bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A portable optical emission spectroscopy-cavity ringdown spectroscopy dual-mode plasma spectrometer for measurements of environmentally important trace heavy metals: Initial test with elemental Hg
Authors: Sahay Peeyush , Scherrer Susan T. , Wang Chuji
Published: September 2012

A portable optical emission spectroscopy-cavity ringdown spectroscopy (OES-CRDS) dual-mode plasma spectrometer is described. A compact, low-power, atmospheric argon microwave plasma torch (MPT) is utilized as the emission source when the spectrometer is operating in the OES mode. The same MPT serves as the atomization source for ringdown measurements in the CRDS mode. Initial demonstration of the instrument is carried out by observing OES of multiple elements including mercury (Hg) in the OES mode and by measuring absolute concentrations of Hg in the metastable state 6s6p 3P0 in the CRDS mode, in which a palm-size diode laser operating at a single wavelength 405 nm is incorporated in the spectrometer as the light source. In the OES mode, the detection limit for Hg is determined to be 44 parts per 109 (ppb). A strong radiation trapping effect on emission measurements of Hg at 254 nm is observed when the Hg solution concentration is higher than 50 parts per 106 (ppm). The radiation trapping effect suggests that two different transition lines of Hg at 253.65 nm and 365.01 nm be selected for emission measurements in lower (<50 ppm) and higher concentration ranges (>50 ppm), respectively. In the CRDS mode, the detection limit of Hg in the metastable state 6s6p 3P0 is achieved to be 2.24 parts per 1012 (ppt) when the plasma is operating at 150 W with sample gas flow rate of 480 mL min−1; the detection limit corresponds to 50 ppm in Hg sample solution. Advantage of this novel spectrometer has two-fold, it has a large measurement dynamic range, from a few ppt to hundreds ppm and the CRDS mode can serve as calibration for the OES mode as well as high sensitivity measurements. Measurements of seven other elements, As, Cd, Mn, Ni, P, Pb, and Sr, using the OES mode are also carried out with detection limits of 1100, 33, 30, 144, 576, 94, and 2 ppb, respectively. Matrix effect in the presence of other elements on Hg measurements has been found to increase the detection limit to 131 ppb. These elements in lower concentrations can also be measured in the CRDS mode when a compact laser source is available to be integrated into the spectrometer in the future. This exploratory study demonstrates a new instrument platform using an OES-CRDS dual-mode technique for potential field applications.
Synchronized operation by field programmable gate array based signal controller for the Thomson scattering diagnostic system in KSTAR
Authors: Lee W. R. , Kim H. S. , Park M. K. , Lee J. H. , Kim K. H.
Published: September 2012

The Thomson scattering diagnostic system is successfully installed in the Korea Superconducting Tokamak Advanced Research (KSTAR) facility. We got the electron temperature and electron density data for the first time in 2011, 4th campaign using a field programmable gate array (FPGA) based signal control board. It operates as a signal generator, a detector, a controller, and a time measuring device. This board produces two configurable trigger pulses to operate Nd:YAG laser system and receives a laser beam detection signal from a photodiode detector. It allows a trigger pulse to be delivered to a time delay module to make a scattered signal measurement, measuring an asynchronous time value between the KSTAR timing board and the laser system injection signal. All functions are controlled by the embedded processor running on operating system within a single FPGA. It provides Ethernet communication interface and is configured with standard middleware to integrate with KSTAR. This controller has operated for two experimental campaigns including commissioning and performed the reconfiguration of logic designs to accommodate varying experimental situation without hardware rebuilding.
Analysis of field-emission from a diamond-metal-vacuum triple junction
Authors: Sun S. , Ang L. K.
Published: September 2012

A quantitative electron tunneling model is constructed to calculate the electron emission from a diamond-metal-vacuum triple junction, including the effects of the field enhancement at the interface of the triple junction, the reduction on the barrier height and the negative electron affinity on the diamond surface. The difference between the emission processes with and without light exposure is also investigated.
Temporally resolved characterization of shock-heated foam target with Al absorption spectroscopy for fast electron transport study
Authors: Yabuuchi T. , Sawada H. , Regan S. P. , Anderson K. , Wei M. S. , Betti R. , Hund J. , Key M. H. , Mackinnon A. J. , McLean H. S. , Paguio R. R. , Patel P. K. , Saito K. M. , Stephens R. B. , Wilks S. C. , Beg F. N.
Published: September 2012

