bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing Fishing Quotas to Meet Target Fishing Fractions of an Internationally Exploited Stock of Pacific Sardine
Authors: Demer David A. , Zwolinski Juan P.
Published: November 2014

Two stocks of Pacific Sardine Sardinops sagax migrate seasonally and synchronously along the west coasts of Mexico, the USA, and Canada. Landings from the two stocks are currently combined in U.S. assessments of the northern stock, but the stocks may be differentiated by their associated seawater habitats, which are predominantly characterized by different ranges of sea surface temperature. We compared the combined and temperature-differentiated landings of the two stocks in each country for the period 1993–2011, demonstrating how different attributions of the landings affected the estimated annual fishing fraction (F) for the northern stock. Using combined or stock-differentiated landings and assessed biomasses, we found that the current harvest control rule (HCR) for Pacific Sardine has not consistently maintained a total F below the U.S. target value because the “distribution” parameter (used to account for the northern stock's proportion in the U.S. Exclusive Economic Zone [EEZ]), has not adequately accounted for northern stock landings in Mexico and Canada. We propose a refinement to the HCR, giving explicit consideration to the summed landings in Mexico and Canada, to more optimally set the annual U.S. quota. The performance of our method was compared with (1) the values of F that would have been achieved during the federal management period (2000–2011) if the U.S. quotas had always been met and (2) the generally lower actual values of F that were calculated using the default HCR formulation (1993–2011). We demonstrate that application of our method would permit more U.S. fishing for Pacific Sardine when the northern stock is large and predominantly located in the U.S. EEZ and would curtail U.S. fishing when a large proportion of the stock is present and fished in the Mexican EEZ, Canadian EEZ, or both.

Received December 12, 2013; accepted July 16, 2014
Adiposity induces lethal cytokine storm after systemic administration of stimulatory immunotherapy regimens in aged mice
Authors: Mirsoian Annie , Bouchlaka Myriam N. , Sckisel Gail D. , Chen Mingyi , Pai Chien-Chun Steven , Maverakis Emanuel , Spencer Richard G. , Fishbein Kenneth W. , Siddiqui Sana , Monjazeb Arta M. , Martin Bronwen , Maudsley Stuart , Hesdorffer Charles , Ferrucci Luigi , Longo Dan L. , Blazar Bruce R. , Wiltrout Robert H. , Taub Dennis D. , Murphy William J.
Published: November 2014

Aging is a contributing factor in cancer occurrence. We recently demonstrated that systemic immunotherapy (IT) administration in aged, but not young, mice resulted in induction of rapid and lethal cytokine storm. We found that aging was accompanied by increases in visceral fat similar to that seen in young obese (ob/ob or diet-induced obese [DIO]) mice. Yet, the effects of aging and obesity on inflammatory responses to immunotherapeutics are not well defined. We determine the effects of adiposity on systemic IT tolerance in aged compared with young obese mice. Both young ob/ob- and DIO-generated proinflammatory cytokine levels and organ pathologies are comparable to those in aged ad libitum mice after IT, culminating in lethality. Young obese mice exhibited greater ratios of M1/M2 macrophages within the peritoneal and visceral adipose tissues and higher percentages of TNF+ macrophages in response to αCD40/IL-2 as compared with young lean mice. Macrophage depletion or TNF blockade in conjunction with αCD40/IL-2 prevented cytokine storms in young obese mice and protected from lethality. Calorie-restricted aged mice contain less visceral fat and displayed reduced cytokine levels, protection from organ pathology, and protection from lethality upon αCD40/IL-2 administration. Our data demonstrate that adiposity is a critical factor in the age-associated pathological responses to systemic anti-cancer IT.
Hrd1-mediated BLIMP-1 ubiquitination promotes dendritic cell MHCII expression for CD4 T cell priming during inflammation
Authors: Yang Heeyoung , Qiu Quan , Gao Beixue , Kong Sinyi , Lin Zhenghong , Fang Deyu
Published: November 2014

The ubiquitin pathway plays critical roles in antigen presentation. However, the ubiquitin ligases that regulate MHC gene transcription remain unidentified. We showed that the ubiquitin ligase Hrd1, expression of which is induced by Toll-like receptor (TLR) stimulation, is required for MHC-II but not MHC-I transcription in dendritic cells (DCs). Targeted Hrd1 gene deletion in DCs diminished MHC-II expression. As a consequence, Hrd1-null DCs failed to prime CD4+ T cells without affecting the activation of CD8+ T cells. Hrd1 catalyzed ubiquitination and degradation of the transcriptional suppressor B lymphocyte–induced maturation protein 1 (BLIMP1) to promote MHC-II expression. Genetic suppression of Hrd1 function in DCs protected mice from myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG)–induced experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). We identified Hrd1-mediated BLIMP1 ubiquitination as a previously unknown mechanism in programming DC for CD4+ T cell activation during inflammation.
Antigen-specific expansion and differentiation of natural killer cells by alloantigen stimulation
Authors: Nabekura Tsukasa , Lanier Lewis L.
Published: November 2014

