bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neocentromeres in 15q24-26 Map to Duplicons Which Flanked an Ancestral Centromere in 15q25
Authors: Ventura Mario , Mudge Jonathan M. , Palumbo Valeria , Burn Sally , Blennow Elisabeth , Pierluigi Mauro , Giorda Roberto , Zuffardi Orsetta , Archidiacono Nicoletta , Jackson Michael S. , Rocchi Mariano
Published: August 2003

The existence of latent centromeres has been proposed as a possible explanation for the ectopic emergence of neocentromeres in humans. This hypothesis predicts an association between the position of neocentromeres and the position of ancient centromeres inactivated during karyotypic evolution. Human chromosomal region 15q24-26 is one of several hotspots where multiple cases of neocentromere emergence have been reported, and it harbors a high density of chromosome-specific duplicons, rearrangements of which have been implicated as a susceptibility factor for panic and phobic disorders with joint laxity. We investigated the evolutionary history of this region in primates and found that it contains the site of an ancestral centromere which became inactivated about 25 million years ago, after great apes/Old World monkeys diverged. This inactivation has followed a noncentromeric chromosomal fission of an ancestral chromosome which gave rise to phylogenetic chromosomes XIV and XV in human and great apes. Detailed mapping of the ancient centromere and two neocentromeres in 15q24-26 has established that the neocentromere domains map approximately 8 Mb proximal and 1.5 Mb distal of the ancestral centromeric region, but that all three map within 500 kb of duplicons, copies of which flank the centromere in Old World Monkey species. This suggests that the association between neocentromere and ancestral centromere position on this chromosome may be due to the persistence of recombinogenic duplications accrued within the ancient pericentromere, rather than the retention of “centromere-competent” sequences per se. The high frequency of neocentromere emergence in the 15q24-26 region and the high density of clinically important duplicons are, therefore, understandable in the light of the evolutionary history of this region.
Transcript Mapping and Genome Annotation of Ascidian mtDNA Using EST Data
Authors: Gissi Carmela , Pesole Graziano
Published: August 2003

Mitochondrial transcripts of two ascidian species were reconstructed through sequence assembly of publicly available ESTs resembling mitochondrial DNA sequences (mt-ESTs). This strategy allowed us to analyze processing and mapping of the mitochondrial transcripts and to investigate the gene organization of a previously uncharacterized mitochondrial genome (mtDNA). This new strategy would greatly facilitate the sequencing and annotation of mtDNAs. In Ciona intestinalis, the assembled mt-ESTs covered 22 mitochondrial genes (∼12,000 bp) and provided the partial sequence of the mtDNA and the prediction of its gene organization. Such sequences were confirmed by amplification and sequencing of the entire Ciona mtDNA. For Halocynthia roretzi, for which the mtDNA sequence was already available, the inferred mt transcripts allowed better definition of gene boundaries (16S rRNA, ND1, ATP6, and tRNA-Ser genes) and the identification of a new gene (an additional Phe-tRNA). In both species, polycistronic and immature transcripts, creation of stop codons by polyadenylation, tRNA signal processing, and rRNA transcript termination signals were identified, thus suggesting that the main features of mitochondrial transcripts are conserved in Chordata.
Transcriptional Response of Lymphoblastoid Cells to Ionizing Radiation
Authors: Jen Kuang-Yu , Cheung Vivian G.
Published: August 2003

The effects of ionizing radiation (IR) on the temporal transcriptional response of lymphoblastoid cells were investigated in this study. We used oligonucleotide microarrays to assess mRNA levels of genes in lymphoblastoid cells at various time points within 24 h following γ-irradiation. We identified 319 and 816 IR-responsive genes following 3 Gy and 10 Gy of IR exposure, respectively, with 126 genes in common between the two doses. A high percentage of IR-responsive genes are involved in the control of cell cycle, cell death, DNA repair, DNA metabolism, and RNA processing. We determined the temporal expression profiles of the IR-responsive genes and assessed effects of IR dose on this temporal pattern of expression. By combining dose-response data with temporal profiles of expression, we have identified sets of coordinately responding genes. Through a genomic approach, we characterized a set of genes that are implicated in cellular adaptation to IR stress. These findings will allow a better understanding of complex processes such as radiation-induced carcinogenesis and the development of biomarkers for radiation exposure.
A General Approach for Identifying Distant Regulatory Elements Applied to the Gdf6 Gene
Authors: Mortlock Douglas P. , Guenther Catherine , Kingsley David M.
Published: August 2003

