bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Homeopathic Preparations of Quartz, Sulfur and Copper Sulfate Assessed by UV‐Spectroscopy
Authors: Wolf Ursula , Wolf Martin , Heusser Peter , Thurneysen André , Baumgartner Stephan
Published: May 2009

Homeopathic preparations are used in homeopathy and anthroposophic medicine. Although there is evidence of effectiveness in several clinical studies, including double‐blinded randomized controlled trials, their nature and mode of action could not be explained with current scientific approaches yet. Several physical methods have already been applied to investigate homeopathic preparations but it is yet unclear which methods are best suited to identify characteristic physicochemical properties of homeopathic preparations. The aim of this study was to investigate homeopathic preparations with UV‐spectroscopy. In a blinded, randomized, controlled experiment homeopathic preparations of copper sulfate (CuSO4; 11c–30c), quartz (SiO2; 10c–30c, i.e., centesimal dilution steps) and sulfur (S; 11×–30×, i.e., decimal dilution steps) and controls (one‐time succussed diluent) were investigated using UV‐spectroscopy and tested for contamination by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS). The UV transmission for homeopathic preparations of CuSO4 preparations was significantly lower than in controls. The transmission seemed to be also lower for both SiO2 and S, but not significant. The mean effect size (95% confidence interval) was similar for the homeopathic preparations: CuSO4 (pooled data) 0.0544% (0.0260–0.0827%), SiO2 0.0323% (–0.0064% to 0.0710%) and S 0.0281% (–0.0520% to 0.1082%). UV transmission values of homeopathic preparations had a significantly higher variability compared to controls. In none of the samples the concentration of any element analyzed by ICP‐MS exceeded 100 ppb. Lower transmission of UV light may indicate that homeopathic preparations are less structured or more dynamic than their succussed pure solvent.
Dejian Mind‐Body Intervention on Depressive Mood of Community‐Dwelling Adults: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Chan Agnes S. , Cheung Mei-chun , Tsui Wilson J. , Sze Sophia L. , Shi Dejian
Published: May 2009

The present study evaluated the effectiveness of a short‐term mind‐body intervention program on improving the depressive mood of an adult community sample. Forty adult volunteers with various degrees of depressive mood were randomly assigned to the experimental group (Dejian Mind‐Body Intervention, DMBI) and control group (Cognitive‐Behavioral Therapy, CBT). For each group, a total of four 90‐min weekly sessions were conducted. Treatment‐related changes were measured using the Beck Depression Inventory (BDI‐II), an electroencephalographic indicator of positive affect (i.e., prefrontal activation asymmetry), and self‐report ratings on physical health. Results indicated that both the DMBI and the CBT group demonstrated significant reduction in depressive mood. However, among individuals with moderate to severe depressive mood at baseline, only those in the DMBI but not the CBT group showed significant reduction in depressive mood. Besides, only the DMBI group demonstrated a significant increase in prefrontal activation asymmetry, suggesting increase in positive affect. While most psychological therapies for depressive mood normally take several months to show treatment effect, the present findings provided initial data suggesting that the DMBI was effective in improving depressive mood of community adults after 1 month of training.
Opportunities for microfluidic technologies in synthetic biology
Authors: Gulati Shelly , Rouilly Vincent , Niu Xize , Chappell James , Kitney Richard I. , Edel Joshua B. , Freemont Paul S. , deMello Andrew J.
Published: May 2009

We introduce microfluidics technologies as a key foundational technology for synthetic biology experimentation. Recent advances in the field of microfluidics are reviewed and the potential of such a technological platform to support the rapid development of synthetic biology solutions is discussed.
Ant antennae: are they sites for magnetoreception?
Authors: de Oliveira Jandira Ferreira , Wajnberg Eliane , de Souza Esquivel Darci Motta , Weinkauf Sevil , Winklhofer Michael , Hanzlik Marianne
Published: May 2009

Migration of thePachycondyla marginataant is significantly oriented at 13° with respect to the geomagnetic north–south axis. On the basis of previous magnetic measurements of individual parts of the body (antennae, head, thorax and abdomen), the antennae were suggested to host a magnetoreceptor. In order to identify Fe3+/Fe2+sites in antennae tissue, we used light microscopy on Prussian/Turnbull's blue-stained tissue. Further analysis using transmission electron microscopy imaging and diffraction, combined with elemental analysis, revealed the presence of ultra-fine-grained crystals (20–100 nm) of magnetite/maghaemite (Fe3O4/γ-Fe2O3), haematite (α-Fe2O3), goethite (α-FeOOH) besides (alumo)silicates and Fe/Ti/O compounds in different parts of the antennae, that is, in the joints between the third segment/pedicel, pedicel/scape and scape/head, respectively. The presence of (alumo)silicates and Fe/Ti/O compounds suggests that most, if not all, of the minerals in the tissue are incorporated soil particles rather than biomineralized by the ants. However, as the particles were observed within the tissue, they do not represent contamination. The amount of magnetic material associated with Johnston's organ and other joints appears to be sufficient to produce a magnetic-field-modulated mechanosensory output, which may therefore underlie the magnetic sense of the migratory ant.
Predators indirectly control vector-borne disease: linking predator–prey and host–pathogen models
Authors: Moore Sean M. , Borer Elizabeth T. , Hosseini Parviez R.
Published: May 2009