Natural killer (NK) cells provide important host defense against microbial pathogens and can generate a population of long-lived memory NK cells after infection or immunization. Here, we addressed whether NK cells can expand and differentiate after alloantigen stimulation, which may be important in hematopoietic stem cell and solid tissue transplantation. A subset of NK cell in C57BL/6 mice expresses the activating Ly49D receptor that is specific for H-2Dd. These Ly49D+ NK cells can preferentially expand and differentiate when challenged with allogeneic H-2Dd cells in the context of an inflammatory environment. H-2Dd is also recognized by the inhibitory Ly49A receptor, which, when coexpressed on Ly49D+ NK cells, suppresses the expansion of Ly49D+ NK cells. Specificity of the secondary response of alloantigen-primed NK cells was defined by the expression of activating Ly49 receptors and regulated by the inhibitory receptors for MHC class I. Thus, the summation of signals through a repertoire of Ly49 receptors controls the adaptive immune features of NK cells responding to allogeneic cells.
Cone avoiding closed sets
Authors: Liu Lu
Published: November 2014

We prove that for an arbitrary subtree

T
T

of

2

>
ω

2^{>\omega }

with each element extendable to a path, a given countable class

M

\mathcal {M}

closed under disjoint union, and any set

A
A

, if none of the members of

M

\mathcal {M}

strongly

k
k

-enumerate

T
T

for any

k
k

, then there exists an infinite set contained in either

A
A

or

A
¯

\bar {A}

such that for every

C
∈

M

C\in \mathcal {M}

,

C
⊕
G

C\oplus G

also does not strongly

k
k

-enumerate

T
T

. We give applications of this result, which include: (1)

R

T
2
2

\mathsf {RT_2^2}

doesn’t imply

W
W
K

L
0

\mathsf {WWKL_0}

; (2) [Ambos-Spies et al., 2004]

D
N
R

\mathsf {DNR}

is strictly weaker than

W
W
K

L
0

\mathsf {WWKL_0}

; (3) [Kjos-Hanssen, 2009] for any Martin-Löf random set

A
A

, either

A
A

or

A
¯

\bar {A}

contains an infinite subset that does not compute any Martin-Löf random set; etc. We also discuss further generalizations of this result.
Classification of sofic projective subdynamics of multidimensional shifts of finite type
Authors: Pavlov Ronnie , Schraudner Michael
Published: November 2014

Motivated by Hochman’s notion of subdynamics of a

Z

d

\mathbb {Z}^d

subshift (2009), we define and examine the projective subdynamics of

Z

d

\mathbb {Z}^d

shifts of finite type (SFTs) where we restrict not only the action but also the phase space. We show that any

Z

\mathbb {Z}

sofic shift of positive entropy is the projective subdynamics of a

Z

2

\mathbb {Z}^2

(

Z

d

\mathbb {Z}^d

) SFT, and that there is a simple condition characterizing the class of zero-entropy

Z

\mathbb {Z}

sofic shifts which are not the projective subdynamics of any

Z

2

\mathbb {Z}^2

SFT. We define notions of stable and unstable subdynamics in analogy with the notions of stable and unstable limit sets in cellular automata theory, and discuss how our results fit into this framework. One-dimensional strictly sofic shifts of positive entropy admit both a stable and an unstable realization, whereas

Z

\mathbb {Z}

SFTs only allow for stable realizations and a particular class of zero-entropy proper

Z

\mathbb {Z}

sofics only allows for an unstable realization. Finally, we prove that the union of finitely many

Z

k

\mathbb {Z}^k

subshifts, all of which are realizable in

Z

d

\mathbb {Z}^d

SFTs, is again realizable when it contains at least two periodic points, that the projective subdynamics of

Z

2

\mathbb {Z}^2

SFTs with the uniform filling property (UFP) are always stable, thus sofic, and we exhibit a class of non-sofic

Z

\mathbb {Z}

subshifts which are not the projective subdynamics of any

Z

d

\mathbb {Z}^d

SFT.
Biomarkers and their Raman spectroscopic signatures: a spectral challenge for analytical astrobiology
Authors: Edwards Howell G. M. , Hutchinson Ian B. , Ingley Richard , Jehlička Jan
Published: November 2014

