bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Implicit self-adjusting computation for purely functional programs
Authors: CHEN YAN , DUNFIELD JANA , HAMMER MATTHEW A. , ACAR UMUT A.
Published: March 2014

Computational problems that involve dynamic data, such as physics simulations and program development environments, have been an important subject of study in programming languages. Building on this work, recent advances in self-adjusting computation have developed techniques that enable programs to respond automatically and efficiently to dynamic changes in their inputs. Self-adjusting programs have been shown to be efficient for a reasonably broad range of problems, but the approach still requires an explicit programming style, where the programmer must use specific monadic types and primitives to identify, create, and operate on data that can change over time. We describe techniques for automatically translating purely functional programs into self-adjusting programs. In this implicit approach, the programmer need only annotate the (top-level) input types of the programs to be translated. Type inference finds all other types, and a type-directed translation rewrites the source program into an explicitly self-adjusting target program. The type system is related to information-flow type systems and enjoys decidable type inference via constraint solving. We prove that the translation outputs well- typed self-adjusting programs and preserves the source program's input–output behavior, guaranteeing that translated programs respond correctly to all changes to their data. Using a cost semantics, we also prove that the translation preserves the asymptotic complexity of the source program.
Metallographic Preparation of Zn-21Al-2Cu Alloy for Analysis by Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD)
Authors: Rodríguez-Hernández M. G. , Martínez-Flores E. E. , Torres-Villaseñor G. , Escalera M. Dolores
Published: March 2014

Samples of Zn-21Al-2Cu alloy (Zinalco) that will be heavily deformed were prepared using five different manual mechanical metallographic methods. Samples were analyzed before tensile testing using the orientation imaging microscopy-electron backscatter diffraction (OIM-EBSD) technique. The effect of type and particle size during the final polishing stages for this material were studied in order to identify a method that produces a flat, damage free surface with a roughness of about 50 nm and clean from oxide layers, thereby producing diffraction patterns with high image quality (IQ) and adequate confidence indexes (CI). Our results show that final polishing with alumina and silica, as was previously suggested by other research groups for alloys that are difficult to prepare or alloys with low melting point, are not suitable for manual metallographic preparation of this alloy. Indexes of IQ and CI can be used to evaluate methods of metallographic preparation of samples studied using the OIM-EBSD technique.
Self-assembled synthesis and surface photovoltage properties of polyhedron-constructed micrometer solid sphere and hollow-sphere In2S3
Authors: Shi Yan , Yang Yu-Lin , Fan Rui-Qing , Li Liang , Yu Jia , Li Shuo
Published: March 2014

Novel solid/hollow-sphere In2S3 materials composed of polyhedra have been synthesized, and their photoelectric properties were investigated by SPS.
Improved supercapacitor potential and antibacterial activity of bimetallic CNFs–Sn–ZrO2nanofibers: fabrication and characterization
Authors: Jang Young-Sang , Amna Touseef , Hassan M. Shamshi , Gu Ja-Lam , Kim Ick-Soo , Kim Hyun-Chel , Kim Jong-Hui , Baik Sang-Ho , Khil Myung-Seob
Published: March 2014

The objective of our study was to develop a new class of one-dimensional Sn–ZrO2nanocrystal decorated CNFs.
Whiter, brighter, and more stable cellulose paper coated with antibacterial carboxymethyl starch stabilized ZnO nanoparticles
Authors: Cheng Fei , Betts Jonathan W. , Kelly Stephen M. , Wareham David W. , Kornherr Andreas , Dumestre Frederic , Schaller Jens , Heinze Thomas
Published: March 2014

A coating of CMS-stabilized ZnO nanoparticles has been deposited on a cellulose paper by a layer-by-layer approach. The coated papers show higher brightness and whiteness compared with blank paper. They also show good antibacterial activity against MRSA and A. baumannii.
Correlated fluorine diffusion and ionic conduction in the nanocrystalline F− solid electrolyte Ba0.6La0.4F2.4—19F T1(ρ) NMR relaxation vs. conductivity measurements
Authors: Preishuber-Pflügl F. , Bottke P. , Pregartner V. , Bitschnau B. , Wilkening M.
Published: March 2014

19F NMR relaxometry and conductivity spectroscopy precisely track the defect-mediated short-range and long-range anion migration pathways in nanocrystalline Ba0.6La0.4F2.4.
Novel approach to the processing of meso-macroporous thin films of graphite and in situ graphite–noble metal nanocomposites
Authors: Es-Souni Mohammed , Schopf Dimitri , Solterbeck Claus-Henning , Dietze Matthias
Published: March 2014

