bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Closing the circadian negative feedback loop: FRQ-dependent clearance of WC-1 from the nucleus
Authors: Hong Christian I. , Ruoff Peter , Loros Jennifer J. , Dunlap Jay C.
Published: November 2008

In Neurospora crassa, a transcription factor, WCC, activates the transcription of frq. FRQ forms homodimers as well as complexes with an RNA helicase, FRH, and the WCC, and translocates into the nucleus to inactivate the WCC, closing the time-delayed negative feedback loop. The detailed mechanism for closing this loop, however, remains incompletely understood. In particular within the nucleus, the low amount of FRQ compared with that of WC-1 creates a conundrum: How can the nuclear FRQ inactivate the larger amount of WCC? One possibility is that FRQ might function as a catalytic component in phosphorylation-dependent inhibition. However, in silico experiments reveal that stoichiometric noncatalytic binding and inhibition can generate a robust oscillator, even when nuclear FRQ levels are substantially lower than nuclear WCC, so long as there is FRQ-dependent clearance of WC-1 from the nucleus. Based on this model, we can predict and now demonstrate that WC-1 stability cycles, that WC-1 is stable in the absence of FRQ, and that physical binding between FRQ and WCC is essential for closure of the negative feedback loop. Moreover, and consistent with a noncatalytic clearance-based model for inhibition, appreciable amounts of the nuclear FRQ:WCC complex accumulate at some times of day, comprising as much as 10% of the nuclear WC-1.
Allele-specific gene expression patterns in primary leukemic cells reveal regulation of gene expression by CpG site methylation
Authors: Milani Lili , Lundmark Anders , Nordlund Jessica , Kiialainen Anna , Flaegstad Trond , Jonmundsson Gudmundur , Kanerva Jukka , Schmiegelow Kjeld , Gunderson Kevin L. , Lönnerholm Gudmar , Syvänen Ann-Christine
Published: November 2008

To identify genes that are regulated by cis-acting functional elements in acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) we determined the allele-specific expression (ASE) levels of 2529 genes by genotyping a genome-wide panel of single nucleotide polymorphisms in RNA and DNA from bone marrow and blood samples of 197 children with ALL. Using a reproducible, quantitative genotyping method and stringent criteria for scoring ASE, we found that 16% of the analyzed genes display ASE in multiple ALL cell samples. For most of the genes, the level of ASE varied largely between the samples, from 1.4-fold overexpression of one allele to apparent monoallelic expression. For genes exhibiting ASE, 55% displayed bidirectional ASE in which overexpression of either of the two SNP alleles occurred. For bidirectional ASE we also observed overall higher levels of ASE and correlation with the methylation level of these sites. Our results demonstrate that CpG site methylation is one of the factors that regulates gene expression in ALL cells.
A proposed framework for strategy implementation in the Indian context
Authors: Kazmi Azhar
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the extant literature on strategy implementation with a view to highlight the pitfalls and use these to build a new framework that could be more relevant to the conditions existing in the Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper provides a review of strategy implementation frameworks available both in strategy literature and in strategy texts to identify the main pitfalls in effective strategy implementation and then proceeds to propose a framework that could be more suitable to the Indian context. This proposed framework is then applied and described in the context of a case study of the Reliance group of companies of India.

Findings

The proposed strategy implementation framework covers many of the aspects hitherto neglected in the frameworks suggested by researchers and authors more attuned to the Western context. Two of the major issues in strategy implementation not covered in the existing framework are of procedural and project implementation that may be considered as relevant in the Indian context.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed framework is demonstrated in the case of only one Indian company. The efficacy of the framework need to be further investigated.

Practical implications

Application of the proposed framework is likely to result in a more comprehensive coverage of the vital issues in strategy implementation that are expected to do away with the pitfalls that are commonly experienced in the process of strategy implementation.

Originality/value

The paper proposes a new framework of strategy implementation based on the unique requirements of the Indian context.
A portal to student learning: what instruction librarians can learn from video game design
Authors: Schiller Nicholas
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The paper aims to present a methodology for analyzing the pedagogical content of video games and to present the findings of one such analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

The pedagogical analysis presented here consists of three parts – an introduction to the new media of video games, a method for analyzing video games, and lastly, the results of analyzing the pedagogical content of the video game Portal.