The CH foam plasma produced by a laser-driven shock wave has been characterized by a temporally resolved Al 1s-2p absorption spectroscopy technique. A 200 mg/cm3 foam target with Al dopant was developed for this experiment, which used an OMEGA EP [D. D. Meyerhofer et al., J. Phys.: Conf. Ser. 244, 032010 (2010)] long pulse beam with an energy of 1.2 kJ and 3.5 ns pulselength. The plasma temperatures were inferred with the accuracy of 5 eV from the fits to the measurements using an atomic physics code. The results show that the inferred temperature is sustained at 40–45 eV between 6 and 7 ns and decreases to 25 eV at 8 ns. 2-D radiation hydrodynamic simulations show a good agreement with the measurements. Application of the shock-heated foam plasma platform toward fast electron transport experiments is discussed.
Intense upconversion luminescence and origin study in Tm3+/Yb3+ codoped calcium scandate
Authors: Li Jing , Zhang Jiahua , Hao Zhendong , Zhang Xia , Zhao Jihong , Luo Yongshi
Published: September 2012

Doping concentration optimized CaSc2O4:0.004Tm3+/0.1Yb3+ shows stronger upconversion luminescence (UCL) than doping concentration also optimized typical oxide upconverting phosphor Y2O3:0.004Tm3+/0.1Yb3+ upon 980 nm laser diode pump. The two-step up converted 3H4 → 3H6 near infrared emission peaked around 800 nm and the three-step up converted 1G4 → 3H6 blue emission around 480 nm of Tm3+ is enhanced by a factor of 3.5 and 2.2, respectively. On analyzing the 2F5/2 → 2F7/2 emission intensities and decay curves of Yb3+ in the two hosts, we reveal that Yb3+ in CaSc2O4 exhibits both a larger absorption cross section at 980 nm and Yb3+ → Tm3+ first step energy transfer coefficient (9.29 × 10−17 cm3 s−1) than that (2.87 × 10−17 cm3 s−1) in Y2O3, indicating that CaSc2O4 is an excellent host for achieving very intense UCL in Tm3+/Yb3+ codoped oxide upconverting materials.
Electric field-induced magnetization reversal in a perpendicular-anisotropy CoFeB-MgO magnetic tunnel junction
Authors: Kanai S. , Yamanouchi M. , Ikeda S. , Nakatani Y. , Matsukura F. , Ohno H.
Published: September 2012

The electric field-induced ∼180° magnetization reversal is realized for a sputtered CoFeB/MgO-based magnetic tunnel junction with perpendicular magnetic easy axis in a static external magnetic field. Application of bias voltage with nanoseconds duration results in a temporal change of magnetic easy axis in the free layer CoFeB to in-plane, which induces precessional motion of magnetization in the free layer. The magnetization reversal takes place when the bias voltage pulse duration is adjusted to a half period of the precession. We show that the back and forth magnetization reversal can be observed by using successive application of half-period voltage pulses.
Soil clay content, rainfall, and toposequence positions determining spatial variation in field water availability as estimated by a water balance model for rainfed lowland rice
Authors: Inthavong T. , Tsubo M. , Fukai S.
Published: September 2012

Drought is a major limiting factor for the production of rainfed rice in the Mekong Region. Thus, estimation of the length of growing period (LGP) based on estimation of the development of water deficit is essential for sound planning of agricultural development. A recently developed soil-water balance model was used to quantify the availability of water for rice crops and yield reduction due to water deficit. Field water availability is known to be largely affected by soil type and rainfall pattern, and their separate effects were investigated in this study of a spatial analysis of LGP, using inputs for rainfed lowland rice in Savannakhet province in central Laos. The analysis showed that the start of growing period (SGP) and end of growing period (EGP) were affected largely by geographical variations in rainfall and soil clay content, respectively. Also, the areas having relatively short LGP were generally associated with large yield reduction because of low water availability associated with coarse-textured soils. At local scale, field water availability varied from upper to lower positions of a sloping land (toposequence) in the rainfed lowland ecosystem of the Mekong region, causing variation in yield within the toposequence. Using the level of field water determined around flowering time at different toposequence positions in 45 farms, estimated yield reduction was compared in seven main rice-growing districts of the province. Variability of yield loss, associated with variation in water availability, was larger across the toposequence positions than across districts, showing the importance of local variability in determining yield in rainfed lowland rice. The present approach of a combination of simulation model and GIS is adopted for characterisation of the water environment for rainfed lowland rice in other parts of Laos, as well as in neighbouring Thailand and Cambodia.
Using genetic programming to transform from Australian to USDA/FAO soil particle-size classification system
Authors: Padarian José , Minasny Budiman , McBratney Alex
Published: September 2012

