bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Country-of-origin image; SMEs and emerging economies – evidence from a case study of manufacturing SMEs from Turkey
Authors: Arghashi Vahideh , Okumuş Abdullah 
Published: December 2020

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs’) internationalization process in emerging Islamic markets and to introduce the factors affecting SMEs’ entry modes into a foreign country with emphasis on the role of country-of-origin image (COI) in these processes.Design/methodology/approachThis study provides a case study to investigate the internationalization experiences of one successful SMEs in Turkey. First, this paper conducted face-to-face and semi-structured interviews with the company’s senior executives through open-ended questions. Second, this paper considered the company documentation and researchers’ observations. Finally, this paper did several classifications of the data, analyzed data by the Nvivo 10 software and extracted the results.FindingsThe results demonstrated that SMEs’ internationalization process designed in three stages by four key structures contained decision-making for entering and target market selection (pre-entry stage), entry mode and factors affecting it (entry-stage), designing and using control mechanisms (post-entry stage). Findings also showed that information and knowledge level, the risk level in a foreign country, the control level and supply of resources in the international market, the level of trust in knowledge, political and economic structures that governing in a foreign country are important factors influencing SMEs’ entry strategies. In particular, the results revealed that the COI significantly determines the impact rate of the factors influencing the decision to enter the international market.Research limitations/implicationsThe most important limitation of this research is the use of a case study to investigate the subject. Findings showed COI has a significant impact on SMEs’ internationalization processes and especially on adopting a suitable entry strategy. Therefore, SMEs should pay more attention to the role of COI in the internationalization process.Originality/valueThis case study provides new empirical insight into the SMEs’ internationalization processes in the emerging Islamic economy. Findings introduce the factors that influence the strategy of SMEs entering foreign markets and provide a new research model for future studies.
Option effect of land transfer by city governments: a case study of Hangzhou
Authors: Zhang Ling , Zheng Minghui , Zhang Zheyan 
Published: December 2020

PurposeThis paper aims to study the impact of land options on the land transfer behaviour of Chinese city governments.Design/methodology/approachBased on the institutional environment of Hangzhou, China, the option pricing model is used to measure the option value of the trading plots. The effect of the option value on the land transfer price and the timing of transfers are estimated respectively, using the hedonic price model and the survival analysis models.FindingsThe results show that the option value has a significant explanation on land price and timing of land transfers. Under the effect of option value, the positive impact of fiscal pressure on the possibility of land transfer weakens. From the perspective of the annual option premium rate, the option premium is closely related to the real estate cycle. Option premiums are higher during booms but lower during recessions and in new urban areas.Practical implicationsBy revealing the distinction of land option premiums in different places and times, this paper provides a reference for city governments seeking a balance between real estate regulation and obtaining more land revenue.Originality/valueBy introducing policy variables that reflect the degree of tightness of real estate regulation and indicators of local government financial pressure, the paper discusses the impact of options on the transfer behaviour of local governments in different situations.
Examining the CSR strategy of MNCs in Bangladesh
Authors: Roy Taposh Kumar , Al-Abdin Ahmed , Quazi Ali 
Published: December 2020

