bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aquatic suction feeding dynamics: insights from computational modelling
Authors: Van Wassenbergh Sam , Aerts Peter
Published: September 2008

Aquatic suction feeding in vertebrates involves extremely unsteady flow, externally as well as internally of the expanding mouth cavity. Consequently, studying the hydrodynamics involved in this process is a challenging research area, where experimental studies and mathematical models gradually aid our understanding of how suction feeding works mechanically. Especially for flow patterns inside the mouth cavity, our current knowledge is almost entirely based on modelling studies. In the present paper, we critically discuss some of the assumptions and limitations of previous analytical models of suction feeding using computational fluid dynamics.
Real-time multi-parameter spectroscopy and localization in three-dimensional single-particle tracking
Authors: Hellriegel Christian , Gratton Enrico
Published: September 2008

Tracking of single particles in optical microscopy has been employed in studies ranging from material sciences to biophysics down to the level of single molecules. The technique intrinsically circumvents ensemble averaging and may therefore reveal directly mechanistic details of the involved dynamic processes. Such processes range from translational and rotational motion to spectral dynamics. We distinguish between conventional
a posteriori
tracking of objects (e.g. from the sequences of images) and the experimentally more refined ‘on-the-fly’ tracking technique. In this technique, the observation volume of the microscope is kept centred with respect to the moving object via a feedback algorithm. This approach brings a series of advantages in comparison with the tracking from images, ranging from a superior spatio-temporal resolution (2–50 nm and 1–32 ms) to the capability of inferring additional data (e.g. fluorescence lifetime, emission spectrum, polarization, intensity dynamics) from an object as it moves over several microns in three dimensions. In this contribution, we describe the principle of the tracking technique as implemented on a two-photon laser scanning microscope and illustrate its capabilities with experimental data, from particles labelled with different dyes moving in a liquid to the characterization of small fluorescently labelled protein assemblies in living cells.
Mechanical characterization of biomimetic membranes by micro-shaft poking
Authors: Ahearne Mark , Siamantouras Eleftherios , Yang Ying , Liu Kuo-Kang
Published: September 2008

The popularity of biomimetic membranes has recently increased due to their biomedical applications such as tissue engineering/regenerative medicine and biosensors. Characterization of the viscoelastic properties of these membranes is important in developing functional membranes. A new micro-shaft poking technique has been developed, which is free from the complication of substrate backing, and which is normally an intractable problem in conventional indentation testing of membrane materials. A tailored indentation apparatus with a spherical indenter and a force resolution and displacement of 1 μN and 1 μm was constructed. Alginate and agarose were used to fabricate biomimetic membranes. Chicken epidermis was examined to represent a real biological tissue. The results show that the elastic modulus increased with concentration in hydrogels. Epidermis moduli appeared to increase with increased strain. Stress relaxation tests have also been conducted to examine the time-dependent behaviours of various hydrogels and a viscoelastic model has been correspondingly developed and applied to describe the experimental results. Potential applications of this new instrument to other membranes, both artificial and biological, have also been addressed.
Monogamy of non-local quantum correlations
Authors: Toner Ben
Published: September 2008

We describe a new technique for obtaining Tsirelson bounds, which are upper bounds on the quantum value of a Bell inequality. Since quantum correlations do not allow signalling, we obtain a Tsirelson bound by maximizing over all no-signalling probability distributions. This maximization can be cast as a linear programme. In a setting where three parties, A, B and C, share an entangled quantum state of arbitrary dimension, we (i) bound the trade-off between AB's and AC's violation of the Clauser–Horne–Shimony–Holt inequality and (ii) demonstrate that forcing B and C to be classically correlated prevents A and B from violating certain Bell inequalities, relevant for interactive proof systems and cryptography.
Fast algorithms for Helmholtz Green's functions
Authors: Beylkin Gregory , Kurcz Christopher , Monzón Lucas
Published: September 2008

The formal representation of the quasi-periodic Helmholtz Green's function obtained by the method of images is only conditionally convergent and, thus, requires an appropriate summation convention for its evaluation. Instead of using this formal sum, we derive a candidate Green's function as a sum of two rapidly convergent series, one to be applied in the spatial domain and the other in the Fourier domain (as in Ewald's method). We prove that this representation of Green's function satisfies the Helmholtz equation with the quasi-periodic condition and, furthermore, leads to a fast algorithm for its application as an operator.