The remote robotic exploration of extraterrestrial scenarios for evidence of biological colonization in ‘search for life’ missions using Raman spectroscopy is critically dependent on two major factors: firstly, the Raman spectral recognition of characteristic biochemical spectral signatures in the presence of mineral matrix features; and secondly, the positive unambiguous identification of molecular biomaterials which are indicative of extinct or extant life. Both of these factors are considered here: the most important criterion is the clear definition of which biochemicals truly represent biomarkers, whose presence in the planetary geological record from an analytical astrobiological standpoint will unambiguously be indicative of life as recognized from its remote instrumental interrogation. Also discussed in this paper are chemical compounds which are associated with living systems, including biominerals, which may not in themselves be definitive signatures of life processes and origins but whose presence provides an indicator of potential life-bearing matrices.
Raman spectroscopy as a screening tool for ancient life detection on Mars
Authors: Marshall Craig P , Marshall Alison Olcott
Published: November 2014

The search for
sp
2
-bonded carbonaceous material is one of the major life detection strategies of the astrobiological exploration programmes of National Aeronautics and Space Administration and European Space Agency (ESA). The ESA ExoMars rover scheduled for launch in 2018 will include a Raman spectrometer with the goal of detecting
sp
2
-bonded carbonaceous material as potential evidence of ancient life. However,
sp
2
-bonded carbonaceous material will yield the same Raman spectra of well-developed G and D bands whether they are synthesized biologically or non-biologically. Therefore, the origin and source of
sp
2
-bonded carbonaceous material cannot be elucidated by Raman spectroscopy alone. Here, we report the combined approach of Raman spectroscopy and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry biomarker analysis to Precambrian sedimentary rocks, which taken together, provides a promising new methodology for readily detecting and rapidly screening samples for immature organic material amenable to successful biomarker analysis.
Raman spectroscopy on Mars: identification of geological and bio-geological signatures in Martian analogues using miniaturized Raman spectrometers
Authors: Hutchinson Ian B. , Ingley Richard , Edwards Howell G. M. , Harris Liam , McHugh Melissa , Malherbe Cedric , Parnell J.
Published: November 2014

The first Raman spectrometers to be used for
in situ
analysis of planetary material will be launched as part of powerful, rover-based analytical laboratories within the next 6 years. There are a number of significant challenges associated with building spectrometers for space applications, including limited volume, power and mass budgets, the need to operate in harsh environments and the need to operate independently and intelligently for long periods of time (due to communication limitations). Here, we give an overview of the technical capabilities of the Raman instruments planned for future planetary missions and give a review of the preparatory work being pursued to ensure that such instruments are operated successfully and optimally. This includes analysis of extremophile samples containing pigments associated with biological processes, synthetic materials which incorporate biological material within a mineral matrix, planetary analogues containing low levels of reduced carbon and samples coated with desert varnish that incorporate both geo-markers and biomarkers. We discuss the scientific importance of each sample type and the challenges using portable/flight-prototype instrumentation. We also report on technical development work undertaken to enable the next generation of Raman instruments to reach higher levels of sensitivity and operational efficiency.
Will-o'-the-Wisp
: an ancient mystery with extremophile origins?
Authors: Edwards Howell G. M.
Published: November 2014

This paper draws a comparison between the 700-year-old historically reported
will-o'-the-wisp
phenomenon and the more recent discovery of extremophilic colonization of hostile environments; both have been observed as present in isolated, stressed environmental regions and originating from biological phenomena. However, whereas extremophilic activity can be understood in terms of a survival strategy based upon the synthesis of specific suites of protective biochemicals which are designed to control biogeologically the stressed habitats and to provide protection against the extreme environments, the analytical techniques that have proved so successful for the illumination of these survival strategies of extremophiles and which are now being miniaturized for in-field studies and for extraterrestrial exploration have not been applied to a clarification or evaluation of the phenomenon of
will-o'-the-wisp
. The reason is simply that the
will-o'-the-wisp
sightings have now disappeared completely. Tantalizingly, all of the most reasonable physico-chemical and biological explanations for the
will-o'-the-wisp
phenomenon proved to be unsatisfactory in some respect and it is clear that, just as in the case of extremophilic colonization,
will-o'-the-wisp
would benefit from a modern rigorous analytical study which would produce the data from which the potentially novel biological behaviour could be characterized and which would help a better understanding to be made of our natural world.
Violation of the 12/23 rule of genomic V(D)J recombination is common in lymphocytes
Authors: Parkinson Nicholas J. , Roddis Matthew , Ferneyhough Ben , Zhang Gang , Marsden Adam J. , Maslau Siarhei , Sanchez-Pearson Yasmin , Barthlott Thomas , Humphreys Ian R. , Ladell Kristin , Price David A. , Ponting Chris P. , Hollander Georg , Fischer Michael D.
Published: November 2014

