bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating search engines
Authors: Garoufallou Emmanouel
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The use of search engines is the most widely acceptable way for information foraging on the net. Their wide use as an information retrieval tool has created the need for their evaluation as a means of improving their performance. This research attempts to record Greek librarians' views on search engines: their performance and characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 16 librarians were asked to search for a specific topic using eight search engines; four international (google.com, altavista.com, yahoo.com, exalead.com) and four Greek (google.gr (searching only for Greek text), in.gr, robby.gr, find.gr). Eight questionnaires were completed by each participant; one for every search engine. A total of 128 initial searches were performed by the librarians, followed by 86 further searches with changed search terms. The librarians recorded their experiences in retrieving information and evaluated the first 20 results according to the criteria of precision, relevancy of the retrieved records and the way the results were displayed by each search tool.

Findings

Analysis of the results leads to conclusions about librarians' familiarity with search engines and their views on the retrieved information. The results indicated that participants were satisfied by the presentation, the visualization, the quality and value of results and they were very satisfied with the search engines' interfaces. Thus, most retrieved items were relevant and so the degree of precision was satisfactory. Users preferred mainly international search engines rather than Greek search engines. It was evident that most librarians were very satisfied with the performance of the search engines and felt that their queries had been answered successfully.

Originality/value

The paper presents one of the few studies regarding international and Greek search engines and their use by librarians. The study gathered data with regard to the views of Greek librarians on the use of search engines and their characteristics. In addition, it recorded the attitude of librarians to both the search process and subsequent information retrieval, using Greek and international search engines. It compared different search engines and studied parameters like quality, precision, presentation and value of the search results. This research could form the basis of further study of librarians' behavior in the use of search engines for satisfying their information needs and comparison of information retrieval systems.
Query classification and study of university students' search trends
Authors: Maabreh Majdi A. , Al‐Kabi Mohammed N. , Alsmadi Izzat M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This study is an attempt to develop an automatic identification method for Arabic web queries and divide them into several query types using data mining. In addition, it seeks to evaluate the impact of the academic environment on using the internet.

Design/methodology/approach

The web log files were collected from one of the higher institute's servers over a one‐month period. A special program was designed and implemented to extract web search queries from these files and also to automatically classify Arabic queries into three query types (i.e. Navigational, Transactional, and Informational queries) based on predefined specifications for each type.

Findings

The results indicate that students are slowly and gradually using the internet for more relevant academic purposes. Tests showed that it is possible to automatically classify Arabic queries based on query terms, with 80.6 per cent to 80.2 per cent accuracy for the two phases of the test respectively. In their future strategies, Jordanian universities should apply methods to encourage university students to use the internet for academic purposes. Web search engines in general and Arabic search engines in particular may benefit from the proposed classification method in order to improve the effectiveness and relevancy of their results in accordance with users' needs.

Originality/value

Studying internet web logs has been the subject of many papers. However, the particular domain, and the specific focuses on this research are what can distinguish it from the others.
Theory and research on social issues in organizations
Authors: Lukaszewski Kimberly M. , Stone Dianna L.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The primary purpose of this article is to raise awareness about the need for additional theory and research on social issues in organizations. It also provides an introduction to the Special Issue, and a description of the articles in it.

Design/methodology/approach

The article highlights the social challenges facing individuals, organizations, and society in the twenty‐first century. It also suggests that many worldwide challenges have been accompanied by some of the most significant research contributions in applied psychology. As a result, the authors argue that researchers in the field often have unique knowledge and skills that can be applied to solve some of these challenges.

Findings

The article notes that additional theory and research is needed to help alleviate some of the social challenges that organizations and their members face in the twenty‐first century.

Research limitations/implications

The article offers suggestions for generating new research ideas that can be used to ameliorate the problems facing individuals, organizations and society as a whole.

Practical implications

The article argues that knowledge in applied psychology can be used to deal with the challenges facing society as a whole.

Social implications

The article also indicates that research on social issues is needed to address many of the challenges faced in today's world.

Originality/value

The article provides a unique contribution to the literature in applied psychology because it raises awareness of the need for additional theory and research on social issues in organizations.
Communication channel consideration for in‐home services
Authors: van Birgelen Marcel , Dellaert Benedict G.C. , de Ruyter Ko
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to examine communication channels for in‐home service provision. In particular, it aims to focus on the joint effect of two converging trends: the increase of in‐home services involving high degrees of customer participation;and the extension of the number of channels that service firms use to communicate with customers. It seeks to assess which benefits customers desire of communication channels across in‐home service production formats and how these benefit desires determine their communication channel consideration for in‐home services.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on a literature review a conceptual framework was constructed. Using the association pattern technique (APT), a survey of 383 customers of a Dutch energy company was carried out. The APT enabled the authors to quantify the relationship between participative in‐home service provision situations, desired communication channel benefits, and communication channel consideration.

