bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alteromonas addita sp. nov.
Authors: Ivanova Elena P. , Bowman John P. , Lysenko Anatoly M. , Zhukova Natalia V. , Gorshkova Nataliya M. , Sergeev Alexander F. , Mikhailov Valery V.
Published: May 2005

On the basis of phenotypic, genotypic characteristics and analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences, a novel species belonging to the genus Alteromonas is described. A non-pigmented, motile, Gram-negative bacterium designated R10SW13T was isolated from sea water samples collected in Chazhma Bay (Sea of Japan, Pacific Ocean). The novel organism mainly grew between 4 °C and 37 °C, was neutrophilic and slightly halophilic, tolerating up to 10 % NaCl. Strain R10SW13T was haemolytic and was able to degrade starch and Tween 80 and to degrade gelatin and agar weakly, but did not degrade casein. Phosphatidylethanolamine (44·3±0·9 %) and phosphatidylglycerol (55·7±0·9 %) were the predominant phospholipids. The major fatty acids formed were typical for the genus Alteromonas, including 16 : 0, 16 : 1ω-7 and 18 : 1ω-7. The G+C content of the DNA was 43·4 mol%. DNA–DNA hybridization experiments showed 38–53 % binding with the DNAs of type strains of phylogenetically related species of the genus Alteromonas, namely: Alteromonas macleodii, Alteromonas marina, Alteromonas stellipolaris, Alteromonas litorea, ‘Alteromonas macleodii subsp. fijiensis’ and ‘Alteromonas infernus’. Based on these results, a novel species, Alteromonas addita sp. nov., is proposed, with strain R10SW13T (=KMM 3600T=KCTC 12195T=LMG 22532T) as the type strain.
Erythrobacter luteolus sp. nov., isolated from a tidal flat of the Yellow Sea in Korea
Authors: Yoon Jung-Hoon , Kang Kook Hee , Yeo Soo-Hwan , Oh Tae-Kwang
Published: May 2005

A Gram-negative, non-spore-forming, yellow-pigmented, slightly halophilic bacterial strain, SW-109T, was isolated from a tidal flat of the Yellow Sea in Korea, and subjected to a polyphasic taxonomic study. This isolate did not produce bacteriochlorophyllaand contained ubiquinone-10 as the predominant respiratory lipoquinone and C18 : 1ω7cas the major fatty acid. The DNA G+C content was 60·3 mol%. Phylogenetic analyses based on 16S rRNA gene sequences showed that strain SW-109Tis phylogenetically affiliated to the genusErythrobacterof the familySphingomonadaceae. Strain SW-109Texhibited levels of 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity to the type strains ofErythrobacterspecies of 94·0–96·3 %, making it possible to categorize strain SW-109Tas a species that is separate from previously recognizedErythrobacterspecies. On the basis of its phenotypic properties and phylogenetic distinctiveness, SW-109T(=KCTC 12311T=JCM 12599T) was classified as the type strain of a novelErythrobacterspecies, for which the nameErythrobacter luteolussp. nov. is proposed.
Syntrophobacter sulfatireducens sp. nov., a novel syntrophic, propionate-oxidizing bacterium isolated from UASB reactors
Authors: Chen Shuangya , Liu Xiaoli , Dong Xiuzhu
Published: May 2005

Two obligate anaerobes, TB8106Tand WZH410, which degraded propionate in syntrophic association with methanogens, were isolated from two upflow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors, one treating brewery wastewater and the other bean curd wastewater. The strains were Gram-negative, non-spore-forming and non-motile. Cells were egg-shaped, with a size of 1·0–1·3×1·8–2·2 μm. Growth was observed at 20–48 °C and pH 6·2–8·8. Both strains converted propionate to acetate and methane in co-culture with methanogens, and grew on propionate plus sulfate in pure culture, with a doubling time of 52–55 h at 37 °C. Sulfate and thiosulfate both served as electron acceptors for propionate degradation. The DNA G+C contents of the two strains were 58·5 and 58·7 mol%, respectively. Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA gene sequences revealed that the strains were closely related to a propionate-oxidizing syntrophic bacterium,Syntrophobacter fumaroxidansDSM 10017T(94·7 % similarity). However, the novel strains could not ferment fumarate, and grew at a more alkaline pH range thanSyntrophobacter fumaroxidans. Moreover, the novel isolates had obviously higher growth rates on propionate plus sulfate (0·12 day−1) thanSyntrophobacter fumaroxidansDSM 10017T(0·024 day−1). Therefore, a novel species,Syntrophobacter sulfatireducenssp. nov., is proposed, with strain TB8106T(=AS 1.5016T=DSM 16706T) as the type strain.
Arcobacter halophilus sp. nov., the first obligate halophile in the genus Arcobacter
Authors: Donachie Stuart P. , Bowman John P. , On Stephen L. W. , Alam Maqsudul
Published: May 2005

