bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesoscale vegetation‐atmosphere feedbacks in Amazonia
Authors: Roy Somnath Baidya
Published: October 2009

This paper investigates vegetation‐climate interactions in disturbed rain forests of Amazonia. The scientific objective of this paper is twofold. The first goal is to reconcile the discrepancy between the decrease in precipitation predicted by general circulation models and the observed increase in precipitation due to deforestation in Rondonia. Numerical experiments with the Regional Atmospheric Modeling System (RAMS) show that sharp gradients in land cover due to fishbone deforestation trigger organized mesoscale circulations, leading to more clouds and rain over the deforested patches. The second goal is to develop and implement a modeling framework to identify and explore the fundamental pathways involved in deforestation‐climate feedback over seasonal timescales. For this purpose, RAMS model outputs are combined with tower observations to develop a synthetic meteorological data set representing the impacts of deforestation on local hydrometeorology. A vegetation model forced by these data shows that extra rain promotes plant growth in the deforested patches during the water‐limited dry season. This phenomenon constitutes a seasonal‐scale “negative feedback” because accelerated vegetation recovery compensates for the effects of deforestation. This paper suggests that the regional climate observation infrastructure must be upgraded to resolve mesoscale feedbacks to accurately estimate the impact of deforestation in Amazonia. Moreover, these findings can significantly improve our understanding of ecosystem resiliency in disturbed tropical forests.
Theoretically based optimal large-eddy simulation
Authors: Moser Robert D. , Malaya Nicholas P. , Chang Henry , Zandonade Paulo S. , Vedula Prakash , Bhattacharya Amitabh , Haselbacher Andreas
Published: October 2009

Large eddy simulation (LES), in which the large scales of turbulence are simulated while the effects of the small scales are modeled, is an attractive approach for predicting the behavior of turbulent flows. However, there are a number of modeling and formulation challenges that need to be addressed for LES to become a robust and reliable engineering analysis tool. Optimal LES is a LES modeling approach developed to address these challenges. It requires multipoint correlation data as input to the modeling, and to date these data have been obtained from direct numerical simulations (DNSs). If optimal LES is to be generally useful, this need for DNS statistical data must be overcome. In this paper, it is shown that the Kolmogorov inertial range theory, along with an assumption of small-scale isotropy, the application of the quasinormal approximation and a mild modeling assumption regarding the three-point third-order correlation are sufficient to determine all the correlation data required for optimal LES modeling. The models resulting from these theoretically determined correlations are found to perform well in isotropic turbulence, with better high-wavenumber behavior than the dynamic Smagorinsky model. It is expected that these theory-based optimal models will be applicable to a wide range of turbulent flows, in which the small scales can be modeled as isotropic and inertial. The optimal models developed here are expressed as generalized quadratic and linear finite-volume operators. There are significant quantitative differences between these optimal LES operators and standard finite-volume operators, and these differences can be interpreted as the model of the subgrid effects. As with most other LES models, these theory-based optimal models are expected to break down near walls and other strong inhomogeneities.
Influence of inlet radius on Stokes flow in a circular tube via the Hamiltonian systematic method
Authors: Wang G. P. , Xu X. S. , Zhang Y. X.
Published: October 2009

This paper presents a new semianalytical method, Hamiltonian systematic method, for solving axisymmetric problems of Stokes flow. In the system, nonzero-eigenvalue solutions can describe local effect near the boundary and therefore the influence of inlet radius on the flow can be investigated. A rule of minimal entrance length is discussed on the basis of the criteria which are defined by axial flow deviating from the full developed (Hagen–Poseuille) flow. Numerical results show that the entrance length is related to the inlet radius, and there is one minimal point on the relationship curve, namely, there is one minimal entrance length. Besides, pressures have the characteristic too and the minimal point is same. The method can also be generalized to other fields.
Effect of electric field and temperature gradient on the orientational dynamics of liquid crystals in a microvolume cylindrical cavity
Authors: Zakharov A. V. , Vakulenko A. A. , Romano Silvano
Published: October 2009

We have considered a homogeneously aligned liquid crystal (HALC) microvolume confined between two infinitely long horizontal coaxial cylinders and investigated dynamic field pumping, i.e., studied the interactions between director, velocity, and electric E fields as well as a radially applied temperature gradient ∇T, where the inner cylinder is kept at a lower temperature than the outer one. In order to elucidate the role of ∇T in producing hydrodynamic flow u, we have carried out a numerical study of a system of hydrodynamic equations including director reorientation, fluid flow, and temperature redistribution across the HALC cavity. Calculations show that only under the influence of ∇T does the initially quiescent HALC sample settle down to a stationary flow regime with horizontal component of velocity ueq(r). The effects of ∇T and of the size of the HALC cavity on magnitude and direction of ueq(r) have been investigated for a number of hydrodynamic regimes. Calculations also showed that E influences only the director redistribution across the HALC but not the magnitude of the velocity ueq(r).
Enhanced hydrogen adsorption in boron substituted carbon nanospaces
Authors: Firlej L. , Roszak Sz. , Kuchta B. , Pfeifer P. , Wexler Carlos
Published: October 2009