PurposeThe paper aims to explore and analyze how multinational companies (MNCs) in Bangladesh define corporate social responsibility (CSR) and how CSR is used by these companies as a strategic tool to improve business and social performances.Design/methodology/approachThe authors choose a qualitative case study approach for this study, using multiple semi-structured interviews with 15 CSR managers and secondary data from websites and annual reports. Both primary and secondary data were collected from ten leading MNCs that operate in Bangladesh.FindingsThe findings indicate that most of the MNCs in Bangladesh are moving toward strategic CSR and away from the conventional altruistic (philanthropic) CSR. It also appears that stakeholder prioritization and one-way communication are key for managing stakeholders.Research limitations/implicationsThe most unavoidable limitation of this research lies in sample selection. A total of ten companies were selected because of lack of accessibility to additional MNCs. To overcome this limitation and increase the credibility of findings, the authors triangulate interview and secondary data from annual reports and websites.Practical implicationsThe findings indicate that MNCs are increasingly recognizing the importance of using their core competencies to generate social benefits. The idea of adopting strategic CSR is predominantly steered by business benefits, which also provide the necessary resources for social and environmental activitiesSocial implicationsThe findings suggest that the shift from philanthropy to strategic postures leads to creating and fostering social benefits such as developing an entrepreneurial spirit and empowering women.Originality/valueMNCs operating in Bangladesh are gradually departing from philanthropy and moving toward strategic CSR by aligning business strategies with CSR. Transition from philanthropy to strategic CSR also reflects on MNCs’ CSR definitions, which include various dimensions such as social, stakeholders and sustainability, except philanthropy. In Bangladesh, where CSR was previously viewed as philanthropic activity, the findings make important contributions to the extant literature, particularly international CSR strategic literature, and can be useful for future research in other developing countries.
How business is adapting to COVID-19: Executive insights reveal post-pandemic opportunities
Authors: Anderson Cindy , Bieck Christian , Marshall Anthony 
Published: December 2020

Purpose
IBM Institute for Business Value research suggests five key discoveries for the post-pandemic business landscape offering new perspectives on digital transformation, the future of work, transparency and sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach
The data referenced in this report were collected from a number of surveys: The IBM Institute for Business Value, in collaboration with Oxford Economics, surveyed 3,450 executives in 20 industries and 22 countries from April to June 2020. The IBM Institute for Business Value, again in collaboration with Oxford Economics, conducted in July and August 2020 an Executive Pulse survey of 400 CEOs, CIO/CTOs, COOs and Chief Transformation Officers in the US across 20 industries. The IBM Institute for Business Value has fielded a survey instrument with Survey Monkey since April 2020 with more than 50,000 adult respondents across eight countries.

Findings
Analysis confirms that the business competencies that account for the largest part of an organization’s expected growth are those centered on employees and customers.

Practical implications
The survey data also point to greater reliance on platform business models and partner networks.

Originality/value
The research highlights a gaping chasm between what executives think they are offering their employees and how those employees feel.
Early add‐on administration of mepolizumab and intravenous immunoglobulin effective in treating eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis
Authors: Ikeda Takaharu , Komatsu Toshiro , Yokoyama Kae , Takahashi Kazuo , Kawakami Tamihiro 
Published: December 2020

AbstractTreatment of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA) remains a challenge because currently available therapies, corticosteroids and immunomodulators, do not always control symptoms and are often associated with significant morbidity and relapse. Mepolizumab has been demonstrated to be an effective add‐on therapy with steroid‐sparing effect in cases of relapsing or refractory EGPA. Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy is effective against mononeuritis multiplex or heart failure in patients with EGPA who do not respond to corticosteroid‐cyclophosphamide treatment. We present two cases of EGPA in which earlier add‐on administration of adjunct mepolizumab and IVIG led to significant improvement in EGPA symptoms and prevention of flare‐up of the disease. We suggested that earlier add‐on combination administration of IVIG and mepolizumab might be a useful adjunct treatment to induce clinical remission of EGPA and improve the rate of remission, decrease relapse rate, and allow for reduced glucocorticoid use without any serious adverse drug effects.
Degos‐like lesions as a cutaneous manifestation of cytomegalovirus infection: A rare and serious complication in a patient with drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome
Authors: Chieosilapatham Panjit , Prinyaroj Nayanunt , Jamjanya Sirinda , Kiratikanon Salin , Thinrungroj Nithi , Kaewpoowat Quanhathai , Kongkarnka Sarawut , Mahanupab Pongsak , Tovanabutra Napatra , Chiewchanvit Siri , Chuamanochan Mati 
Published: December 2020