A Gram-negative bacterium, designated LA31BT, was isolated from water collected from a hypersaline lagoon on Laysan Atoll in the north-western Hawaiian Islands. Single cells of LA31BTwere slightly curved but became helical as their length increased. Preliminary characterization based on 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis showed that LA31BTshared 96·0 % identity with anArcobactersp. isolated from a cyanobacterial mat in hypersaline Lake Sinai, and 94 % identity withArcobacter nitrofigilis, the type species of the genusArcobacter. A polyphasic taxonomic study was conducted and confirmed the phylogenetic affiliation of strain LA31BTto the genusArcobacter. However, LA31BTwas found to be distinct from all recognizedArcobacterspecies, by a comprehensive biochemical test analysis, whole-cell fatty acid profiling, DNA G+C content (35 mol% in LA31BT) and degree of DNA–DNA reassociation. Most notably, LA31BTwas found to be an obligate halophile, a hitherto undescribed feature among recognizedArcobacterspecies. These data indicate that LA31BTshould be considered to represent a novel species in the genusArcobacter, for which the nameArcobacter halophilussp. nov. is proposed. This is the first obligately halophilic member of the genus. The type strain is LA31BT(=ATCC BAA-1022T=CIP 108450T).
Methanogenium frittonii Harris et al. 1996 is a later synonym of Methanoculleus thermophilus (Rivard and Smith 1982) Maestrojuán et al. 1990
Authors: Spring Stefan , Schumann Peter , Spröer Cathrin
Published: May 2005

The 16S rRNA gene sequence of [Methanogenium] frittonii DSM 2832T was determined and was found to be 99·9 % similar to the sequence of Methanoculleus thermophilus DSM 2373T. DNA–DNA hybridizations between both strains revealed 86 % DNA–DNA binding, indicating that both strains belong to the same species. The determination of the DNA G+C content of both type strains, DSM 2832T and DSM 2373T, revealed values of 56·1 and 59·1 mol%, respectively. Based on the phenotypic and genotypic characteristics, it is proposed to unite the species [Methanogenium] frittonii and Methanoculleus thermophilus under the name Methanoculleus thermophilus, which is the earlier synonym and hence has priority. Emended descriptions of the species Methanoculleus thermophilus and the genus Methanogenium are also given.
Classification of a large microarray data set: Algorithm comparison and analysis of drug signatures
Authors: Natsoulis Georges , El Ghaoui Laurent , Lanckriet Gert R.G. , Tolley Alexander M. , Leroy Fabrice , Dunlea Shane , Eynon Barrett P. , Pearson Cecelia I. , Tugendreich Stuart , Jarnagin Kurt
Published: May 2005

A large gene expression database has been produced that characterizes the gene expression and physiological effects of hundreds of approved and withdrawn drugs, toxicants, and biochemical standards in various organs of live rats. In order to derive useful biological knowledge from this large database, a variety of supervised classification algorithms were compared using a 597-microarray subset of the data. Our studies show that several types of linear classifiers based on Support Vector Machines (SVMs) and Logistic Regression can be used to derive readily interpretable drug signatures with high classification performance. Both methods can be tuned to produce classifiers of drug treatments in the form of short, weighted gene lists which upon analysis reveal that some of the signature genes have a positive contribution (act as “rewards” for the class-of-interest) while others have a negative contribution (act as “penalties”) to the classification decision. The combination of reward and penalty genes enhances performance by keeping the number of false positive treatments low. The results of these algorithms are combined with feature selection techniques that further reduce the length of the drug signatures, an important step towards the development of useful diagnostic biomarkers and low-cost assays. Multiple signatures with no genes in common can be generated for the same classification end-point. Comparison of these gene lists identifies biological processes characteristic of a given class.
Conservation of regulatory sequences and gene expression patterns in the disintegrating Drosophila Hox gene complex
Authors: Negre Bárbara , Casillas Sònia , Suzanne Magali , Sánchez-Herrero Ernesto , Akam Michael , Nefedov Michael , Barbadilla Antonio , de Jong Pieter , Ruiz Alfredo
Published: May 2005