Regulatory sequences in higher genomes can map large distances from gene coding regions, and cannot yet be identified by simple inspection of primary DNA sequence information. Here we describe an efficient method of surveying large genomic regions for gene regulatory information, and subdividing complex sets of distant regulatory elements into smaller intervals for detailed study. The mouse Gdf6 gene is expressed in a number of distinct embryonic locations that are involved in the patterning of skeletal and soft tissues. To identify sequences responsible for Gdf6 regulation, we first isolated a series of overlapping bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs) that extend varying distances upstream and downstream of the gene. A LacZ reporter cassette was integrated into the Gdf6 transcription unit of each BAC using homologous recombination in bacteria. Each modified BAC was injected into fertilized mouse eggs, and founder transgenic embryos were analyzed for LacZ expression mid-gestation. The overlapping segments defined by the BAC clones revealed five separate regulatory regions that drive LacZ expression in 11 distinct anatomical locations. To further localize sequences that control expression in developing skeletal joints, we created a series of BAC constructs with precise deletions across a putative joint-control region. This approach further narrowed the critical control region to an area containing several stretches of sequence that are highly conserved between mice and humans. A distant 2.9-kilobase fragment containing the highly conserved regions is able to direct very specific expression of a minimal promoter/LacZ reporter in proximal limb joints. These results demonstrate that even distant, complex regulatory sequences can be identified using a combination of BAC scanning, BAC deletion, and comparative sequencing approaches.
A New Method for Rapidly Generating Gene-Targeting Vectors by Engineering BACs Through Homologous Recombination in Bacteria
Authors: Cotta-de-Almeida Vinícius , Schonhoff Susan , Shibata Tomoyuki , Leiter Andrew , Snapper Scott B.
Published: August 2003

Generating knockout mice is still an expensive and highly time-consuming process. Target construct generation, the first labor-intensive step in this process, requires the manipulation of large fragments of DNA and numerous, and often cumbersome, cloning steps. Here we show the development of a rapid approach for generating targeting constructs that capitalizes on efficient homologous recombination between linear DNA fragments and circular plasmids in Escherichia coli (“recombineering”), the availability of bacterial artificial chromosomes (BACs), and the accessibility of the sequence of the mouse genome. Employing recombineering, we demonstrate with only 1–2 template plasmids, short homologies (40–50bp) between donor and target DNA, and one subcloning step that we can efficiently manipulate BACs in situ to generate a complicated targeting vector. This procedure avoids the need to construct or screen genomic libraries and permits the generation of most standard, conditional, or knock-in targeting vectors, often within two weeks.
The Human Transcriptome Map Reveals Extremes in Gene Density, Intron Length, GC Content, and Repeat Pattern for Domains of Highly and Weakly Expressed Genes
Authors: Versteeg, Rogier , van Schaik Barbera D.C. , van Batenburg Marinus F. , Roos Marco , Monajemi Ramin , Caron Huib , Bussemaker Harmen J. , van Kampen Antoine H.C.
Published: August 2003

The chromosomal gene expression profiles established by the Human Transcriptome Map (HTM) revealed a clustering of highly expressed genes in about 30 domains, called ridges. To physically characterize ridges, we constructed a new HTM based on the draft human genome sequence (HTMseq). Expression of 25,003 genes can be analyzed online in a multitude of tissues (http://bioinfo.amc.uva.nl/HTMseq). Ridges are found to be very gene-dense domains with a high GC content, a high SINE repeat density, and a low LINE repeat density. Genes in ridges have significantly shorter introns than genes outside of ridges. The HTMseq also identifies a significant clustering of weakly expressed genes in domains with fully opposite characteristics (antiridges). Both types of domains are open to tissue-specific expression regulation, but the maximal expression levels in ridges are considerably higher than in antiridges. Ridges are therefore an integral part of a higher order structure in the genome related to transcriptional regulation.
Gender in food advertising to children: boys eat first
Authors: Childs Nancy M. , Maher Jill K.
Published: August 2003

Examines advertisers’ use of gender in food advertising to children. Previous studies of gender preference in children’s advertising suggest gender bias exists. Food products are most often gender‐neutral. Advertising for food products is compared to non‐food advertisements. Examines measures of voice‐over gender, gender of dominant product user, gender of main character, activity level, aggressive behavior level, and soundtrack volume. A sample of food advertisements to children exhibits greater gender preference in presentation than the comparison sample of non‐food advertisements to children. This suggests that food advertising should consider gender bias among other factors when proceeding with self‐regulation of children’s advertising.
New predictions for vCJD numbers
Authors: Thomas Philip J. , Newby Martin J. , Zwissler Roger
Published: August 2003

Assuming BSE causes vCJD, the numbers and characteristics of the vCJD outbreak are re‐estimated using vCJD mortality data to the end of 2001. The results of the earlier analyses are confirmed. The mean mortality period is found to be less than ten years, with seven years the most likely figure; the number of human victims will be restricted to hundreds, even if the distribution turns out to be bimodal, and the most likely figure is calculated as 130. The effectiveness of the various countermeasures since 1988 is assessed in terms of lives saved, and the early countermeasures are found to be far and away the most effective. The implications for government policy are examined.
An investigation of the factors underlying consumers’ implementation of specific food safety practices
Authors: Clayton Deborah A. , Griffith Christopher J. , Price Patricia
Published: August 2003

