bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Eating Motives and the Controversy over Dieting: Eating Less Than Needed versus Less Than Wanted
Authors: Lowe Michael R. , Levine Allen S.
Published: April 2008

Anti‐dieting sentiment has grown in recent years. Critics of restrained eating suggest that it evokes counter‐regulatory responses that render it ineffective or even iatrogenic. However, restrained eaters are not in negative energy balance and overweight individuals show reduced eating problems when losing weight by dieting. A distinction is often drawn between physiological and psychological hunger, and neuroscience research has shown that there is a neurophysiological reality underlying this distinction. The brain has a homeostatic system (activated by energy deficits) and a hedonic system (activated by the presence of palatable food). The omnipresence of highly palatable food in the environment may chronically activate the hedonic appetite system, producing a need to actively restrain eating not just to lose weight but to avoid gaining it. Just as restricting energy intake below homeostatic needs produces physiological deprivation, restricting intake of palatable foods may produce “perceived deprivation” despite a state of energy balance. In summary, the motivation to eat more than one needs appears to be every bit as real, and perhaps every bit as powerful, as the motivation to eat when energy deprived.
Effect of the Interleukin‐6 (−174) G/C Promoter Polymorphism on Adiponectin and Insulin Sensitivity
Authors: Yang Xiaolin , Jansson Per‐Anders , Pellmé Fredrik , Laakso Markku , Smith Ulf
Published: April 2008

We investigated the relation among the interleukin (IL)‐6 (−174) G/C promoter polymorphism, adipose tissue gene expression of IL6, circulating adiponectin, and systemic insulin sensitivity. Eighty‐five Swedish male subjects who had participated in our previous prediabetic phenotype characterization study were genotyped for the IL6 (−174) G/C polymorphism. Subcutaneous adipose tissue gene expression of IL6 and adiponectin was measured in 44 subjects. The IL6 (−174) G allele carriers had higher fasting plasma insulin levels (C/C, 7.8 ± 1.1; G/C, 9.0 ± 0.6; G/G, 10.5 ± 1.0 mU/L) and higher homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (C/C, 1.6 ± 0.2; G/C, 1.9 ± 0.1; G/G, 2.2 ± 0.2) compared with subjects with the C/C genotype. The circulating adiponectin levels were lower in the G allele carriers (C/C, 7.93 ± 0.45; G/C, 7.05 ± 0.44; G/G, 7.02 ± 0.46 μg/mL), whereas the IL‐6 levels did not differ among the three genotypes. Adipose tissue IL6 gene expression was significantly higher in the G allele carriers compared with the subjects homozygous for the C allele (C/C, 0.29 ± 0.15; G/C, 0.84 ± 0.29; G/G, 0.62 ± 0.35). Our results suggest that IL6 (−174) G/C polymorphism is associated with insulin resistance and increased adipose tissue IL6 gene expression, which can impair adiponectin production.
Angiotensin‐Converting Enzyme Gene Polymorphisms and Obesity: An Examination of Three Black Populations
Authors: Kramer Holly , Wu Xiaodong , Kan Donghui , Luke Amy , Zhu Xiaofeng , Adeyemo Adebowale , McKenzie Colin , Cooper Richard
Published: April 2008

We examined the association between obesity and 13 angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) gene polymorphisms, including the presence (I) or absence (D) of an Alu element in intron 16 (I/D polymorphism), and performed haplotype analysis using data collected from participants of a community survey of hypertension among blacks living in Ibadan, Nigeria; Spanish Town, Jamaica; and Chicago, IL. Transmission distortion of ACE gene polymorphisms and haplotypes from heterozygous parents to affected offspring was examined in each study population. To estimate haplotypes, polymorphisms were divided into three groups based on their position on the ACE gene. No ACE gene polymorphism was consistently overtransmitted from parents to obese offspring among the three populations. However, the haplotype ACE1‐ACE5 TACAT, located in the promoter region, was significantly overtransmitted from parents to obese offspring in both the U.S. and Nigerian populations. No haplotype was significantly overtransmitted from parents to obese offspring among the Jamaicans. In conclusion, we noted the overtransmission of a particular ACE gene promoter region haplotype from parents to obese offspring in two separate black populations. These data suggest that ACE gene polymorphisms may influence the development of weight gain.
Triglyceride‐lowering Effect of Respiratory Uncoupling in White Adipose Tissue
Authors: Rossmeisl Martin , Kovar Jan , Syrovy Ivo , Flachs Pavel , Bobkova Dagmar , Kolar Frantisek , Poledne Rudolf , Kopecky Jan
Published: April 2008

Objective: Hypolipidemic drugs such as bezafibrate and thiazolidinediones are known to induce the expression of mitochondrial uncoupling proteins (UCPs) in white adipose tissue. To analyze the potential triglyceride (TG)‐lowering effect of respiratory uncoupling in white fat, we evaluated systemic lipid metabolism in aP2‐Ucp1 transgenic mice with ectopic expression of UCP1 in adipose tissue.

