bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nonlinear quantum equations: Classical field theory
Authors: Rego-Monteiro M. A. , Nobre F. D.
Published: October 2013

An exact classical field theory for nonlinear quantum equations is presented herein. It has been applied recently to a nonlinear Schrödinger equation, and it is shown herein to hold also for a nonlinear generalization of the Klein-Gordon equation. These generalizations were carried by introducing nonlinear terms, characterized by exponents depending on an index q, in such a way that the standard, linear equations, are recovered in the limit q → 1. The main characteristic of this field theory consists on the fact that besides the usual \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Psi (\vec{x},t)$\end{document}Ψ(x⃗,t), a new field \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Phi (\vec{x},t)$\end{document}Φ(x⃗,t) needs to be introduced in the Lagrangian, as well. The field \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Phi (\vec{x},t)$\end{document}Φ(x⃗,t), which is defined by means of an additional equation, becomes \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Psi ^{*}(\vec{x},t)$\end{document}Ψ*(x⃗,t) only when q → 1. The solutions for the fields \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Psi (\vec{x},t)$\end{document}Ψ(x⃗,t) and \documentclass[12pt]{minimal}\begin{document}$\Phi (\vec{x},t)$\end{document}Φ(x⃗,t) are found herein, being expressed in terms of a q-plane wave; moreover, both field equations lead to the relation E2 = p2c2 + m2c4, for all values of q. The fact that such a classical field theory works well for two very distinct nonlinear quantum equations, namely, the Schrödinger and Klein-Gordon ones, suggests that this procedure should be appropriate for a wider class nonlinear equations. It is shown that the standard global gauge invariance is broken as a consequence of the nonlinearity.
Diffusion coefficient, correlation function, and power spectral density of velocity fluctuations in monolayer graphene
Authors: Rengel R. , Martín M. J.
Published: October 2013

In this paper, the diffusivity in suspended monolayer graphene at low and high electric fields is investigated. The knowledge of this quantity and its dependence on the electric field is of primary importance not only for the investigation of the electronic transport properties of this material but also for the development of accurate drift-diffusion models. The results have been obtained by means of an ensemble Monte Carlo simulation. For the calculation of the diffusion coefficient, two different methods are considered, one based on the second central moment and the other one based on the Fourier analysis of velocity fluctuations, which are directly related to the noise behaviour at high frequencies. The diffusion coefficient is analyzed considering both parallel and transversal directions with regard to the applied field. Taking into account the importance of degeneracy in this material, the calculations are properly performed by considering an excess electron population obeying a linearized Boltzmann transport equation, which allows studying in an adequate fashion the diffusivity phenomena. The results show the importance of degeneracy effects at very low fields in which transport is mainly dominated by acoustic phonon scattering. Values of the diffusion coefficient larger than 40 000 cm2/Vs are obtained for a carrier concentration equal to 1012 cm−2. The correlation function of instantaneous velocity fluctuation is explained in terms of the wavevector distribution, and their power spectral density is evaluated in the THz range, showing an important dependence on the applied field and being strongly related to microscopic transport processes.
Electrical properties of high density arrays of silicon nanowire field effect transistors
Authors: Kim Hye-Young , Lee Kangho , Lee Jae Woo , Kim Sangwook , Kim Gyu-Tae , Duesberg Georg S.
Published: October 2013

Proximity effect corrected e-beam lithography of hydrogen silsesquioxane on silicon on insulator was used to fabricate multi-channel silicon nanowire field-effect transistors (SiNW FETs). Arrays of 15-channels with a line width of 18 nm and pitch as small as 50 nm, the smallest reported for electrically functional devices, were fabricated. These high density arrays were back-gated by the substrate and allowed for investigation of the effects of scaling on the electrical performance of this multi-channel SiNW FET. It was revealed that the drain current and the transconductance (gm) are both reduced with decreasing pitch size. The drain induced barrier lowering and the threshold voltage (Vth) are also decreased, whereas the subthreshold swing (S) is increased. The results are in agreement with our simulations of the electric potential profile of the devices. The study contains valuable information on SiNW FET integration and scaling for future devices.
Communication: Nonexistence of a critical point within the Kirkwood superposition approximation
Authors: Piasecki Jarosław , Szymczak Piotr , Kozak John J.
Published: October 2013

An analytic argument is given to show that the application of the Kirkwood superposition approximation to the description of fluid correlation functions precludes the existence of a critical point. The argument holds irrespective of the dimension of the system and the specific form of the interaction potential and settles a long-standing controversy surrounding the nature of the critical behavior predicted within the approximation.
Nonlinear scattering studies of carbon black suspensions using photoacoustic Z-scan technique
Authors: Kislyakov Ivan M. , Yelleswarapu Chandra S.
Published: October 2013