We approximate the spatial series by a short sum of separable functions given by Gaussians in each variable. For the series in the Fourier domain, we exploit the exponential decay of its terms to truncate it. We use fast and accurate algorithms for convolving functions with this approximation of the quasi-periodic Green's function. The resulting method yields a fast solver for the Helmholtz equation with the quasi-periodic boundary condition. The algorithm is adaptive in the spatial domain and its performance does not significantly deteriorate when Green's function is applied to discontinuous functions or potentials with singularities. We also construct Helmholtz Green's functions with Dirichlet, Neumann or mixed boundary conditions on simple domains and use a modification of the fast algorithm for the quasi-periodic Green's function to apply them.

The complexity, in dimensiond≥2, of these algorithms is(κd log κ+C(log ϵ−1)d), whereϵis the desired accuracy,κis proportional to the number of wavelengths contained in the computational domain andCis a constant. We illustrate our approach with examples.
On the surface plasmon polariton wave at the planar interface of a metal and a chiral sculptured thin film
Authors: Polo John A , Lakhtakia Akhlesh
Published: September 2008

The solution of a dispersion equation indicates the theoretical existence of multiple modes of surface plasmon polariton wave propagation at the planar interface of a metal and a chiral sculptured thin film (STF). One mode appears to occur over a wide range of the structural period of the chiral STF, while all other modes exist only above some minimum value of the structural period, the minimum value being different for each mode. In order to excite the different modes, the interface can be incorporated in the commonplace Kretschmann configuration, for which our calculations show that the efficient excitation of different modes would require different numbers of structural periods of the chiral STF.
Solitary waves on a free surface of a heated Maxwell fluid
Authors: Comissiong D , Kraenkel R.A , Manna M.A
Published: September 2008

The existence of an oscillatory instability in the Bénard–Marangoni phenomenon for a viscoelastic Maxwell's fluid is explored. We consider a fluid that is bounded above by a free deformable surface and below by an impermeable bottom. The fluid is subject to a temperature gradient, inducing instabilities. We show that due to balance between viscous dissipation and energy injection from thermal gradients, a long-wave oscillatory instability develops. In the weak nonlinear regime, it is governed by the Korteweg–de Vries equation. Stable nonlinear structures such as solitons are thus predicted. The specific influence of viscoelasticity on the dynamics is discussed and shown to affect the amplitude of the soliton, pointing out the possible existence of depression waves in this case. Experimental feasibility is examined leading to the conclusion that for realistic fluids, depression waves should be more easily seen in the Bénard–Marangoni system.
The micropolar elasticity constants of circular cell honeycombs
Authors: Chung Jaeung , Waas Anthony M
Published: September 2008

In this paper, a set of expressions for the characterization of circular cell honeycombs as micropolar elastic solids is derived using a combination of non-dimensional analysis and numerical analysis. Closed-form expressions for the four in-plane (i.e. the plane normal to the generators of the cells) micropolar compliances are derived in terms of the cell size, cell thickness and the linear elastic properties of the cell wall material. Independent analyses are conducted to verify the accuracy of the derived constants.
The bandcount increment scenario. III. Deformed structures
Authors: Avrutin Viktor , Eckstein Bernd , Schanz Michael
Published: September 2008

Bifurcation structures in two-dimensional parameter spaces formed by chaotic attractors alone are still a long way from being understood completely. In a series of three papers, we investigated the chaotic domain without periodic inclusions for a map, which is considered by many authors as some kind of one-dimensional canonical form for discontinuous maps. In Part I, the basic structures in the chaotic region are explained by the bandcount increment scenario. In Part II, fine self-similar substructures nested into the bandcount increment scenario are explained by the bandcount-adding and -doubling scenarios, nested into each other ad infinitum. Hereby, we fixed in both previous parts one of the parameters to a non-generic value, and studied the remaining two-dimensional parameter subspace. In this Part III, finally we investigated the structures under variation of this third parameter. Remarkably, this step is the most important with respect to practical applications, since it cannot be expected that these operate exactly at the previously investigated specific value.
On the Riemann property of angular lattice sums and the one-dimensional limit of two-dimensional lattice sums
Authors: McPhedran Ross C , Zucker I.J , Botten Lindsay C , Nicorovici Nicolae-Alexandru P
Published: September 2008

We consider a general class of two-dimensional lattice sums consisting of complex powers
s
of inverse quadratic functions. We consider two cases, one where the quadratic function is negative definite and another more restricted case where it is positive definite. In the former, we use a representation due to H. Kober, and consider the limit
u
→∞, where the lattice becomes ever more elongated along one period direction (the one-dimensional limit). In the latter, we use an explicit evaluation of the sum due to Zucker and Robertson. In either case, we show that the one-dimensional limit of the sum is given in terms of
ζ
(2
s
) if Re(
s
)>1/2 and either
ζ
(2
s
−1) or
ζ
(2−2
s
) if Re(
s
)<1/2. In either case, this leads to a Riemann property of these sums in the one-dimensional limit: their zeros must lie on the critical line Re(
s
)=1/2. We also comment on a class of sums that involve complex powers of the distance to points in a two-dimensional square lattice and trigonometric functions of their angle. We show that certain of these sums can have their zeros on the critical line but not in a neighbourhood of it; others are identically zero on it, while still others have no zeros on it.
On stability of rotordynamic systems with rotor–stator contact interaction
Authors: Cole Matthew O.T
Published: September 2008