On-substrate macro-mesoporous nanographite films as well as in situ graphite–noble metal nanocomposites are processed from porous PVDF precursors and were shown to possess outstanding supercapacitance properties.
New water soluble Pd-imidate complexes as highly efficient catalysts for the synthesis of C5-arylated pyrimidine nucleosides
Authors: Kapdi Anant , Gayakhe Vijay , Sanghvi Yogesh S. , García Joaquín , Lozano Pedro , da Silva Ivan , Pérez José , Serrano J. Luis
Published: March 2014

Recyclable water-soluble Pd complexes were revealed as excellent catalysts for Suzuki–Miyaura cross-coupling of challenging substrates like the antiviral nucleoside analogue 5-iodo-20-deoxyuridine.
CO2concentration and pH alters subsurface microbial ecology at reservoir temperature and pressure
Authors: Gulliver Djuna M. , Lowry Gregory V. , Gregory Kelvin B.
Published: March 2014

Molecular ecology techniques are utilized to determine the impact of CO2concentrations on microbial communities under reservoir temperature and pressure simulating geological carbon sequestration.
Photochromic and photomechanical responses of an amorphous diarylethene-based polymer: a spectroscopic ellipsometry investigation of ultrathin films
Authors: Toccafondi Chiara , Occhi Luca , Cavalleri Ornella , Penco Amanda , Castagna Rossella , Bianco Andrea , Bertarelli Chiara , Comoretto Davide , Canepa Maurizio
Published: March 2014

Parallel to the Δñ increase, a change of thickness during the photo-conversion is discussed.
Theoretical Study on the High-Temperature P6̄ and P6̄′ Phases of Si3N4: A Tool to Aid in Ceramics Development
Authors: Yu Ben-hai , Chen Dong
Published: March 2014

Atomistic modeling based on the density functional theory combined with the quasi-harmonic approximation is used to investigate the lattice parameters and elastic moduli of the P6̄ and P6̄′ phases of Si3N4. β-Si3N4 is set as a benchmark system since accurate experiments are available. The calculated lattice constants and elastic constants of β-Si3N4 are in good agreement with the experimental data. The crystal anisotropy, mechanical stability, and brittle behavior of P6̅- and P6̅′-Si3N4 are also discussed in the pressure range of 30–55 GPa. The results show that these two polymorphs are metallic compounds. The brittleness and elastic anisotropy increase with applied pressure increasing. Besides, the phase boundaries of the β→P6̅′→δ transitions are also analysed. The β phase is predicted to undergo a phase transition to the P6̅′ phase at 40.0 GPa and 300 K. Upon further compression, the P6̅′→δ transition can be observed at 53.2 GPa. The thermal and pressure effects on the heat capacity, cell volume and bulk modulus are also determined. Some interesting features are found at high temperatures.
Investigation on Excited-State Photophysical Characteristics of Low Bandgap Polymer APFO3
Authors: Qu Li-li , Wang Ying-hui , Kang Zhi-hui , Ma Yu-guang , Zhang Han-zhuang
Published: March 2014

The excited state photophysics of low bandgap polymer APFO3 has been investigated in detail. The chemical calculations confirm that the intrachain charge transfer (ICT) may occur after photo-excitation and is mainly responsible for the first absorption band. The transient absorption results confirm that ICT indeed exists and competes with the vibrational relaxation at the same time, when APFO3 is in a monodisperse system. This ICT process would disappear due to the influence of interchain interaction when APFO3 is in the condensed phase, where the exciton decay would be dominant in the relaxation process after photoexcitation. The photoexcitation dynamics of APFO3 film blending with PC61 BM are presented, which shows that the exciton may be dissociated completely as the percentage of PC61 BM reaches ∼50%. Meanwhile, the photovoltaic performance based on blend heterojunction shows that the increase of photocurrent is little if the percentage of PC61 BM exceeds ∼50%. Overall, the present study has covered several fundamental processes taking place in the APFO3 polymer.
Infrared Spectroscopy of CO Isolated in Solid Nitrogen Matrix
Authors: Wu Lei , Lambo Ricardo , Tan Yan , Liu An-wen , Hu Shui-ming
Published: March 2014

The infrared absorption spectra of the CO monomer isolated in solid N2 have been recorded at various temperatures between 4.5 and 30 K. The absorption features of the fundamental stretching mode show its linewidth and matrix-induced frequency shift to be weakly temperature-dependent. As the temperature of the matrix was raised, an increase in the linewidth together with a redshift in the central frequency was observed. These observations were explained in terms of the quenching of the CO rotational states by the N2 matrix into closely-lying librational states. A quantitative model was then used to calculate the energy difference between these librational states. Results show that they can be thermally populated through the absorption of matrix phonons.
Conversion of Pretreated Biomass into Levulinic Acid via Continuous Extraction at Atmosphere Pressure
Authors: Fan Ming-hui , Yan Li-feng
Published: March 2014