Findings

Results show that customers focus more strongly on functionally‐ and economically‐oriented communication channel benefits in high customer participation service formats. In contrast, socially‐oriented communication channel benefits seem more appropriate when low customer participation in the provision of in‐home services is involved. The match between benefits desired by the customer and benefits provided by a communication channel is identified as a central mechanism behind communication channel consideration for in‐home services. Furthermore, evidence is found for customer heterogeneity in desired communication channel benefits and channel consideration, based on age, education, and past channel usage.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the multichannel knowledge base by hypothesizing and demonstrating how specific benefit desires arise from allowing/requiring customers to participate in in‐home service provision. The study also provides valuable insight into the mechanism behind communication channel consideration by customers during in‐home service provision.
Integrated framework for earthquake consequences management
Authors: Momani Naill M.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

There are several researches which addressed earthquake probabilistic and deterministic risk assessment without linking the decision‐making process in order to implement policies, plans, and procedures to prevent or reduce human and monetary losses. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This study suggests an integrated framework for earthquake consequences management. The framework consists of earthquake consequences model, value analysis, and socio‐economic analysis, as well as dynamic integration for implementing strategies, policies, and plans.

Findings

The developed integrated framework for earthquakes consequences management could be used for a study area especially in developing countries in which human and capital resources are limited.

Research limitations/implications

There is a need to have different case studies to demonstrate how the integrated framework for earthquake consequence management could reduce human and monetary losses due to earthquakes for a study area.

Originality/value

It is important to consider earthquake risks as part of strategic planning for societies that are vulnerable to future earthquakes.
A model to explain a business contingency process
Authors: Lindström John
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a model to explain a business contingency process to senior management and other employees in organizations during education or training on business continuity planning.

Design/methodology/approach

The model has been developed and evaluated/tested in three comprehensive cases. Senior management, IT managers and employees in the three case organizations participated in this action research effort during the development, implementation, education or training on business continuity plans and planning.

Findings

The model has been evaluated/tested, and is suitable for explaining what may characterize a business contingency process to senior managements and employees in both public and private sector organizations.

Practical implications

The model can be used for explaining the issues to senior management and to form the fundament for building a business continuity plan which is part of an organization's IT and information security program. It may also be used to explain what a business contingency process is to other staff in an organization. The model can also be used to model parts of business continuity planning, as a basis for training planning, and as support in different training contexts to achieve individual and organizational learning on business continuity plans and activities.

Originality/value

The model is graphically visualized and the concept can be adapted to any organization.
HR's future in a global setting
Authors: Reilly Peter
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The aim of this article is to argue that human resources (HR) should adjust the role it performs depending on its local environment – what is desirable and achievable.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper discusses the arguments for and against the arrival of a universal culture and whether there exists a best approach to HR management.

Findings

The paper suggests that HR should approach the drive to uniformity of HR policy and practice with caution, rather it should proceed on a case by case basis judging the costs and benefits of harmonization in the light of the particular policy and circumstances.

Practical implications

The paper makes suggestions as to how HR can adapt that can be applied in practice.

Originality/value

The paper expresses a desire for a more flexible, autonomous HR function.
Neuroscience and talent
Authors: Hills Jan
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This article aims to describe three examples of findings in neuroscience that can inform the execution of talent strategy.

Design/methodology/approach

This viewpoint article is prepared by an independent writer, who offers their expertise on the intersections between neuroscience and talent management.

Findings

Neuroscience research explains how we can better implement talent strategy and why adopting certain policies will get the business better results.

Practical implications

By applying the ideas in the article, talent leaders can be more successful in executing their talent strategy and meeting business goals.

Originality/value

This article offers an insight into how neuroscience can be applied to business practice in order to aid talent management and development
Meta‐analysis of the impact of the research setting on conflict studies
Authors: Poitras Jean
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the importance of research setting in conflict research design. Research studies conducted in a university setting were compared to other research conducted in workplaces.

Design/methodology/approach

A meta‐analysis of 28 related papers was conducted to compute effect sizes of the linkages between task conflict, relationship conflict, satisfaction and performance. The impact of the research setting (i.e. university vs workplace) as a moderator was also tested.

Findings

The research setting was found to be a significant moderator of the linkage between task conflict and satisfaction, task conflict and performance as well as relationship conflict and performance. In each case of moderation, the effect sizes were much greater when research was conducted in the workplace than in a university setting.

Research limitations/implications

The findings suggest that research conducted in a university setting likely underestimated the impact of conflicts on the level of satisfaction and the degree of performance as compared to research conducted in a workplace setting.

Practical implications

The author proposes that more conflict studies should be conducted in a field setting. In addition, it is proposed that such studies include more often satisfaction and related variables in research design.

