bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Postembryonic Seedling Lethality in the Sterol-Deficient Arabidopsiscyp51A2Mutant Is Partially Mediated by the Composite Action of Ethylene and Reactive Oxygen Species
Authors: Kim Ho Bang , Lee Hyoungseok , Oh Chang Jae , Lee Hae-Youn , Eum Hyang Lan , Kim Hyung-Sae , Hong Yoon-Pyo , Lee Yi , Choe Sunghwa , An Chung Sun , Choi Sang-Bong
Published: November 2009

Seedling-lethal phenotypes of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) mutants that are defective in early steps in the sterol biosynthetic pathway are not rescued by the exogenous application of brassinosteroids. The detailed molecular and physiological mechanisms of seedling lethality have yet to be understood. Thus, to elucidate the underlying mechanism of lethality, we analyzed transcriptome and proteome profiles of the cyp51A2 mutant that is defective in sterol 14α-demethylation. Results revealed that the expression levels of genes involved in ethylene biosynthesis/signaling and detoxification of reactive oxygen species (ROS) increased in the mutant compared with the wild type and, thereby, that the endogenous ethylene level also increased in the mutant. Consistently, the seedling-lethal phenotype of the cyp51A2 mutant was partly attenuated by the inhibition of ethylene biosynthesis or signaling. However, photosynthesis-related genes including Rubisco large subunit, chlorophyll a/b-binding protein, and components of photosystems were transcriptionally and/or translationally down-regulated in the mutant, accompanied by the transformation of chloroplasts into gerontoplasts and a reduction in both chlorophyll contents and photosynthetic activity. These characteristics observed in the cyp51A2 mutant resemble those of leaf senescence. Nitroblue tetrazolium staining data revealed that the mutant was under oxidative stress due to the accumulation of ROS, a key factor controlling both programmed cell death and ethylene production. Our results suggest that changes in membrane sterol contents and composition in the cyp51A2 mutant trigger the generation of ROS and ethylene and eventually induce premature seedling senescence.
In field electrochemical evaluation of carbon steel corrosion in a marine test environment
Authors: Nan Luo Ya , Zhe Song Shi , Xian Jin Wei , Han Lei
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to research electrochemical testing technology as applied to in field corrosion evaluation of metallic materials and to study the corrosion behaviors of the materials exposed in different marine regions.

Design/methodology/approach

The electrode systems for in field electrochemical evaluation of metallic samples are designed and applied to monitor two types of carbon steel samples exposed both in the submerged zone and the tidal zone at a marine corrosion test station. Corrosion potential monitoring, potentiostatic square wave, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and electrochemical noise methods are used in the test.

Findings

It is confirmed that the electrode systems could be used for electrochemical measurement of metallic samples during exposure in the submerged zone and the tidal zone of a marine corrosion test station for long‐term test durations. The electrochemical measuring results reflect the changes and differences of the samples' corrosion behavior during exposure in different regions and they respond directly to the influence of marine environmental factors on the corrosion behaviors, especially the influence of temperature.

Originality/value

In this paper, lots of consecutive and dynamic corrosion information is obtained from field exposures. The findings provide a foundation upon which to investigate and forecast the corrosion behaviors of materials in marine environments.
Effect of localized corrosion on the galvanic corrosion of nitinol and dental alloys
Authors: Afshar Abdollah , Shirazi Mohsen , Rahman Masoud , Fakheri Esmaeil
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the galvanic corrosion of nitinol orthodontic wires with six dental alloys in artificial saliva and consider the effect of initiated localized corrosion and real surfaces of anode and cathode on galvanic current.

Design/methodology/approach

Linear polarization and cyclic polarization curves for each alloy in de‐aerated Duffo and Castillo's artificial saliva are obtained. Galvanic corrosion investigation is conducted by polarization curve intersection and mixed potential theory methods. In order to verify the initiation of localized corrosion, scanning electron microscopy is used.

Findings

Initiation of localized corrosion on the anode increases the galvanic current up to 45 times and therefore considering the effect of localized corrosion on galvanic corrosion is necessary. Placing stainless steel brackets or Aristaloy amalgam in direct contact to nitinol arch wire is not recommended.