Utilises social cognition models to determine the beliefs, attitudes and knowledge of consumers towards food safety. The main aim was to determine the underlying factors influencing consumers’ implementation of specific food safety practices in the home. The research was conducted in two stages. First, salient beliefs of 100 consumers towards food safety were obtained using open‐ended questions. Second, the food handling practices of 40 consumers were observed and their food safety attitudes and knowledge determined using structured questionnaires. Disparities were shown between participants’ knowledge of specific hygiene practices and their implementation of these practices. Participants demonstrated a lack of and/or inadequate implementation of a number of hygiene practices, including a lack of handwashing, poor hand‐washing technique and inadequate cleaning of surfaces. The results suggest measures of perceived behavioural control, perceived barriers and perceived risk may provide developers of food safety intervention materials with more useful information compared with measures of knowledge or intention.
An evaluation of the NPD activities of four food manufacturers
Authors: Rudder Alison
Published: August 2003

Highlights the large number of food product innovations and extensions being developed across Europe. The types of developments are often represented as “new developments”’ in their broadest sense. Research was undertaken to ascertain the types of developments being embarked on by SME food manufacturers and to identify the influences to which they are subjected when trying to meet the needs of the retailer, and ultimately the consumer. Concludes that food manufacturers are proactive in making a range of “adjustments” to their products rather than developing “new to the world products”.
What makes a great chef?
Authors: Pratten J.D.
Published: August 2003

The development of the UK restaurant industry is briefly outlined, and then the study seeks to examine the skills and characteristics needed to progress as a chef. Rather than describe the factors that drive workers from the trade, they are explored as problems which must be accepted and overcome, and virtues which must be acquired if anyone aspires to become a great chef. Sources include the comments of top chefs, food writers and others within the industry, as well as lengthy discussions with, and observations of, those working within the sector.
Information literacy, a worldwide priority for the twenty‐first century
Authors: Rockman Ilene F.
Published: August 2003

Concentrates on information literacy, by way of attendance at an international symposium, which was a common theme by the speakers. Records that information literacy is a worldwide phenomenon and not just a movement in the USA. Concludes it is important that students build on a strong foundation of information literacy skills and abilities using the faculty‐librarian partnerships fully to do this.
Limited English proficient users and the need for improved reference services
Authors: Pyati Ajit
Published: August 2003

Public libraries have long neglected the needs of limited English proficiency (LEP) users. With the changing demographics of the USA, however, services to LEP users will become more important in the future. Current programs that target ethnolinguistic minorities focus mainly on outreach programs, and not on reference services. This paper addresses some of the issues in reference services for LEP users, namely reference interviewing, information‐seeking behavior, foreign language reference materials, and multilingual online catalogs. Possible research avenues and future directions in improving reference service for LEP users conclude the discussion. Libraries must address issues of multiculturalism, and the needs of their limited English users, to survive and flourish in the coming decades.
The focus group method in libraries: issues relating to process and data analysis
Authors: Von Seggern Marilyn , Young Nancy J.
Published: August 2003

Focus groups are becoming more widely used in libraries as a means of gathering data from the users’ point‐of‐view about how they find and use information. This article discusses the major issues in planning a focus group project and describes the use of a computer assisted qualitative data analysis software package, The Ethnograph, for data analysis. An annotated bibliography of useful focus group literature accompanies the article.
Rich man, poor man: resources on globalization
Authors: Hammond Carol , Grosse Robert
Published: August 2003

Globalization is often described as one of the most significant trends of our time, with far‐reaching consequences for mankind. This is an introduction to the topic and includes an essay and a selected, annotated bibliography. In the essay, the author provides a definition of globalization as an economic trend with social, political, environmental and cultural consequences. Many view it as a clear “good or bad” and this introduction explains why it is controversial, so much so that it has inspired both strong supporters and passionate foes. The role of multinational corporations, the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund and the World Trade Organization in globalization is discussed. An annotated bibliography of 30 current books, almost all published in 2000 or more recently, representing different perspectives and issues related to globalization, is provided.
High‐involvement work practices and employee bargaining power
Authors: Guy Frederick
Published: August 2003

High involvement work practices (HIWPs) may empower employees to do their jobs better, and also empower them at the bargaining table. This paper considers whether non‐universal adoption of productivity‐enhancing work practices may, at least in part, be explained by this dual nature of empowerment. It examines the case of a customer service programme in the Northern California division of Safeway stores, its affect on the outcome of a strike against Safeway, and the subsequent pattern of adoption (and non‐adoption) of similar programmes among Safeway's competitors. It concludes that the dual nature of empowerment can help explain the apparent paradox posed by empirical studies; that although HIWPs improve the performance of all sorts of organisations, most organisations do not adopt HIWPs.
Assessing the inputs and outputs of partnership arrangements for health and safety management
Authors: Vassie L.H. , Fuller C.W.
Published: August 2003