Pathogens transmitted by arthropod vectors are common in human populations, agricultural systems and natural communities. Transmission of these vector-borne pathogens depends on the population dynamics of the vector species as well as its interactions with other species within the community. In particular, predation may be sufficient to control pathogen prevalence indirectly via the vector. To examine the indirect effect of predators on vectored-pathogen dynamics, we developed a theoretical model that integrates predator–prey and host–pathogen theory. We used this model to determine whether predation can prevent pathogen persistence or alter the stability of host–pathogen dynamics. We found that, in the absence of predation, pathogen prevalence in the host increases with vector fecundity, whereas predation on the vector causes pathogen prevalence to decline, or even become extinct, with increasing vector fecundity. We also found that predation on a vector may drastically slow the initial spread of a pathogen. The predator can increase host abundance indirectly by reducing or eliminating infection in the host population. These results highlight the importance of studying interactions that, within the greater community, may alter our predictions when studying disease dynamics. From an applied perspective, these results also suggest situations where an introduced predator or the natural enemies of a vector may slow the rate of spread of an emerging vector-borne pathogen.
Predicting muscle activation patterns from motion and anatomy: modelling the skull ofSphenodon(Diapsida: Rhynchocephalia)
Authors: Curtis Neil , Jones Marc E. H. , Evans Susan E. , Shi JunFen , O'Higgins Paul , Fagan Michael J.
Published: May 2009

The relationship between skull shape and the forces generated during feeding is currently under widespread scrutiny and increasingly involves the use of computer simulations such as finite element analysis. The computer models used to represent skulls are often based on computed tomography data and thus are structurally accurate; however, correctly representing muscular loading during food reduction remains a major problem. Here, we present a novel approach for predicting the forces and activation patterns of muscles and muscle groups based on their known anatomical orientation (line of action). The work was carried out for the lizard-like reptileSphenodon(Rhynchocephalia) using a sophisticated computer-based model and multi-body dynamics analysis. The model suggests that specific muscle groups control specific motions, and that during certain times in the bite cycle some muscles are highly active whereas others are inactive. The predictions of muscle activity closely correspond to data previously recorded from liveSphenodonusing electromyography. Apparent exceptions can be explained by variations in food resistance, food size, food position and lower jaw motions. This approach shows considerable promise in advancing detailed functional models of food acquisition and reduction, and for use in other musculoskeletal systems where no experimental determination of muscle activity is possible, such as in rare, endangered or extinct species.
On the complete integrability and linearization of nonlinear ordinary differential equations. V. Linearization of coupled second-order equations
Authors: Chandrasekar V. K. , Senthilvelan M. , Lakshmanan M.
Published: May 2009

Linearization of coupled second-order nonlinear ordinary differential equations (SNODEs) is one of the open and challenging problems in the theory of differential equations. In this paper, we describe a simple and straightforward method to derive linearizing transformations for a class of two coupled SNODEs. Our procedure gives several new types of linearizing transformations of both invertible and non-invertible kinds. In both cases, we provide algorithms to derive the general solution of the given SNODE. We illustrate the theory with potentially important examples.
The viscous froth model: steady states and the high-velocity limit
Authors: Cox S. J. , Weaire D. , Mishuris G.
Published: May 2009

The steady-state solutions of the viscous froth model for foam dynamics are analysed and shown to be of finite extent or to asymptote to straight lines. In the high-velocity limit, the solutions consist of straight lines with isolated points of infinite curvature. This analysis is helpful in the interpretation of observations of anomalous features of mobile two-dimensional foams in channels. Further physical effects need to be adduced in order to fully account for these.
Orthogonality relations for fluid-structural waves in a three-dimensional, rectangular duct with flexible walls
Authors: Lawrie J. B.
Published: May 2009

An exact expression for the fluid-coupled structural waves that propagate in a three-dimensional, rectangular waveguide with elastic walls is presented in terms of the non-separable eigenfunctions ψ

n

(
y
,
z
). It is proved that these eigenfunctions are linearly dependent and that an eigenfunction expansion representation of a suitably smooth function
f
(
y
,
z
) converges point-wise to that function. Orthogonality results for the derivatives ψ

n
y

(
a
,
z
) are derived which, together with a partial orthogonality relation for ψ

n

(
y
,
z
), enable the solution of a wide range of acoustic scattering problems. Two prototype problems, of the type typically encountered in two-part scattering problems, are solved, and numerical results showing the displacement of the elastic walls are presented.
The 8 year thicket of triazine dendrimers: strategies, targets and applications
Authors: Simanek Eric E. , Abdou Hanan , Lalwani Sanjiv , Lim Jongdoo , Mintzer Meredith , Venditto Vincent J. , Vittur Brandon
Published: May 2009