Findings

The analysis uncovered significant pedagogical content and useful methodologies used in the design of the video game Portal.

Practical implications

The pedagogies and design methods used in the game Portal can help librarians engage and educate students of the gaming generation in information literacy tasks.

Originality/value

This paper provides a model for pedagogical analysis of the video game medium and practical techniques taken from an excellent representative of that medium.
This is jeopardy! An exciting approach to learning in library instruction
Authors: Walker Billie E.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the usefulness of a library version of the popular television show Jeopardy as an active learning technique for library instruction.

Design/methodology/approach

The review considers the effectiveness of Library Jeopardy as an active learning technique in one‐shot library instruction.

Findings

The benefits arising from the use of Library Jeopardy in the classroom are: it motivates students to actively participate in class and assume more responsibility for learning; it reinforces students' learning of information literacy concepts previously taught, and it adds variety to class sessions by providing a fun environment for instructor and students alike.

Practical implications

The focus on a game such as Library Jeopardy demonstrates that instruction librarians can reap the benefits of using this active learning technique as an additional mode of instruction.

Originality/value

This paper aids the discussion that educational games can be used as an active learning technique in library instruction.
The librarian's role in motivating language learners: tales from an Eastern Washington college town
Authors: Reznowski Gabriella
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the benefits of contact between the language librarian and a first year language class at Washington State University, for the purpose of promoting library resources to inform language learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses sociolinguistic research as it applies to motivating language learners, and promoting materials for language acquisition. By keeping abreast of sociolinguistic literature, librarians can choose the best approach for supporting, motivating, and scaffolding first year language learners through both library instruction and library collections.

Findings

The experience described provides a strategy for making contact with teaching faculty, promoting library materials, and the tips for planning and delivering a library instruction session on language materials to a first year language class.

Practical implications

This approach can be particularly valuable for librarians who wish to initiate contact with language students in the early years of instruction, both to familiarize them with the library and its resources, and to support and encourage their language learning activities.

Originality/value

This paper describes a powerful approach to connecting with a population of students who traditionally do not have contact with the library until they are in their third year of language study.
Values: the invisible “ante” in information literacy learning?
Authors: Harris Benjamin R.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The ACRL Competency Standards related to learners' values and value systems has not been interrogated in relation to information literacy theory or practice. This paper aims to analyze the inclusion of values in these and other guidelines and seeks evidence of the development of this topic in the literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A comparative review of information literacy standards related to values/value systems was conducted. An analysis of the literature engaging issues related to personal or community values related to information was completed. Suggestions for continued work were based on these findings.

Findings

Competency standards related to values/value systems are out of place in guidelines designed to assist in the assessment of information literacy instruction. Instead, it is more likely that information literacy development is a form of values education.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is needed to locate specific personal and community values related to information literacy. This research should begin with information‐related values of student communities, professional organizations and other groups.

Practical implications

Readers will develop a greater understanding of professional and personal values in relation to information literacy and the standards designed to help librarians and others.

Originality/value

This paper establishes a basis for a comparative analysis of information literacy standards drafted by different groups. The discussion on the place and purpose of values‐related objectives in the 2000 ACRL Competency Standards and a review of the literature on this topic are unique to this paper.
Investigating the efficacy of embedment: experiments in information literacy integration
Authors: Bowler Meagan , Street Kori
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This paper seeks to present the findings of a series of experiments in embedding a librarian at a variety of levels into the undergraduate classroom. This study aimed to determine whether different levels of librarian embedment correlated with improvement in undergraduate students' information literacy (IL) skills.

Design/methodology/approach

Students from five undergraduate History courses and two undergraduate Women's Studies courses participated in the study. A librarian was embedded in each of the courses, at a variety of levels across courses. All student assignments were graded using a standardized rubric. Students' IL skills were assessed using the research component of the rubric, which measured their ability to locate, retrieve, evaluate, and incorporate sources into their assignments. Students' research and overall scores on their initial problem‐based learning (PBL) assignments and written assignments were compared to their final assignment scores in order to assess improvement over the course of the term.

Findings

There was significant improvement in students' scores when a librarian was conspicuously and obviously embedded in the academic classroom. Students' scores showed little improvement when the librarian was embedded but not explicitly identified as a specialist in information literacy, and when the researchers attempted to embed information literacy seamlessly in the classroom.

