bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pusillimonas soli sp. nov., isolated from farm soil
Authors: Lee Myungjin , Woo Sung-Geun , Chae Myoungsoo , Ten Leonid N.
Published: November 2009

A Gram-negative, motile, non-spore-forming bacterial strain, designated MJ07T, was isolated from a farm soil and was characterized to determine its taxonomic position by using a polyphasic approach. Comparative 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that strain MJ07T belongs to the family Alcaligenaceae, class Betaproteobacteria, and is related most closely to Pusillimonas ginsengisoli KCTC 22046T (98.6 % sequence similarity) and Pusillimonas noertemannii BN9T (96.9 %). The levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity between strain MJ07T and members of all other recognized species of the family Alcaligenaceae were below 95.2 %. The G+C content of the genomic DNA of strain MJ07T was 59.4 mol%. The detection of a quinone system with ubiquinone Q-8 as the major respiratory lipoquinone, putrescine as the predominant polyamine, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol, diphosphatidylglycerol and two unknown aminolipids as major polar lipids and a fatty acid profile with C16 : 0 (32.0 %), C17 : 0 cyclo (24.7 %) and C19 : 0 cyclo ω8c (11.5 %) as the major components supported the affiliation of strain MJ07T to the genus Pusillimonas. Strain MJ07T exhibited relatively low levels of DNA–DNA relatedness with respect to P. ginsengisoli KCTC 22046T (50±8 %) and P. noertemannii KACC 13183T (18±7 %). On the basis of its phenotypic and genotypic properties together with its phylogenetic distinctiveness, strain MJ07T (=KCTC 22455T =JCM 16386T) should be classified in the genus Pusillimonas as the type strain of a novel species, for which the name Pusillimonas soli sp. nov. is proposed.
Involvement of the Phospholipid Sterol Acyltransferase1 in Plant Sterol Homeostasis and Leaf Senescence
Authors: Bouvier-Naveݩ Pierrette , Berna Anne , Noiriel Alexandre , Compagnon Vincent , Carlsson Anders S. , Banas Antoni , Stymne Sten , Schaller Hubert
Published: November 2009

Genes encoding sterol ester-forming enzymes were recently identified in the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) genome. One belongs to a family of six members presenting homologies with the mammalian Lecithin Cholesterol Acyltransferases. The other one belongs to the superfamily of Membrane-Bound O-Acyltransferases. The physiological functions of these genes, Phospholipid Sterol Acyltransferase1 (PSAT1) and Acyl-CoA Sterol Acyltransferase1 (ASAT1), respectively, were investigated using Arabidopsis mutants. Sterol ester content decreased in leaves of all mutants and was strongly reduced in seeds from plants carrying a PSAT1-deficient mutation. The amount of sterol esters in flowers was very close to that of the wild type for all lines studied. This indicated further functional redundancy of sterol acylation in Arabidopsis. We performed feeding experiments in which we supplied sterol precursors to psat1-1, psat1-2, and asat1-1 mutants. This triggered the accumulation of sterol esters (stored in cytosolic lipid droplets) in the wild type and the asat1-1 lines but not in the psat1-1 and psat1-2 lines, indicating a major contribution of the PSAT1 in maintaining free sterol homeostasis in plant cell membranes. A clear biological effect associated with the lack of sterol ester formation in the psat1-1 and psat1-2 mutants was an early leaf senescence phenotype. Double mutants lacking PSAT1 and ASAT1 had identical phenotypes to psat1 mutants. The results presented here suggest that PSAT1 plays a role in lipid catabolism as part of the intracellular processes at play in the maintenance of leaf viability during developmental aging.
Specification of Cortical Parenchyma and Stele of Maize Primary Roots by Asymmetric Levels of Auxin, Cytokinin, and Cytokinin-Regulated Proteins
Authors: Saleem Muhammad , Lamkemeyer Tobias , Schuݶtzenmeister Andreݩ , Madlung Johannes , Sakai Hajime , Piepho Hans-Peter , Nordheim Alfred , Hochholdinger Frank
Published: November 2009

