bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
TheArabidopsisRNA-Directed DNA Methylation Argonautes Functionally Diverge Based on Their Expression and Interaction with Target Loci
Authors: Havecker Ericka R. , Wallbridge Laura M. , Hardcastle Thomas J. , Bush Maxwell S. , Kelly Krystyna A. , Dunn Ruth M. , Schwach Frank , Doonan John H. , Baulcombe David C.
Published: February 2010

Argonaute (AGO) effectors of RNA silencing bind small RNA (sRNA) molecules and mediate mRNA cleavage, translational repression, or epigenetic DNA modification. In many organisms, these targeting mechanisms are devolved to different products of AGO multigene families. To investigate the basis of AGO functional diversification, we characterized three closely related Arabidopsis thaliana AGOs (AGO4, AGO6, and AGO9) implicated in RNA-directed DNA methylation. All three AGOs bound 5′ adenosine 24-nucleotide sRNAs, but each exhibited different preferences for sRNAs from different heterochromatin-associated loci. This difference was reduced when AGO6 and AGO9 were expressed from the AGO4 promoter, indicating that the functional diversification was partially due to differential expression of the corresponding genes. However, the AGO4-directed pattern of sRNA accumulation and DNA methylation was not fully recapitulated with AGO6 or AGO9 expressed from the AGO4 promoter. Here, we show that sRNA length and 5′ nucleotide do not account for the observed functional diversification of these AGOs. Instead, the selectivity of sRNA binding is determined by the coincident expression of the AGO and sRNA-generating loci, and epigenetic modification is influenced by interactions between the AGO protein and the different target loci. These findings highlight the importance of tissue specificity and AGO-associated proteins in influencing epigenetic modifications.
Design and analysis for an innovative scheme of SINS/GPS ultra‐tight integration
Authors: Jie Yu , Xinlong Wang , Jiaxing Ji
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to improve the tracking performance of the carrier phase lock loop (PLL) in the strapdown inertial navigation system/global positioning system (SINS/GPS) integrated system with an innovative scheme of ultra‐tight integration.

Design/methodology/approach

First, providing the Doppler frequency for PLL using SINS velocity could enlarge the loop equivalent bandwidth and reduce the dynamic effect on the carrier loop. Meanwhile, lowering the filter bandwidth could increase the immunity to noise. Second, the relationships between the PLL and SINS errors have been analyzed, and then the PLL error model is established to eliminate the correlation between the pseudo‐range‐rate error and SINS velocity error. Third, the carrier frequency is regulated to improve the tracking accuracy, according to the error estimations of Kalman filter.

Findings

The innovative ultra‐tightly integrated system could not only enhance the anti‐jamming capability and the dynamic tracking performance of the tracking loops, but also improve the pseudo‐range‐rate measurements accuracy for the integrated filter.

Originality/value

This paper provides further study on the method of enhancing the carrier‐tracking performance and improving the integration mode in the ultra‐tightly integrated system based on the software‐defined GPS receiver.
Induced rolling moment for NACA4412 plain and flapped wing
Authors: Elsayed Omer A. , Kwon Kijung , Asrar Waqar , Omar Ashraf A.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The paper aims to compute rolling moments on a follower aircraft wing due to vortices generated by a plain and flapped NACA4412 wing using experimental particle image velocimetery (PIV) data.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper describes the detailed variation of the induced rolling moment on a follower aircraft wing derived from a PIV velocity field measurement. A rectangular wing of a subsonic wall interference model is used as a vortex generator in two different configurations: plain wing of NACA4412 cross‐section profile; and flapped wing with trailing edge flap of NACA0012 cross‐section profile extended at 20°.

Findings

Results obtained showed that the maximum induced rolling moment coefficient depends on the strength of the vortex produced by the generating aircraft wing and increases linearly with the increment of the angle of attack.

Originality/value

This paper provides an insight on the effects of different angles of attacks for plain and flapped wings on the induced rolling moment coefficient and therefore, the hazard imposed on the following aircraft can be estimated.
Fuzzy logic‐based detection scheme for pilot fatigue
Authors: Perhinschi M.G. , Smith B. , Betoney P.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The paper aims to present the development of a detection scheme for pilot fatigue using fuzzy logic. Evaluation parameters based on the dynamic response of the pilot/aircraft system are to be defined and criteria for online fatigue detection to be formulated.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach is based on the idea that, while performing the same task, under otherwise identical conditions, the dynamic signatures of the pilot/aircraft system are different depending on the pilot condition, “rested” or “tired.” Tests performed on a 6 degrees‐of‐freedom (DOF) flight simulator with pilots at two extreme levels of alertness are used to define parameters based on aircraft states and pilot input measurements that can serve as pilot fatigue detectors at steady state flight conditions. These parameters are computed using the statistics of the tracking errors (TE), state and control time histories, and the Fourier transforms of the TE. Fuzzy logic is used to evaluate the pilot condition based on composite detection parameters.