Research limitations/implications

The research was conducted only in courses in the Humanities.

Practical implications

This study suggests that students' IL skills improve most when IL is identified in the classroom as a specialized subject taught by a highly trained specialist. The methodology used may be useful for others studying the impact of IL instruction.

Originality/value

Although embedding has been studied and reported on in the literature in a variety of contexts, the study of different levels of embedding, quantified using the same rubric is unique.
China, business and sustainability: understanding the strategic convergence
Authors: Park Jacob
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue that, despite the attention given to China's rising importance in the international marketplace, there has not been a corresponding attention given to the sustainability dimensions i.e. social and environmental dimensions of this economic development trajectory. Specifically, what type of business strategy can and will best serve the economic, environmental and social needs of China, and what role if any can the private sector play facilitating the development of such a strategy?

Design/methodology/approach

The paper first examines the evolving relationship between business and sustainable development. Second, the sustainability challenge within the regional context in the Asia‐Pacific region is outlined. Third, the sustainability challenges posed by China's rise in the global economy are analyzed and the impacts of these challenges on current and future business strategies examined. Findings.– In order to fully understand the strategic convergence between China, business and sustainability concerns, it is important to understand the evolving relationship between business and sustainable development as well as the sustainability challenge within the regional context in the Asia‐Pacific region, and assess the impacts of these issues on current and future business strategies in China.

Research limitations/implications

The next step for research will be to explore if the new sustainable business models can be designed and implemented which are suitable to the market reality of China's economy.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is to seek new ideas for business strategy and new venture creation that incorporates a triple bottom line (economic, environment and social) perspective.
An empirical evidence of small business financing in China
Authors: Wu Junjie , Song Jining , Zeng Catherine
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide empirical quantitative evidence concerning small business financing in China and highlight the financing problems faced by small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) in developing their businesses.

Design/methodology/approach

A semi‐structured questionnaire survey was conducted to collect data from a sample of 60 small businesses in three cities in China. Descriptive methods and the SPSS statistical software package were used to analyse the data and interpret the results.

Findings

The data gathered covered current topic in research including the capital structure of SMEs at start‐up, the types and extent of funding shortage, the preference of financial resources as SMEs grow, the significant factors, which help SMEs secure bank loans and the influence of a firm's size, age and the like. The findings generally support financial theories and previous studies about SMEs but also offer the basis for new arguments about financing SMEs in China.

Research limitations/implications

The sample size is relatively small and statistical analysis is relatively straightforward.

Practical implication

The present study will be of interest to policy makers developing new strategies and policies to support the financing of SMEs in China.

Originality/value

The results from this study contribute to the understanding of current problems in financing Chinese small business enterprises. These include findings, which were not presented in other similar studies.
Never the same after the first time: the satisfaction of the second‐generation self‐employed
Authors: Clark Andrew , Colombier Nathalie , Masclet David
Published: November 2008

Purpose

It is known that the self‐employed are generally more satisfied than salaried workers. The aim of this paper is to test whether this phenomenon is particularly found for the first‐generation self‐employed.

Design/methodology/approach

French and British panel data are analysed, which include information on various measures of job satisfaction, and the respondent's parents' occupation. Job satisfaction regressions were run in which the first‐ and second‐generation self‐employed were distinguished between.

Findings

The study finds that first‐generation self‐employed (those whose parents were not self‐employed) are more satisfied overall than are the second‐generation self‐employed. The findings are consistent between the British and French data.

Research limitations/implications

While the results are the same in the two countries considered, further validation work should extend the analysis across countries. While the authors are fairly sure that the second‐generation self‐employed do worse, they cannot precisely distinguish between comparison to one's parents, constrained occupational choice, and selection effects due to lower barriers to self‐employment entry.

Originality/value

The authors believe that this is one of the first papers to distinguish between types of self‐employed in terms of their higher satisfaction. The finding that parents' labour force status continues to have a significant impact on their children's job satisfaction argues for a more systematic consideration of intergenerational factors in the analysis of labour markets.
Unemployment and life satisfaction: a non‐linear adaptation process
Authors: Georgellis Yannis , Gregoriou Andros , Healy Jerome , Tsitsianis Nikolaos
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to model the dynamic path of adjustment towards pre‐unemployment levels of wellbeing for a group of full‐time workers who experienced job loss.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on data from the German Socio‐economic Panel, a large‐scale panel survey, the paper captures the non‐linear nature of the adaptation process by using an Exponential Smooth Transition Autoregressive (ESTAR) model.