In transverse orientation, maize (Zea mays) roots are composed of a central stele that is embedded in multiple layers of cortical parenchyma. The stele functions in the transport of water, nutrients, and photosynthates, while the cortical parenchyma fulfills metabolic functions that are not very well characterized. To better understand the molecular functions of these root tissues, protein- and phytohormone-profiling experiments were conducted. Two-dimensional gel electrophoresis combined with electrospray ionization tandem mass spectrometry identified 59 proteins that were preferentially accumulated in the cortical parenchyma and 11 stele-specific proteins. Hormone profiling revealed preferential accumulation of indole acetic acid and its conjugate indole acetic acid-aspartate in the stele and predominant localization of the cytokinin cis-zeatin, its precursor cis-zeatin riboside, and its conjugate cis-zeatin O-glucoside in the cortical parenchyma. A root-specific β-glucosidase that functions in the hydrolysis of cis-zeatin O-glucoside was preferentially accumulated in the cortical parenchyma. Similarly, four enzymes involved in ammonium assimilation that are regulated by cytokinin were preferentially accumulated in the cortical parenchyma. The antagonistic distribution of auxin and cytokinin in the stele and cortical parenchyma, together with the cortical parenchyma-specific accumulation of cytokinin-regulated proteins, suggest a molecular framework that specifies the function of these root tissues that also play a role in the formation of lateral roots from pericycle and endodermis cells.
ArticleRank: a PageRank‐based alternative to numbers of citations for analysing citation networks
Authors: Li Jiang , Willett Peter
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest an alternative to the widely used Times Cited criterion for analysing citation networks. The approach involves taking account of the natures of the papers that cite a given paper, so as to differentiate between papers that attract the same number of citations.

Design/methodology/approach

ArticleRank is an algorithm that has been derived from Google's PageRank algorithm to measure the influence of journal articles. ArticleRank is applied to two datasets – a citation network based on an early paper on webometrics, and a self‐citation network based on the 19 most cited papers in the Journal of Documentation – using citation data taken from the Web of Knowledge database.

Findings

ArticleRank values provide a different ranking of a set of papers from that provided by the corresponding Times Cited values, and overcomes the inability of the latter to differentiate between papers with the same numbers of citations. The difference in rankings between Times Cited and ArticleRank is greatest for the most heavily cited articles in a dataset.

Originality/value

This is a novel application of the PageRank algorithm.
Intellectual capital disclosure, cost of finance and firm value
Authors: Orens Raf , Aerts Walter , Lybaert Nadine
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine empirically the impact of web‐based intellectual capital (IC) reporting on firm's value and its cost of finance.

Design/methodology/approach

A content‐analysis of corporate web sites is conducted from four continental European countries (Belgium, France, Germany and The Netherlands) on the presence of IC information. Simultaneous regression modelling is used to control for endogeneity within a firm's disclosure strategy.

Findings

The data show that cross‐sectional differences in the extent of IC disclosure are positively associated with firm value. Greater IC disclosure in continental Europe is associated with lower information asymmetry, lower implied cost of equity capital and lower rate of interest paid.

Research limitations/implications

The study is restricted to an analysis of firm's benefits of increased web‐based disclosure without considering related costs.

Practical implications

The results of the study show that firms tend to benefit economically from better IC disclosure.

Originality/value

Existing evidence is extended by considering the capital market implications of IC related disclosure and web‐based related disclosure.
From open source in the digital to the physical world: a smooth transfer?
Authors: Abdelkafi Nizar , Blecker Thorsten , Raasch Christina
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the transferability of the open source principles of product development from the realm of software to the realm of physical products.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the inherent differences between software and physical products, a theoretical discussion of the challenges that face the implementation of open source principles in the physical world are provided. A multiple case study methodology is adopted to provide insights into the applicability of the open source concept in product development outside software.

Findings

Many of the challenges identified theoretically are actually encountered in practice. To cope with these challenges effectively, hardware design activities can be translated into software development tasks, using programmable hardware. When dealing with open source projects in the physical realm, it is useful to distinguish between projects driven by commercial firms and those driven by individuals, as each project type can impose different conditions on successful implementation.

Originality/value

Although much scholarly attention has been devoted to open source software, the issue of transferability of the identified principles to other industries has undergone little in‐depth research. This paper provides a solid foundation for further investigation of this topic based on theory and empirical case examples. It derives recommendations for industrial experts wishing to benefit from the open source model in new product development.
Organisational approaches to flexible working
Authors: Gardiner Jean , Tomlinson Jennifer
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to, first, explore flexible working as an important but under‐researched dimension of equality and diversity (E&D) and, second, contribute to employment relations debates by exploring organisational perspectives on flexible working and how these connect with business strategies and the regulatory context.

Design/methodology/approach

In depth semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 12 E&D managers in ten public and private sector organisations. Interviews explored the role of E&D managers in the construction of flexible working arrangements (FWAs) and drivers underpinning them.

Findings

Flexible working was most evident as a significant field of E&D practice where E&D was linked into business strategy and was well resourced. The key roles of E&D managers in relation to FWAs were policy innovation and monitoring. Four organisational rationales for FWAs were identified from the data. These were FWA constructed as: an individual employee benefit; a means of improving operational effectiveness; an integral part of organisational strategy; and as a means of addressing structural social inequalities.

