bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A hexadomain vortex in tetragonal ferroelectrics
Authors: Münch I. , Huber J. E.
Published: July 2009

We study internal flux closures in tetragonal ferroelectric crystals using a phase-field model and demonstrate the existence of a stable polarization vortex of six domains. This hexadomain vortex exhibits a threefold rotation axis and appears as a minimum energy equilibrium state over a narrow range of aspect ratios in freestanding cuboidal nanodots. Square polarization vortices of four domains represent lower energy solutions for a wide range of aspect ratios. The hexadomain vortex offers significant potential in memory storage applications as it has eight stable states.
FeAu/FePt exchange-spring media fabricated by magnetron sputtering and postannealing
Authors: Wang Fang , Xu Xiaohong , Liang Yan , Zhang Jing , Wu Haishun
Published: July 2009

Soft/hard bilayers consisting of a FeAu layer with different thicknesses and a 20 nm L10-FePt layer have been fabricated by magnetron sputtering and postannealing. FeAu soft layer not only can promote the ordering degree of FePt layer because of the small lattice mismatch between them and the diffusion of Au atoms into FePt boundaries, but also can reduce the coercivity due to the soft/hard exchange coupling. The results of x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicate that a graded interface is formed in the FeAu/FePt bilayer after annealing, which is beneficial to reduce the pinning field. The magnetization reversal in the FeAu/FePt exchange-spring media occurs by the nucleation and propagation of a domain wall from soft layer into hard layer.
Phase separation and nanocrystal formation in GeO
Authors: Sahle Christoph J. , Sternemann Christian , Conrad Heiko , Herdt Alexej , Feroughi Omid M. , Tolan Metin , Hohl Achim , Wagner Ralph , Lützenkirchen–Hecht Dirk , Frahm Ronald , Sakko Arto , Hämäläinen Keijo
Published: July 2009

The temperature-induced phase separation (disproportionation) and Ge nanocrystal formation in bulk amorphous germanium monoxide (a-GeOx,x≈1) are studied both in situ and ex situ by measurements of the x-ray absorption near edge structure at the Ge K-edge and x-ray diffraction. The considerable amount of suboxides contained in the native a-GeO samples decreases with increasing annealing temperature. The phase separation sets in at a temperature of 260±20 °C and is almost completed at a temperature of 450±18 °C before nanocrystal formation occurs. Ge nanocrystals of a few nanometers in diameter are observed for an annealing temperature of 509±15 °C. The time dependence of the phase separation and the effect of different annealing procedures are discussed. The presented results provide important information for the production of Ge nanocrystals embedded in amorphous oxide matrices which are relevant for optoelectronic applications.
CoAl
2
O
4
–
Fe
2
O
3
p-n nanocomposite electrodes for photoelectrochemical cells
Authors: Ahn Kwang-Soon , Yan Yanfa , Kang Moon-Sung , Kim Jin-Young , Shet Sudhakar , Wang Heli , Turner John , Al-Jassim Mowafak
Published: July 2009

CoAl 2 O 4 – Fe 2 O 3  p-n nanocomposite electrodes were deposited on Ag-coated stainless-steel substrates and annealed at 800 °C. Their photoelectrochemical (PEC) properties were investigated and compared with that of p-type CoAl2O4 films. We found that the nanocomposite electrodes exhibit much improved PEC photoresponse as compared to the reference p-type CoAl2O4 electrodes. We speculate that the enhancement is due to the formation of a three-dimensional junction between p-type CoAl2O4 and n-type Fe2O3 nanoparticles, which improves electron-hole separation, thus reducing charge recombination upon light illumination.
Photonic stopband tuning of organic semiconductor distributed feedback lasers by oblique angle deposition of an intermediate high index layer
Authors: Stroisch M. , Teiwes-Morin C. , Woggon T. , Gerken M. , Lemmer U. , Forberich K. , Gombert A.
Published: July 2009

We modified the photonic band structure of organic distributed feedback lasers by introducing a patterned high index intermediate layer of tantalum pentoxide. This layer was oblique angle evaporated onto one dimensional surface gratings with a periodicity of 400 nm. The dielectric broadened the stopband due to its high refractive index compared to both the substrate and the active layer. By tuning the layer thickness we could increase the stopband from 3 to 16 nm.
Subcortical differentiation of stop consonants relates to reading and speech-in-noise perception
Authors: Hornickel Jane , Skoe Erika , Nicol Trent , Zecker Steven , Kraus Nina
Published: July 2009