Originality/value

The majority of conflict research is conducted in a university setting (e.g. students doing a project for credit), under the assumption that the setting is a fair approximation of the workplace. The present study shows that this assumption might not be true.
Relationship conflict in supervisor‐subordinate dyads:a subordinate perspective
Authors: Ismail Kiran M. , Richard Orlando C. , Taylor Edward C.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to offer insights regarding antecedents and consequences of relationship conflict in supervisor‐subordinate dyads, regardless of the demographic characteristics of the dyads. The authors explain the causes and outcomes of relationship conflict utilizing an affective approach, and suggest that factors such as moods, values, and situational context play an important role in influencing relationship conflict and its outcomes – intention to quit and trust in supervisor.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors surveyed 200 employees of multiple companies in the greater Atlanta, Georgia area. They utilized hierarchical regression, (with the inclusion of two‐ and three‐way interaction terms) to test their hypotheses and interaction effects.

Findings

Negative mood and positive mood interacted to impact the level of relationship conflict experienced by subordinates. Subordinates' collectivism values strengthened the impact of the positive mood‐negative mood interaction on relationship conflict. Mentoring and supervisor‐subordinate dyad tenure moderated the relationship conflict to outcomes associations.

Originality/value

The study goes beyond traditional relational demography research in order to offer new insights and perspectives on the causes and outcomes of relationship conflict at different hierarchical levels from an affective approach, specifically, moods theory. Since relationship conflict is an inevitable process, an understanding of antecedents and consequences of the conflict can allow managers to be better equipped to create a healthy work environment.
The impact of cross‐cultural dynamics on change management
Authors: Kirsch Christina , Chelliah John , Parry Warren
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce a proprietary survey instrument – “ChangeTracking Survey®” – which measures employees' perceptions of organizational change and captures their experiences during the course of change management in their organizations.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors present an empirical study of employees involved in change management projects in 146 organizations situated in 27 countries across a variety of industries, nationalities and languages, using robust statistical analysis. Hofstede's work is used as a foundation for understanding cross‐cultural differences in organizations from across the world.

Findings

The paper finds significant differences in certain characteristics of change projects between different nationalities.

Practical implications

The findings present new and recent knowledge of the cross‐cultural dynamics in change management projects, which would prove useful to change managers throughout the world.

Originality/value

This research is recent and is extensive in its examination of the effects of national cultures on change management initiatives internationally.
An empirical evaluation of management and operational capabilities for innovation via co‐creation
Authors: Reay Paul , Seddighi Hamid R.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The aim of this study is twofold: to evaluate empirically the incidence of co‐creation activities; and to identify company characteristics that enable capabilities for innovation via co‐creation.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a positivist research methodology that focused on data collection via a literature‐based designed questionnaire, followed by analyses of the collected data. This first stage study focused investigation on a sample of high turnover companies, the “Top 250 Companies” annual list published by Durham University Business School, operating in the North East region of England. Eighty complete questionnaires were returned, representing a response rate of 32 per cent.

Findings

The results of the survey indicated that co‐creation activities and capabilities were not extensive in the sample population. However, the companies that were strategically focussed on meeting the demands of individual customers were more inclined to have developed capabilities necessary for co‐creation activities. This finding supported the presuppositions for co‐creation identified in the literature. There was also evidence in the survey that indicated the need for the greater use of information and computing technology in business processes in the sample population, and the improvement of communications systems to enhance co‐creation activities and create value.

Originality/value

This is the first attempt to explore and quantify co‐creation activities in the UK across industry sectors, and to demonstrate how such analyses can be used to assist business growth and economic development.
Reason‐code based model to forecast product returns
Authors: Potdar Amit , Rogers Jamie
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to propose a method for forecasting product returns based on reason codes. The methodology uses two approaches, namely central tendency approach and extreme point approach, and is developed for the consumer electronics industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology presented here is based on the return reason codes (RC). The incoming returns are split into different categories using reason codes. These reason codes are further analyzed to forecast returns. The computation part of this model uses a combination of two approaches, namely extreme point approach and central tendency approach. Both the approaches are used separately for separate types of reason codes and then results are added together. The extreme point approach is based on data envelopment analysis (DEA) as a first step combined with a linear regression while central tendency approach uses a moving average. For certain type of returns, DEA evaluates relative ranks of products using single input and multiple outputs. Once this is completed, linear regression defines a correlation between relative rank (predictor variable) and return quantity (response variable). For the remaining type of returns the authors use a moving average of percent returns to estimate the central tendency.

Findings

Reason codes and consumer behavior in combination with statistical methods can be used to forecast product returns.

Practical implications

Consumer electronics retailers and manufacturers can effectively use this methodology to forecast product returns. This methodology effectively addresses and covers different product return scenarios.

