bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The association between 25(OH)D levels, frailty status and adiposity indices in older adults
Authors: Sousa-Santos Ana Rita , Afonso Cláudia , Santos Alejandro , Borges Nuno , Moreira Pedro , Padrão Patrícia , Fonseca Isabel , Amaral Teresa F 
Published: May 2018

AbstractBackgroundVitamin D deficiency is common in older adults and has been linked with frailty and obesity, but it remains to be studied whether frail obese older adults are at higher risk of vitamin D deficiency. Therefore, the aim of this study is to explore the association between frailty, adiposity indices and serum 25(OH)D concentrations.Methods1447 individuals with 65 years or older, participating in a cross-sectional study (Nutrition UP 65). Frailty, according to Fried et al., body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC), body roundness index (BRI) and body shape index (ABSI) were evaluated. A stepwise multinomial logistic regression was carried out to quantify the association between 25(OH)D quartiles and independent variables.ResultsMedian 25(OH)D levels were lower in individuals presenting both frailty and obesity (p<0.001). In the multivariate analysis, pre-frailty (OR 2.65; 95% CI 1.63-4.32) and frailty (OR 3.76; 95% CI 2.08-6.81) were associated with increased odds of lower 25(OH)D serum levels (first quartile). Regarding adiposity indices, obesity (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.07-2.87) and the highest categories of WC (OR 3.46; 95% CI 1.95-6.15), BRI (OR 4.35; 95% CI 2.60-7.29) and ABSI (OR 3.17 95% CI 1.86-5.38) were directly associated with lower 25(OH)D serum levels (first quartile).ConclusionsA positive association between frailty or obesity and lower levels of vitamin D was found. Moreover, besides BMI and WC, other indicators of body adiposity, such as BRI and ABSI, were associated with lower 25(OH)D serum concentrations.
PicW2 fromPicea wilsonii: preparation, purification, crystallization and X-ray diffraction analysis
Authors: Zhang Bei , Guo Gangxing , Lu Fang , Song Ying , Liu Yong , Xu JiChen , Gao Wei 
Published: May 2018

Low temperature is a major limiting factor for plant growth and development. Dehydrin proteins are generally induced in response to low-temperature stress. In previous research, a full-length dehydrin gene,PicW2, was isolated fromPicea wilsoniiand its expression was associated with hardiness to cold. In order to gain insight into the mechanism of low-temperature tolerance by studying its three-dimensional crystal structure, prokaryotically expressed PicW2 dehydrin protein was purified using chitosan-affinity chromatography and gel filtration, and crystallized using the vapour-diffusion method. The crystal grew in a condition consisting of 0.1 MHEPES pH 8.0, 25%(w/v) PEG 3350 using 4 mg ml−1protein solution at 289 K. X-ray diffraction data were collected from a crystal at 100 K to 2.82 Å resolution. The crystal belonged to space groupC121, with unit-cell parametersa= 121.55,b= 33.26,c= 73.39 Å, α = γ = 90.00, β = 109.01°. The asymmetric unit contained one molecule of the protein, with a corresponding Matthews coefficient of 2.87 Å3 Da−1and a solvent content of 57.20%. Owing to a lack of structures of homologous dehydrin proteins, molecular-replacement trials failed. Data collection for selenium derivatization of PicW2 and crystal structure determination is currently in progress.
Labour productivity motivation framework for Iskandar Malaysia
Authors: Ohueri Chukwuka Christian , Enegbuma Wallace Imoudu , Wong Ngie Hing , Kuok Kuok King , Kenley Russell 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to develop a motivation framework that will enhance labour productivity for Iskandar Malaysia (IM) construction projects. The vision of IM development corridor is to become Southern Peninsular Malaysia’s most developed region by the year 2025. IM cannot realise this foresight without effective labour productivity. Previous studies have reported that the labour productivity of IM construction projects was six times lower than the labour productivity of Singapore construction projects, due to lack of motivation among IM labourers, and a shortage of local skilled labour. Therefore, there is a need to study how to motivate IM construction labourers, so as to increase their productivity.

Design/methodology/approach
A quantitative research method was used to collect data from IM construction skilled labourers and construction professionals, using two sets of questionnaire. The respondents were selected using a purposive sampling technique. In total, 40 skilled labourers and 50 construction professionals responded to the questionnaire survey, and the data were analysed using Statistical Package for Social Science software (version 22).