Originality/value

In order not to underestimate the galvanic corrosion between two alloys, it is recommended to consider the effects of localized corrosion and anode/cathode surface area ratio. In this paper, an electrochemical method for estimating these factors is proposed.
Emotional labour in librarians' instructional work
Authors: Julien Heidi , Genuis Shelagh K.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Library staff are experiencing increased work role complexity as they move from being service providers towards greater instructional roles, providing bibliographic instruction, user education, and information literacy instruction. The purpose of this paper is to explore how library staff relate to their instructional roles and the implications of those self‐understandings for instructional outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

Data collected from qualitative interviews with library staff in Canadian academic and public libraries and diary entries written over a three‐month period were analyzed using NVivo software and an open‐coding, grounded‐theory approach. The study took a phenomenological perspective and was influenced by constructivist sociological role theory.

Findings

Data analysis revealed the central place of affect in the experiences of librarians engaged in instructional work, and brought focus to the relational aspects of this work and the affective impact of visibility/invisibility of instructional outcomes. A prominent theme was the expression of “emotional labour”; participants used a variety of methods to manage this occupational stressor as they experienced it within the context of instructional work.

Practical implications

Individuals and organizations will benefit from considering the influence of affect on library staff. Those who educate librarians should seek to improve understanding of affect and its impact on instruction; organizations will benefit from addressing the emotional labour performed as a part of the teaching role.

Originality/value

The study draws attention to the affective experiences of library staff. This is the first research article in the LIS literature to explore emotional labour as it relates to librarians.
References to e‐texts in academic publications
Authors: Sukovic Suzana
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore roles of electronic texts (e‐texts) in research enquiry in literary and historical studies, and to deepen the understanding of the nature of scholars' engagement with e‐texts as primary materials. The study includes an investigation of references to e‐texts and discussions about researchers' citation practices in interviews.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative methodology was used to explore scholars' interactions with e‐texts in 30 research projects. A combination of quantitative and qualitative methods was used to examine citations and any other acknowledgments of e‐texts in participants' prepublications and published works. In‐depth semi‐structured interviews provided data for findings about researchers' citation practices.

Findings

Formal acknowledgments of e‐texts do not represent the depth and breadth of researchers' interactions with e‐texts. Assessments of the relevance and trustworthiness of e‐texts, as well as considerations of disciplinary cultures, had some impact on researchers' citation practices.

Research limitations/implications

The study was based on in‐depth data‐gathering from a small group of participants. It does not have any statistical significance and the findings cannot be generalized, but comparisons with other scholars in literary and historical studies are possible. The study indicated a need for further investigation of changing academic practices in general and citation practices in particular.

Practical implications

The findings have implications for the development of standards and institutional support for research in the humanities.

Originality/value

The study provides new insights into the phenomenon of a very small number of citations of electronic sources in publications in the humanities, and considers issues related to citations from the perspective of changing academic cultures.
Research knowledge transfer through business‐driven student assignment
Authors: Sas Corina
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a knowledge transfer method that capitalises on both research and teaching dimensions of academic work. It also aims to propose a framework for evaluating the impact of such a method on the involved stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The case study outlines and evaluates the six‐stage process of addressing a business‐driven problem through translating it into a research question addressable by students in their learning context. The stakeholders involved in this process are: an academic who is also the process coordinator; her students who are involved in a Master by Research programme; and a small size enterprise (SME).

Findings

This approach to knowledge transfer offers clear benefits for all its stakeholders. It provides the company with research solutions that can be used to improve the profitability and increase the company competence base. The academic benefits from leading students' research and enabling a better teaching/learning process, while students benefit from learning by doing which involves applying research knowledge and skills in an industrial project. Apart form these benefits the paper also highlights the lessons learned and the understanding gained into how this approach can be successfully replicated.

Research limitations/implications

The case study approach undertaken for this exploratory research cannot ensure the generalisation of the study findings.

Originality/value

Traditionally, knowledge transfer has exploited the research component of academic work while neglecting the potential of its teaching component. By exploring the synergy between research and teaching, the proposed method not only enables research knowledge transfer, but it also leads to better quality of the teaching process.
Stochastic analysis on time scales
Authors: Jinbo Wang , Shiguo Peng
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to define the related concepts and theorems about the second moment process in stochastic analysis on time scales.