Partnerships have the potential to create significant benefits for all participants provided that there is a mutual understanding of and respect for the inputs required and the outputs sought from the arrangements by each party. The aim of this study was to explore the inputs required and the outputs achieved by partners as a function of the level of involvement required within the partnership arrangement. The study has investigated the extent to which the input criteria defined by the DTI and the output criteria defined by Kanter, within three health and safety initiatives involving homeworker‐employer, employee‐employer, and contractor‐employer partnerships varied, as a function of the level of partnership defined by Thompson and Sanders. The examination of the partnership arrangements within the three case studies demonstrated that the inputs were very similar whether the arrangements were classified as co‐operation, collaboration or coalescence, although the extent of the output criteria was greatest in the case of the coalescence partnership. The results illustrated the level of inputs required within a range of partnership arrangements in the context of health and safety management and the range of outputs that might be anticipated.
Firm wage differentials in a competitive industry: some matched‐panel evidence
Authors: Martins Pedro S.
Published: August 2003

Studies wage dispersion across firms and time in a specific industry that exhibits competitive features – the Portuguese clothing industry in the 1991‐1994 period. By drawing on a large matched employer‐employee panel, obtains the following results: the workers' firm affiliation plays an important role in wage determination; there is a sizeable and persistent dispersion of firm‐fixed effects, which is also similar for workers of different tenure levels and occupations; workers in high‐turnover firms are generally paid less. It is believed that these findings are not consistent with a simple competitive labour market model.
Industry wage differentials and the bargaining regime in a corporatist country
Authors: Rycx François
Published: August 2003

This paper examines the role of the bargaining regime in bringing about inter‐industry wage differentials in the Belgian private sector. Empirical findings, based on the 1995 Structure of Earnings Survey, emphasise that sectors offering high/low wages are similar for workers covered by different bargaining regimes, even when controlling for individual characteristics, working conditions and firm size. Moreover, results show that, ceteris paribus, the dispersion of inter‐industry wage differentials is higher when wages are collectively renegotiated at the firm level, and workers covered by a company collective agreement (CA) earn 5.1 per cent more than their opposite numbers whose wages are solely covered by national and/or sectoral CAs.
Insider power and wage determination in Bulgaria: an econometric investigation
Authors: Dobbelaere Sabien
Published: August 2003

Using a unique three‐digit firm‐level data set of all medium‐ and large‐sized manufacturing enterprises in Bulgaria covering the years 1997/1998, and investigation is conducted into how wage determination is related to ownership status. Building on a slightly modified version of the right‐to‐manage model, the pooled OLS, panel and first‐difference TSLS estimates show statistically significant differences in the share of rents taken by workers employed in state, private domestic and foreign firms. Taking account of firm heterogeneity, it is found that rent sharing is nearly non‐existent in foreign‐owned firms, while the level of pay is higher compared with state‐owned companies. Further, rent sharing seems to be highly pronounced in state‐owned enterprises, while on average domestically private‐owned companies are characterised by less rent sharing. Overall, the robustness checks confirm these findings.
Rent sharing as firm‐level pay
Authors: Piekkola Hannu , Kauhanen Antti
Published: August 2003

The aim of this paper is to examine rent sharing under a heterogeneous workforce using Finnish linked employer‐employee data in 1987‐1998. Rent sharing is one component of the empirically estimated firm‐effect and depends on the sensitivity of firm‐level payments to quasi‐rents. It is shown that rent sharing moderates other forms of firm‐level wages. Thus, the lower the starting wages, the higher rent sharing will be. Alternatively, in many firms new workers are attracted to the job by paying high entry wages, while these new workers do not obtain the full level of rent sharing in the first years of service. Highly educated workers are the main targets of rent sharing and rent sharing is more common in R&D‐intensive firms. All this shows the importance of human capital accumulation and flexible technology in explaining rent sharing. This can also explain why rent sharing is targeted at experienced workers in R&D‐intensive firms. In non‐R&D‐intensive firms, job search is also of importance. Rent sharing is more common when highly educated workers have flexible labour supply.
Performance pay, monitoring environments, and establishment performance
Authors: Belfield Richard , Marsden David
Published: August 2003