Research Methods and Procedures: Hemizygous and homozygous transgenic mice and their nontransgenic littermates were fed chow or a high‐fat diet for up to 3 months. Total TGs, nonesterified fatty acids, and the composition of plasma lipoproteins were analyzed. Hepatic TG production was measured in mice injected with Triton WR1339. Uptake and the use of fatty acids were estimated by measuring adipose tissue lipoprotein lipase activity and fatty acid oxidation, respectively. Adipose tissue gene expression was assessed by quantitative reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results: Transgene dosage and the high‐fat diet interacted to markedly reduce plasma TGs. This was reflected by decreased concentrations of very‐low‐density lipoprotein particles in the transgenic mice. Despite normal hepatic TG secretion, the activity of lipoprotein lipase in epididymal fat was enhanced by the high‐fat diet in the transgenic mice in a setting of decreased re‐esterification and increased in situ fatty acid oxidation.

Discussion: Respiratory uncoupling in white fat may lower plasma lipids by enhancing their in situ clearance and catabolism.
Comparison of Methods to Assess Body Composition Changes during a Period of Weight Loss
Authors: Frisard Madlyn I. , Greenway Frank L. , DeLany James P.
Published: April 2008

Objective: To assess the accuracy of body composition measurements by air displacement plethysmography and bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) compared with DXA during weight loss.

Research Methods and Procedures: Fifty‐six healthy but overweight participants, 34 women and 22 men (age, 52 ± 8.6 years; weight, 92.2 ± 11.6 kg; BMI, 33.3 ± 2.9 kg/m2) were studied in an outpatient setting before and after 6 months of weight loss (weight loss, 5.6 ± 5.5 kg). Subjects were excluded if they had initiated a new drug therapy within 30 days of randomization, were in a weight loss program, or took a weight loss drug within 90 days of randomization. Subjects were randomly assigned either to a self‐help program, consisting of two 20‐minute sessions with a nutritionist and provision of printed materials and other self‐help resources, or to attendance at meetings of a commercial program (Weight Watchers). Body composition was examined by each of the methods before and after weight loss.

Results: BIA (42.4 ± 5.8%) underestimated percentage fat, whereas the BodPod (Siri = 51.7 ± 6.9%; Brozek = 48.5 ± 6.5%) overestimated percentage fat compared with DXA (46.1 ± 7.9%) before weight loss. Correlation coefficients for detecting changes in body composition between DXA and the other methods were relatively high, with Brozek Δfat mass (FM; r2 = 0.63), Siri FM (r2 = 0.65), tetrapolar BIA percentage fat (r2 = 0.57), and Tanita FM (r2 = 0.61) being the highest.

Discussion: In conclusion, all of the methods were relatively accurate for assessing body composition compared with DXA, although there were biases. Furthermore, each of the methods was sensitive enough to detect changes with weight loss.
Home range and movements of radio-tracked estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) within a non-tidal waterhole
Authors: Brien Matthew L. , Read Mark A. , McCallum Hamish I. , Grigg Gordon C.
Published: April 2008

We radio-tracked five male and eight female estuarine crocodiles (Crocodylus porosus) in a non-tidal waterhole in Lakefield National Park in northern Queensland during the late dry/mid-wet season (2003–04) and the following dry season (2004). Individual crocodiles occupied larger home ranges (River Channel Areas (RCA) during the late dry/mid-wet season (10.64 ± 2.86 ha) than in the dry season (3.20 ± 1.02 ha), and males occupied larger home ranges (23.89 ± 2.36 ha) than females (5.94 ± 1.34 ha) during the late dry/mid-wet season. There were no obvious differences in home range between sexes during the dry season. During the late dry/mid-wet season, adult males often travelled long distances along the waterhole while females moved less. During the dry season, movement patterns were quite variable, with no clear difference between sexes. All crocodiles were most active from late afternoon (1500–1800 hours) until midnight. Individual home ranges (RCA) overlapped considerably during the late dry/mid-wet season. The extent of home-range overlap between three adult males and the number of times they either passed each other or were located near each other was particularly striking. Previous research has come to conflicting conclusions about the extent of territoriality in wild estuarine crocodiles, although it has been widely believed that males are highly territorial. The findings imply that large adult male estuarine crocodiles are not highly territorial in non-tidal freshwater systems that are geographically confined.
Conservation of birds in evergreen Chilean forests: the effect of partial cutting systems
Authors: Vergara Pablo M. , Schlatter Roberto P.
Published: April 2008