Research limitations/implications

While the sample is small, the research is of value to both researchers and policy makers, offering insights on an under‐researched area of E&D policy and practice.

Practical implications

This paper outlines different rationales for flexible working and shows how some organisation are able to develop flexible working policies that are more equitable and effective than other organisations.

Originality/value

The originality lies in the use of E&D managers as informants of organisational approaches to FWAs, which to date has been under‐researched in terms of its connection with E&D policy and practice.
Environmental assessment of construction trends in Mexico: towards sustainable building?
Authors: Guerra Santin Olivia
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the environmental performance of construction trends in houses in central Mexico by assessing the type and quantity of material used in construction elements.

Design/methodology/approach

Three reference Mexican houses are used for the analysis: a traditional house, a house with mostly masonry elements, and a house with mostly concrete elements. The reference houses indicate the construction trend followed in central Mexico. Quantitative analysis of the types and weights of various materials used to construct the houses is undertaken. The environmental performance is measured according to their sustainability potential. The indicators used are based on the Three Step Strategy, which sets the steps needed to achieve sustainable construction: use fewer materials, use renewable materials and be efficient with the remaining need.

Findings

The analysis shows that there is a trend to use faster and cheaper construction processes, which are often concrete and prefabricated elements, especially for dwellings built in series. Although this has the positive impact of decreasing the stress on housing demand, it might have negative impacts on the environment because more energy‐intensive and artificial materials are used. In addition, the low homogeneity of these materials decreases the potential of construction elements to be reused or recycled.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study aim at providing more information to practitioners on the sustainability of material choices during the design process. Thus practitioners will be better informed to design more environmentally sustainable buildings. The results are based on analysis of data from Central Mexico but may have relevance to other parts of the world.

Originality/value

The study provides quantitatively derived evidence to support sustainable design decisions.
Effects of helper sex, recipient attractiveness, and recipient femininity on helping behavior in organizations
Authors: Danzis Deborah A. , Stone‐Romero Eugene F.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the effects of sex, attractiveness, and sex role of helping behavior in a simulated work situation.

Design/methodology/approach

A 2 × 2×2 randomized experimental design was used, in which 81 participants worked on cooperative task building models. Male or female participants were asked for help from a female confederate who was either high or low in attractiveness and high or low in femininity.

Findings

A three‐way interaction indicated that male participants provided equal levels of help across femininity and attractiveness conditions, but female participants provided more help to low attractive‐high feminine confederates than to high attractive‐high feminine confederates.

Research limitations/implications

The external validity of the study may be limited, due to sample and experimental setting. Care should also be used in generalizing to situations in which the participants have longer‐term relationships.

Practical implications

Differences in helping related to sex, sex role orientation, and attractiveness do occur, and may be related to social roles and expectations. This may help predict patterns of helping in work settings.

Originality/value

The study demonstrated that sex role orientation can be experimentally manipulated, and that this does combine with other variables to influence helping behaviors. It also indicated that attractiveness effects are not as consistent as may be expected.
Modeling and simulation of aircraft anti‐skid braking and steering using co‐simulation method
Authors: Ming Zhang , Hong Nie , Xiao‐hui Wei , Xiaomei Qian , Enzhi Zhou
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a co‐simulation method to study the ground maneuvers of aircraft anti‐skid braking and steering.

Design/methodology/approach

A virtual prototype of aircraft is established in the multibody system dynamics software MSC.ADAMS/Aircraft. The anti‐skid braking control model, which adopts the multi‐threshold PID control method with a slip‐velocity‐controlled, pressure‐bias‐modulated (PBM) system, is established in MATLAB/Simulink. EASY5 is used to establish the hydraulic system of nose wheel steering. The ADAMS model is connected to block diagrams of the anti‐skid braking control model in MATLAB/Simulink, and is also connected to the block diagrams of nose wheel steering system model in EASY5, so that the ground maneuvers of aircraft anti‐skid braking and steering are simulated separately.

Findings

Results are presented to investigate the performance of anti‐skid braking system in aircraft anti‐skid simulation. In aircraft steering simulation, the influence of two important parameters on the forces acting on the tires is discussed in detail, and the safe area to prevent aircraft sideslip is obtained.

Originality/value

This paper presents an advanced method to study the ground maneuvers of aircraft anti‐skid braking and steering, and establishes an integrated aircraft model of airframe, landing gear, steering system, and anti‐skid braking system to investigate the interaction of each subsystem via simulation.
Robust balancing of mixed model assembly line
Authors: Xu Weida , Xiao Tianyuan
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce robust optimization approaches to balance mixed model assembly lines with uncertain task times and daily model mix changes.