This study uses cross‐section and panel data from the 1998Workplace Employee Relations Surveyto explore contextual influences on the relationship between performance‐related pay (PRP) and organizational performance. While it finds strong evidence that the use of PRP can enhance performance outcomes, it also determines that this relationship is qualified by the structure of workplace monitoring environments. In addition, it presents evidence that managers learn about optimum combinations of pay system and monitoring environment through a process of experimentation. Finally, although there exists a robust positive association in these data between use of PRP and pay inequality, it appears that these higher levels of inequality carry no performance penalty.
Pay inequalities and team performance
Authors: Frick Bernd , Prinz Joachim , Winkelmann Karina
Published: August 2003

Wage disparities and their consequences have long been a topic of economic research. While most papers focus on describing the development of wage differentials over time and seek to identify the reasons for the observed patterns, few attempts have been made to analyze the influence of pay inequality on economic outcomes. A unique and rather large data set from the North American team sports industry is used to address the question how wage disparities affect the performance of professional teams. First, changes in intra‐ and inter‐team wage inequality are documented. Second, the impact of wage inequality on team performance is directly analyzed. Overall, the results differ to a considerable degree between the four major leagues, suggesting that the relative importance of high‐powered incentives and cooperation is different in football and hockey from basketball and baseball.
Managerial work roles in Asia
Authors: Pearson Cecil A.L. , Chatterjee Samir R.
Published: August 2003

In an increasingly competitive global environment, impacted by a myriad of social, economic and technological forces, managerial roles have, over the past two decades, undergone dramatic transformation. Indeed, managers around the world are struggling to redefine their roles and responsibilities against a backdrop of the classic ten roles of managers espoused by Mintzberg in the 1970s, which were based on research in the US context. Yet these traditional roles are still widely taught in universities and training programs, and particularly all over Asia with the spread of Western business education literature. The relevance of the Mintzberg formulation in the Asian context was the aim of this four country study. The study reports the importance and degree of use of the ten Mintzberg managerial roles in the contemporary Asian context. The findings suggest although the roles overlap considerably, they are acted out in a very different manner. Implications for the findings in an international market arena are discussed.
The influence of corporate culture and organisational commitment on performance
Authors: Abdul Rashid Zabid , Sambasivan Murali , Johari Juliana
Published: August 2003

This paper examines the influence of corporate culture and organisational commitment on financial performance in Malaysian companies. Based on the work of Deshpande and Farley on corporate cultural types and Allen and Meyer on organisational commitment, a structured questionnaire was developed and self‐administered to managers in Malaysian companies. A total of 202 managers in public listed companies participated in the study. The results show that there is a significant correlation between corporate culture and organisational commitment. Both corporate culture type and organisational commitment have an influence on the financial performance of these companies. The implications of the study are also discussed.
Public libraries and the consortium purchase of electronic resources
Authors: Ball David
Published: August 2003

This paper embodies research on the purchasing of electronic resources by public libraries. It sought to identify what works well and what is problematic with respect to the management of commercial products. Views were also sought on future development, and how procurement could best be managed. The main concerns identified were the lack of a national dimension and strategy, and of expertise in individual authorities and consortia, particularly with licences. Purchasers were felt to be reactive, not taking control of the procurement by specifying requirements. E‐resources were felt to be very expensive; there was not necessarily any price advantage as a result of consortial negotiations. It was also felt that hard‐copy and e‐resource procurement and strategy should not be separated. Licence terms and pricing models were felt to be confusing, and the interfaces provided inappropriate.
Barriers of bibliographic database creation in Indian university libraries: the INFLIBNET experience
Authors: Chandrakar Rajesh
Published: August 2003

On the one hand the world has reached the last stages of library automation, while, on the other, the Internet has revolutionized it with different concepts such as the electronic, digital, virtual and library without walls. Now, professionals are researching knowledge management, Internet cataloguing, copy cataloguing, metadata, Z39.50 retrieval protocol, and resource sharing in the context of inter‐library loan, document delivery services, Internet services through Net etc. Unfortunately in an Indian context, libraries are still in the process of the automation and digitization of their resources. This paper discusses some of the barriers to progress in these areas in university libraries in India.
Myongji University digital library project: implementing a KORMARC/EAD integrated system
Authors: Kim Hyun‐Hee
Published: August 2003

Proposes to design and implement a metadata system for Myongji University (MJU) library collections that allows users to search all library materials using one user interface. Briefly introduces two MJU digital library projects, then describes the first project where a KORMARC/encoded archival description (EAD) metadata system that allows users to conduct integrated searches is to be designed, implemented and evaluated. The KORMARC/EAD metadata system consists of two modules: a retrieval module and an input module. While in the retrieve mode, one can retrieve KORMARC records of all library materials such as books and course materials, with links to EAD files for both archival items and course materials or to full‐text image files for precious books. In the input mode, users can input two types of data such as catalog data and inventory data. Finally, evaluates the proposed system via mail questionnaires, and proposes three suggestions to make this system a much more comprehensive and effective system.
Digging deep into derivatives: trying to make life easier – techniques for measuring derivative credit exposure
Authors: Sees Karl
Published: August 2003