Homeotic (Hox) genes are usually clustered and arranged in the same order as they are expressed along the anteroposterior body axis of metazoans. The mechanistic explanation for this colinearity has been elusive, and it may well be that a single and universal cause does not exist. The Hox-gene complex (HOM-C) has been rearranged differently in several Drosophila species, producing a striking diversity of Hox gene organizations. We investigated the genomic and functional consequences of the two HOM-C splits present in Drosophila buzzatii. Firstly, we sequenced two regions of the D. buzzatii genome, one containing the genes labial and abdominal A, and another one including proboscipedia, and compared their organization with that of D. melanogaster and D. pseudoobscura in order to map precisely the two splits. Then, a plethora of conserved noncoding sequences, which are putative enhancers, were identified around the three Hox genes closer to the splits. The position and order of these enhancers are conserved, with minor exceptions, between the three Drosophila species. Finally, we analyzed the expression patterns of the same three genes in embryos and imaginal discs of four Drosophila species with different Hox-gene organizations. The results show that their expression patterns are conserved despite the HOM-C splits. We conclude that, in Drosophila, Hox-gene clustering is not an absolute requirement for proper function. Rather, the organization of Hox genes is modular, and their clustering seems the result of phylogenetic inertia more than functional necessity.
Cell-free cotranslation and selection using in vitro virus for high-throughput analysis of protein–protein interactions and complexes
Authors: Miyamoto-Sato Etsuko , Ishizaka Masamichi , Horisawa Kenichi , Tateyama Seiji , Takashima Hideaki , Fuse Shinichiro , Sue Kaori , Hirai Naoya , Masuoka Kazuyo , Yanagawa Hiroshi
Published: May 2005

We have developed a simple and totally in vitro selection procedure based on cell-free cotranslation using a highly stable and efficient in vitro virus (IVV). Cell-free cotranslation of tagged bait and prey proteins is advantageous for the formation of protein complexes and allows high-throughput analysis of protein–protein interactions (PPI) as a result of providing in vitro instead of in vivo preparation of bait proteins. The use of plural selection rounds and a two-step purification of the IVV selection, followed by in vitro post-selection, is advantageous for decreasing false positives. In a single experiment using bait Fos, more than 10 interactors, including not only direct, but also indirect interactions, were enriched. Further, previously unidentified proteins containing novel leucine zipper (L-ZIP) motifs with minimal binding sites identified by sequence alignment as functional elements were detected as a result of using a randomly primed cDNA library. Thus, we consider that this simple IVV selection system based on cell-free cotranslation could be applicable to high-throughput and comprehensive analysis of PPI and complexes in large-scale settings involving parallel bait proteins.
Exploring relationships and mining data with the UCSC Gene Sorter: Figure 1.
Authors: Kent W.J. , Hsu Fan , Karolchik Donna , Kuhn Robert M. , Clawson Hiram , Trumbower Heather , Haussler David
Published: May 2005

In parallel with the human genome sequencing and assembly effort, many tools have been developed to examine the structure and function of the human gene set. The University of California Santa Cruz (UCSC) Gene Sorter has been created as a gene-based counterpart to the chromosome-oriented UCSC Genome Browser to facilitate the study of gene function and evolution. This simple, but powerful tool provides a graphical display of related genes that can be sorted and filtered based on a variety of criteria. Genes may be ordered based on such characteristics as expression profiles, proximity in genome, shared Gene Ontology (GO) terms, and protein similarity. The display can be restricted to a gene set meeting a specific set of constraints by filtering on expression levels, gene name or ID, chromosomal position, and so on. The default set of information for each gene entry—gene name, selected expression data, a BLASTP E-value, genomic position, and a description—can be configured to include many other types of data, including expanded expression data, related accession numbers and IDs, orthologs in other species, GO terms, and much more. The Gene Sorter, a CGI-based Web application written in C with a MySQL database, is tightly integrated with the other applications in the UCSC Genome Browser suite. Available on a selected subset of the genome assemblies found in the Genome Browser, it further enhances the usefulness of the UCSC tool set in interactive genomic exploration and analysis.
Begin at the beginning: Predicting genes with 5′ UTRs
Authors: Brown Randall H. , Gross Samuel S. , Brent Michael R.
Published: May 2005

The retrainable, comparative gene predictor N-SCAN integrates multigenome modeling and 5′ untranslated region (5′ UTR) modeling. In this article, we evaluate N-SCAN's transcription-start site (TSS) and first exon predictions both computationally and experimentally. The computational results indicate that N-SCAN is more accurate than any of the other tools we tested at predicting the TSS and the complete first exon. It is the only one of these tools that can predict complete gene structures together with 5′ UTRs. Experimental evaluation shows that N-SCAN can be used to validate novel UTR introns in human gene predictions that do not overlap any RefSeq gene and even to correct RefSeq mRNAs by adding validated UTR exons that are missing from RefSeq.
Factors that inhibit economic development in the information and communications technology industry at the regional level
Authors: Henson James M.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Exploratory research to extend and refine a computer‐based interview tool to help determine the factors that companies in the information and communications technology (ICT) industry consider obstacles in regards to their economic development environment within a localized region.

Design/methodology/approach

A computer‐based process was employed in telephone interviews to solicit and record responses from executives in ICT‐related companies for the 210 cases that are included in this study.