This manuscript focuses on the routes, methods and reagents used to synthesize triazine-based dendrimers. Our pursuit of macromolecular architectures for drug delivery—dendrimers based on triazines—has been an ongoing effort for 8 years. To date, we have produced complex dendrimers with diverse peripheries as proof-of-concept, less complex molecules tailored for specific applications including DNA and RNA delivery and drug-decorated dendrimers for potential therapeutic applications including infectious disease and cancer. These syntheses have been executed at scales that range from high milligrams to over a kilogram. The routes, reagents and diversity displayed by a target anchors it in time. Early targets derive from convergent synthetic routes while later targets are prepared using divergent syntheses. The core of early dendrimers was a simple diamine, including piperazine, yielding the so-called bow-tie structures, middle period targets boast either a trispiperazinyltriazine core or a ‘super-core’ with six piperazine groups. Later targets return to the trispiperazinyltriazine core. The choice of linking diamine has also changed. Over time,
p
-aminobenzylamine was replaced by piperazine and then by aminomethylpiperidine with more exotic diamines sprinkled in throughout. Peripheral group choice has undergone similar variations: from AB
2
to AB
4
to, more recently, AB
3
. The diversity communicated by these groups yields dendrimers ranging from those with a common surface to examples where two groups were presented to those where four orthogonally reactive groups appear. Over time, these groups have grown in complexity from protected amines to tags for biodistribution and drugs like paclitaxel. Herein, strategies adopted and lessons learned are reviewed, intuitions relayed and future directions forecast.
Dating fired-clay ceramics using long-term power law rehydroxylation kinetics
Authors: Wilson Moira A. , Carter Margaret A. , Hall Christopher , Hoff William D. , Ince Ceren , Savage Shaun D. , Mckay Bernard , Betts Ian M.
Published: May 2009

Fired-clay materials such as brick, tile and ceramic artefacts are found widely in archaeological deposits. The slow progressive chemical recombination of ceramics with environmental moisture (rehydroxylation) provides the basis for archaeological dating. Rehydroxylation rates are described by a (time)
1/4
power law. A ceramic sample may be dated by first heating it to determine its lifetime water mass gain, and then exposing it to water vapour to measure its mass gain rate and hence its individual rehydroxylation kinetic constant. The kinetic constant depends on temperature. Mean lifetime temperatures are estimated from historical meteorological data. Calculated ages of samples of established provenance from Roman to modern dates agree excellently with assigned (known) ages. This agreement shows that the power law holds precisely on millennial time scales. The power law exponent is accurately 1 4, consistent with the theory of fractional (anomalous) ‘single-file’ diffusion.
Can Myxosporean parasites compromise fish and amphibian reproduction?
Authors: Sitjà-Bobadilla Ariadna
Published: May 2009

Research into fish and amphibian reproduction has increased exponentially in recent years owing to the expansion of the aquaculture industry, the need to recover fishery populations, the impact of endocrine disruptors on the aquatic environment and the global decline of amphibian populations. This review focuses on a group of parasites, the Myxozoa, that affect fish and amphibian reproduction. Lists of the myxosporeans that specifically infect gonads are provided. Most of these are parasitic of freshwater hosts, and most amphibian cases are reported from testes. Sex specificity and sex reversal are discussed in relation to gonadal parasitism. The immune response of the fish to the infection is described, and the contribution of the immunoprivilege of gonads to host invasion is emphasized. The pathological effect of these parasites can be significant, especially in aquacultured broodstocks, on some occasions, leading to parasitic castration. Although myxosporean parasites are currently not very frequent in gonads, their impact could increase in the future owing to the transactions in the global market. Their easy release into the aquatic environment with spawning could make their spreading even more feasible. In the absence of commercial drugs or vaccines to treat and prevent these infections, there is an urgent need to develop specific, rapid and reliable diagnostic tools to control and manage animal movements. In addition, much effort is still to be made on deciphering the life cycle of these organisms, their invasion strategies and their immune evasion mechanisms.
The sixth mass coextinction: are most endangered species parasites and mutualists?
Authors: Dunn Robert R. , Harris Nyeema C. , Colwell Robert K. , Koh Lian Pin , Sodhi Navjot S.
Published: May 2009