Findings

The study finds that adaptation takes place in a non‐linear fashion, with the speed of adjustment being higher for high earners, those with high pre‐unemployment levels of life satisfaction and those who were most satisfied with their jobs before becoming unemployed. It also finds that most of the adaptation takes place during the first year of unemployment, with adaptation speeds decreasing with unemployment duration, suggestive of possible habituation effects being present.

Originality/value

This is the first study to model the dynamic path of adjustment towards pre‐unemployment wellbeing levels as a non‐linear process. Despite the challenge posed by adaptation theory and the recent interest in the wellbeing effects of job loss, there is only sparse empirical evidence on the dynamics of the adaptation to unemployment process.
Implementing strategic initiatives: a framework of leading practices
Authors: Saunders Max , Mann Robin , Smith Robin
Published: November 2008

Purpose

Recent operations management research suggests that adopting and implementing the right practices are essential to attaining “world‐class” performance. The purpose of this paper is to report the leading operations management practices and the strategy deployment framework that emerged from a qualitative study that addressed the question of how managers implement strategy in an organisational excellence environment.

Design/methodology/approach

Group work with managers responsible for implementing strategic initiatives was followed by case studies of seven organisations via in‐depth semi‐structured interviews. A survey questionnaire strengthened the validity of the constructs of strategy deployment that were identified in the case analyses.

Findings

In total, seven strategy deployment constructs were identified and linkages between them are described. The 50 leading deployment practices indicate a mix of hard and soft management skills applied across the seven constructs.

Practical implications

The leading deployment practices have the potential to raise the performance of organisations by improving the implementation of strategic initiatives. The framework is relevant to the deployment of both corporate and business unit strategy such as manufacturing or operations, and should be of interest to managers in these areas.

Originality/value

Researchers have noted for more than a decade that no generally accepted framework of operations management practices has emerged for strategy implementation. Most strategy studies have focused on strategy formulation, content, or on project/programme management. There have been few multiple case studies of leading strategy deployment practices in diverse organisations from both private and public sectors.
Assessing leadership in a Chinese company: a case study
Authors: Conte Vincent A. , Novello Daniel
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the key problems encountered when Western‐trained consultants evaluate leaders in China using a toolkit and consulting process derived from Anglo‐American leadership theory and HR consulting practice.

Design/methodology/approach

A composite case example from the authors' recent consulting experience illustrates a model assessment process and toolkit tailored to the Chinese business, social and cultural environment.

Findings

Cultural and situational differences, require special consideration when assessing Chinese leaders. Assessments and feedback should be tailored to the “traditionalism” of the team being assessed.

Practical implications

The paper presents practical guidelines and insights into selecting appropriate assessment tools and structuring the process for China‐based clients.

Originality/value

The paper provides new insights into the tools and process required to deliver accurate and leadership assessment in China.
Innovation in research and development: tool of strategic growth
Authors: Holtzman Yair
Published: November 2008

Purpose

To describe research and development (R&D) as a tool of strategic growth. The world's top performing companies share a common characteristic: their superior ability to develop and introduce new products faster and cheaper than their competitors. As a matter of fact, effective product innovation is the key to growth, even survival, for almost any business.

Design/methodology/approach

The author discusses how innovation in R&D could serve as a differentiating strategic business tool. The paper is based upon the authors 15 years of experience in the area of R&D and new product development. The paper is very creative in two respects. First, it looks at strategic R&D as the differentiating strategic “weapon” companies can use to separate themselves from the competition. Second, it uses many of the manufacturing, operations management tools and methodologies and applies these to innovation in R&D. The paper discusses methods to optimize a company's R&D efforts.

Findings

The executives emphasized the importance and criticality of organic growth and innovation as a major business concern and opportunity for their companies' future success. While strategies including acquisitions and continuous process improvement have proven successful but very difficult to sustain, expensive and risky to integrate, “Innovation, and innovation in research and development” in particular, can provide the advantage that world class organizations need to create the sustainable growth year after year. Innovation in R&D can be a strategic weapon in which top companies employ definable strategies and practices to catalyze high levels of organic growth, support above average margins even in mature businesses, and separate themselves from the competition.