The difference between the International (adopted by Australia) and the USDA/FAO particle-size classification systems is the limit between silt and sand fractions (20 μm for the International and 50 µm for the USDA/FAO). In order to work with pedotransfer functions generated under the USDA/FAO system with Australian soil survey data, a conversion should be attempted. The aim of this work is to improve prior models using larger datasets and a genetic programming technique, in the form of a symbolic regression. The 2–50 µm fraction was predicted using a USDA dataset which included both particle-size classification systems. The presented model reduced the root mean square error (%) by 14.96 and 23.62% (IGBP-DIS dataset and Australian dataset, respectively), compared with the previous model.
Zfp281 mediates Nanog autorepression through recruitment of the NuRD complex and inhibits somatic cell reprogramming
Authors: Fidalgo Miguel , Faiola Francesco , Pereira Carlos-Filipe , Ding Junjun , Saunders Arven , Gingold Julian , Schaniel Christoph , Lemischka Ihor R. , Silva José C. R. , Wang Jianlong
Published: September 2012

The homeodomain transcription factor Nanog plays an important role in embryonic stem cell (ESC) self-renewal and is essential for acquiring ground-state pluripotency during reprogramming. Understanding how Nanog is transcriptionally regulated is important for further dissecting mechanisms of ESC pluripotency and somatic cell reprogramming. Here, we report that Nanog is subjected to a negative autoregulatory mechanism, i.e., autorepression, in ESCs, and that such autorepression requires the coordinated action of the Nanog partner and transcriptional repressor Zfp281. Mechanistically, Zfp281 recruits the NuRD repressor complex onto the
Nanog
locus and maintains its integrity to mediate Nanog autorepression and, functionally, Zfp281-mediated Nanog autorepression presents a roadblock to efficient somatic cell reprogramming. Our results identify a unique transcriptional regulatory mode of Nanog gene expression and shed light into the mechanistic understanding of Nanog function in pluripotency and reprogramming.
Synthesis of site-specific antibody-drug conjugates using unnatural amino acids
Authors: Axup Jun Y. , Bajjuri Krishna M. , Ritland Melissa , Hutchins Benjamin M. , Kim Chan Hyuk , Kazane Stephanie A. , Halder Rajkumar , Forsyth Jane S. , Santidrian Antonio F. , Stafin Karin , Lu Yingchun , Tran Hon , Seller Aaron J. , Biroc Sandra L. , Szydlik Aga , Pinkstaff Jason K. , Tian Feng , Sinha Subhash C. , Felding-Habermann Brunhilde , Smider Vaughn V. , Schultz Peter G.
Published: September 2012

Antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) allow selective targeting of cytotoxic drugs to cancer cells presenting tumor-associated surface markers, thereby minimizing systemic toxicity. Traditionally, the drug is conjugated nonselectively to cysteine or lysine residues in the antibody. However, these strategies often lead to heterogeneous products, which make optimization of the biological, physical, and pharmacological properties of an ADC challenging. Here we demonstrate the use of genetically encoded unnatural amino acids with orthogonal chemical reactivity to synthesize homogeneous ADCs with precise control of conjugation site and stoichiometry.
p
-Acetylphenylalanine was site-specifically incorporated into an anti-Her2 antibody Fab fragment and full-length IgG in
Escherichia coli
and mammalian cells, respectively. The mutant protein was selectively and efficiently conjugated to an auristatin derivative through a stable oxime linkage. The resulting conjugates demonstrated excellent pharmacokinetics, potent in vitro cytotoxic activity against Her2
+
cancer cells, and complete tumor regression in rodent xenograft treatment models. The synthesis and characterization of homogeneous ADCs with medicinal chemistry-like control over macromolecular structure should facilitate the optimization of ADCs for a host of therapeutic uses.
Assessment of Readiness to Change and Relationship to AUDIT Score in a Trauma Population Utilizing Computerized Alcohol Screening and Brief Intervention
Authors: Lotfipour Shahram , Cisneros Victor , Chakravarthy Bharath , Barrios Cristobal , Anderson Craig L. , Fox John Christian , Roumani Samer , Hoonpongsimanont Wirachin , Vaca Federico E.
Published: September 2012

Trauma patient readiness-to-change score and its relationship to the Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) score were assessed in addition to the feasibility of computerized alcohol screening and brief intervention (CASI). A bilingual computerized tablet for trauma patients was utilized and the data were analyzed using Stata. Twenty-five percent of 1145 trauma patients drank more than recommended and 4% were dependent. As many Spanish-speaking as English-speaking males did not drink, but a higher percentage of Spanish-speaking males drank more than recommended and were dependent. Half of patients who drank more than recommended rated themselves 8 or higher on a 10-point readiness-to-change scale. CASI also provided personalized feedback. A high percentage of trauma patients (92%) found CASI easy and a comfort in use (87%). Bilingual computerized technology for trauma patients is feasible, acceptable, and an innovative approach to alcohol screening, brief intervention, and referral to treatment in a tertiary care university.
MIGRATION, RETURN, AND HAPPINESS IN ROMANIA
Authors: Bartram David
Published: September 2012

