bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Two duplicated P450 genes are associated with pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles funestus, a major malaria vector
Authors: Wondji Charles S. , Irving Helen , Morgan John , Lobo Neil F. , Collins Frank H. , Hunt Richard H. , Coetzee Maureen , Hemingway Janet , Ranson Hilary
Published: February 2009

Pyrethroid resistance in Anopheles funestus is a potential obstacle to malaria control in Africa. Tools are needed to detect resistance in field populations. We have been using a positional cloning approach to identify the major genes conferring pyrethroid resistance in this vector. A quantitative trait locus (QTL) named rp1 explains 87% of the genetic variance in pyrethroid susceptibility in two families from reciprocal crosses between susceptible and resistant strains. Two additional QTLs of minor effect, rp2 and rp3, were also detected. We sequenced a 120-kb BAC clone spanning the rp1 QTL and identified 14 protein-coding genes and one putative pseudogene. Ten of the 14 genes encoded cytochrome P450s, and expression analysis indicated that four of these P450s were differentially expressed between susceptible and resistant strains. Furthermore, two of these genes, CYP6P9 and CYP6P4, which are 25 and 51 times overexpressed in resistant females, are tandemly duplicated in the BAC clone as well as in laboratory and field samples, suggesting that P450 gene duplication could contribute to pyrethroid resistance in An. funestus. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified within CYP6P9 and CYP6P4, and genotyping of the progeny of the genetic crosses revealed a maximum penetrance value f2 = 1, confirming that these SNPs are valid resistance markers in the laboratory strains. This serves as proof of principle that a DNA-based diagnostic test could be designed to trace metabolic resistance in field populations. This will be a major advance for insecticide resistance management in malaria vectors, which requires the early detection of resistance alleles.
β-Adrenergic facilitation of synaptic plasticity in the rat basolateral amygdala in vitro is gradually reversed by corticosterone
Authors: Pu Zhenwei , Krugers Harm J. , Joëls Marian
Published: February 2009

The rat basolateral amygdala is important for emotional learning; this is modulated by noradrenaline and corticosterone. We report that the β-adrenergic agonist isoproterenol markedly enhances synaptic plasticity induced in the basolateral amygdala by a weak stimulation paradigm but is ineffective with stronger protocols. Simultaneous application of corticosterone gradually reversed the facilitatory effect of isoproterenol. When corticosterone was briefly applied several hours prior to isoproterenol, facilitatory effects of the β-agonist were entirely suppressed. This suggests that in the basolateral amygdala, β-adrenergic influences promote synaptic plasticity; this is gradually normalized by corticosterone, preventing the network from overshooting.
The Control of Autumn Senescence in European Aspen
Authors: Fracheboud Yvan , Luquez Virginia , Björkén Lars , Sjödin Andreas , Tuominen Hannele , Jansson Stefan
Published: February 2009

The initiation, progression, and natural variation of autumn senescence in European aspen (Populus tremula) was investigated by monitoring chlorophyll degradation in (1) trees growing in natural stands and (2) cloned trees growing in a greenhouse under various light regimes. The main trigger for the initiation of autumn senescence in aspen is the shortening photoperiod, but there was a large degree of variation in the onset of senescence, both within local populations and among trees originating from different populations, where it correlated with the latitude of their respective origins. The variation for onset of senescence with a population was much larger than the variation of bud set. Once started, autumn senescence was accelerated by low temperature and longer nights, and clones that started to senescence late had a faster senescence. Bud set and autumn senescence appeared to be under the control of two independent critical photoperiods, but senescence could not be initiated until a certain time after bud set, suggesting that bud set and growth arrest are important for the trees to acquire competence to respond to the photoperiodic trigger to undergo autumn senescence. A timetable of events related to bud set and autumn senescence is presented.
Constraints and restraints in crystal structure analysis
Authors: Immirzi Attilio
Published: February 2009

The widely used restraint-based approach to structural analysis using diffraction data is critiqued. The convenience of using rigid constraints, through the use of internal coordinates, is discussed.
Small-angle neutron scattering study of the miscibility of metallocene-catalyzed octene linear low-density polyethylene and low-density polyethylene blends
Authors: Shin Tae Joo , Lee Byeongdu , Lee Jinwon , Jin Sangwoo , Sung Baik Shuk , Han Young Soo , Lee Chang-Hee , Stein Richard S. , Ree Moonhor
Published: February 2009