In machine systems where a rotor spins within a finite clearance space supported by bearings, contact between the rotor and its surround can result in persistent coupled vibration of the rotor and stator. When the vibration response is driven predominantly by friction forces, rotordynamic stability becomes a serious issue. This paper introduces a theory for model-based verification of dynamic stability in rotor systems with stator contact and rub. Generalized multi-degree-of-freedom linear models of rotor and stator lateral vibration are considered, combined with contact models that account for finite clearance and Coulomb friction. State-space conditions for global stability as well as stability of contact-free synchronous whirl responses are derived using Lyapunov's direct method. This leads to feasibility problems involving matrix inequalities that can be quickly verified using numerical routines for convex optimization. Parametric studies involving flexible rotor models indicate that tight bounds on regions of stability can be obtained. A case study involving a realistic machine model illustrates how design optimization based on the theory might be used to overcome instability problems in real machines.
Theory of quantum arrival and spatial wave function collapse on the appearance of particle
Authors: Galapon Eric A
Published: September 2008

The unexpected connection is unravelled between the collapse of the wave function on the appearance of particle and the quantum time-of-arrival problem in one dimension. To do so, a theory of quantum first time of arrival is developed in the interacting case for arbitrary arrival point in one dimension based on a self-adjoint and canonical coarse graining of a time-of-arrival operator that derives the classical time-of-arrival observable. The appearance of particle in quantum mechanics is then considered in the light of this theory. It is found that the appearance of particle arises as a combination of the collapse of the initial wave function into one of the eigenfunctions of the time-of-arrival operator, followed by a unitary Schrödinger evolution of the eigenfunction.
RNA Interference-Mediated Repression of MtCCD1 in Mycorrhizal Roots of Medicago truncatula Causes Accumulation of C27 Apocarotenoids, Shedding Light on the Functional Role of CCD1
Authors: Floss Daniela S. , Schliemann Willibald , Schmidt Jürgen , Strack Dieter , Walter Michael H.
Published: September 2008

Tailoring carotenoids by plant carotenoid cleavage dioxygenases (CCDs) generates various bioactive apocarotenoids. Recombinant CCD1 has been shown to catalyze symmetrical cleavage of C40 carotenoid substrates at 9,10 and 9′,10′ positions. The actual substrate(s) of the enzyme in planta, however, is still unknown. In this study, we have carried out RNA interference (RNAi)-mediated repression of a Medicago truncatula  CCD1 gene in hairy roots colonized by the arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus Glomus intraradices. As a consequence, the normal AM-mediated accumulation of apocarotenoids (C13 cyclohexenone and C14 mycorradicin derivatives) was differentially modified. Mycorradicin derivatives were strongly reduced to 3% to 6% of the controls, while the cyclohexenone derivatives were only reduced to 30% to 47%. Concomitantly, a yellow-orange color appeared in RNAi roots. Based on ultraviolet light spectra and mass spectrometry analyses, the new compounds are C27 apocarotenoic acid derivatives. These metabolic alterations did not lead to major changes in molecular markers of the AM symbiosis, although a moderate shift to more degenerating arbuscules was observed in RNAi roots. The unexpected outcome of the RNAi approach suggests C27 apocarotenoids as the major substrates of CCD1 in mycorrhizal root cells. Moreover, literature data implicate C27 apocarotenoid cleavage as the general functional role of CCD1 in planta. A revised scheme of plant carotenoid cleavage in two consecutive steps is proposed, in which CCD1 catalyzes only the second step in the cytosol (C27 → C14 + C13), while the first step (C40 → C27 + C13) may be catalyzed by CCD7 and/or CCD4 inside plastids.
Acceleration of Flowering during Shade Avoidance in Arabidopsis Alters the Balance betweenFLOWERING LOCUS C-Mediated Repression and Photoperiodic Induction of Flowering
Authors: Wollenberg Amanda C. , Strasser Bárbara , Cerdán Pablo D. , Amasino Richard M.
Published: September 2008