Design/methodology/approach

Scenario planning approach is used to represent the input data uncertainty in the decision model. Two kinds of robust criteria are provided: one is min‐max related; and the other isα‐worst scenario based. Corresponding optimization models are formulated, respectively. A genetic algorithm‐based robust optimization framework is designed. Comprehensive computational experiments are done to study the effect of these robust approaches.

Findings

With min‐max related robust criteria, the solutions can provide an optimal worst‐case hedge against uncertainties without a significant sacrifice in the long‐run performance;α‐worst scenario‐based criteria can generate flexible robust solutions: through rationally tuning the value ofα, the decision maker can obtain a balance between robustness and conservatism of an assembly line task elements assignment.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is an attempt to robust mixed model assembly line balancing. Some more efficient and effective robust approaches – including robust criteria and optimization algorithms – may be designed in the future.

Practical implications

In an assembly line with significant uncertainty, the robust approaches proposed in this paper can hedge against the risk of poor system performance in bad scenarios.

Originality/value

Using robust optimization approaches to balance mixed model assembly line.
Novel type of PXI bus‐based airborne data transfer equipment test system
Authors: Duan Haibin , Zhang Haixia
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to design and implement a novel type of PCI eXtension for Instruments (PXI) bus‐based airborne data transfer equipment (DTE) test system.

Design/methodology/approach

First, the basic principle of PXI bus is introduced in detail. Then, the hardware and software are developed for the PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system. Based on the description of the basic conceptions of rough set theory, a novel hybrid approach for fault diagnosis in PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system is proposed, which is based on rough set theory, genetic algorithm and neural network. Combining with rough set theory, genetic algorithm is used to compute the reductions of the decision table. Subsequently, the condition attributes of decision table are regarded as the input nodes of neural network and the decision attributes are regarded as the output nodes of neural network correspondingly.

Findings

The exact application results are also presented to verify the feasibility and effectiveness of the developed PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system, and the test results can also be saved automatically. The exact application results show that the various faults within the PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system can be located on board level, and the newly developed airborne DTE test system is also easy to be extended and upgraded.

Practical implications

The proposed hybrid rough set theory, genetic algorithm and neural network approach could reduce the number of attributes in the decision table, simplify the structure of neural network and improve the ability of generality. The airborne DTE test system is also capable of different unit under test (UUT), which can be selected by the definite operators at the start of the test, to ensure that failures and problems are handled automatically and without intervention. This newly developed PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system can be located on board level, and it is also very easy to be extended and upgraded. Practical implementations show that hidden errors can be effectively detected by the developed PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system. The proposed methodology can help improve the general performance of the airborne DTE test system, and the faults can be checked with minimum time and effort. This system can enhance the army combat capability efficiently.

Originality/value

This paper develops a novel type of PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system. In particular, a hybrid approach for fault diagnosis in PXI bus‐based airborne DTE test system is proposed, which is based on rough set theory, genetic algorithm and neural network. This approach provides an effective way to diagnosis the faults of the airborne DTE test system.
Safeguarding customer information: the role of staff
Authors: Canhoto Ana Isabel
Published: November 2009

Purpose

Privacy is a topic of major interest to the marketing community that has fuelled the development of legal and technical mechanisms to protect customers' anonymity and to prevent the misuse of customer data. Nevertheless, data breaches continue to occur. The purpose of this paper is to offer new insight into the causes of such breaches, thus paving the way for novel approaches to privacy protection.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper presents a semiotic framework identifying the data, task related and normative factors that influence behaviour. A qualitative study with branch and back office employees in a British financial institution illustrates the explanatory value of the framework.

Findings

The results show that the legal tools provide guidance only when they are clear, relevant and enforceable, that technology reduces idiosyncrasy but has limited application and, crucially, that employees' attitudes, group norms, preconceptions and mental processes dramatically condition behaviour.

Research limitations/implications

The study integrates the limited marketing literature available on the reasons for privacy breaches, and advances the understanding of the role of employees in safeguarding customer data. It is an exploratory, small‐scale study that simultaneously offers new insight and identifies areas where further research is needed.

Practical implications

The paper presents practical contributions to marketing managers concerning policy wording, job design and reward schemes.

Originality/value

The study delivers a holistic framework to assess how the various privacy related initiatives may interact with each other, and specifically focusing the researcher's attention on what is often the weakest link in privacy protection: staff.
Gender differences in the response to unfair prices: a cross‐country analysis
Authors: Maxwell Sarah , Lee Sanghyun , Anselstetter Sabine , Comer Lucette B. , Maxwell Nicholas
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The research questions are whether there is a difference in how men and women respond to unfair prices and, if so, whether this gender difference extends across national cultures. Is the difference due to nature or to nurture? This paper aims to answer these questions.