Small-angle neutron scattering (SANS) analysis was performed to investigate the miscibility of blends of metallocene-catalyzed octene linear low-density polyethylene (octene-mLLDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The quantitative SANS analysis found that the blends are miscible in both the melt and the quenched states. Moreover, this analysis confirmed that the radii of gyration of octene-mLLDPE(D) and LDPE(H) remain unchanged in the quenched state and that the two polymer components cocrystallizeviafast crystallization from the melt state.
Lupulin structures revisited
Authors: Molins Elies , Coll Josep
Published: February 2009

The crystal structures of lupulin A, C30H46O11, and lupulin D, C25H38O8, should both display the neoclerodane skeleton, but the deposited atomic coordinates of lupulin D correspond to the inverted enantiomer.
3-Oxoandrosta-4,6-dien-17β-yl 2-methyl-1H-imidazole-1-carboxylate and 3-oxo-5α-androst-17β-yl 2-methyl-1H-imidazole-1-carboxylate: C—H...π and π–π intermolecular interactions
Authors: Ramos Silva Manuela , Moreira Vânia M. , Cardoso Cláudia , Matos Beja Ana , Salvador Jorge A. R.
Published: February 2009

The title compounds, C24H30N2O3, (I), and C24H34N2O3, (II), both contain an androstane backbone and a 2-methylimidazole-1-carboxylate moiety at the 17-position. Compound (I) contains two symmetry-independent molecules (denoted 1 and 2), while compound (II) contains just one molecule in the asymmetric unit. The C—C—O—C torsion angle that reflects the twisting of the 2-methylimidazole-1-carboxylate moiety from the mean steroid plane is 143.1 (2)° for molecule 1 of (I), 73.1 (3)° for molecule 2 of (I) and 86.63 (17)° for (II). The significance of this study lies in its observation of significant differences in both molecular conformation and supramolecular aggregation between the molecules of the title compounds. The solid-state conformations compared with those obtained theoretically fromab initiomethods for the isolated molecules show large differences, especially in the orientation of the methylimidazole substituent.
New thoughts on library outreach to international students
Authors: Ye Yunshan
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an introduction to three articles from Reference Services Review on the theme of library outreach to international students. It aims to give a summary overview of the current research on international students and library outreach and to introduce and contextualize the three articles.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper frames the three articles and places them in the context of the exhaustive literature on the topic.

Findings

International students are not all alike. Grouping all of these students together under the umbrella term of “international student” contributes little, if at all, to the understanding of their real needs and problems.

Practical implications

This paper suggests that there are still areas for further exploration on the topic of international students and library outreach.

Originality/value

This paper argues with the oversimplified and generalized approach to international students, and suggests that it is not the most useful way to assist individual students.
Forging inroads between libraries and academic, multicultural and student services
Authors: Love Emily , Edwards Margaret B.
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the prospects and benefits of collaborating with student services organizations in order to integrate information literacy and instruction services into pre‐existing academic programs and services.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with a literature review of recent library collaborations with student services areas such as international student centers, study abroad, multicultural student services, career services and writing centers, and then outlines a general rubric employed at the University of Illinois used to develop, implement and assess library partnerships with these student services units.

Findings

A current literature review reveals a new and often overlooked information literacy niche that exists within the student services realm. These collaborations are generally welcomed by the partners, heighten students' access to information, and incorporate information literacy objectives into students' lives beyond the classroom.

Practical implications

This paper highlights an often overlooked area in student services units for collaboration on information literacy programming and the number of positive associated outcomes.

Originality/value

This paper describes a new and unique approach to connecting students with the library's services beyond the traditional faculty‐based approach.
The expanding library wall
Authors: Puente Mark A. , Gray LaVerne , Agnew Shantel
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the process and results of a research project aimed at discovering the library use patterns and perceptions of library services of people from traditionally underrepresented ethnic minority groups. The main goal of the study was to identify opportunities for collaboration between the university library and institutional entities that provide services to those groups.

Design/methodology/approach

An online survey was utilized to gather data from students, faculty, and staff from ethnic minority groups. Electronic distribution of the instrument was augmented by in‐person marketing strategies. Findings are reported in a series of tables as well as a narrative summarizing input from respondents.