Originality/value

This paper is a very interesting read for high‐level managers and executives interested in the field of R&D and new product development.
The business strategy/corporate social responsibility “mash‐up”
Authors: McManus Tom
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the “mash‐up” of business strategy and corporate social responsibility (CSR). In popular music, a mash‐up is a file of digitally combined musical sources. Song A is played simultaneously with Song B, and in various other combinations. There are often elements of dissonance, and even cacophony, to the form – but the sum of the parts often surpasses the originals. CSR is a management innovation like the idea of business strategy itself. Each is also a metaphor representing alternative visions and approaches to corporate value creation. Business strategists are talking, writing, and meeting about CSR, and CSR is increasingly intersecting, integrating, converging, with business strategy. The trend is described within as a “mash‐up”. But what is the significance of this trend? How serious should companies be about it? Is CSR going to become a part of standard business theory and practice? How long will it take? What should organizations do to respond and participate?

Design/methodology/approach

This paper examines two propositions. First, that CSR is more than a set of ideas and processes; it is a metaphor for a different approach to business. Second, CSR is a management innovation like strategic planning itself. The paper concludes that the impact the two ideas will have on each other and society is fundamentally unpredictable, but it is likely that eventually the current CSR mania will subside and disillusionment will set in.

Findings

CSR is a highly significant trend, and well‐managed companies are already taking it very seriously. CSR may become a part of standard business theory and practice, but not without evolving through adoption patterns that will necessarily involve some disillusionment. Leaders will guide their company through this period by focusing on how to make CSR “real” for their organization by embracing the business strategy/CSR mash‐up and driving growth and innovation within the new parameters.

Originality/value

Familiarizes business strategists with CSR and CSR practitioners with points of connection and overlap with business strategy.
Bam earthquake reconstruction assessment
Authors: Fallahi Alireza
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that cultural heritage is very important in fostering a quality of life with value and pride in all civilizations. It comes together with an historic message and information that the cultural materials transmit from the past to the present and the future. Therefore, the protection of world cultural heritage from natural and man‐made disasters has been a focus both nationally and internationally for the last 50 years. There are a number of examples which indicate the extent of the irreplaceable destruction of heritage by natural disasters, such as Arg‐e Bam.

Design/methodology/approach

Now more than four years after the disaster this paper analyses the extent to which such opportunities were capitalized upon and proposes strategies and recommendations for future risk preparedness planning in Bam. Similar to most disasters, the 2003 Bam earthquake presented windows of opportunity for disaster mitigation, risk preparedness, physical planning, and socio‐economic and cultural developments. The earthquake damaged a significant part of the historical areas of the city and created an opportunity for developing a resilient community that could be used as a model city for other parts of the country.

Findings

The study finds that the earthquake provided an opportunity for further development and growth of the city's unique and internationally known date production through more publicity, renovation of the old irrigation systems, and expansion of its related industries. The Bam disaster created new opportunities for the city's exceptional cultural heritage and further developments in tourism. The city could also use this disaster to reshape its physical planning and development by introducing new planning ideas and innovations.

Originality/value

The Bam disaster created new opportunities for the city's exceptional cultural heritage and further developments in tourism. The city could also use this disaster to reshape its physical planning and development by introducing new planning ideas and innovations.
Supporting disaster response and recovery through improved situation awareness
Authors: Son Jeongwook , Aziz Zeeshan , Peña‐Mora Feniosky
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss how a high level of situation awareness (SA) has the potential to enhance first responders' performance and manage work demand resulting from distributed, dynamic, and chaotic situations resulting from a disaster in modern urban environments. It also aims to present a theoretical framework to address needs of an effective disaster response, enhanced collaboration and improved SA. The purpose of this is to help better understand current disaster response schemes in terms of SA, based on the understanding, find a way to improve the disaster response effectiveness, and quantitatively evaluate existing and future disaster response processes. The paper seeks to characterize current disaster response operations by various shortcomings, including inability to access information, lack of coordination, and poor communications. All this makes it difficult to deal with dynamic work demand resulting from disasters.