Design/methodology/approach

The study uses scenarios to conduct a survey‐based analysis of the effects of gender and country on responses to personally and socially unfair prices.

Findings

The results indicate that the response to price unfairness is due more to nurture than to nature. Although American females tend to be more sensitive than men to price unfairness, there is little or no difference between men and women in Germany and South Korea: both sexes there react negatively to an unfair price, particularly when the seller has acted unjustly.

Practical implications

In the USA, the gender difference in response to unfair prices suggests that different pricing tactics should be used for men than for women. However, since males in South Korea and Germany are just as sensitive as females to unfair prices, pricing tactics acceptable to American men may not work in other countries.

Originality/value

This paper takes a look at the manner in which a price increase for a frequently purchased but essential product is viewed as unfair. The paper examines the issue in three contrasting countries – Germany, South Korea and the USA – to determine if any observed differences are universal or culture‐specific.
An approach to develop effective customer loyalty programs
Authors: Ho Richard , Huang Leo , Huang Stanley , Lee Tina , Rosten Alexander , Tang Christopher S.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper sets out to present a practical approach to develop an effective customer loyalty program by incorporating competition and heterogeneity in customers' preferences, and by avoiding the pitfalls associated with different types of loyalty programs.

Design/methodology/approach

To illustrate the approach, the paper presents a case study of T&T Supermarkets in Canada to show how a retailer can develop a cost‐effective customer loyalty program to retain and reward loyal customers so as to increase shopping frequency and shopping expenditure. The approach consists of four major steps, which are explained in detail.

Findings

Most T&T shoppers split their shopping trips at T&T (for Asian groceries and other specialty items) and a major competitor (for Western items). This creates a unique opportunity for T&T to develop a loyalty program that is intended to entice its loyal shoppers to increase their shopping frequency and expenditure at T&T. A “hybrid” reward structure was recommended to address the fact that there are two major segments of customers who prefer different types of loyalty rewards.

Originality/value

In addition to avoiding some common pitfalls of various loyalty programs, this paper presents a practical approach to develop an effective customer loyalty program by incorporating competition and heterogeneity in customers' preferences.
A management model and factors driving performance in public organizations
Authors: Sole Francesco
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyse the characteristics of performance measurement and management systems in public organizations and to highlight the main factors driving performance in this sector.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review is carried out in order to outline the main issues related to the adoption and implementation of performance measurement and management systems in public organizations.

Findings

The paper provides better information on the performance measurement and management systems in public organizations, by analyzing the performance dimensions, the use of performance measures and the factors influencing the implementation of the performance management process.

Research limitations/implications

The paper presents a model for driving the implementation of a performance measurement system within public organizations and identifies the main factors influencing this process. The paper is conceptual in its nature and will be further developed through an empirical research investigating the role played by the identified factors.

Originality/value

The paper identifies the factors driving the performance management process in public organizations.
Managerial characteristics, strategy and performance in local government
Authors: Ahmed Sebaa Ali , Wallace James , Cornelius Nelarine
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate strategy at the functional level, in Dubai local government. Using Miles and Snow's strategy typology, it seeks to concentrate on the relationship between the alignment of managerial characteristics with strategy type and performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Senior executive managers were interviewed and a questionnaire developed, based on the extant literature and issues arising from the interviews. This was distributed to functional managers within Dubai local government, and sought information regarding their personal characteristics, perceptions of requirements for implementing strategic initiatives and actual implementation approaches used. All alignments with the strategy adopted, the strategy required, and managerial characteristics and independent assessments of performance were then analysed statistically to assess the extent of alignment and congruency with performance.

Findings

Prospector managers have, on average, higher educational status than that of defender managers, with alignment of several demographic characteristics with strategic orientation leading to enhanced performance. Whilst alignments of educational attainment and organisation and job tenure with strategy are desirable, age has no effect.

Practical implications

By understanding the alignment relationships, more appropriate allocation of personnel will lead to increased strategic performance.

Originality/value

Previous studies have looked at the alignment of managerial characteristics with strategic type and aspects of performance. In all cases, the focus has been on corporate strategy, and predominantly in private‐sector organisations. The study combines these objectives and investigates the alignment between characteristics, strategy and perceived performance. It focuses on management at the functional level in a local government setting and demonstrates that classical upper‐echelon theory is also relevant at the functional level of management.
Case study: A fresh approach of the Balanced Scorecard in the Heathrow Terminal 5 project
Authors: Basu Ron , Little Chris , Millard Chris
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a case study of the Heathrow Terminal 5 project and to illustrate a customised application of the Balanced Scorecard in a major infrastructure project with multiple stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

The research methodology applied in this work was based on the case study methodology. The focus was on “how” questions and exploratory analysis of primary and secondary data supported in‐depth interviews with members from both the project team and suppliers.