The effects of species declines and extinction on biotic interactions remain poorly understood. The loss of a species is expected to result in the loss of other species that depend on it (coextinction), leading to cascading effects across trophic levels. Such effects are likely to be most severe in mutualistic and parasitic interactions. Indeed, models suggest that coextinction may be the most common form of biodiversity loss. Paradoxically, few historical or contemporary coextinction events have actually been recorded. We review the current knowledge of coextinction by: (i) considering plausible explanations for the discrepancy between predicted and observed coextinction rates; (ii) exploring the potential consequences of coextinctions; (iii) discussing the interactions and synergies between coextinction and other drivers of species loss, particularly climate change; and (iv) suggesting the way forward for understanding the phenomenon of coextinction, which may well be the most insidious threat to global biodiversity.
Ecosystem service benefits of contrasting conservation strategies in a human-dominated region
Authors: Eigenbrod Felix , Anderson Barbara J. , Armsworth Paul R. , Heinemeyer Andreas , Jackson Sarah F. , Parnell Mark , Thomas Chris D. , Gaston Kevin J.
Published: May 2009

The hope among policy-makers and scientists alike is that conservation strategies designed to protect biodiversity also provide direct benefits to people by protecting other vital ecosystem services. The few studies that have examined the delivery of ecosystem services by existing conservation efforts have concentrated on large, ‘wilderness’-style biodiversity reserves. However, such reserves are not realistic options for densely populated regions. Here, we provide the first analyses that compare representation of biodiversity and three other ecosystem services across several contrasting conservation strategies in a human-dominated landscape (England). We show that small protected areas and protected landscapes (restrictive zoning) deliver high carbon storage and biodiversity, while existing incentive payment (agri-environment) schemes target areas that offer little advantage over other parts of England in terms of biodiversity, carbon storage and agricultural production. A fourth ecosystem service—recreation—is under-represented by all three strategies. Our findings are encouraging as they illustrate that restrictive zoning can play a major role in protecting natural capital assets in densely populated regions. However, trade-offs exist even among the four ecosystem services we considered, suggesting that a portfolio of conservation and sustainability investments will be needed to deliver both biodiversity and the other ecosystem services demanded by society.
Mobbing calls signal predator category in a kin group-living bird species
Authors: Griesser Michael
Published: May 2009

Many prey species gather together to approach and harass their predators despite the associated risks. While mobbing, prey usually utter calls and previous experiments have demonstrated that mobbing calls can convey information about risk to conspecifics. However, the risk posed by predators also differs between predator categories. The ability to communicate predator category would be adaptive because it would allow other mobbers to adjust their risk taking. I tested this idea in Siberian jaysPerisoreus infaustus, a group-living bird species, by exposing jay groups to mounts of three hawk and three owl species of varying risks. Groups immediately approached to mob the mount and uttered up to 14 different call types. Jays gave more calls when mobbing a more dangerous predator and when in the presence of kin. Five call types were predator-category-specific and jays uttered two hawk-specific and three owl-specific call types. Thus, this is one of the first studies to demonstrate that mobbing calls can simultaneously encode information about both predator category and the risk posed by a predator. Since antipredator calls of Siberian jays are known to specifically aim at reducing the risk to relatives, kin-based sociality could be an important factor in facilitating the evolution of predator-category-specific mobbing calls.
Corals escape bleaching in regions that recently and historically experienced frequent thermal stress
Authors: Thompson D. M. , van Woesik R.
Published: May 2009

The response of coral-reef ecosystems to contemporary thermal stress may be in part a consequence of recent or historical sea-surface temperature (SST) variability. To test this hypothesis, we examined whether: (i) there was a relationship between the historical frequency of SST variability and stress experienced during the most recent thermal-stress events (in 1998 and 2005–2006) and (ii) coral reefs that historically experienced frequent thermal anomalies were less likely to experience coral bleaching during these recent thermal-stress events. Examination of nine detrended coral δ
18
O and Sr/Ca anomaly records revealed a high- (5.7-year) and low-frequency (>54-year) mode of SST variability. There was a positive relationship between the historical frequency of SST anomalies and recent thermal stress; sites historically dominated by the high-frequency mode experienced greater thermal stress than other sites during both events, and showed extensive coral bleaching in 1998. Nonetheless, in 2005–2006, corals at sites dominated by high-frequency variability showed reduced bleaching, despite experiencing high thermal stress. This bleaching resistance was most likely a consequence of rapid directional selection that followed the extreme thermal event of 1998. However, the benefits of regional resistance could come at the considerable cost of shifts in coral species composition.
Song learning in domesticated canaries in a restricted acoustic environment
Authors: Belzner Sandra , Voigt Cornelia , Catchpole Clive K , Leitner Stefan
Published: May 2009