Design/methodology/approach

The study on stochastic analysis now includes two special conditions, namely discrete and continual conditions. However, in some cases, conditions are time scales, so that a new concept, namely stochastic analysis on time scales, is needed. Applying the time scales theory to the second moment process in stochastic analysis, related concept foundation of stochastic analysis on time scales has been established.

Findings

The need for the theory about stochastic analysis on time scales is recognized.

Practical implications

This is a very useful theory in related fields in future.

Originality/value

Stochastic analysis on time scales expand applying fields of stochastic analysis, and will be helpful to related fields.
Analysis of non‐Rayleigh reverberation model with ocean experiment data in coastal area
Authors: Wang Qiang , Gong Xianyi
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve active sonar detection performance in shallow water. A stochastic‐like model multivariate elliptically contoured (MEC) distributions is defined to model reverberation, which helps to reveal structure information of target signatures.

Design/methodology/approach

Active sonar systems have been developed with wider transmission bandwidths and larger aperture receiving array, which improve the signal‐to‐noise ratio and reverberation power ratio after matched filtering and beamforming. But, it has changed the statistical distribution of the reverberation‐induced envelope from the traditionally assumed Rayleigh distribution. The MEC is a kind of generalized non‐Gaussian distribution model. The authors theoretically derive the compound Gaussian, Rayleigh‐mixture, Weibull, K distributions are all special cases of MEC. It is known that Weibull and K distributions have obvious heavy‐tail than Rayleigh distribution. MEC is a suitable model to characterize non‐Rayleigh heavy‐tailed distribution of reverberation.

Findings

The analysis of test data shows reverberation envelopes obviously deviate Rayleigh distribution. In a broad non‐Gaussian framework, reverberation is modelled as MEC distribution, which is suitable to characterize non‐Rayleigh reverberation. The received data in trials validate the effectiveness of MEC model. The real data envelops follows K distribution, which is a special case of MEC. So, the MEC can be applied to develop novel signal‐processing algorithms that mitigate or account for the effects of the heavy‐tailed reverberation distributions on the target detection.

Research limitations/implications

The limited sea test data are the main limitation to prove model validation in further.

Practical implications

A very useful model for representing reverberation in shallow‐water.

Originality/value

The MECs in fact represent an attractive set data model for adaptive array, and it provides a theoretic framework to design an optimal or sub‐optimal detector.
Research on the multiple transformation property of a series of grey models
Authors: Xie Nai‐Ming , Liu Si‐Feng
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the parameters' properties of GM(n, h) model on the basis of multiple transformation and the relationship of GM(n, h) model and other grey models.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple transformation property of parameters is important to construct a grey model. However, there is no research on the property of GM(n, h) model, therefore it is meaningful to study the relationship between GM(n, h) model and other grey models.

Findings

The multiple transformation property of parameters of GM(n, h) model is recognized. The parameters' value is dependent on multiple transformation value. The values of simulative and predicative are only dependent to the multiple transformation of the main variable and independent to other variables.

Research limitations/implications

The properties of other grey models could be obtained by analyzing the property of GM(n, h) model.

Practical implications

It is a very useful result for constructing a grey model.

Originality/value

This paper discusses multiple transformation property of GM(n, h) model and the relationship between the GM(n, h) model and other grey models. These grey models are put into a common model and the affections that parameters' multiple transformation caused to the model are studied.
An FPTAS for SM‐CELS problem with monotone cost functions
Authors: Xu Jianteng , Zhang Qingpu , Bai Qingguo
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to find the best approximation algorithm for solving the more general case of single‐supplier multi‐retailer capacitated economic lot‐sizing (SM‐CELS) problem in deterministic inventory theory, which is the non‐deterministic polynomial (NP)‐hard problem.

Design/methodology/approach

Since few theoretical results have been published on polynomial time approximation algorithms for SM‐CELS problems, this paper develops a fully polynomial time approximation scheme (FPTAS) for the problem with monotone production and holding‐backlogging cost functions. First the optimal solution of a rounded problem is presented as the approximate solution and its straightforward dynamic‐programming (DP) algorithm. Then the straightforward DP algorithm is converted into an FPTAS by exploiting combinatorial properties of the recursive function.

Findings

An FPTAS is designed for the SM‐CELS problem with monotone cost functions, which is the strongest polynomial time approximation result.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation is that the supplier only manufactures without holding any products when the model is applied.