Nonlinear scattering properties of carbon black suspensions (CBS) are studied using nanosecond photoacoustic (PA) and optical z-scan techniques. When the laser is operated in multi-pulse mode, no nonlinear behavior is observed in PAZ-scans. However, in the single-pulse mode, we observed the nonlinear scattering in both PAZ and optical z- scans. Our results are in agreement with the well-known bleaching effect in CBS and demonstrate the importance of pulse repetition frequency for studying nonlinear scattering using photoacoustics. The effective nonlinear extinction coefficients of CBS were determined, and we found that PAZ-scan data are more sensitive and offer information on higher nonlinearities.
Dynamics of ion acoustic double layers in a magnetized two-population electrons plasma
Authors: Shahmansouri M.
Published: October 2013

The obliquely propagating ion acoustic (IA) double-layers are investigated in a magnetized two population electron plasmas. The extended Korteweg–de Vries equation is derived by using the reductive perturbation technique. The effect of obliqueness (lz) and magnitude of the external magnetic field (ωci), as well as the electron number density (β) on the double-layer profile, is studied, and then the ranges of parameters for which the double-layers exist are investigated in detail. We found that the combined effects of lz, ωci, and β significantly modify the basic properties (viz. amplitude and width) of the IA double-layers.
Infrared-sensitive electrochromic device based on VO2
Authors: Nakano M. , Shibuya K. , Ogawa N. , Hatano T. , Kawasaki M. , Iwasa Y. , Tokura Y.
Published: October 2013

The field-effect transistor (FET) provides an electrical switching function of current flowing through a channel surface by external voltage. Here, we report on a field-effect device that enables electrical switching of optical transmittance as well as conventional electrical current. We investigated optical properties of vanadium dioxide (VO2) thin film under the presence of electric field generated at the interface between VO2 and ionic liquid in a FET geometry, and found that the device exhibits clear electrochromic effect with large ON/OFF contrast only in the infrared region, potentially beneficial for energy-saving smart window applications as a voltage-tunable transparent heat-cutting filter.
Nanodome-patterned transparent conductor for highly responsive photoelectric device
Authors: Hong Seung-Hyouk , Yun Ju-Hyung , Park Hyeong-Ho , Kim Joondong
Published: October 2013

An effective light-managing structure has been achieved by using a nano-imprint method. A transparent conductor of indium-tin-oxide (ITO) was periodically nanodome-shaped to have a height of 200 nm with a diameter of 340 nm on a p-type Si substrate. This spontaneously formed a heterojunction between the ITO layer and Si substrate and effectively reduced the light-reflection. The ITO nanodome device response was significantly enhanced to 6010 from the value of 72.9 of a planar ITO film. The transparent conducting ITO nanodome structure efficiently manipulates the incident light driving into the light-absorber and can be applied in various photoelectric applications.
Defect-induced magneto-optic properties of MgO nanoparticles realized as optical-fiber-based low-field magnetic sensor
Authors: Rao Ch. N. , Nakate Umesh T. , Choudhary R. J. , Kale S. N.
Published: October 2013

The spintronic applications of defect-magnetism in oxides have been explored for a long time. However, limited success has been obtained. We report on FCC-structured, magnesium oxide nanoparticles (20 nm) deposited on the mirror-surface of single-mode-optical-fiber as an effective low-field magnetic sensor. These show magnetic behavior and good magneto-optic-Kerr-effect signal. Red-shift phenomenon has been found in the birefringence pattern, when a magnetic field is applied. The sensitivity of red-shift is 202.4 pm/mT. Such red-shift phenomenon is ascribed to the influences of defect-induced magnetism on the optical-wave propagation.
Phagocytosis executes delayed neuronal death after focal brain ischemia
Authors: Neher Jonas J. , Emmrich Julius V. , Fricker Michael , Mander Palwinder K. , Théry Clotilde , Brown Guy C.
Published: October 2013

Significance

Brain ischemia is a major cause of death and disability worldwide, but the cellular mechanisms of delayed neuronal loss and brain atrophy after cerebral ischemia are poorly understood and thus currently untreatable. Surprisingly, we find that after cerebral ischemia, brain macrophages phagocytose viable and functional neurons, causing brain atrophy and motor dysfunction. Our data show that delayed neuronal death and functional impairment after cerebral ischemia can be prevented by blocking specific phagocytic pathways, and therefore highlight new therapeutic targets for stroke and dementia.
Humanized mouse model of glucose 6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency for in vivo assessment of hemolytic toxicity
Authors: Rochford Rosemary , Ohrt Colin , Baresel Paul C. , Campo Brice , Sampath Aruna , Magill Alan J. , Tekwani Babu L. , Walker Larry A.
Published: October 2013