Many songbirds learn their songs early in life from a song model. In the absence of such a model, they develop an improvised song that often lacks the species-typical song structure. Open-ended learners, such as the domesticated canary, are able to modify their songs in adulthood, although the mechanisms that guide and time the song-learning process are still not fully understood. In a previous study, we showed that male domesticated canaries lacking an adult song model in their first year substantially change their song repertoire and composition when exposed to normally reared conspecifics in their second year. Here, we investigate song development in descendants of canaries that were raised and kept as a peer group without a song model. Such males represent tutors with abnormal song characteristics. Interestingly, the F1generation developed quite normal song structure, and when brought into an environment with normally raised canaries in their second year, they did not modify their songs substantially. These results suggest that contact with an adult song model early in life is crucial for song crystallization, but also that song development is at least partly guided by innate rules. They also question the existing classification of canaries as open-ended learners.
Both NR2A and NR2B subunits of the NMDA receptor are critical for long-term potentiation and long-term depression in the lateral amygdala of horizontal slices of adult mice
Authors: Müller Tobias , Albrecht Doris , Gebhardt Christine
Published: May 2009

The lateral nucleus of the amygdala (LA) is implicated in emotional and social behaviors. We recently showed that in horizontal brain slices, activation of NMDA receptors (NMDARs) is a requirement for persistent synaptic alterations in the LA, such as long-term potentiation (LTP) and long-term depression (LTD). In the LA, NR2A- and NR2B-type NMDRs coexist in synapses of LA projection neurons. We assessed the contribution of the two NMDAR subtypes to LA-LTP and LA-LTD in adult mouse brain slices by different induction protocols and by different inputs to LA neurons in the presence of different NMDAR subunit antagonists. In general, our results indicate that both NR2A and NR2B subunits are required for the formation of LA-LTP and LA-LTD. The abolishment or reduction of plasticity changes by these compounds could be due to the reduction in calcium influx via NMDARs. We also show, to our knowledge for the first time, that paired-pulse (40-msec interstimulus interval), low-frequency stimulation of external capsule fibers causes stable LTD. Rather than resulting from exclusive roles of the NMDAR subtypes, the synaptic plasticity response in the amygdala appears to be directed by the pattern of synaptic activation and the used inputs, which recruit the major NMDAR subtypes to variable extents.
Developing an architecture model for enterprise knowledge
Authors: Jafari Mostafa , Akhavan Peyman , Nouranipour Elham
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to explore the role of knowledge architecture in an enterprise and to provide a model to architect enterprise knowledge based on the Zachman framework.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual article providing a knowledge architecture model for an organization based on the Zachman framework that discussed several perspectives from the knowledge management point of view and information technology. To confirm the validity of the model a questionnaire was designed, applied and then analyzed by some statistical methods.

Findings

The paper provides a conceptual knowledge architecture model that can be applied to Iranian organizations practically. The validity of this model is confirmed by polling the opinion of knowledge architecture experts.

Research limitations/implications

The lack of resources directly related to the subject of the research, the novelty of this kind of research in Iran and the lack of organizations which perform a knowledge architecture model in reality are the restrictions of this research. The authors' suggestion for further research studies is to execute the model and survey from foreigner experts.

Practical implications

The paper may be beneficial for enterprise architects in the knowledge area.

Originality/value

The paper may be of high value to researchers in the knowledge management field and to practitioners involved with KM adoption in the organizations. It gives valuable information and guidelines that hopefully will help the leaders and the senior knowledge management managers to accomplish KM through their organization successfully.
Cloon Keen Atelier: scent for a premium position
Authors: Torres Ann M.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Cloon Keen Atelier develops candle and skin care products. The challenge for this small operator is to develop a strategy, which reinforces its chosen position as it develops new products and expands into other markets. Cloon Keen is known for its premium scented candles, but it is seeking to expand into the personal care market by creating their own line of skin care products and complementary accessories. Cloon Keen believes their handcrafted candles could provide a platform for developing a lifestyle brand. This paper aims to address these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

In‐depth interviews and secondary sources are used to collate the information from which the case study is developed.

Findings

Achieving the status of a lifestyle brand means the products embody the values and aspirations of particular group(s) or culture; it speaks powerfully to the core identity of its consumers. Typically, lifestyle brands are accompanied by a powerful promotional campaign to communicate the lifestyle brand values to audiences. To date, Cloon Keen's promotional efforts have been limited. The question is whether it can develop sufficient market presence to one day make the claim of being a lifestyle brand. The challenge for Cloon Keen is to find the optimum market position that provides a strategic advantage in a climate of robust competition.

Originality/value

The case study provides the opportunity to examine how an small‐ to medium‐sized enterprises may build its brand presence within a highly competitive market.
Home delivery at the Orange County Library System: an exemplar from the USA
Authors: Myers Jim
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a case study of Florida's Orange County Library System (OCLS) home delivery program, including the history, processes and cost‐effectiveness of the service.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes a descriptive form.