Children with reading impairments have deficits in phonological awareness, phonemic categorization, speech-in-noise perception, and psychophysical tasks such as frequency and temporal discrimination. Many of these children also exhibit abnormal encoding of speech stimuli in the auditory brainstem, even though responses to click stimuli are normal. In typically developing children the auditory brainstem response reflects acoustic differences between contrastive stop consonants. The current study investigated whether this subcortical differentiation of stop consonants was related to reading ability and speech-in-noise performance. Across a group of children with a wide range of reading ability, the subcortical differentiation of 3 speech stimuli ([ba], [da], [ga]) was found to be correlated with phonological awareness, reading, and speech-in-noise perception, with better performers exhibiting greater differences among responses to the 3 syllables. When subjects were categorized into terciles based on phonological awareness and speech-in-noise performance, the top-performing third in each grouping had greater subcortical differentiation than the bottom third. These results are consistent with the view that the neural processes underlying phonological awareness and speech-in-noise perception depend on reciprocal interactions between cognitive and perceptual processes.
Large D/H variations in bacterial lipids reflect central metabolic pathways
Authors: Zhang Xinning , Gillespie Aimee L. , Sessions Alex L.
Published: July 2009

Large hydrogen-isotopic (D/H) fractionations between lipids and growth water have been observed in most organisms studied to date. These fractionations are generally attributed to isotope effects in the biosynthesis of lipids, and are frequently assumed to be approximately constant for the purpose of reconstructing climatic variables. Here, we report D/H fractionations between lipids and water in 4 cultured members of the phylum
Proteobacteria
, and show that they can vary by up to 500‰ in a single organism. The variation cannot be attributed to lipid biosynthesis as there is no significant change in these pathways between cultures, nor can it be attributed to changing substrate D/H ratios. More importantly, lipid/water D/H fractionations vary systematically with metabolism: chemoautotrophic growth (approximately −200 to −400‰), photoautotrophic growth (−150 to −250‰), heterotrophic growth on sugars (0 to −150‰), and heterotrophic growth on TCA-cycle precursors and intermediates (−50 to +200‰) all yield different fractionations. We hypothesize that the D/H ratios of lipids are controlled largely by those of NADPH used for biosynthesis, rather than by isotope effects within the lipid biosynthetic pathway itself. Our results suggest that different central metabolic pathways yield NADPH—and indirectly lipids—with characteristic isotopic compositions. If so, lipid δD values could become an important biogeochemical tool for linking lipids to energy metabolism, and would yield information that is highly complementary to that provided by
13
C about pathways of carbon fixation.
THE POPULATION OF VISCOSITY- AND GRAVITATIONAL WAVE-DRIVEN SUPERMASSIVE BLACK HOLE BINARIES AMONG LUMINOUS ACTIVE GALACTIC NUCLEI
Authors: Haiman Zoltán , Kocsis Bence , Menou Kristen
Published: July 2009

Supermassive black hole binaries (SMBHBs) in galactic nuclei are thought to be a common by-product of major galaxy mergers. We use simple disk models for the circumbinary gas and for the binary–disk interaction to follow the orbital decay of SMBHBs with a range of total masses (M) and mass ratios (q), through physically distinct regions of the disk, until gravitational waves (GWs) take over their evolution. Prior to the GW-driven phase, the viscous decay is generically in the stalled “secondary-dominated” regime. SMBHBs spend a non-negligible fraction of a fiducial time of 107 yr at orbital periods between days ≲t
orb≲ yr, and we argue that they may be sufficiently common to be detectable, provided they are luminous during these stages. A dedicated optical or X-ray survey could identify coalescing SMBHBs statistically, as a population of periodically variable quasars, whose abundance obeys the scaling N
var ∝ t
α
var within a range of periods around t
var∼ tens of weeks. SMBHBs with M ≲ 107 M
☉, with 0.5 ≲ α ≲ 1.5, would probe the physics of viscous orbital decay, whereas the detection of a population of higher-mass binaries, with α = 8/3, would confirm that their decay is driven by GWs. The lowest-mass SMBHBs (M ≲ 105–6 M
☉) enter the GW-driven regime at short orbital periods, when they are already in the frequency band of the Laser Interferometric Space Antenna (LISA). While viscous processes are negligible in the last few years of coalescence, they could reduce the amplitude of any unresolved background due to near-stationary LISA sources. We discuss modest constraints on the SMBHB population already available from existing data, and the sensitivity and sky coverage requirements for a detection in future surveys. SMBHBs may also be identified from velocity shifts in their spectra; we discuss the expected abundance of SMBHBs as a function of their orbital velocity.
High-frequency fishbones at JET: theoretical interpretation of experimental observations
Authors: Zonca F. , Chen L. , Botrugno A. , Buratti P. , Cardinali A. , Cesario R. , Ridolfini V. Pericoli
Published: July 2009