Activated carbons are one of promising groups of materials for reversible storage of hydrogen by physisorption. However, the heat of hydrogen adsorption in such materials is relatively low, in the range of about 4–8 kJ/mol, which limits the total amount of hydrogen adsorbed at P=100 bar to ∼2 wt % at room temperature and ∼8 wt % at 77 K. To improve the sorption characteristics the adsorbing surfaces must be modified either by substitution of some atoms in the all-carbon skeleton by other elements, or by doping/intercalation with other species. In this letter we present ab initio calculations and Monte Carlo simulations showing that substitution of 5%–10% of atoms in a nanoporous carbon by boron atoms results in significant increases in the adsorption energy (up to 10–13.5 kJ/mol) and storage capacity (∼5 wt % at 298 K, 100 bar) with a 97% delivery rate.
Magnetic tunnel junction on a ferroelectric substrate
Authors: Pertsev N. A. , Kohlstedt H.
Published: October 2009

The concept of a magnetic tunnel junction fabricated on a ferroelectric substrate is described theoretically. It is shown that the application of a moderate electric field to a substrate having strong piezoelectric response may induce an in-plane magnetization rotation in a ferromagnetic electrode made of a highly magnetostrictive cubic material with small magnetocrystalline anisotropy. Remarkably, an abrupt change of the junction’s electrical resistance can result from the substrate-induced magnetization reorientation in the free ferromagnetic layer. Hence the described hybrid multiferroic device may be employed as an electric-write nonvolatile magnetic memory cell with nondestructive readout.
Influence of nanocrystal size on dielectric functions of Si nanocrystals embedded in SiO2 matrix
Authors: Zhang Rong-Jun , Chen Yi-Ming , Lu Wei-Jie , Cai Qing-Yuan , Zheng Yu-Xiang , Chen Liang-Yao
Published: October 2009

The complex dielectric functions of Si-nanocrystals (nc-Si) with different sizes embedded in SiO2 matrix synthesized by SiOx/SiO2 superlattice approach is obtained by spectroscopic ellipsometry. The Maxwell–Garnett effective medium approximation and the Lorentz oscillator model are employed in the spectra fitting. The dependence of the dielectric functions on the nc-Si size is observed. A significant suppression in amplitude of the dielectric functions with respect to bulk crystalline silicon, and a large influence of the nc-Si size on the E1 and E2 critical points are observed and discussed.
Spectral emission of flames from laboratory-scale vegetation fires
Authors: Boulet P. , Parent G. , Collin A. , Acem Z. , Porterie B. , Clerc J. P. , Consalvi J. L. , Kaiss A.
Published: October 2009

Outdoor experiments were conducted on a laboratory scale to study the infrared radiation emission of vegetation flames. Measurements were made in the spectral range 1000–4500 cm–1, using a compact and portable Fourier-transform infrared spectrometer including an HgCdTe/InSb dual detector. Flame emission was compared with the reference signal emitted by a blackbody surface at 1000 K. We carried out two different series of fire experiments: a series of fires in a 0.45 m-diameter steel tray and a series of wind-tunnel fires. Various types of wildland fuels were used: wood wool, vine branches, dry wood, and Kermes oak branches. From a qualitative observation of emission spectra, it appears that the main contribution comes from the hot gaseous combustion products, with a low-intensity background radiation from soot, as the small-scale flames in these experiments were optically thin. It was also found that, in the flaming combustion zone of the fuel bed, both phases contribute to infrared emission. Our results, in combination with existing data on the absorptivity of vegetation, give a better understanding of radiative transfer in vegetation fires and show how total radiative properties could be deduced from spectral measurements. We believe that this preliminary study provides pilot data for future studies in this area.
An experiment to test the potential for glass fragments to ignite wildland fuels
Authors: Wittich Klaus-Peter , Müller Tanja
Published: October 2009