Conversion of biomass to chemicals or fuels under mild condition is still a challenge. As a platform molecule for chemicals and fuels, levulinic acid (LA) has been prepared by liquefaction of biomass at high pressure. In order to carry out the conversion from wheat straw to LA at atmosphere pressure, continuous extraction of the reactive system by an organic solvent with a higher density than that of water was utilized for degradation of pretreated biomass. Yields of LA were measured by means of gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance. The results revealed that a maximum yield of 30.66% of LA can be obtained from wheat straw. In addition, the effects of biomass pretreated conditions on the LA conversion have been studied. The study provides a new route to convert biomass to valuable chemicals at atmosphere pressure.
Hierarchical Radial Co3O4 Microcrystal and Application in Gas Sensor
Authors: Yu Xin-xin , Liu Xian-song , Wu Ming-zai , Sun Zhao-qi , Li Guang , Chen Xiao-shuang
Published: March 2014

Three-dimensional (3D) hierarchical Co3O4 microcrystal with radial dendritic morphologies was prepared through hydrothermal reactions followed by subsequent annealing treatment. Structural and morphological characterizations were performed by X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The gas sensing properties of the as-obtained microcrystal were investigated at 110 °C, which revealed that the 3D hierarchical porous Co3O4 microcrystal exhibited high sensitivity to ammonia, as well as a short response time of 10 s. The response characteristic indicates that the sensor has a good stability and reversibility. Detections of toxic and flammable gases, such as ethanol, acetone and benzene were also carried out at a relative low temperature. The results indicate that such hierarchical Co3O4 microcrystal would be a potential material in the field of gas sensing.
Changing practice to support self-management and recovery in mental illness: application of an implementation model
Authors: Harris Melanie , Jones Phil , Heartfield Marie , Allstrom Mary , Hancock Janette , Lawn Sharon , Battersby Malcolm
Published: March 2014

Health services introducing practice changes need effective implementation methods. Within the setting of a community mental health service offering recovery-oriented psychosocial support for people with mental illness, we aimed to: (i) identify a well-founded implementation model; and (ii) assess its practical usefulness in introducing a new programme for recovery-oriented self-management support. We reviewed the literature to identify implementation models applicable to community mental health organisations, and that also had corresponding measurement tools. We used one of these models to inform organisational change strategies. The literature review showed few models with corresponding tools. The Promoting Action on Research Implementation in Health Services (PARIHS) model and the related Organisational Readiness to Change Assessment (ORCA) tool were used. The PARIHS proposes prerequisites for health service change and the ORCA measures the extent to which these prerequisites are present. Application of the ORCA at two time points during implementation of the new programme showed strategy-related gains for some prerequisites but not for others, reflecting observed implementation progress. Additional strategies to address target prerequisites could be drawn from the PARIHS model. The PARIHS model and ORCA tool have potential in designing and monitoring practice change strategies in community mental health organisations. Further practical use and testing of implementation models appears justified in overcoming barriers to change.
SPECTRAL ANALYSIS IN ORBITAL/SUPERORBITAL PHASE SPACE AND HINTS OF SUPERORBITAL VARIABILITY IN THE HARD X-RAYS OF LS I +61°303
Authors: Li Jian , Torres Diego F. , Zhang Shu
Published: March 2014

We present an INTEGRAL spectral analysis in the orbital/superorbital phase space of LS I +61°303. A hard X-ray spectrum with no cutoff is observed at all orbital/superorbital phases. The hard X-ray index is found to be uncorrelated with the radio index (non-simultaneously) measured at the same orbital and superorbital phases. In particular, the absence of an X-ray spectrum softening during periods of negative radio index does not favor a simple interpretation of the radio index variations in terms of a microquasar's changes of state. We uncover hints of superorbital variability in the hard X-ray flux, in phase with the superorbital modulation in soft X-rays. An orbital phase drift of the radio peak flux and index along the superorbital period is observed in the radio data. We explore its influence on a previously reported double-peak structure of a radio orbital light curve, and present it as a plausible explanation.
Asymptotic expansions for Toeplitz operators on symmetric spaces of general type
Authors: Engliš Miroslav , Upmeier Harald
Published: March 2014

A general theory of Berezin-Toeplitz quantization for symmetric spaces is presented, with emphasis on representation-theoretic asymptotic expansions, which applies to spaces of compact and non-compact type, both in the classical setting of hermitian symmetric spaces and also for their real forms. The Berezin (or Wick type) calculus and its opposite “anti-Wick” type calculus are treated on an equal footing.
Cyber Warfare
Authors: Benatar Marco
Published: March 2014