The widespread use of derivatives in asset and liability management raises the issue of appropriate measurement of credit exposure. However, nearly all industry literature focuses on the needs of the most sophisticated dealers, which presents a problem for those users who want to improve the measurement of derivative credit exposure, but are unable to commercially justify the expense of cutting edge techniques. This article attempts to fill this gap by examining the range of pragmatic approaches available, together with their key pros and cons.
Digging deep into derivatives: balance sheet management – making strategic decision‐making better
Authors: Ferranti Kim
Published: August 2003

In this case study the author describes how the Ohio State Savings Bank tied its strategic decision‐making to its balance sheet management processes and interest rate risk process.
Digging deep into derivatives: accounting for derivatives – how the accounting standards stack up
Authors: Dunne Theresa , Helliar Christine , Power David
Published: August 2003

Derivatives reporting requirements are numerous and varied – from the disclosure only requirements of FRS 13, to the abolishment of hedge accounting proposed by the JWG. The present article attempts to outline the differences and similarities between the various derivatives accounting standards and proposed standards.
The challenge of XBRL: business reporting for the investor
Authors: Jones Alison , Willis Mike
Published: August 2003

The Internet financial reporting language known as XBRL continues to develop and has now reached the point where much of its promised benefits are available. The authors look at the history of this project, provide a case study of how Morgan Stanley has made use of the system and predict some developments for the future.
Keeping banks competitive: a foundation for robust performance management
Authors: Convery Shawn
Published: August 2003

Life is becoming tougher and tougher for banks. The author shows how a series of fundamental techniques, like funds transfer pricing, can make life simpler when used under an economic value management framework and can provide banks with the extra competitive edge that they need.
Asset management: providing solutions in difficult times
Authors: Bruce Robert
Published: August 2003

With markets in disarray asset management has become an ever more difficult task. In this article, the author, Editor of Balance Sheet magazine, describes the options put forward by GMO Woolley, one of the most successful and innovative of the players in this field.
Matsushita realigns its supply chain in China
Authors: Jiang Bin , Hansen John D.
Published: August 2003

An efficient supply chain is becoming increasingly important as globalization and technological advancement combine to make the modern marketplace more competitive than ever. An example of this can be seen at Matsushita, a Japanese‐based industry leader who has had to fight to remain competitive in the face of low‐cost Chinese competitors. Faced with declining sales and profits due to cost deficiencies in its supply chain, Matsushita realized that its long‐term success was contingent upon a supply chain realignment. This realignment has included the transfer of many tasks to China. Historically known for its inexpensive land and labor, China is increasingly becoming recognized for its technological expertise and the availability of low‐cost production components. Matsushita’s revamped supply chain is utilizing all of these resources. Through this realignment Matsushita hopes to reverse its recent trend of declining sales and profits; the early results are promising.
Trusting an auction
Authors: Griffiths Adrian
Published: August 2003

Examines the ability of online auctions to adversely affect relationships between suppliers and buyers. Buyers have to consider relationships with their own company, existing suppliers and new suppliers, building trust and being aware of competing objectives. This article considers how an auction changes the dynamics of these relationships, outlines the positives for using auctions but highlights some possible abuses of the system.
An innovative performance measurement method for supply chain management
Authors: Chan Felix T.S. , Qi H.J.
Published: August 2003

Supply chain management has become such a popular topic in modern business management and researches. It brings the revolutionary philosophy and approach to manage the business with the sustained competitiveness. However, the existing performance measurement theory fails to provide its necessary support in strategy development, decision making, and performance improvement. This paper attempts to propose an innovative performance measurement method to contribute to the development of supply chain management. A process‐based systematic perspective is employed to build an effective model to measure the holistic performance of complex supply chains. Fuzzy set theory is introduced to address the real situation in judgment and evaluation processes. The main framework of this method is outlined with some suggestions and a simple example.
Achieving high satisfaction in supplier‐dealer working relationships
Authors: Jonsson Patrik , Zineldin Mosad
Published: August 2003

Increased attention has been paid to the question of how to build stable and long‐term working relationships between suppliers and dealers. This study proposes a conceptual model including behavioral dimensions of supplier‐dealer relationships and presents hypotheses about how to achieve satisfactory inter‐organizational relationships. Satisfaction is the consequence of working relationships focused upon in our model. The model is an empirical assessment of the relationship between Swedish lumber dealers and their suppliers. T‐test evidence suggests that all proposed critical variables, with the exception of coercive power, are of significant importance for achieving a high rate of perceived relationship satisfaction, regardless of whether the relationship is characterized by a high or a low level of trust and commitment. A good reputation, close relationship and positive relationship benefits are key variables for the achievement of high satisfaction in a “high‐trust and commitment relationship”. Results also indicate that it is possible to achieve a high satisfaction level even when the supplier‐dealer trust and commitment are lacking.
Factors influencing global supply chain efficiency: implications for information systems
Authors: Prasad Sameer , Sounderpandian Jayavel
Published: August 2003