It is current opinion that glass fragments can serve as an ignition source for grassland, bush and forest fires by focussing sunlight. In order to check the validity of this assumption, ignition experiments were conducted in the open over six litter samples taken from forests in northern Germany. Of several glass fragments, the five bottle bottoms best focussing sunlight were installed 15–50 cm above the litter materials. We found that one bottle bottom was able to slightly char spruce needles, beech leaves and blades of grass. Although this particular bottle bottom let the temperature increase up to 327°C, flame formation did not occur. A secondary (but more realistic) experiment with a glass-bottle bottom lying on the litter led to a maximum temperature of 82°C in the space between the litter and the glass fragment.
Reproductive strategies of the short-beaked echidna - a review with new data from a long-term study on the Tasmanian subspecies (Tachyglossus aculeatus setosus)
Authors: Morrow Gemma , Andersen Niels A. , Nicol Stewart C.
Published: October 2009

The short-beaked echidna is the most widely distributed endemic Australian mammal, and echidnas from different geographic areas differ so much in appearance that they have been assigned to several subspecies. In this paper, we present data obtained from free-ranging echidnas in southern Tasmania, and compare this with studies from other parts of Australia. In Tasmania mating occurs between early June and mid-September, and throughout Australia the normal breeding season lies within these limits. In echidnas from the more easterly parts of Australia reproduction closely follows hibernation, with Tasmanian echidnas showing a significant overlap between hibernation and reproduction. There is intense competition between males, and female echidnas from Tasmania show multiple matings. There are significant differences between echidnas from different areas of Australia in the use of nursery burrows and maternal care. One of the most dramatic differences is in duration of lactation: echidnas from Kangaroo Island wean the young at 204–210 days, but in Tasmania weaning occurs at 139–152 days, even though the masses of the young at weaning are comparable.
Evolutionary and phylogenetic significance of platypus microsatellites conserved in mammalian and other vertebrate genomes
Authors: Buschiazzo E. , Gemmell N. J.
Published: October 2009

Building on the recent publication of the first monotreme genome, that of the platypus, and the discovery that many platypus microsatellites are found in the genomes of three mammals (opossum, human, mouse) and two non-mammalian vertebrates (chicken, lizard), we investigated further the evolutionary conservation of microsatellites identified in the monotreme lineage and tested whether the conservation of microsatellites we observe in vertebrates has phylogenetic signal. Most conserved platypus microsatellites (75%) were found in one species, with the platypus sharing many more microsatellites with mammals than with reptiles (83% versus 30%). Within mammals, unexpectedly, many more platypus microsatellites had orthologues in the opossum genome than in that of either human or mouse, which was at odds with the very well supported view that monotremes diverged from a lineage containing both eutherians and marsupials (Theria hypothesis). We investigated the phylogenetic significance of microsatellite conservation through Bayesian and maximum parsimony tree reconstruction using presence/absence data of microsatellite loci conserved in a total of 18 species, including the platypus. Although models of evolution implemented in current phylogenetic reconstruction algorithms are not tailor-made for microsatellite data, we were able to construct vertebrate phylogenies that correspond well to the accepted mammalian phylogeny, with two of our three reconstructions supporting the Theria hypothesis. Our analysis provides ground for new theoretical development in phylogeny-based analyses of conserved microsatellite data.
Hatching time for monotreme immunology
Authors: Wong Emily S. W. , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Miller Robert D. , Belov Katherine
Published: October 2009

The sequencing of the platypus genome has spurred investigations into the characterisation of the monotreme immune response. As the most divergent of extant mammals, the characterisation of the monotreme immune repertoire allows us to trace the evolutionary history of immunity in mammals and provide insights into the immune gene complement of ancestral mammals. The immune system of monotremes has remained largely uncharacterised due to the lack of specific immunological reagents and limited access to animals for experimentation. Early immunological studies focussed on the anatomy and physiology of the lymphoid system in the platypus. More recent molecular studies have focussed on characterisation of individual immunoglobulin, T-cell receptor and MHC genes in both the platypus and short-beaked echidna. Here, we review the published literature on the monotreme immune gene repertoire and provide new data generated from genome analysis on cytokines, Fc receptors and immunoglobulins. We present an overview of key gene families responsible for innate and adaptive immunity including the cathelicidins, defensins, T-cell receptors and the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) Class I and Class II antigens. We comment on the usefulness of these sequences for future studies into immunity, health and disease in monotremes.
Population genetics of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus): a fine-scale look at adjacent river systems
Authors: Kolomyjec Stephen H. , Chong Josephine Y. T. , Blair David , Gongora Jaime , Grant Tom R. , Johnson Christopher N. , Moran Chris
Published: October 2009

Population genetics is a powerful tool to increase the understanding of animals that may otherwise be difficult to study, such as the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus). Focusing on two adjacent river systems in New South Wales, we used 12 polymorphic microsatellite loci to investigate the population dynamics of the platypus. We found that individual river systems acted as discrete population units. Evidence of migration, presumably overland, between systems explains how these units remain connected. This establishes an isolation-by-distance pattern that maintains species continuity across most of the mainland distribution. This improved understanding of population structure will be a valuable contribution to designing accurate management plans for the long-term conservation of this unique Australian animal.
Breeding behaviour of the platypus (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in captivity
Authors: Hawkins Margaret , Battaglia Adam
Published: October 2009