The advent of the Internet, and interconnected computer networks more generally, has impacted society in innumerable ways. Yet this new form of interconnectivity is a double-edged sword, turning dependency into vulnerability. As recent cyber attacks in past years have shown, the ability to cause havoc with far-reaching ramifications is a valid concern commanding worldwide attention. Countries from all regions have responded with increased development of their cyber capabilities, opening up a new military domain alongside land, sea, air, and space. Cyber warfare is not a legal term based on authoritative sources. Rather the concept is used loosely to describe an array of harmful actions carried out by states in cyberspace, through government instrumentalities or groups whose conduct can be attributed to said states, targeting computer networks in the context of an armed conflict or during peacetime. The latter term has also been employed to describe attacks by nonstate actors without state involvement. Cyber warfare should be distinguished from germane phenomena, namely, cyber crime, which constitutes domestic legislation prohibiting private persons from engaging in certain conduct and international tools outlining judicial cooperation, and cyber espionage, which may be state-sponsored activity but is centered on the gathering of sensitive information. Understood in this broad sense, cyber warfare can conceivably fall within the purview of several areas of international law. Determining the international legal implications of a computer network operation fundamentally rests on two preconditions: the first is whether an international obligation has been breached, for instance, the principle of nonintervention in the internal affairs of states; the second is whether the attack can be attributed to a state, which is difficult to prove because of the technical design of the Internet. Certain egregious cyber attacks can trigger the application of the law governing the use of force and/or the law of armed conflict. With respect to both normative frameworks, a lively debate is ongoing as to the relevant thresholds of harm to life and property and how to ensure respect for cardinal principles, such as distinction and proportionality. Other branches of international law have also been singled out either because they concurrently apply to cyber operations (e.g., telecommunications and space law) or because they have potential relevance as models for future cyber security norms (e.g., law of the sea, international environmental law, and international criminal law). Faced with lacunae in contemporary international law or unsatisfactory outcomes, the international community and jurists have voiced many proposals for reform ranging from treaties to soft law guidelines.
Tobacco rattle virus is Detected in Established Landscape Plantings of Epimedium sp. in Ohio
Authors: Fisher John R. , Bell John
Published: March 2014

In this brief, the authors report the first detection of Tobacco rattle virus in established landscape plantings of barrenwort (Epimedium sp.) from two geographical regions of Ohio.

Accepted for publication 21 February 2014. Published 18 March 2014.
Detection of Papaya ringspot virus Type W Infecting the Cucurbit Weed Cucumis melo var. dudaim in Florida
Authors: Tantiwanich Yaowapa , Baker Carlye A. , Turechek William W. , Adkins Scott
Published: March 2014

This is the first report of Papaya ringspot virus type W infecting Cucumis melo var. dudaim, a cucurbit weed, in Florida. It provides an overview of this virus reservoir for growers, extension workers, crop consultants, and research and regulatory scientists.

Accepted for publication 21 January 2014. Published 18 March 2014.
Fungicide Efficacy and Specificity Toward Fungi in the Cranberry Fruit Rot Disease Complex
Authors: Wells Lindsay D. , Perry Robert S. , McManus Patricia S.
Published: March 2014

Cranberry fruit rot is an economically important disease complex comprised of as many as 15 different fungi that destroy cranberries in the field and/or after harvest. We evaluated fungicides in six field trials over 3 years for their ability to reduce the incidence of cranberry fruit rot and for their specificity in controlling six principal pathogens in the complex: Coleophoma empetri, Colletotrichum acutatum, Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, Phomopsis vaccinii, Phyllosticta vaccinii, and Physalospora vaccinii. Fruit rot incidence and efficacy of fungicides varied greatly among replicate plots within trials and among trials, often making it difficult to discern significant differences among treatments. However, in general, the newer strobilurin and sterol demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides were at least as effective as the industry standards, chlorothalonil and mancozeb. An exception was the DMI fungicide fenbuconazole, which was ineffective in three of five trials. Compared to other fungicides, fenbuconazole was weak in controlling Colletotrichum gloeosporioides, which along with Coleophoma empetri, dominated among fungi isolated from rotten berries. The results are being used to develop disease management programs that control the key fruit rot pathogens with reduced reliance on environmentally risky and potentially carcinogenic fungicides.

Accepted for publication 21 January 2014. Published 14 March 2014.
Steaming Inactivates Phytophthora ramorum, Causal Agent of Sudden Oak Death and Ramorum Blight, from Infested Nursery Soils in California
Authors: Schweigkofler Wolfgang , Kosta Kathleen , Huffman Vernon , Sharma Supriya , Suslow Karen , Ghosh Sibdas
Published: March 2014

Nursery trade plays a major role in the long-distance spread of Phytophthora ramorum, the causal agent of Sudden Oak Death (SOD) and ramorum blight of ornamental plants. Under federal regulations, nurseries found positive for P. ramorum must destroy infected plants and treat infested soils. The use of steam is an effective method to thermally inactivate P. ramorum from nursery soils as demonstrated at the National Ornamental Research Site at Dominican University (NORSDUC) and one commercial nursery in the Central Valley of California. Heating up the top soil layer (0-30 cm) to 50°C for 120 minutes resulted in complete thermal inactivation of P. ramorum. Consequently, the commercial nursery was released from federal quarantine. Steaming can be a fast, reliable and sustainable option for treating nursery soils.

