bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Profound CD4+/CCR5+ T cell expansion is induced by CD8+ lymphocyte depletion but does not account for accelerated SIV pathogenesis
Authors: Okoye Afam , Park Haesun , Rohankhedkar Mukta , Coyne-Johnson Lia , Lum Richard , Walker Joshua M. , Planer Shannon L. , Legasse Alfred W. , Sylwester Andrew W. , Piatak Michael , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Sodora Donald L. , Villinger Francois , Axthelm Michael K. , Schmitz Joern E. , Picker Louis J.
Published: June 2009

Depletion of CD8+ lymphocytes during acute simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection of rhesus macaques (RMs) results in irreversible prolongation of peak-level viral replication and rapid disease progression, consistent with a major role for CD8+ lymphocytes in determining postacute-phase viral replication set points. However, we report that CD8+ lymphocyte depletion is also associated with a dramatic induction of proliferation among CD4+ effector memory T (TEM) cells and, to a lesser extent, transitional memory T (TTrM) cells, raising the question of whether an increased availability of optimal (activated/proliferating), CD4+/CCR5+ SIV “target” cells contributes to this accelerated pathogenesis. In keeping with this, depletion of CD8+ lymphocytes in SIV− RMs led to a sustained increase in the number of potential CD4+ SIV targets, whereas such depletion in acute SIV infection led to increased target cell consumption. However, we found that the excess CD4+ TEM cell proliferation of CD8+ lymphocyte–depleted, acutely SIV-infected RMs was completely inhibited by interleukin (IL)-15 neutralization, and that this inhibition did not abrogate the rapidly progressive infection in these RMs. Moreover, although administration of IL-15 during acute infection induced robust CD4+ TEM and TTrM cell proliferation, it did not recapitulate the viral dynamics of CD8+ lymphocyte depletion. These data suggest that CD8+ lymphocyte function has a larger impact on the outcome of acute SIV infection than the number and/or activation status of target cells available for infection and viral production.
The 𝑆𝐿(2)-type and base change
Authors: Offen Omer , Sayag Eitan
Published: June 2009

The

S
L
(
2
)

SL(2)

-type of any smooth, irreducible and unitarizable representation of

G

L
n

GL_n

over a

p
p

-adic field was defined by Venkatesh. We provide a natural way to extend the definition to all smooth and irreducible representations. For unitarizable representations we show that the

S
L
(
2
)

SL(2)

-type of a representation is preserved under the base change with respect to any finite extension. The Klyachko model of a smooth, irreducible and unitarizable representation

π
\pi

of

G

L
n

GL_n

depends only on the

S
L
(
2
)

SL(2)

-type of

π
\pi

. As a consequence we observe that the Klyachko model of

π
\pi

and of its base change are of the same type.
Pindel: a pattern growth approach to detect break points of large deletions and medium sized insertions from paired-end short reads
Authors: Ye Kai , Schulz Marcel H. , Long Quan , Apweiler Rolf , Ning Zemin
Published: June 2009

Motivation: There is a strong demand in the genomic community to develop effective algorithms to reliably identify genomic variants. Indel detection using next-gen data is difficult and identification of long structural variations is extremely challenging.

Results: We present Pindel, a pattern growth approach, to detect breakpoints of large deletions and medium-sized insertions from paired-end short reads. We use both simulated reads and real data to demonstrate the efficiency of the computer program and accuracy of the results.

Availability: The binary code and a short user manual can be freely downloaded from http://www.ebi.ac.uk/∼kye/pindel/.

Contact:  k.ye@lumc.nl; zn1@sanger.ac.uk
Abnormal Savda Munziq, an Herbal Preparation of Traditional Uighur Medicine, May Prevent 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine‐Induced Rat Colon Carcinogenesis
Authors: Yusup Abdiryim , Upur Halmurat , Umar Anwar , Berke Benedicte , Yimit Dilxat , Lapham Jaya Conser , Moore Nicholas , Cassand Pierrette
Published: June 2009

The study tried to assess the chemoprotective effect of abnormal Savda Munziq (ASMq) on 1,2‐dimethylhydrazine (DMH)‐induced rat colon carcinogenesis. Male F344 rats were randomized into eight groups: Group 1 was served as control, no DMH injection was given and treated daily with normal saline. Rats in Groups 2–8 were given a single intraperitoneal injection of DMH (20 mg/kg body weight) at the beginning of the study. Group 2 was served as negative control, administered with normal saline until the end of the experiment after the single DMH injection. Groups 3–5 were served as pretreatment group, administered with ASMq ethanol extract at 400, 800 and 1600 mg/kg body weight, respectively, until the 45th day, continued by normal saline administration for another 45 days. Groups 6–8 were served as the treatment group, administered with normal saline for the first 45 days from the day of DMH injection, ASMq ethanol extract at three different doses to be administered until the end of the second 45th day. All rats were sacrificed at 91st day and the colons were analyzed for aberrant crypt foci (ACF) formation and crypt multiplicity. Results showed that ASMq ethanol extract reduced the number of ACF, AC and crypt multiplicity significantly (P < .05). It suggested that ASMq ethanol extract had chemoprotective effects on DMH‐induced colon carcinogenesis, by suppressing the development of preneoplastic lesions, and probably exerted protection against the initiation and promotion steps of colon carcinogenesis.
Long-term seasonal and spatial patterns in mortality and survival of Calanus finmarchicus across the Atlantic Zone Monitoring Programme region, Northwest Atlantic
Authors: Plourde Stéphane , Pepin Pierre , Head Erica J. H.
Published: June 2009