Findings

Validation tests on a 6 DOF flight simulator showed that the proposed detection scheme has promising capabilities for safety monitoring purposes and design of control laws that can accommodate for pilot abnormal conditions.

Research limitations/implications

The pilot fatigue detection algorithm presented in this paper can be used as a starting point for future research in the following directions: development of safety monitoring systems for warning and/or triggering of automatic control compensation; development of pilot fault‐tolerant control laws; development of human pilot models for simulation, handling qualities assessment, and control laws design.

Practical implications

The approach for pilot fatigue detection proposed in this paper is a viable alternative to existing methods based on physiological measurements such as electrical activity of the brain, pulse, body temperature, etc. which imply direct and permanent connection of the pilot to the measurement system and interfere adversely with pilot comfort and his/her ability to perform the task. The proposed approach eliminates this drawback and does not require on‐board additional heavy equipment.

Originality/value

Pilot fatigue assessment from measurements of pilot/aircraft dynamic parameters has not yet been investigated as an alternative to the physiological approach.
Configurations analysis for high‐altitude/long‐endurance airships
Authors: Yu Daren , Lv Xiaowu
Published: February 2010

Purpose

In recent years, high‐altitude/long‐endurance airship platforms have generated great interest as a means to provide communications and surveillance capabilities. The purpose of this paper is to develop a model for airship conceptual design and help provide insight into the viability of high‐altitude/long‐endurance airships.

Design/methodology/approach

A configuration analysis model with the consideration of pressure difference, temperature difference, and helium purity, etc. was developed. The influences of the airship payload, size and area required of solar cell with environment and operation parameters, such as operation latitude, pressure difference, temperature difference, helium purity, seasons, latitude, and wind speed, etc. were analyzed.

Findings

The results show that the area of solar cell required for stratospheric airship is very large under the condition of low altitude, high latitude, wind, and in winter, etc. which might make the design of high‐altitude/long‐endurance airship an elusive goal. They also show that the solar cell efficiency is the key technology in the control of solar cell area required for airships, and the technology advances in regenerative fuel cells and propeller efficiency have significant effects among on the airship payload, size, and solar cell area required for airship.

Originality/value

The paper analyses the energy balance of the high‐altitude/long‐endurance airship.
Who wins? Who loses?
Authors: Klimaszewski Cheryl , Bader Gail E. , Nyce James M. , Beasley Brian E.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to argue that those involved in cultural heritage preservation efforts must look more critically at how preconceived notions of “history” and “tradition” affect both the design and outcomes of preservation efforts. This paper also adds to the limited library and information science (LIS) discourse on the problematic nature of significance as it relates to selecting aspects of cultural heritage for preservation, which is of particular importance to LIS practitioners as they work to help others capture, preserve and represent their traditional knowledge and ways of life.

Design/methodology/approach

The argument is based on research carried out in rural Romania in the summer of 2007. Faculty from Ball State University with students from several US universities collected qualitative data using ethnographic methods for an ongoing historic preservation effort in the community of Viscri. In addition to the community case study, the LIS literature on the problem of assigning significance to cultural objects for preservation is reviewed.

Findings

Cultural preservation efforts tend to rely on legitimate lay understandings of history, tradition and culture that, in turn, inform social life in a community. Such limited understandings influence the program choices and resource allocations made in cultural preservation efforts. It also tends to finesse the role the elite and powerful have over these programs. Viscri provides a real‐world example that illustrates some lessons to be learned about how the LIS community thinks about tradition and modernity and the relationship both have to cultural heritage preservation.

Research limitations/implications

The argument rests on a single community study. However, a literature review and an in‐depth analysis of a particular historical preservation effort strengthen the paper's argument.

Originality/value

In order for preservation efforts to more equitably preserve cultural heritage, the LIS community has to ask more analytic questions about what history and tradition are in the context of the communities it serves. Those involved in cultural preservation efforts must bring to their work an awareness of the consequences of selecting certain aspects of culture and heritage over others have for preservation efforts.
Malaysian cultural heritage at risk?
Authors: Abd Manaf Zuraidah , Ismail Aliza
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore and understand the state of the art of managing digital resources focusing on the availability of risk strategy practice by cultural institutions in Malaysia, in order to maintain and preserve their digitised resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The multiple case study approach is adopted, where three selected cultural institutions participate.