Significance

This article describes the development and validation of a novel mouse model that can be used to predict hemolytic toxicity of drugs that occurs in individuals with an enzyme deficiency known as glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD) deficiency. G6PD deficiency affects more than 400 million people worldwide. In this model, nonobese diabetic/SCID mice are transfused with human RBCs from G6PD-deficient donors. Treatment with drugs known to cause hemolytic anemia in humans do not cause damage to the mouse RBCs nor to the transfused normal human RBCs; but a robust hemolytic response is observed in the mice transfused with G6PD-deficient human RBCs. The immediate impact of this model will be in advancing the development antimalarial drugs.
Impact of trehalose transporter knockdown onAnopheles gambiaestress adaptation and susceptibility toPlasmodium falciparuminfection
Authors: Liu Kun , Dong Yuemei , Huang Yuzheng , Rasgon Jason L. , Agre Peter
Published: October 2013

Significance

The trehalose transporter inAnopheles gambiae(AgTreT1) is shown here to be important for mosquito adaptation to environmental stresses and malaria infection. As expected sinceAgTreT1 transports trehalose from site of synthesis in fat body to hemolymph, silencing of AgTreT1 reduces hemolymph trehalose concentration. More importantly,AgTreT1-silenced mosquitoes exhibit shorter survival under desiccation or elevated temperature, and these mosquitoes also harbor fewer parasites after an infectious bloodmeal. We conclude thatAgTreT1 is critical to maintain hemolymph trehalose concentration and is a positive mediator for parasite growth. ThusAgTreT1 can be a potential target for interruption of malaria transmission.
Changes in ecosystem resilience detected in automated measures of ecosystem metabolism during a whole-lake manipulation
Authors: Batt Ryan D. , Carpenter Stephen R. , Cole Jonathan J. , Pace Michael L. , Johnson Robert A.
Published: October 2013

Significance

Large changes can occur when ecosystems cross certain thresholds. Crossing such thresholds poses a challenge to ecosystem management because the positions of the threshold are uncertain and change over time. However, as an ecosystem approaches a threshold its resilience declines, resulting in changes in system dynamics that increase variance and autocorrelation. Calculating these statistics requires frequent and sustained sampling efforts. Our study detected an approaching threshold by computing the statistical indicators from data collected by automated sensors, which are far less labor-intensive than comparable manual methods. Thus it may be feasible to monitor for approaching ecosystem thresholds using automated methods. This finding highlights a powerful use of modern sensor technology.
Use and accuracy of verb complements in English L2 speech
Authors: Vercellotti Mary Lou , de Jong Nel
Published: October 2013

The verb complement structure (VC) poses difficulties for L2 learners since English verbs vary on which type of complement they require or allow, and this variability may impact acquisition. Although theoretical papers have discussed this structure, few papers describe the language performance of L2 learners. In addition, only rarely is oral production analyzed. To address this gap, we examined infinitival and gerundival VCs produced in free production speech by high-intermediate learners of English as a second language with mixed language backgrounds. Importantly, we explored the constructions by the VC produced and by the matrix verb requirements which has been underreported. Both aspects are necessary to understand what makes a VC attempt incorrect. These learners produced many VC constructions but not always correctly. The majority of the errors in VC usage involved either using neither marker or using both, even with matrix verbs which allow either VC.
Language policy and language education in the Netherlands and Romania
Authors: Kuiken Folkert , van der Linden Elisabeth
Published: October 2013

The European Union encourages all its citizens to be able to speak two languages in addition to their mother tongue. However, since the content of educational systems is the responsibility of individual member states, promoting multilingualism depends on the language policy of each member state. Still, countries may learn from practices and experiences in other countries. The similarities and differences between two case studies may be instructive from that point of view. In this paper, language policy and language education in two EU member states are compared with each other: the Netherlands on the one hand and Romania on the other. Questions that will be raised are: what are the linguistic rights of the minority groups, which languages are taught to whom, and to which degree is multilingualism an issue in both countries? Despite differences between the two countries, some striking similarities are observed.
Notch3 marks clonogenic mammary luminal progenitor cells in vivo
Authors: Lafkas Daniel , Rodilla Veronica , Huyghe Mathilde , Mourao Larissa , Kiaris Hippokratis , Fre Silvia
Published: October 2013

The identity of mammary stem and progenitor cells remains poorly understood, mainly as a result of the lack of robust markers. The Notch signaling pathway has been implicated in mammary gland development as well as in tumorigenesis in this tissue. Elevated expression of the Notch3 receptor has been correlated to the highly aggressive “triple negative” human breast cancer. However, the specific cells expressing this Notch paralogue in the mammary gland remain unknown. Using a conditionally inducible Notch3-CreERT2SAT transgenic mouse, we genetically marked Notch3-expressing cells throughout mammary gland development and followed their lineage in vivo. We demonstrate that Notch3 is expressed in a highly clonogenic and transiently quiescent luminal progenitor population that gives rise to a ductal lineage. These cells are capable of surviving multiple successive pregnancies, suggesting a capacity to self-renew. Our results also uncover a role for the Notch3 receptor in restricting the proliferation and consequent clonal expansion of these cells.
Effect of Climate on the Distribution of Fusarium spp. Causing Crown Rot of Wheat in the Pacific Northwest of the United States
Authors: Poole Grant J. , Smiley Richard W. , Walker Carl , Huggins David , Rupp Richard , Abatzoglou John , Garland-Campbell Kimberly , Paulitz Timothy C.
Published: October 2013