The existence of fishbone fluctuations at frequencies comparable to those of geodesic acoustic modes (GAM) and beta induced Alfvén eigenmodes (BAE) has been demonstrated theoretically in a recent work (Zonca et al
2007 Nucl. Fusion
47 1588). Here, we show that observation of fishbones at unexpectedly high frequencies in JET (Nabais et al 2005 Phys. Plasmas
12 102509) is well interpreted as experimental evidence of high (GAM/BAE range) frequency fishbones and discuss the insights concerning both supra-thermal particles as well as thermal plasma properties that can be obtained from experimental observations.
Physics of penetration of resonant magnetic perturbations used for Type I edge localized modes suppression in tokamaks
Authors: Bécoulet M. , Huysmans G. , Garbet X. , Nardon E. , Howell D. , Garofalo A. , Schaffer M. , Evans T. , Shaing K. , Cole A. , Park J.-K. , Cahyna P.
Published: July 2009

Non-linear reduced MHD modelling of the toroidally rotating plasma response to resonant magnetic perturbations (RMPs) is presented for DIII-D and ITER-like typical parameter and RMP coils. The non-linear cylindrical reduced MHD code was adapted to take into account toroidal rotation and plasma braking mechanisms such as resonant one (∼j × B) and the neoclassical toroidal viscosity (NTV) calculated for low collisionality regimes (‘1/ν’ and ‘ν’). Counter toroidal rotation by NTV is predicted for ITER with the proposed RMP coils in 1/ν-limit. Resonant braking is localized near resonant surfaces and is weak compared with NTV in the 1/ν regime for typical DIII-D and ITER parameters. Toroidal rotation leads to the effective screening of RMPs that is larger for stronger rotation and lower resistivity, resulting mainly in central islands screening. Non-resonant helical harmonics (q ≠ m/n) in RMP spectrum are not influenced by plasma rotation, and hence penetrate and are important in NTV mechanism.
Real time control of plasmas and ECRH systems on TCV
Authors: Paley J.I. , Berrino J. , Coda S. , Cruz N. , Duval B.P. , Felici F. , Goodman T.P. , Martin Y. , Moret J.M. , Piras F. , Rodriques A.P. , Santos B. , Varandas C.A.F.
Published: July 2009

Developments in the real time control hardware on Tokamak à Configuration Variable (TCV) coupled with the flexibility of plasma shaping and electron cyclotron (EC) heating and current drive actuators are opening many opportunities to perform real time experiments and develop algorithms and methods for fusion applications. The ability to control magnetohydrodynamic instabilities is particularly important for achieving high performance fusion plasmas and EC is envisaged as a key actuator in maintaining high performance. We have successfully demonstrated control of the sawtooth instability using the EC launcher injection angle to modify the current profile around the q =1 surface. This paper presents an overview of recent real time control experiments on TCV, developments in the hardware and algorithms together with plans for the future.
Simultaneous realization of a high density edge transport barrier and an improved L-mode on CHS
Authors: Minami Takashi , Okamura Shoichi , Suzuki Chihiro , Matsuo Keiji , Oishi, Tetsutarou , Akiyama Tsuyoshi , Isobe Mitsutaka , Ida Katsumi , Nakano Haruhisa , Fujisawa Akihide , Nagaoka Kenichi , Yoshinuma Mikiro , Yoshimura Yasuo , Toi Kazuo , Ohshima Shinsuke , Takeuchi Masaki , Iguchi Harukazu , Nishimura Shin , Shimizu Akihiro , Matsuoka Keisuke , Takahashi Chihiro
Published: July 2009

An edge transport barrier (ETB) formation and an improved L-mode (IL mode) have been simultaneously realized in the high density region (
) on the Compact Helical System (CHS). When the ETB is formed during the IL mode, the density reduction in the edge region is suppressed by the barrier formation. As a result of the continuous increase in the temperature by the IL mode, the stored energy during the combined mode increased up to the maximum stored energy (W
p ∼ 9.4 kJ) recorded in the CHS experiments. The plasma pressure in the peripheral region increases up to three times compared with the L-mode, and the large edge plasma pressure gradient is formed accompanying the pedestal structure. This is caused by the anomalous transport reduction that is confirmed by the sharp drop in the density fluctuation in the edge region. The neutral particle density reduction in the peripheral region and the metallic impurity accumulation in the core plasma are simultaneously observed during the high density ETB formation.
Flux-expansion divertor studies in TJ-II
Authors: Castejón F. , Velasco J.L. , López-Fraguas A. , Tarancón A. , Guasp J. , Tabarés F. , Pedrosa M.A. , de la Cal E. , Ochando M.A.
Published: July 2009