Findings

One of the significant findings is the ability of the institutions to sustain their digitised resources. The paper discusses the issues related to the risk management of digital resources in Malaysian cultural institutions.

Research limitations/implications

This paper offers a comparative evaluation among three main cultural institutions in Malaysia.

Practical implications

The paper's findings and discovery are significant in highlighting the crucial elements which need to be addressed to ensure the sustainability and successful implementation of any digitisation project.

Originality/value

The findings of this paper contribute towards the dissemination of the new knowledge specifically in the management of digital preservation of cultural resources available in Malaysia.
The influence of the availability of fruits and vegetables in the workplace on the consumption of workers
Authors: Henrique Bandoni Daniel , de Moura Bombem Kelly Cristina , Lobo Marchioni Dirce Maria , Constante Jaime Patricia
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess the influence of availability of fruits and vegetables on adult workers' consumption adequacy in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 1,344 workers, who have had meals in 30 different companies, located in the city of São Paulo, Brazil, are assessed. Two indicators are used to assess the following: workers' consumption of fruits and vegetables; usual consumption, found through a questionnaire on frequency of consumption of these foods; and workplace consumption, assessed with a food consumption questionnaire provided by the company. Availability of fruits and vegetables in the menus is obtained using the descriptions of meals given to workers on three consecutive days. Data analysis is performed with logistic regression models that used two outcomes: usual consumption of fruits and vegetables and consumption of these foods in the workplace. Explanatory variables are divided into two levels: the first one was comprised by workers' characteristics (sex, age and level of education), and the second one by food availability in the workplace.

Findings

Consumption of fruits and vegetables, both the usual one and that in the workplace, is higher in women, and also in older individuals and those with higher level of education. Availability of fruits and vegetables in the workplace has a significant impact on usual food consumption and especially on the workplace, in which case the variable shows greatest impact on consumption.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the importance of the availability of fruits and vegetables in the workplace that influence consumption of food by workers, revealing the importance of using this environment to promote healthy eating.
Vending machines in hospitals – are they healthy?
Authors: Kibblewhite Samantha , Bowker Sue , Jenkins Huw R.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

A healthy, balanced and nutritious diet for children and young people is essential for normal growth and development. Vending machines can be a source of food and drink high in fat, sugar and salt, and can undermine healthy eating messages. The purpose of this paper is to examine the contents of vending machines available in the vicinity of paediatric wards and paediatric out‐patient departments in hospitals in Wales.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaires are completed by staff in the Department of Child Health in each NHS Trust in Wales. This paper summarises the results.

Findings

Most vending machines found in the vicinity of paediatric wards and paediatric out‐patient departments in hospitals in Wales contain a majority of foods high in fat salt and sugar. Only a few contain over 50 per cent of drinks classified as healthy.

Research limitations/implications

There is no universally agreed definition of healthy food as related to individual products. This study looks at the availability of foods and drinks classified as “unhealthy” but does not look at the overall diet of the children in the ward.

Practical implications

The results of this study should encourage NHS Trusts to consider the contents of vending machines in the vicinity of paediatric wards and paediatric out‐patient departments in hospitals.

Originality/value

There is much rhetoric around the potential of vending machines to contribute to an unhealthy diet. This is the first paper to identify specific problems with hospital vending machines.
Potential of African pear (Dacryodes edulis) as an ingredient in plantain‐based composite cookies
Authors: Faramade Osundahunsi Oluwatooyin , Titilope Seidu Kudirat , Victoria Oyerinde Olubukola
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the level of substitution of margarine with African pear that will be acceptable to consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

A recipe for cookies is modified by replacing margarine with African pear. Plantain composite flour is also used. Physical parameters and proximate composition are determined using standard methods. Sensory evaluation is carried out using sensory panelists.

Findings

The moisture content of the cookies ranges from 2.09 to 4.10 per cent, fat content and ash contents range from 21.40 to 22.90 per cent and 2.14 to 2.77 per cent, respectively. The ash content is higher than the value 1.43 per cent recorded for cookies made from 100 per cent margarine. The average value for energy 487 kcal/100 g will meet the recommended daily dietary allowance. There is no significant difference on the average weight, thickness, volume and density of the cookies made from 25 to 100 per cent African pear with either 25 or 50 per cent ripe/unripe plantain flour. Average weight, thickness, volume and density are 5.60 g, 058 mm, 9.72 cm3, and 0.574 g/cm3, respectively. Sensory evaluation reveals that composite flour at 25‐100 per cent with either ripe or unripe plantain shows significant difference (p < 0.05) in taste and overall acceptability. At 50 per cent unripe or ripe plantain composite flour, there is no significant difference in attributes except flavour.