Accepted for publication 21 January 2014. Published 13 March 2014.
Viability of Puccinia horiana Teliospores Under Various Environmental Conditions
Authors: Bonde Morris R. , Palmer Cristi L. , Luster Douglas G. , Nester Susan E. , Revell Jason M. , Berner Dana K.
Published: March 2014

Puccinia horiana Henn. is a quarantine-significant fungal pathogen and causal agent of chrysanthemum white rust (CWR). The pathogen and disease were first discovered in the United States in 1977 and quickly eradicated. During the early 1990s, CWR reemerged in several instances, but in each instance was declared eradicated. However, since approximately 2004 CWR has reappeared at an accelerated frequency. This has suggested that either P. horiana is entering the country more frequently from foreign locations or that P. horiana is now established in the field, implying that spores are capable of surviving winter conditions in plant debris or soil. As a result of the possibility that the pathogen has become established in the United States, we initiated several lines of research. The objectives of the study reported here were: (i) develop a better and more sensitive method to measure teliospore longevity; and (ii) determine if the pathogen is able to survive northeastern winters as viable teliospores. Results from the study showed that teliospores survived in the greenhouse a maximum of 28 days in dry soil and 7 days in moist soil. In a growth chamber simulating winter temperature conditions in the northeastern United States, teliospores survived a maximum of 35 days. It was concluded that P. horiana teliospores are not able to survive through typical northeastern U.S. winters.

Accepted for publication 9 January 2014. Published 18 March 2014.
Integrated air quality and land use planning in The Netherlands
Authors: van Rij Evelien , K. Korthals Altes Willem
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to review the rescaling of integrated planning policies for the built environment by the transposition of European directives on air quality in The Netherlands.

Design/methodology/approach

– This is a case study examining European and Dutch policies, legislation, case law and reports by various Dutch Courts of Auditors and assessment agencies.

Findings

– The paper reveals how a combination of measures that prohibit practices and measures constituting new ways of working has facilitated environmental protection and integrated planning. The case shows that transposition matters. At first, the aim of transposing European environmental directives into an integrated national legal system resulted in an erosion of integrated planning as courts nullified new development decisions. In later instances, it resulted in the National Cooperation Programme on Air Quality (NSL), an integrated system, allowing the weighing and monitoring of all policies that affect air quality.

Research limitations/implications

– The findings of this study of Dutch air quality regulation may contribute to other studies into the rescaling of environmental governance in relation to interactions between central norm-setting and integrated local policies.

Practical implications

– The case study shows a real working institutional system that relies on an interactive web tool that facilitates integrated planning decisions which respect environmental limit values. The problems faced and opportunities the system afforded are also discussed.

Originality/value

– This paper increases understanding of the process of the transposition of European directives in relation to integrated policies for the built environment, with a specific emphasis on ambient air quality.
Growing houses and trees: integrating biodiversity conservation and urbanisation
Authors: Williams Peter
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the framework, operation and prospects of two innovative planning tools – biobanking and biodiversity certification – to protect biodiversity in the context of urbanisation.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using the Australian State of New South Wales, and its capital Sydney, as a focus, the paper reviews the history and performance of the two planning tools selected for examination.

Findings

– Through its analysis, this paper supports the use of biobanking and biodiversity certification as tools at the disposal of planners which should be employed to augment the array of tools to manage the impacts on biodiversity of urban development. Indeed, these tools have the potential to increase the level of conserved biodiversity if used appropriately.

Originality/value

– Biobanking and biodiversity certification are, respectively, examples of market-based and strategic-based statutory planning mechanisms that can be used to protect biodiversity in an urban development context. Creative adaption of environmental planning laws is required to ensure effective implementation of these innovative planning tools. The relevant contemporary statutory enactments that have given effect to these mechanisms are examined in this paper.
Amenity enhancement and biodiversity conservation in Australian suburbia
Authors: H. Kelly Andrew
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to critically explore the historical background and current approach of the most common statutory instrument to maintain green landscapes in private residential gardens in cities and townships in suburban New South Wales (NSW), Australia.

Design/methodology/approach

– The narrative presents a transdisciplinary study. While its emphasis is on law and town planning, it also encompasses local government and legal history while touching upon environmental management and ecological science. This panoply of areas reflects the sheer complexity of the topic. While the presentation is initially descriptive, it moves on to a critique of the NSW Government's recent statutory approach.