The flux-expansion divertor concept is theoretically explored in TJ-II. This concept seems to be most suitable for this flexible stellarator in which the positions and the order of the resonances can be varied. As a first step, a family of configurations that exhibit flux expansion is identified. Then, a three-dimensional map of the collisional particle flux has been obtained for two different plasma regimes using the full-f Monte Carlo code ISDEP (Integrator of Stochastic Differential Equations in Plasmas), which computes the ion guiding-centre trajectories. The particle trajectories rather than the field lines must be considered since ion orbits can drift from the field lines in TJ-II and the plasma electric field and the collisionality must be considered in such calculations. We have checked that it is possible to strongly reduce the heat and particle fluxes by intercepting the trajectories at a given zone of the space. These calculations are done for thermal ions and for fast particles coming from the neutral beam injection heating. Future studies, possibly including the creation of an ergodic zone, will determine the best strategy for intercepting the trajectories.
Intrinsic toroidal velocity near the edge of DIII-D H-mode plasmas
Authors: deGrassie J.S. , Groebner R.J. , Burrell K.H. , Solomon W.M.
Published: July 2009

The intrinsic toroidal velocity, V
ϕ, in DIII-D (Luxon 2002 Nucl. Fusion
42 614) H-modes is measured to be nonzero in the pedestal region, in the direction of the plasma current, co-I
p. Intrinsic, or spontaneous, velocity is that which arises with no known external momentum injection. This intrinsic velocity is measured to scale roughly linearly with the local ion temperature, T
i, V
ϕ ∼ T
i, in the pedestal and in the edge region just inside the pedestal. With either co-I
p, or counter-I
p neutral beam injected torque, the pedestal velocity is accelerated in the direction of the torque; it is not a fixed boundary condition. A simple model of thermal ion orbit loss predicts the sign of V
ϕ, a relevant magnitude for V
ϕ, and the approximate scaling V
ϕ ∼ T
i. This model for a boundary condition on the intrinsic toroidal velocity gives a result of approximate diamagnetic form, V
ϕ ∼ εp
T
i/LB
θ, where L is a scale length, B
θ the poloidal magnetic field and εp a small numerical parameter. This model is a local calculation of velocity, an approximation to the inherently nonlocal region of the pedestal where the thermal ion banana width is comparable to the pedestal width. In this model we also assume that the loss cone in velocity space is empty; no collisions are considered. A recent particle simulation of the pedestal region of a DIII-D NBI-driven H-mode discharge that includes collisions indicates that thermal ion orbit loss results in a co-I
p velocity just inside the last closed flux surface (Chang and Ku 2008 Phys. Plasmas
15 062510-1). Thus, we do not expect that nonlocality nor finite collisionality wash out the effect. Inside the pedestal our model shows that thermal ion orbit loss is negligible. In this region of the edge we also measure a similar scaling for the intrinsic velocity several pedestal widths inside the pedestal location, V
ϕ ∼ T
i. One mechanism that could maintain the T
i scaling inwards from the pedestal is the model of an inward momentum pinch velocity proportional to the gradient of T
i.
Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and Licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) Root Extract Combinations Increase Hepatocarcinoma Cell (Hep‐G2) Viability
Authors: Popovich David G. , Yeo Shi Yun , Zhang Wei
Published: July 2009

The combined cytoactive effects of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) and licorice (Glycyrrhiza uralensis) root extracts were investigated in a hepatocarcinoma cell line (Hep‐G2). An isobolographic analysis was utilized to express the possibility of synergistic, additive or antagonistic interaction between the two extracts. Both ginseng and licorice roots are widely utilized in traditional Chinese medicine preparations to treat a variety of ailments. However, the effect of the herbs in combination is currently unknown in cultured Hep‐G2 cells. Ginseng (GE) and licorice (LE) extracts were both able to reduce cell viability. The LC50 values, after 72 h, were found to be 0.64 ± 0.02 mg/mL (GE) and 0.53 ± 0.02 mg/mL (LE). An isobologram was plotted, which included five theoretical LC50s calculated, based on the fixed fraction method of combination ginseng to licorice extracts to establish a line of additivity. All combinations of GE to LE (1/5, 1/3, 1/2, 2/3, 4/5) produced an effect on Hep‐G2 cell viability but they were all found to be antagonistic. The LC50 of fractions 1/3, 1/2, 2/3 were 23%, 21% and 18% above the theoretical LC50. Lactate dehydrogenase release indicated that as the proportion of GE to LE increased beyond 50%, the influence on membrane permeability increased. Cell‐cycle analysis showed a slight but significant arrest at the G1 phase of cell cycle for LE. Both GE and LE reduced Hep‐G2 viability independently; however, the combinations of both extracts were found to have an antagonistic effect on cell viability and increased cultured Hep‐G2 survival.
Eleucine indica Possesses Antioxidant, Antibacterial and Cytotoxic Properties
Authors: Al-Zubairi Adel S. , Abdul Ahmad Bustamam , Abdelwahab Siddig Ibrahim , Peng Chew Yuan , Mohan Syam , Elhassan Manal Mohamed
Published: July 2009