Research on happiness finds that rising incomes do not generally lead to increases in happiness. This finding suggests that economic migration – i.e., migration motivated by the prospect of increased income – might not bring greater happiness: when economic migrants believe that migration will improve their lives, that belief might be misguided at least insofar as ‘improvement’ is conceived in terms related to happiness. Perhaps economic migration under certain conditions even results in lower happiness, if it involves sacrifices in other respects that are more consequential for happiness. This paper explores these propositions via comparison of Romanian migrants to non-migrants (using data from the European Social Survey) and finds that returned migrants report lower happiness than non-migrants (controlling for other variables), while migrants who have not returned are not different in happiness from stayers. The cross-sectional analysis cannot directly answer questions about the consequences of migration and return – there are no data on the migrants' happiness prior to migration. But the analysis sharpens the questions that might be asked in future research and considers how various scenarios would be consistent with the findings produced here.
Double-resonant fast particle-wave interaction
Authors: Schneller M. , Lauber Ph. , Brüdgam M. , Pinches S. D. , Günter S.
Published: September 2012

In future fusion devices fast particles must be well confined in order to transfer their energy to the background plasma. Magnetohydrodynamic instabilities like toroidal Alfvén eigenmodes or core-localized modes such as beta-induced Alfvén eigenmodes and reversed shear Alfvén eigenmodes, both driven by fast particles, can lead to significant losses. This is observed in many ASDEX Upgrade discharges. This study applies the drift-kinetic HAGIS code with the aim of understanding the underlying resonance mechanisms, especially in the presence of multiple modes with different frequencies. Of particular interest is the resonant interaction of particles simultaneously with two different modes, referred to as ‘double-resonance’. Various mode overlapping scenarios with different q profiles are considered. It is found that, depending on the radial mode distance, double-resonance is able to enhance growth rates as well as mode amplitudes significantly. Surprisingly, no radial mode overlap is necessary for this effect. Quite the contrary is found: small radial mode distances can lead to strong nonlinear mode stabilization of a linearly dominant mode.
The GABAergic anterior paired lateral neurons facilitate olfactory reversal learning in Drosophila
Authors: Wu Yanying , Ren Qingzhong , Li Hao , Guo Aike
Published: September 2012

Reversal learning has been widely used to probe the implementation of cognitive flexibility in the brain. Previous studies in monkeys identified an essential role of the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC) in reversal learning. However, the underlying circuits and molecular mechanisms are poorly understood. Here, we use the T-maze to investigate the neural mechanism of olfactory reversal learning in Drosophila. By adding a reversal training cycle to the classical learning protocol, we show that wild-type flies are able to reverse their choice according to the alteration of conditioned stimulus (CS)-unconditioned stimulus (US) contingency. The reversal protocol induced a specific suppression of the initial memory, an effect distinct from memory decay or extinction. GABA down-regulation in the anterior paired lateral (APL) neurons, which innervate the mushroom bodies (MBs), eliminates this suppression effect and impairs normal reversal. These findings reveal that inhibitory regulation from the GABAergic APL neurons facilitates olfactory reversal learning by suppressing initial memory in Drosophila.
Mobility among Latin American migrants
Authors: Lima Jacob , Martins Angelo
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to reflect on the impact of globalisation and productive restructuring in contemporary migration flows in Latin America. It analyses two different movements to/from Latin America: Bolivians in São Paulo and Brazilians in London, seeking to highlight the precarious work conditions of migrants from the region.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses two interrelated research projects. One focuses on Bolivian workers in São Paulo. It used reference documents, and files from the local press and academic articles to map work dynamics of Bolivian migrants working in sweatshops. The other was conducted in London, where in‐depth interviews and participant observations were conducted with Brazilians working in low‐skilled jobs, to explore motives behind migration and settlement.

Findings

There is increasing mobility between different countries that receive immigrants with flexible proposals about constructing “new life projects”. These migrants seek to escape unfavourable living and working conditions, yet an overall perspective of flexible capitalism in its forms of production, distribution and consumption is observable. Both contexts feature precarious employment relationships, with informality, illegality and ethnic social networks being the main elements of attraction and support in host countries. Differences are located in the perspectives of return and settlement, given the different economic situations in England, Brazil and Bolivia.

Research limitations/implications

Sample size does not allow making representative statements or generalisations about Brazilians in London. In addition, it was not possible to get primary data from Bolivians in São Paulo because the clandestine nature of the sweatshops makes it difficult to gain access, and to obtain reliable data.