V(D)J genomic recombination joins single gene segments to encode an extensive repertoire of antigen receptor specificities in T and B lymphocytes. This process initiates with double-stranded breaks adjacent to conserved recombination signal sequences that contain either 12- or 23-nucleotide spacer regions. Only recombination between signal sequences with unequal spacers results in productive coding genes, a phenomenon known as the “12/23 rule.” Here we present two novel genomic tools that allow the capture and analysis of immune locus rearrangements from whole thymic and splenic tissues using second-generation sequencing. Further, we provide strong evidence that the 12/23 rule of genomic recombination is frequently violated under physiological conditions, resulting in unanticipated hybrid recombinations in ∼10% ofTcraexcision circles. Hence, we demonstrate that strict adherence to the 12/23 rule is intrinsic neither to recombination signal sequences nor to the catalytic process of recombination and propose that nonclassical excision circles are liberated during the formation of antigen receptor diversity.
Microtubules Contribute to Tubule Elongation and Anchoring of Endoplasmic Reticulum, Resulting in High Network Complexity in Arabidopsis
Authors: Hamada Takahiro , Ueda Haruko , Kawase Takashi , Hara-Nishimura Ikuko
Published: November 2014

The endoplasmic reticulum (ER) is a network of tubules and sheet-like structures in eukaryotic cells. Some ER tubules dynamically change their morphology, and others form stable structures. In plants, it has been thought that the ER tubule extension is driven by the actin-myosin machinery. Here, we show that microtubules also contribute to the ER tubule extension with an almost 20-fold slower rate than the actin filament-based ER extension. Treatment with the actin-depolymerizing drug Latrunculin B made it possible to visualize the slow extension of the ER tubules in transgenic Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) plants expressing ER-targeted green fluorescent protein. The ER tubules elongated along microtubules in both directions of microtubules, which have a distinct polarity. This feature is similar to the kinesin- or dynein-driven ER tubule extension in animal cells. In contrast to the animal case, ER tubules elongating with the growing microtubule ends were not observed in Arabidopsis. We also found the spots where microtubules are stably colocalized with the ER subdomains during long observations of 1,040 s, suggesting that cortical microtubules contribute to provide ER anchoring points. The anchoring points acted as the branching points of the ER tubules, resulting in the formation of multiway junctions. The density of the ER tubule junction positively correlated with the microtubule density in both elongating cells and mature cells of leaf epidermis, showing the requirement of microtubules for formation of the complex ER network. Taken together, our findings show that plants use microtubules for ER anchoring and ER tubule extension, which establish fine network structures of the ER within the cell.
Crystal structure of (R)-N-benzyl-1-phenylethanaminium (R)-4-chloromandelate
Authors: Peng Yangfeng , Rohani Sohrab , Boyle Paul D. , He Quan
Published: November 2014

The absolute configuration of the title molecular salt, C15H18N+·C8H6ClO3−, has been confirmed by resonant scattering. In the (R)-N-benzyl-1-phenyl-ethylammonium cation, the phenyl rings are inclined to one another by 44.65 (7)°. In the crystal, the (R)-4-chloromandelate anions are linkedviaO—H...O hydrogen bonds and bridged by N—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the cations, forming chains along [010]. There are C—H...O hydrogen bonds present within the chains, which are linkedviaC—H...π interactions and a short Cl...Cl interaction [3.193 (1) Å] forming a three-dimensional framework. The structure was refined as a two-component inversion twin giving a Flack parameter of 0.05 (4).
Conversion intentions of interns: what are the motivating factors?
Authors: Hurst Jessica L. , Good Linda K. , Gardner Phil
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate interns’ supervisory support expectations, psychological contract obligations, job satisfaction, perception of advancement opportunities and affective organisational commitment in an attempt to gain a better understanding of how these variables influence interns’ conversion intentions.

Design/methodology/approach

This study focuses on college juniors and seniors who were enrolled in retail/service programs at one of three major US universities, and successfully completed a retail/service internship. An online survey was used to assess the influence of interns’ psychological contract expectations regarding employer obligations, supervisory support expectations, job satisfaction, perception of advancement opportunities, and affective organisational commitment on interns’ conversion intentions (intent to accept an offer for full‐time employment).

Findings

Findings indicate that employers can establish a foundation for intern retention by fulfilling obligations, both implicitly and explicitly. Furthermore, to ensure continued success of their interns, retailers should rely on supervisors and/or mentors to provide guidance, support and feedback.

Research limitations/implications

Research is limited to students who completed a retail/service internship during 2008.

Practical implications

Results provide practical implications to aid in internship program development, assist in interns’ educational and professional development, and enhance the likelihood of successful conversion of interns to employees for retail/service businesses.