Findings

The results indicate that there are misconceptions about how and why students from underrepresented groups utilize library services at the University of Tennessee. The majority of patrons expressed little difficulty finding resources and information was positive and affirming of institutional efforts to improve services.

Research limitations/implications

The research sample primarily consisted of students, faculty, and staff affiliated with multicultural or international student centers on the campus of the University of Tennessee, or academic programs with a related focus. Results may be generalized for institutions with similar outreach infrastructures.

Practical implications

The results have been used to inform decisions regarding library outreach and services to multicultural/international constituencies on campus.

Originality/value

The paper confirms the applicability of the instrument designed by Scott Walter et al., with adjustments to reflect local practice and policy. Analysis of information seeking behaviors of minority groups can help inform the development of programs and services to this constituency and identify possible collaborations between the university library and the multicultural/international student centers on campus.
Academic librarian and English composition instructor collaboration
Authors: Mounce Michael
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an annotated bibliography of resources on the topic of academic librarians collaborating with English composition faculty and instructors for the implementation of information literacy instruction into English composition courses.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to find relevant resources for the bibliography, the author consulted a library catalog, the WorldCat database, to find books not available in the local library, and databases to find journal articles. Databases consulted include a general database, an information science‐related database, and a library and information science‐related database.

Findings

Whenever librarians collaborate with English composition faculty for information literacy, students' information literacy skills are improved.

Research limitations/implications

This bibliography is limited to the time period 1998‐2007. Articles and books published before 1998 are not included. Also, popular magazines articles and newspapers articles are not included.

Practical implications

This paper will be helpful to academic librarians who want to collaborate with English composition faculty members for information literacy instruction. Several examples of this type of collaboration are provided.

Originality/value

This paper is a useful contribution on this topic to the library literature. Particularly, it contributes to the library literature pertaining to information literacy. Also, a database search indicates that this paper is the first annotated bibliography on its topic.
Using Meebo's embedded IM for academic reference services
Authors: Breitbach William , Mallard Matthew , Sage Robert
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the successful implementation of an embedded instant messaging (IM) reference service using Meebo. The article provides data to legitimize the development of such services and demonstrates a successful model.

Design/methodology/approach

A pilot study to assess the usefulness and functionality of Meebo's embedded IM as a reference service tool was conducted. Detailed data on all reference transactions were collected and analyzed for comparative purposes. Also included in the study is a survey of librarians and staff involved in providing the service.

Findings

Adding the embedded Meebo chat widget increased the use of synchronous virtual reference services by 49 percent. Embedded IM reference transactions take significantly less time to answer than QuestionPoint transactions. Higher level reference questions (research questions) take nearly the same amount of time to answer over IM as they do in person.

Research limitations/implications

Further research to determine why IM reference transactions are significantly shorter than those conducted with QuestionPoint is needed. A limitation of the current study is that there was no patron feedback collected.

Practical implications

The data collected suggest that embedded IM is a viable alternative and perhaps a better alternative to other vendor‐based synchronous chat reference systems. With very low capital and personnel investment, a successful synchronous and local IM reference service can be launched. Institutions that have not begun to offer synchronous virtual reference services have a free and viable option to do so.

Originality/value

Embedded IM is a relatively new technology. Although several libraries are using embedded IM, there are no published articles analyzing its use and comparing it to other virtual reference services.
Where have all the government documents librarians gone?
Authors: Mack Thura , Prescod Janette
Published: February 2009

Purpose

Effectively accessing government documents is often a challenge for frontline reference staff working in a merged public service environment. The purpose of this paper is to build a case for establishing sustainable information literacy that incorporates government publications information into research and reference services.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper describes the reasons for, and challenges of, incorporating government documents training for reference staff, and suggests suitable strategies and techniques.

Findings

Keeping up with knowledge in related fields other than a chosen specialty is a challenge facing librarians today, but knowing how to find print and online government resources is critical for reference desk staff to help meet the information needs of the public. A variety of techniques and strategies may be employed to help mine these important resources. Web 2.0 tools and internet‐based tutorials on government publications may be used to facilitate training.

Practical implications

Staff are encouraged to develop collaborative training relationships to motivate, teach, facilitate, and equip others for self‐sufficiency and competency.