Current legislation in Chile allows two alternative regeneration methods for evergreen forest: heavy shelterwood (retaining 30% of the basal area at the time of regeneration harvest) and strip cutting. We compared bird abundance among four stands: two evergreen forest stands managed with these cutting systems, an undisturbed stand and a light shelterwood stand (with a retention level of 65%). Eight out of 15 species, in addition to total bird abundance, were affected by partial cutting. Light shelterwood tended to be the treatment with the smaller negative effect on bird abundance, reducing the abundance of only two species, possibly due to the loss of the understorey vegetation. Nevertheless, the abundance of three species of trunk and foliage gleaners, as well as total bird abundance, decreased only in the heavy shelterwood and the strip cut stands. Further, the abundance of trunk and foliage gleaners was greater in the light shelterwood stand than in the other cutting stands, indicating that these species are particularly sensitive to partial cutting with low retention levels. Therefore, in order to reduce the detrimental effect of partial cutting systems on the evergreen forest birds, we suggest the use of shelterwood cutting with a retention level higher than 50% of the standing basal area at the time of the regeneration harvest.
Food habits of feral cats (Felis silvestris catus L.) in insular semiarid environments (Fuerteventura, Canary Islands)
Authors: Medina Félix M. , López-Darias Marta , Nogales Manuel , García Rafael
Published: April 2008

In this study, we present the first data on diet and impacts of feral cats on a semiarid island (Fuerteventura, Canary Islands). A total of 614 prey was identified in the 209 scats analysed. Introduced mammals, especially rabbits and mice, were the most consumed vertebrate prey and constituted more than 90% of biomass. Barbary ground squirrels, Algerian hedgehogs, and rats were preyed upon less even though they were abundant on the island. Invertebrates, mainly Orthoptera, Coleoptera, Hymenoptera and Odonata, were the second most important prey items (in terms of actual numbers) but they contributed only minimally with respect to biomass (<1.1%). The presence of terrestrial molluscs in the diet was interesting because they are a rare prey in an insular context. Birds and reptiles occurred at a low frequency. A total of 677 seeds was counted, mainly belonging to Lycium intricatum (Solanaceae) and two unidentified plant species. Levin’s niche breadth was narrow due to the high consumption of mammals. Morisita’s index showed a similar trophic overlap in diet with respect to the other xeric habitats of the Canarian archipelago. Considering that more than 90% of biomass corresponded to introduced mammals, we conclude that feral cats are not having a large direct impact on the native prey species.
Habitat structure influences the presence of sand skinks (Plestiodon reynoldsi) in altered habitats
Authors: Pike David A. , Peterman Kelley S. , Exum Jay H.
Published: April 2008

We studied a fossorial endemic lizard (the sand skink, Plestiodon reynoldsi) to determine habitat structural and vegetation associations in altered habitats at micro-, local, and macroscales. Lizards were present in each of the structural categories and vegetation types we studied, although active orange groves negatively influenced distribution and relative density (determined as the proportion of coverboards within a sampling plot containing signs of sand skink presence). Conversely, relative densities were highest in forested habitats, which contain structural features similar to natural habitats. Sand skinks readily used the two soil types at our site, although the greatest densities were in sampling plots containing both types. We conclude that conditions are suitable for sand skink habitation within a variety of habitats with different structures, including those altered by humans. However, in all cases the underlying soil was also loose and dry, making fossorial locomotion possible for this species. Three lines of evidence suggest that populations in altered habitats were resident, rather than transient: (1) sand skinks are still present in altered habitats more than 35 skink generations after alteration occurred; (2) there was no relationship between sand skink density and distance to natural habitat; and (3) a very small portion of our site (<2%) consisted of natural habitat, which is most likely too small to be a long-term source population to nearby altered habitats. Our results indicate that although P. reynoldsi is often considered habitat-specific, this notion may be due to focusing sampling efforts on natural rather than disturbed habitats. Therefore, relying on preconceived notions of habitat associations may not be sufficient to understand the ecological relationships and local-scale distribution of this threatened species. Using such misinformation may lead to the design and implementation of inadequate conservation plans that ignore altered habitats in which focal species occur.
Application of decision theory to conservation management: recovery of Hector's dolphin
Authors: Conroy Michael J. , Barker Richard J. , Dillingham Peter W. , Fletcher David , Gormley Andrew M. , Westbrooke Ian M.
Published: April 2008

Decision theory provides an organised approach to decision making in natural resource conservation. The theory requires clearly stated objectives, decision alternatives and decision-outcome utilities, and thus allows for the separation of values (conservation and other societal objectives) from beliefs. Models express belief in the likely response of the system to conservation actions, and can range from simple, graphical representations to complex computer models. Models can be used to make predictions about likely decision-outcomes, and hence guide decision making. Decision making must account for uncertainty, which can be reduced but never eliminated. Uncertainty can be described via probabilities, which in turn can be used to compute the expected value of alternative decisions, averaging over all relevant sources of uncertainty. Reduction of uncertainty, where possible, improves decision making. Adaptive management involves the reduction of uncertainty via prediction under two or more alternative, structural models, comparison of model predictions to monitoring, and feedback via Bayes’ Theorem into revising model weights, which in turn influences decision making. As part of a 3-day workshop on structured decision making (SDM) and adaptive resource management (ARM), we constructed a prototypical decision model for the recovery for Hector’s dolphin (Cephalorynchus hectori), an endangered dolphin endemic to New Zealand coastal waters. Our model captures several steps in the process of building an SDM/ARM framework, and should be useful for managers wishing to apply these principles to dolphin conservation or other resources problems.
A seasonally dependent change in the distribution and physiological condition of Caiman crocodilus yacare in the Paraguay River Basin
Authors: Campbell Hamish A. , Micheli Mariana A. , Abe Augusto
Published: April 2008