Plourde, S., Pepin, P., and Head, E. J. H. 2009. Long-term seasonal and spatial patterns in mortality and survival of Calanus finmarchicus across the Atlantic Zone Monitoring Programme region, Northwest Atlantic. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1942–1958. The vertical life table method was used to estimate stage-specific daily mortality rates and survival from 1999 to 2006 for Calanus finmarchicus sampled in the Canadian Atlantic Zone Monitoring Programme, which covers the Newfoundland–Labrador Shelf (NLS), Gulf of St Lawrence (GSL), and Scotian Shelf (SS). Stage-specific mortality rates and survival showed significant regional and seasonal differences, with the largest signal associated with variations in temperature. Density-dependent mortality, associated with the abundance of C6 females, was the main factor influencing mortality in the egg–C1 transition during the period of population growth in spring on the SS, and in summer in the GSL and on the NLS. In autumn, mortality in egg–C1 was positively related to temperature and negatively related to phytoplankton biomass, with particularly high mortality rates on the SS. The integration of our results into stage-specific recruitment rates from egg to C5 revealed that C. finmarchicus populations experience their greatest loss (mortality) during the egg–C1 transition. Loss during development to C1 was greater in the GSL than in the other regions during the period of population growth, resulting in lower recruitment success in the GSL. In autumn, C. finmarchicus showed low stage-specific daily recruitment rates on the SS at high temperatures, and low phytoplankton biomass compared with those in the GSL and on the NLS. Our findings reinforce the necessity of describing regional and seasonal patterns in mortality and survival to understand factors controlling the population dynamics of C. finmarchicus.
Variability in the relationship between sea scallop shell height and meat weight
Authors: Rothschild Brian J. , Adams Charles F. , Sarro Christopher L. , Stokesbury Kevin D. E.
Published: June 2009

Rothschild, B. J., Adams, C. F., Sarro, C. L., and Stokesbury, K. D. E. 2009. Variability in the relationship between sea scallop shell height and meat weight. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1972–1977. We investigated the spatial and temporal variability in the relationship between shell height and meat weight (SHMW) of the sea scallop (Placopecten magellanicus) from Georges Bank (GB) and the mid-Atlantic. Data for the study were collected collaboratively during normal commercial fishing operations. A one-way random-effects ANOVA revealed that 19–44% of the variance in MW was at the batch level. A linear mixed-effects model was used to explain the variability in SHMW regression equations across batches. There was a significant effect of month and year on the SHMW relationship for GB from June through December, and a significant effect of area and year on the SHMW relationship for the mid-Atlantic from January through May. The SHMW relationships presented reflect those of the fishery year-round rather than an estimate of the biological population at a specific point in time. Failure to include intra-annual, interannual, and regional variations in the SHMW could result in continually over- or underestimating the allowable catch in areas open to fishing for short periods. The techniques used are applicable to length–weight studies in general.
Recruitment forecasting using indices of young-of-the-year Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) abundance in the Strait of Georgia (BC)
Authors: Schweigert Jacob F. , Hay Douglas E. , Therriault Thomas W. , Thompson Matthew , Haegele Carl W.
Published: June 2009

Schweigert, J. F., Hay, D. E., Therriault, T. W., Thompson, M., and Haegele, C. W. 2009. Recruitment forecasting using indices of young-of-the-year Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) abundance in the Strait of Georgia (BC). – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 66: 1681–1687. Within the Strait of Georgia (BC, Canada), recruitment of Pacific herring (Clupea pallasi) to the spawning stock at age 3 can be highly variable, and this component may compose a major portion of the spawning-stock biomass. Therefore, a reliable method of forecasting recruitment strength would be useful for determining total allowable catches for the fishery. We developed an empirical approach to forecasting recruitment from young-of-the-year (YOY) surveys using purse-seine sampling in late September and evaluate its predictive capability for estimating the relative size of a year class before it enters the fishery. For each year, we compared YOY catches-by-weight with the number of age-3 recruits derived from subsequent catch-at-age analyses. The relationship is positive but not statistically significant because of considerable annual variation in the estimates. However, it is worth noting that in years when YOY herring were least abundant, the resulting cohort also was low. Consequently, although the relationship may not be sufficiently precise for accurate recruitment forecasting, it can be used by fishery management for the qualitative evaluation of the likelihood of strong or weak returns in future seasons when setting quotas for the fishery.
Nitrogen Fertilizer Affects the Severity of Anthracnose Crown Rot Disease of Greenhouse Grown Strawberries
Authors: Smith Barbara J.
Published: June 2009

