the effect of IC and its components on profitability and value of RE and INF firms in India. The author has also extended the VAIC model, which was introduced by Pulic (2000), by adding an additional IC component, i.e. SWE. The study uses Arellano and Bond's (1991) panel regression estimator with robust estimates, which helps produce robust results.
Drivers and barriers of permission-based marketing
Authors: Bhatia Vinita
Published: February 2020

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the motivating and dissuading factors, which develop consumers’ attitude towards permission based marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model is proposed and validated by following the various studies on mobile and email marketing. A survey of 325 respondents was conducted in the Mumbai city, out of which 271 survey questionnaires were deemed fit for analysis, representing 83.38 per cent response rate. The researcher has used structural equation modelling to test the causal relationships among the constructs.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that increase in personal relevant messages, perceived monetary incentives and perceived entertainment increases consumers’ attitude towards permission based marketing, whereas increase in perceived registration effort decreases consumers’ attitude towards permission based marketing. Furthermore, contrary to the existing literature, perceived consumer empowerment, perceived intrusiveness and perceived privacy issues have no significant relationship with the attitude towards permission marketing. The findings are based on a particular region in India, so it may be different from previous studies.

Research limitations/implications

The study uses a self-reported measure to collect the data through email, and a printed copy of the questionnaire was circulated. Also, the method of sample selection was not random. These two aspects could limit the generalizability of the results.

Practical implications

The research can assist the companies going for promotions through mobile and internet. It provides important findings, which can help them to formulate better promotional strategies.

Originality/value

Fewer research studies have been done to examine the motivating and dissuading factors developing consumers’ attitude towards permission based marketing, therefore, the present research is conducted. After intensely reviewing the available literature, the factors were carefully chosen.
The effect of CEO friendship and perceived pay equity on the earnings management behavior of business-unit managers
Authors: Gouldman Andrea , Victoravich Lisa
Published: February 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the possibility of adverse consequences regarding the recently enacted Dodd–Frank Act (DFA) pay-equity disclosure requirement in the USA, which will likely lead to lower levels of perceived Chief Executive Officer (CEO) pay fairness by subordinates. Specifically, the study examines whether the pay-equity disclosure leads to increased earnings management when business-unit managers have friendship ties with the CEO.

Design/methodology/approach

An experiment is conducted wherein participants assume the role of a business-unit manager and are asked to provide an estimate for future warranty expense, which is used as a proxy for earnings management. The study manipulates friendship between the CEO and a business-unit manager and the saliency of CEO compensation pay-equity.

Findings

CEO friendship ties, which are associated with lower levels of social distance, result in less earning management in the absence of the DFA CEO pay-equity ratio disclosure. However, CEO friendship may result in negative repercussions in terms of higher earnings management in the post-DFA environment when managers are provided with the pay-equity disclosure.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may expand this study by examining how the adverse consequences of the CEO compensation saliency disclosure can be mitigated.

Practical implications

Management, audit committees and internal auditors should consider the possibility of unintended consequences of the increased transparency of CEO pay-equity while designing management control systems.

Social implications

This study highlights the importance of understanding how employees’ social relationships with leaders may influence their behavior.

Originality/value

Unlike prior research, which focuses on senior executives’ direct incentives to manipulate earnings and subsequently increase their compensation, this study provides evidence regarding the earnings management behavior of business-unit managers.
Performance evaluation of cryogenically treated wires during wire electric discharge machining of AISI D3 die tool steel under different cutting environments
Authors: Sharma Husandeep , Goyal Khushdeep , Kumar Sunil
Published: February 2020

Purpose

Tool steel (AISI D3) is a preferred material for industrial usage. Some of the typical applications of D3 tool steel are blanking and forming dies, forming rolls, press tools and punches bushes. It is used under conditions where high resistance to wear or to abrasion is required and also for resistance to heavy pressure rather than to sudden shock is desirable. It is a high carbon and high chromium steel. Therefore, wire electric discharge machining (WEDM) is used to machine this tool steel. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

The present experimental investigation evaluates the influence of cryogenically treated wires on material removal rate (MRR) and surface roughness (SR) for machining of AISI D3 steel using the WEDM process. Two important process responses MRR and SR have been studied as a function of four different control parameters, namely pulse width, time between two pulses, wire mechanical tension and wire feed rate.

Findings

It was found that pulse width was the most significant parameter which affects the MRR and SR. Better surface finish was obtained with cryogenically treated zinc coated wire than brass wire.