Fusarium crown rot (FCR) is one of the most widespread root and crown diseases of wheat in the Pacific Northwest (PNW) of the United States. Our objectives were to characterize crown rot severity and distribution throughout the PNW by conducting a survey of 210 fields covering the diverse dryland wheat-producing areas of Washington and Oregon and to utilize a factor analysis statistical approach to determine the effects of climate and geography on species distribution and disease severity. Climatic variables were based on 30-year averages and 2008 and 2009 separately (the 2 years of the survey). Mean annual temperature, mean temperature in the coldest month, mean temperature in the warmest month, mean annual precipitation, snowfall, elevation, soil type, and cropping intensity were highly intercorrelated. The factor analysis of the climate variables resulted in the development of two latent factors that could be used as predictor variables in logistic regression models for the presence or absence of Fusarium spp. and of FCR disease scores. Isolates of Fusarium spp. were recovered from 99% of 105 fields sampled in 2008 and 97% of fields in 2009. There were differences between years for responses of FCR and nodes scores, and isolations of Fusarium pseudograminearum with more significant results in 2008, due to warmer drier weather. Results of the factor analysis showed that the distribution of F. pseudograminearum occurred in a greater frequency in areas of the PNW at lower elevations with lower moisture and higher temperatures in 2008, whereas F. culmorum occurred in greater frequency in areas at higher elevations with moderate to high moisture and cooler temperatures consistently across both years. Disease scores increased with increasing levels of factors 1 (primarily temperature) and 2 (primarily precipitation). Both the frequency of pathogen species and disease scores were influenced by the year, indicating that soilborne pathogens are responsive to short-term changes in environment. This factor analysis approach can be utilized in studies to determine the effects of climate and other environmental (soil, cropping system, and so on) factors on the distribution and severity of root diseases.
Hand before foot? Cortical somatotopy suggests manual dexterity is primitive and evolved independently of bipedalism
Authors: Hashimoto Teruo , Ueno Kenichi , Ogawa Akitoshi , Asamizuya Takeshi , Suzuki Chisato , Cheng Kang , Tanaka Michio , Taoka Miki , Iwamura Yoshiaki , Suwa Gen , Iriki Atsushi
Published: October 2013

People have long speculated whether the evolution of bipedalism in early hominins triggered tool use (by freeing their hands) or whether the necessity of making and using tools encouraged the shift to upright gait. Either way, it is commonly thought that one led to the other. In this study, we sought to shed new light on the origins of manual dexterity and bipedalism by mapping the neural representations in the brain of the fingers and toes of living people and monkeys. Contrary to the ‘hand-in-glove’ notion outlined above, our results suggest that adaptations underlying tool use evolved independently of those required for human bipedality. In both humans and monkeys, we found that each finger was represented separately in the primary sensorimotor cortex just as they are physically separated in the hand. This reflects the ability to use each digit independently, as required for the complex manipulation involved in tool use. The neural mapping of the subjects’ toes differed, however. In the monkeys, the somatotopic representation of the toes was fused, showing that the digits function predominantly as a unit in general grasping. Humans, by contrast, had an independent neurological representation of the big toe (hallux), suggesting association with bipedal locomotion. These observations suggest that the brain circuits for the hand had advanced beyond simple grasping, whereas our primate ancestors were still general arboreal quadrupeds. This early adaptation laid the foundation for the evolution of manual dexterity, which was preserved and enhanced in hominins. In hominins, a separate adaptation, involving the neural separation of the big toe, apparently occurred with bipedality. This accords with the known fossil evidence, including the recently reported hominin fossils which have been dated to 4.4 million years ago.
If at first you don't succeed… Studies of ontogeny shed light on the cognitive demands of habitual tool use
Authors: Meulman E. J. M. , Seed A. M. , Mann J.
Published: October 2013

Many species use tools, but the mechanisms underpinning the behaviour differ between species and even among individuals within species, depending on the variants performed. When considering tool use ‘as adaptation’, an important first step is to understand the contribution made by fixed phenotypes as compared to flexible mechanisms, for instance learning. Social learning of tool use is sometimes inferred based on variation between populations of the same species but this approach is questionable. Specifically, alternative explanations cannot be ruled out because population differences are also driven by genetic and/or environmental factors. To better understand the mechanisms underlying routine but non-universal (i.e. habitual) tool use, we suggest focusing on the ontogeny of tool use and individual variation within populations. For example, if tool-using competence emerges late during ontogeny and improves with practice or varies with exposure to social cues, then a role for learning can be inferred. Experimental studies help identify the cognitive and developmental mechanisms used when tools are used to solve problems. The mechanisms underlying the route to tool-use acquisition have important consequences for our understanding of the accumulation in technological skill complexity over the life course of an individual, across generations and over evolutionary time.
Structural assignment of a bis-cyclopentenyl-β-cyanohydrin formedviaalkene metathesis from either a triene or a tetraene precursor
Authors: Andrews Keith G. , Frampton Christopher S. , Spivey Alan C.
Published: October 2013