The influence of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium on the severity of anthracnose crown rot was evaluated in three greenhouse studies. Strawberry plants were fertilized three times weekly with a modified Hoagland's Nutrient Solution containing the treatments and inoculated eight weeks after treatment applications began with a conidial suspension of the causal pathogen, Colletotrichum fragariae. Disease severity was rated 30 days later on a scale of 0 (no symptoms) to 6 (plant dead). In the first study, the effect of N, P, and K levels was evaluated using 16 treatments: eight N levels with either low P and K or high P and K. Disease severity ratings and percent foliar N increased as N level increased but were not influenced by the level of P and K. In two other experiments, seven N sources were each evaluated at three levels. Plants receiving 160 ppm N had higher disease severity ratings than plants receiving 0 or 40 ppm N. Among plants receiving 160 ppm N, those treated with Ca(NO3)2 had the least disease. When N fertilizer is applied to strawberry plants as Ca(NO3)2, anthracnose crown rot severity should be less severe than when N is applied in ammonium forms.

Accepted for publication 13 April 2009. Published 9 June 2009.
A New Canker Disease of Crabapple Trees Caused by Phacidiopycnis washingtonensis in Washington State
Authors: Xiao C. L. , Kim Y. K. , Boal R. J.
Published: June 2009

This is the first report of this fungus causing cankers and twig dieback on crabapple trees. Our findings indicate that canker symptoms on crabapple trees caused by P. washingtonensis are similar to those caused by S. pyriputrescens and that infected crabapple trees may serve as a source of P. washington ensis inoculum for infection of apple.

Accepted for publication 23 April 2009. Published 12 June 2009.
Evaluation of Selected Genotypes of Soybean for Resistance to Phakopsora pachyrhizi
Authors: Li S. , Young L. D.
Published: June 2009

Soybean rust, caused by Phakopsora pachyrhizi Syd. & P. Syd., is one of the most destructive diseases of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.] worldwide. To identify sources of resistance to domestic soybean rust fungus populations for plant breeding, our strategy has been to evaluate soybean lines that were previously identified as resistant to foreign isolates. In this study, two sets of plant introductions (PI) were evaluated using P. pachyrhizi urediniospores collected in Mississippi in 2006. The first set of PIs contained 10 lines previously identified as resistant in Paraguay, four PIs with known single genes for resistance to P. pachyrhizi, and Freedom and Williams 82 as susceptible checks. The second set included 17 lines that were selected based on information from Germplasm Resources Information Network (GRIN) and susceptible Williams 82. PI567102B was one of the most resistant lines to a Mississippi bulk isolate of P. pachyrhizi with the lowest severity rating, no sporulation, and red-brown lesion type.

Accepted for publication 25 April 2009. Published 15 June 2009.
Sequence and structural variation in a human genome uncovered by short-read, massively parallel ligation sequencing using two-base encoding
Authors: McKernan Kevin Judd , Peckham Heather E. , Costa Gina L. , McLaughlin Stephen F. , Fu Yutao , Tsung Eric F. , Clouser Christopher R. , Duncan Cisyla , Ichikawa Jeffrey K. , Lee Clarence C. , Zhang Zheng , Ranade Swati S. , Dimalanta Eileen T. , Hyland Fiona C. , Sokolsky Tanya D. , Zhang Lei , Sheridan Andrew , Fu Haoning , Hendrickson Cynthia L. , Li Bin , Kotler Lev , Stuart Jeremy R. , Malek Joel A. , Manning Jonathan M. , Antipova Alena A. , Perez Damon S. , Moore Michael P. , Hayashibara Kathleen C. , Lyons Michael R. , Beaudoin Robert E. , Coleman Brittany E. , Laptewicz Michael W. , Sannicandro Adam E. , Rhodes Michael D. , Gottimukkala Rajesh K. , Yang Shan , Bafna Vineet , Bashir Ali , MacBride Andrew , Alkan Can , Kidd Jeffrey M. , Eichler Evan E. , Reese Martin G. , De La Vega Francisco M. , Blanchard Alan P.
Published: June 2009