Findings

Several obstacles to economic development were identified, and factor analysis was employed to refine the data into a few broad areas of concern.

Research limitations/implications

This is a snapshot of attitudes within the ICT industry at this point in time. Another study in the future will try to determine if there is a correlation between the presence of obstacles identified in this study and the rate of growth of the ICT industry. Additional research will be required to determine if the factors developed through factor analysis can be related to any underlying causal factors.

Practical implications

Data and findings were provided to community leaders involved in economic development. Comparisons within a particular region and between regions can provide guidance for developmental activities.

Originality/value

This research seeks to identify and assist in minimizing obstacles to economic development within the ICT industry for any local region. While this study was conducted in a limited region of the US, it can be applied to any region in the world. Applicability to underdeveloped countries would probably require consideration of other possible obstacles such as lack of capital, infrastructure constraints, speed of services, language, and a general lack of modernization.
The use of multiple intelligences to enhance team productivity
Authors: Green Anna L. , Hill Aretha Y. , Friday Earnest , Friday Shawnta S.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To provide practitioners and researchers with a framework for using individuals' multiple intelligences (MI) to enhance team productivity.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a general review paper that examines how the theory of MI as espoused by Gardner may be used to enhance the productivity of teams. Based on its use in organizational training, it is suggested that MI theory can and should be applied in the context of organizational teams. This descriptive paper is divided into the following sections: literature reviews of team development, team building, MI, and the use of MI in organizational training; and the development of a framework for using MI to enhance team productivity.

Findings

Provides information about how individual team members' varying degrees of the eight MI espoused by Gardner may be used to enhance their contributions to the team. Suggests that the enhanced contributions from team members will lead to enhanced team productivity, and ultimately, enhanced organizational productivity.

Research limitations/implications

Empirical research is needed to test the MI and team productivity framework presented. Additionally, from a conceptual and empirical perspective, the relationship between team productivity and other contemporary dimensions of intelligence, such as cultural, emotional, and practical intelligences, need to be investigated.

Practical implications

A very useful framework for managers to use as a tool to enhance the productivity of their teams by encouraging members to use their complementary intelligences to successfully accomplish team goals.

Originality/value

No other paper offers managers a practical framework to encourage team members to use more than just their written and verbal intelligences to complete an assigned task.
High performance: ownership and decision‐making in SMEs
Authors: O'Regan Nicholas , Sims Martin , Ghobadian Abby
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To date there is a dearth of research on strategic decision‐making in manufacturing small and medium sized firms. This research paper focuses on the key drivers of decision‐making and organisational performance: ownership, decision‐making (type and level) and employee deployment. These drivers are defined and operationalised.

Design/methodology/approach

The validity of the constructs used and their relevance was tested through the qualitative phase of the research – in‐depth interviews with chief executives and employer representative bodies. The survey instrument was also pilot tested.

Findings

The findings indicate that the sample can be divided into performance leaders and laggards. Over 75 per cent of the leaders are independently owned and over 66 per cent of the laggards are subsidiary firms. Accordingly, ownership is a key factor in overall performance. This is confirmed by the degree of profitability of both classifications.

Practical implications

The practical implications of the study are outlined in the paper. Chief executives are encouraged to focus on the aspects of ownership, decision making, and employee deployment that are associated with enhanced performance.

Originality/value

This study focuses on decision making and employee deployment according to ownership and overall performance – factors hitherto under researched in SMEs.
Spices and type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kelble Abigail
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The paper is a review of current research on phytochemicals and how they may alleviate type 2 diabetes by improving insulin activity in the body.

Design/methodology/approach

Literature searches were conducted to find a link between common household spices and type 2 diabetes. Only common household spices were researched so that any link found between spices and type 2 diabetes could lead to practical home‐based recommendations for changes in a person's diet.

Findings

Cinnamon, garlic, ginger, basil, oregano, nutmeg, tea, bay leaf, allspice, curry, and others were found to play a role in lowering blood glucose, increasing insulin sensitivity, and increasing glucose synthesis in response to food intake. In addition, these spices may improve blood circulation, decrease platelet aggregation, lower blood pressure, and act as blood vessel protectants, ameliorating the cardiovascular disease often associated with type 2 diabetes. To gain these benefits, only average amounts commonly used in foods are necessary, such as amounts usually sprinkled in foods or amounts used in recipes. At high concentrated doses, the advantages to utilizing spices may be inhibited.

Originality/value

The findings that phytochemicals in common household spices can improve insulin activity in the body present a more natural way to possibly treat and prevent type 2 diabetes.
Effect of Propionibacterium shermanii metabolites on sensory properties and shelf life of UF‐Feta cheese
Authors: Mohamadi Sani A. , Ehsani M.R. , Mazaheri Asadi M.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Fungal growth on UF‐Feta cheese is one of the most important factors of consumer dissatisfaction in Iran. Propionibacterium shermanii metabolites was used as a biopreservative to retard this inconvenient. This research was done to determine the concentration of the metabolite that increases cheese shelf life with no adverse effect on sensory properties.