Findings
The analysis revealed the major factors that motivate labourers participating in IM construction projects. The factors were ranked hierarchically using Relative Importance Index (RII) and the outcome of the ranking indicated that effective management, viable construction practices, financial incentives, continuous training and development, and safe working environment were the most significant motivation strategies that positively influence IM construction labourers.

Originality/value
The study developed and validated a framework that can be used to boost the morale of IM construction labourers, so that their productivity can be increased. Implementation of the established motivation framework will also lead to career progression of IM construction labourers, based on the training elements in the framework. This career prospect will attract local skilled labourers to participate in IM construction projects.
Exploring the context of visual information seeking
Authors: Sedghi Shahram , Shormeij Zeinab , Tahamtan Iman 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
Information seeking is an interactive behaviour of the end users with information systems, which occurs in a real environment known as context. Context affects information-seeking behaviour in many different ways. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the factors that potentially constitute the context of visual information seeking.

Design/methodology/approach
The authors used a Straussian version of grounded theory, a qualitative approach, to conduct the study. Using a purposive sampling method, 28 subjects participated in the study. The data were analysed using open, axial and selective coding in MAXQDA software.

Findings
The contextual factors influencing visual information seeking were classified into seven categories, including: “user characteristics”, “general search features”, “visual search features”, “display of results”, “accessibility of results”, “task type” and “environmental factors”.

Practical/implications
This study contributes to a better understanding of how people conduct searches in and interact with visual search interfaces. Results have important implications for the designers of information retrieval systems.

Originality/value
This paper is among the pioneer studies investigating contextual factors influencing information seeking in visual information retrieval systems.
Using multiple Web resources and inference rules to classify Chinese word semantic relation
Authors: Ma Shutian , Zhang Yingyi , Zhang Chengzhi 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to classify Chinese word semantic relations, which are synonyms, antonyms, hyponyms and meronymys.

Design/methodology/approach
Basically, four simple methods are applied, ontology-based, dictionary-based, pattern-based and morpho-syntactic method. The authors make good use of search engine to build lexical and semantic resources for dictionary-based and pattern-based methods. To improve classification performance with more external resources, they also classify the given word pairs in Chinese and in English at the same time by using machine translation.

Findings
Experimental results show that the approach achieved an average F1 score of 50.87 per cent, an average accuracy of 70.36 per cent and an average recall of 40.05 per cent over all classification tasks. Synonym and antonym classification achieved high accuracy, i.e. above 90 per cent. Moreover, dictionary-based and pattern-based approaches work effectively on final data set.

Originality/value
For many natural language processing (NLP) tasks, the step of distinguishing word semantic relation can help to improve system performance, such as information extraction and knowledge graph generation. Currently, common methods for this task rely on large corpora for training or dictionaries and thesauri for inference, where limitation lies in freely data access and keeping built lexical resources up-date. This paper builds a primary system for classifying Chinese word semantic relations by seeking new ways to obtain the external resources efficiently.
A bank merger predictive model using the Smoluchowski stochastic coagulation equation and reverse engineering
Authors: Banakar Zahra , Tavana Madjid , Huff Brian , Di Caprio Debora 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to provide a theoretical framework for predicting the next period financial behavior of bank mergers within a statistical-oriented setting.

Design/methodology/approach
Bank mergers are modeled combining a discrete variant of the Smoluchowski coagulation equation with a reverse engineering method. This new approach allows to compute the correct merging probability values via the construction and solution of a multi-variable matrix equation. The model is tested on real financial data relative to US banks collected from the National Information Centre.

Findings
Bank size distributions predicted by the proposed method are much more adherent to real data than those derived from the estimation method. The proposed method provides a valid alternative to estimation approaches while overcoming some of their typical drawbacks.

Research limitations/implications
Bank mergers are interpreted as stochastic processes focusing on two main parameters, that is, number of banks and asset size. Future research could expand the model analyzing the micro-dynamic taking place behind bank mergers. Furthermore, bank demerging and partial bank merging could be considered in order to complete and strengthen the proposed approach.

Practical implications
The implementation of the proposed method assists managers in making informed decisions regarding future merging actions and marketing strategies so as to maximize the benefits of merging actions while reducing the associated potential risks from both a financial and marketing viewpoint.

Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study where bank merging is analyzed using a dynamic stochastic model and the merging probabilities are determined by a multi-variable matrix equation in place of an estimation procedure.
Multichannel segmentation in the after-sales stage in the insurance industry
Authors: Dalla Pozza Ilaria , Brochado Ana , Texier Lionel , Najar Dorra 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to present a multichannel segmentation approach to identifying customer segments based on actual customer channel usage in the post-purchase phase in the health insurance industry.