The distribution and physiological condition of 116 Caiman crocodilus yacare was assessed over one year in the Southern Pantanal. Body mass and intermediary plasma metabolites were measured at three different time periods, representing large differences in the abundance of surface water. During the wet season the study site was completely submerged under water and C.c. yacare were distributed evenly throughout. High levels of [glucose] and [triglyceride] in the plasma indicated regular feeding. As the dry season progressed C.c. yacare became increasingly crowded around the remaining ponds. They showed a reduction in plasma [glucose] and [triglyceride], and an increase in plasma [β-hydroxy-butyrate], signifying that they were feeding less and utilising fat reserves. At this sampling period, ~40% of the male C. c. yacare that were >10 years old inhabited dry grassland and did not have access to water. These animals were significantly lighter than males of a similar length that had immediate water access, and plasma [uric acid] indicated that they had not fed for a long time and were metabolising tissue proteins. Essentially, the adult male C.c. yacare that inhabited dry grassland were in a state of energy deficiency. This was so severe in some animals that recovery seemed unlikely. The study suggests that fluctuations in the abundance of surface ground water may influence the size and structure of the C. c. yacare population in the Pantanal.
A perfect match: decoding employee engagement – Part I: Engaging cultures and leaders
Authors: de Mello e Souza Wildermuth Cristina , Pauken Patrick David
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this two‐part article is to introduce engagement and review key research on engagement‐related factors.

Design/methodology/approach

The author conducted a literature search on employee engagement and pilot interviews with ten professionals.

Findings

Environment, leadership, job, and individual factors are connected to employee engagement. Environmental engagement factors include congruency between organizational and individual values, the quality of the workplace relationships, and work‐life balance. Leadership engagement factors include vision and integrity. Job engagement factors include the meaningfulness of the job, itsw level of challenge, and the amount of control the employee has on the job. Finally, individual factors related to engagement include resilience, locus of control, active coping style, self‐esteem, neuroticism, and extraversion. The author suggests that the connections (or the match) between organizational, leadership, job, and individual characteristics is particularly relevant for engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The article includes a preliminary investigation of engagement. Further research is needed connecting environmental, leadership, job, and individual engagement factors, and confieming the importance of the “match” for engagement.

Practical implications

The implications are that leaders should be educated on engagement, that career development opportunities are particularly important, that performance improvement professional should champion work‐life balance, and that initiatives enhancing workplace relationships are likely useful to increase engagement.

Originality/value

This paper connects research on various engagement factors, making it easier for performance improvement professional to gain an introductory yet holistic view of the topic.
Service delivery reform within the Canadian public sector 1990‐2002
Authors: Foley Janice
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine to what extent service delivery in the Canadian federal government actually improved after a decade of reform efforts, and how employee empowerment accounted for any improvements that arose.

Design/methodology/approach

Five focus group interviews were conducted in 2002 with federal government employees involved in service delivery. Interview transcripts were content analyzed. The employee empowerment and service quality literatures, including critical perspectives, provide the theoretical underpinnings of the study.

Findings

Productivity and service enhancement did materialize, but little empowerment occurred. Work intensification was revealed. The shortcomings of applying private sector‐style definitions of productivity to the public sector were identified.

Research limitations/implications

Study findings have limited generalizability due to small sample size. Findings must be verified through additional research. Comparative findings from countries that introduced service reforms more comprehensively than did Canada would be of interest.

Practical implications

Public sector efforts to improve service delivery should address possible material barriers affecting service delivery and pay more attention to employee needs. The efficacy of quantitative performance targets should be re‐examined.

Originality/value

The outcomes of a public service reform initiative intended to improve service quality by allegedly empowering front‐line workers are presented from an employee perspective. As there is limited empirical research done on this topic from that perspective it should be of general interest to researchers in the fields of public policy and human resources management.
Interdependent supply relationships as institutions: the role of HR practices
Authors: Koulikoff‐Souviron Marie , Harrison Alan
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to use institutional theory to explore the role of human resource (HR) practices as carriers in the evolution of interdependent supply relationships.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a qualitative study of an inter‐firm supply relationship where the two partners were interdependent as a result of a “closed loop” supply relationship. The paper explores the perspectives of employees at multiple levels within both partners, and collects pluralist evidence from 36 interviewees from both sides of the dyad. It collects documentary evidence such as minutes, contractual agreements and HR documents. This paper re‐analyses the evidence from earlier work using an institutional theory framework.