The use of evidence‐based complementary and alternative medicine is increasing rapidly. Eleucine indica (EI) is traditionally used in ailments associated with liver and kidneys. The therapeutic benefit of the medicinal plants is often attributed to their antioxidant properties. Therefore, the aim of this study was to screen the hexane, dicholoromethane, ethyl acetate (EA) and methanol extracts (MeTH) of EI for their antioxidant, antibacterial and anti‐cancer effects using total phenolic contents (TPCs) and DPPH, disc diffusion method and MTT cytotoxicity assays, respectively. The MeTH was showed to have the highest TPC and scavenging activity (77.7%) on DPPH assay, followed by EA (64.5%), hexane (47.19%) and DCM (40.83%) extracts, whereas the MeTH showed no inhibitory effect on all tested bacteria strains. However, the EA extract exhibited a broad spectrum antibacterial activity against all tested bacteria except Bacillus subtilis, in which this bacterium was found to be resistant to all EI extracts. Meanwhile, hexane extract was demonstrated to have a remarkable antibacterial activity against methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, while the dicholoromethane extract did not exhibit significant activity against P. aeruginosa. None of the extracts showed significant cytotoxic activity towards MCF‐7, HT‐29 and CEM‐SS human cancer cell lines after 72 h incubation time (IC50 > 30 μg/ml). These results demonstrate that the extract prepared from the EI possesses antioxidant activity in vitro in addition to antibacterial properties. Further investigations are needed to verify the antioxidant effects in vitro and in vivo.
WPP-Domain Proteins Mimic the Activity of the HSC70-1 Chaperone in Preventing Mistargeting of RanGAP1-Anchoring Protein WIT1
Authors: Brkljacic Jelena , Zhao Qiao , Meier Iris
Published: July 2009

Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) tryptophan-proline-proline (WPP)-domain proteins, WPP1 and WPP2, are plant-unique, nuclear envelope-associated proteins of unknown function. They have sequence similarity to the nuclear envelope-targeting domain of plant RanGAP1, the GTPase activating protein of the small GTPase Ran. WPP domain-interacting tail-anchored protein 1 (WIT1) and WIT2 are two Arabidopsis proteins containing a coiled-coil domain and a C-terminal predicted transmembrane domain. They are required for RanGAP1 association with the nuclear envelope in root tips. Here, we show that WIT1 also binds WPP1 and WPP2 in planta, we identify the chaperone heat shock cognate protein 70-1 (HSC70-1) as in vivo interaction partner of WPP1 and WPP2, and we show that HSC70-1 interacts in planta with WIT1. WIT1 and green fluorescent protein (GFP)-WIT1 are targeted to the nuclear envelope in Arabidopsis. In contrast, GFP-WIT1 forms large cytoplasmic aggregates when overexpressed transiently in Nicotiana benthamiana leaf epidermis cells. Coexpression of HSC70-1 significantly reduces GFP-WIT1 aggregation and permits association of most GFP-WIT1 with the nuclear envelope. Significantly, WPP1 and WPP2 show the same activity. A WPP1 mutant with reduced affinity for GFP-WIT1 fails to decrease its aggregation. While the WPP-domain proteins act on a region of WIT1 containing the coiled-coil domain, HSC70-1 additionally acts on the C-terminal transmembrane domain. Taken together, our data suggest that both HSC70-1 and the WPP-domain proteins play a role in facilitating WIT1 nuclear envelope targeting, which is, to our knowledge, the first described in planta activity for the WPP-domain proteins.
The impact of down‐zoning on land values
Authors: Gottlieb Paul D. , Adelaja Adesoji
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to build a mathematical model to determine the price of an acre of developable land, whether it is part of a large open tract (farm) or a smaller residential parcel that can legally be subdivided. The primary purpose of the model is to explore the effect of various minimum lot‐size regulations on the price of these two types of vacant land. The study also attempts to explain apparently conflicting findings that have recently appeared in empirical studies of “down‐zoning” in the states of Maryland and New Jersey.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical model of land value is based on principles of asset valuation under uncertainty at various locations within a metropolitan area. The price of an acre of land is modeled as the present value of a stream of indirect utility to homeowners, and economic rents to farmers, developers or landlords, depending on an endogenous date of development. The cases of New Jersey and Maryland are compared using parameterized simulations, with minimum lot size allowed to vary.

Findings

The simulations reconcile earlier empirical studies on Maryland and New Jersey. The observed absence of any price effect of down‐zoning in rural Maryland appears to be caused by the fact that development is not imminent there. In New Jersey, development is imminent virtually everywhere, and a high proportion of today's vacant land value is due to its development potential. This means that down‐zoning will typically lead to dramatic declines in vacant land value in New Jersey.

Research limitations/implications

The study relies on state averages, so its results should not be applied to particular parcels in Maryland or New Jersey. The study incorporates uncertainty in expected developer profits, but not in future political decisions.

Practical implications

By clarifying the context in which zoning changes will or will not lead to decline in a landowner's asset value, the study can inform legal and political debates over re‐zonings in the USA. Included in these debates is the claim that some re‐zonings violate the “takings” clause of the USA constitution.