The timing of the floral transition in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) is influenced by a number of environmental signals. Here, we have focused on acceleration of flowering in response to vegetative shade, a condition that is perceived as a decrease in the ratio of red to far-red radiation. We have investigated the contributions of several known flowering-time pathways to this acceleration. The vernalization pathway promotes flowering in response to extended cold via transcriptional repression of the floral inhibitor FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC); we found that a low red to far-red ratio, unlike cold treatment, lessened the effects of FLC despite continued FLC expression. A low red to far-red ratio required the photoperiod-pathway genes GIGANTEA (GI) and CONSTANS (CO) to fully accelerate flowering in long days and did not promote flowering in short days. Together, these results suggest a model in which far-red enrichment can bypass FLC-mediated late flowering by shifting the balance between FLC-mediated repression and photoperiodic induction of flowering to favor the latter. The extent of this shift was dependent upon environmental parameters, such as the length of far-red exposure. At the molecular level, we found that far-red enrichment generated a phase delay in GI expression and enhanced CO expression and activity at both dawn and dusk. Finally, our analysis of the contribution of PHYTOCHROME AND FLOWERING TIME1 (PFT1) to shade-mediated rapid flowering has led us to suggest a new model for the involvement of PFT1 in light signaling.
Ehd2, a Rice Ortholog of the Maize INDETERMINATE1 Gene, Promotes Flowering by Up-Regulating Ehd1
Authors: Matsubara Kazuki , Yamanouchi Utako , Wang Zi-Xuan , Minobe Yuzo , Izawa Takeshi , Yano Masahiro
Published: September 2008

Recent research into the flowering of rice (Oryza sativa) has revealed both unique and conserved genetic pathways in the photoperiodic control of flowering compared with those in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). We discovered an early heading date2 (ehd2) mutant that shows extremely late flowering under both short- and long-day conditions in line with a background deficient in Heading date1 (Hd1), a rice CONSTANS ortholog that belongs to the conserved pathway. This phenotype in the ehd2 mutants suggests that Ehd2 is pivotal for the floral transition in rice. Map-based cloning revealed that Ehd2 encodes a putative transcription factor with zinc finger motifs orthologous to the INDETERMINATE1 (ID1) gene, which promotes flowering in maize (Zea mays). Ehd2 mRNA in rice tissues accumulated most abundantly in developing leaves, but was present at very low levels around the shoot apex and in roots, patterns that are similar to those of ID1. To assign the position of Ehd2 within the flowering pathway of rice, we compared transcript levels of previously isolated flowering-time genes, such as Ehd1, a member of the unique pathway, Hd3a, and Rice FT-like1 (RFT1; rice florigens), between the wild-type plants and the ehd2 mutants. Severely reduced expression of these genes in ehd2 under both short- and long-day conditions suggests that Ehd2 acts as a flowering promoter mainly by up-regulating Ehd1 and by up-regulating the downstream Hd3a and RFT1 genes in the unique genetic network of photoperiodic flowering in rice.
The ATG Autophagic Conjugation System in Maize: ATG Transcripts and Abundance of the ATG8-Lipid Adduct Are Regulated by Development and Nutrient Availability
Authors: Chung Taijoon , Suttangkakul Anongpat , Vierstra Richard D.
Published: September 2008

Plants employ sophisticated mechanisms to recycle intracellular constituents needed for growth, development, and survival under nutrient-limiting conditions. Autophagy is one important route in which cytoplasm and organelles are sequestered in bulk into vesicles and subsequently delivered to the vacuole for breakdown by resident hydrolases. The formation and trafficking of autophagic vesicles are directed in part by associated conjugation cascades that couple the AUTOPHAGY-RELATED8 (ATG8) and ATG12 proteins to their respective targets, phosphatidylethanolamine and the ATG5 protein. To help understand the importance of autophagy to nutrient remobilization in cereals, we describe here the ATG8/12 conjugation cascades in maize (Zea mays) and examine their dynamics during development, leaf senescence, and nitrogen and fixed-carbon starvation. From searches of the maize genomic sequence using Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and rice (Oryza sativa) counterparts as queries, we identified orthologous loci encoding all components necessary for ATG8/12 conjugation, including a five-member gene family expressing ATG8. Alternative splicing was evident for almost all Atg transcripts, which could have important regulatory consequences. In addition to free ATG8, its membrane-associated, lipidated form was detected in many maize tissues, suggesting that its conjugation cascade is active throughout the plant at most, if not all, developmental stages. Levels of Atg transcripts and/or the ATG8-phosphatidylethanolamine adduct increase during leaf senescence and nitrogen and fixed-carbon limitations, indicating that autophagy plays a key role in nutrient remobilization. The description of the maize ATG system now provides a battery of molecular and biochemical tools to study autophagy in this crop under field conditions.
The AtrbohD-Mediated Oxidative Burst Elicited by Oligogalacturonides in Arabidopsis Is Dispensable for the Activation of Defense Responses Effective against Botrytis cinerea
Authors: Galletti Roberta , Denoux Carine , Gambetta Stefano , Dewdney Julia , Ausubel Frederick M. , De Lorenzo Giulia , Ferrari Simone
Published: September 2008