Design/methodology/approach
A multinomial regression model and count regression models were estimated to describe the profiles of customer segments and the frequency of channel usage based on generations and sociodemographic variables.

Findings
This study identified generational differences in channel usage. Single female customers from the Pre-Boomer or Baby Boomer generation and customers living in states with lower incomes are more likely to use call centres. Website users tend to live in regions with higher per capita income. Multichannel users are, on average, more frequent users of both the website and call centres. In terms of sociodemographics, they display a more heterogeneous profile.

Research limitations/implications
The proposed segmentation needs to be enriched with additional variables such as customers’ health status or channel usage motivations.

Practical implications
Customers, who are male, married and from Generations Y and X, are more likely to use the website. Their propensity to switch to a digital channel could be investigated further to develop targeted migration strategies. Multichannel users are, on average, more frequent users of all channels. To avoid increased channel costs, segments should be analysed in terms of their size and profit potential to help allocate marketing investment more efficiently.

Originality/value
As opposed to existing research, the proposed segmentation approach is based on transactional data of channel usage from a real company, combined with analyses using generations and sociodemographic variables.
When customers are willing to disclose information in the insurance industry
Authors: Steiner Philipp Hendrik , Maas Peter 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to show antecedents of customers’ information disclosure in the insurance industry and demonstrate central levers that foster customers’ information disclosure to companies in the insurance sector.

Design/methodology/approach
A conceptual model is presented, which is empirically tested with 3,494 insurance customers from ten counties with structural equation modelling and multi-group analysis.

Findings
Customer value in the insurance industry consists of three factors (customer value provided by the company, the agent, and the product) and affects information disclosure directly and indirectly (via satisfaction and trust).

Research limitations/implications
Antecedents of customers’ information disclosure in the insurance industry were identified. Moreover, the authors show that, in line with resource exchange theory, customers are willing to disclose personal and behavioral data to an insurance company in exchange for lower premiums or additional services.

Practical implications
Customers expect benefits in exchange for their personal data. In combination with new technologies (e.g. smartphones or wearables), companies can offer tailored products to their customers and can create a win -win situation for customers as well as insurance companies.

Originality/value
The paper identifies the antecedents of customers’ information disclosure in the insurance industry with a conceptual model. This model is tested in ten countries and offers insights in established (e.g. USA) as well as emergent markets (e.g. Brazil).
Migrant workers’ (non)belonging in rural British Columbia, Canada: storied experiences of Marginal Living
Authors: Caxaj Susana , Diaz Luis 
Published: May 2018

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the experiences of belonging and wellbeing among temporary migrant agricultural workers (TMAWs) in a rural setting in the interior of British Columbia, Canada.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative narrative approach informed by participatory action research principles was employed. In total, 12 migrant workers participated in two to four one-on-one interviews and/or focus group conversations.FindingsThe analysis revealed an over-arching theme of Marginal Living encompassing stories of always on the outside, mechanisms of isolation and exclusion; struggling for the basics, realities of worrying about daily bare necessities; and “nothing but a worker’s,” experiences of being reduced only to one’s labor. These storied experiences each impacted workers’ wellbeing and typically limited their ability to feel a sense of belonging. Yet, workers exerted agency and resilience through storied experiences of “one family and for those who come next.” Their efforts contributed to building a sense of community through mutual support and advocacy.Originality/valueVery few studies have focused on the day-to-day experiences of this population and its influence on their sense of belonging and wellbeing. This study is also the first to examine this topic within this particular region (the rural BC interior). These findings can provide a starting point for improved program planning to address challenges faced by TMAWs in rural Western Canada. Further, they expand the understanding of concepts such as partial citizenship and structural exclusion as they apply in the day-to-day realities of migrant workers in rural BC.
Participation in decision making regarding the conservation of heritage resources and conservation attitudes in Kilwa Kisiwani, Tanzania
Authors: Chinyele Batholomeo Jerome , Lwoga Noel Biseko 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
The purpose of this paper is to examine the influence of local residents’ participation in decision making regarding the conservation of the built heritage on conservation attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach
This study borrows ideas from Arnstein’s Model of Citizen Participation and from past research to develop a model, and then testing it using a questionnaire survey with a sample of 209 local residents in Kilwa Kisiwani World Heritage Site in Tanzania.