Practical implications

The paper presents the best result for the SM‐CELS problem in deterministic inventory theory.

Originality/value

The LP‐rounding technique, an effective approach to design approximation algorithms for NP‐hard problems, is successfully applied to the SM‐CELS problem in this paper.
Research on insulation detection of insulator strings with fuzzy logical reasoning method
Authors: Xu Xiaoning , Nie Yixiong , Peng Xiangang
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce the realizing process of the fuzzy logical reasoning method in relation to the insulation detection of insulator strings, especially about the establishment of the fuzzy relation matrix.

Design/methodology/approach

Utilizing fuzzy logical reasoning method, the online fault diagnosis of the transmission line insulator strings can be realized efficiently, although the insulation status of the insulator strings is influenced by many factors and the relation between the measured electric parameters about the insulator with the degree of the deterioration is ambiguous.

Findings

Utilizing the pattern recognition method to build the fuzzy relation matrix after choosing the probability of the corona current, the root‐mean‐square value and the peak value and the pulse frequency of the leakage current as the fuzzy operating input variables, using the fuzzy reasoning method to estimate the insulation status proves to be a practical approach.

Practical implications

The experiments verify the correctness of this method by simulating work conditions of insulator strings on an 110 kV transmission line.

Originality/value

This paper proves that using the fuzzy reasoning method to estimate the insulation status of the online insulator strings is a practical approach. The results of the laboratory and the field tests verify the correctness of this approach and the validity of the identification method to build the fuzzy relation matrix.
Pansystems variation theory and its application to computer science
Authors: Yu Lihua , Xu Yuanli , Shi Qing
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to establish the framework of pansystems variation theory (PVT) and discuss its principles, models, methods, and related applications to computer science.

Design/methodology/approach

The PVT has been established based on the traditional variation theory from the viewpoint of pansystems theory. The theoretical foundation of PVT is pansystems variational principle. It is an interpretation or a specialized expression of relative objective regularity in the variation of things. The application layer of PVT is pansystems variational operations research (PVOR).

Findings

The applications of PVT for computer science can be summarized as actualizations of PVOR: V−d(xy)=*0*/PRR′P′/0**.

Originality/value

Some new ideas of PVT can illuminate the researches of computer science.
Grey correlation method in the decision of bridge design plans
Authors: Zhan Hao , Fang Qinhan , Chen Weizhen
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Bridge plans are a complicated grey system. It depends on various natural and social factors. The purpose of this paper is to provide a scientific method for optimization of bridge construction plan.

Design/methodology/approach

Grey relational analysis (GRA) is completely new analysis method has been proposed in the grey system theory. Grey relational order can be used to describe the relation between the related factors based on data series rather than linear relation and typical distribution. First, this paper describes the basic steps and formulae of GRA. Then provides an example to show how to select best bridge construction plan with the method. Specially discusses significant influence of weight selection on decision making for a bridge plan.

Findings

The optimization of bridge construction plan will be selected more reasonable and more objective with the method GRA.

Research limitations/implications

This paper will be further studied on how to quantify indicators more objectively and how to decide weight factor more reasonably.

Practical implications

It has significant practical value to apply GRA to optimization of bridge plans and other engineering projects.

Originality/value

A scientific method‐GRA has been applied to the selection of bridge plans for seeking the best comprehensive result.
SMC method for online prediction in hidden Markov models
Authors: Zhang Dongqing , Ning Xuanxi , Liu Xueni
Published: November 2009

Purpose

As the conventional multistep‐ahead prediction may be unsuitable in some cases, the purpose of this paper is to propose a novel method based on joint probability distributions, which provides the most probable estimation for the predicted trajectory.

Design/methodology/approach

Many real‐time series can be modeled in hidden Markov models. In order to predict these time series online, sequential Monte Carlo (SMC) method is applied for joint multistep‐ahead prediction.

Findings

The data of monthly national air passengers in China are analyzed, and the experimental results demonstrate that the method proposed and the corresponding online algorithms are effective.

Research limitations/implications

In this paper, SMC method is applied for joint multistep‐ahead prediction. However, with the increasing of prediction step, the number of particles is increasing exponentially, which means that the prediction steps cannot be too large.

Practical implications

A very useful advice for researchers who study time‐series forecasts.