Originality/value

The paper offers an important departure point to advance discussions about productive restructuring, informality, and Latin American mobilities by addressing the intersections between employment relations, migration and geographical mobility within/from Latin America.
Improving the crease retention of trousers during laundering
Authors: Pierlot Anthony P. , Fincher Keith W. , Lee King A.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The appearance retention of trouser creases, subject to tumble drying, for some trousers can be improved by the simple process of restraining the inner leg seam to the aligned outer seam of the trouser leg at a single point just below the crotch. The purpose of this paper is to assess the effectiveness of this approach on crease retention during laundering for a variety of commercially available trousers of different fibre compositions and blends.

Design/methodology/approach

Trousers made from various fibres and blends were purchased at retail and were washed and tumble dried as received, or after treatment (e.g. to provide shrink resistance for wool trousers or to improve the level of permanent set in the crease), with one leg restrained while the other was free and the impact on crease retention assessed.

Findings

The findings indicate that the use of a restraint device provides the largest improvement to the crease appearance for trousers constructed from wool or wool blends with polyester. Some level of permanent set is necessary for the restraint to function and an improvement in crease rating of up to three points (AATCC 1‐5 scale) is possible after five laundry cycles.

Practical implications

An effective prototype trouser restraint device, suitable for use in a domestic environment was constructed based on two rare earth magnets and should allow the consumer to improve the appearance retention of trousers, particularly for those containing appreciable amounts of wool.

Originality/value

The method allows the consumer to improve the crease retention of wool containing trousers, beyond what is possible through industrial processes, by using a laundry aid (restraint).
R&D offshoring in multinational enterprises
Authors: Rao P.M. , Chandra Ramdas , Shin Jongtae
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine recent trends in R&D offshoring by US multinational enterprises (MNEs) against a well‐established conceptual framework derived from transaction cost and internalization theories, as well as challenges to it.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper develops and tests a parsimonious model of cross‐country variation in R&D performed by affiliates of MNEs based on a 31‐country, 15‐year dataset of US non‐bank majority‐owned foreign affiliates (MOFAs).

Findings

Consistent with the implications of transaction cost and internalization frameworks, the findings show that the location of R&D offshoring is significantly determined by ownership of physical assets by MNEs in the host country and host country technological capability.

Practical implications

R&D offshoring can enhance the quality and the quantity of knowledge flows between home country and host country R&D centers. The resulting positive knowledge spill‐over effects can increase the welfare and productivity of an MNE and its home country in the long run.

Originality/value

The paper provides a comprehensive explanation for MNEs' R&D offshoring based on transaction costs, internalization framework and technological factors.
Towards the effective ASEAN mutual legal assistance in combating money laundering
Authors: Le Nguyen Chat
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the issue of mutual legal assistance (MLA) within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in combating money laundering.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first examines the scenario of money laundering (ML) in Southeast Asia and the ASEAN's response. It then discusses the legal framework and practice of regional MLA in anti‐money laundering (AML). Statistic and hypothetical cases will be provided to illustrate the arguments.

Findings

Despite the strongly political commitment, ASEAN States have failed in response to ML effectively. MLA that is one of the most important forms of regional cooperation in combating ML has confronted a range of barriers. Insufficient capacity of law enforcement across the region and disparities among national criminal laws are the utmost barriers. Among the ASEAN State authorised agencies, police is a crucial one in processing MLA for AML.

Originality/value

This paper would be beneficial for the regional policy makers and law enforcement agencies in order to make the regional cooperation in combating ML more effective.
A new approach to the criminalization of terrorist financing and its compatibility with Sharia law
Authors: Tofangsaz Hamed
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to re‐discover the nature of the crime of terrorist financing in order to challenge the assumption which requires the criminalization of terrorist financing as a predicate crime to money laundering.

Design/methodology/approach

Illustrating the nature of the crime of terrorist financing and money laundering, the necessity of the criminalization of terrorist financing as an inchoate crime in accordance with the principles of Islamic criminal law will be examined.

Findings

While the criminalization of money laundering in Islam is based on the illegality of crimes already happened, impermissibility of terrorist financing needs to be forward‐looking, concentrating on the destination of the crime of terrorist financing. This requires criminalization of terrorist financing as an inchoate offence which is compatible with the principles of Islamic criminal law.

Originality/value

The paper provides new insight into the criminalization of terrorist financing.
The capacity of health services research to support integrated care in England
Authors: Meads Geoffrey , White Donna , Westmore Matthew
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This report aims to examine the capacity for research to support integrated care developments. The focus is on health service research agencies in English universities. It is designed to promote an understanding of alternative approaches as national research programmes offer new opportunities for larger and more rigorous studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach draws on three analyses of different data from relevant programmes of the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) over a 30 month period. The data are derived from commissioning briefs, monitoring reports and annual reviews. Relevant international comparisons indicate possible responses to deficits.