Originality/value

This paper is based on actual feedback from interns. Findings will assist retailers in identifying how they can differentiate their internship programs from their competitors’, and how they can increase internship conversion rates. Additionally, the paper identifies salient factors that motivate interns to accept an offer for full‐time employment from their internship company.
Work placements and academic achievement: undergraduate computing students
Authors: Patel Nayna , Brinkman Willem‐Paul , Coughlan Jane
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate and understand whether students who complete a work placement as part of their degree course achieve a better classification of degree than those students who do not include a placement.

Design/methodology/approach

The study was conducted by extracting the profiles of computing students from the database of a UK based university. Data collected included the marks and academic performance throughout the course of the students’ degree, educational background, age and gender. In total, the profiles of 290 students were analysed to understand the impact of a work placement on their degree.

Findings

The results show that 58 per cent of those students who had been on a work placement achieved an upper second or first class degree, whereas only 37 per cent of non‐placement students achieved the same academic standards. Furthermore, this study also established that this result is not because work placement students are academically more capable to begin with, as originally believed by many researchers.

Practical implications

Direction for further research would involve investigating different cohorts of students and in different subject areas. However, the initial findings from this study could be used as a starting point in an attempt to encourage students to include a work placement as part of their degree.

Originality/value

Rather than simply performing a comparison of degree classifications between the placement and non‐placement students, this study goes further and investigates student performance during their entire three or four year degree course. Furthermore, this study also considers influences such as age, gender and educational background on the results.
University of Central Florida's Campus Connections Program
Authors: Mendelsohn Hal
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The Campus Connections Program can help provide other universities with a better method to reach out to students so they can learn what resources are available to them on their university campus. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

An investigation was performed to find out what services were on the University of Central Florida's campus. Determining that many of the necessary resources were not being promoted to the students, the Campus Connections Program was developed. A review of relevant literature highlighted the point that partnerships/working relationships are important to perform successful outreach to those you wish to contact.

Findings

Through a survey instrument it was concluded that a better way of reaching out to students was necessary. There are other outlets used to promote an organization's services, the difference shows that the Campus Connections Program provided a better forum for the exchange of information.

Research limitations/implications

A survey of nine questions was administered to representatives who participated in the Campus Connections Program. The survey sought to determine if the established method of reaching out to students was useful.

Originality/value

Student orientations are the normal route groups take to meet students and discuss their services. Providing the time and location within the library for those same groups to meet the students individually is what makes the Campus Connections Program unique.
“Modernising” away gender pay inequality? Some evidence from the local government sector on using job evaluation
Authors: Wright Angela
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to focus on the use of job evaluation used as a mechanism to increase gender pay equality, drawing on data from the UK local government sector.

Design/methodology/approach

Several research methods are used to collect data, including requesting information from local councils using the Freedom of Information Act, 2000, together with document analyses and interview data.

Findings

While the paper questions the effectiveness of job evaluation in achieving pay equality objectives, within a pay and labour market that tends to favour male‐dominated jobs, it nevertheless finds some pay improvements for women resulting from job‐evaluated pay system changes and suggests the use of pay progression systems could lead to further pay advancements for women.

Research limitations/implications

This research has a number of limitations and further inquiries are needed to assess the impact of the slow progress of pay and grading reviews within local government. Methodologically isolating the effect of job evaluation from that of the other pay determination factors presents a significant challenge.

Originality/value

Focuses on the implementation in the local government sector of the 1997 single status agreement (SSA), which has been very slow. While overall funding and resources to implement the agreement have been low, there are, it is argued in this paper, other issues, centering on assumptions about job evaluation and its use to reduce gender pay inequality, which contribute to implementation difficulties.
Best management practices
Authors: Ng Luke C.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Management means “getting things done effectively through people”. This implies the importance of leadership and people skills in management practice to achieve optimal results. Great managers usually succeed for a number of reasons. They usually possess nine common management practices. This paper aims to identify these common denominators in their character and management practice that define them.

Design/methodology/approach

Case examples are used to illustrate the application of those management practices. Successful managers from well‐known industry giants such as IBM, Nestle's, P&G, Apple, Loews', GE and PepsiCo are profiled to demonstrate how their success can be traced back to those practices.

Findings

The paper demonstrates that every manager can easily apply the nine management practices daily to achieve a successful outcome. While some of these traits appear to be personal habits, it is these simple management habits that influence subordinates to perform their best.

Originality/value

Most good managers are trained, not born. The nine personal practices identified in this paper can be easily adopted on a daily basis. With consistent practice, the nine personal traits help train managers to become more effective leaders in driving optimal performance and motivating subordinates to “get things done effectively”.
The business‐government‐society relationship: a comparison between China and the US
Authors: Wu Jiyun , Kirk Davidson D.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to unveil the business‐government‐society relationship in China, as compared with that in the USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Three cases – the Chinese milk scandal, the beef recall, and the peanut butter scandal in the USA – are presented and contrasted.