Originality/value

A novel method of multistep‐ahead prediction based on joint probability distribution is proposed and SMC method is applied to prediction time series online. This paper is aimed at those researchers who focus on time‐series forecasts.
Self‐organizing data mining research on the decision support system for environmental evolution analysis
Authors: Shuhong Zhang , Mianyun Chen
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to select the main impact factors of environment change automatically and identify and analyze the potential environmental impact factors with time delay by computer simulation, analyzing the impact rate of environmental impact factors. Then, the environmental impact factors analysis decision support system based on self‐organizing data mining model is designed.

Design/methodology/approach

Applying data mining methods in the analysis and decision making of regional environmental impact factors will have broad perspective. Self‐organization data mining is a new modeling method of complex systems modeling with strong modeling capability. It was first presented by A.G. Ivakhnenko, based on the principle of self‐organization of biological cybernetics and Kolmogoorov‐Gabor polynomial function. In this paper, the impact factors of regional environment quality evolution based on self‐organization data mining method is studied, selecting the main impact factors of environment change automatically by computer simulation, analyzing the impact contribution rate of environmental impact factors.

Findings

The environmental impact factors analysis decision support system based on self‐organizing data mining model is designed.

Research limitations/implications

Accessibility and availability of data are the main limitations affecting which model will be applied.

Practical implications

The paper has important theoretical and practical significance for the sustainable development of regional environment, resource, economy system and the constitution of environmental protection and management measures.

Originality/value

This paper not only exploits new application domains of self‐organization data mining, but also explores new ways for regional environment impact factors analysis.
Emergence in entity grammar systems
Authors: Zheng Rao , Wang Kui‐Sheng , Wang Yun
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Emergence is the kernel concept of complexity science. Lack of precision when people refer to “emergent properties” hinders the research of complex systems. The purpose of this paper is to develop a formal definition of emergence to make it intrinsic to a system and to integrate different views on emergence.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the modeling framework of entity grammar systems (EGS), a formal definition of emergence is proposed and a theorem is obtained for exploring the producing conditions of emergence. With the definition and theorem, three views on emergence are unified using the same formalism of EGS.

Findings

The concept of emergence can be formally defined in the framework of EGS to integrate the “downward causation” and “upward causation” views of emergence and makes emergent properties intrinsic to a system. It is possible to control the production of emergence when the system is analyzed using the formalism of EGS.

Originality/value

A formal definition of emergence is proposed in this paper. This work combines the modeling power of EGS with the formal analysis of emergence, which will prompt the further application of EGS in modeling, simulation, and analysis of complex systems in many fields and will provide practical tools for complexity research.
A formal method for integrating distributed ontologies and reducing the redundant relations
Authors: Zhu Junwu , Wang Jiandong , Li Bin
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to integrate distributed ontologies on the web system and clarify the structure of the integrated one.

Design/methodology/approach

A formal method based on concept lattices is introduced as a mechanism to form more general semantic level. By checking the extension and the intension of concept, this method extracts the concept pairs satisfying inclusion relations from descartes' set of concepts in distributed ontologies first, and then constructs a concept lattice according to these concept pairs. An algorithm to reduce redundant relations is also proposed to clarify the structure of integrated ontology.

Findings

The experiments demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method to reduce redundant relations, and the Nir‐to‐Ncr ratio inclines to 1.05 from 3.13.

Research limitations/implications

Instances of certain concept are not given completely on the web, so it is difficult to check extension of different concepts.

Practical implications

A very useful method of integrating distributed ontologies on the web.

Originality/value

Compared with existing methods, this formal method can be performed by program automatically without any human intervening, and can extract the inclusion relations between concepts from distributed ontologies completely.
Institutionalising information asymmetry: governance structures for open innovation
Authors: Feller Joseph , Finnegan Patrick , Hayes Jeremy , O'Reilly Philip
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the ways in which firms utilise hierarchical relationships and the market system to supply and acquire intellectual property (IP) and/or innovation capabilities from sources external to the firm.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conduct a field study to explore emerging governance structures for open innovation, using multiple data sources including documents (e.g. white papers) and interviews published by the firms studied, analysis of the firms' web‐based systems (where applicable), secondary content (e.g. news articles) and elite interviews with key personnel.