Findings

– The paper demands that further attention must be paid to improving the design and architecture of statutory plans and underlying policies to not only improve urban biodiversity but also retain, as far as practicable, the visual beauty of the suburban landscape. This means reliance on local government to devise their own acceptable approaches. Flexibility rather than rigidity is warranted.

Originality/value

– The amount of scholarly material on this topic is relatively rare. The majority of information relies on excellent on-ground research and experience on the part of local experts, namely council employees and consultants. Academic and practical material must be drawn together to improve biodiversity conservation at both the local and regional spheres.
The contaminated land regime: time for a regime that is fit for purpose (Part 1)
Authors: Fogleman Valerie
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this article is to examine the regime to remediate contaminated land in the UK set out in Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 and to analyse the UK Government's intent and objectives in introducing the regime. The legislative provisions and the statutory guidance that accompanies that legislation are then analysed to determine whether those objectives could have been met.

Design/methodology/approach

– A research approach was taken to trace the legislative history of Part 2A and to analyse the statutory provisions and the statutory guidance. The approach included researching Parliamentary debates on the statute, consultations on the statutory guidance, other information published by the UK Government, commentaries on the regime, and contaminated land regimes in other jurisdictions.

Findings

– The paper found that the introduction of a contaminated land regime that delegates primary implementation and enforcement authority to local authorities, and that severely limits their discretion in doing so, has resulted in a regime that has proven to be unworkable in practice and that has failed to meet its objectives.

Originality/value

– The article is the first paper to examine the legislative intent and objectives behind Part 2A and to analyse their effect on the provisions in the statute and the statutory guidance and their implementation and enforcement.
The contaminated land regime: time for a regime that is fit for purpose (Part 2)
Authors: Fogleman Valerie
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of the article is to show that the liability system established by Part 2A of the Environmental Protection Act 1990 is unfit for purpose because its mixture of joint and several liability and proportionate liability makes it impossible to implement and enforce effectively or efficiently as well as making it expensive to administer. The article aims to analyse the liability system and its effect on the implementation and enforcement of Part 2A.

Design/methodology/approach

– A research approach was taken to examine and analyse Part 2A and the accompanying statutory guidance, and its implementation and enforcement. This approach included researching the liability system of Part 2A in depth, liability systems in other jurisdictions to compare and contrast with the liability system in Part 2A, publications by the UK Government on the progress of Part 2A, and commentaries on Part 2A and its progress.

Findings

– The paper found that the liability system introduced by Part 2A is too complex to enforce effectively or efficiently. The article concludes that the result is a contaminated land regime that has failed to achieve its purpose in identifying land that poses a risk to human health and the environment and in remediating it.

Originality/value

– The paper is the first paper to examine and critique the liability system in Part 2A and its implementation in depth and to suggest issues to consider in its revision so as to replace the regime with a regime that is fit for purpose.
A manufacturing systems network model for the evaluation of complex manufacturing systems
Authors: Becker Till , Meyer Mirja , Windt Katja
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The topology of manufacturing systems is specified during the design phase and can afterwards only be adjusted at high expense. The purpose of this paper is to exploit the availability of large-scale data sets in manufacturing by applying measures from complex network theory and from classical performance evaluation to investigate the relation between structure and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper develops a manufacturing system network model that is composed of measures from complex network theory. The analysis is based on six company data sets containing up to half a million operation records. The paper uses the network model as a straightforward approach to assess the manufacturing systems and to evaluate the impact of topological measures on fundamental performance figures, e.g., work in process or lateness.

Findings

– The paper able to show that the manufacturing systems network model is a low-effort approach to quickly assess a manufacturing system. Additionally, the paper demonstrates that manufacturing networks display distinct, non-random network characteristics on a network-wide scale and that the relations between topological and performance key figures are non-linear.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample consists of six data sets from Germany-based manufacturing companies. As the model is universal, it can easily be applied to further data sets from any industry.

Practical implications

– The model can be utilized to quickly analyze large data sets without employing classical methods (e.g. simulation studies) which require time-intensive modeling and execution.

Originality/value

– This paper explores for the first time the application of network figures in manufacturing systems in relation to performance figures by using real data from manufacturing companies.
Can productivity be socially embedded? Reflections on some productivity measures of 2000s
Authors: Gokhan Kocer Ruya
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to give an overview of items that are included in recent productivity programmes in various countries and integrate these items with the ideas of virtuous circuit of productivity and socially embedded productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

– In depth analysis of an illustrative set of productivity measures. The analysis reveals how each measure/programme could make sense to the industrial relations actors. A new conceptual reformulation of analysed measures and programmes.

Findings

– Bilateral productivity deals between trade unions and employers are not necessarily good from the perspective of national policy making. For this kind of uncoordinated productivity measures, though may be good for individual enterprises, may increase unemployment by pushing other domestic competitors out of the market or compelling them to lay-off workers in a reactive fashion. By drawing on Polanyi, one may argue that it is possible to strike a good balance between productivity concerns and societal interests by embedding the former into the latter.