Breeding platypuses (Ornithorhynchus anatinus) in captivity had proved difficult until the last 10 years but with improvements in husbandry and a greater understanding of platypus biology there have been seven successes at two institutions since 1998. This study, using closed circuit video monitoring, took place between 2001 and 2007 at Taronga Zoo and covered three breeding successes with one female in 2002/03, 2004/05 and 2005/06. Results have revealed a consistency of behavioural patterns, which accurately predicted breeding events, mating, burrow construction, subsequent denning period and emergence of young. The female platypus had a receptive period of 4–6 days in the spring of each year, during which her behaviour changed from avoidance to initiating contact with the male. After mating she immediately commenced burrow preparation, ending with a 3–5-day intense period of collecting wet nesting material before retiring to the burrow to lay. The gestation period was estimated at 15–21 days and incubation at less than 12 days. A suckling period of 114–127 days followed, with the frequency of maternal burrow visits and length of stay decreasing as the juveniles grew. Juveniles emerged 133 ± 4 days after retirement. This study provides new and important information about breeding behaviour in this species and will contribute to future breeding success of platypus in captivity.
Salim “Slim” Abdool Karim: Attacking AIDS in South Africa
Authors: Maxmen Amy
Published: October 2009

Slim Abdool Karim joined the anti-apartheid movement as a boy in South Africa and has had the pleasure of watching the regime fall. Now he's set his sights on taking down AIDS.
Distal Expression of knotted1 in Maize Leaves Leads to Reestablishment of Proximal/Distal Patterning and Leaf Dissection
Authors: Ramirez Julio , Bolduc Nathalie , Lisch Damon , Hake Sarah
Published: October 2009

Maize (Zea mays) leaves provide a useful system to study how proximal/distal patterning is established because of the distinct tissues found in the distal blade and the proximal sheath. Several mutants disrupt this pattern, including the dominant knotted1-like homeobox (knox) mutants. knox genes encode homeodomain proteins of the TALE superclass of transcription factors. Class I knox genes are expressed in the meristem and down-regulated as leaves initiate. Gain-of-function phenotypes result from misexpression in leaves. We identified a new dominant allele of maize knotted1, Kn1-DL, which contains a transposon insertion in the promoter in addition to a tandem duplication of the kn1 locus. In situ hybridization shows that kn1 is misexpressed in two different parts of the blade that correlate with the different phenotypes observed. When kn1 is misexpressed along the margins, flaps of sheath-like tissue form along the margins. Expression in the distal tip leads to premature termination of the midrib into a knot and leaf bifurcation. The gain-of-function phenotypes suggest that kn1 establishes proximal/distal patterning when expressed in distal locations and lead to the hypothesis that kn1 normally participates in the establishment of proximal/distal polarity in the incipient leaf.
Rin4 Causes Hybrid Necrosis and Race-Specific Resistance in an Interspecific Lettuce Hybrid
Authors: Jeuken Marieke J.W. , Zhang Ningwen W. , McHale Leah K. , Pelgrom Koen , den Boer Erik , Lindhout Pim , Michelmore Richard W. , Visser Richard G.F. , Niks Rients E.
Published: October 2009

Some inter- and intraspecific crosses may result in reduced viability or sterility in the offspring, often due to genetic incompatibilities resulting from interactions between two or more loci. Hybrid necrosis is a postzygotic genetic incompatibility that is phenotypically manifested as necrotic lesions on the plant. We observed hybrid necrosis in interspecific lettuce (Lactuca sativa and Lactuca  saligna) hybrids that correlated with resistance to downy mildew. Segregation analysis revealed a specific allelic combination at two interacting loci to be responsible. The allelic interaction had two consequences: (1) a quantitative temperature-dependent autoimmunity reaction leading to necrotic lesions, lethality, and quantitative resistance to an otherwise virulent race of Bremia lactucae; and (2) a qualitative temperature-independent race-specific resistance to an avirulent race of B. lactucae. We demonstrated by transient expression and silencing experiments that one of the two interacting genes was Rin4. In Arabidopsis thaliana, RIN4 is known to interact with multiple R gene products, and their interactions result in hypersensitive resistance to Pseudomonas syringae. Site-directed mutation studies on the necrosis-eliciting allele of Rin4 in lettuce showed that three residues were critical for hybrid necrosis.
Weak intra- and intermolecular interactions in a binaphthol imine: an experimental charge-density study on (±)-8′-benzhydrylideneamino-1,1′-binaphthyl-2-ol
Authors: Farrugia Louis J. , Kočovský Pavel , Senn Hans Martin , Vyskočil Štěpán
Published: October 2009