Findings

Using Scott's “three pillars” the paper shows that HR practices can act as carriers of regulative, normative and cultural‐cognitive elements in interdependent supply relationships through both formal and informal mechanisms. Regulative elements were less evident, but could be fundamental in shaping the other two. A tension was found between institutional pressures at the inter‐ and intra‐firm levels, an emergence of innovative practices and new routines at inter‐organizational level, and an evolution over time that could involve a de‐institutionalisation of the relationship as a result of internal priorities competing with the resource requirements of the supply relationship.

Originality/value

The paper addresses the interface between OM and organisational theory. Areas are proposed where institutionalisation of a supply relationship can be strengthened or weakened. The findings further challenge the view of supply relationships as a “spectrum” in which progress is unidirectional over time.
RFID in the contemporary supply chain: multiple perspectives on its benefits and risks
Authors: Cannon Alan R. , Reyes Pedro M. , Frazier Gregory V. , Prater Edmund L.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to point to established theory bases from other disciplines that may be used to illustrate the benefits, complexities and risks accompanying the adoption of radio‐frequency identification (RFID) technology.

Design/methodology/approach

Three theory streams are explored with respect to RFID adoption at two levels: the level of the tagged unit; and the level of the adopting firm. Each theory stream is evaluated specifically with respect to RFID, and research questions are proposed.

Findings

A variety of theoretical disciplines bring to light tension between uncertainty that spurs RFID adoption and uncertainty that accompanies RFID adoption.

Practical implications

Insights are provided for managers wrestling with: the question of whether and/or how to adopt RFID; or concerns regarding the implications of their decision to adopt RFID. In addition, the theory bases explored in this research offer guidance regarding risks that accompany RFID adoption but are not commonly considered.

Originality/value

For those contemplating adoption of, or research into, RFID technology, the paper offers a detailed synthesis of valuable theory streams, as well as promising research questions.
Notes from Educause 2007: On the Subject of Leadership
Authors: Cohen Barbara L.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the conference, “Educause 2007”.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an overview of the presentations made at the conference.

Findings

Several of the sessions were noteworthy for their focus on leadership.

Originality/value

The paper provides a valuable review of the conference, focusing on the subject of leadership.
A conceptual case‐based model for knowledge sharing among supply chain members
Authors: Wang Chengbo , Fergusson Craig , Perry Daniel , Antony Jiju
Published: April 2008

Purpose

A successful supply chain should ensure that all participating members benefit from the marketplace. To achieve this goal, the supply chain members need to improve their competences all the time, which requires a continuous learning process. Thus, mutual learning, through knowledge sharing between the different members, is a necessary approach to increase the competence of supply chain partners. To realise efficient and effective knowledge sharing in a supply chain, this paper aims to explore and formulate a model that supports an enterprise with its management of the supply chain members' knowledge resource sharing (herein referred to as “advanced practice” and includes two levels of knowledge – strategic and operational). The model is based on the theories of supply chain management (SCM) and case‐based reasoning (CBR).

Design/methodology/approach

This research follows a conductive and inductive cycle. Firstly, based on the learning expounded through an extensive literature survey regarding SCM and CBR, as well as available empirical applications, the conceptual model is designed. Then the primary stage evaluation will be discussed regarding the feasibility and refinement of the model towards its maturity.

Findings

To share knowledge along the supply chain is theoretically sound, but a difficult task to realise in practice, due to the complexity of knowledge sharing between the different organizations.

Research limitations/implications

This research explores one of the important topics in SCM – knowledge sharing within a supply chain, and the model also extends and explores a new tool for this knowledge‐sharing process by applying CBR methodology.

Practical implications

The designed model in this research will provide a practice‐oriented vehicle allowing the supply chain members to share and apply their knowledge.

Originality/value

This research applies CBR in the domain of SCM, it both enriches the available approaches to supply chain performance enhancement and enlarges the application domains of CBR methodology.
The island factor as a growth booster for nations: a mental advantage econometrically revealed
Authors: Aubert Jean‐Eric , Chen Derek H.C.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to postulate that countries which are either geographical or cultural islands, (defined as countries that are surrounded by neighboring countries that do not speak the same language), tend to experience higher rates of economic growth, all other things being equal.

Design/methodology/approach

Using historical macroeconomic data for a large number of countries and statistical growth regressions that include island dummy variables as explanatory variables, this paper shows that there is econometric evidence supporting the theory of the island factor.

Findings

The findings highlight the importance of a cohesive society with a strong sense of identity while being economically open to global competitive forces. This island mindset acts as a catalyst for enhanced economic growth.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors' knowledge, the island factor is a new and untested hypothesis. Moreover, the paper contributes to the literature on cultural diversity and growth by showing that cultural diversity among neighboring countries is an important factor for economic development.
Locating large‐scale harbour‐front project developments using SIR method with grey aggregation approach
Authors: Tam Chi‐Ming , Tong Thomas K.L.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a variant of superiority and inferiority ranking (SIR) method called SIR‐Grey for determining the location of large‐scale harbour‐front project development.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is illustrated with an application example obtained from the Environmental Protection Department of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region to demonstrate the concept and application procedure of SIR‐Grey. The strengths and weaknesses of SIR‐Grey are highlighted when compared with the traditional weighted average approach.