The identity of the major product of Ru-catalysed alkene metathesis of two polyene substrates has been determined using density functional theory (DFT) NMR prediction, a1H–1H Total Correlated Spectroscopy (TOCSY) NMR experiment and ultimately by single-crystal X-ray crystallography. The substrates were designed as those that would potentially allow expedient access to thetrans-decalin skeleton of the natural product (−)-euonyminol, but the product was found to be a bis-cyclopentenyl-β-cyanohydrin [1-(1-hydroxycyclopent-3-en-1-yl)cyclopent-3-ene-1-carbonitrile, C11H13NO] rather than thetrans-2,3,6,7-dehydrodecalin-β-cyanohydrin.
Two sodium(I) coordination polymers constructed by the V-shaped ligands 2,2′-[isopropylidenebis(1,4-phenyleneoxy)]diacetic acid and 2,2′-[sulfonylbis(1,4-phenyleneoxy)]diacetic acid
Authors: Huang Qiu-Ying , Liu Chun-Li , Zhou Zi-Peng
Published: October 2013

Two new inorganic–organic coordination polymers, namely poly[[μ6-2-(4-{1-[4-(carboxymethoxy)phenyl]-1-methylethyl}phenoxy)acetato][μ4-2-(4-{1-[4-(carboxymethoxy)phenyl]-1-methylethyl}phenoxy)acetato]disodium(I)], [Na2(C19H19O6)2]n, (I), and poly[hexa-μ-aqua-diaquabis{μ3-2,2′-[sulfonylbis(1,4-phenyleneoxy)]diacetato}tetrasodium(I)], [Na4(C16H14O8)2(H2O)8]n, (II), have been prepared. In (I), the asymmetric unit contains two NaIcations and two 2-(4-{1-[4-(carboxymethoxy)phenyl]-1-methylethyl}phenoxy)acetate (HL1−) ligands. Each NaIcation is octahedrally coordinated by two ether O atoms and four carboxylate O atoms of three different HL1−ligands. The NaO6polyhedra share edges to form an inorganic ribbon along theaaxis. These inorganic ribbons are further connected by the HL1−ligands to generate two-dimensional layers parallel to the (001) plane. The structure of (II) consists of ribbons of four crystallographically independent Na atoms (three six- and one five-coordinate), which are bridged by carboxylate O atoms of 4,4′-[sulfonylbis(1,4-phenyleneoxy)]diacetate (L22−) ligands and water molecules. These ribbons are interlinked byL22−ligands through two different coordination modes to afford a three-dimensional network.
Synthesis, crystal structure and fluorescence spectrum of a cadmium(II) sulfaquinoxaline complex
Authors: Zhao Xiu-Hua , Zhao Ya-Yun , Zhang Jie , Pan Jian-Guo , Li Xing
Published: October 2013

catena-Poly[[[4-amino-N-(quinoxalin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamidato]aquacadmium(II)]-μ-4-amino-N-(quinoxalin-2-yl)benzenesulfonamidato], [Cd(C14H11N4O2S)2(H2O)], has been synthesized hydrothermally and characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction, elemental analysis, fluorescence, IR and thermal analysis. Single-crystal X-ray analysis reveals that the complex is a one-dimensional zigzag chain structure, and the CdIIcation has a distorted octahedral coordination geometry formed by five N atoms from three different sulfaquinoxaline ligands and one O atom from a water molecule. The fluorescence spectrum reveals that the complex emits strong blue fluorescence and thermal analysis shows that the complex has high thermal stability.
1-Methyl-4-[(E)-2-(3-hydroxy-4-methoxyphenyl)ethenyl]pyridinium 4-bromobenzenesulfonate monohydrate
Authors: Chantrapromma Suchada , Ruanwas Pumsak , Jindawong Boonwasana , Fun Hoong-Kun
Published: October 2013