The charge density in (±)-8′-benzhydrylideneamino-1,1′-binaphthyl-2-ol (1) has been studied experimentally using Mo Kα X-ray diffraction at 100 K, and by theory using density-functional thoery (DFT) calculations at the B3LYP/6-311++G** level. The nature of the weak intramolecular peri-C...N, CH...π, H...H and C(π)...C(π) interactions has been examined by topological analysis using the Quantum Theory of Atoms in Molecules (QTAIM) approach. An analysis of the density ρ(r), the Laplacian of the density ∇2ρ(r
b) and other topological properties at the bond-critical points were used to classify these interactions. The study confirms the presence of the intramolecular CH...π interaction in (1), which was previously suspected on geometrical grounds. An analysis of the ellipticity profiles along the bond paths unambiguously shows the π-delocalization between the imine unit and one N-phenyl group. The weak intermolecular interactions in the crystal of (1) were examined experimentally and theoretically through the pairwise interactions of the seven independent dimeric pairs of (1) responsible for the set of unique intermolecular interactions, and also through examination of the Hirshfeld surface d
norm property. The theoretical dimeric-pair calculations used the BLYP-D functional which supplements the exchange-correlational functional with an empirical dispersion term to provide a more accurate determination of the energies for the weak intermolecular interactions.
A conformational polymorphic transition in the high-temperature ∊-form of chlorpropamide on cooling: a new ∊′-form
Authors: Drebushchak Tatiana N. , Chesalov Yury A. , Boldyreva Elena V.
Published: October 2009

Structural changes in the high-temperature ∊-polymorph of chlorpropamide, 4-chloro-N-(propylaminocarbonyl)benzenesulfonamide, C10H13ClN2O3S, on cooling down to 100 K and on reverse heating were followed by single-crystal X-ray diffraction. At temperatures below 200 K the phase transition into a new polymorph (termed the ∊′-form) has been observed for the first time. The polymorphic transition preserves the space group Pna21, is reversible and is accompanied by discontinuous changes in the cell volume and parameters, resulting from changes in molecular conformation. As shown by IR spectroscopy and X-ray powder diffraction, the phase transition in a powder sample is inhomogeneous throughout the bulk, and the two phases co-exist in a wide temperature range. The cell parameters and the molecular conformation in the new polymorph are close to those in the previously known α-polymorph, but the packing of the z-shaped molecular ribbons linked by hydrogen bonds inherits that of the ∊-form and is different from the packing in the α-polymorph. A structural study of the α-polymorph in the same temperature range has revealed no phase transitions.
Technology and applications of ABB RobotStudio
Authors: Connolly Christine
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the capabilities, technological features and applications of a particular industrial robot simulation package.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with an introduction to the general characteristics and distinguishing technological features of RobotStudio. Next, there is a detailed study of how the tool is used by a company developing bespoke automation solutions, particularly in the food industry. Finally, the educational value of the software is addressed.

Findings

RobotStudio is used to improve the efficiency and accuracy of robot programming and reduce downtime. It also has a role in remote maintenance and troubleshooting, risk management and education.

Originality/value

A study of the approach and achievements of an automation integrator makes the technological features of the software easier to understand, in their proper context.
Design and fabrication of a statically stable stair‐climbing robotic wheelchair
Authors: Chen Chun‐Ta , Pham Hoang‐Vuong
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the mechanical design and stability analysis of a new stair‐climbing robotic wheelchair.

Design/methodology/approach

A prototype stair‐climbing robotic wheelchair is constructed comprising a pair of rotational multi‐limbed structures pivotally mounted on opposite sides of a support base. The short arm, long arm, and triangular support structures within each rotational multi‐limbed structure rotate under the actuating effects of epicyclical gear trains.

Findings

The robotic wheelchair ascends and descends stairs in a statically stable manner and has an efficient planar navigation capability.

Research limitations/implications

In its current state of development, the robotic wheelchair is controlled and powered remotely via umbilical cords rather than an onboard processor and power supply.

Practical implications

The robotic wheelchair provides an effective solution for enhancing the mobility of the elderly and disabled.

Originality/value

The rotational multi‐limbed mechanisms are developed to ensure the stability of the sitting base at all stages of the stair navigation maneuver without the need for additional servo‐mechanism. The proposed robotic wheelchair shows the simplification of the associated operation process.
Distance factors and target market selection: the moderating effect of market potential
Authors: Malhotra Shavin , Sivakumar K. , Zhu PengCheng
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The paper is in the domain of marketing strategies of multinational firms. Specifically, it aims to focus on target market selection of multinational firms.