Design/methodology/approach

The cheese was manufactured according to the methods used in the Iranian UF‐Feta cheese dairy plants. The metabolite was used in the order of 0.5 and 1 per cent (w/w) of retentate weight. After incubation while reaching the required pH, cheese samples were stored at two temperatures including 4 and 25 degree C in which analysis was done during a period of 90 and 70 days respectively. Effect of the metabolite on shelf life (absence of visible fungi growth), total viable fungi, microbial load, pH as well as sensory properties including taste, odour, colour and overall acceptability was compared with the control (untreated sample).

Findings

Results showed that the shelf life duration of the cheese was extended by approx. 35–43 per cent. Total viable fungi was most efficiently reduced using the metabolite but there was no significant differences in microbial load. Addition of the metabolite didn’t affect pH of cheese at either temperatures compared with control. Results of sensory evaluation showed that the taste and odour of cheese containing 0.5 per cent of the metabolite was preferred as compare to the others (p<0.1). The intervension had no effect no effect on colour scores of cheese. The texture of control was better than the others (p<0.1).

Originality/value

In UF‐Feta cheese, the presence of fungi represents a major concern for cheese manufacturers. The results indicate that the fungal growth can be minimized using Propionibacterium shermanii metabolites without undesirable effects on sensory properties. The potential of the metabolite to inhibit yeast growth on UF‐Feta cheese was a new finding in this research.
Assessment of daily iron intake for the Pakistani population
Authors: Akhter P. , Mohammad D. , Orfi S.D. , Ahmad N. , Rehman K.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Iron deficiency is the number one nutritional disorder in the world and is quite common in Pakistan. Iron deficiency anaemia may result from a low dietary intake, inadequate intestinal absorption, excessive blood loss, and/or increased needs. While iron overload is also responsible of number of diseases. The normal iron status of our body is usually maintained by controlling amount of iron absorbed from food. The recommended daily allowance (RDA) for adult male and female in the age from 19 to 50 years is 8 and 18mg, respectively. While RDA above 50 years is it for both genders i.e. 8mg (NIH, 2002). Nutritional status of dietary iron was estimated to combat the iron related diseases in Pakistani population.

Design/methodology/approach

Food samples were collected from major cities/districts of the country using market basket method. Daily diets were prepared and analyzed for iron contents using Atomic Absorption Spectrometry (AAS).

Findings

An average value of iron concentration was measured to be 52±15μg/g, which leads to an average daily dietary intake of 31±9.5mg/d, with a variation of 12 to 52mg/d. The estimated values of our daily iron intake are about 2 times higher than the recommended daily allowance set by international committee of radiological protection (ICRP) and US food and nutrition board (FNB). Apparently our diet seems enriched in iron contents. But its bioavailability may be low due to dietary composition. Major portion of our diet is based on plant food (71 per cent), followed by milk products (17 per cent) and other miscellaneous items, whereas consumption of animal food is only 5 per cent. This dietary composition and our food intake habits in the presence of iron inhibiters (i.e. phytate in plant food, tannin and polyphenols in tea and calcium) could be the leading cause of iron deficiency anemia among the Pakistani population.

Originality/value

Iron deficiency anemia is quiet common and cause of concern in Pakistan. The findings of the study indicate that bioavailability of iron to Pakistani population can be enhanced/improved with slight alterations/adjustments in dietary habits.
Performance evaluation of a mango stone decorticator
Authors: Jekayinfa S.O. , Durowoju M.O.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

In Nigeria, the mango fruits consumption rate is high during its peak period and this has always resulted in environmental sanitation problem because the mango seeds are thrown to the surroundings immediately the fruits are eaten. Finding more useful application of the kernel would be a way to reduce the environmental pollution. Mechanical decortication of the leathery mango stone remains the only viable option that can support any prospected commercial uses of the mango kernel.

Design/methodology/approach

The decorticator consists of a hopper, a decorticating chamber, spiked shaft, screen shaker and discharge spout. The machine performance was evaluated in terms of decorticating efficiency, mechanical damage and sieve loss.

Findings

Results of the evaluation show that the optimum performance of the decorticator was at a speed of 900rpm, feed rate of 250kg/h and power requirement of 2.50kW.

Originality/value

Mango stones are useful as substitute for maize in finishing broiler diets. The kernel is also used for medicinal purposes in moderation of anti‐bacterial and anti‐fungal activities. Therefore, the designed mango stone decorticator enhances the complete mechanization processes of mango products.
Healthy Start – will it provide optimal infant and child nutrition?
Authors: Belton Neville R.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Critical assessment of Government proposals to introduce Healthy Start, the first reform of the Welfare Food Scheme for over 60 years.