Oligogalacturonides (OGs) are endogenous elicitors of defense responses released after partial degradation of pectin in the plant cell wall. We have previously shown that, in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), OGs induce the expression of PHYTOALEXIN DEFICIENT3 (PAD3) and increase resistance to the necrotrophic fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea independently of signaling pathways mediated by jasmonate, salicylic acid, and ethylene. Here, we illustrate that the rapid induction of the expression of a variety of genes by OGs is also independent of salicylic acid, ethylene, and jasmonate. OGs elicit a robust extracellular oxidative burst that is generated by the NADPH oxidase AtrbohD. This burst is not required for the expression of OG-responsive genes or for OG-induced resistance to B. cinerea, whereas callose accumulation requires a functional AtrbohD. OG-induced resistance to B. cinerea is also unaffected in powdery mildew resistant4, despite the fact that callose accumulation was almost abolished in this mutant. These results indicate that the OG-induced oxidative burst is not required for the activation of defense responses effective against B. cinerea, leaving open the question of the role of reactive oxygen species in elicitor-mediated defense.
Transport and Sorting of the Solanum tuberosum Sucrose Transporter SUT1 Is Affected by Posttranslational Modification
Authors: Krügel Undine , Veenhoff Liesbeth M. , Langbein Jennifer , Wiederhold Elena , Liesche Johannes , Friedrich Thomas , Grimm Bernhard , Martinoia Enrico , Poolman Bert , Kühn Christina
Published: September 2008

The plant sucrose transporter SUT1 from Solanum tuberosum revealed a dramatic redox-dependent increase in sucrose transport activity when heterologously expressed in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Plant plasma membrane vesicles do not show any change in proton flux across the plasma membrane in the presence of redox reagents, indicating a SUT1-specific effect of redox reagents. Redox-dependent sucrose transport activity was confirmed electrophysiologically in Xenopus laevis oocytes with SUT1 from maize (Zea mays). Localization studies of green fluorescent protein fusion constructs showed that an oxidative environment increased the targeting of SUT1 to the plasma membrane where the protein concentrates in 200- to 300-nm raft-like microdomains. Using plant plasma membranes, St SUT1 can be detected in the detergent-resistant membrane fraction. Importantly, in yeast and in plants, oxidative reagents induced a shift in the monomer to dimer equilibrium of the St SUT1 protein and increased the fraction of dimer. Biochemical methods confirmed the capacity of SUT1 to form a dimer in plants and yeast cells in a redox-dependent manner. Blue native PAGE, chemical cross-linking, and immunoprecipitation, as well as the analysis of transgenic plants with reduced expression of St SUT1, confirmed the dimerization of St SUT1 and Sl SUT1 (from Solanum lycopersicum) in planta. The ability to form homodimers in plant cells was analyzed by the split yellow fluorescent protein technique in transiently transformed tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) leaves and protoplasts. Oligomerization seems to be cell type specific since under native-like conditions, a phloem-specific reduction of the dimeric form of the St SUT1 protein was detectable in SUT1 antisense plants, whereas constitutively inhibited antisense plants showed reduction only of the monomeric form. The role of redox control of sucrose transport in plants is discussed.
Chloroplast Signaling andLESION SIMULATING DISEASE1Regulate Crosstalk between Light Acclimation and Immunity inArabidopsis
Authors: Mühlenbock Per , Szechyńska-Hebda Magdalena , Płaszczyca Marian , Baudo Marcela , Mateo Alfonso , Mullineaux Philip M. , Parker Jane E. , Karpińska Barbara , Karpiński Stanisław
Published: September 2008

Plants are simultaneously exposed to abiotic and biotic hazards. Here, we show that local and systemic acclimation in Arabidopsis thaliana leaves in response to excess excitation energy (EEE) is associated with cell death and is regulated by specific redox changes of the plastoquinone (PQ) pool. These redox changes cause a rapid decrease of stomatal conductance, global induction of ASCORBATE PEROXIDASE2 and PATHOGEN RESISTANCE1, and increased production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and ethylene that signals through ETHYLENE INSENSITIVE2 (EIN2). We provide evidence that multiple hormonal/ROS signaling pathways regulate the plant's response to EEE and that EEE stimulates systemic acquired resistance and basal defenses to virulent biotrophic bacteria. In the Arabidopsis LESION SIMULATING DISEASE1 (lsd1) null mutant that is deregulated for EEE acclimation responses, propagation of EEE-induced programmed cell death depends on the plant defense regulators ENHANCED DISEASE SUSCEPTIBILITY1 (EDS1) and PHYTOALEXIN DEFICIENT4 (PAD4). We find that EDS1 and PAD4 operate upstream of ethylene and ROS production in the EEE response. The data suggest that the balanced activities of LSD1, EDS1, PAD4, and EIN2 regulate signaling of programmed cell death, light acclimation, and holistic defense responses that are initiated, at least in part, by redox changes of the PQ pool.
Occupational stress: consensus or divergence? A challenge for training and development specialists
Authors: Redfern David C. , Rees Christopher J. , Rowlands Kate E.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The main aims of this paper are to: explore current views about the nature and causes of occupational stress as portrayed in the publications of employers and employee associations; and consider the implications of these current views in relation to the work of training and development specialists.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study builds on the findings of a similar study which the authors published in this journal in 2000. A library and internet‐based search was conducted to obtain publications and statements about occupational stress issued by trade unions and employers' representatives since 2001.