Design/methodology/approach

Using the cultural, administrative, geographic, and economic distance framework proposed by Ghemawat, the authors offer empirical support for the role of different distance factors on firms' foreign market acquisition behavior. In addition, they examine the moderating role of market potential of a target country on the relationship between distance factors and target market selection. The context of the paper is multinational firms from developing countries. The sample consists of cross‐border acquisitions (CBAs) completed by firms from 18 emerging countries between 1990 and 2006. The authors use ordinary least squares and moderated regression analysis to determine the main effect of distance factors and the interaction effect of market potential.

Findings

The authors find that while cultural and geographic distance factors have a significant, negative impact on the number of CBAs, administrative and economic distances have a significant, positive effect. They also find that the market potential of target countries significantly moderates the relation between the distance factors and the number of CBAs.

Research limitations/implications

The results show that the market potential of countries compensates and sometimes even overrides the role of distance. Future studies should expand this research to include industry‐specific factors.

Originality/value

The paper provides an empirical illustration of Ghemawat's distance framework. In addition, the paper highlights several boundary conditions of the impact of distance factors on firms' internationalization processes. Finally, the study enhances knowledge on foreign market entry behavior of firms from developing countries.
Electronic records management in the Malaysian public sector: the existence of policy
Authors: Asma' Mokhtar Umi , Mohammad Yusof Zawiyah
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The existence of policy serves as a guideline to facilitate actions and decisions to be taken. Electronic records management should be driven and guided by clear, comprehensive, understandable policy, to direct the organization and ascertain the effectiveness of functions implemented. The purpose of this paper is to find out whether government agencies in Malaysia do possess such a policy for electronic records management. In addition, the aim is to identify the responsible party for the policy besides investigating the sources referred to in developing the policy.

Design/methodology/research

The survey employs a questionnaire to gather the data from 25 selected government departments in Klang Valley and Putrajaya, Malaysia.

Findings

As anticipated, not all government departments possess electronic records management policy far from complete, clear, and easy to implement. Most surveyed samples are executing policy provided by Malaysian Administrative Modernisation and Management Planning Unit (MAMPU) and National Archive of Malaysia (NAM) with some modifications to suit their needs. On the other hand, the number of organization carrying out electronic records management without any policy in place is alarming.

Practical implications

Electronic records management is carried out in some organisations merely based on their instinct and initiatives, far from complying with international standards of best practice.

Originality value

This paper provides evidence from an original study.
Simulation of soliton‐like waves generated by topography with conservative fully discrete shallow‐water arbitrary‐order schemes
Authors: Skiba Yuri N. , Filatov Denis M.
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest a new approach to the numerical simulation of shallow‐water flows both in plane domains and on the sphere.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach involves the technique of splitting of the model operator by geometric coordinates and by physical processes. Specially chosen temporal and spatial approximations result in one‐dimensional finite difference schemes that conserve the mass and the total energy. Therefore, the mass and the total energy of the whole two‐dimensional split scheme are kept constant too.

Findings

Explicit expressions for the schemes of arbitrary approximation orders in space are given. The schemes are shown to be mass‐ and energy‐conserving, and hence absolutely stable because the square root of the total energy is the norm of the solution. The schemes of the first four approximation orders are then tested by simulating nonlinear solitary waves generated by a model topography. In the analysis, the primary attention is given to the study of the time‐space structure of the numerical solutions.

Originality/value

The approach can be used for the numerical simulation of shallow‐water flows in domains of both Cartesian and spherical geometries, providing the solution adequate from the physical and mathematical standpoints in the sense of keeping its mass and total energy constant even when fully discrete shallow‐water models are applied.
Impulsive Falkner‐Skan flow with constant wall heat flux: revisited
Authors: Harris Simon D. , Ingham Derek B. , Pop Ioan
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a numerical and an analytical study of the fluid flow and heat transfer in the unsteady, laminar boundary layer resulting from the forced convection flow along a semi‐infinite wedge, where the transients are initiated at time t¯ = 0 when the wedge is impulsively started from rest with a uniform velocity and a constant heat flux at the walls of the wedge is suddenly imposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The velocity of the main free stream is written in non‐dimensional form for t > 0 as ue(x) = xm, where x is the non‐dimensional distance along the surface from the leading edge (apex) of the wedge and the constant m is related to the included angle of the wedge πβ by m = β / (2 − β) (0 ≤ m ≤ 1 for physical applications). The wedge and the fluid are assumed to be initially (t¯ = 0) at the same uniform temperature T∞, so that there is zero heat flux at the surface. A time‐dependent thermal boundary layer is then produced at t¯ = 0 as the zero heat flux at the surface is suddenly changed, and a constant heat flux qw is imposed as the wedge is set into motion. Analytical solutions for the simultaneous development of the momentum and thermal boundary layers are obtained for both small (initial unsteady flow) and large (steady‐state flow) times for several wedge angles (several values of m) and several values of the Prandtl number Pr. These two asymptotic solutions are matched using two specialised numerical procedures.