Originality/value

The paper shows how reference staff knowledge of government publications can be enhanced through training with both traditional and new technologies. Training can be accomplished through self‐motivation and partnering and need not be always formal.
Sufism: a guide to essential reference resources
Authors: Francesconi Danilo
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to give a starting point to non‐specialists to understand Sufism by introducing the essential works about this broad subject.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies and lists bibliographies, indexes, encyclopedias, dictionaries, and handbooks about Sufism.

Findings

Interest in Sufism is growing, and references to books, articles, essays, and even theses and dissertations under the subject headings Sufism and Sufis are now considerable. Resources are scattered, posing challenges to students and scholars, as well as librarians. Additionally, there is a deficiency of specialized databases, bibliographies, and indexes related to Sufism.

Originality/value

To date, this is the only guide of this kind.
Key issues surrounding virtual chat reference model
Authors: Wan Gang (Gary) , Clark Dennis , Fullerton John , Macmillan Gail , Reddy Deva E. , Stephens Jane , Xiao Daniel
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the use of co‐browse in live chat, customers' question types, referral to subject experts, and patrons' usage patterns as experienced in the virtual reference (VR) chat reference services at Texas A&M University Libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Chat transcripts from 2005 to 2007 were sampled and analyzed by peer reviewers. Statistical data in that period were also examined. A set of methods and a pilot study were created to define the measurement components such as question types, expert handling, and co‐browsing.

Findings

Co‐browsing is used in 38 percent of the sampled chat sessions. The Texas A&M University live chat service group considers co‐browsing a useful feature. Of questions received on VR, 84 percent are reference questions. Only 8.7 percent of the total questions or 10 percent of the reference questions need to be answered by subject experts. The use of VR increases dramatically in the past two years at the Texas A&M University. The findings also reveal users' logon patterns over weekdays and weekends.

Originality/value

The study contributes and advances understanding in the role VR plays in a large academic library and the role co‐browsing plays in VR services. The study also provides a comprehensive method for transcript and usage data analysis. It is believed that a similar methodology may be replicated elsewhere by other institutions engaging similar services or evaluation.
Towards the development of a desktop virtual reality‐based system for modular fixture configuration design
Authors: Gaoliang Peng , Jun Gao , Xu He
Published: February 2009

Purpose

Modular fixture configuration design is a complicated task requiring both intensive knowledge and experience. Automated or semi‐automated computer‐aided modular fixture systems based on computer‐aided design packages do not appear to have made a significant impact within the manufacturing industry. Modular fixture designers still prefer traditional systems such as paper or physical model; as such models provide a more intuitive interaction and immediate feedback. The objective of the paper is to present an application of the desktop virtual reality (VR) to develop an interactive modular fixture assembly design system.

Design/methodology/approach

Desktop‐based friendly interface is designed and the low‐system requirement key techniques, namely assembly modeling and collision detection approach, to make proposed system run smoothly on a desktop PC, are presented.

Findings

The paper finds that the proposed system is an efficient tool for modular fixture configuration design.

Practical implications

The proposed system is a portable and affordable solution for modular fixture design.

Originality/value

A low‐cost VR application for modular fixture configuration design is presented.
Automation of a complex transfer operation using a polar manipulator
Authors: Moradi Dalvand Mohsen
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The objective of this paper included developing a polar robot (SPBot) for rotating and transferring car engine block (CEB) around and along two different axes in a confined workspace envelope.

Design/methodology/approach

The complex transfer operations of the CEB requires sweeping complete surface of the half sphere, and thus a polar robot is best suited to such a task in a confined space. Considering the limited space for this operation, a specially designed manipulator is built comprising 2 degrees of freedom driven by electrical servo motors. Also due to the special form of CEB, an especially designed pneumatic gripper is developed. Kinematics models, static and dynamic equations, together with trajectory planning for such a manipulator are described.

Findings

The high‐speed complex transfer in a limited environment is successfully implemented.

Originality/value

The developed polar robot provides for complex transfer operations that significantly increases the speed of the product line and thus reducing the cycle time from 60 s using manpower to just 20 s using the robot.
Why thought leadership is more important than ever
Authors: Gibbins‐Klein Mindy
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce executives to the idea of creating a writing and publishing strategy as part of their public relations (PR) and profile building

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a perspective on creating an executive writing and publishing strategy – why and how to do it.