Research limitations/implications

Up to 50 per cent level of substitution of wheat for plantain flour is found to be acceptable in the preliminary report and used.

Practical implications

Replacement of margarine with African pear at below and up to 50 per cent is acceptable. Overall acceptability reduces with increasing level of substitution.

Originality/value

African pear pulp substitution with as much as 50 per cent does not adversely affect the proximate composition, physical and sensory characteristic. At which level the protein and ash content increases, which is an indication of good nutritional quality. African pear could be processed into value‐added product which can be of interest in school‐children feeding programs and in combating malnutrition, which is still prevalent in Nigeria.
Effect of Greek orthodox Easter holidays on body weight gain
Authors: Hourdakis M. , Papandreou D. , Malindretos P. , Vassilakou D. , Papastergiou N. , Tantsidis D. , Kouvelas D.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

It is commonly asserted that a lot of people may gain about 2.5 kg of weight or more over holiday periods, however data are limited. The purpose of this paper is to assess potential changes that may occur in body weight, body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference during Easter holidays.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 138 college students participate in the study in the morning after a 12 h fasting. Body weight is assessed using an electronic scale (Seca ± 0.1 g), wearing minimal clothing. Paired t‐test is used to assess changes in body weight before and after a holiday period.

Findings

The mean (±SD) weight increases significantly during the holiday period (+1.5 ± 2.4 kg, p < 0.001) and (+1.7 ± 1.3 kg, p < 0.001) for both males and females, respectively. When subjects are classified by BMI as normal or overweight (OW)/obese, a significant 2.6 ± 3.5 kg gain is found (p < 0.05) in the OW/obese group (≥25 kg/m2). The average holiday gain is less than what is commonly asserted. This gain is not usually reversed and may contribute to the increase of body weight that frequently occurs during adulthood.

Research limitations/implications

A convenience sample (college students), rather than a population‐based sample is used; also the activity level of the subjects is not measured, which might influence the body weight gain.

Originality/value

The paper should be of value to nutritionists and clinical dietetics.
Enzymatic elimination of acrylamide in potato‐based thermally treated foods
Authors: Ciesarová Zuzana , Kukurová Kristína , Benešová Cyntia
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Acrylamide is a processing chemical contaminant arising from naturally occurring food components during heat treatment. The purpose of this paper is to ascertain and confirm the possibility of its reduction by L‐asparaginase enzyme application.

Design/methodology/approach

As acrylamide itself is formed from amino acid L‐asparagine and reducing saccharides via the Maillard reaction, the elimination of one of these precursors by L‐asparaginase enzyme in raw material leads to the suppression of acrylamide content in a final product.

Findings

The application of L‐asparaginase solution in a simulated potato matrix results in 50‐90 per cent reduction of acrylamide content depending on the conditions (enzyme dosage, time and temperature of incubation). No significant differences in the activities of bacterial‐ and fungal‐originated enzymes are observed. The positive effect of L‐asparaginase application on acrylamide content reduction is confirmed also in raw potato mash as well as in dehydrated potato‐wheat semi‐products for making of fried pancakes. No detrimental sensorial or quality impacts on final products are observed.

Research limitations/implications

A described way of an enzyme application is suitable for homogenised mixtures like batter or mash where the efficiency of enzyme activity in the whole mass is guaranteed.

Practical implications

The elimination of acrylamide content in thermally treated foods without an undesirable impact on quality of products could lead to the noticeable diminution of acrylamide intake from foods.

Originality/value

This procedure diversifies the possibility of the enzyme application from a cereal sector to potato‐based foods.
Hydrolytic stability of S‐hydroxyethyl N,N‐dialkyl dithiocarbamate‐derived borates and their tribological behavior as additives in PAO
Authors: Sun Yubin , Hu Litian , Xue Qunji
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the hydrolytic stability of several S‐hydroxyethyl N,N‐dialkyl dithiocarbamate‐derived borates SNB1, SNB2, and SNB3, to evaluate their tribological performances used as additives in polyalpha olefins (PAO), and to explore the tribochemical action mechanism.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the three additives are synthesized and characterized. Second, the hydrolytic stabilities of the three compounds are investigated. As the third step, they are, respectively, added to PAO and a series of samples with different concentrations of the additives in PAO are prepared, respectively. Their tribological properties are evaluated with two types of four‐ball machines, and then the wear scars were observed using a JSM‐5600LV scanning electron microscope. Finally, the elements on the worn surface are analyzed with a X‐ray photoelectron spectroscope (XPS).