Findings

The application of the concept of the Balanced Scorecard by Kaplan and Norton in project management is less frequent in comparison with operations management. The study has established a proven application of the Balanced Scorecard in managing quality in a major infrastructure project.

Practical implications

For practitioners of major projects the paper gives implications for implementing the theoretical and customising requirements of the Balanced Scorecard involving key stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper illustrates that metrics can be customised for major projects within the framework of the Kaplan and Norton Balanced Scorecard and that suppliers should be empowered to own the monitoring and improvement process using their performance data.
Comparative study of core values of excellence models vis‐à‐vis human values
Authors: Talwar Balvir
Published: November 2009

Purpose

This paper sets out to present a comparative study of the core values of 16 excellence models vis‐à‐vis human values enshrined in ancient religious philosophies and identified by social scientists as a spiritual way of working.

Design/methodology/approach

Contemporary excellence models (EMs) are considered as role models to attain success, and thus it is appropriate to review the effectiveness of their core values. The core values of 16 EMs are identified through a literature review and are studied comparatively. Further, common human values enshrined in various religious philosophies and also advocated by research as success strategies are identified for the comparative study.

Findings

The paper identifies and compares the core values of 16 contemporary excellence models. By and large, the focus of core values in EMs is similar. However, the Deming Prize has a uniqueness and different focus in comparison with other models. Some of the common values are customer focus, continuous learning, innovation and improvement, employee involvement and development, partnership development, systems, process‐based management, agility, and social responsibility. Human values emphasise the purity of the means and their adoption enhances stakeholders' loyalty. Core values will become more effective if they emanate from human values.

Research limitations/implications

The comparative study provides a new perspective for the integration of business values of EMs with human values. It may be useful for the custodians, the GEM council, researchers and practitioners to enhance their understanding of values and their impact in enhancing sustainable growth and prosperity.

Practical implications

The study is expected to help in a review of national business excellence strategies worldwide. The integration of excellence models with human values by model custodians and corporate leadership will lead to an exponential growth in business and prosperity for all stakeholders.

Originality/value

The study is a part of original research work at the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, India by the author after long experience in the implementation of excellence initiatives in industry. The paper is one of the few comprehensive studies of excellence models and focuses on the integration of learning to attain sustainable growth and prosperity in a competitive environment.
Accounting harmonization and the value‐relevance of dirty surplus accounting flows
Authors: Roberts Clare , Wang Yue
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of institutional factors and the European Union (EU) accounting harmonization on the value‐relevance and comparability of dirty surplus accounting flows (DSFs) in the member countries throughout the period 1993 to 2002.

Design/methodology/approach

The returns‐earnings models and fixed‐effect operating income growth models are used to examine the differences in the incremental and relative relevance of DSFs between countries which have a piecemeal system of regulation with significant input from the profession and/or market participants, and the code law countries with the government being the most important institution with regard to accounting regulation. Moreover, the relevance of DSFs in the three sub‐periods is compared, each reflecting quite distinct attitudes in the EU towards international accounting harmonization.

Findings

DSFs are incrementally relevant in Denmark, Finland, Ireland, Sweden and the UK, where equity market plays an important role in the country's financing system; and in comparison to comprehensive income, reported income is a dominant measure of performance in most European countries, with the exception of the five afore‐mentioned countries. There is also evidence that cross country differences in the value‐relevance and predictability of DSFs decrease in the later years of this sample period.

Research limitations/implications

Future research focusing upon the specific accounting changes made by companies in the EU is needed for a better understanding of the relative importance of stock market integration and standard setting changes in explaining the characteristics of DSFs.

Practical implications

The results indicate that the convergence in the reporting of DSFs over time is driven by global capital market integration, and more importantly, the accounting harmonization activities carried out via self‐regulation with significant input from the profession and/or market participants at national level.

Originality/value

The paper seeks to explore, firstly, the extent to which differences in the reporting of DSFs across the EU may be explained by institutional differences. Secondly, it explores whether or not differences across the countries have decreased in three phases of the EU harmonization process.
Capital structure and firm characteristics: an empirical analysis from Egypt
Authors: Omran Mohammad M. , Pointon John
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to investigate differences in capital structures across industries in Egypt paying particular attention to: corporate characteristics, such as liquidity, asset structure, growth, and size; fiscal characteristics, namely, the application of differential corporate tax rates; and stock market activity.