Findings

The business‐society‐government relationship in China sets itself apart from that in the USA, largely due to its one‐party political system and the Confucian tradition. The relative lack of independent watchdogs and advocacy groups and the relative lack of independence of the media make it more difficult for irresponsible behavior by powerful corporations to be exposed in China. Further, paternal local governments can sometimes play an enabling role to companies engaged in irresponsible behavior under their protective wings.

Research limitations/implications

With little extant research in the area of corporate social responsibility in the Chinese context, future research can build on this research and further test the relationship with quantitative data.

Practical implications

The research provides insights into the context of business operations in China and thus has significant practical relevance.

Originality/value

The paper is the first to explore the business‐government‐society relationship in China.
Relationships among market orientation, JIT, TQM, and agility
Authors: Zelbst Pamela J. , Green Kenneth W. , Abshire Roger D. , Sower Victor E.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the adoption of a market orientation (MO) coupled with implementation of just‐in‐time (JIT), total quality management (TQM), and agile improvement programs within manufacturing organizations from a macro perspective using systems theory as the theoretical underpinning. From a systems perspective, this research focuses on MO and its direct relationships with JIT, TQM, and agile manufacturing (AM) and subsequent impact on operational and logistics performance (LP).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 104 manufacturing managers, supervisors, and quality professionals and analyzed using a path analysis methodology.

Findings

MO directly and positively impacts JIT, TQM, and AM. JIT positively and directly impacts TQM which in turn positively and directly impacts AM. AM positively and directly impacts both organizational and LP.

Research limitations/implications

Although the sample size is large enough to support path analysis, it is not of sufficient size to support structural equation modeling. This limitation precludes assessing the model as a whole. Direct and indirect effects are assessed, however.

Practical implications

Practitioners are provided with a framework for assessing the synergistic impact of combining a MO with operations improvement programs on organizational and LP.

Originality/value

A systems approach to assessing the impact of a combination of marketing and operations strategies is developed and tested.
Internal migration in Ghana: determinants and welfare impacts
Authors: Ackah Charles , Medvedev Denis
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Using a recently compiled dataset on migration and remittances in Ghana, the purpose of this paper is to estimate the determinants of an individual's likelihood to be an internal migrant and the relationship between internal migration and welfare.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses treatment regression techniques to assess the characteristics of Ghanaian migrants, the determinants of migration, and its impact on household welfare.

Findings

The paper finds that the likelihood to migrate is determined by a combination of individual (pull) and community‐level (push) characteristics. The probability of migration is higher for younger and more educated individuals, but communities with higher levels of literacy, higher rates of subsidized medical care, and better access to water and sanitation are less likely to produce migrants. It is found that households with migrants tend to be better off than similar households without migrants, even after controlling for the fact that households with migrants are a non‐random sample of Ghanaians. However, the positive relationship is only true for households with at least one migrant in urban areas.

Research limitations/implications

Clearly, if the authors had access to panel data, they would have been able to do something very nice and clean (on both theoretical and econometric grounds).

Originality/value

This paper adds to the Ghana migration literature by offering a novel empirical assessment of the characteristics of Ghanaian migrants, the determinants of migration, and its impact on household welfare by drawing on a recently‐assembled, nationally‐representative sample of Ghanaian households.
On uncertain systems and uncertain models
Authors: Liu Sifeng , Sheng Keqin , Forrest Jeffrey
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show which models, uncertain or certain, simple or complicated, are more suitable when they are faced with incomplete information and inaccurate data.

Design/methodology/approach

The characteristics of fuzzy mathematics, grey system theory, rough set theory and the basic characteristics of incomplete information and inaccurate data in uncertain systems are analysed.

Findings

The similarities and differences among fuzzy mathematics, grey system theory, rough set theory and probability statistics are compared. The principle of simplicity of scientific theories, methods, and models are discussed.

Practical implications

It is suggested that the tendency to concentrate on a complicated model isn't always necessary when faced with the condition of incomplete information and inaccurate data.

Originality/value

The paper shows that a more satisfied result can be obtained with an uncertain model than with a meticulous model on a certain situation.
An extension of grey target method with multistage fuzzy linguistic evaluation under incomplete weight
Authors: Wang Hehua , Fang Zhigeng , Zhu Jianjun
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the extensive method of grey target based on multi‐stage linguistic label, which is a hypothesis of incomplete information of the weight of stage and decision maker.

Design/methodology/approach

For the incomplete weight information case, the weight model for the stage and decision maker is put forward based on the requirement of maximum difference among the alternatives. Also, the weight of the decision maker is estimated by the grey relationship method and the Euclid distance method.