AbstractCytomegalovirus causes a myriad of clinical features, potentially affecting any organ system, significantly increasing morbidity and even mortality. Vascular endothelial cell infection by cytomegalovirus has been implicated in the development of vasculopathy, possibly accounting for the clinical association between cytomegalovirus and vascular thrombosis. In contrast with visceral organ involvement, the cutaneous manifestations of cytomegalovirus are variable and rarely described. Malignant atrophic papulosis, commonly known as Degos disease, is an unusual small vessel arteriopathy with a pathognomonic clinical appearance of atrophic porcelain‐white central papules surrounded by telangiectatic erythema. As with the arterial occlusive process, Degos disease may be idiopathic or secondary to autoimmune disorders or viral infection. All in all, cytomegalovirus‐related Degos‐like presentation has never been described. This report describes a case in which disseminated cytomegalovirus disease developed 4 weeks after the onset of drug‐induced hypersensitivity syndrome with prominent Degos‐like skin lesions. Our case highlights a rare example of Degos‐like lesions occurring due to cytomegalovirus disease and emphasizes the importance of early recognition of the characteristic cutaneous eruption as a diagnostic clue leading to the prompt management of this life‐threatening infection.
One door closes, another opens: when nodulation impairment with natural hosts extends rhizobial host‐range
Authors: Jiménez‐Guerrero Irene , Moreno‐De Castro Natalia , Pérez‐Montaño Francisco 
Published: December 2020

SummaryThe rhizobium‐legume symbiosis is the best‐understood plant–microbe association. The high degree of specificity observed in this relationship is supported by a complex exchange of signals between the two components of the symbiosis. Findings reported in last years indicate that multiple molecular mechanisms, such as the production of a particular set of nodulation factors at a very specific concentration or a suitable arsenal of effectors secreted through the type III secretion system, have been adjusted during evolution to ensure and optimize the recognition of specific rhizobial strains by its legume host. Qualitative or quantitative changes in the production of these symbiotic molecular determinants are detrimental for nodulation with its natural host but, in some cases, can also result beneficial for the rhizobium since it extends the nodulation host‐range to other legumes. Potential repercussion of the extension in the nodulation host‐range of rhizobia is discussed.
Multilevel governance and women's legislative representation
Authors: GUSHCHINA KRISTINA , KAISER ANDRÉ 
Published: December 2020

AbstractResearch shows that electoral systems, gender quotas and a country's socio‐economic development affect women's legislative representation (WLR). Less attention is paid to the effects of the rise of regional political arenas and multilevel politics on WLR. Due to less costly and competitive electoral campaigns, women can have easier access to regional legislatures. We argue that this relationship is mitigated by the distribution of competences between the different levels of the political system and that decentralization's effect on WLR at the regional level is dependent on the regions’ political power. To test this, we use an original dataset on WLR in 383 regional parliaments in 19 European countries from 1970 to 2018. Results of the three‐level models show that more political authority vested into regions leads to a lower level of WLR in the legislatures of the more politically powerful regions in comparison with not only the regions possessing less authority but also with the national parliament. Possible explanations for this effect, such as the attractiveness of these positions to the mostly male political elite and, consequently, increased costs and competitiveness of electoral campaigns, are suggested.
Can Small French Farms Provide an Opportunity for Employment in the Agricultural Sector?
Authors: Lecole Pauline 
Published: December 2020