Originality/value

The review of the literature indicates that there is limited published work on the effect of machining parameters in WEDM in cryogenic treated wires. Therefore, in this research work, it was decided to evaluate the effect of cryogenically treated wires on WEDM.
Real‐world evidence of subcutaneous allergoid immunotherapy in house dust mite‐induced allergic rhinitis and asthma
Authors: Jutel Marek , Brüggenjürgen Bernd , Richter Hartmut , Vogelberg Christian
Published: February 2020

Background

The objective of this study was to analyze the effectiveness of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) with an allergoid in the treatment of house dust mites (HDM)‐induced allergic rhinitis and/or asthma based on recent real‐life data. The outcomes were measured using asthma incidence and consumption of corresponding medications as the indicator of persisting symptoms.

Methods

In this retrospective cohort analysis of a German longitudinal prescription database, patients who received at least two relevant mite AIT prescriptions in two different successive seasonal cycles were compared with non‐AIT patients who received at least three symptomatic allergic rhinitis (AR) prescriptions in successive mite seasons. Study endpoints included AR progression, asthma progression, asthma occurrence, and therapy adherence. We used multivariate regression analyses to estimate the effects of AIT, adjusting for relevant variables.

Results

This study included 2350 patients receiving a mite allergoid and 64 740 control patients. After up to 6 years of follow‐up, patients treated with mite allergoid required significantly fewer AR and asthma prescriptions (59.7% vs 10.8%) than the control group, and the probability of asthma development was significantly lower. The adherence of patients receiving allergoid was 63.8% at the end of the second year and 38.6% at the end of the third year.

Conclusions

This real‐world evidence confirms the good efficacy of subcutaneous AIT with HDM mite allergoid in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and/or asthma. Up to 6 years of follow‐up revealed significant effects in allergic rhinitis by measuring the number of AR medications and demonstrating significant reductions in asthma medications.
Why are social enterprises good candidates for social innovation? Looking for personal and institutional drivers of innovation
Authors: Tortia Ermanno C. , Degavre Florence , Poledrini Simone
Published: February 2020

The last few years witnessed theoretical and practical contributions to the field of social innovation and social enterprise. However, analysis of the interplay between these two different realms is still limited. This article aims to fill some gaps in this respect. We deal with historical reconstruction of the concept of Social Enterprise and Social Innovation, and their conceptual premises. We consider the process of creation of social innovation in social enterprises. As members’ motivations, ownership rights and governance rules in social enterprises create a new relational context and new routines, which are germane to the production of social knowledge and deliberation, social innovation can be considered one of the main outcomes of this setting. Social motivations, collective action of a cooperative kind, multi‐stakeholder governance and socialization of resources, and their interplay are singled out as main drivers of innovation. Social innovation is seen as akin to novelty in social interaction, a non‐standardized and non‐standardizable outcome of the operation of this organizational form.
Exploring antecedents and consequences of managerial moral stress
Authors: Ames Justin B. , Gaskin James , Goronson Bradley D.
Published: February 2020

The legitimacy of moral stress as a distinct form of general stress has long been debated in previous research. Moreover, individual‐level antecedents of moral stress are yet to be tested among executives. This study investigates role identity saliency (by calculating the total saliency of roles and competition between roles) as an individual‐level antecedent of managerial moral stress and turnover intent as a consequence of managerial moral stress among high‐level strategic decision makers in organisations. We also analyse the moderating effect of moral attentiveness in these relationships. Survey data were collected from 264 strategic decision makers from small to large U.S.‐based organisations. While controlling for overall stress, results support a moderated model, wherein individuals exhibiting a high level of moral attentiveness also demonstrated a significant positive relationship between work role competition and moral stress and between managerial moral stress and turnover intent. Surprisingly, total role saliency demonstrated a significant negative relationship with managerial moral stress for the same individuals. Overall, the results suggest that managerial moral stress may be a legitimate threat to executive retention, above and beyond general stress, for the individuals who are highly attentive to the moral aspects of their environment.
A 20‐year long term experience of the Italian Diamond‐Blackfan Anaemia Registry: RPS and RPL genes, different faces of the same disease?
Authors: Quarello Paola , Garelli Emanuela , Carando Adriana , Cillario Rebecca , Brusco Alfredo , Giorgio Elisa , Ferrante Daniela , Corti Paola , Zecca Marco , Luciani Matteo , Pierri Filomena , Putti Maria C. , Cantarini Maria E. , Farruggia Piero , Barone Angelica , Cesaro Simone , Russo Giovanna , Fagioli Franca , Dianzani Irma , Ramenghi Ugo ,   the AIEOP working group on Diamond Blackfan Anaemia
Published: February 2020