In the title hydrated salt, C15H16NO2+·C6H4BrO3S−·H2O, the cation exists in anEconformation with respect to the ethenyl bond and is almost planar, with a dihedral angle of 2.62 (12)° between the planes of the pyridinium and benzene rings. The methoxy substituent deviates slightly from the plane of its attached benzene ring [Cmethyl—O—C—C torsion angle = −11.6 (6)°]. In the crystal, the cations, anion and water molecules are linked together into chains along [010] by O—H...O hydrogen bonds and weak C—H...O interactions. There is a short Br...O contact [3.029 (2) Å]. The crystal structure also features C—H...π interactions involving the benzene ring of the anion.
Cohesion and satisfaction as mediators of the team trust – team effectiveness relationship
Authors: S. DeOrtentiis Philip , K. Summers James , P. Ammeter Anthony , Douglas Ceasar , R. Ferris Gerald
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– With extant research on the relationship between trust and effectiveness being inconclusive, the present study attempts to create a foundational investigation that examines the role of multiple mediators in the team trust – team effectiveness relationship. The authors identified the two emergent states of cohesion and satisfaction as intervening variables in the team trust – team effectiveness relationship, and tested this multi-mediation proposed model, within an interdependence theory perspective.

Design/methodology/approach

– MBA students at a large university in the southwestern USA were administered two waves of paper-based surveys, which were assigned to project groups. Individuals had been assigned to groups with the intent of maximizing diversity of age, gender, functional background, industry experience, and undergraduate major for each team (this is a goal of the MBA program, not the researchers). The first wave was administered one week after the groups had been formed and after all group members had met in their groups at least once. The second wave of surveys was administered at the end of the semester after the groups had been working together for three months and had completed their final projects.

Findings

– The results of the multiple mediation analysis found support for the hypotheses that cohesion and satisfaction serve as dual mediators of the trust – team effectiveness relationship.

Originality/value

– This study examined how trust operates through other variables to affect team performance. Two important variables that have been shown to be affected by trust are cohesion and satisfaction. Utilizing interdependence theory, the relationship of team trust and team performance was investigated through the intervening variables of cohesion and satisfaction, as both have been shown to possess properties that potentially represent different aspects of the interdependent relationship between team members. Therefore, this study examines how trust impacts team performance though the dual mediators of cohesion and satisfaction, in efforts to develop a more informed and theoretically grounded understanding of team performance and effectiveness processes.
Operationalizing “resilience” for disaster risk reduction in mountainous Nepal
Authors: I. Sudmeier Karen , Jaboyedoff Michel , Jaquet Stephanie
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to describe empirical research intended to fill the perceived gap in practical guidance methodologies for assessing resilience.

Design/methodology/approach

– To do so, an interdisciplinary team of researchers studied landslide risk in four different communities of Central and Eastern Nepal using a case study approach. Two case studies on flood-affected communities were developed for comparison sake in more urban areas. Methods combined qualitative participatory approaches to develop indicators of resilience as well as a household survey and focus group discussions for collecting data on the indicators.

Findings

– What the research results demonstrate is a relatively straightforward and simple means for obtaining data on the state of a community's resilience as a relatively simple “snapshot” of resilience at one period in time, assuming that resilience is an outcome that can be improved over time with the “right” set of interventions.

Research limitations/implications

– The main limitation of this research is that it focussed mainly on outcome indicators; although some process indicators of resilience were identified (i.e. grazing management practices, skills training, organizational skills and learning through education), these need to be more comprehensive and validated through community consultations.

Originality/value

– The paper provided data and a straightforward methodology for measuring resilience and has thus contributed to the literature on this topic, while providing practical ideas for future research on resilience building measures and indicators.
Accessible park environments and facilities for the visually impaired
Authors: Siu Kin Wai Michael
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This paper identifies and discusses that parks, as one kind of open space, must be open not only for some people, but for everyone, including those with special needs such as visually impaired people. The paper further identifies a number of key directions for the policy, design and management of park environments and facilities that will promote openness and social inclusion.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study was qualitative in nature. Case study approach on park environments and facilities was adopted. Used site studies, field observations, interviews with the government officials and professionals of planners, designers and management were conducted. Direct interviews with the visually impaired people were conducted during the field observation. Some of them were also invited to participate in participatory research workshops to give comments and suggestions on the design and management of park environments and facilities.

Findings

– Open spaces are important and necessary for all. However, visually impaired people are always indirectly excluded from open spaces such as parks, which are important for the quality of urban life. Three areas that require attention to improve the accessibility of parks: ways of identifying and approaching the parks; overall environmental setting of the parks; and facilities inside the parks. Assistance to visually impaired people can be further categorized into information provided in advance and information provided on-site.

Research limitations/implications

– Further case studies are expected to be conducted in other kinds of open space and other cities in order to generate a more comprehensive understanding related to the topic. Continuous studies are also necessary since the park environments and facilities are changing all the time. With the users ' participation, in particular those with special needs, in research is important.

Practical implications

– The findings provide reference and direction for the governments, designers and managment to plan, design and manage parks for the needs of visually impaired people. The findings also advocate inclusive and universal approach in planning, implementation and management of parks.

Social implications

– The findings identify that visually impaired people most of the time are indirectly excluded from accessing parks as well as other open spaces.