Design/methodology/approach

Consideration has been made of the changes proposed in the new Healthy Start programme. While credit is given for the advantages in the new scheme, an assessment is made of deficiencies in the new proposals and suggestions made of what still needs to be incorporated into the plans before Healthy Start is launched in 2005.

Findings

Sixty years after the wartime Government established the Welfare Food Scheme in 1940, the present Government, proposes to replace the Welfare Food Scheme with Healthy Start amid concerns that early nutrition of many infants and children is not optimal. Many components of the new scheme have been broadly welcomed, but there is considerable disquiet that the proposals fall short of what was proposed by a COMA Scientific Review Panel in 2002. Nutritional problems such as iron and vitamin D deficiency are being largely neglected. The opportunity to include follow‐on formula, is being ignored. This will adversely affect the nutrition of infants and children in some of the poorest families in the country.

Practical implications

Unless changes are made, an opportunity is being lost because the new proposals fall short of what is desirable.

Originality/value

A review has been made of the new Healthy Start scheme for infants, children and their mothers before the scheme is implemented. It is important that revisions are made before the scheme is launched.
Controlling healthcare associated infections (HAI) and the role of facilities management in achieving “quality” in healthcare: a three‐dimensional view
Authors: Liyanage Champika , Egbu Charles
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To explore the role of facilities management (FM) in the control of Healthcare Associated Infections (HAI) and then to discuss a three‐dimensional approach which can be used for FM services in the control of infections (HAI).

Design/methodology/approach

Most of what is put forward in this paper is based on a research project which is at its early stages. The discussions are therefore grounded on a thorough review of literature accomplished as part of the research project. Unstructured interviews with experts (sample – 25) in infection control in National Health Service in Scotland (NHSS), carried out concurrently as a pilot study, also provided useful insights when writing up this paper.

Findings

It is suggested that integrating FM effectively with the core services is vital in avoiding duplication of work carried out by the healthcare workers. Continuous measurement and management of performance of FM services is also vital in the control of HAI. In addition, it was identified that managing knowledge is important to retain, develop, organize, and utilize the organization's capability of managing HAI. Overall, an increased concerted effort; better integration of processes and practices between clinical and non‐clinical activities in the healthcare sector and effective dissemination of knowledge are all vital in controlling HAI to achieve “quality” in healthcare provisions. More empirical research is needed to explore the many complex and significant ways in which FM can be exploited for improved control of HAI.

Research limitations/implications

Both targeted guidelines on the role of FM in the control of HAI as well as the paucity of relevant literature on related areas are limitations.

Practical implications

The culture of healthcare managers and functional level staff is a major implication when operationalizing the three‐dimensional approach introduced in the paper.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on one of the major issues in healthcare, i.e. HAI. Few have taken an FM perspective on this issue. This paper therefore adds significantly to our understanding of the control of HAI from a non‐clinical perspective.
The impact of an intelligent classroom on pupils' interactive behaviour
Authors: Tibúrcio Túlio , Finch Edward F.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to determine whether new intelligent classrooms will affect the behaviour of children in their new learning environments.

Design/methodology/approach

A multi‐method study approach was used to carry out the research. Behavioural mapping was used to observe and monitor the classroom environment and analyse usage. Two new classrooms designed by INTEGER (Intelligent and Green) in two different UK schools provided the case studies to determine whether intelligent buildings (learning environments) can enhance learning experiences.

Findings

Several factors were observed in the learning environments: mobility, flexibility, use of technology, interactions. Relationships among them were found indicating that the new environments have positive impact on pupils' behaviour.

Practical implications

A very useful feedback for the Classrooms of the Future initiative will be provided, which can be used as basis for the School of the Future initiative.

Originality/value

The behavioural analysis method described in this study will enable an evaluation of the “Schools of the Future” concept, under children's perspective. Using a real life laboratory gives contribution to the education field by rethinking the classroom environment and the way of teaching.
Transparency: a two‐way mirror?
Authors: Bessire Dominique
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Transparency is assumed to improve markets' efficiency, to enhance better corporate governance and finally, to ensure moralisation of business life. The paper aims to the realities that prevailing discourses on transparency dissimulate.

Design/methodology/approach

First, a genealogical method is used to explore the theoretical roots, which underpin claims for a greater transparency (reduction of information asymmetry in academic discourses). Second, the analogies between mainstream theories on corporate governance (which legitimate the demand for transparency) and the Panopticon, the famous architecture conceived by Bentham are pinpointed. Finally, the reflections developed by philosophers such as Ricoeur and Henriot on ethics are exploited to explain why transparency is unable to produce the expected effects.