Findings

It was found that the service continues to grow from 9,000 books delivered in 1975 to 840,000 in 2008. It is cost‐effective and the most popular service with patrons.

Originality/value

The paper is one of the few that describes a successful home delivery service run by a public library. It should be useful for all librarians who are keen to introduce such a service in their own library.
The relationship between the uniform approximation rates and the shapes of fuzzy sets in fuzzy systems
Authors: Luo Qiang , Yi Dongyun , Yang Wenqiang
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to answer the question that what the best shape of fuzzy sets is in fuzzy systems for function approximation which is essential in many applications of fuzzy systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The uniform approximation rates indicate the approximating capabilities of fuzzy systems for function approximation. By Fourier analysis, the uniform approximation rates are estimated for the fuzzy systems with various shapes of if‐part fuzzy sets in the case of single‐input and single‐output. Based on the approximation rates, the relationships between the approximating capabilities and the shapes of fuzzy sets are developed and compared.

Findings

The since functions as the input membership functions in fuzzy systems are proved to have the almost best approximation property in a particular class of membership functions.

Research limitations/implications

From the viewpoint of function approximation, the input membership functions are not necessarily positive in fuzzy systems.

Practical implications

For engineers, the sinc‐shaped membership function is a good choice to improve their fuzzy systems in real applications.

Originality/value

The uniform approximation rates of fuzzy systems for function approximation are estimated. Mathematically, the relationships between the approximating capabilities and the shapes of fuzzy sets are analyzed for fuzzy systems.
Free object in the category of L‐fuzzy left R‐modules determined by L‐fuzzy set
Authors: Tang Jian‐Gang , Luo Mao‐Kang , Liu Miao
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study free L‐fuzzy left R‐module, using the language of categories and functors for the general description of L‐fuzzy left R‐modules generated by L‐fuzzy set. In the language of categories and functors, an L‐fuzzy left R‐modules generated by L‐fuzzy set is called a free object in the category of L‐fuzzy left R‐modules determined by L‐fuzzy set.

Design/methodology/approach

Category theory is used to study the existent quality, unique quality and material structure of L‐fuzzy left R‐modules generated by L‐fuzzy set.

Findings

The paper gives the uniqueness, structure and existence theorems of free object in the category of L‐fuzzy left R‐modules determined by L‐fuzzy set, and the authors prove that the fuzzy free functor is left adjoint to the fuzzy underlying functor.

Research limitations/implications

Some property of free L‐fuzzy left R‐modules will need to be further researched.

Originality/value

The paper defines a new class of L‐fuzzy left R‐modules, i.e. free L‐fuzzy left R‐modules, research and explore free L‐fuzzy left R‐modules in theory.
Marcuse on Senge: personal mastery, the child's mind, and individual transformation
Authors: Bokeno R. Michael
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to continue discussion of the merits of organizational learning as an emancipatory project, by articulating Peter Senge's concept of “personal mastery” (PM) against the radical subjectivity of Herbert Marcuse.

Design/methodology/approach

Conceptual comparison of extant works by both authors.

Findings

It is argued in the paper that while Senge and Marcuse share several affinities for the nature of individual, organizational and social transformation, Senge's concept of PM leaves several questions unaddressed, questions which concern the extent to which “the child's mind” may be usefully employed as a metaphor for the recovery of individuality and liberatory work. Marcuse's Marxian appropriation of Freudian psychoanalysis retains the possibility of the creative impulse, and suggests that “play” may enter work relations as the new sensibility for transformed work practices.

Originality/value

The paper puts forward the view that adult play, as the memory of a more unencumbered past, may be the radical subjectivity necessary for PM and individual transformation, and thus for more emancipated workplaces.
Have budgetary controls in the US club industry changed from the mid‐1980s to the twenty‐first century?
Authors: Oak Seonghee , Schmidgall Raymond S.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to understand whether budgetary controls at clubs have changed from the mid‐1980s to the first decade of the twenty‐first century.

Design/methodology/approach

The survey instrument is mailed to the members of the Club Managers Association of America. The questionnaire includes demographic data as well as information on budgetary controls.

Findings

For control purposes, comparisons to the original budget and actual numbers during the current decade have increased significantly from comparisons in the prior decade. The median variance tolerance for food and labor costs has declined from the mid‐1980s to the mid‐1990s and now to the first decade of the twenty‐first century. Median variance tolerances for beverage costs are slightly higher in this study than in the mid‐1990s study.

Research limitations/implications

The authors are unable to determine any statistical differences between current and prior studies due to a lack of prior data. Further research on tolerable control variances can be studied for other costs, such as supplies, energy, and fixed charges.

Practical implications

This paper provides findings that can help managers as they compare their budgetary control practices with US club industry practices. Educators can provide selected cost control information to their hospitality students focusing on club management and researchers can use this information as a base for further research in cost control areas.