Findings

The analysis of seven exemplars of open innovation reveals that inter‐organisational relationships that facilitate open innovation can be categorised based on whether they are mediated or direct, and seek to exchange intellectual property or innovation capability. Using this categorisation, the authors present an analysis that reveals four governance structures along ten dimensions, and discuss the influence of knowledge dispersion, uncertainty and transaction costs on the emergence of such structures. The authors conclude that the appropriateness of hierarchical/market relationships or intermediaries to source IP and/or innovation capability is dependent on the information asymmetry in relation to the existence and availability of potential solutions/solvers; the suitability of potential innovation partners (solution providers and solvers); and the acquisition process for external innovations (including problem specification, solution evaluation, transfer, etc.).

Research limitations/implications

The research is exploratory in nature, and designed to serve as a foundation for future research efforts. In particular, the work highlights the need for research that takes an inter‐organisational perspective on facilitating open innovation.

Practical implications

The research highlights the prominence of information asymmetry as a key issue in choosing and designing appropriate governance structures for open innovation.

Originality/value

The paper presents an exploratory study of an emerging, and consequently under‐researched phenomenon.
Cooperative design efforts for the development of complex IT‐artefacts
Authors: Ponte Diego , Rossi Alessandro , Zamarian Marco
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper contributes to the debate on the relationship between IT‐artefacts and organisational structuration by describing the dynamics surrounding the collaborative development of an innovative electronic metering system. The aim of the paper is to address a clear gap in the current literature on collaborative IT‐artefacts design, as cooperation at early design stages has barely been analysed. This work tries to understand whether and to what extent the design of an IT‐artefact is driven by the interests of a number of heterogeneous actors and how these are able to affect the artefact's evolution.

Design/methodology/approach

The research relies on a case study analysis, which focuses on a consortium of heterogeneous actors (firms, the public sector, research institutes) working within the green energy industry. The research focuses on a workgroup attempting to develop an innovative IT‐artefact: an electronic metering system.

Findings

The main results emerging from the field study are: the relevance of each actor's interests as a prevalent rationale for explaining the technical features of the IT‐artefact; the role of negotiation and consensus in determining the final shape of the IT‐artefact in terms of its features; and the bundling/unbundling of IT‐artefact features as a result of changes in the alignment of actors.

Research limitations/implications

The research presents two clear limitations. First, the activities of the workgroup are still ongoing thus limiting some of the insights one may draw from the case study. Second, the analysis is carried out on a single case study. Further analysis should be done to increase consistency and validity of the findings.

Practical implications

Findings indicate that in an open and collaborative environment, the conceptualisation and evolution of an IT‐artefact are influenced more by the political agendas of the various actors rather than by pure technical problems and concerns. The practical implications thus are that every attempt to manage such a collaborative effort must seriously take into consideration these aspects.

Originality/value

Starting from the recognition that little research has been conducted on the factors influencing cooperative IT‐artefact design, this paper sheds new light on how these factors influence such cooperative activity. The authors believe that this kind of work helps lay some foundations for general models attempting to explain cooperative innovation processes such as the open innovation model.
Natural hazards and environmental implications in Nepal
Authors: Pokhrel D. , Bhandari B.S. , Viraraghavan T.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to evaluate the published information on natural hazards and their implications in the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The published data/information on natural hazards were collected and analyzed.

Findings

An analysis of the disaster data (1983‐2003) showed that a total of 1,063 lives on an average were claimed by natural calamities (earthquake, landslide, flood, fire, windstorm, epidemics and avalanche) each year. Water‐induced (flood and landslide) disasters alone contributed to 31.8 percent of the total deaths. Epidemics claimed the maximum number of deaths (55.9 percent) especially in the post‐disaster period. Many of these epidemics occurred due to the contamination of the drinking water sources by flash floods, and landslides. Poor sanitation, unsafe water and unhealthy living conditions contributed to major outbreaks of water‐borne diseases especially in the monsoon period claiming numerous lives.

Originality/value

Published information on natural hazards and implications on environment is limited. This paper integrated and analyzed 21 years of disaster data. A discussion of environmental implication is provided.
Strategic public relations
Authors: Khodarahmi Ehsan
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to draw the line between public relations and strategic public relations in a simple and understandable language.

Design/methodology/approach

Various definitions of both public relations and strategic public relations were cited in the paper and the common terms used in all definitions were outlined. The main discussion was then based on such similarities in order to establish the differences between the two terms. This was done by studying others' research and discussing their findings in a simple language in order to present a reliable literature review to readers and facilitate future research by providing credible references.