Gaining a competitive advantage in international supply chains requires matching the value‐adding activities of a chain with the unique comparative advantages offered by diverse nations that make up the chain. To do this, a supply chain manager must identify and control the factors that influence the performance of the chain in each of the three areas, namely, procurement, processing and distribution. Controlling these factors requires, among other things, setting up suitable information systems. This article provides a checklist of factors and offers suggestions for international supply chain managers to gain competitive advantage.
Adoption of efficient consumer response: key issues and challenges in Australia
Authors: Kurnia Sherah , Johnston Robert B.
Published: August 2003

Efficient consumer response (ECR) is an electronic commerce (EC)‐enabled grocery industry supply chain management strategy, which is designed to make the industry more efficient and responsive. Despite the many benefits obtainable from ECR, the adoption rate has been slow in many regions. At this stage, there is no well‐developed theory of adoption of technologies at this wide scale that can explain this slow uptake. This paper explores the experiences of the Australian grocery industry with ECR adoption. In order to obtain a more reliable snapshot of ECR adoption practices, barriers and perceptions, this study employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods. Since the Australian grocery industry has a unique structure, important observations obtained from this study enrich previous ECR adoption studies.
Managing innovation in regional supply networks: a Dutch case of “knowledge industry clustering”
Authors: Batenburg Ronald , Rutten Roel
Published: August 2003

This paper presents a case study on the collaboration between Océ, a large Dutch manufacturer of copiers and printers, and several of its lead suppliers within the so‐called “knowledge industry clustering” (KIC) project. In 1993 Océ initiated this project to enable innovation by creating inter‐organizational teams and new combinations based on the knowledge and skills of different suppliers. Based on data collected from 28 interviews with respondents that were involved at both the Océ and supplier side of ten different “knowledge clusters”, it is concluded that the critical success factors primarily point at the importance of creating trust in such inter‐organizational teams.
A framework for sourcing product development services
Authors: Barragan Salvador , Cappellino Charles , Dempsey Neil , Rothenberg Sandra
Published: August 2003

Reflects on the experience of three product development teams to build a framework to aid in the process of strategic sourcing. Focuses on patterns observed across these three new product development projects in terms of challenges in strategic sourcing. Building from these observations, proposes a four‐step decision‐making framework that enables product development teams and managers to make informed product development sourcing decisions. The framework was designed to have enough structure to guide the sourcing decision process, but flexible enough to promote challenging thinking and deep analysis.
Continuity and Change in Personality Traits From Adolescence to Midlife: A 25‐Year Longitudinal Study Comparing Representative and Adjudicated Men
Authors: Morizot Julien , Le Blanc Marc
Published: August 2003

Abstract In the first study, a hierarchical structure of personality traits was identified using data from a longitudinal study tracing two samples of men from adolescence to midlife (i.e., a representative sample of the general population and a sample of individuals adjudicated during their adolescence). The second study examined structural, rank‐order, and mean‐level continuity. Partial structural continuity was demonstrated through confirmatory factor analysis. Regarding rank‐order continuity, the correlations were stronger as age increased, particularly for the adjudicated men. For mean‐level continuity, the adjudicated men displayed higher scores from adolescence to midlife for nearly every personality trait related to Disinhibition and Negative Emotionality. Significant decreases were observed in these traits for both samples, supporting the hypothesis of a normative psychological maturation. Although both samples showed this maturation, the adjudicated men displayed a lower rate of change during adolescence and early adulthood. The two samples did not differ in Extraversion and this trait remained more stable, particularly for adjudicated men.
A Behavioral Genetic Study of the Overlap Between Personality and Parenting
Authors: Spinath Frank M. , O'Connor Thomas G.
Published: August 2003

Abstract The current study had three aims. The first was to examine the covariation between personality of parents and parenting behaviors. The second aim was to examine the genetic and environmental influences on parenting behaviors. The third aim was to examine the extent to which the association between personality and parenting was mediated by genetic and environmental factors. Personality (Five Factor Model, NEO‐FFI) and parenting data were collected as part of a larger German study of 300 adult twin pairs (GOSAT). The current paper analyzes data on a subset of the 300 twin pairs from the GOSAT sample who were concordant for having children (n=98 pairs or 196 individuals). Results indicated modest overlap between personality and parenting. In addition, univariate behavioral genetic analyses indicated moderate genetic influence on select parenting dimensions. Results also indicated that the moderate phenotypic covariation between personality and parenting was attributed largely to nongenetic factors. Implications of the findings for research on parenting and personality are considered.
In Search of the Organismic Valuing Process: The Human Tendency to Move Towards Beneficial Goal Choices
Authors: Sheldon Kennon M. , Arndt Jamie , Houser‐Marko Linda
Published: August 2003