Findings

The analysis of publications and statements from trade unions and employers' representatives revealed an emerging consensus surrounding definitions of occupational stress based upon the UK Health and Safety Executive's definition. However, the analysis of the trade union and employer representatives' publications also revealed ongoing differences in views about the main causes of occupational stress.

Practical implications

The implications of the study are discussed in relation to the role of HRD (human resource development) professionals in devising policies and strategies designed to create healthier workplaces by minimizing work and family conflicts.

Originality/value

The study offers a topical insight into how issues surrounding occupational stress are presented by influential parties and, further, how knowledge of these views can be used by training and development specialists.
Performance evaluation in a matrix organization: a case study (Part Two)
Authors: Appelbaum Steven H. , Nadeau David , Cyr Michael
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to examine and ultimately suggest the most effective method with which to evaluate employees operating within a matrix organization. Part Two aims to describe a real‐time case study and examine performance evaluations in depth as they relate to this case analysis.

Design/methodology/approach

This article consists of a comprehensive review of literature demonstrating functional areas within a matrix organization as well as employee evaluation methods within various organizations. It is presented in three sections: defining a matrix organization; demonstrating effective evaluation methods and strategies; and, finally, how the two should work together. Critical incidents are interspersed throughout the article in order to demonstrate how the research compares to the methods employed by a leading aviation engineering firm.

Findings

Ineffective evaluation methods within matrix organizations can lead to lower employee morale as well as an ambiguous understanding of employee roles within such an organization. Employee and management buy in and support of an evaluation system and its goals are crucial to the success of the program. The multi‐rater system appeared to be most effective.

Practical implications

Several tools exist to help employers effectively evaluate their employees in a constructive and effective manner. Among them are clear job description and corporate structure, followed by a review of performance by both functional and project managers.

Originality/value

Given the limited research with respect to evaluations within a matrix structure, this paper demonstrates an understanding of a subject that has not been adequately explored.
Interim management: is it the right career move?
Authors: Robeson Nick
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight a service for all executives considering a career change.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology was in‐depth research with industry service providers.

Findings

The workshop provides an excellent objective, one‐stop shop for the facts of the industry and how to get started as an independent interim.

Research limitations/implications

Material used is taken from Ipsos MORI research and from interviews with Interim Management Association (IMA) members. It is also validated and updated on a six monthly basis.

Practical implications

Delegates gain enough information to make an immediate informed decision about interim as a career option, as well as leading industry techniques to make a fast start, if that is their choice.

Originality/value

This course is unique to the industry, in terms of its content, availability, and value to delegates.
Business ethics – Part Two: Making it part of your strategy
Authors: Holme Charles A.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This second article (Part One in Industrial and Commercial Training, Vol. 40 No. 5) aims to provide an overview for senior managers of how to develop an ethical culture in business. It describes a management system to support a strategy, and a governance trail of activities that may be used by Non Executive Directors and Trustees as they discharge their fiduciary responsibilities.

Design/methodology/approach

The object is achieved through arguing for a systematic approach to developing ethical behaviour based on core values that support the business strategy. The article then goes on to present examples from organisations from different sectors and sizes where ethical values are part of a positive strategy to determine the culture of the business.

Findings

There is clear guidance about how to manage ethical values in business. Readers could start with the “ethical health check list” of questions. The questions could be a thought starter to managers discussing the topic at an away day for example. Managers could conduct an audit of an existing ethical strategy to identify if their values statement is being translated into behaviours throughout the organisation. They could contrast their activities with the examples in the article.

Originality/value

This article is educational and therefore provides value to senior managers and directors in a concise but comprehensive overview of the topic that is of current concern in the business world.
Personalised learning environments – Part 1: Core development issues for construction
Authors: Syed‐Khuzzan S.M. , Goulding J.S. , Underwood J.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to introduce the concepts and key issues surrounding the development of personalised learning environments.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a distillation of core research material gathered from a detailed literature review covering the concepts and issues surrounding the development of personalised learning environments (PLE).