We describe the genome sequencing of an anonymous individual of African origin using a novel ligation-based sequencing assay that enables a unique form of error correction that improves the raw accuracy of the aligned reads to >99.9%, allowing us to accurately call SNPs with as few as two reads per allele. We collected several billion mate-paired reads yielding ∼18× haploid coverage of aligned sequence and close to 300× clone coverage. Over 98% of the reference genome is covered with at least one uniquely placed read, and 99.65% is spanned by at least one uniquely placed mate-paired clone. We identify over 3.8 million SNPs, 19% of which are novel. Mate-paired data are used to physically resolve haplotype phases of nearly two-thirds of the genotypes obtained and produce phased segments of up to 215 kb. We detect 226,529 intra-read indels, 5590 indels between mate-paired reads, 91 inversions, and four gene fusions. We use a novel approach for detecting indels between mate-paired reads that are smaller than the standard deviation of the insert size of the library and discover deletions in common with those detected with our intra-read approach. Dozens of mutations previously described in OMIM and hundreds of nonsynonymous single-nucleotide and structural variants in genes previously implicated in disease are identified in this individual. There is more genetic variation in the human genome still to be uncovered, and we provide guidance for future surveys in populations and cancer biopsies.
Positional conservation and amino acids shape the correct diagnosis and population frequencies of benign and damaging personal amino acid mutations
Authors: Kumar Sudhir , Suleski Michael P. , Markov Glenn J. , Lawrence Simon , Marco Antonio , Filipski Alan J.
Published: June 2009

As the cost of DNA sequencing drops, we are moving beyond one genome per species to one genome per individual to improve prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of disease by using personal genotypes. Computational methods are frequently applied to predict impairment of gene function by nonsynonymous mutations in individual genomes and single nucleotide polymorphisms (nSNPs) in populations. These computational tools are, however, known to fail 15%–40% of the time. We find that accurate discrimination between benign and deleterious mutations is strongly influenced by the long-term (among species) history of positions that harbor those mutations. Successful prediction of known disease-associated mutations (DAMs) is much higher for evolutionarily conserved positions and for original–mutant amino acid pairs that are rarely seen among species. Prediction accuracies for nSNPs show opposite patterns, forecasting impediments to building diagnostic tools aiming to simultaneously reduce both false-positive and false-negative errors. The relative allele frequencies of mutations diagnosed as benign and damaging are predicted by positional evolutionary rates. These allele frequencies are modulated by the relative preponderance of the mutant allele in the set of amino acids found at homologous sites in other species (evolutionarily permissible alleles [EPAs]). The nSNPs found in EPAs are biochemically less severe than those missing from EPAs across all allele frequency categories. Therefore, it is important to consider position evolutionary rates and EPAs when interpreting the consequences and population frequencies of human mutations. The impending sequencing of thousands of human and many more vertebrate genomes will lead to more accurate classifiers needed in real-world applications.
Remember/Know judgments in cognitive neuroscience: An illustration of the underrepresented point of view
Authors: Wixted John T.
Published: June 2009

The Remember/Know procedure is designed to easily measure two memory processes (recollection and familiarity) that are thought to serve as the basis for recognition memory decisions. This procedure is widely used in both neuroimaging studies and in studies involving amnesic patients in an effort to identify the brain structures that subserve these two memory processes. An alternative interpretation of this procedure, based on signal-detection theory, holds that Remember judgments and Know judgments are not “process pure” and are instead indicative of different degrees of memory strength (e.g., high degrees of recollection and familiarity vs. low degrees of recollection and familiarity, respectively). In the discipline of experimental psychology, the signal-detection view is widely regarded as a viable (or even preferable) alternative to the process-pure view. In the neuroscience literature, by contrast, the signal-detection interpretation is rarely given serious (or even any) consideration. Because conclusions about the neuroanatomical basis of recollection and familiarity are dependent on one specific interpretation of the Remember/Know procedure, ignoring a viable alternative interpretation may be counterproductive.
The Mechanism of Iron Homeostasis in the Unicellular Cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 and Its Relationship to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Shcolnick Sigal , Summerfield Tina C. , Reytman Lilia , Sherman Louis A. , Keren Nir
Published: June 2009