Findings

The strengths and weaknesses of SIR‐Grey are highlighted when compared with the traditional weighted average approach. Among the strengths, the global comparison scores of SIR‐Grey can give a clearer and easier comprehensible algorithm. Further, the global comparison generated from superiority flows (S‐flows) [S‐flow: A is preferred to A′(AP>A′) or A is indifferent to A′(AI>A′)] and inferiority flows (I‐flows) [I‐flow: A is preferred to A′(AP<A′) or A is indifferent to A′(AI<A′)] can be used to select a solution matching the nature of the problem; e.g. a conservative approach can adopt the ranking from I‐flow because the selected option will have the criteria farthest from the virtual worst site while the ranking from S‐flow can be adopted for an aggressive approach because the final decision will have the criteria closest to the virtual perfect site. Regarding the weaknesses, the major one is the requirement of a full appreciation of the nature of criteria in setting the thresholds and preference structure, which may complicate the application of the model.

Originality/value

This study proposes a variant of SIR method called SIR‐Grey for determining the location of large‐scale harbour‐front project development. This approach can overcome the problem encountered in using other methods which could lead to variation in the final ranking and hence an inconsistent result.
Next generation leaders
Authors: Pardey David
Published: April 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a brief historical perspective of leadership and management theories in the twentieth century to demonstrate that those theories are still prevalent today and underpin the latest “revolutionary” leadership models.

Design/methodology/approach

Research carried out by AQR Ltd, a provider of assessment products, and a team from the University of Hull headed by Dr Peter Clough looked to map a leader's style as a tool for matching it to organizational requirements. This research was carried out with support from the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM). The research included a review of existing leadership models and primary data collection from nearly 2,000 practicing leaders and managers.

Findings

The data collected were analyzed to produce six dimensions that form the Integrated Leadership Measure (ILM72), which represents different types of management behavior: task v. person; flexible v. dogmatic; de‐centralized v. centralized; reward v. punishment; the means v. the end; and structured v. organic. The research found that how a particular leader behaves at any time in any situation depends on their personal preferences, but also on the organization and its culture. The research also identified three global values that people want from their leadership: determination to deliver; individual cohesion; and team cohesion.

Practical implications

Training and development activities can be used to help people become more effective leaders, however if the organization limits their ability to use this learning they will become frustrated. Leadership style and organizational requirements need to be aligned.

Originality/value

The author suggests that there is very little new in terms of leadership ideas; the challenge of today and the future is to adapt leadership styles to fast changing business environments.
The role of trust in franchise organizations
Authors: Dickey Michael H. , Harrison McKnight D. , George Joey F.
Published: April 2008

Purpose

This study aims to examine how two types of trust affect five key franchisee attitudes/behaviors within a setting where franchisees have strong contractual ties to the franchisor. The five attitudes/behaviors are: identification and satisfaction with the franchisor, compliance and non‐compliance with franchisor directives, and perceived relationship quality. These attitudes/behaviors were chosen because research has found each to affect franchise performance.

Design/methodology/approach

The model in the paper features two trusting beliefs that influence attitudes/behaviors. The study gathers US franchisee questionnaire data then analyzes the model using partial least squares techniques.

Findings

Trusting belief‐competence was found to reduce non‐compliance with the franchisor, and also increase identification with the franchisor. Both trusting belief‐competence and trusting belief‐honesty were found to enhance satisfaction with the franchisor and perceived relationship quality. Neither of these two trusting beliefs was found to influence compliance with franchisor directives. Perceived mutual commitment appears to strongly influence both trusting beliefs, whereas length of time as a franchisee does not.

Research limitations/implications

The findings support relational contracting theory, showing that even within a contract, trust exerts a significant influence on vital franchisee attitudes. Other research shows these attitudes/behaviors influence franchise performance, though the present study does not measure performance.

Practical implications

The results suggest franchisee trust is key to the ongoing franchise relationship. Hence, franchisors should try to build franchisee trust. They can do so by enhancing mutual commitment and by supplying well‐conceived new products and marketing campaigns.