Diamond–Blackfan anaemia (DBA) is a rare and heterogeneous disease characterised by hypoplastic anaemia, congenital anomalies and a predisposition for malignancies. The aim of this paper is to report the findings from the Italian DBA Registry, and to discuss the Registry’s future challenges in tackling this disease. Our 20‐year long work allowed the connection of 50 Italian Association of Paediatric Haematology and Oncology (AIEOP) centres and the recruitment of 283 cases. Almost all patients have been characterised at a molecular level (96%, 271/283), finding a causative mutation in 68% (184/271). We confirm the importance of determination of erythrocyte adenosine deaminase activity (eADA) and of ribosomal RNA assay in the diagnostic pipeline and characterisation of a remission state. Patients with mutations in large ribosomal subunit protein (RPL) genes had a significant correlation with the incidence of malformations, higher eADA levels and more severe outcomes, compared to patients with mutations in small ribosomal subunit protein (RPS) genes. Furthermore, as a consequence of our findings, particularly the incidence of malignancies and the high percentage of patients aged >18 years, we stress the importance of collaboration with adult clinicians to guarantee regular multi‐specialist follow‐up. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of national registries to increase our understanding and improve management of this complex disease.
Ophiopogonin D promotes bone regeneration by stimulating CD31hiEMCNhi vessel formation
Authors: Yang Mi , Li Chang‐Jun , Xiao Ye , Guo Qi , Huang Yan , Su Tian , Luo Xiang‐Hang , Jiang Tie‐Jian
Published: February 2020

Objectives

CD31hiEMCNhi vessels (CD31, also known as PECAM1 [platelet and endothelial cell adhesion molecule 1]; EMCN, endomucin), which are strongly positive for CD31 and endomucin, couple angiogenesis and osteogenesis. However, the role of CD31hiEMCNhi vessels in bone regeneration remains unknown. In the present study, we investigated the role of CD31hiEMCNhi vessels in the process of bone regeneration.

Materials and Methods

We used endothelial‐specific Krüppel like factor 3 (Klf3) knockout mice and ophiopogonin D treatment to interfere with CD31hiEMCNhi vessel formation. We constructed a bone regeneration model by surgical ablation of the trabecular bone. Immunofluorescence and micro‐computed tomography (CT) were used to detect CD31hiEMCNhi vessels and bone formation.

Results

CD31hiEMCNhi vessels participate in the process of bone regeneration, such that endothelial‐specific Klf3 knockout mice showed increased CD31hiEMCNhi vessels and osteoprogenitors in the bone regeneration area, and further accelerated bone formation. We also demonstrated that the natural compound, ophiopogonin D, acts as a KLF3 inhibitor to promote vessels formation both in vitro and in vivo. Administration of ophiopogonin D increased the abundance of CD31hiEmcnhi vessels and accelerated bone healing.

Conclusions

Our findings confirmed the important role of CD31hiEmcnhi vessels in bone regeneration and provided a new target to treat bone fracture or promote bone regeneration.
Validation of AIMS65 to predict outcomes in acute variceal bleeding: Which risk scoring system outperforms in real practice?
Authors: Kawaguchi Koichiro , Isomoto Hajime
Published: February 2020

This Editorial refers to the article by Robertson et al., p 761–768 of this issue.
An experimental study to evaluate predation threats on two native larval lampreys in the Columbia River Basin, USA
Authors: Arakawa Hiroaki , Lampman Ralph T.
Published: February 2020

Experimental predation studies were conducted to evaluate and compare the predation threats of 10 species of native and non‐native fishes on larvae of Pacific Lamprey, Entosphenus tridentatus, and Western Brook Lamprey, Lampetra richardsoni. The relative predatory threats were examined over four sets of binary factors, including the following: (a) short (2‐day) or long (7‐day) duration, (b) presence/absence of fine sediment, (c) live or dead larvae and (d) species of lampreys. Our short‐term results showed a positive correlation with the sizes of predator fishes and consumed lamprey larvae. Also, most predator fishes had a significantly higher propensity to prey on lamprey larvae when sediment was absent. Conversely, this demonstrated the importance of sediment in protecting lamprey larvae from predation. Based on the predatory behaviour for live and dead larvae, predator fishes were classified into four groups using principal component analysis. Predation rates of larvae in sediment by piscivorous predators including Northern Pikeminnow Ptychocheilus oregonensis and Smallmouth Bass Micropterus dolomieu were lower and showed no differences even when the study duration was extended. In contrast, predation rates by benthic predators including White Sturgeon Acipenser transmontanus and Common Carp Cyprinus carpio, increased when we extended the study duration. This suggests that when given longer duration, benthic predators are more adept at consuming larvae within the sediment. These results provide important context for assessing the potential threat of predation on lampreys in streams, which is a key knowledge gap for lampreys.