In this article, we demonstrate the connection between intracellular iron storage and oxidative stress response in cyanobacteria. Iron is essential for the survival of all organisms. However, the redox properties that make iron a valuable cofactor also lead to oxidative interactions, resulting in the formation of harmful radicals. Therefore, iron accumulation in cells should be tightly regulated, a process in which ferritin family proteins play an important role. Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 contains two ferritin-type storage complexes, bacterioferritin and MrgA. Previous studies demonstrated the role of bacterioferritin and MrgA in iron storage. In addition, MrgA was found to play a key role in oxidative stress response. Here, we examined the dual role of the ferritin family proteins using physiological and transcriptomic approaches. Microarray analysis of iron-limited wild-type and ΔmrgA cultures revealed a substantial up-regulation of oxidative stress-related genes in mutant cells. The PerR regulator was found to play an important role in that process. Furthermore, we were able to demonstrate the connection between internal iron quota, the presence of the two storage complexes, and the sensitivity to externally applied oxidative stress. These data suggest a pivotal role for the ferritin-type proteins of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 in coordinating iron homeostasis and in oxidative stress response. The combined action of the two complexes allows for the safe accumulation and release of iron from storage by minimizing damage resulting from interactions between reduced iron and the oxygen radicals that are produced in abundance by the photosynthetic apparatus.
Motives for accepting temporary employment: a typology
Authors: de Jong Jeroen , De Cuyper Nele , De Witte Hans , Silla Inmaculada , Bernhard‐Oettel Claudia
Published: June 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to offer a typology of temporary workers, based on their motives for accepting their work arrangement, which includes voluntary, involuntary and stepping‐stone motives, and relate this typology to various individual and work‐related variables.

Design/methodology/approach

Latent class analysis of 645 European workers was used to construct a typology of temporary workers. Variation of individual and work‐related variables between types of temporary workers was analyzed using ANOVA.

Findings

The analyses suggest that there are three types of workers: involuntary temporary workers highlight the involuntary motive and the stepping‐stone motive; the stepping‐stone type stresses the stepping‐stone motive only, and the non‐involuntary group disagrees with all three motives. Moreover, the groups differed significantly on important work‐related variables such as occupational position, tenure, employability, and work‐involvement. However, differences in individual variables were limited.

Research limitations/implications

The research puts forward a more complex typology of temporary workers than is usually suggested. Moreover, the study shows a non‐involuntary group for which temporary employment can become a trap, and hence these workers should be targeted by future policy and interventions.

Originality/value

The research offers a typology of temporary workers, which is founded on motivation theory, and existing research on motives for accepting temporary employment.
The future of business education
Authors: Banister Nigel
Published: June 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the future of business education, and in particular the MBA programs, in the current economic recession.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint looks at MBA programs and the role they play in today's turbulent economic climate.

Findings

The paper discusses the many different MBA programs at Manchester Business School, and the importance of business schools and their research.

Originality/value

Business schools can play an important role in terms of developing the models and the knowledge that can help executives better understand how the new economy evolves, how one can build up more sustainable financial structures and leadership styles, and be part of it. When the world changes dramatically as it does at the moment, innovative thinking may be needed, either to create new models or reaffirm forgotten ones. That is when businesses perceive the greatest benefits of academic advice. Business schools will be part of this equation, through teaching on their MBA courses and through their research.
Product data management practices in high‐tech companies
Authors: Kropsu‐Vehkapera Hanna , Haapasalo Harri , Harkonen Janne , Silvola Risto
Published: June 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide tangible examples of product data management (PDM) practices in large high‐tech companies, and to highlight current challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a qualitative interview study. First, a PDM system frame was defined to aid analyses. Second, an interview study was carried out in four companies to clarify the practical realisation of PDM, and the current challenges. The interviewees are experts in the field of PDM, currently holding significant related posts in their companies.

Findings

Overall, PDM activities are similar in all companies, however, there is some diversity in the realisation of these practices. PDM related challenges identified in this study are various, strongly influenced by company background and current organisational state.

Research limitations/implications

This paper includes interviews in four companies with different backgrounds, and a workshop, providing a good view on topical issues in the field of PDM. The obtained results could vary to some degree, should the sample size be larger, or especially should the products of the studied companies be less complex.

Practical implications

This paper provides managers and PDM system developers' with a better understanding over the issues that are affecting PDM solution development and on major system requirements, together with relevant insight on current challenges.

Originality/value

The existing literature is relatively scarce in describing the practicalities of PDM. The obtained results highlight the significance of company background influencing the selection of PDM solutions.
Analyzing financing strategy of public manufacturing companies
Authors: Shih Kuang‐Hsun , Fan Kang‐Chi
Published: June 2009

Purpose

This paper focuses on Taiwanese‐funded manufacturing companies operating in mainland China to analyze the factors affecting funding decision‐making before and after initial public offering (IPO).

Design/methodology/approach

This research investigates the impact and usefulness of various paths in the data system by using the structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine how the overall economy aspect and the basic aspect before IPO affect the initial returns (IRs) during the IPO and the debt ratio (DR) volatility after listing.

Findings

The results show that the IR, percent change of stock index, and exchange rate volatility before IPO are negative associated with the DR after IPO. The age of IPO companies is positive associated with the DR after IPO. This research also finds that the interest rate volatility before and after IPO have no direct effect upon companies' financial strategies after IPO, but may indirectly affect companies' financial strategies after IPO through the IRs, which conform with the market information feedback hypothesis proposed by van Bommel and Vermaelen.