Originality/value

– Although the paper was based on a case study in Hong Kong, its practical and social implications are also important to other places. Although barrier-free concept and requirement have been enforced in many places for some years, people with special needs (in particular visually impaired people) still face a lot of “barriers” in their daily life. The findings provide insights for researchers and also policymakers, designers and management to review the needs of the visually impaired.
Water: how collective intelligence initiatives can address this challenge
Authors: Diggle Tony
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose is to examine how collective intelligence initiatives can help address the challenge of water supply globally.

Design/methodology/approach

– The methodology used was desk research and interview. The paper commences with a review of collective intelligence as a subject area. It then assesses water as an issue, paying particular attention to the new set of World Water Scenarios currently being undertaken by the World Water Assessment Program of UNESCO and its latest World Water Development Report (2012). It considers the application of collective intelligence systems to the challenge of water provision with particular reference to a recent initiative led by the International Water Association (IWA), the IWA WaterWiki. It examines potential future developments from a collective intelligence viewpoint.

Findings

– It is increasingly recognised that the drivers that affect water provision are linked to the change drivers of other global issues. There is a need to deal with the inadequacies of currently available water data. Online collective intelligence systems make it easier to set practical goals and monitor progress and send, receive and act on the latest research and new information. Complementary collective intelligence systems in other areas are needed.

Originality/value

– The paper deals with current developments in the water sector. It will be of interest to all foresight professionals involved with this sector or collective intelligence.
The role of accounting values in the relation between XBRL and forecast accuracy
Authors: Liu Chunhui , O'Farrell Grace
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This study aims to examine the role that cultural dimensions at the accounting subculture level play in the relation between XBRL mandate and quality of financial information environment.

Design/methodology/approach

– Analyst forecast accuracy with empirical data of firms from six nations is assessed.

Findings

– Results show that accounting values across nations play a significant role in influencing information quality change from XBRL mandate.

Originality/value

– This research paper is the very first in assessing the role of national culture in realizing information quality improvement value of XBRL.
Update from Australia: the copyright cloud hanging over our national collections
Authors: M. Broad Ellen
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– High-speed internet and digital technology offer new ways of accessing and interpreting collection material in our cultural institutions. The ability of cultural institutions to unlock access to their collections online is constrained by copyright law. This paper examines the push in Australia for cultural institutions to “set collections free” online, and copyright law reform developments that hinder or facilitate making comprehensive online experiences of collections a reality.

Design/methodology/approach

– It considers constraints in Australian copyright law following the adoption of increased IP enforcement and protection standards under the Australia-US Free Trade Agreement, in light of internationalisation of these standards through recent multi-lateral trade agreements. Finally, it considers copyright law reform options to better “unlock” or “set free” collections in cyberspace.

Findings

– It recommends the inclusion of safeguards for copyright exceptions and limitations in trade agreements, and reaffirmation of user and public institution rights of access to information. It warns against the adoption of onerous anti-circumvention provisions. It also recommends various domestic law reform options to free up access to cultural collections.

Originality/value

– Australia was one of the early adopters of the US-IP model that is fast becoming the international standard for enforcement and protection of IP rights. As such, looking at current Australian copyright law may help us better understand the effect IP-maximalist chapters being promoted in multilateral trade agreements may have on similar net-IP importing countries.
Influence of fundraising infeasibility on accounting changes
Authors: Sawanobori Chie
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– This paper aims to analyze early financial reporting practices and discuss the influence of fundraising infeasibility on accounting changes, focusing primarily on depreciation accounting practices.

Design/methodology/approach

– London and Birmingham Railway Company (L&BR) is a representative railway company whose practices laid the foundation for nineteenth century British railway accounting. All reports prepared by L&BR after each annual general meeting were analyzed using text mining. Keywords were extracted and the changes were observed, thus facilitating the prediction of accounting issues. Furthermore, the keyword contexts were confirmed using a search engine.

Findings

– This paper suggests that fundraising infeasibility might have influenced changes to the depreciation accounting practices at L&BR.

Research limitations/implications

– Being a historical study, it necessitates investigations into practices of other companies.

Practical implications

– The findings suggest that not only the negative operating results that previous studies claim but also the infeasibility of raising funds by issuing new shares might have influenced changes to the accounting concepts and accounting practices in the early-nineteenth century British railway companies.

Originality/value

– The accounting changes at L&BR could be important because they indicate that the management had reached the point at which it did not need to depend on fundraising via the issuance of new shares. This was an early sign of the development of self-financing.
Modeling the aesthetic axis of information organization frameworks, part 2
Authors: Ojennus Paul , Timothy Tennis Joseph
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to propose a theoretical framework, based on contemporary philosophical aesthetics, from which principled assessments of the aesthetic value of information organization frameworks may be conducted.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper identifies appropriate discourses within the field of philosophical aesthetics, constructs from them a framework for assessing aesthetic properties of information organization frameworks. This framework is then applied in two case studies examining the Library of Congress Subject Headings (LCSH), and Sexual Nomenclature: A Thesaurus.