Findings

The numerical results obtained for the transient fluid velocity and temperature fields concentrate mainly on the case when the Prandtl number Pr = 1 and m = 1 / 5, namely a wedge angle of 60○. Required alterations to these parameters are then discussed with reference to variations in Pr and m separately. Further, an engineering empirical expression is presented for the skin friction Cf (τ) Rex1/2 that is valid for all times. The comparison between the empirical formula and the full numerical solution demonstrates that this matching solution can be used with confidence over the whole range of values of the non‐dimensional time τ for each of the values of m presented, and may therefore be used with confidence in engineering applications.

Originality/value

The results of the present work, which have been obtained through many computations, are very important for the advancement of knowledge on this classical problem of fluid mechanics and heat transfer. It is believed that such very detailed solutions have not previously been presented.
Adolescents' perceptions of healthy eating and communication about healthy eating
Authors: Chan Kara , Prendergast Gerard , Grønhøj Alice , Bech‐Larsen Tino
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore Chinese adolescents' perceptions of healthy eating, their perceptions of various socializing agents shaping their eating habits, and their opinions about various regulatory measures which might be imposed to encourage healthy eating.

Design/methodology/approach

Four focus group interview sessions were conducted with 22 eighth and ninth grade adolescents (aged 13 to 15) in Hong Kong.

Findings

The participants perceived a balanced diet and regular meal times as the most important attributes of healthy eating. Participants were most likely to eat unhealthy food at parties, during festivals, and when socializing. They reported that mothers and teachers often advise them to eat healthy foods. They felt that banning the sale of soft drinks in schools and at sports centers and/or increasing the price of soft drinks might discourage their consumption, but felt that banning soft drink advertisements and/or making free drinking water more available would be ineffective.

Research limitations/implications

The interviewees were mostly from low to middle income families. They may not be representative of all adolescents in Hong Kong or elsewhere, thus limiting the generalisabilty of the findings.

Originality/value

The study serves as a guideline for social services marketing professionals targeting adolescents. Social services marketers might consider influencing adolescents' eating habits through the parents and school teachers. Restricting selling of soft drinks at schools and sports centers and increasing the price of soft drinks should be considered, as these were considered relatively more effective than other measures. Seven testable hypotheses are proposed to guide further research.
Virtual collaboration in knowledge work: from vision to reality
Authors: Pyöriä Pasi
Published: October 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to serve as a reminder that all work arrangements, including the present case of distributed work, have their costs and benefits.

Design/methodology/approach

In addition to a literature review, the paper presents empirical evidence from two case organizations in the field of technology industries and knowledge‐intensive business services.

Findings

In contrast to common assertions in the theoretical literature, distributed work is not always an outcome of technological advancement or a proactive choice blessed by management, but often a necessity dictated by the competition or customers. In the case companies here, a distributed organizational structure was recognized as a necessary compromise, although the associated costs gave cause for some concern. Rather than virtual cooperation, the knowledge workers interviewed valued opportunities for face‐to‐face interaction and informal contact and networking. Nonetheless the benefits of distributed work were thought to outweigh its potential costs.

Originality/value

Regionally distributed work involves many similar problems as traditional telework from home. To avoid potential risks, partial work distribution is advisable to most organizations.
Islamic work ethic among Arab college students in Israel
Authors: Khalil Mahmood , Abu‐Saad Ismael
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate the Islamic work ethic (IWE) and individualism among Arab college students in Israel, who represent an ethnic and religious minority in a western‐oriented state.

Design/methodology/approach

The participants included 837 male and female Arab college students from an academic and a technical college in northern Israel. Most participants (64 percent) were Academic college students. Two measures were used: the IWE and individualism scales developed by Ali. Correlation analysis and two‐way multivariate analysis were used to analyze the data.

Findings

There was a strong and highly significant correlation between the IWE and individualism scales. Academic college students scored significantly higher than technical college students on both scales. There were significant interactions between gender and marital status, and college type and year of studies, on the scales.

Practical implications

Within the multi‐cultural context of Arab college students in Israel, the IWE and individualism scales emerged as reliable, practical measures for understanding the work‐related values of Arab college students in Israel.