Originality/value

The majority of papers on this subject are empirical, using a hedonic or an appraisal methodology. This paper provides a coherent theoretical model of per‐acre land prices under different levels of zoning restriction. It can be used for simulation or prediction with relatively few input parameters.
Tough times call for collaborative leaders
Authors: Archer David , Cameron Alex
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the development of collaborative leadership skills to address an identified gap in senior management capability.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is based on research carried out by IPSOS Mori consisting of interviews with 100 directors across the public and private sector.

Findings

The research found that 64 per cent of those questioned identified a gap in collaborative leadership skills and senior levels and this rose to 73 per cent of those who worked for companies with more than 5,000 employees. The paper highlights a key capability for a collaborative leader – the ability to handle conflict in a productive manner.

Practical implications

The paper analyses five areas of development for a collaborative leader with regard to conflict: understanding your own relationship to conflict; understanding the needs of groups; holding difficult conversations; finding the greater good; and mediating in other people's conflict. In each case it proposes practical steps to help leaders and development professionals handle these issues.

Originality/value

Investing in collaborative leadership capability is a priority for many businesses in these turbulent times. As economic pressures increase, the ability to work efficiently with critical business partners is a necessity. It is all too evident that ineffective collaboration and conflict in business relationships wastes time and money: these days this is something no one can afford. The skills outlined in this paper point the way for training managers to develop key people in their organisations to handle conflict and build effective relationships in tough times and in good.
Action theory and the training and performance application: performance templates
Authors: Lyons Paul
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper sets forth a description and explanation of how action theory serves as the foundation for the training and performance management approach, performance templates (P‐T). In recent years the efficacy of performance templates, given its limitations, has been demonstrated; however, the theory base for the P‐T approach had not been sufficiently developed. This paper aims to examine the content and efficacy of performance templates.

Design/methodology/approach

The P‐T method is set forth in detail with some examples. The theoretical bases of the P‐T approach, a training and development partnership among trainers, managers, and employees, are explained in detail.

Findings

The layered features of the action theory of Michael Frese fit very well with the interpersonal and intrapersonal events that make up the creation and use of performance templates. The P‐T method requires considerable mental work and the action theory helps explain the cognitive events that occur.

Practical implications

The paper sets forth the features of action theory, especially the foundation for metacognitive heuristics, that is, the short‐cut reasoning tools that individuals use to aid decision making. Aside from the application of the P‐T approach, this paper offers trainers a set of examples regarding how the trainer may influence learning by attending to the dynamics of metacognitive heuristics and cognitive style, concepts that have received very little attention in the training literature.

Originality/value

Action theory offers many features that help explain the regulation of learning and behavior. The template approach not only adds to the repertoire of training methods, it helps to illuminate the high‐order cognitive functioning that helps individuals regulate their learning and performance.
BVRLA ICFM professional fleet consultant development programme
Authors: Leggett Nora , Snook Jeremy
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The BVRLA ICFM Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme, developed in conjunction with the ICFM, is targeted at sales and business development executives within BVRLA member companies. The four‐day training programme equips participants with the skills and knowledge to align their sales role more closely with the demands and responsibilities of the client fleet manager. This paper aims to describe the programme.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the tailored approach of the programme.

Findings

The first module covers the principles of fleet management, with a focus on understanding the role and responsibilities of a fleet manager; the principles of asset and risk management; and the influence of a client's stake holders, company culture and market segmentation. It also looks at wider concerns influencing fleet choice, including the environment. The second module covers the delivery of fleet solutions; the various budgetary and taxation considerations; key acquisition and disposal options; supplier management; and the relevant legal and health and safety obligations.

Practical implications

The new programme, launched in October 2008, has been enthusiastically welcomed by the leasing and fleet management industry, which has seen its customers grow more sophisticated in their business processes and, as a consequence, ever more demanding of their service providers. BVRLA members recognise the value in an industry‐acknowledged qualification that demonstrates both their investment in employee development and their commitment to understanding the needs of their customers. The Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme course is externally accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management.

Originality/value

The paper is the first detailed description of the origins, design, delivery of the BVRLA ICFM Professional Fleet Consultant Development Programme.
Historical, practical, and theoretical perspectives on green management
Authors: Pane Haden Stephanie S. , Oyler Jennifer D. , Humphreys John H.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive definition of green management. In the quest to systematically develop an inclusive definition, it seeks to take an exploratory approach to investigate the existing literature on green management from three different perspectives: first, tracing the history of how this concept emerged over time; second, considering the practices in which green organizations actually engage, focusing specifically on one company that has been recognized and honored for its extraordinary efforts toward sustainability; and third, reviewing the current developments in critical theory related to environmental issues and business.