Originality/value

This study clearly shows the value of franchisee trust and suggests several ways to build it.
PPE protein (Rv3425) from DNA segment RD11 of Mycobacterium tuberculosis: a novel immunodominant antigen of Mycobacterium tuberculosis induces humoral and cellular immune responses in mice
Authors: Wang Jiuling , Qie Yaqing , Zhang Hongmei , Zhu Bingdong , Xu Ying , Liu Wei , Chen Jiazhen , Wang Honghai
Published: April 2008

Subtractive DNA hybridization of pathogenic M. bovis and BCG, and comparative genome‐wide DNA microarray analysis of M. tuberculosis H37Rv and BCG identified several RD, designated as RD1 to RD16, between M. tuberculosis and M. bovis on the one hand and BCG on the other. These regions cover 108 ORF of M. tuberculosis H37Rv, and are deleted from all 13 BCG sub‐strains currently used as anti‐tuberculosis vaccines in different parts of the world. In this study, we evaluated cellular and humoral immune response in C57BL/6 mice immunized with the PPE protein Rv3425, encoded by an ORF found in RD11 of M. tuberculosis. Rv3425 protein induced an increased Th1/Th2 type immune response in mice, characterized by an elevated concentration of IFN‐γ in antigen stimulated splenocyte culture and a strong IgG1 antibody response. These results provide evidence on the immunogenicity of the PPE protein Rv3425 which, together with its reported immunodominant characteristics, imply that it may be a candidate for development of a vaccine for the control of TB.
A simple and rapid immunochromatographic test kit for rabies diagnosis
Authors: Nishizono Akira , Khawplod Pakamatz , Ahmed Kamruddin , Goto Kazuyo , Shiota Seiji , Mifune Kumato , Yasui Takehito , Takayama Katsuyoshi , Kobayashi Yukuharu , Mannen Kazuaki , Tepsumethanon Veera , Mitmoonpitak Chanarong , Inoue Satoshi , Morimoto Kinjiro
Published: April 2008

In rabies endemic countries, funds and infrastructure are often insufficient to employ the approved gold standard for the definitive diagnosis of rabies: the direct fluorescent test. In the present study, two types (type 1 and 2) of an ICT kit were evaluated for detection of rabies. These were developed using monoclonal antibodies which recognize epitope II and III of the nucleoprotein of rabies virus. Both kits specifically detected all rabies virus strains and there was no cross reactivity with Lyssaviruses (Lagos, Mokola and Duvenhage), Rhabdovirus (VSV and Oita 296/1972) and other common canine‐pathogenic viruses. In type 1, a single type of monoclonal antibody was used. It was capable of detecting recombinant nucleoprotein and showed sensitivity of 95.5% (42/44) and specificity of 88.9% (32/36) using brain samples from rabid dogs. In contrast, type 2 which was made of two different monoclonal antibodies had a lower sensitivity of 93.2% (41/44) and higher specificity of 100% (36/36). These ICT kits provide a simple and rapid method for rabies detection. They need neither cold chain for transportation nor complicated training for personnel. This diagnostic test is suitable for rabies screening, particularly in areas with a high prevalence of rabies and where the fluorescent antibody test is not available.
High level serum neutralizing antibody against HIV‐1 in Chinese long‐term non‐progressors
Authors: Wang Qian , Shang Hong , Han Xiaoxu , Zhang Zining , Jiang Yongjun , Wang Yanan , Dai Di , Diao Yingying
Published: April 2008

NAb have been considered to be an important component of a protective immune response to HIV‐1, yet the relationship between the capacity of HIV‐1 NAb, the conserved neutralization epitopes and disease progression has been unclear. To gain a better understanding of the protective roles that NAb and conserved neutralization epitopes could play in LTNP, twenty‐eight HIV‐1‐infected subjects were investigated by evaluation of the concentrations of HIV‐1 NAb and conserved neutralization epitopes, using single‐round PBMC neutralization assay and sequencing. Our study revealed that the concentration of NAb in LTNP was significantly higher than that in subjects with asymptomatic HIV (P < 0.05) and AIDS (P < 0.01). No amino acids substitutions were found in the conserved epitopes of the HIV‐1 gp120 region in LTNP, whereas the viruses circulating both in persons with asymptomatic HIV and those with AIDS had amino acid substitutions in their conserved neutralization epitopes. This study suggests that high levels of NAb and stable epitopes in gp120 could play a crucial role in protection against disease progression.
Transcriptome analysis of high‐temperature adult‐plant resistance conditioned by Yr39 during the wheat–Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici interaction
Authors: CORAM TRISTAN E. , SETTLES MATTHEW L. , CHEN XIANMING
Published: April 2008