Originality/value

This study is the first in the published literature to use the IWE and individualism scales among Arab students who were not raised in a homogeneous Islamic cultural context. Although the Arab minority in Israel is exposed to Israeli and Western, as well as Islamic, cultural and organizational influences, IWE scale proved to be highly reliable for this population. The IWE and individualism scales, used together, were uniquely effective for capturing the many nuances of work‐related values in this complex, multi‐cultural context.
Does meaning‐making help during organizational change?
Authors: van den Heuvel Machteld , Demerouti Evangelia , Schreurs Bert H.J. , Bakker Arnold B. , Schaufeli Wilmar B.
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is first, to test the validity of a new scale measuring the construct of meaning‐making, defined as the ability to integrate challenging or ambiguous situations into a framework of personal meaning using conscious, value‐based reflection. Second, to explore whether meaning‐making is distinct from other personal resources (self‐efficacy, optimism, mastery, meaning in life), and coping (positive reinterpretation, acceptance). Third, to explore whether meaning‐making facilitates work engagement, willingness to change, and performance during organizational change.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross‐sectional survey‐data were collected from 238 employees in a variety of both public and private organizations.

Findings

Confirmatory factor analyses showed that meaning‐making can be distinguished from other personal resources, coping and meaning in life. Regression analyses showed that meaning‐making is positively related to in‐role performance and willingness to change, but not to work engagement, thereby partly supporting the hypotheses.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on meaning‐making that has not yet been studied empirically in organizational change settings. It shows that the new construct of psychological meaning‐making is related to valuable employee outcomes including in‐role performance and willingness to change. Meaning‐making explains variance over and above other personal resources such as self‐efficacy, optimism, mastery, coping and meaning in life.
What do higher education management and administration expect of library benchmarking?
Authors: Wimmer Ulla
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the results of a workshop held to discover the performance measurement requirements deemed to be necessary by the management of higher education establishments and state authorities in Germany.

Design/methodology/approach

A workshop is held with representatives of university directorates and their libraries, members of the ministries for research and higher education at state level, experts on performance measurement for libraries, and representatives of the German Library association and BIX management.

Findings

The workshop provides answers regarding which issues a benchmarking system should cover, and what functional requirements the system should meet.

Practical implications

An agreed set of new performance measures is defined and agreed to be put into practice in the near future.

Originality/value

The workshop allows collaboration between the libraries who helped develop the BIX Library Index, and the HE authorities whose needs were fundamentally different, to reach common ground and understanding for data sets and metrics required for the future.
“Breaking taboos”
Authors: Johanson Ulf , Koga Chitoshi , Almqvist Roland , Skoog Matti
Published: October 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight how, and why, some small and medium‐sized high‐tech Japanese firms apply and assess the “intellectual asset‐based management” (IAbM) guidelines issued by the Japanese Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry in October 2005.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an interpretive case study linking semi‐structured interview and document data from four Japanese firms that have issued IAbM reports containing ideas about the processes of creating knowledge and routines in their organizations.

Findings

The findings indicate that the firms studied essentially follow the guidelines, although pinpointing how this affects their internal management is difficult. The IAbM report is primarily used for external communication, with the capital market and with existing and potential customers.

Practical implications

The practical implications found in this paper relate mainly to the four challenges found already in research by Johanson, i.e. uniqueness versus comparability, confidentiality versus accountability, market communication and management control.

Originality/value

The unique features of this paper are found mainly in the empirical parts, where the guidelines and the sample of small and medium‐sized Japanese firms form an interesting and seldom used empirical point of departure. The findings concerning actual use and interpretation of a guideline could also, of course, be regarded as a distinctive aspect of this paper.
Using intellectual capital management for facilitating organizational change
Authors: Lönnqvist Antti , Kianto Aino , Sillanpää Virpi
Published: October 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the role of intellectual capital (IC) management in an organizational change process. The purpose is to obtain new empirical findings and an enhanced understanding of the role of IC in an organizational change process is obtained.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the existing literature on change management and IC management is reviewed. Then, empirical research is carried out in terms of an action research project on IC development processes in three case companies. These processes and their outcomes are evaluated using interviews.

Findings

An IC model can be a useful tool for change management as it helps to ensure the alignment of the change content with the strategic goals of the organization.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on applying the Danish IC management model in Finnish companies. Different results might have been obtained if another IC management model had been used or the companies representing other countries and cultures had been selected.

Practical implications

The paper demonstrates that IC tools can be useful for promoting organizational change processes. However, more important than the specific conceptual model or measurement method chosen seems to be the process of organizational representatives connecting their contextual and idiosyncratic understandings to the model.

Originality/value

This paper makes a contribution to the existing knowledge by reporting and critically evaluating the implementation of dynamic IC management practices. This is a contribution to the existing conceptually oriented literature on the topic. In addition, the analysis of empirical IC management projects applied in a change context has novelty value.