Findings

First, discourses on transparency often conceal reinsurance manœuvres and power struggles. Second, transparency appears as a modernised manifestation of panopticism: a common base (the concept of utility), the same fundamental assumption (the opportunistic nature of man) and a similar answer (discipline). More generally, panopticism and discourses on transparency are embedded in the same utilitarian philosophy which does not grant any space either for responsibility or for ethics and therefore, favours generalised amorality.

Research limitations/implications

As a consequence it is suggested that one should explore the possibility of elaborating an economics theory, which would get rid of the concept of utility and a theory of the enterprise, which would take as key concepts creativity and trust, instead of opportunism.

Originality/value

Through the deconstruction of prevailing discourses on transparency, the paper points to the intrinsic anti‐humanistic character of mainstream economics and organisation theories and suggests alternative issues. It therefore may contribute to both enlightenment and emancipatory aims (in the Habermasian sense).
Closing the gender gap in Bangladesh: inequality in education, employment and earnings
Authors: Hossain Mohammad A. , Tisdell Clement A.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To provide and assess trends on the status of women in Bangladesh in terms of key macro level indicators namely, women's labour force participation, educational attainments and earnings vis‐à‐vis men.

Design/methodology/approach

The trends in women's workforce participation, educational attainments and earnings compared with those of men are evaluated on the basis of descriptive statistics. Correlation and regression techniques are used to examine the relationship between women's education and workforce participation, and to predict the equalisation of female‐male educational attainment.

Findings

The study finds evidence of growing commercialisation of women's work in Bangladesh. Although most women in the workforce are self‐employed or employed in low‐skill jobs, their participation in high skill and entrepreneurial jobs as well as policy‐making bodies is on the rise. While gender wage differentials have been considerably reduced in many industries, in general, women tend to be paid less than men. There have been remarkable improvements in women's educational attainments. Further, female education is found to be positively correlated with their workforce participation. Overall, the findings indicate an improvement in women's status in Bangladesh.

Research limitations/implications

The suggested relationship between women's education and employment needs to be further investigated using rigorous econometric techniques in order to distinguish between productivity‐enhancing effects of education and other determinants of increased female employment (FEMPL).

Practical implications

The research should be a useful reference to international and domestic policy‐makers as well as members of the academia and future researchers on the issue.

Originality/value

This study represents the first of its kind in the Bangladesh context. It provides valuable information about, and an independent assessment of, women's status in Bangladesh at the national level.
Technology revolutions and social development
Authors: Daniels Peter L.
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Aims to assess the potential for a broad “green” technoeconomic paradigm (TEP) to effectively achieve and sustain higher levels of welfare from economic and environmental sources in manylower income countries (LIC). A green TEP comprises a new socioeconomic system based upon a set of inter‐related technologies that increase human welfare, but focus upon saving material, energy and other environmental resources. TEPs have pervasive social and economic effects that include substantial productivity, trade competitiveness, and environmental quality advantages. The desirability of such economic change must incorporate the general approach of social economics and alternative notions of well‐being.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is largely discursive in nature and provides a systematic identification of the LIC conditions that are likely to promote, and benefit from, the pervasive adoption of material‐ and energy‐saving technologies. Some results of an exploratory cross‐country study of the empirical link between technology capability and the human development index (HDI) are utilized in the discussion.

Findings

The paper concludes that a green TEP may well provide a viable alternative development approach in the LICs. The main advantages are derived from related resource efficiency gains and reductions in the socioeconomic metabolism, and the benefits of a relative production factor shift toward labor (and away from materials, energy, and environment‐intensive capital). The potential for LICs is also facilitated by the positive spillovers and decreasing cost of green TEP‐related knowledge and technology diffusion in the expanding, decentralizing global communication network. The higher income nations would need to play a significant role in this process.

Originality/value

Ecological modernisation and material and energy‐saving technologies are widely viewed as essential for achieving long‐term economic and social well‐being improvements in the twenty‐first century and beyond. Discussion of this promising approach typically assumes that this transformation is only viable in the technological and economic context of the higher income nations. However, this paper provides a detailed case for the strategic encouragement and adoption of a green TEP for sustainable economic development and environmental conditions in LICs.
Effects of the internet on the marketing communication of service companies
Authors: Lagrosen Stefan
Published: May 2005

Purpose

The purpose is to gain an understanding of how traditional service companies use the internet in their marketing communication and what effect the internet has had on their use of other marketing communication channels.

Design/methodology/approach

Multiple case studies have been carried out at 19 Swedish service companies.