Findings

The three novel compounds possess relatively good hydrolytic stabilities, excellent anti‐wear (AW) performances, friction reduction properties, and load‐carrying capacity. There is an optimum concentration of each of the three additives for their AW properties. According to the XPS analytical results, a boundary lubrication protective film has formed during friction consisting of FeSO4 film, Fe2O3 film, and the complicated adsorption film composed of N‐containing organic compounds. In the protective films, a large quantity of compounds containing element B is not found.

Research limitations/implications

The antioxidation performances and the anticorrosion properties are not estimated.

Practical implications

Three novel AW/extreme pressure (EP) additives are synthesized, and may be they have the potential industrial application as AW/EP additives in lubricating oil.

Originality/value

The present work provides a research method of N,S‐containing organic borates as lubricating oil additives.
The effect of natural frequency of the experimental set‐up on the friction coefficient
Authors: Chowdhury M.A. , Ali M. , Helali M.M.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The frictional behavior of glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) under natural frequency of the experimental set‐up is yet to be investigated. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the frictional behavior of GFRP under natural frequency of the experimental set‐up.

Design/methodology/approach

Experimental vibration is generated artificially in such a way that direction, amplitude, and frequency of vibration can be controlled.

Findings

The presence of natural frequency of vibration indeed affects the friction force considerably. The natural frequency of vibration decreases with the increase of added dead loads to the experimental set‐up. The values of friction coefficient increase with the increase of natural frequency of vibration of the experimental set‐up. As the friction coefficient increases with increasing natural frequency of vibration, therefore maintaining appropriate level of natural frequency vibration friction may be kept to some lower value to improve mechanical processes.

Practical implications

It is expected that the applications of these results will contribute to the improvement of different concerned mechanical systems.

Originality/value

The research is carried out experimentally and it can be expected the experimental results can be used for designing mechanical machine and systems.
Public management means strategic management
Authors: Düren Petra
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The New Public Management creates new tasks and challenges for libraries. They have to change from input‐ to output‐management, to develop a strategy, to operationalize this strategy and find key performance indicators to see if the strategic goals are reached or if actions or the strategy itself need to be changed. This paper aims to give one example how these new specifications can be accomplished.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the strategy adopted which utilises the balanced scorecard (BSC).

Finding

The most important results of this research are that an organizational culture based on trust correlates significantly with the use of the balanced scorecard and accounts for 28 per cent of the use of the BSC as a strategic management system. Also, the transformational as well as the transactional leadership affect the culture based on trust. Transformational leadership accounts for 19.1 per cent and transactional leadership accounts for 16.9 per cent of the organizational culture

Originality/value

The German National Library of Science and Technology (TIB)‐BSC example described in the paper shows that the balanced scorecard is a possible strategic management system for libraries.
Forgotten anything: library staff competencies for the learning commons
Authors: Kloppenborg Paul , Lodge Damian
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate which skills library managers think their staff should possess as their organisational culture alters to meet the demands of a changing internal and external TAFE environment and user needs.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey is used to ascertain what library managers believe needs to be included as a recognisable competency for their staff to perform their work. The survey contains 20 broad categories of skills listed under five main areas. A total of 18 TAFF Libraries are used in the survey. Data are entered into Excel. Tabulation consolidates the list of 200 skills and/or comptencies. Comments are also collected at part of the investigation

Findings

The perception that having as many competencies as possible is hightly indicative of a well rounded, service focused and broadly informed library staff member. Of the library managers, 64 per cent strongly agreed that finding and using print and online resources was an important skill to possess; 93 per cent agree that library staff should maintain a healthy work‐life balance; and 79 per cent agreed that staff should understand the performance standards relating to their position.

Originality/value

The paper illustrates that the team is greater than the sum of its parts.
Benchmarking, an imperative for special libraries in the Caribbean: the Jamaican case
Authors: Nicholas Pauline
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of benchmarking and its application as a total quality management tool. It provides librarians with insights into one strategy that may be used to prove that the library is contributing to the bottom line of the parent organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper has two sections. The first half is a discussion on the need for strategic measurement and evaluation in special libraries in the Caribbean. Ranganathan's five laws of library science are reconsidered in the context of the changing library environment and are used to demonstrate how libraries can remain relevant. An overview of quality management and the application of benchmarking in libraries is also presented. The second half highlights a benchmarking pilot project that is being considered by a group of librarians in the special libraries section of the Library and Information Association of Jamaica and how one special library has adopted appropriate measurement and evaluation techniques to define its value in the organization and to keep its position in the Library Association of Jamaica as a focal point for the Socio‐Economic Information Network (SECIN).