Findings

The paper reveals that business leaders who write and publish have a higher profile and hence more business opportunities than their competitors

Practical implications

The practical implications are how to view writing and publishing as part of the marketing mix; how to organize one's ideas into a coherent plan; and how to maximize the return on investment of time and effort.

Originality/value

This is paper is based on a proven methodology (ten years in practice, 100+ books and articles produced by business leaders). In a competitive market, executives have a hard enough time keeping their eye on the business and the bottom line. In times of stress, many people forget about marketing and strategic marketing of the company's top executives is rarely done. It is a well known fact that people buy from people, and top executives are starting to realize the importance of being seen and heard, and sharing personal views on key issues. A good writing and publishing strategy is the most effective way to do this and leading writing and publishing strategist Mindy Gibbins‐Klein shares her best ideas in this timely article.
Interview with Rowan Gibson
Authors: by Ruth Young Interview
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present and an interview with Rowan Gibson, a global business strategist, bestselling author and an expert on radical innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent interviewer.

Findings

Rowan Gibson teaches some of the world's largest and most successful organizations how to seize new growth opportunities, create new markets and even transform industries by recalibrating their whole organizational system around the paradigm of innovation..

Originality/value

The interview provides insights into how to build and sustain a company‐wide innovation capability.
Franchisee personality
Authors: Weaven Scott , Grace Debra , Manning Mark
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to make the first attempt to examine franchisee personality within the context of alternative franchisee ownership structures (single unit versus multiple unit ownership) and service type (standardised versus customised).

Design/methodology/approach

A self‐report mail survey was used in the paper to collect data from a random sample of 363 franchisees drawn from 83 franchise groups. Personality was represented by the Big‐Five personality traits (IPIP‐B5 scales), two dimensions of Empathy (IRI scales of empathic perspective taking and empathic concern) and Emotional Intelligence (EIS). Two separate between‐subjects MANOVAs were conducted for each of the independent variables.

Findings

Significant differences were found between franchisee ownership groups on four personality measures (conscientiousness, emotional stability, empathic perspective taking and emotional intelligence) and service type groups on two measures (extraversion and empathic perspective taking). Theoretical and practical implications of these results are discussed.

Research limitation/implications

Future research should investigate the personality of franchisors and different types of franchisees within the context of organisational outcomes such as franchisee performance, commitment, organisational learning and intention to remain and grow within the network (within different international settings).

Originality/value

This paper supplements the channels literature by using standard personality measures to differentiate franchisees that are likely to engage in different behaviours within franchise systems.
The effects of relationship quality on export performance
Authors: Ural Tulin
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to empirically examine the effects of relationship quality between exporter and importer on export performance in Turkish firms, and further, how small and medium‐sized exporting firms are segmented based on quality of their relationship with importers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper includes Structural Equation Modeling and Cluster Analysis.

Findings

The findings demonstrate that there is the positive impact of: information sharing on financial export performance and satisfaction with the export venture; long‐term orientation on financial export performance, strategic export performance and satisfaction with the export venture; and satisfaction with the relationship on financial performance, strategic performance and satisfaction with export venture. Three segments of firm are profiled such as “long‐term thinkers”, “dissatisfactioners” and “information keepers”.

Research limitations/implications

The data incorporate only the view of one player (the exporter) around the exporter‐importer relationship and do not take into account views from the other side of the dyad. However, since this study focused on first, the measuring relationship quality from the exporter's perspective and, second, the formation of exporter relationships as perceived by the exporter, ideal participants to be examined in this study are exporters. Future researches should be encouraged to test similar hypotheses in other international settings and compare their findings.

Practical implications

Information exchange between exporter and importer fosters the export performance of small and medium sized firms. If exporters openly enter into contact with importers and share confidential information and strategic issues, satisfaction with export venture will be increased. The long run relationships will probably involve cooperation, goal sharing and risk sharing. Export managers should work by cooperative manner, avoid the short‐term alternatives instead of long‐term benefits and not act opportunistically. Relational satisfaction impacts to the financial and strategic export performances, and satisfaction with the export venture. When an exporter meets the expectations of importer based on evaluations of the tangible product or non‐product related attributes such as delivery, service, or relational investments, his/her export performance will improve.