Findings

As a result, the method of multiple stage grey target decision making based on linguistic label is suggested. In the incomplete information case, the weight model is suggested and the aggregation is put forward. The suggested method is clear and simple, which can be used in multi‐criteria decision making fields.

Practical implications

This paper offers a very useful result for multi‐attribute decision making.

Originality/value

This paper succeeds in studying the extensive method of grey target based on multi‐stage linguistic label, which is a hypothesis of incomplete information of the weight of stage and the decision maker.
Research on ACPI system frame for R&D management of complex equipments
Authors: Liu Sifeng , Fang Zhigeng , Yuan Chaoqing , Li Yaping , Cao Ying
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new system frame named ACPI for research and development (R&D) management of complex equipments according to the ideas of artificial societies, computational experiments, parallel execution and interactive optimization.

Design/methodology/approach

An artificial system which can effectively model, simulate and recur the main features and behaviors of a real R&D system of complex equipment is established at first. The structure and function of the system and its subsystems, and the relation of factors in the system are analyzed. Then one can perform computation experiment, modeling and simulation in the artificial system to obtain the optimal solutions. Finally, practice these solutions in a real system and at the same time perform the solutions in artificial system, forecasting and warning the possible new situations and problems in a realistic process, and provide controlling scheme.

Findings

The typical characteristics and solutions of the R&D system of complex equipment are analyzed. The sketch scheme of ACPI, the system frame of ACPI for R&D management of complex equipments are proposed, and the key technologies used in implementing ACPI of R&D system of complex equipment are studied.

Practical implications

The outcome of this paper can be used in computation experiments, management and optimization of R&D systems of complex equipment.

Originality/value

The sketch scheme of ACPI, the system frame of ACPI for R&D management of complex equipments are proposed first. The ACPI system can supply a high‐performance, open and interactive platform for the analog simulation and computation experiments of the R&D process management of complex equipment.
An introduction to alysidal algebra (II)
Authors: Nescolarde‐Selva J. , Vives‐Maciá F. , Usó‐Doménech J.L. , Berend D.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Deontical impure systems are systems whose object set is formed by an s‐impure set, whose elements areperceptuales significances(relative beings) of material and/or energetic objects (absolute beings) and whose relational set is freeways of relations, formed by sheaves of relations going in two‐way directions. Objects and freeways form chains.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach used was mathematical and logical development of human society structure.

Findings

Existence of relations with positive imperative modality (obligation) would constitute the skeleton of the system. Negative imperative modality (prohibition) would be the immunological system of protection of the system. Modality permission the muscular system, that gives the necessary flexibility to the system, in as much to the modality faculty its neurocerebral system, because it allows one to make decisions. Transactions of energy, money, merchandise, population, etc. would be the equivalent one to the sanguineous system. These economic transactions and inferential relations, depend, as well, on the existence of a legislative body with their obligations, prohibitions and permissions that regulate them.

Originality/value

This paper is a continuation of Part I, published inKybernetes, Volume 41, Issue 1/2, 2012, continuing the development of Alysidal Algebra, which is important for the study of deontical impure systems. They are defined coupling functions and alysidal structures. It is defined as a special coupling function denominated gnorpsic function that can be used for algebraic operations between alysidal sets.
System design effects on online impulse buying
Authors: Ning Shen Kathy , Khalifa Mohamed
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Integrating the two‐system (reflective vs. impulsive) model and the “stimulus‐organism‐response” framework, the purpose of this paper is to construct and empirically test a model that examines online impulse buying as a phenomenon triggered by system design factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A laboratory experimental design with a 2×2 full factorial design involving 151 undergraduate students was used to validate the effects of system design stimuli on online impulse buying. Interactivity and vividness, two design factors, were manipulated and a fictitious VCD movie store was created, with four storefronts representing each combination of treatments.

Findings

A compelling and sociable virtual experience as conceptualized with telepresence and social presence has a significant effect on buying impulses over and above traditional marketing/product stimuli. Such virtual experience can be created through the usage of interactive and vivid website features. Furthermore, cognition positively moderates the relationship between buying impulse and the actual purchasing behavior.

Practical implications

The findings provide valuable guidance in website design that can stimulate online impulse buying. The results also indicate the importance of providing cognitive intervention at the purchasing stage.

Originality/value

A significant extension of the “stimulus‐organism‐response” framework is to introduce presence as the system stimulus that captures the overall virtual experience and to specify the associated design features; i.e. interactivity and vividness. By incorporating the two‐system model, this study offers a theoretical underpinning of the role of cognitive processing in impulse buying.
Beyond market‐fundamentalist economics: an agenda for heterodox economics to change the dominant narrative
Authors: Jo Tae‐Hee , Chester Lynne , King Mary C.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to introduce heterodox economics as a viable alternative to market‐fundamentalist economics and to outline the articles of the special issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This introductory article provides an overview and summary of the contributions in the special issue.