Findings

The review points to a process of normalisation, through which integrated care has become an important standard dimension of health services research in England. While the commissioning of studies related to integrated care is shown to demonstrate a sustained and enhanced profile, the capacity of higher education providers appears to be changing. The growing emphasis on health services research corresponds with increased research leadership from clinical and public health academics, which raises questions regarding future multi‐disciplinary and social sciences contributions and projects on lateral forms of integrated care.

Research limitations/implications

The findings are only derived from a single source from the NIHR portfolio, and a period in which there were significant and structural changes in the NHS and administration of relevant NIHR programmes.

Originality/value

The review is the first of its kind in employing aggregate NIHR programme data. It offers an original typology of higher education research agencies and novel insights into comparable developments elsewhere.
Utilising multi‐aspectual understanding as a framework for ERP success evaluation
Authors: Jahanyan Saeed , Azar Adel , Danaee Fard Hasan
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to apply a philosophical framework in order to come to a life‐world oriented understanding of an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system for evaluating system success. To do so, according to Dooyeweerd's theory of aspects, a multi‐aspectual understanding is derived based on end‐user's everyday experience of the system.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a qualitative case study, data are gathered based on 17 semi‐structured interviews. The company within which this study was conducted is an Iranian manufacturer which fully implemented a SAP R/3 system about four years ago. In order to analyze text data, an interpretive text analysis is conducted.

Findings

According to the results, among all 15 aspects and from end users’ point of view, the qualifying aspects are analytical, pistic, economic and formative, which means that the other aspects are ignored or repressed throughout the organization. All these qualifying aspects include both positive and negative norms but for three of them (analytical, economic and formative) the positive norms are dominant. Regarding the pistic aspect, even though it includes strong positive norms, they are not dominant compared to negative norms. Synthesizing results show that according to “Meeting objectives”, “User satisfaction” and “Emancipation” as general norms, ERP success, in order to be completely realized, requires each general norm to be considered as a multi‐aspectual criterion.

Practical implications

First, the management team has to concentrate not only on economic and formative objectives but also on the other aspectual objectives which are more qualitative and intangible. Each aspectual objective requires its own specific methods and data to be measured, therefore the management team must provide supportive conditions so that multiple measurement systems are allowed to be implemented. Second, through new long‐term plans, budgets and training courses, already ignored aspects such as psychic, lingual, social, aesthetic, juridical and ethical must be more focused in order to bring to them more visibility and recognition throughout the organization. Third, In order to increase the positive norms for all aspects, holding periodical workshops and training courses is helpful. In addition, implementing reward systems can be a complementary action in order to improve positive norms.

Originality/value

The paper shows that evaluating ERP success according to end users’ point of view brings more visibility to some issues which are usually ignored or missed by quantitative or uni‐aspectual approaches. Furthermore, utilizing Dooyeweerd's framework as a life‐oriented philosophy for evaluating ERP success is a novel work, which may lead to a kind of development and enrichment in the ERP success literature.
Working towards total quality management in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alhwairini Abdulrahman , Foley Andrea
Published: September 2012

Purpose

There is an old adage that has some resonance with “the TQM journey”: a traveller asked for directions to their destination and got the reply, “Well, if I were you I would not start from here”. The purpose of this paper is to examine the preparedness of a case study organisation in relation to the selective critical success factors (leadership approach and continuous improvement) that are widely acknowledged as being crucial for the successful implementation of total quality management (TQM) regardless of the type of organisation. The case study is a not‐for‐profit organisation in Saudi Arabia, although the findings would assist any organisation in its TQM journey.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual framework was derived from the literature review. A survey was developed and distributed to a sample population in the organisation. Follow‐up interviews were carried out with key management staff.

Findings

It was found that the selected TQM pre‐requisites and the current state within the organisation are not aligned. Recommendations are made to address these shortcomings.

Research limitations/implications

Future research could examine the influence of national culture and religion in adopting TQM practices in Arab countries.

Practical implications

Much has been written about TQM in the academic literature. The paper investigates how that theory stands up in the workplace.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the body of knowledge about organisations in Saudi Arabia and their efforts to adopt modern business approaches and TQM in particular. Quality professionals and researchers alike will gain insights into some of the obstacles to the successful implementation of TQM.
Measuring the knowledge productivity
Authors: Ramezan Majid
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a validated model for measuring the knowledge productivity in knowledge‐based organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

A list of affecting factors on knowledge productivity was initially obtained from a literature review and verified by a panel of selected experts. The final model was formulated based on the responses of the experts. A survey questionnaire was then developed to collect data from knowledge workers.