Research limitations/implications

– The purpose is to introduce a new conceptualization, thus the empirical material is meant to be illustrative rather than extensive.

Originality/value

– By using graphical displays and empirical argumentation two new concepts are introduced: first, virtuous circuit of productivity and second, socially embedded productivity.
Age-group differences in Near Field Communication smartphone
Authors: Teh Pei-Lee , K. Ahmed Pervaiz , Cheong Soon-Nyean , Yap Wen-Jiun
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper are twofold: first, develop a novel concept of a mobiquitous home application (Near Field Communication Smartphone Entertainment Systems (NFC SES)) with the use of photo interface and NFC smartphone. Second, examine age-group differences in relation to the influence of intuitive, convenience and perceived usefulness on users’ behavioural intention to use NFC SES.

Design/methodology/approach

– Using design science research, NFC SES is developed and a survey of 52 users is conducted to evaluate NFC SES.

Findings

– There are age differences in individual behavioural intention to use NFC technology. Convenience appears to be the primary factor for the youths. The adult cohort, in contrast emphasizes intuitive and perceived usefulness as two significant determinants of their behavioural intention to use NFC SES.

Practical implications

– This study offers a fresh insight for mobile device manufacturer and application developers to focus their design efforts around three aspects (intuitive, convenience and usefulness) that are desired by different age-group users.

Social implications

– The development of NFC SES bridges the gap of cyber-physical spaces by enabling users to automate multiple heterogeneous digital appliances without imposing undue technological effort and inconvenience. NFC SES, operating through a touch-driven interaction between NFC smartphone and photo interface, is likely to be useful for many home users, especially for people with disabilities.

Originality/value

– NFC SES contributes in itself as a novel innovation. Additionally, studies on mobile technology largely focus on students as users, and often neglect the adult segment. This study entails a new model for evaluation of NFC technology, by uncovering age differences impacts on new technology adoption.
Supply chain planning and trust: two sides of the same coin
Authors: Laureano Paiva Ely , Teixeira Rafael , Marques Vieira Luciana , Beheregaray Finger Andrew
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the relationship between supply planning, trust and integration, and the influence of them on operational performance.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper used a survey with 335 respondents from three different industries. The paper analyzed the data with structural equation modeling.

Findings

– The results suggest that supply planning and trust are positively related and both influence supply integration and operational performance. At the end the paper proposed a classification for supply integration based on planning use and trust.

Research limitations/implications

– The sample is composed by companies from only three industries (machinery, electronics and automobile), what does not allow generalization.

Practical implications

– Managers are challenged to develop simultaneously supply chain planning practices and trust-based relationship within buyers and suppliers. They must pay attention to different integration drivers and use them accordingly and in the context analyzed. The study suggests a 2×2 matrix that might help managers’ decision making.

Originality/value

– Despite the importance of planning in supply and manufacturing management, few papers analyzed the role of supply planning integrated to trust. The combination between these aspects brings a more realistic and pragmatic view of the supply chain management.
Reliability and validity of new product development practices in Indian manufacturing industries
Authors: Vinayak Kalluri , Kodali Rambabu
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to conduct an empirical investigation on the new product development (NPD) practices in Indian manufacturing industries. The NPD best practices constructs are identified from the literature and then an effort have been made to statistically establish the underlying principal components of NPD practices by checking their reliability and validity for the case of Indian manufacturing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

– In all, 96 NPD best practices constructs are identified from literature articles published between 1998 and 2009. Principal component analysis (PCA) is conducted to establish the seven components of NPD practices. Cronbach's α values are computed to measure internal consistency or reliability of the established components of NPD practices. Further, confirmatory factor analysis is conducted on the established measurement model to test a hypothesized factor structure through construct validity, convergent validity and divergent validity.

Findings

– The PCA of NPD best practices identified the seven underlying components (latent variables) namely “NPD strategy,” “NPD support system,” “product portfolio management,” “NPD team,” “NPD tools,” “product launch” and “concept generation.” In NPD strategy, Indian manufacturing companies are highly inclined toward cost reduction, cycle time reduction, competitive advantage and fast follower strategies. All NPD support system constructs are information technology dependent tools which require hardware, software and databases to support it. Indian manufacturing organizations are fundamentally concentrating on right balance of portfolio through improvements in the current products, cost reduction and additions to existing lines by using modular architectures and the reliable and valid NPD tools are FMEA, six sigma/quality management, DFMA/DF’X and QFD.