Originality/value

This paper is the first paper on budgetary controls in the US club industry in the twenty‐first century.
Open access indicators and information society: the Latin American case
Authors: Gómez Nancy , Bustos‐Gonzalez Atilio , Santillan‐Aldana Julio , Arias Olga
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to estimate open access penetration ratios through cross‐analysis of existing social context and open access indicators in Latin America.

Design/methodology/approach

The following parameters were used to characterize the chosen countries. On one hand, it takes social context indicators like digital opportunity index (DOI), GDP 2007 (Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development) (www.oecd.org/home/0,3305,en_2649_201185_1_1_1_1_1,00.html), scientific output 2005, and investment in science and technology vs GDP 2004. On the other hand, it analyses open access indicators considering the two main open access strategies – the green and gold routes – and the existing legal framework.

Findings

This paper discusses the evolution of DOI and compares with open access parameters (numbers of repositories, number of registries in repositories, DOAJ journals and number of creative commons licences) in the context of scientific information in developing countries in Latin America.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is not an exhaustive survey and limits the comparison to the Latin American Countries, focalized in Brazil, Chile and Argentina.

Originality/value

This paper gives an overview of the situation of three particular countries: Brazil, Chile and Argentina, and explains the position of these countries in the open access movement in Latin America.
Bioline International
Authors: Walker Stephanie R.
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the growth and changes in Bioline International (BI), a non‐profit scholarly publications aggregator, distributor, publisher, and publishing assistance service founded in 1993 and operated by scientists and librarians who have a strong commitment to the principles of open access (OA) and to broad distribution, by electronic means, of scientific information.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a case study of BI.

Findings

BI has changed considerably since its early days. Initially, it largely consisted of e‐mailed versions of printed peer‐reviewed scientific journals from developing countries; these versions were generally e‐mailed as ASCII text and could lack figures and graphics. But much has changed, both due to technological capabilities and due to policy changes. BI has increasingly moved toward inclusion of e‐only journals, and has itself tried its hand at publishing a small selection of highly specialized, fully online journals, with OA portions. In January 2004, it converted its entire web site to OA (formerly, some portions were restricted). It has been enabled to become a pure OA provider of scholarly information through a model of grant support and partnerships with other institutions, including many international institutes and foundations and the University of Toronto.

Originality/value

BI success is provides an unusual and successful model for strong support for OA to scholarly research and scientific information, especially from developing countries. It also provides a model of flexibility and adaptability, with minimal resources, and demonstrates the possibilities which emerge from truly broad‐based collaborations, across multiple countries, and between large and small societies, academe, and non‐governmental organizations.
Thinking between the lines: literacy and learning in a connected world
Authors: Anderson‐Inman Lynne
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight trends affecting student writing and studying in the twenty‐first century and, as a consequence, the changing nature of literacy in this digital era.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses Thomas Friedman's concept of “flattener” technologies that are creating new levels of access and participation around the globe to emphasize changes that learners and schools need to use to become literate. Making use of a vignette followed by discussion of the research relevant to these developments, the features and distinguishing characteristics of these literacies are explored.

Findings

Six overarching recommendations for capitalizing on present and future innovations in technology and communication that provide new potential for twenty‐first century learning and future consciousness are made: competence; convergence; curriculum; customization; collaboration; and connectivism.

Originality/value

The paper provides an overview and insight into some of the many changes and challenges impacting on the world of education due to the large‐scale availability and use of digital text and digital media. The exploration of strategies to capitalize on the media rich environments in which our students live is compelling and evidence‐based.
Value creation and the impact of corporate real estate assets
Authors: Nappi‐Choulet Ingrid , Missonier‐Piera Franck , Cancel Marion
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of corporate real estate (CRE) ownership on value creation for non‐financial French listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a pool sample composed of SBF 250 companies over the period 1999‐2004, this paper investigates the association between economic value added (EVA) and market value added (MVA) as proxies for the value generated by French listed companies and the proportion of real estate in their asset portfolio.

Findings

The empirical results show that an increase in the proportion of real estate assets (over total assets) is negatively associated with EVA, but only for firms in service industries exhibiting low real estate intensity. The regression on MVA shows a negative association with the increase in the proportion of real estate for firms outside the service industries.

Research limitations/implications

Recent trends show that many large companies have sold a significant portion of their CRE assets. The underlying motives for such behaviour are yet to be examined (at least for the French context). If real estate has any influence, an association should be observable between proxies of value creation and the change in the proportion of real estate assets, owned by a company. The results suggest that sales of CRE assets may be driven by value maximizing behaviour.

Practical implications

In order to maximize the value of their firm, managers should apparently take value creation into consideration in their decisions to invest in or dispose of real estate assets.