SummaryThe contributions of small farms to the environment or employment are increasingly recognised. Yet small farm employment receives little support from public policies. Can small farms provide employment opportunities in the agricultural sector? The objective of this work is to contribute to reflections on a better adaptation of public support to the heterogeneity of the contributions of small farms to employment. This article focuses on the example of France, using the 2010 agricultural census data. It proposes a typology of workforce patterns in French small farms.In 2010, labour‐intensive small farms with paid worker(s) accounted for just over 2 per cent of small farms in France. They were managed by trained farmers, sometimes newcomers to agriculture, and had high value‐added activities like agrotourism, short distribution channels and/or organic farming production. We conclude with recommendations for European and national public policies aimed at encouraging the maintenance and/or creation of employment on small farms. They include, for example, specific support for small farms, adapted to their lower investment needs and a lighter administrative burden to enable them to develop labour‐intensive projects; or a better integration of small farms into employers’ alliances.
Relationship between dietary choline intake and diabetes mellitus in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007‐2010
Authors: Zhou Long , Li Xiang , Li Shuhong , Wen Xiaoxiao , Peng Yaguang , Zhao Liancheng 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundLittle is known about the relationship between dietary intake of choline, which is a major dietary precursor for gut microbiome‐derived trimethylamine N‐oxide (TMAO), and diabetes mellitus (DM) in the general population. The present study aims to explore the relationship between dietary choline intake and DM in the US adult population.MethodsCross‐sectional data were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007‐2010 of 8621 individuals aged 20 years or older. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for DM of each quartile category of energy‐adjusted choline intakes. The restricted cubic spline model was used for the dose–response analysis. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was used to determine the optimal cutoff value of choline intake for predicting DM.ResultsA linear dose–response relationship between dietary choline intake and the odds of DM was found after adjustment for multiple potential confounding factors. With the lowest quartile category of choline as the reference, the multivariable‐adjusted ORs and 95% CIs of the second, third, and highest quartile categories were 1.23 (0.99‐1.53), 1.27 (1.02‐1.58), and 1.49 (1.20‐1.85), respectively, P for trend =0.0004. The ROC analysis identified energy‐adjusted choline of 331.7 mg/8.37‐MJ per day as the optimal cutoff value for predicting DM, with 52.5% sensitivity and 60.7% specificity.ConclusionThis study supports a positive and linear relationship between dietary choline intake and DM in the US adult population.
Attribute substitution in household vehicle portfolios
Authors: Archsmith James , Gillingham Kenneth T. , Knittel Christopher R. , Rapson David S. 
Published: December 2020

AbstractRoughly three quarters of vehicles are purchased into multi‐car households. We study whether households are willing to substitute attributes, such as fuel economy, across vehicles within their portfolio. We develop a novel strategy to separately identify idiosyncratic preferences for an attribute from these within‐portfolio effects. Using the universe of household vehicle registration records in California over a 6‐year period, we find that two‐car households exhibit strong substitution across vehicles when faced with an exogenous change to fuel intensity of a kept vehicle. This effect can erode a substantial portion of the benefit from major policies, such as Cash‐for‐Clunkers.
Comparative proteomics of common allergenic tree pollens of birch, alder, and hazel
Authors: Darnhofer Barbara , Tomin Tamara , Liesinger Laura , Schittmayer Matthias , Tomazic Peter Valentin , Birner‐Gruenberger Ruth 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundIn addition to known allergens, other proteins in pollen can aid the development of an immune response in allergic individuals. The contribution of the “unknown” protein allergens is apparent in phylogenetically related species where, despite of high homology of the lead allergens, the degree of allergenic potential can vary greatly. The aim of this study was to identify other potentially allergenic proteins in pollen of three common and highly related allergenic tree species: birch (Betula pendula), hazel (Corylus avellana) and alder (Alnus glutinosa).MethodsFor that purpose, we carried out a comprehensive, comparative proteomic screening of the pollen from the three species. In order to maximize protein recovery and coverage, different protein extraction and isolation strategies during sample preparation were employed.ResultsAs a result, we report 2500–3000 identified proteins per each of the pollen species. Identified proteins were further used for a number of annotation steps, providing insight into differential distribution of peptidases, peptidase inhibitors and other potential allergenic proteins across the three species. Moreover, we carried out functional enrichment analyses that, interestingly, corroborated high species similarity in spite of their relatively distinct protein profiles.ConclusionWe provide to our knowledge first insight into proteomes of two very important allergenic pollen types, hazel and alder, where not even transcriptomics data are available, and compared them to birch. Datasets from this study can be readily used as protein databases and as such serve as basis for further functional studies.
Postnatal metformin treatment alters rat Sertoli cell proliferation and daily sperm production
Authors: Rindone Gustavo Marcelo , Gorga Agostina , Pellizzari Eliana Herminia , Camberos María del Carmen , Galardo María Noel , Da Ros Vanina Gabriela , Buffone Mariano Gabriel , Meroni Silvina Beatriz , Riera María Fernanda 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe direct correlation between Sertoli cell number and sperm production capacity highlights the importance of deciphering external factors that modify Sertoli cell proliferation. A growing body of evidence in vitro suggests that metformin, the main pharmacological agent for type 2 diabetes treatment in children, exerts anti‐proliferative effects on Sertoli cells.ObjectiveThe aims of this study were to investigate the effect of metformin administration during postnatal period on Sertoli cell proliferation and on cell cycle regulators expression and to analyze the impact of this treatment on the sperm production capacity in adulthood.Materials and MethodsSprague Dawley rat pups were randomly divided into two groups: MET (receiving daily 200 mg/kg metformin, from Pnd3 to Pnd7 inclusive) and control (receiving vehicle). BrdU incorporation was measured to assess proliferation. Gene expression analyses were performed in Sertoli cells isolated from animals of both groups. Daily sperm production and sperm parameters were measured in adult male rats (Pnd90) that received neonatal treatment.ResultsMET group exhibited a significant decrease in BrdU incorporation in Sertoli cells. Concordantly, MET group showed a reduction in cyclin D1 and E2 expression and an increase in p21 expression in Sertoli cells. In addition, metformin‐treated animals displayed lower values of daily sperm production on Pnd90.Discussion and ConclusionThese results suggest that metformin treatment may lead to a decrease in Sertoli cell proliferation, a concomitant altered expression of cell cycle regulators and ultimately, a reduction in daily sperm production in adult animals.
In vitro survival kinetics of microfluidic‐sorted bovine spermatozoa
Authors: Ogata Kazuko , Nagata Maria Portia B. , Nishizono Hirofumi , Yamanouchi Tadayuki , Matsuda Hideo , Ogata Yuki , Takeda Kumiko , Hashiyada Yutaka , Yamashita Kenichi 
Published: December 2020