Findings

Special libraries in Jamaica must move away from being cost centres to being value‐added units. Proactive strategies that will create new value in the organization or allow the organization to remain on the cutting edge must be developed and implemented.

Originality/value

The paper enables special librarians to have a better understanding of how to implement a benchmarking project in their organizations.
Barriers to the executive suite: evidence from Ireland
Authors: Cross Christine
Published: February 2010

Purpose

While the question regarding the low numbers of senior female managers has been posed for decades, it is of particular significance in the Irish context, as a result of the emergence of the Celtic Tiger and the associated rise in female labour force participation. This paper aims to investigate the impact of both individual and organisational barriers on female managerial career progression in Ireland, in an effort to increase understanding of why there are still so few senior female managers. The focus in this study is women in middle level management positions, as it is individuals at this organisational rank who are the natural successors to the executive suite.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews were conducted with 30 female managers, from across a wide range of industry sectors in Ireland.

Findings

The results highlight that the collision of managerial career stage with family life demands is resulting in many female managers feeling pressurized into remaining at middle management level, rather than seeking promotion. One of the most interesting issues to emerge is the importance afforded by the respondents to “visibility” as a career strategy.

Originality/value

The research findings contribute to both the limited research on the Irish context, and to the wider extant literature on the glass ceiling, particularly on the experiences and perceptions of those at middle management level.
Construct validation of a Theory X/Y behavior scale
Authors: Kopelman Richard E. , Prottas David J. , Falk David W.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to discuss the historical importance and current relevance of Douglas McGregor's Theory X and Y, and to suggest that the paucity of related empirical research is, in part, attributable to the lack of validated measures. The present research seeks to describe the development and construct validation of a measure pertinent to Theory X/Y behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

Surveys completed by 512 working adults provide the present data. A total of 26 initial Theory X/Y behavior items are reduced to 13 through factor analysis. Convergent and discriminant validities are examined through correlational and regression analyses with measures of proximal, distal, and unrelated constructs. Test re‐test reliability is assessed using longitudinal panel data from a subset of respondents.

Findings

The results provide evidence of the construct validity of the new measure.

Research limitations/implications

Respondents are relatively young and drawn from one region of the USA. Future research should collect multi‐source and multi‐level data.

Practical implications

The 13‐item scale may be useful as a diagnostic tool for individual and organizational development.

Originality/value

This paper represents the first research endeavor that focuses on construct‐validating a measure of managerial X/Y behaviors, as distinct from attitudes. The scale can be used in substantive research, including a more robust test of McGregor's theorizing.
Brain‐computer interfaces: control by thought
Authors: Bogue Robert
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a technical insight into recent developments in brain‐computer interface (BCI) technology and its applications.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an introduction to BCI, this paper considers the different means of detecting brain waves and then discusses a number of BCI development programmes and applications.

Findings

Invasive, partially invasive and non‐invasive BCI techniques are the topic of extensive study and aim to allow the control of external devices by human thought. Invasive BCIs are being applied to patients suffering paralysis and requiring cranial surgery and aim to restore movement or impart other functions such as the operation of robotic arms or communication. Wireless invasive microelectrode arrays are under development. Of the non‐invasive techniques, electroencephalography is attracting the greatest interest and is being applied to a range of military and healthcare uses.

Originality/value

This paper provides an introduction to BCI technology and a review of recent research and a number of key applications.
High‐level programming and control for industrial robotics: using a hand‐held accelerometer‐based input device for gesture and posture recognition
Authors: Neto Pedro , Norberto Pires J. , Paulo Moreira A.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

Most industrial robots are still programmed using the typical teaching process, through the use of the robot teach pendant. This is a tedious and time‐consuming task that requires some technical expertise, and hence new approaches to robot programming are required. The purpose of this paper is to present a robotic system that allows users to instruct and program a robot with a high‐level of abstraction from the robot language.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents in detail a robotic system that allows users, especially non‐expert programmers, to instruct and program a robot just showing it what it should do, in an intuitive way. This is done using the two most natural human interfaces (gestures and speech), a force control system and several code generation techniques. Special attention will be given to the recognition of gestures, where the data extracted from a motion sensor (three‐axis accelerometer) embedded in the Wii remote controller was used to capture human hand behaviours. Gestures (dynamic hand positions) as well as manual postures (static hand positions) are recognized using a statistical approach and artificial neural networks.