AbstractWe attempted to testRogers' (1951)concept of the organismic valuing process (OVP) by assessing changes in peoples' goal choices over time. When changes occur, are they more or less random, or do people tend to move towards goals that are more likely to be beneficial, both for themselves and others? “Beneficial” goals were defined as goals typically associated with subjective well‐being (SWB) and with prosocial behavior—specifically, we focused on the distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic goal contents (Kasser & Ryan, 1996). In three studies, participants tended to move towards intrinsic goals and/or away from extrinsic goals over periods ranging from 20 minutes to 6 weeks. These changes were not reducible to social desirability nor to the differing motives underlying differing goal contents, did not vary for persons of different value‐types, and had not changed when participants were retested a third time. We conclude that people may have a positive bias toward changing their minds in directions most likely to be SWB enhancing.
Anybody Can Be a Boss But Only Certain People Make Good Subordinates: Behavioral Impacts of Striving for Dominance and Dominance Aversion
Authors: Mast Marianne Schmid , Hall Judith A.
Published: August 2003

Abstract The present study investigated whether people in assigned subordinate or dominant roles differ in their dominance behavior according to whether they initially wanted a subordinate or a dominant role. Sixty‐six females and 72 males interacted twice for 8 mins in same‐gender dyads. Prior to the interaction, participants could indicate whether they preferred to take a subordinate or a dominant role. Roles were then assigned randomly. Both interactions were videotaped and later coded for perceived dominance and speaking time. Results showed that for assigned subordinates, those who initially wanted to be in the dominant position were perceived as more dominant and behaved more dominantly than those who initially wanted to be in the subordinate role. For assigned high‐dominance people, there was no difference in perceived dominance and behavioral dominance between those who initially wanted the dominant versus subordinate position.
Actually how Empowering is Microcredit?
Authors: Mahmud Simeen
Published: August 2003

This article re‐assesses the effect of microcredit programme participation on women's empowerment by applying an analytical framework that recognizes the conceptual shift in emphasis in the definition of empowerment, from notions of greater well‐being of women to notions of women's choice and active agency in the attainment of greater well‐being. The author finds that microcredit programme participation has only a limited direct effect in increasing women's access to choice‐enhancing resources, but has a much stronger effect in increasing women's ability to exercise agency in intra‐household processes. Consequently, programme participation is able to increase women's welfare and possibly to reduce male bias in welfare outcomes, particularly in poor households.
On the Spatial Dynamics of Democratic Politics: Analysing the Bolivian Case
Authors: Slater David
Published: August 2003

After an initial discussion of the ‘diverse spaces of democracy’, which sets out the main points of the author's approach to democratic politics, this article considers three perspectives on the relations between governmental decentralization and territorial democracy in Latin America. These two interrelated sections provide a thematic and conceptual background to a more specific treatment of the development and dynamics of decentralization in the Bolivian case. In examining the decentralization process in Bolivia, the article highlights the two spatial modes of this process — the regional and the local — and includes an appraisal of the relation between both modes and the nature of democratic politics.
The Spatially Splintered State: Myths and Realities in the Regulation of Marine Fisheries in Tamil Nadu, India
Authors: Bavinck Maarten
Published: August 2003

The spatial dimension of law is a neglected field of study. This article responds to suggestions that have been made to develop a ‘geography of law’, and investigates expressions of State‐centred law regarding common pool natural resources. It asks how variations in law between lower‐level territorial units are to be explained in situations where patterns of resource exploitation are similar and the overarching State proclaims an even approach. To explore these issues, the article focuses on a case study of Tamil Nadu marine fisheries. Comparing the reality of State regulation in different coastal districts, the author argues that the State occupies a relatively weak position vis‐à‐vis user groups, and strives to maximize its legitimacy by adapting to local political circumstances. The end result is a legal patchwork with strong spatial connotations.
Struggling to Save Cash: Seasonal Migration and Vulnerability in West Bengal, India
Authors: Rogaly Ben , Rafique Abdur
Published: August 2003

This article concerns an important but overlooked means by which able‐bodied poor people get hold of lump sums of cash in rural West Bengal: seasonal migration for agricultural wage work. Drawing on a regional study of four migration streams, our main focus here is on the struggle to secure this cash by landless households in just one of those streams, originating in Murshidabad District. Case studies are used to illustrate the importance for women in nuclear families of maintaining supportive networks of kin for periods when men are absent. A parallel analysis is made of the negotiations between male migrant workers and their employers, at labour markets, during the period of work, and afterwards. The article then briefly discusses some of the contrasting ways in which remittances are used by landless households and owners of very small plots of land, in the context of rapid ecological change, demographic pressure and growing inequality.