AbstractBackgroundThe isolation and characterization of sperm subpopulations that can achieve fertilization is a major challenge of assisted reproduction methods. We focused on the microfluidic sperm sorter as a novel tool for collecting highly motile spermatozoa from heterogeneous semen samples.ObjectivesThis study primarily aims to obtain baseline information on sorted spermatozoa according to its characteristics and in vitro life span.Materials and MethodsFrozen‐thawed bull semen was subjected to microfluidic sperm sorting using diffuser‐type microfluidic sperm sorter (DMSS). After sorting, samples were collected as the sorted spermatozoa and unsorted residual spermatozoa and incubated at 37°C for subsequent evaluation. The samples were assessed at different time points (0 or 1, 6, and 24 h) in terms of motility, which was measured by computer‐assisted sperm analysis (CASA), membrane integrity, mitochondrial function, and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) production after sorting (0 h). To determine the characteristics and efficiency of DMSS sorting, the sorted spermatozoa were compared with samples collected using the swim‐up method, a conventional method in motile sperm selection.ResultsA comparison between the sorted and residual spermatozoa demonstrated significantly higher motility parameters, membrane integrity, and mitochondrial function of the sorted spermatozoa until 6 h after incubation. The time course decrement of membrane and mitochondrial status were subjected to curve fitting and theoretically supported. Sperm ATP production measured immediately after sorting showed higher ATP generation of the sorted spermatozoa compared with the unsorted, frozen‐thawed spermatozoa. The motility parameters and mitochondrial activity of DMSS‐sorted spermatozoa were higher than the swim‐up‐collected spermatozoa (p < 0.05).Discussion and ConclusionThese results indicate that DMSS sorting can strictly select highly motile spermatozoa with the ability to maintain its membrane integrity and mitochondrial function related to ATP production. We speculate that the device that is able to sort high‐quality spermatozoa can have great potential in assisted reproduction.