Findings
The mean statistics showed that participation in decision making in Kilwa Kisiwani is relatively limited to the level of tokenism. Nevertheless, on the side of attitudes, the study indicates residents’ tendency to favour conservation. Regression results indicate that there is a significantly positive relationship between participation in decision making and attitude towards conservation.

Research limitations/implications
Although the study did not cover the dynamics inherent in each bloc of resident community that may act as roadblocks in the participation process, it regards “participation in decision making” as a useful tool for heritage managers and conservation authorities for promoting local support for the conservation of heritage resources. Theoretically, the study implies that Arnstein’s Model can be a useful framework for ascertaining residents’ participation in the heritage management context, and for explaining its effect on conservation attitudes.

Originality/value
This study is the first rigorous confirmation of the relationship between participation in decision making and individual’s attitude towards conservation. The study provides a useful conceptual tool for heritage managers in promoting local support for conservation.
Towards the development of cultural tourism as an alternative for tourism growth in Northern Zimbabwe
Authors: Woyo Erisher , Woyo Edith 
Published: May 2018

PurposeZimbabwean tourism, whose draw-card is wildlife, has been on the decline since land invasions that occurred in 2000. Due to the farm invasions, wildlife-based tourism is no longer a viable option. In cases where traditional industries are declining, cultural tourism has been found to be an effective alternative source of revenue. Cultural and heritage tourism represents a growing special interest market whose demand is very high; however, this sector is yet to be sufficiently explored in the empirical context of Northern Zimbabwe. The purpose of this paper is to explore the development potential of the sector.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative methodology was applied in this study. Data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire that was distributed to 500 international tourists who visited Northern Zimbabwe’s cultural and heritage attractions between October 2013 and February 2014. Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 19.0 was employed in data coding and analysis. Descriptive statistics, independentt-tests and one way analysis of variance were used in this study.FindingsOn the whole, the study found that there is potential to develop cultural tourism as an alternative for tourism growth in Northern Zimbabwe. Results showed that there exists a certain demand for cultural and heritage tourism in Northern Zimbabwe and should be developed. Cultural and heritage tourists’ spending is high per visit, despite the fact that Zimbabwe is an expensive destination. The intention to repeat visitation was found to be significant with the age, level of qualification and nationality of respondents.Originality/valueThe findings provides insights for cultural and heritage tourism managers in Northern Zimbabwe and similar places around the country to invest in this special interest tourism. The development of cultural and heritage tourism will contribute towards the diversification of the seasonal and threatened nature-based tourism in Zimbabwe. With a better understanding of the motivations, trip behaviour characteristics and perceptions of Northern region, this paper presents insights that are important in developing the cultural and heritage tourism sector. Research on tourism growth in Zimbabwe has predominantly focused on nature-based tourism, suggesting a clear relegation of the contribution that cultural and heritage resources can make towards tourism growth; thus, this study provides a significant contribution in the Zimbabwean context with regards to literature.
Firm characteristics associated with concurrent disclosure of GAAP-compliant financial statements with earnings announcements
Authors: D’Angelo Thomas , El-Gazzar Samir , Jacob Rudolph A. 
Published: May 2018

Purpose
This paper aims to examine the characteristics of firms that voluntary disclose generally accepted accounting principals (GAAP)-compliant statements of income, statement of cash flows (SCF) and balance sheet (BS) concurrently with quarterly earnings releases. Cardinal motivation of the paper stems from the increasing demand over the past decade by professional analysts and the Securities and Exchange Commission for concurrent disclosure of GAAP-compliant financial statements with earnings’ announcements.

Design/methodology/approach
Using hand-collected archival data, a random sample was identified as disclosing GAAP-compliant SCF and BS with their quarterly earnings releases compared to a control sample identified as non-GAAP-compliant disclosing firms during the 36-month period of 2009-2011, and several hypotheses are tested to determine managements’ incentives to disclose GAAP-compliant versus non-GAAP financials with their earnings releases.

Findings
The results in this paper suggest that debt financing, corporate governance, operating performance, earnings volatility, industry membership (such as technology and more research and development-intensive) and complexity of operations (number of segments) are significant characteristics of firms electing to concurrently disclose GAAP-compliant SCF and BS with earnings releases.

Practical implications
The findings discussed in this paper are of special interest to financial reporting policymakers, financial analysts, firm managers and stakeholders and academics.

Originality/value
The voluntary disclosure literature on quarterly earnings releases is extended by differentiating between GAAP-compliant and non-GAAP-compliant voluntary disclosers. The specific findings of this study may provide valuable input to policymakers as they study prevailing voluntary disclosure rules and practices.