Research limitations/implications

This paper investigates Taiwanese‐funded traditional manufacturing companies in mainland China. The paper obtains the sample from the Taiwan Stock Exchange from 1990 to 2005; electronic companies and samples lacking complete data are eliminated. Finally, the sample consists of 122 companies from traditional manufacturing sectors. The results may be applied to companies not from high‐tech sectors and emerging markets only. The incentive of debt financing would be lower for IPO companies with high IRs, percentage changes of stock index, and exchange rate fluctuation before listing. The paper suggests further research can investigate IRs for establishing an optimal capital structure to minimize financing costs and appreciate company value when choosing financing strategies. The new pubic companies will infer the IR and future capital structure through market interest before listing. It suggests future research may be directed at companies from financial and high‐tech sectors, and may apply the methodologies to developed economies.

Practical implications

It is suggested that IPO companies may closely examine to determine the performance of stock market, tendencies of exchange rate movement, as well as IRs in order to establish an optimal capital structure to minimize financing costs and appreciate company value. Besides, the new pubic companies will infer the IR and future capital structure through market interests before listing.

Originality/value

This research implicated that IPO companies should fully understand the stock market circumstance and exchange rate volatility tendencies. Then, the new pubic offering companies will be able to infer the IR and future capital structure through market interest to judge relative financing costs of manufacturing companies.
Cultural repercussions
Authors: Ellemose Gulev Rune
Published: June 2009

Purpose

This pilot study complements the ongoing culture‐management behaviour discourse by systematically investigating two novel dimensions through which culture can be measured and compared between four European Union (EU) countries. The purpose of this paper is to examine to what extent these cultural dimensions influence management behaviour in different countries.

Design/methodology/approach

The results pertaining to the cultural dimensions “Authority driven” and “Capitalistic driven” are derived from European values study data sets. The results pertaining to variances in management behaviour are derived from an empirical questionnaire‐based study. Spearman rank correlation fitted with confidence intervals yield several significant correlations which are discussed.

Findings

The results, based on country specific samples from Slovenia, Germany, Austria and Denmark, confirm that there exists considerable differences in cultural manifestations between the four countries and that these differences have an impact on management behaviour. Most notably, a strong positive correlation was found between the comparatively highly authoritative cultures of Slovenia and Germany to thwart decentralization. Further evidence was found that the highly subordinate driven cultures of Denmark and Austria tend to have a predilection towards two‐way vertical knowledge flows. Mixed results were found on capitalistic driven cultures' impact on control mechanisms and use of motivational factors.

Research limitations/implications

The results are limited to companies within the manufacturing industry of the four focus countries. It is, however, highly probable that the results lend themselves to companies in other countries with similar cultural manifestations, albeit this remains to be empirically proven.

Practical implications

The results provide a deeper understanding of why and how management models continue to differ throughout Europe. Managers as well as academics benefit from this discussion.

Originality/value

The cultural dimensions are innovative, and specifically designed to probe culture differences between elder EU countries and a transition economy. This digression from mainstream cultural manifestations provides a refreshing perspective on management implications and rejuvenates the culture debate.
Electronic information transfer in a transport chain
Authors: Inkinen Tommi , Tapaninen Ulla , Pulli Hennariina
Published: June 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to assess electronic information transfer in logistics organizations. The paper approaches information transfer as an elemental component of contemporary business to business (B2B) processes.

Design/methodology/approach

The empirical material concerns companies that together comprise a logistical chain. The paper uses interview data to show information exchange patterns within one particular logistics chain. The interviews were designed according to current topics in information management literature and analyzed with content analysis.

Findings

The results show the need to enhance information distribution in B2B operations. In addition, business to government operations rely, to a large extent, on a combination of paper and electronic information distribution. The government interface should also be recognized: customs and information exchange is a major time consumer in international transport.

Research limitations/implications

The empirical analysis of a logistic chain is not an easy task. This is due to the confidential nature of the business information that has to be acquired. Companies do not want to reveal too many details regarding their B2B relations: the interviewed companies gave information on data exchange on a general level only. For example, the goal of determining information content was affected by the reluctance of companies to discuss their business processes.

Originality/value

Three main components to a large extent determine the success of information and communication technologies implementation in the logistics business process. These are: reliability and interoperability that are achieved through standardization. This paper exemplifies these difficulties with empirical data from Finland. It also provides insight into how to carry out similar studies in different settings.
Response quality in consumer satisfaction research
Authors: Powers Thomas L. , Bendall Valentine Dawn
Published: June 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate the impact of consumer satisfaction survey respondents' demographics, satisfaction level and behavioral intentions on response rates and item completion rates.

Design/methodology/approach

A consumer satisfaction survey was sent to 2,000 individuals immediately after receipt of a service experience. The respondents to this initial survey were then mailed another survey one to two years following the service experience in order to identify individual consumers who could then be tracked to see who responded to the survey.