Stripe rust [caused by Puccinia striiformis Westend. f. sp. tritici Eriks. (Pst)] is a destructive disease of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) worldwide. High‐temperature adult‐plant (HTAP) resistance to stripe rust is race non‐specific, inherited quantitatively and durable. Previously, we identified and mapped the single Yr39 HTAP stripe rust resistance gene in the spring wheat cultivar Alpowa, which was identified on chromosome 7BL and accounted for 64.2% of the variation in resistance. To identify transcripts associated with Yr39‐mediated resistance, we selected two F7 recombinant inbred lines (RILs) from an ‘Avocet S/Alpowa’ cross that differed at the Yr39 locus to represent an incompatible (Yr39) and compatible (yr39) interaction with Pst. Using the Affymetrix Wheat GeneChip, we profiled the transcript changes occurring in flag leaves of these two RILs over a time‐course after treatment with Pst urediniospores and mock‐inoculation. This time‐course study identified 99 induced transcripts that were classified as HTAP resistance‐specific. The temporal pattern of transcript accumulation showed a peak at 48 h after infection, which was supported by microscopic observation of fungal development and quantitative PCR assays that showed a rapid increase in fungal biomass after this time in the compatible interaction. More than half (50.5%) of the annotated transcripts specifically induced during HTAP resistance were involved in defence and/or signal transduction, including R gene homologues and transcripts associated with pathogenesis‐related protein production, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and protein kinase signalling. This study represents the first transcript profiling of HTAP resistance to stripe rust in wheat, and we compare our results with other transcript studies of race‐specific and race non‐specific resistance.
Histological and molecular analysis of Rdg2a barley resistance to leaf stripe
Authors: HAEGI ANITA , BONARDI VERA , DALL’AGLIO ELENA , GLISSANT DAVID , TUMINO GIORGIO , COLLINS NICHOLAS C. , BULGARELLI DAVIDE , INFANTINO ALESSANDRO , STANCA A. MICHELE , DELLEDONNE MASSIMO , VALÈ GIAMPIERO
Published: April 2008

Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) leaf stripe is caused by the seed‐borne fungus Pyrenophora graminea. We investigated microscopically and molecularly the reaction of barley embryos to leaf stripe inoculation. In the resistant genotype NIL3876‐Rdg2a, fungal growth ceased at the scutellar node of the embryo, while in the susceptible near‐isogenic line (NIL) Mirco‐rdg2a fungal growth continued past the scutellar node and into the embryo. Pathogen‐challenged embryos of resistant and susceptible NILs showed different levels of UV autofluorescence and toluidine blue staining, indicating differential accumulation of phenolic compounds. Suppression subtractive hybridization and cDNA amplified fragment‐length polymorphism (AFLP) analyses of embryos identified P. graminea‐induced and P. graminea‐repressed barley genes. In addition, cDNA‐AFLP analysis identified six pathogenicity‐associated fungal genes expressed during barley infection but at low to undetectable levels during growth on artificial media. Microarrays representing the entire set of differentially expressed cDNA‐AFLP fragments and 100 barley homologues of previously described defence‐related genes were used to study gene expression changes at 7 and 14 days after inoculation in the resistant and susceptible NILs. A total of 171 significantly modulated barley genes were identified and assigned to four groups based on timing and genotype dependence of expression. Analysis of the changes in gene expression during the barley resistance response to leaf stripe suggests that the Rdg2a‐mediated response includes cell‐wall reinforcement, signal transduction, generation of reactive oxygen species, cell protection, jasmonate signalling and expression of plant effector genes. The identification of genes showing leaf stripe inoculation or resistance‐dependent expression sets the stage for further dissection of the resistance response of barley embryo cells to leaf stripe.
Spironolactone use and the risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding: a population‐based case–control study
Authors: Gulmez Sinem E. , Lassen Annmarie T. , Aalykke Claus , Dall Michael , Andries Alin , Andersen Birthe S. , Hansen Jane M. , Andersen Morten , Hallas Jesper
Published: April 2008

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Recent studies have suggested an increased risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGB) in spironolactone users.

• We conducted this population‐based case–control study to confirm the association between spironolactone use and acute nonvaricose UGB alone or in combination with low‐dose aspirin and other antithrombotic drugs.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• The current use of spironolactone is associated with an increased risk of nonvaricose UGB.

• The effect is most pronounced for cases aged 55–74 years.

• Persons with a high current dose have a higher risk.

• The risk is not modified by high cumulative doses or by concurrent use of antithrombotic or nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs.

AIMS

Recent studies have suggested an increased risk of upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGB) in spironolactone users. The aim was to confirm the association, identify the risk factors and quantify the absolute risk.

METHODS

A population based case–control study was conducted in the County of Funen, Denmark. Cases (n = 3652) were all subjects with a first discharge diagnosis of serious UGB during the period 1995 to 2006. Age‐ and gender‐matched controls (10 for each case) (n = 36 502) were selected by risk set sampling. Data on all subjects' drug exposure and past medical history were retrieved from a prescription database and from the County's patient register. Confounders were controlled by conditional logistic regression.

RESULTS

The adjusted odds ratio (OR) associating current use of spironolactone with UGB was 2.7 [95% confidence interval (CI) 2.2, 3.2]. The risk increased with higher doses of spironolactone (5.4; 3.4, 8.6) for 100‐mg tablets. No trend was found with increasing cumulative dose. The strongest association was found among users aged 55‐74 years (OR 13.1; 6.5, 26.3). Current use of loop diuretics was also associated with an increased risk of UGB (1.9; 1.7, 2.1).

CONCLUSION

The use of spironolactone is associated with increased risk of UGB. The risk increases with higher doses.