Originality/value

This study can increase exporting firms' awareness and understanding about relationship quality in handling international operations. Additionally, this study differs from similar studies, which are related to relationships quality, by suggesting a classification of firms based on relational quality dimensions. Therefore, it provides more specific knowledge.
Consumer evaluation of unbranded and unlabelled food products
Authors: Sogn‐Grundvåg Geir , Østli Jens
Published: February 2009

Purpose

This study sets out to explore how consumers evaluate unbranded and unlabelled food products and to what extent they are able to select the products with the highest potential to meet their expectations regarding eating quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The study focused on Portuguese consumers and their purchase of bacalhau, i.e. salted and dried cod, which is sold unpacked, unbranded and unlabelled in supermarkets. The collection of data encompassed observations of shoppers in supermarkets, individual interviews and focus groups with consumers, and a consumer panel that conducted quality assessments and rankings of nine different bacalhaus and subsequent taste assessments of the same products following desalting and cooking.

Findings

Results indicate that Portuguese consumers – in spite of substantial experience with buying, preparing and consuming bacalhau – are uncertain in their in‐store quality assessment. Shoppers used multiple criteria to assess the quality of the bacalhau, such as the appearance and dryness of the product. Some rather curious quality criteria that were not related to “objective” product quality were also discerned. Touching the dried and salted cod trying to “feel” the quality was common. Some even broke the fish tail to assess the dryness. Findings from the consumer panel showed large discrepancies between how the same products were assessed before and after desalting and cooking.

Research limitations/implications

The study is limited to one food product and one national market. Marketing implications, such as focus on packaging, quality labelling, and branding are discussed, as well as implications for future research.

Originality/value

The paper shows that although unlabelled and unbranded food products are common, relatively little research addressing how consumers assess such products in a wider sense, including which strategies consumers apply and to what extent they are able to select products that meet or exceed their expectations regarding eating quality, has been conducted. The paper also addresses the role cultural rules and rituals may play in the assessment of traditional food products such as bacalhau.
“A witches' dance of numbers”
Authors: Evans Lisa
Published: February 2009

Purpose

This paper's purpose is to show how literary texts can be used as a source for gaining insights into social practices, including accounting. It aims to deepen our understanding of such social practices in their cultural, social, economic and political contexts by examining portrayals of business and accounting transactions and of reflections of social and economic concerns in two German novels set during a time of economic and political crisis, namely the Weimar Republic's hyperinflation period.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses, against the historical, social and economic backgrounds of the inflation period, the novels' authors' social and political perspectives as reflected in the novels; the literary devices employed; the way in which the description of business and accounting matters aids our understanding of everyday inflation period transactions and underlying economic and social concerns; and the links made between accounting/business, money and inflation on the one hand, and morality and rationality on the other hand.

Findings

The paper finds that in this exceptional economic situation, the relationship between accounting and morality as explored by Maltby is reversed. The portrayal of (often unusual and creative) economic transactions is used to illustrate the lack of economic, legal and moral certainty experienced by individuals and to evoke and critique the damage caused by the hyperinflation on German society and on human relationships, including the commoditisation of all aspects of life and the resulting moral decline.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the literature exploring the role of representations of business/accounting and finance in narrative fiction. The novels examined here provide an alternative means for observing, interpreting and critiquing social phenomena, specifically in a setting where financial considerations dominate human interaction and social relationships.
Exploring auditor independence: an interpretive approach
Authors: Hudaib Mohammad , Haniffa Roszaini
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the construction of the meanings of auditor independence (AI) in an oil‐rich autocratic state with an ideology straddling liberal market capitalism and Shari'ah (Islamic teachings).

Design/methodology/approach

The concept of AI was explored using Blumer's interactionist approach or the Chicago School of Symbolic Interactionism (CSSI). Multiple methods were adopted in collecting and interpreting data: document analysis, personal professional experience, observation and interviews with auditors in two audit firms in Saudi Arabia.

Findings

Using discourse analysis, the paper demonstrates that auditors construct the meanings of independence in appearance and in fact through their social interactions at three levels: micro (personal self‐reflexivity through ethical reasoning and reputation of individual auditor); meso (organisational culture through range of commercial activities and image management) and macro (through political, de jure, and socio‐economic structure).