Findings

Market‐fundamentalist economics has failed to adequately explain the economy or to provide guidance to policymakers that lead to widely‐shared prosperity and human well‐being. By contrast, heterodox economics offers social and historical narratives of both market and non‐market activities.

Originality/value

The article helps general readers to get acquainted with visions and approaches that are alternative to market‐fundamentalist economics. This will allow them to imagine more concretely that a better world is possible.
Health improvement: countervailing pillars of partnership and profession
Authors: Pate Judy , Fischbacher Moira , Mackinnon Jane
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The Scottish Parliament has recently formed Community Health Partnerships (CHPs), in which health and social care providers come together within a unified organisational framework. This paper aims to assess the extent to which employees identify with their profession and whether professional identity poses a significant barrier to multi‐disciplinary, inter‐organisational partnership.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted a mixed methodology approach. A survey of all CHP staff was conducted, four months after the CHP was created and obtained a 31 per cent response rate. Additionally, to obtain an in‐depth understanding of the partnership, 26 interviews were conducted with senior and middle level managers and professional representatives.

Findings

A strong professional identity in the health and social care context was evident while the partnership vision, in contrast, lacked clarity. Therefore under these circumstances individuals' sense of occupation has been heightened due to perceived attempts to erode their professional identity, and modifications to their sense of “self” have not been challenged by a strong partnership ethos.

Practical implications

Managers face a deep‐rooted cultural based challenge where individuals strongly identify with their profession rather than the ethos of the partnership, which impedes full integration. Managers have a “balancing act” of addressing structural and processual change within the integration agenda, without losing sight of the outcomes in terms of service delivery and improving health and wellbeing.

Originality/value

This paper examines the implications of a new major health policy change that aims to integrate health and social care. In addition, the study unravels the complex issue of professional identity in this context.
Medical assistants: the invisible “glue” of primary health care practices in the United States?
Authors: Taché Stephanie , Hill‐Sakurai Laura
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Little attention has been given to the field of medical assisting in US health services to date. To explore the roles medical assistants (MAs) currently play in primary care settings, the paper aims to focus on the work scope and dynamics of these increasingly common healthcare personnel.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a multiple step, mixed methods study, combining a quantitative survey and qualitative semi‐structured interviews: eight experts in the field of medical assisting; 12 MAs from diverse primary care practice settings in Northern California.

Findings

Survey results revealed great variation in the breadth of tasks that MAs performed. Five overarching themes describe the experience of medical assistants in primary care settings: ensuring patient flow and acting as a patient liaison, “making a difference”; diversity within the occupation and work relationships.

Research implications/limitations

As the number of medical assistants working in primary care practices in the United States increases, more attention must be paid to how best to deploy this allied health workforce. This study suggests that MAs have an expertise in maintaining efficient clinic flow and promoting patient satisfaction. Future recommendations for changes in MA roles must address the diversity within this occupation in terms of workscope and quality assurance as well as MA relationships with other members of ambulatory care teams.

Originality/value

This is the first study to explore perspectives of medical assistants in the USA. As this is a largely unregulated and understudied field, a qualitative study allowed the exploration of major themes in medical assisting and the establishment of a framework from which further study can occur.
“Water cooler” learning
Authors: Waring Justin J. , Bishop Simon
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper seeks to identify the instances of informal knowledge sharing at the “backstage” of the clinical environment and to demonstrate their contribution to organisational learning and patient safety.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of an ethnographic study in two Day Surgery Units in the UK National Health Service undertaken over three months in various clinical and non‐clinical settings. The observations recorded the instances of communication and knowledge sharing, as well as taking into account the wider socio‐cultural and organisational context.

Findings

The study identified situations of informal knowledge sharing. These were characterised by degrees of homogeneity/heterogeneity and patency/privacy. Focusing on three sites – staff lounge, storeroom, and theatre corridor, the paper elaborates the context and content of knowledge sharing, and the contributions to clinical practice, service function and learning.

Practical implications

Backstage knowledge sharing is premised on shared understanding, trust and mutuality and situational opportunity. This contrasts with more formal models of learning advocated in policy. Services managers might embrace, rather than replace, these relationships, whilst emphasising the need for knowledge to be shared more widely amongst peers and service leaders.

Originality/value

To date, little research in the area of patient safety has considered the contribution of informal learning at the “backstage”. This is an important, if taken‐for‐granted, part of everyday practice and makes a “hidden” contribution to organisational learning.