Findings

The findings indicate that age impacts survey response rates, intention to return impacts item completion rates, and satisfaction impacts both response and item completion rates.

Originality/value

Ensuring the accuracy of consumer satisfaction data is invaluable to an organization, as the findings are the basis from which many important decisions are made. Unfortunately, many consumers do not respond or may not completely fill out surveys, leaving the organization with imprecise results. To assess consumer perceptions properly, managers must be certain of accurate and unbiased results to be able to make key operational changes.
A multivariate segmentation model of senior consumers
Authors: Sudbury Lynn , Simcock Peter
Published: June 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to provide a multivariate segmentation model of the older consumer market, utilising variables based on the major dimensions of ageing, and behavioural variables previously shown to be pertinent to older adults in the gerontology and marketing literature.

Design/methodology/approach

A self‐complete questionnaire was administered to an age‐based quota sample of 650 older consumers (aged 50‐79) in the UK. Using the age and consumer behaviour variables, cluster analysis was performed. The clusters were then profiled using ANOVA, Kruskal‐Wallis and χ2 techniques, using those variables not included in the initial analysis.

Findings

The results confirmed that the older consumer market is not homogeneous. Rather, five distinct segments emerged which differ considerably from one another on a range of variables, including consumer behaviours.

Practical implications

The model has practical implications for targeting older consumers, and the paper provides guidelines on how to reach the different segments.

Originality/value

The paper, the result of the largest known empirical study into older consumers in the UK, provides a comprehensive segmentation model that overcomes many of the limitations of previous segmentation studies pertaining to older adults. It also fills a research gap noted by several previous researchers in that a variety of different types of age are utilised.
Distressing events and future purchase decisions: Jewish consumers and the Holocaust
Authors: Podoshen Jeffrey
Published: June 2009

Purpose

Understanding the role of ethnicity is key for marketers in multicultural nations such as the USA. Many ethnic groups retain a great deal of collective memories and experiences based on events in the past. Some of these experiences were stress‐inducing, if not horrific. This paper aims to look at the buying process of US Jewish consumers in relation to the purchase of German products, more specifically automobiles. Going beyond animosity, this research seeks to look at the variables of acculturation and closeness to the Holocaust as possible factors in the purchase decision.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilizes survey data obtained from over 400 respondents with analysis performed using regression, chi‐squared analysis, ANOVA and MANOVA.

Findings

The study shows that non‐Jewish Americans are more likely to purchase German automobiles than Jewish Americans. Acculturation and familial closeness to the Holocaust play a role in the purchase decision among Jewish Americans, while income does not.

Practical implications

The paper helps firms plan marketing strategy where they may have a history involved in war or similar actions.

Originality/value

Even though they have significant spending power, very little research has been done on American Jewish consumers. Additionally, as ethnically oriented violence still plagues the world, understanding the role distressing events play in the purchases of future generations is of paramount importance for global firms.
Integrating science into web design: consumer‐driven web site optimization
Authors: Gofman Alex , Moskowitz Howard R. , Mets Tõnis
Published: June 2009

Purpose

This paper sets out to explore different approaches to optimizing web sites based on consumer preferences, introducing the most advanced form of landing page optimization, multivariate landing page optimization, and its variations. The approach aims to allow for the testing of a large number of web page prototypes with consumers and find real optimal solutions on an aggregated, segmented and individual basis. The latter aims to paveing the road to individually optimized pages and one‐on‐one marketing in the near future.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach described employs a new variation of multivariate landing page optimization to improve customer experiences with web sites through optimal design of the landing pages. The approach uses consumer insights‐driven rule‐developing experimentation (RDE) introduced by the authors and developed in cooperation with Wharton School of Business.

Findings

A disciplined experimentation based on statistically sound experimental designs produces much better web page designs. The resulting web pages have increased consumer acceptability, improved conversion rates and general customer experience.

Practical implications

Consumer research should be a central part in planning how to optimize web site experiences. The steps of fitting it into the web design are shown. There are already several readily available tools for effecting this.

Originality/value

The approach could help marketers create better web sites that consumers like and which will help marketers to differentiate their respective web sites from their competitors.
“Going to the movies”: accounting and twentieth century cinema
Authors: Jeacle Ingrid
Published: June 2009

Purpose

Since its emergence in the early twentieth century, cinema has acquired a cultural identity. As purveyor of light entertainment, the local movie palace sold escapism at a cheap price. It also acted as an important social apparatus that regulated everyday mannerisms and appearance. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the box office ledger of a UK picture house and to consider the role of the accounting document as a medium through which both local and broader social and historical norms can be reflected.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper primarily employs archival sources. It examines the box office ledger of the Edinburgh Playhouse cinema for the period 1929‐1973. This ledger is held within the National Archive of Scotland. Secondary sources are also drawn upon to provide a social and historical context to the study.