Design/methodology/approach

This exploratory review of the literature uses a tripartite approach to forge a sound definition and conceptualization of the term green management. Exploration of green management from the three angles mentioned revealed some commonalities and consistencies in the terminology and concepts. Factors common to the three perspectives were included in the proposed definition of green management.

Findings

The ultimate product of the review is a comprehensive definition of green management. The identification of several commonalities using a tripartite approach lends support to the proposed definition and indicates to both researchers and practitioners that certain factors should not be ignored when attempting to study or practice green management.

Originality/value

To the authors' knowledge, green management has never been collectively reviewed from these three perspectives and the systematic approach resulted in a comprehensive definition that can help coordinate future research efforts around a common conceptualization.
The world is one and all things are in it
Authors: Agatiello Osvaldo R.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to suggest that a more ambitious and structured ethical approach for environmental decision making is essential at this point of maturity of public and private management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reflects on the fact that the citizen‐consumer of our time views the environment as an integral part of collective well being and as a repository of public goods. Echoing authoritative sources that mull over, adopt and advocate for environmental conventions, agreements, regulations, guidelines, standards and good practices for countries, country groupings, industries, organizations and even households, the paper proposes specific steps to address the ethical queries concerned.

Findings

Calls for an integrated agenda for the global commons, based on a global policymaking mechanism, especially a global law and a global economic and financial system, keep proliferating, with the tacit understanding that higher ethical standards are of the essence. This implies that in matters environmental having the science, the economics and the politics right are necessary but not sufficient conditions to address questions that may fundamentally and irreversibly affect our present, our future and generations to come; and that entrepreneurs, corporate agents and public authorities need to deal with environmental conservation and management with resort to an ethical mode of reasoning and decision making as well.

Originality/value

Unlike a few decades ago, sound environmental conservation and management nowadays are largely viewed not only as public priorities, but also as moral imperatives. The paper calls for an unprecedented step further – to step up the ethical conversation about the environment and to embed the mechanism in the policymaking and compliance process, including through ethical audits.
Assessing the greenness effort for European firms
Authors: Yu Vincent , Ting Hsiu‐I , Jim Wu Yen‐Chun
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is twofold: first, to explore whether a linkage between environmental effects and financial performance exists; and second, to investigate whether firms displaying more environmental effort show a more significantly positive relationship between environmental performance and financial performance than those displaying less green effort.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopts correlation analysis of a sample comprising of 51 European companies from 14 industries across 15 countries to investigate the possible relationship between firm environmental performance (including three measures: sustainable value, sustainable value margin, and return to cost ratio) and financial performance.

Findings

The paper does not find a positive relationship between firm environmental performance and financial performance. Both the Pearson correlations and Spearman's rho are statistically insignificant for both the full sample and the carbon‐intensive sectors. When the lag effect on firm financial performance is considered, the result remains the same. The result suggests that corporate good guys in Europe do not necessarily reap the rewards of their green effort.

Research limitations/implications

Future research may investigate the relationship between firm environmental efforts and financial performance across industries with different technologies and product life cycles, or industries with similar pollutions/emissions or usage pattern of natural resources, such as the petroleum industry and the transportation industry.

Practical implications

Although it was not possible to find a positive association between environmental performance and financial performance, still, being perceived as a green company may improve a company's image and reputation, thus attracting more talented workers and green‐conscious customers.

Originality/value

The paper provides a new perspective on the relationship between firm environmental performance and financial performance in monetary terms by taking a broader view at the environmental outcomes. While past studies only measure firm environmental performance based on damaging impacts to the environment, the research also considers the efficiency of resource use by the firm.
“Keen to be green” organizations: a focused rules approach to accountability
Authors: Dwyer Rocky J.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to outline and discuss how to incorporate a practical‐focused rules approach to guide strategic processes to enhance competitiveness and growth, while improving performance measurement and accountability of green organization initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

An examination of theoretical perspectives was undertaken to determine the relevance of the theory to guide business flexibility and decision making to enhance competitiveness and growth, while enabling the implementation of a green agenda, in a changing business environment.

Findings

Understanding the importance of flexibility, strategic processes would enable individuals and organizations to better respond to green factors associated with changing business opportunities and customer demands.

Practical implications

The paper advocates that an understanding of the focused rules concept can enable business leaders to create green yet practical business strategies to build organizational flexibility, which in turn will lead to enhanced competitiveness and growth opportunities.

Originality/value

The paper presents an overview of the literature which enhances both personal knowledge and understanding at the theoretical and practical levels, enabling business leaders to gain insight into the inherent factors that may be influenced to advance organizational environmental goals and objectives.
The China connection: challenges and opportunities in linking Asian libraries
Authors: Wei Karen T.
Published: July 2009

Purpose

China's rise as a major player in world affairs has contributed significantly to the global interest in the study of Chinese language, society, and culture. Its emerging importance has also increased the need for China‐related library materials and information provision to China scholars and the general public in recent years. This paper seeks to trace the historical transformation and renewed interest in China studies and the growing demand placed on Asian or East Asian libraries that support China studies in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is a general review of the issues and challenges facing libraries in the West, which serve Chinese scholars, with the increasing demand for China‐related library materials and information resources, as well as for delivery of such information resources.