Design/methodology/approach

A response framework, integrating IT and Civil Engineering components is presented highlighting the relationship between situation awareness, collaboration and performance. Also, the implementation approach is discussed.

Findings

The paper finds that SA is very relevant to ensuring how much a current disaster response system is effective cognitively and physically, and in understanding how well disaster response systems support the responders at both strategic and operational levels.

Practical implications

Support of Civil Engineers and IT components can increase the response performance by facilitating collaboration through improved SA.

Originality/value

The paper presents a comprehensive framework and implementation approach to ensure effectiveness of disaster response operations. The framework ensures high situation awareness while supporting collaboration among first responders, including improved civil engineers' roles and exploiting IT components to collect, analyze, and share information.
The effect of polypropylene fibres within concrete with regard to fire performance in structures
Authors: Richardson Alan , Dave Urmil V.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effect of various polypropylene fibre additions (types and volume) to concrete with regard to explosive spalling when subject to high temperatures similar to those experienced in building or tunnel fires.

Design/methodology/approach

Medium strength concrete was manufactured with varying proportions of polypropylene fibres. Plain control samples were used to determine the original concrete strength and this was used as a benchmark following high temperature heat tests to evaluate the surface condition and final compressive strength. A pilot study was used to determine an appropriate heat source for the test. This was three Bunsen burners, however sufficient heat could not be generated within 150 mm concrete cubes and the concrete was shown to be a significant insulator and fire protection for structural members. The concrete test cubes were tested in a saturated condition which may reflect conditions where concrete is used in an external environment and thus is subject to soaking.

Findings

One hundred and fifty millimetre concrete cubes with and without fibres were placed into a furnace at 1,000°C. Explosive spalling was shown to be reduced with the use of polypropylene fibres but the final compressive strength of concrete was significantly reduced and had little residual structural value after a two hour period of heating.

Research limitations/implications

As the concrete tested was saturated, this condition provided a worst case scenario with regards to the build up of hydrostatic and vapour pressure within the cube. A range of percentage moisture contents would produce a more evenly balanced view of the effects of fibres in concrete. A single grade of concrete was used for the test. As the permeability of concrete influences the rate at which steam can escape from the interior of a saturated concrete cube, testing a range of concrete strengths would show this aspect of material performance with regard to spalling and final residual strength. Further research is recommended with regard to moisture contents, strengths of concrete and a range of temperatures.

Practical implications

This research has significance for the designer, in that buildings subject to terrorist activity may suffer from impact damage and an outbreak of fire following the initial attack.

Originality/value

The use of polypropylene fibres in concrete to provide anti spalling qualities is relatively new and this research adds to the knowledge regarding fibre type and volume with regard to first spall time, total area and number of areas subject to spalling and the final compressive strength of concrete following two hours of raised temperatures.
Finite element simulation of reinforced concrete structures under impact accident
Authors: Tahmasebinia F.
Published: November 2008

Purpose

An accidental impact load can be caused by mishaps in industry as well as accidents stemming from transportation or man‐made disasters. There are a number of ways to predict how an impact load will affect a concrete slab, some of which may be impractical or expensive but because there have been significant developments in technology, numerical techniques rather than experimental approaches have become popular methods for developing detailed responses. This paper aims to investigate finite element techniques. Therefore, to numerically examine reinforced concrete slabs subjected to impact load in order to better understand their behaviour can be considered a cost effective matter.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper evaluates reliability of finite element techniques to simulate the significant responses of reinforced concrete structures subjected to low velocity impact loading by taking advantage of a commercial finite element package ABAQUS/Explicit code.

Findings

The paper finds that finite element analysis is capable of making reasonable estimations available in order to determine the possible failure modes of reinforced concrete slabs subjected to impact loads. Finite element simulation can be used to construct the physical interaction between steel and concrete (bond action) as well as create an interaction between flexural and shear reinforcement. Modelling composite material such as a reinforced concrete slab is possible provided that the appropriate conditions for creating the interaction between steel and concrete are fulfilled.