Findings

The results show that there are strong correlations between organizational learning, intellectual capital and innovation. The statistical analysis support that the dimensions of learning (individual, group and organization) have positive impact on dimensions of intellectual capital (human, social and structural). Finally, the output of intellectual capital is the ability to create knowledge‐based results or innovation.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation of this research is the lack of literature about knowledge productivity.

Originality/value

As not many studies have been done on knowledge productivity, the paper's findings will be useful to assess the learning ability to create knowledge‐based results or innovation in organizations.
Health and safety: teaching law, educating for prevention
Authors: de Silva Carrie
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Teaching health and safety law to non‐lawyers can involve an unreceptive audience. The author works with prospective rural practice surveyors involved with the two highest risk working environments in the UK: construction and agriculture. Unlike construction, the agricultural industry has failed to reduce annual fatalities in the past quarter century and continues to account for around 20 percent of workplace deaths, whilst employing under two percent of the workforce. The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of teaching methods on both substantive learning and student attitudes.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used is an iterative process of action research. The paper is introductory, reporting teaching approach and outline findings. Further data will be collected over forthcoming academic periods. The paper explores the use of court cases, as an introduction to studies, to pique student interest, enhance legal skills and, importantly, to attempt to influence behaviour. The paper sets out teaching issues and experiences and outlines judgments used in 2011/12.

Findings

The paper reviews the responses to preliminary research (self‐evaluation, peer review teaching observation, student questionnaires) ascertaining student attitudes and understanding of the area before and after teaching, and student engagement with pre‐class preparation.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations of the paper include length of study to date and measurable outcomes.

Practical implications

Practical implications include informing the attitudes of those with significant responsibilities in a vital area. A discrete academic/CPD programme for health and safety education is being developed as a result with far reaching impact.

Originality/value

The effectiveness of different teaching methods in health and safety law and practice in this area has not previously been evaluated.
Biometric solutions for today's travel security problems
Authors: Morosan Cristian
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the applicability of biometric systems in travel and explain how they can be used in response to today's increasing security problems.

Design/methodology/approach

This research is conceptual. Its analysis is based on an extensive review of literature on biometric systems.

Findings

Biometric systems can improve travel security without compromising consumer value, convenience, and privacy. Deployment of various applications of biometric systems (i.e. immigration/visitor management systems, trusted traveler programs) improve specific aspects of travel security. Biometric systems present challenges, associated with consumers' perceptions of system functionality, privacy, trust, and anxiety, which must be examined in the context of consumer adoption. To achieve synergy in travel information technology and provide benefits to all stakeholders, biometric systems must seamlessly integrate with other travel technologies, both intra‐firm and inter‐firm.

Research limitations/implications

This research provides a domain statement for biometric systems in travel and stays at the foundation of a methodical approach for the study of biometric systems in travel. It offers a conceptual framework that asserts that an integrated deployment and adoption of biometric systems in travel can transform the current travel system into an ideal, more secure system. Further, this study formulates a number of propositions for further empirical examination of biometric systems in specific fields within travel.

Practical implications

This research provides specific suggestions to integrate biometric systems with the existing systems to achieve synergies and derive benefits for travel stakeholders.

Social implications

Addressing the security‐privacy relationship, biometric systems have social implications. Travelers' concerns about privacy, fear of harm, trust, and anxiety are found to influence their view of biometric systems, with potential implications for adoption and use.

Originality/value

To date, there is scant academic research examining how biometric systems improve travel security. Thus, the position of this research is unique: it offers insight into a technology that is promising for both research and practitioners investigating the role of biometric systems in improving travel security and paves the way for a multitude of specific research directions.
A critical review of the literature on the rate of return risk in Islamic banks
Authors: Zainol Zairy , Hj. Kassim Salina
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to provide a critical review of the literature on the rate of return risk faced by Islamic banks.

Design/methodology/approach

Through a thorough review of the literature, this paper presents the discussion among scholars regarding the rate of return risk in Islamic banks.

Findings

One of the major issues highlighted is the sensitivity of Islamic banks to the changes in the conventional interest rate due to the fact that many Islamic banking products are benchmarked against the conventional interest rate. Moreover, the limited techniques and instruments available to mitigate the rate of return risk also need serious attention by the regulators.

Research limitations/implications

The study relies solely on the literature and highlights important issues in the area but does not provide any empirical evidence of the importance of rate of return risk to Islamic banks as it is beyond the scope of the paper.

Practical implications

There are several issues that should be taken into consideration. First, the dearth of empirical research on the identification of the rate of return risk in Islamic banking highlights the need to develop appropriate methodology to enrich the study on the rate of return risk. Second, more focus is needed to determine the impact of rate of return risk on the financial stability and the performance of Islamic banks.