Originality/value

– To the best of the author's knowledge, this research represents the first attempt to investigate empirically the NPD practices in Indian manufacturing industry.
The role of learning in value co-creation in new technological B2B services
Authors: Komulainen Hanna
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to explore the role of learning in value co-creation in the context of new technological B2B services. The research objective is approached from the customers' viewpoint, in terms of their motivation to make sacrifices in learning and to embark on value co-creation with a service provider.

Design/methodology/approach

– This study is based on a qualitative case study. The main source of data is 17 interviews with retailers who tested a new m-advertising service.

Findings

– The findings show that the customer's motives to make sacrifices, their absorptive capacity and exploitative/explorative learning orientation are important in explaining the role of learning in value co-creation, because perceived value can vary significantly depending on the level of the absorptive capacity of the firm, the orientation towards learning, and the customer's sacrifices in learning.

Practical implications

– The study can be of use to providers of new technological business services in showing how to persuade customers to learn to use the service and engage in value co-creation. This is important since the active participation of both actors is required to co-produce the technological B2B service.

Originality/value

– The study contributes to the existing value theory by offering new critical insights into the essential role of customer learning in value co-creation. Closely related to this, the study explores customer motivation to make sacrifices in learning and to get involved in value co-creation with service provider, specifically in the context of new technological B2B services. In so doing, this study offers empirically-based insights into value co-creation and thus advances the current understanding of value phenomena.
Identifying escalation of commitment in B2B new product development projects using data envelopment analysis
Authors: Donthu Naveen , Unal Belgin
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– Business managers are constantly faced with the decision to continue or abandon new product development projects. However, this type of decision may not be easy. These decisions are usually prone to bias of managers. Managers are known to escalate their commitment toward failed projects. It is also not easy to identify projects that are suffering from escalation of commitment. The purpose of this paper is to propose an objective escalation identification method.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper proposes an objective escalation identification method using data envelopment analysis (DEA). The results from DEA are compared with those of subjective methods of identifying escalation.

Findings

– The objective estimate of escalation given by DEA was comparable to the subjective estimate of escalation given by the managers in the survey.

Research limitations/implications

– DEA is sensitive to outliers and managers should be careful in selecting projects that are to be included for comparison. DEA does not give statistical fit indices as it is an operational research based technique.

Practical implications

– DEA is an objective and automatic tool that makes the decision of managers easier. Managers can use this tool by inputting the output and input variables of their projects and then see which ones are escalated, therefore need to be abandoned. As a consequence, escalation of commitment and big losses can be prevented especially in new product development area.

Originality/value

– By using the proposed objective approach, escalation of commitment and associated big losses can be prevented especially in new product development area.
School principals’ leadership style and school outcomes
Authors: E. Nir Adam , Hameiri Lior
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– While the significance of principals for the organizational behavior of schools is crucial, school leaders’ influence on school outcomes is indirect and mediated through various means that leaders employ in order to increase the productivity of their school. Although the exercise of power is viewed among the main factors explaining followers’ willingness to comply with leaders’ demands and means to promote school effectiveness, it is rather surprising that the educational administration literature lacks substantial evidence testifying to the mediating effect that principals’ use of various powerbases has on school effectiveness. The purpose of this paper is to make an attempt to fill this gap.

Design/methodology/approach

– Questionnaires were administered to 954 teachers coming from 191 randomly sampled public elementary schools.

Findings

– Evidence testifying to the relation between leadership styles and use of powerbases suggests that the transformational leadership style is positively related to the use of soft powerbases and negatively related to the use of harsh powerbases. Findings also show that leadership style and powerbase utilization differentiate effective and ineffective schools. Finally, it is evident that soft powerbases such as expertise, personal reward and referent powerbases partially mediate the relation between the transformational leadership style and school effectiveness, moderating the negative relation found between the passive leadership style and school effectiveness.

Originality/value

– These findings confirm that powerbases are in fact a mechanism through which school leaders influence school effectiveness. Implications are further discussed.
Authenticity in educational leadership: history, ideal, reality
Authors: A. Duignan Patrick
Published: March 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to undertake a personal, historical, analytical and interpretive investigation of the evolution of the concept of authentic leadership in educational administration/leadership over a number of decades.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper includes the author's reflections on his own journey on the topic as well as an analysis of the contributions of great researchers, theorists and writers since early in the twentieth century but, especially, since the early 1960s.

Findings

– While there is no coherent body of literature on the development of the concept of authentic leadership, there is a general discernible trend starting with a focus on self (know thyself, to thine own self be true); to considering and defining self in relationships; to accepting that there is a moral force behind notions of self-fulfillment; to recognising that authentic leaders operate in a real post-modern (perhaps post-post modern) world of pressures, paradoxes and ethical challenges. This is often a world of standards, assessment and accountability for performance outcomes.

Originality/value

– The paper draws on the author's own research journey and legacy on the topic as well as the contributions of “giants in the field” who have continually pushed the envelope when exploring the topic and closely interrelated topics.