Originality/value

The quantity of mesh density and direction of the sub‐division on the surface of a concrete slab, where it may follow the trajectory of cracking, can play an important role in simulating finite element analysis. By taking full advantage of hourglass control and mesh distortion control, and provided the number of mesh elements have increased, the simulation results would be close to the obtained experimental result.
Generational differences at work: introduction and overview
Authors: Macky Keith , Gardner Dianne , Forsyth Stewart
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This introduction seeks to provide a brief background to the notion that there are generational differences at work and to introduce the papers included in this special issue of the Journal of Managerial Psychology.

Design/methodology/approach

The current context concerning generational differences at work is briefly outlined followed by a description of the core theory underpinning the notion of generational cohorts. Criticisms of this theoretical premise are provided before a brief outline is given to each article in the special issue.

Findings

There is evidence for changes in personality profiles across generations, and for differences in attitudes towards work and careers. However, effect sizes tend not to be large, and some findings are inconsistent with popular stereotypes regarding generational differences. Little support was found for differences in work values or motivation.

Practical implications

Contrary to popular hype concerning generational differences at work, managerial time may be better spent considering employee needs relating to age (maturity), life‐cycle and career stage differences than developing generationally specific management policies and practices. Significant methodological problems remain in generational research.

Originality/value

The papers facilitate a critical understanding of the challenges facing generational research and its limitations, and provide a litmus test against which popular stereotypes can be compared.
Generational differences in personality and motivation
Authors: Wong Melissa , Gardiner Elliroma , Lang Whitney , Coulon Leah
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to examine whether personality and motivational driver differences exist across three generations of working Australians: Baby Boomers, Gen Xs, and Gen Ys.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the Occupational Personality Questionnaire and the Motivation Questionnaire, the study examined cross‐sectional differences in personality and motivational drivers across three generations.

Findings

The results are not supportive of the generational stereotypes that have been pervasive in the management literature and the media. Specifically, few meaningful differences were found between the three generations. Moreover, even when differences have been observed, these have related more to age than generation.

Research limitations/implications

One of the key limitations is the use of cross‐sectional data. To further explore this issue, it would be interesting to undertake a longitudinal study to assess personality preferences and motivational drivers of the different generations, when the participants are at the same age or the same point in their career.

Practical implications

The research emphasizes the importance of managing individuals by focusing on individual differences rather than relying on generational stereotypes, which may not be as prevalent as the existing literature suggests.

Originality/value

Managers and HR professionals may find the lack of differences across generations interesting and refreshing, in contrast with the popular management literature.
Generational differences in work values, outcomes and person‐organisation values fit
Authors: Cennamo Lucy , Gardner Dianne
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate differences between three generational groups currently in the workforce (Baby Boomers, Generation X, and Generation Y), in work values, job satisfaction, affective organisational commitment and intentions to leave. The study also seeks to examine generational differences in person‐organisation values fit.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 504 Auckland employees representing a range of industries completed an online questionnaire. Generation X (57 per cent) was defined as those born between 1962‐1979, Baby Boomers (23 per cent) were born 1946‐1961 and Generation Y (17 per cent) were born 1980‐2000. The remainder (3 per cent) were born 1925‐1945.

Findings

The youngest groups placed more importance on status and freedom work values than the oldest group. Baby Boomers reported better person‐organisation values fit with extrinsic values and status values than Generation X and Generation Y but there were no other generational differences in fit. Where individual and organisational values showed poor fit there were reduced job satisfaction and organisational commitment, and increased intentions to turnover across all three generational groups.

Research limitations/implications

The study was cross‐sectional and based on self‐report data, limiting the generalisability of findings.

Practical implications

Values are important in guiding behaviour and enhancing work motivation. Organisational values must be able to meet the needs of different employees, and organisations need to clarify their work values and expectations with staff.

Originality/value

The paper presents evidence that person‐organisation values fit is important for all generational groups and popular notions about generational differences should not be over‐generalised.
What recantation? The wages fund doctrines of J.S. Mill in light of Smith, and Ricardo
Authors: McKenzie Russell , Levendis John
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the various forms of the classical wages fund, and especially the claim that J.S. Mill reversed his position on the nature of the wages fund.

Design/methodology/approach

Textual research from original publications of Adam Smith, David Ricardo and J.S. Mill, as well as references to current interpretations of their work are used in this paper.