Design/methodology/approach

Comparisons are made between the four main industrial sectors: food, heavy industries, contracting and services. For each industry four aspects of capital structure are assessed. Firms are also classified according to whether their shares are actively traded on the Egyptian stock market. Multiple regressions are run to test a range of hypotheses. ANOVA and multiple comparison procedures are also employed.

Findings

Across Egyptian firms, higher business risks do not generally result in lower levels of long‐term capital structure. The contracting sector is significantly different from food, heavy industries and services in its determinants of its short‐term financing and interest ratios. The sector also has a higher level of debt, and so a hypothesised tax‐induced higher debt level for the services sector, which has the highest corporate tax rate, is rejected. Asset‐backing is particularly important in heavy industries, and in non‐actively traded firms. Size and growth are positively related to short‐term financing in heavy industries and services.

Originality/value

The value lies in the comprehensiveness of the study, covering both short‐ and long‐term capital structures across industries, both income measures and capital indebtedness, and distinctions according to whether the shares are actively traded or not.
Before they were famous: music‐based tourism and a musician's hometown roots
Authors: Leaver David , Schmidt Ruth A.
Published: November 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the nature of music‐based tourism in the context of the childhood locations of music icons from the 1950s and 1960s. The Beatles, Bob Dylan, Buddy Holly and Elvis Presley are selected and fieldwork is carried out in Hibbing, Liverpool, Lubbock, Memphis and Tupelo.

Design/methodology/approach

A normative approach is chosen using existing work on music‐based tourism as a backdrop. Key informant interviews are the main sources of primary data with a snowball technique used to gain access. Content and theme analysis is used.

Findings

Music‐based tourism is emotion driven with ideas of pilgrimage, nostalgia and heritage centring on sites of production of music; birth and death of individual artists; and places which shaped their early history. The demographic base of this market segment is widening to include both “baby‐boomers” and younger visitors for whom these music icons have become part of pop culture. It is important to recognise the sensitivities of these visitors and authenticity is a key factor.

Originality/value

This study is of interest to managers involved in promoting tourism and the marketing of place. It provides detail from major cities such as Liverpool to small towns such as Hibbing, Minnesota with a population of 18,000.
Can patients at high risk for significant colorectal neoplasms and having normal quantitative faecal occult blood test postpone elective colonoscopy?
Authors: HAZAZI R. , ROZEN P. , LESHNO M. , LEVI Z. , SAMUEL Z. , WAKED A. , VILKIN A. , MAOZ E. , BIRKENFELD S. , NIV Y.
Published: November 2009

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 31, 523–533

Background  Common reasons for elective screening and surveillance colonoscopy, at predetermined intervals, are family or personal history of colorectal cancer (CRC) or advanced adenoma (AAP). Quantified, human haemoglobin (Hb)‐specific, immunochemical faecal occult blood tests (I‐FOBT) detect bleeding.

Aim  To determine I‐FOBT sensitivity for CRC or AAP before elective colonoscopy in patients at high‐risk of cancer or advanced adenoma.

Methods  Prospective double‐blind study of 1000 ambulatory asymptomatic high‐risk patients (555 family history of CRC, 445 surveillance for past neoplasm), who prepared three I‐FOBTs before elective colonoscopy. I‐FOBTs quantified as ngHb/mL of buffer by OC‐MICRO instrument and results ≥50 ngHb/mL considered positive.

Results  At colonoscopy, eight patients had CRC, 64 others had AAP. Sensitivity for CRC and/or AAP was the highest, 65.3% (95% CI 54.3, 76.3), when any of the three I‐FOBTs was ≥50 ngHb (15.4%), with specificity of 87.5% (95% CI 86.4, 90.5) identifying all CRCs and 62% of AAPs.

Conclusions  All cancers or an AAP were detected every third I‐FOBT‐positive colonoscopy (47/154), so colonoscopy was potentially not needed at this time in 84.6% (846 patients). I‐FOBT screening might provide effective supervision of high‐risk patients, delaying unnecessary elective colonoscopies. This favourable evaluation needs confirmation and cost–benefit study by risk‐group.
Complement activation on platelets correlates with a decrease in circulating immature platelets in patients with immune thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: Peerschke Ellinor I. B. , Andemariam Biree , Yin Wei , Bussel James B.
Published: November 2009