Findings

It is shown that the robotic system presented is suitable to enable users without programming expertise to rapidly create robot programs. The experimental tests showed that the developed system can be customized for different users and robotic platforms.

Research limitations/implications

The proposed system is tested on two different robotic platforms. Since the options adopted are mainly based on standards, it can be implemented with other robot controllers without significant changes. Future work will focus on improving the recognition rate of gestures and continuous gesture recognition.

Practical implications

The key contribution of this paper is that it offers a practical method to program robots by means of gestures and speech, improving work efficiency and saving time.

Originality/value

This paper presents an alternative to the typical robot teaching process, extending the concept of human‐robot interaction and co‐worker scenario. Since most companies do not have engineering resources to make changes or add new functionalities to their robotic manufacturing systems, this system constitutes a major advantage for small‐ to medium‐sized enterprises.
Multichannel audio biofeedback for dynamical coupling between prosthetic hands and their users
Authors: González José , Yu Wenwei , Hernandez Arieta Alejandro
Published: February 2010

Purpose

It is widely agreed that amputees have to rely on visual input to monitor and control the position of the prosthesis while reaching and grasping because of the lack of proprioceptive feedback. Therefore, visual information has been a prerequisite for prosthetic hand biofeedback studies. This is why, the underlying characteristics of other artificial feedback methods used to this day, such as auditive, electro‐tactile, or vibro‐tactile feedback, has not been clearly explored. The purpose of this paper is to explore whether it is possible to use audio feedback alone to convey more than one independent variable (multichannel) simultaneously, without relying on the vision, to improve the learning of a new perceptions, in this case, to learn and understand the artificial proprioception of a prosthetic hand while reaching.

Design/methodology/approach

Experiments are conducted to determine whether the audio signals could be used as a multi‐variable dynamical sensory substitution in reaching movements without relying on the visual input. Two different groups are tested, the first one uses only audio information and the second one uses only visual information to convey computer‐simulated trajectories of two fingers.

Findings

The results show that it is possible to use auditive feedback to convey artificial proprioceptive information instead of vision as a guide, thus assist users by internalizing new perceptions.

Originality/value

This way, the strong and weak points of auditive feedback can be observed and can be used to improve future feedback systems or schemes, which can integrate different feedback methods to provide more information to the user.
Improving wheelchair‐driving using a sensor system to control wheelchair‐veer and variable‐switches as an alternative to digital‐switches or joysticks
Authors: Sanders David A. , Langner Martin , Tewkesbury Giles E.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present powered‐wheelchair transducers and systems that provide more control, reduced veer on slopes, and improved energy conservation, while reducing effort. They are especially significant for people with movement disorders who lack sufficient hand‐grasp and release ability or sufficient targeting skill to use joysticks.

Design/methodology/approach

Laboratory test rigs are created to test proportional switches and teach potential users. Then, trials are conducted with a rolling road and in real situations. Caster angle‐measurement is selected to provide feedback to minimize drift away from a chosen course and an electronic solution was created to match driver control to caster‐steering‐position. A case study is described as an example.

Findings

Results and advantages are presented from changing from using a set of digital‐switches to a set of new variable‐switches and then adding a sensor system to prevent veer on slopes. Systems have been tested for nearly two years and shown to assist powered‐wheelchair‐users with poor targeting skills.

Research limitations/implications

The research used wheelchairs with caster‐wheels but the systems could easily be used on other wheelchairs.

Practical implications

Simple input‐devices are presented that isolate gross motor function and are tolerant to involuntary movements (proportional‐switches). A sensor system is presented that assists users in steering across sloping or uneven ground.

Originality/value

Proportional‐switches and sensors are shown to reduce veer and provide more control over turn and forward speed and turn radius while reducing frustration and improving energy conservation. The simple and affordable systems could be created and attached to many standard powered‐wheelchairs in many organisations.
Development of an autonomous in‐pipe robot for offshore pipeline maintenance
Authors: Wang Zhongwei , Cao Qixin , Luan Nan , Zhang Lei
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a novel autonomous in‐pipe robot to perform the preventive point reparation for long‐distance offshore oil pipelines.