Findings

The analysis of the box office ledger illustrates the potential value of an accounting document as a source of social history. Not only does this single ledger mirror the defining moments in British cinema history, it also helps inform the conception of what constitutes accounting, shapes the perception of contemporary strategic management accounting rhetoric, and further an appreciation of the relationship between accounting and everyday life.

Originality/value

The entertainment industry has been largely ignored within accounting scholarship. Such neglect is lamentable given both the scale of the industry and its impact on contemporary culture. This paper is an attempt to redress this neglect by examining one component of the entertainment business, cinema, through the medium of an accounting document.
The plenary lecture
Authors: Gray Rob
Published: June 2009

Purpose

This poem aims to present a reminder that the value of a presentation lies with the audience, not the speaker.

Design/methodology/approach

This is in the form of a fictional poem.

Findings

The poem reveals that hubris is alive, well and burgeoning in the academy.

Research limitations/implications

Self‐awareness and self‐criticism are to be encouraged.

Originality/value

Trite doggerel may still make a point and may even cause a smile.
New and improved poem
Authors: Lenthen Simon
Published: June 2009

Purpose

This poem aims to present a contemplation of the impact of marketing on creativity.

Design/methodology/approach

This takes the form of a fictional poem, polemic, irony (the last two words are ironic as well).

Findings

The poet considers the nature of creative communication; and finds that in order to reach a wide market the poet has to sacrifice self expression (you made me give the game away).

Originality/value

A unique contemplation on the nature of creativity and communication (but I am open to challenge).
Healthcare quality and moderators of patient satisfaction: testing for causality
Authors: Badri Masood A. , Attia Samaa , Ustadi Abdulla M.
Published: June 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a comprehensive structural equation based service quality and patient satisfaction model taking into account the patient's condition before and after discharge. The authors aim to test for causality in a sample of patients from United Arab Emirates public hospitals.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected using questionnaires completed by adults discharged (n=244) from UAE public hospitals. The proposed model consists of five main constructs. Three represent service quality: quality of care (four variables); process and administration (four variables) and information (four variables). There is also one construct that represents patient's status (two variables – health status before admission and after discharge). Finally, there is one construct that represents patient's satisfaction with care (two variables – general and relative satisfaction). Structural equation modeling and LISREL using maximum likelihood estimation was used to test hypothesized model(s)/parameters(s) derived deductively from the literature.

Findings

The structural equation modeling representation provides a comprehensive picture that allows healthcare constructs and patient satisfaction causality to be tested. The goodness‐of‐fit statistics supported the healthcare quality‐patient status‐satisfaction model.

Originality/value

The model has been found to capture attributes that characterize healthcare quality in a developing country and could represent other modern healthcare systems. Also, it can be used to evaluate other healthcare practices from patients' viewpoints. The study highlights the importance of healthcare quality as patient satisfaction predictors by capturing other effects such as patient status.
Orthopaedic procedure coding
Authors: Britton Edward , Chambers Charles , Ashmore Alexander
Published: June 2009

Purpose

Coding clinical work should allow accurate and precise methods of assessing individual or department activity. The NHS financial reforms have increased correct diagnostic coding importance by introducing “payment by results” so that funding is directly linked to patient activity. The aim of this study is to assess the accuracy of procedure codes (OPCS 4.4), and its effect on Healthcare Resource Group tariff codes that directly affect revenue.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of ten procedures from ten consultants were randomly selected over one month. Each consultant coded his or her own procedures. From these codes, Healthcare Resource Group tariff codes were assigned to each patient. These were compared with procedure and Healthcare Resource Group tariff codes generated by coding department staff.

Findings

Of 100 procedures, four were un‐coded by coding department staff. There was concordance in 35 per cent of cases. Coders only gave one code for each procedure, whereas 35 per cent of procedures coded by consultants were assigned multiple codes. This resulted in 27 per cent of cases generating a different Healthcare Resource Group tariff code. Of the cases, five resulted in a difference of £4,000 or more; however, the overall difference was a £3,367 revenue loss if coder's codes were used.

Research limitations/implications

Study numbers were limited to 100 with five cases showing excessive financial gain or loss significantly influencing the overall result.

Practical implications

Present procedure coding practice is inaccurate and results in Healthcare Resource Group tariff codes that do not accurately represent clinical activity and productivity. Under payment by results, this can result in a significant revenue loss and possibly ultimately future referrals. Therefore, coding practice needs to be improved as a matter of urgency. Arguably, this could be achieved by closer communication between coders and clinicians.

Originality/value

The paper identifies a flaw in the way clinical activity and productivity is assessed at present. This is fundamental to the process on which “payment by results” is based, and therefore must be addressed if trusts are to be financially successful.