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the auditing literature by providing insights into the construction of the meaning of AI in a context different from the dominant Anglo‐American discourse, as well as transition and emerging economies discourse. The paper also contributes to the CSSI research methodology by extending it to consider interactions not only within an organisational context, but also within the context of a country.
Development and empirical exploration of an extended model of intra‐group conflict
Authors: Hjertø Kjell B. , Kuvaas Bård
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to develop and empirically explore a model of four intra‐group conflict types (the 4IC model), consisting of an emotional person, a cognitive task, an emotional task, and a cognitive person conflict. The first two conflict types are similar to existing conceptualizations, whereas the latter two represent new dimensions of group conflict.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a heuristic distinction between cognition and emotion, the four conflict types are defined, and scales for measuring them are developed. The psychometric and statistical properties of the scales were analyzed by data collected from four company samples and two student samples (n=208). The validity of the constructs was evaluated by comparing them with similar constructs, in particular, the Intra‐group Conflict Scale (ICS), developed.

Findings

A theory‐driven exploratory factor analysis elicited a 19‐item structure of four reliable factors, representing the four conflict types. A confirmatory factor analysis demonstrated satisfactory properties of the data matrix compared with the proposed model. Furthermore, a refined 12‐item scale was developed to consider the validity of the 4IC, with reasonably satisfactory findings.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations concerning sample size, wording of items, the demarcation between conflict types and conflict approaches, and the robustness of the constructs are discussed. It is suggested that researchers may find the model useful for future studies of conflict in groups.

Practical implications

The model may be of assistance in handling conflicts in organizations. In particular, managers and employees may become aware that emotional conflicts are not always associated with relational or person‐oriented issues; they may as well concern task‐oriented issues. Furthermore, cognitive conflicts do not always have to be task‐oriented; they may also concern relational or person‐oriented issues. The introduction of the emotional task‐oriented and the cognitive person‐oriented conflict types may thus extend the conflict management toolbox for managers and employees.

Originality/value

The results of the study challenge common use of emotional and relationship/person conflicts as interchangeable conflict types, and cognitive and task conflict as interchangeable conflict types. Accordingly, the study suggests new ways to understand conflicts in groups.
Making governance work in academia
Authors: Hogler Raymond , Gross Michael A. , Byrne Zinta S.
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the importance of dispute systems for academic employees and to propose a procedure of voluntary binding arbitration, which would improve governance, promote organizational justice, and reduce litigation.

Design/methodology/approach

It is argued that the rationale for arbitration in the educational sphere is even more compelling than in the nonunion industrial workplace because higher education is premised on the concept of shared governance between faculty and administrators. Colleges and universities confront an environment of declining resources, escalating costs, and a consumerist view of education where relations between members of the educational community increasingly resemble market transactions rather than cooperative endeavors.

Findings

Given those trends, faculty would benefit from a system of conflict resolution that serves to safeguard professional standards, ensure organizational justice, and provide an effective workplace voice.

Research limitations/implications

As a research agenda, future studies could examine these assumptions by empirically testing and evaluating the contribution and benefit of arbitration in higher education.

Practical implications

Binding arbitration offers a viable means of protecting the interests of faculty and institutions.

Originality/value

This paper offers a case for implementing organizational justice principles in higher education and will be of interest to those in that field.
How do we approach accountability with our constituency?
Authors: Medina Francisco J. , Povedano Amapola , Martinez Ines , Munduate Lourdes
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The main aim of this study is to analyze the perception of influence tactics used by male and female representatives in order to gain the commitment of their constituencies when accounting for the outcomes reached in a collective bargaining round.

Design/methodology/approach

An experimental design was used to manipulate agreement – favorable vs unfavorable – using collective bargaining scenarios, and measurements were made of subjects' perceptions of the use of hard and soft influence tactics and constituency commitment. Participants stated which influence tactics they would use to inform their constituents about a positive or negative agreement, and the level of commitment they would expect from their constituency.

Findings

Results show that hard tactics are perceived as being more effective than soft tactics for enhancing constituency commitment to unfavorable results. Women perceive that they use more soft tactics than men to announce unfavorable agreements, while men perceive that they use more soft tactics than women to announce favorable agreements between parties. Overall, the perception of influence exercised over the constituency is strongly affected by gender, along the lines that men tend to explain and justify their successes and not their failures, while women tend to justify their failures and not their successes.

Research limitations/implications

As the evidence in this study came from self‐report measures, future studies should corroborate findings by observing representative behavior.