Findings

The findings show that three different communications strategies are used depending on the scope of internet use and the extent to which the companies utilise relationship marketing. Small or decentralised companies use the personalised relationship communication strategy. Large companies have the option of using either the mass relationship communication strategy or the mass transaction communication strategy. The characteristics of the strategies and their respective effects on the other marketing communications tools are described.

Research limitations/implications

The conceptualisation of the communications strategies provides a framework that gives added understanding and is useful for further studies.

Practical implications

The presentation of the strategies and their implications should be useful for managers of service companies when planning their communication activities. The managers will benefit from making a conscious choice between the strategies and considering their features and implications.

Originality/value

The conceptualisation of the internet communications strategies provides a novel view of the communications options for service firms. This framework is useful for further research and for managers of service firms.
An integrative approach to diagnosing service quality of public parks
Authors: Eng Teck‐Yong , Niininen Outi
Published: May 2005

Purpose

Aims to examine the services and facilities provided by public parks revealing that the attributes corresponding to performance of service delivery involve the interaction between non‐human aspects of physical environment and emotional experience of users which differ from common human aspects of service quality. Also, a service quality programme without reference to other service providers can easily lead to misguided or counterproductive service improvement strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study suggests an integrative approach to diagnosing service quality of public parks that comprises an assessment of performance outcomes and desires to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of service quality and visitor satisfaction as regards frequent users and low users of public parks. Measures pertaining to this approach were examined by a survey of nine public parks in the county of Derbyshire in the UK.

Findings

The results show the effect of individual attributes on visitor satisfaction and their diagnostic value for service improvements. The analysis of desires highlights the differences of pre‐visit (prepurchase) evaluation variables between frequent users and low users.

Research limitations/implications

The integrative approach of service quality analysis proposed by this study accounts for the limitations of relying on a single conventional measure of service quality.

Originality/value

The differences may help identify new dimensions for further research and suggest future behavioural intentions such as loyalty and repeat visits. With the knowledge of individual service components that affect overall visitor satisfaction, managers can pin‐point areas for improvement to overcome service shortcomings, and allocate scarce resources more effectively.
Crossing the great divide: critiquing the sacred secular dichotomy in accounting research
Authors: McPhail Ken , Gorringe Tim , Gray Rob
Published: May 2005

Purpose

To introduce the three papers in the special section, an overflow from a recent special issue of the journal.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a brief review of the papers.

Findings

The three papers focus on a common concern: the sacred secular dichotomy that has been employed in studies of accounting in religious organisations.

Originality/value

This introduction focuses on papers that encourage interdisciplinary research in accounting that draws specifically on theological insights.
The sacred and the secular: examining the role of accounting in the religious context
Authors: Jacobs Kerry
Published: May 2005

Purpose

This paper explores the role of accounting in a religious setting and evaluates the sacred‐secular divide developed by Laughlin and Booth who suggested that accounting is antithetical to religious values, embodying the secular as opposed to the sacred. Yet Christian thinkers such as Wesley and Neibuhr reject this position and indicate the accounting and financial issues do not necessarily conflict with religious values.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores narratives drawn from the Church of Scotland, the life and practices of Charles Wesley and the Christian doctrine of stewardship as a way of determining the verisimilitude of the “accounting as secular” claim.

Findings

These accounts and individual perceptions drawn from the Church of Scotland were more consistent with the concept of a jurisdictional conflict between accountants and clergy than a sacred‐secular divide. The life of John Wesley and the doctrine of stewardship show that accounting can be part of practices of spirituality. Sacred or secular accounting was found to be an issue of perception.

Research limitations/implications

There is scope for future research into perceptions of accounting and the role(s) of accounting in sacred spaces.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the sacred role and aspects to accounting.
Does one size fit all? The sacred and secular divide revisited with insights from Niebuhr's typology of social action
Authors: Hardy Les , Ballis Harry
Published: May 2005

Purpose

This paper offers a critique of the sacred and secular dichotomy, a theoretical framework recently introduced into the accounting and accountability literature primarily by Laughlin and Booth. The divide has been used to interpret the ambiguous roles of accountants and accounting practices within religious organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The present paper examines the divide by drawing on H. Richard Niebuhr's narrative theology, and in particular, the distinction that he draws between “internal history” and “external history”. Niebuhr's discussion of internal/external history and his typology of social action are used to demonstrate the many ways that religious communities balance faith and social practice.

Findings

The paper argues that the activities and contributions of accountants and accounting practices are not by virtue of their secularity antithetical to the values of religious organizations. It contends that within many religious settings, secular activities, such as accounting, often co‐exist, promote and are used to support religious beliefs and practices.

Research limitations/implications

The paper challenges the dominant paradigm by highlighting the importance of adopting flexible theoretical frameworks.

Originality/value

It will be of value to accounting and accountability researchers who are seeking to gain a better understanding of the fit between accounting practices and the internal histories of religions.