Findings

There is a grey line between public relations and strategic public relations; however there are differences between the two. This paper clarifies the differences by referring to genuine definitions of the two terms by experts and their analysis of the terms when it comes to practice, which calls for integration.

Research limitations/implications

There is limited research conducted in the field of strategic public relations and still many have doubts about its effectiveness. This paper gathered relevant theory and examples from the real business world to suggest integration of public relations with marketing tools with strategic management coupled with generating trust.

Practical implications

Symmetrical communications and realising appropriate timing are important to achieve objectives of strategic pubic relations. There is no magic or formula for this but to think outside the box, allow effective stakeholders' engagement and proactive monitoring of the marketplace to increasingly enhance the chances of success.

Originality/value

Succinct study of strategic public relations and introducing the term SPR, as well as emphasising the integration of appropriate techniques and tools to achieve optimal result.
The killer Kindle
Authors: Medeiros Norm
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review Amazon's Kindle, and to describe intersections between it, smart phones, and Google Books.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is designed as an opinion piece on the nature of electronic books in academia.

Findings

The article suggests e‐books will increase in popularity over time, but that the business model for individual download of e‐books will need to support institutional purchase.

Originality/value

The article should generate views, both in support of and in opposition to, the claims of the author; it should serve as a discussion starter.
IMPACT: working together to address the challenges involving mass digitization of historical printed text
Authors: Balk Hildelies , Ploeger Lieke
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to address the most urgent challenges that libraries face in the mass digitization of historical printed text: the unsatisfactory result of the conversion of scanned images to full featured electronic text by means of automated optical character recognition (OCR); the historical language barrier around 1850, caused by inadequacy of most existing lexica for historical language for OCR or post‐correction and a lack of institutional knowledge and expertise in libraries, museums and archives.

Design/methodology/approach

In the EC‐funded project IMPACT (Improving Access to Text), seven libraries, six research institutes and two private sector companies across Europe work together to address the challenges by the development of OCR software and technologies which exceed the accurateness of current state‐of‐the‐art software significantly. The IMPACT solutions focus on the entire process of recognition after the document leaves the scanner: Image processing, OCR processing (including use of dictionaries), OCR correction and Document formatting. IMPACT will also build capacity in mass digitization by sharing best practice and expertise with the cultural heritage communities in Europe.

Findings

Technical results will include toolkits for image enhancement and segmentation, an adaptive OCR engine and several prototypes of experimental OCR engines, computational lexica and several post‐correction modules including a web based collaborative correction system and a parser for structural metadata. Strategic tools include several decision support tools, guidelines, a web site with demonstrator platform, a training programme and ultimately, a sustainable Centre of Competence for mass digitization in Europe.

Originality/value

The IMPACT solutions will allow for the first time to transform large amounts of digitized historical texts into electronic text with a minimum of manual interference and a significantly improved accessibility for the user.
Digital library of the Caribbean: a user‐centric model for technology development in collaborative digitization projects
Authors: Sullivan Mark , Ochoa Marilyn N.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the technological approach used by the Digital Library of the Caribbean project to build an international collaborative library across many separate institutions with varying degrees of expertise, technological abilities, and motivations.

Design methodology/approach

A freely‐distributed digitization toolkit was developed to assist with tracking and digitization of the distributed resources. In addition, on‐site training was provided for most partners and was open for anyone in the area to attend. The strong emphasis on branding and presenting the same data within differently branded interfaces in the web presence encouraged greater participation of international partners.

Findings

Digital Library of the Caribbean (dLOC), a joint project of the University of Florida, University of Virgin Islands and Florida International University in partnership with institutions in the Caribbean and circum‐Caribbean, serves as the access point for scholars, students and citizens of interdisciplinary Caribbean and circum‐Caribbean research and gathers together a critical mass of cultural, historical and research materials originally held in archives, libraries and private collections. Involving partners in the process of usability studies, as well as conducting internal usability studies, have also assisted in the creation of a successful project web interface.

Practical implications

One concrete practical implication is the availability of a standards‐based digitization toolkit, which can be freely used by non‐members as well as members. Findings also suggest a course for digital library development in collaborative ventures. In addition, this case shows the benefits of the recurring, iterative process of performing usability studies during the development phase.