Findings

– In both information organization frameworks studied, the aesthetic analysis was useful in identifying judgments of the frameworks as aesthetic judgments, in promoting discovery of further areas of aesthetic judgments, and in prompting reflection on the nature of these aesthetic judgments.

Research limitations/implications

– This study provides proof-of-concept for the aesthetic evaluation of information organization frameworks. Areas of future research are identified as the role of cultural relativism in such aesthetic evaluation and identification of appropriate aesthetic properties of information organization frameworks.

Practical implications

– By identifying a subset of judgments of information organization frameworks as aesthetic judgments, aesthetic evaluation of such frameworks can be made explicit and principled. Aesthetic judgments can be separated from questions of economic feasibility, functional requirements, and user-orientation. Design and maintenance of information organization frameworks can be based on these principles.

Originality/value

– This study introduces a new evaluative axis for information organization frameworks based on philosophical aesthetics. By improving the evaluation of such novel frameworks, design and maintenance can be guided by these principles.
The influence of national level factors on international kaizen transfer
Authors: Yokozawa Kodo , Steenhuis Harm-Jan
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this research study was to examine the international transfer of kaizen or continuous improvement. The central research question was formulated as: what national level factors influence the transfer of kaizen, and how?

Design/methodology/approach

– In the study, a survey interview was followed with semi-structured interviews. The study focused on Japanese subsidiaries in The Netherlands. A total of 15 companies participated in the research.

Findings

– Two main national level factors, not previously identified in the literature, were found: the level of eagerness of employees and the level of discipline of employees. It was also found that, based on these two factors, transferring kaizen to The Netherlands is very challenging.

Research limitations/implications

– The research was limited to kaizen transfer from Japan to The Netherlands.

Practical implications

– Companies benefit from this research because it contributes to understanding the relative ease of transferring kaizen. Having this understanding aids companies with planning the transfer of kaizen and its implementation.

Originality/value

– Several studies have examined the international transfer of kaizen and/or the international transfer of Japanese management systems. Some studies have identified national level factors as being important but understanding of how and why the factors play a role has been underdeveloped. Furthermore, companies are still struggling with the international transfer of kaizen. This study on kaizen transfer found two previously unidentified key factors, the reasons for their occurrence, and how they influence the transfer. This allows an improved understanding.
Detection of electrical faults in induction motors using vibration analysis
Authors: Cezar Monteiro Lamim Filho Paulo , Nei Brito Jorge , Augusto Diniz Silva Vinicius , Pederiva Robson
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The objective is the application of vibration analysis for the detection and diagnosis of low isolation between the stator coil wind and the voltage phase unbalance in induction motors with different numbers of poles. The purpose of this paper is to provide an approach for maintenance engineers for diagnosis electrical fault through the vibration analyses.

Design/methodology/approach

– A detailed review of previous work carried out by some researchers and maintenance engineers in the area of machine fault detection is performed. By vibration analysis, the spectra were collected, which used to analyze the failure. Vibration spectra could detect particular characteristic for each fault in an initial condition, so the machine health can be preserved.

Findings

– Results show the efficiency of the technique of vibration analysis and their relevance to detect and diagnose faults in different induction motors. In this way, it may be included in future predictive maintenance programs.

Practical implications

– The paper presents a laboratory investigation carried out through an experimental set-up for the study of fault, mainly related to the stator winding inter-turn short circuit and voltage phase unbalance.

Originality/value

– The main contribution of the paper has been the characterization of one more tool that makes the predictive maintenance process more efficient, effective and faster, increasing the reliability and availability of equipment.
Profitable working capital management in industrial maintenance companies
Authors: Marttonen Salla , Monto Sari , Kärri Timo
Published: October 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the impact of working capital management on profitability. This connection is further studied in industrial maintenance service companies.

Design/methodology/approach

– Analytical modeling has been used as the research method. The empirical analyses have been made on the basis of financial statements.

Findings

– The paper presents an analytical flexible asset management (FAM) model, which reveals a significant negative correlation between the cycle times of operational working capital and the return on investment. The importance of working capital management is emphasized in the industrial maintenance service sector, because of light fixed assets and good profitability.

Research limitations/implications

– There are some mathematical limitations in the applicability of the model introduced in this paper. These limitations should be addressed in further research.

Practical implications

– The FAM model can be utilized as a tool in decision making in firms, both in the short term and in the long term. On the basis of this paper, the decision makers can consider how important working capital management is in their industry. In the industrial maintenance service business, more attention should be paid to active management of working capital.

Originality/value

– The FAM model is a new decision-making tool. The paper also contributes to the unexplored perspective of industrial maintenance companies. The paper is valuable to service companies, as the research of working capital management has mostly focussed on manufacturing industries.