Originality/value

This paper highlights several important issues relating to the rate of return risk in Islamic banks that are not widely discussed among researchers. In particular, this paper emphasizes the need to identify, handle and mitigate such risks to ensure the stability of Islamic banks. Therefore, this paper identifies a gap that needs further exploration so as to contribute towards enriching the existing literature in this area.
Definitional constructs of cyber‐bullying and cyber‐aggression from a triangulatory overview: a preliminary study into elements of cyber‐bullying
Authors: Grigg Dorothy W.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the acts that constitute cyber‐bullying and to see how from a lay concept these acts are classified.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were gathered using two groups of participants (two Australian participants and three British participants may posit different cultural views). The first set of data was generated through cyber‐bullying element extraction from cyber‐bullying literature and interviews were conducted with five college students (three from the United Kingdom and two from Australia). The second set was generated through open ended demonstration of internet negative acts such as sending unwanted messages, rude images, threats and malicious messages in a scenario classification questionnaire. This involved the recruitment of 114 first year undergraduate psychology students in the United Kingdom. The scenario questionnaire measured participants' categorisation of internet negative acts from a lay perspective. Participants' perceptions of cyber‐bullying were examined through grounded theory and thematic narratives to see how these findings differ from literature in the cyber‐bullying arena.

Findings

Emerging theory indicates the need to treat cyber‐bullying as a standalone entity without the confounding role that the more traditional concept of bullying plays in cyber bullying definitions. Additionally, internet negative acts, irrespective of their terminological classifications, were perceived as immoral and anti‐social. Suggestions were made to aid practitioners' to implement interventions against cyber‐bullying.

Research limitations/implications

Participant numbers at stage one were limited. Thus, it is suggested future replication(s) of this study employ(s) a larger number of participants so as to ascertain the generalisability of findings. It is also suggested that potential future studies should employ quantitative analyses to further triangulate the findings of the current study.

Originality/value

The strength of the present study lies in its rich qualitative triangulation, as well as its focus on exploring elements that constitute cyber‐bullying from a lay perspective.
Terrorists meeting their victims: a case study of psychologists' experiences of former terrorists meeting survivors
Authors: Gargan Ian , Kelly Meldon Fíona , Aherne Cian , Fitzgerald Noelle , McNicholas Jane
Published: September 2012

Purpose

Acts of violent extremism have become more regular in the past decade. Little research has managed to analyse the interplay between the individuals who have carried out these acts and those who have experienced them. By bringing two such groups together in direct contact with each other, The Summit Against Violent Extremism (SAVE) offered a unique opportunity to explore the experiences of former violent extremists and victims of terrorist acts. This article aims to focus on this initiative.

Design/methodology/approach

The article is designed to take the reader through the discussions of three senior psychologists who attended SAVE to offer support to all involved. Their experiences and insights were gathered, within a focus group, to develop themes with the aim to discuss and share.

Findings

Psychologists outlined social development, self‐identity, family and peer groups as critical to the development of extremist views and to the de‐radicalisation of such views. It was reported that the summit gave survivors a chance to express their anger in a positive setting but that this setting could be improved for future summits. Challenges that faced the psychologists included the multi‐lingual environment and confidentiality issues.

Practical implications

The summit was seen as a successful means for developing an understanding of those who have taken part in acts of extreme violence and terror. The psychologists provide practical suggestions for future de‐radicalisation of people in extremist groups.

Originality/value

The role of therapeutic psychologists in such a summit was viewed as critically important as a support to both formers and survivors.
Predictive validity of self‐reported self‐control for different forms of recidivism
Authors: Grieger Lena , Hosser Daniela , Schmidt Alexander F.
Published: September 2012

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the predictive validity of self‐control (SC) for several forms of criminal recidivism (general, property, violence, sexual).

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 1,838 male prisoners were interviewed while serving a prison sentence. Personality traits known to be related to SC served as operationalization of SC. Cluster analyses identified three clusters of SC‐related traits: Emotion regulation, Self‐assertion, and Effortful control. Survival‐analyses predicted recidivism, which was assessed using official data. The follow up period amounted to 72 months.

Findings

The SC‐related trait clusters significantly predicted general and violent reoffending, after controlling for established risk factors for recidivism (age, age at first offense, social status, previous youth detention, out‐of‐home placements, and length of imprisonment). However, trait clusters did not predict reoffending with a property offense. Offenders with violent or sex offenses in their criminal history showed different profiles on the trait clusters.

Originality/value

The paper shows that SC is an important risk factor for violent recidivism. SC‐related trait clusters should not be combined to form a single score, because essential information for risk profiles would be lost.