Findings

Although J.S. Mill was a supporter of the classical wages fund model, he did not consistently embrace its assumption of a fixed fund. His comment in his Principles that the “discretion of the capitalist” influences the size of the fund contradicts this assumption. Without consistent support for this component of the doctrine, the “recantation” loses its historical significance, in that it is simply a reaffirmation of the views which Mill held throughout.

Research limitations/implications

It is hoped this paper can close the book on the debate on Mill's supposed recantation. There was no recantation because Mill held no firm position to recant.

Originality/value

It is understood that no one has made the connection between Mill's recantation and his other inconsistencies regarding aspects of the wages fund.
A privatization success story: accounting and narrative expression over time
Authors: Craig Russell , Amernic Joel
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This paper is the third in a trilogy of papers to explore the use of accounting as a fundamental element in senior management's narrative regarding the privatization of a major transportation enterprise, Canadian National Railway (CN). The paper aims to examine how two accounting performance benchmarks (the operating ratio, and free cash flow) were deployed to help sustain a rhetoric of post‐privatization success. The aptness (and the danger) of accounting language in strategic narrative is highlighted.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the importance of senior management discourse in the aftermath of a privatization. A narrative perspective is adopted, in which an imagined future post‐privatization era initially articulated in accounting language is then told and re‐told as the post‐privatization years unfold. Accounting performance measures highlighted in the story of success of the privatization in the Annual Letters to Shareholders by the CEOs of CN in the ten years following privatization in 1995, and celebrated in the Annual Report, are examined critically.

Findings

The results emphasize the important features and role of accounting language and accounting‐based performance benchmark measures in the narrative construction of the success of a privatization by corporate leaders.

Research limitations/implications

Case studies possess the strength of specific instance detail and interpretation, and the ostensible weakness of interpretation of a sample of one. But such research can provide for a reframing of conceptual perspectives and stimulate additional efforts to interrogate the role of accounting language in events of major social change.

Practical implications

The paper strongly endorses the adoption of a critical analytical perspective by those affected by a major social change (such as a privatization) in which the role of accounting language is subtle, but nonetheless persuasive and enduring.

Originality/value

The paper examines a case study in which the narrative framing of success is made rhetorically potent by deploying accounting performance measures. The paper reinforces the view that accounting is not an innocent bystander in the political and narrative manoeuvrings associated with a privatization. Accounting does not axiomatically provide an objective measure of some underlying financial truth, but is part of an arsenal of rhetoric to achieve political ends.
Accounting change in central government
Authors: Gomes Delfina , Carnegie Garry D. , Lima Rodrigues Lúcia
Published: November 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at the adoption of double entry bookkeeping at the Royal Treasury, Portugal, on its establishment in 1761 and the factors contributing to this development. The Royal Treasury was the first central government organization in Portugal to adopt double entry bookkeeping and was a crucial first step in the institutionalisation of the technique in Portuguese public administration.

Design/methodology/approach

Set firmly in the archive, this paper adopts new institutional sociology (NIS) to inform the findings of the local, time‐specific accounting policy and practice at the Portuguese Royal Treasury.

Findings

Embedded within the broader European context, this study identifies the key pressures exerted upon the Royal Treasury on its formation in 1761, which resulted in major accounting change within Portuguese central government from that date. The study provides further evidence of the importance of the state in the institutionalization of accounting practices by means of coercive pressures and highlights for Portugal the importance of individual actors who, as powerful change agents, made key decisions that influenced accounting change.

Originality/value

This study examines a major instance of accounting change in European central government and broadens the application of NIS in accounting history research to a different country – Portugal – and to a different time – the eighteenth century. It also serves to illuminate the difficulties of collecting pertinent evidence pertaining to this long‐dated time period in identifying certain forms of institutional pressures.
The new researcher
Authors: Bowrey Graham
Published: November 2008

Purpose

This poem is a reflection of the processes and associated emotions early career academic researchers may experience in preparing, presenting and publishing their research.

Design/methodology/approach

Fictional poem.

Findings

This poem highlights that the processes an early career academic researcher undertakes to publish his/her research is not necessarily the hardest lesson to learn. Rather the hardest lesson is learning to cope with the mix of emotions they will experience during the process.

Research limitations/implications

Provides early career academic researchers, and their supervisors, with a guide of what they can expect to experience during the first few years during their research.

Originality/value

A fun review of the early career of a new academic researcher.