The role of the complement system in immune thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is not well defined. We examined plasma from 79 patients with ITP, 50 healthy volunteers, and 25 patients with non‐immune mediated thrombocytopenia, to investigate their complement activation/fixation capacity (CAC) on immobilized heterologous platelets. Enhanced CAC was found in 46 plasma samples (59%) from patients with ITP, but no samples from patients with non‐immune mediated thrombocytopenia. Plasma from healthy volunteers was used for comparison. In patients with ITP, an enhanced plasma CAC was associated with a decreased circulating absolute immature platelet fraction (A‐IPF) (<15 × 109/l) (P = 0·027) and thrombocytopenia (platelet count < 100 × 109/l) (P = 0·024). The positive predictive value of an enhanced CAC for a low A‐IPF was 93%, with a specificity of 77%. The specificity and positive predictive values increased to 100% when plasma CAC was defined strictly by enhanced C1q and/or C4d deposition on test platelets. Although no statistically significant correlation emerged between CAC and response to different pharmacological therapies, an enhanced response to splenectomy was noted (P < 0·063). Thus, complement fixation may contribute to the thrombocytopenia of ITP by enhancing clearance of opsonized platelets from the circulation, and/or directly damaging platelets and megakaryocytes.
Effects of an exotic invasive macrophyte (tropical signalgrass) on native plant community composition, species richness and functional diversity
Authors: MICHELAN THAÍSA SALA , THOMAZ SIDINEI MAGELA , MORMUL ROGER PAULO , CARVALHO PRISCILLA
Published: November 2009

1. The issue of freshwater species being threatened by invasion has become central in conservation biology because inland waters exhibit the highest species richness per unit area, but apparently have the highest extinctions rates on the planet.

2. In this article, we evaluated the effects of an exotic, invasive aquatic grass (Urochloa subquadripara– tropical signalgrass) on the diversity and assemblage composition of native macrophytes in four Neotropical water bodies (two reservoirs and two lakes). Species cover was assessed in quadrats, and plant biomass was measured in further quadrats, located in sites where tropical signalgrass dominated (D quadrats) and sites where it was not dominant or entirely absent (ND quadrats). The effects of tropical signalgrass on macrophyte species richness, Shannon diversity and number of macrophyte life forms (a surrogate of functional richness) were assessed through regressions, and composition was assessed with a DCA. The effects of tropical signalgrass biomass on the likelihood of occurrence of specific macrophyte life forms were assessed through logistic regression.

3. Tropical signalgrass had a negative effect on macrophyte richness and Shannon and functional diversity, and also influenced assemblage composition. Emergent, rooted with floating stems and rooted submersed species were negatively affected by tropical signalgrass, while the occurrence of free‐floating species was positively affected.

4. Our results suggest that competition with emergent species and reduction of underwater radiation, which reduces the number of submersed species, counteract facilitation of free‐floating species, contributing to a decrease in plant diversity. In addition, homogenisation of plant assemblages shows that tropical signalgrass reduces the beta diversity in the macrophyte community.

5. Although our results were obtained at fine spatial scales, they are cause for concern because macrophytes are an important part of freshwater diversity.
Microclimatic buffering and resource‐based habitat in a glacial relict butterfly: significance for conservation under climate change
Authors: TURLURE CAMILLE , CHOUTT JULIE , BAGUETTE MICHEL , VAN DYCK HANS
Published: November 2009

In contrast to several organisms that have already shown range shifts to the north as a response to climate change, southern populations of relict species are trapped in isolated altitudinal habitats. Therefore, there is a growing interest to better understand their habitat use, with particular attention to the thermal aspects and associated significance for their habitat management. We address this issue by a study of larval habitat use relative to vegetation structure and microclimate in a glacial relict butterfly of peat bog ecosystems, using a functional, resource‐based habitat approach. We analysed caterpillar presence and density relative to vegetation composition (reflecting gradients of humidity, temperature, and natural succession of the peat bog) and to the availability and quality of thermal refuges for caterpillars (i.e., structures provided by Sphagnum hummocks). We also tested caterpillar survival rates under different temperature and humidity treatments. We found that (1) Boloria aquilonaris was a specialist butterfly of early successional stages with very humid zones of peat bog, (2) the lack of Sphagnum hummocks reduced larval habitat suitability, and hence the population density, and (3) a reduction of the thermal buffering ability of Sphagnum hummocks was observed in less humid, degraded parts, or late‐successional stages of peat bog. A larval rearing experiment showed a significant impact of temperature on caterpillar survival; survival being higher at lower temperature. Our field and laboratory results support the idea that the thermal environment exploited by caterpillars should be considered as a functional resource and included in a population‐specific habitat definition. Appropriate management of the peat bog habitat of this glacial relict species should not exclusively focus on the larval and adult feeding resources, but also on the quality of thermal refuges provided by Sphagnum hummocks in humid zones of the peat bog, especially in the current critical context of climate warming.