Originality/value

This paper has value for anyone looking to build collaboration in under‐represented regions.
TIDES: bridging cultural, digital and institutional divides in East Texas and beyond
Authors: Hennessey Christine , Clarke Susan , Galan Rachel
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the history of the TIDES (Teaching, Images and Digital Experiences) Program, and demonstrate how TIDES has created mutually beneficial partnerships through sharing resource and collaborating on digital initiatives with a variety of institutions in both Texas and Mexico.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to bridge the digital and cultural divide in East Texas classrooms, TIDES has formed partnerships with institutions and educators from Mexico. By offering media rich resources, adapting current curriculum for today's digital environment, and fostering international partnerships, TIDES has built a model for an education program that promotes local and global understanding.

Findings

Bringing together teachers from Mexico and Texas has resulted in a better understanding of each culture, which has translated to the classroom. These connections have been further supported by TIDES virtual expeditions, art projects, and primary source documents.

Practical implications

Over time, TIDES has grown from a small, regional project to a university supported and sustained program. TIDES has pursued new ways the university library can contribute to the university community by forging partnerships in unexpected places. TIDES also offers unique opportunities for educators to travel on teacher expeditions, experiencing firsthand the cultures they are trying to relate to and teach about.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates unique ways that libraries and library staff can reach across the aisle to other departments and institutions, working together to increase access to and visibility of their services. The TIDES Program can be used as a model in other communities, as well as a starting point for other collaborative projects.
The new Papers Past: an international collaboration between New Zealand, India, Germany, and the United States
Authors: Lanz Daniel , Zarndt Frederick , Boddie Stefan , Powell Tracy , Salgotra Vishal
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss international collaboration on the Papers Past historic newspaper digitisation project, with particular focus on how to work together across four countries for a successful outcome.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the stages of the project and provides project perspectives from all the partners. Concludes with lessons learned.

Findings

The article confirms that clear communication and requirements are essential to any collaborative project.

Originality/value

This study provides insight into how to overcome the difficulties of working collaboratively on projects across different countries and cultures.
Strategies for winning in the current and post‐recession environment
Authors: Reeves Martin , Deimler Michael S.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline a range of short‐ to medium‐term recession‐specific strategies designed to drive growth and ensure that a company survives this downturn and emerges from it competitively advantaged.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examines recession‐specific strategies designed to drive growth and ensure that a company survives.

Findings

Even after the eventual economic recovery, heightened uncertainty and volatility will remain permanent features of the business environment. As a result, resilience – the ongoing ability to anticipate and adapt to critical strategic shifts – will become an increasingly important driver of future competitive advantage. Given the likelihood that the strategic environment will remain uncertain even after the recovery, the company must institutionalize the lessons learned during the downturn. And go further to adjust the customer offering and business practices (new services, new features, new pricing models, enter or exit markets, band with other businesses in cooperative relationships).

Practical implications

The consensus is growing among economists, business leaders, and governments that the world is in the midst of a prolonged slowdown of unpredictable duration and that even when the upturn comes, the post‐crisis strategic and operating environment will almost certainly be quite different.

Originality/value

The authors warn that some of the classic strategies for gaining competitive advantage – for instance, focusing on scale – have been losing their power. Senior managers need to heed these warnings when they review their growth and survival plans.
Only the right people are strategic assets of the firm
Authors: Crain David W.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

In service‐based industries employees are in direct contact with customers, either personally or electronically, completing transactions that are part tangible and part experiential. In such industries, people have become integral to the value proposition. This paper aims to investigate this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

Case examples show how innovative service providers are learning to reconsider their service delivery employees as critical contributors to the value of the firm's offering. The paper focuses on two key questions: Is there a way to tell how people in a service firm are viewed and managed as strategic assets? How can they become strategic assets if they currently aren't?

Findings

To make people strategic assets of the firm: Criteria for selection and retention of people must be consistent with company values. Performance management must be linked through measurement to the firm's strategic goals.

Originality/value

The paper shows how in today's service‐based companies, employees are “the center of organizational performance.” Where people drive low‐cost service (Walmart) or where they become inseparable from the service (JetBlue and Starbucks), employees feel they are valued because they possess an acute awareness of the impact they have on their company's strategy.