Originality/value

The paper suggests that in a French context, CRE disposals may generate value added in certain industries with specific CRE intensity.
Lean thinking implementation at a safari park
Authors: Julien Denyse M. , Tjahjono Benny
Published: May 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on a research project at a safari park in Buckinghamshire, UK. The aim is to introduce lean principles to the park, to enable the park to increase profits through eliminating waste and improving the efficiency of key processes whilst concurrently increasing customer satisfaction. The research is based on a case study approach within the organisation over a period of three months. The project team worked together with management and staff to deliver tangible benefits to the park.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a case study approach within the organisation over a period of three months. The project team worked together with management and staff to deliver tangible benefits to the park. The team adopted a three stage approach linked by two decision points and used a variety of lean tools to help map the current state of practices in the park and to identify areas for improvement in the park's processes.

Findings

The project succeeded in identifying several key areas for improvement. The current situation across a range of customer facing processes is mapped and through detailed analysis and simulations, recommendations for improvements have been delivered to the management. The scope of the project is broad and so for the purpose of this paper, only one key area will be elaborated on, feed logistics. Feed logistics is the distribution network of feed throughout the park from receipt from the suppliers, the storage locations, through to the preparation areas and ultimately the animals.

Originality/value

The project demonstrated that in fact the underlying philosophies and tools of lean thinking can be used with significant benefits to drive improvements in the unusual setting of a safari park. The successful application of lean thinking into a safari park proved to be an extremely unique opportunity to observe the impact of those principles in generating both tangible and intangible benefits to that organisation. In particular, as discussed in this paper, the simplification of the feed network and distribution for the park eliminated waste in the form of movement, time and inventory.
Semi‐automatic post‐processing for improved usability of electure podcasts
Authors: Hürst Wolfgang , Welte Martina
Published: May 2009

Purpose

Playing back recorded lectures on handheld devices offers interesting perspectives for learning, but suffers from small screen sizes. The purpose of this paper is to propose several semi‐automatic post‐processing steps in order to improve usability by providing a better readability and additional navigation functionality.

Design/methodology/approach

Several rather simple (and thus fast) statistical indicators were implemented and evaluated to detect certain events in a lecture recording that can be used in a semi‐automatic post‐processing approach.

Findings

The evaluations verify the quality of the analysis. By presenting an actual implementation, the paper demonstrates how these results can be used to improve visibility of the content and provide further navigation options, thus increasing overall usability.

Originality/value

This paper provides practical information on how to build a useful system for everyday usage in normal teaching scenarios. The paper presents different approaches illustrating initial steps for achieving better visualization and navigation functionality for lecture podcast – two issues that are essential for their usability but have not found much attention so far. This implementation demonstrates the usefulness and feasibility of the proposed techniques. Although the purpose of this article is rather on practical aspects than on presenting new research results, some of the observations can have implications for research in this area and some results illustrate important aspects and interesting research opportunities.
Structural colours create a flashing cue for sexual recognition and male quality in a Neotropical giant damselfly
Authors: Schultz Tom D. , Fincke Ola M.
Published: May 2009

1. Structural coloration is common among animals that produce sexual displays involving motion or ultraviolet reflection. Different sources of colour may provide multicomponent signals that indicate the location, sex, and fitness of a potential mate or rival. We investigated the proximate basis and ultimate function of the wing coloration of the territorial damselflyMegaloprepus caerulatus,which produces a dynamic, high contrast display during flight. The wings of both sexes have blue and white bands, but the location of the white patches are sex specific.

2. Wax filaments produce diffuse, white areas through broadband scattering of wavelengths between 300 and 700 nm. Blue bands reflect wavelengths between 300 and 500 nm (λmax = 398 nm) and shift in hue with viewing angle, the result of thin layer interference produced by layers of cuticle and pigment within the wing membrane. Both wing bands strongly reflect UV wavelengths.

3. Both the iridescent UV‐blue and white wing patches provide high contrast against the vegetation in forest light gaps where mating occurs. Moreover, the iridescent signal oscillates during flight. Angle‐dependent UV‐blue iridescence is periodically extinguished during each wing beat cycle, in contrast to the white areas, which remain bright.

4. Males distinguish potential mates from rivals by the presence of a female’s white wing tip. Blackening the white wing bands of males and adding white wing tips to resemble a female elicits a sexual rather than aggressive response from males. Conversely, blackening the white wing tips of females reduces sexual responses.

5. The proportional area of the white wing bands of males is indicative of wing symmetry, correlated with body size, and in turn, territory residency suggesting that it may serve as a signal of male condition during intra‐ and intersexual interactions.

6. We propose that the flashing iridescent UV‐blue wing bands provide a beacon to potential mates across forest light gaps, whereas the white patches serve in mate recognition and may indicate male quality or territorial status. Our study identifies a unique combination of interference and broadband reflectors that provide a dynamic multicomponent signal.