Design/methodology/approach

The autonomous in‐pipe robot performs online ultrasonic inspection for pipe wall thickness, and the original inspection data are stored in large capacity hard disk. Through the offline data analysis by the data analysts and the software tool, the pipeline health status is known. If server defects lie there, the in‐pipe robot is introduced into the pipeline once more to indicate the defect's location to the maintenance ship.

Findings

The laboratory tests and the field tests prove the feasibility and validity of the developed autonomous in‐pipe robot. Furthermore, the application of intelligent control techniques ensures the mission completion by the autonomous in‐pipe robot, which worked in the awful pipeline environment.

Practical implications

The developed autonomous in‐pipe robot helps eliminate lost production costs and pipeline downtime caused by leakages and guarantees the safe run of offshore oil pipelines.

Originality/value

For the application of the autonomous in‐pipe robot, there are no special requirements for maintained pipelines themselves, so it is applicable to the point reparation for most long‐distance welded offshore pipelines.
An industrial robot for thin‐type space solar cells bonding
Authors: Li Peibo , Fu Z. , Zhao Yanzheng
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a serial produced industrial robot for thin‐type space solar cells (SSC), which is applied to perform the bonding process of SSC.

Design/methodology/approach

An optimized process of adhesive coating and bonding for SSC is designed, based on an analysis of hydromechanics model. In order to perform the process, a novel robot is developed, which mainly consists of a three‐axis Cartesian coordinates' motion platform, coating‐and‐bonding device, solar cell and glass cover orientation plate, control system, pneumatic system, constant temperature module, and industrial personal computer software. The coating and bonding operation is based on the three‐axis Cartesian coordinates' motion and the help of pneumatic system.

Findings

Compared with the experimental prototype and handwork, the robot is more effective and reliable for the bonding process of the thin‐type solar cells.

Originality/value

The robot is very useful to realize automatic production of SSC.
Re‐thinkingtanawwo(diversity) andmusawat(equality) in the Middle East
Authors: Syed Jawad , Burke Ronald J. , Pinar Acar F.
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer an editorial introduction to the special issue on “Diversity management in the Middle East”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reviews the state of extant research on diversity and equal opportunity in the Middle East. It also offers an overview of the papers included in the special issue and the unique contribution they make to this field of knowledge.

Findings

Findings vary from one paper to the other; however, overall, the papers in the special issue bring to fore alternative types of national and corporate institutions, theoretical ideas, activities and challenges involved in diversity and equality management in the Middle East.

Research limitations/implications

The papers offer some fresh insights in terms of theorizing and enacting diversity and equal opportunity in departure from the dominant Anglo‐centric theorizations in this field.

Practical implications

Policy makers as well as business managers may take into account various findings and recommendations offered in the papers in formulating context‐specific policies and practices of diversity management in the Middle East.

Originality/value

There are not many researchers interested in this field in the Middle East. Thus there are relatively few high quality research papers being produced. Those that are published appear in a wide variety of journals never achieving a critical mass. And the central role of national culture and values is rarely examined. The current (special) issue ofEquality, Diversity and Inclusionaddresses these gaps.
An historical perspective on Islamic modesty and its implications for female employment
Authors: Syed Jawad
Published: February 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to offer an historical perspective on Islamic modesty and discuss its implications for female employment in Muslim majority countries (MMCs).

Design/methodology/approach

First the paper explores the textual roots of modesty as enshrined in the Quran and the hadith and the historical and socio‐cultural contexts within which the concept was introduced and subsequently transformed. It then discusses implications of Islamic modesty for female employment in MMCs.

Findings

The paper argues that the originally protective provisions for women in the principal sources of Islam were gradually transformed in the subsequent periods into strict patriarchal institutions of female seclusion and gender segregation. This shift was incorporated into Islam by way of the exegesis of the Quran and other religious narratives, resulting in an extremely restrictive concept of female modesty.

Research limitations/implications

The paper argues that in its current form the concept of Islamic modesty poses significant social, physical and emotional challenges for working women; unless these challenges are understood and addressed in their historical and socio‐cultural contexts, it will remain difficult to achieve gender equality at work in MMCs.

Practical implications

The orthodox (patriarchal) perspective on modesty does not grant women a role in a nation's economy, resulting in an inefficient utilisation of human resources. A possible way forward is to engage in critical reinterpretation of religion to reform gender relations in MMCs, including with respect to gender equality at work.

Originality/value

There has been relatively little research on Islam and gender equality in the context of employment. The usual radical feminist position is to view Islam and gender discrimination as intertwined, a union which would invariably result in female disadvantage in the workplace. This article contributes to this debate by offering an historical, socio‐cultural perspective on Islamic female modesty and considering its implications for female employment.