Findings

The paper identifies the issues and challenges facing libraries in the West that serve China scholars. The importance of collection building in China studies, the role of Chinese studies librarians, professional support for East Asian studies librarians in North America, and the changing outlook of academic libraries is highlighted.

Practical implications

In a world that is increasingly more global, Asian or East Asian libraries must gain better understanding if the issues and best practices to effectively provide information service through collaboration and resource sharing with partners in Asia to achieve true global collections.

Originality/value

The paper presents possible measures that can be undertaken to bridge the difference between the East and West. Specifically, the paper addresses concerns libraries outside China encounter and proposes suggestions regarding resource sharing, balancing a Chinese collection in a networked environment, financial challenges, continuing education, and bibliographic control.
A survey study of the 2007 Chinese e‐books consortium
Authors: Huarng Kun‐Huang , Winnie Wang Hui‐Chuan
Published: July 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to share the successful experiences and suggestions from the 2007 Chinese e‐books consortium.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of the participant libraries of the 2007 Chinese e‐books consortium was conducted. Survey results were analyzed.

Findings

The consortium improved the Chinese collections with perpetual ownership, and demonstrated the bargaining power that exists through a consortium. Most participants would consider joining the consortium in the future.

Research limitations/implications

Since the 2007 Chinese e‐books consortium has only just been completed, the usage statistics have not been compiled. It will be interesting to see how readers adapt to the Chinese e‐books in the future.

Practical implications

The results have practical implications for the operation of library consortia.

Originality/value

This study provides the latest opinions and suggestions from the consortium participants, which can be valuable to those who are interested in initiating new library consortia. The study results can also be of value to librarians who are considering joining any library consortia.
Electronic Resources Australia: a national approach to purchasing
Authors: Missingham Roxanne
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to provide information and analysis of a national purchasing consortium for Australian libraries, Electronic Resources Australia (ERA).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the political and library community factors, which influenced the development of a national approach to purchasing. It outlines the needs of users as expressed to a parliamentary inquiry, the four‐year national consultation and results of the first two years of operation of the consortium.

Findings

ERA now provides access to quality online resources for approximately 8.5 million Australians. The work has led to careful consideration of issues including subscription periods, governance, funding models, “best price” and collaboration with vendors for marketing and promotion. Further work needs to continue on marketing and product range to ensure the long‐term success of the consortium.

Research limitations/implications

While a comparison is made with the New Zealand model, EPIC, comparisons are not made with other consortia models.

Practical implications

Key issues in consultation could be applicable to library sector or national collaboration.

Originality/value

The paper provides insight into a model for which very detailed policy and practical development was required.
Theory, research, and practice in library management 7
Authors: Gwyer Roisin
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the literature on influencing upwards in organisations for practical approaches, which can be used in libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

The literature is examined to see if there is any agreement on which factors are successful when influencing upwards within organisations. Both management and library literatures are examined and a list of possible influencing behaviours is complied.

Findings

Although there is little specific library literature on this topic there is enough in the management literature to suggest influence strategies and behaviours which librarians might consider using in order to increase influence within organisations. Influence of the core group in particular is looked at as is the correlation between influence and leadership style. As well as identifying specific influence strategies there is some discussion of the underpinning values of librarianship and how these can be used to influence the organisation more widely.

Originality/value

This paper provides food for thought for library practitioners on how they might work within organisations to take the library's agenda forward.
Predicted earnings and the propensity for self‐employment
Authors: Hammarstedt Mats
Published: July 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of the predicted earnings differential between self‐employment and wage‐employment on self‐employment propensities in Sweden using a large data set from the year 2003.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis in the paper is based on the presumption that the individual chooses to work in either the self‐employed or the wage‐employed sector. The separate earnings functions for the self‐employed and the wage‐employed are estimated in order to predict an individual's earnings in each sector. In order to overcome selectivity problems a Heckman approach is used at this stage. Finally, a structural probit model, where the difference in predicted earnings from the two sectors is included as an independent variable, is estimated.

Findings

The main result is that the predicted differential between self‐employment and wage‐employment earnings plays an important role for the self‐employment decision and that an increase in this earnings differential will lead to a higher self‐employment rate and to an increase in total employment in Sweden.

Originality/value

The policy relevance of this question is evident since previous research has shown that self‐employed individuals do not only create jobs for themselves but also for others. Thus, an increase in the earnings from self‐employment relative to the earnings from wage‐employment will increase the self‐employment rate as well as total employment.