Practical implications

The findings have important implications for training programs of representatives in collective bargaining, particularly in the exercise of influence at the second negotiation round.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates that gender is an important moderator in representative‐constituency negotiation.
Open access and institutional repositories in Greece: progress so far
Authors: Chantavaridou Elisavet
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the current situation regarding open access and institutional repositories (IRs) in Greece.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper reports on the development of IRs in Greece and discusses their content and the various access restrictions that apply to content. A questionnaire survey was used to identify current and future steps regarding open access from the IR managers' and library directors' perspective.

Findings

The paper finds that Greek IRs using DSpace and CDS Invenio software have been developed by libraries of academic institutions. The Berlin Declaration on open access has been signed by two academic institutions and one research institution, while another university will bring the matter to the Senate. Metadata harvesting is one point that all respondents agreed on, although it seems that a national harvesting service will not be established in the near future. Furthermore, content availability at the moment seems to be hindered by fear of copyright infringement rather than financial charges, at least for ETDs.

Research limitations/implications

Further research should be conducted in order to identify the rate of deposited published peer‐reviewed research in IRs. Furthermore, a broader survey could show the thoughts and future plans of the total of Greek IRs, not just those using OAI‐PMH or those with mixed content (gray literature and published research). Possible research topics could be the interoperability of IRs in order to build a national harvesting service and the access restrictions that are available for authors in each IR.

Originality/value

This paper is addressed to those wishing to be informed of the latest developments regarding IRs and open access in Greece. It also provides a brief insight into the views of leading IR managers and library directors.
Scholarly communication initiatives at Georgetown University: lessons learned
Authors: Bakker Theodora A. , Banks Marcus A.
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The paper aims to describe the launching of Georgetown University's Scholarly Communication Symposium Series in 2003, and ongoing efforts to raise faculty and librarian awareness of changes in the scholarly communication landscape.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes the form of a case study.

Findings

Raising awareness about the effects of the “serials crisis” on academic libraries is challenging, because faculty members do not pay subscription costs directly. It remains difficult to encourage researchers to publish in open access journals, which often do not have the prestige of more established, subscription‐based journals. In the face of these challenges, Georgetown's Scholarly Communication Symposium Series has proven to be an enduring vehicle for informing faculty members of the changing landscape in scholarly communications. Targeted marketing (contextualized with reference to high profile developments and projects) and the engaging nature of the events have been critical to success. The broad, high level campus representation among the planning group has also been essential.

Originality/value

The paper allows readers wishing to develop or revise their scholarly communications initiatives to draw on Georgetown's experience.
Japan: the banks are back! Or are they?
Authors: Hall Maximilian J.B.
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how Japanese bank “performance” has improved markedly since fiscal 2003 but to caution against over‐optimism.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodological approach adopted involves using aggregate balance sheet data dating from around 1990 to identify the trends in industry performance with respect to profitability, asset quality and capital adequacy.

Findings

The bursting of the asset price bubble in the early 1990s clearly had a major adverse impact on “performance”, as measured by the above‐mentioned indicators, but, after fiscal 1992, the industry's fortunes began to improve. Problems on each front, however, remain to be resolved.

Practical implications

By identifying the main problems still besetting the Japanese banks, both the industry and their supervisors are given advice as to which areas they need to focus on to improve future bank performance.

Originality/value

The paper clearly explains the nature of, and reasons for, the recent improvement in Japanese bank performance whilst highlighting the areas on which they still have to focus if they are to regain their former glory within the international banking community. It should be of interest to all serious scholars of the Japanese banking system and interested commentators alike.
A case study of functional benchmarking as a source of knowledge for car parking strategies
Authors: Straker Ian , Ison Stephen , Humphreys Ian , Francis Graham
Published: February 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the process benefits and findings of a functional benchmarking exercise. It explores the issues surrounding the potential introduction of a direct employee car parking financial incentive or disincentive measure at an airport, drawing on best practice from specific non‐airport organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study approach is taken in which three different organisations are considered from a functional benchmarking perspective.

Findings

There are direct findings in terms of how to develop employee parking strategies/policies.

Research limitations/implications

This paper adds to the practical literature on functional benchmarking by presenting evidence from a benchmarking exercise of three case study organisations.

Practical implications

There are practical findings in terms of the potential benefits and limitations from a functional benchmarking exercise. There are also practical recommendations in terms of organisations seeking to develop and implement staff car parking strategies.

Originality/value

The paper provides an illustration of functional benchmarking in practice.