Findings

This paper finds that most e‐learning applications are rather static and represent a generic approach to tutoring. Therefore, by default, they do not fully embrace learners' needs (i.e. learning styles). This paper also highlights key issues of incorporating learning styles into a PLE; and, has identified a “roadmap” for shaping and identifying the rubrics for further work in this field.

Originality/value

This paper is a very useful source in developing a PLE incorporating learning styles for learners.
Utilization of needs‐based customer training
Authors: Chow Alan , Woodford Kelly C. , Showers‐Chow Jill
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to look at how customer input was used in a front‐end needs assessment to formulate a training package that covered the necessary elements of product use, and how the training material was presented in a manner best suited for the trainees and their perceived needs.

Design/methodology/approach

A quasi‐experimental study was designed to compare the number of help desk calls for groups trained using the needs‐based training approach with the number of help desk calls from the most recent training groups that were trained with the standard training package.

Findings

Groups trained using a training package developed around their initial perceived needs had significantly fewer help desk calls than those who received the standard training. The number of help desk calls was reduced by over 75 percent from previous training sessions.

Research limitations/implications

Verification of transfer of training in other applications, with other products and other learner groups, would further validate that the needs‐based training approach is more effective.

Practical implications

All reasonable effort that can lead to more effective training will improve the customer's overall perception of the organization and will contribute to customer retention. Both customer satisfaction and retention are critical elements in the ongoing success of any company.

Originality/value

The demonstration of effectiveness and the utilization of assessment data for continuous improvement may have both practical and legal implications for the future; including enhancing customer satisfaction and retention, and reducing the likelihood of successful legal claims for negligence, particularly negligent training.
Interpersonal influence in the workplace – part three: Some research findings: influencing behaviour and team role behaviour
Authors: Manning Tony , Pogson Graham , Morrison Zoë
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to model the relationship between influencing behaviour, personality traits, work roles and role orientation. It builds on previous research into team roles, highlighting the relationship between influencing behaviour and team role behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

Statistical analysis on questionnaire data from a mixed, work‐based, UK sample is used to assess relationships between influencing behaviour, role expectations, role orientation and team role behaviour.

Findings

The paper argues that team roles access different types of power and influencing behaviours depending on role and role orientation. The findings establish a link between influencing behaviour and team role behaviour, as well as personality traits, developing the idea that there is a significant social dimension to team roles.

Research limitations/implications

The research does not consider specific influence attempts, nor does it present evidence regarding the effectiveness of patterns of influencing behaviour in particular contexts.

Practical implications

The paper highlights the relationship between influencing behaviour and personality and contextual variables. Considering “when” different strategies and styles are used may offer guidelines for action. The findings reinforce the significance of the social dimension of team roles and indicate a need for further research to consider the success of influencing behaviour in different contexts.

Originality/value

Previous research into influencing behaviour has focused on its relationship to either situational variables or personality traits and, where personality variables have been studied, they have been specific traits. This research considers both sets of variables simultaneously and covers the whole personality domain. This is the first study of the relationship between team role behaviour and influencing behaviour.
Ethical governance: beyond good practices and standards
Authors: Agatiello Osvaldo R.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to take a look at a new paradigm that is taking shape in an increasingly‐interwoven international system – that of ethical governance.

Design/methodology/approach

This article uses the literature and the authors' own knowledge.

Findings

All over the world governments are relinquishing many of their hitherto‐inherent activities through deregulation, privatisation, concession, outsourcing or sheer desertion, even in sensitive areas like food and drug control, public health and personal security. Should corporations fulfil a social service in addition to their profit‐seeking function? How is the social incidence of corporate activity measured and who policies it? What are the boundaries of limited corporate liability? Is ethical governance just wishful thinking? This paper suggests that it is through principles‐based policymaking and management that these queries can be addressed in earnest as we may have reached the point of no return already.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the body of knowledge on ethical governance and will be of interest to those in the field.
Towards a system of global ethics in international business: a Rawlsian manifesto
Authors: Prasad Ajnesh
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to use Rawls's principles of justice to develop a system of global ethics that can be used to govern international business practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A critical synopsis of Rawls's political philosophy is provided, his application in prior business ethics literature is reviewed, and a Rawlsian‐inflected ethics for conducting international business practices is outlined.

Findings

This paper concludes that Rawls's philosophical insights have significant relevance for the conduct of contemporary international business; that through critical engagement of Rawls's ideas there emerges the potential for international business to be predicated on social justice values.

Originality/value

This paper offers the first substantive attempt to elucidate the conditions under which international business is rendered to be consistent with Rawls's principles of justice.
Reflections on responsibility and justice
Authors: Muhr Sara Louise
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to question whether business is ethical as long as it follows rules, and on this view, to reflect over the relation between responsibility and justice.

Design/methodology/approach

To exemplify this relation, the paper is based on in‐depth interviews with a human rights consultant. In this way, the paper presents a story from the field and thus follows a narrative method to retell the story of the consultant leading a human rights project in South Africa.

Findings

The paper concludes that following rules is not enough to ensure ethical business in a global market place. As global business rests on dynamics and flexibility, it seems limited that most business ethics rests on bureaucratic notions. The value of also viewing ethical decision‐making as personal responsibility is introduced through the philosophy of Emmanuel Levinas.

Research limitations/implications

The study is based on in depth interviews with one person. Although this method ensures access to deeply personal and thorough knowledge about the event, it also has its limitation and risk of bias. Although this paper points towards some interesting relations between personal responsibility and international/organisational justice, more research is needed in the field of personal responsibility to make stronger conclusions.

Practical implications

The paper proposes that people working at the global market place could benefit from being educated in personal ethics and not only bureaucratic notions of ethics.

Originality/value

The paper provides valuable insight into the scarcely researched area of personalised business ethics.
CSR in the global marketplace
Authors: Barin Cruz Luciano , Boehe Dirk Michael
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The main purpose of this article is to identify some emergent issues when sustainability is introduced into global value chains. These issues deal with the conditions under which a sustainable global value chain might gain international competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

An exploratory research was conducted, based on a case study. The main players of the JOBEK's Global Value Chain were identified and interviews were carried out with representatives of these players. A thematic content analysis was developed, supported by Atlas TI software, using interview data and documents.

Findings

Three main themes have emerged, which can be considered as underlying issues of an emerging concept that the authors call the “sustainable global value chain”. These are: bargaining power between the chain's players; a differentiation strategy along the global value chain; and a collaborative awareness‐building process along the global value chain.

Research limitations/implications

Although the findings result from a single case study, the characteristics of this case have allowed the authors to suggest an emergent concept for the field of international business: the concept of a sustainable global value chain. This has implications for the development of a new research field and for the introduction of some ethical concerns into this field.

Practical implications

Managers of organizations that participate in sustainable global value chains may consider the emerging concepts and their interrelationships as a guideline for strategic decision‐making. In particular, managers need to be aware of how the relationships between power balance, CSR product differentiation strategies and awareness building may influence the competitiveness of their sustainable global value chain.

Originality/value

The article proposes the emergence of a new concept that has important ethical implications for international business: the sustainable global value chain. The authors suggest that the further development of this new concept is likely to stimulate the development of an emergent research field.
Benchmarking as a process for demonstrating organizational trustworthiness?
Authors: Dwyer Rocky J.
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss why neither people nor organizations can demand trust, but rather how people and organizations can demand trustworthiness of themselves and others. While trustworthiness can be developed, and trust earned, this process takes time.

Design/methodology/approach

An examination of the literature was undertaken to review trust from a variety of dimensions and perspectives to determine the role of trust as a fundamental notion, which may be an underlying factor in foreign aid objectives.

Findings

This paper advocates that an understanding of trust and trustworthiness, when fused with a stakeholder perspective, may lead to enhanced levels of global poverty reduction objectives.

Originality/value

This paper enhances personal knowledge and understanding at the theoretical and practical levels enabling business leaders to gain insight regarding the inherent stakeholder factors that need to be considered when designing performance‐measurement strategies and reporting frameworks.
Interrelations between competitiveness and responsibility at macro and micro level
Authors: Herciu Mihaela , Ogrean Claudia
Published: September 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasize that the growing of competitiveness at any level may be possible through more responsibility (business ethics) on the one hand and less corruption (as lack of business ethics) on the other.

Design/methodology/approach

The objective of the paper is to identify the double‐way relationships between competitiveness and the responsible (beyond ethics) behaviour. In order to do this, the authors used correlation indexes CORREL and R2 and the graphic representation able to illustrate the above‐mentioned interrelations.

Findings

The authors observed that there is a strong and direct correlation between GCI, RCI and CPI – at national level, and six possible situations which reflect the interrelations between NP and FGP.

Research limitations/implications

The paper may be continued with specific behavioural models of MNEs in different host countries – integrating different approaches of business ethics.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the paper consist in offering some guidelines/starting points for firms in the search of global competitiveness through responsible/ethical conduct.

Originality/value

The paper develops a new conceptual framework, which integrates two “obsessions” of nowadays (competitiveness and responsibility) into the concept of global performance – national and firm related.