Originality/value

This research paper shows the new way of forecasting product returns i.e. reason codes based forecasting by combining two approaches, namely extreme point approach and central tendency approach. Also, it shows a new way of translating the consumer behavior into meaningful data; that data can be fed to a model to forecast product returns.
Roadmapping the next wave of sustainable IT
Authors: Harmon Robert R. , Demirkan Haluk , Raffo David
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to explore the strategic dimensions and drivers of sustainable IT and roadmaps its likely development as a disruptive innovative force over the next decade as it moves beyond the datacenter and throughout the IT organization, the firm, markets, and society at large. Its purpose is to provide a comprehensive view of the emerging industry to inform sustainable IT strategy development and stimulate future research.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses a qualitative three‐phase process to develop the technology roadmap for the sustainable IT industry. The phases are domain analysis, which features a comprehensive literature review and expert panel depth interviews; roadmap development, which involved two technology roadmapping brainstorming sessions; and follow‐up activity, to confirm roadmap session results with the expert panel.

Findings

The paper defines the emerging field of sustainable IT and its green IT and sustainable IT services dimensions. It identifies market segments, products and services, technologies, compliance and reporting requirements, organizational changes, and value migration and roadmaps a likely future landscape for the development of sustainable IT strategy.

Practical implications

Developing a sustainable IT strategy is a major issue for most organizations. Managers and researchers can use the results of this study to better understand the dimensions of sustainable IT and its likely future growth paths. Researchers will find the comprehensive approach to the topic useful for planning future technological innovations and determining their disruptive potential. Managers can use the results to benchmark their current situation and develop strategies for the next generation of sustainable IT service solutions.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to apply technology roadmapping to the emerging sustainable IT industry. It provides a strategic planning perspective of the future of the industry as it migrates from green‐IT strategies for reducing the costs and energy use of computing to sustainable IT services that hold the potential for transforming complex environmental and social responsibility problems into business opportunities.
A novel multi‐criteria decision‐making combining Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory technique for technology evaluation
Authors: Shen Yung‐Chi , Lin Grace T.R. , Tzeng Gwo‐Hshiung
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This study aims to propose a hybrid technology evaluation process integrating the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) technique and the analytic network process (ANP) with novel MCDM method for the organic light emitting diode (OLED) technology evaluation. The DEMATEL is used to detect and build the complex network relationship map (NRM) among dimensions/criteria. The ANP is employed to conduct the dependence and feedback among criteria and to decide the relative weights of the criteria by super‐matrix. The combination of DEMATEL technique and ANP with novel MCDM method is used to perform for constructing a technology evaluation structure.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes a hybrid approach integrating the DEMATEL and the ANP to construct a technology evaluation and decision‐making model for OLED. Taiwan is a research base in this study. This is for the purpose of offering an example as to how a technology firm or even a country can evaluate or position certain emerging technology in the process of resource investment decision‐making.

Findings

This study suggests a hybrid technology evaluation approach integrating the DEMATEL technique and the ANP approach. When policy makers and R&D planners design R&D programs in emerging technology fields, the authors' proposed model can help to assess whether it is worth investing in the expected technology or not, for all concerned. Besides, using Taiwan's OLED as an example, this study has generated a conclusion comprising several strategic suggestions and managerial implications.

Originality/value

The whole approach developed by this study can serve as a reference to construct an evaluation framework to evaluate other technology fields in order to propose some guidance for R&D planning or strategy making in the industry applied the aimed technology. The weights distributed to the prospects and the problems can also serve as a reference of whether the R&D investment in the new technology is worthwhile for all concerned. Future research can adopt the approach proposed in this study to evaluate the worth of R&D investment in other targeted technologies.
Public health implications of healthcare‐associated infections
Authors: Tellez‐Marfin Anthony
Published: April 2012

Purpose

From the symposium keynote address, this paper aims to explore how healthcare‐associated infections (HAIs) have been transformed from being only a hospital concern to a much broader public health concern.

Design/ methodology/ approach

The paper is a narrative review.

Findings

HAIs have the characteristics that define issues as public health problems. As a result, public health departments can become important partners in the evolving hospital infection control field. However, whether all state health departments can afford to add HAI experts and whether current public health department HAI activities will be effective in preventing HAIs remain important questions.

Practical implications

Public health agencies must be selective about focusing limited resources into areas where they can protect and improve the public's health; whether HAIs are such an area remains to be seen. Although HAIs have historically been the focus of hospitals and hospital‐based services, public health involvement has been mandated through state and federal legislation. In theory, the new mandate is appropriate; in practice, its impact and value need to be comprehensively assessed.

Originality/value

The interdisciplinary team required to evaluate HAI mandatory public reporting comprehensively needs to start from an understanding of the history and concepts underlying public health practice.
The US experience with mandatory public reporting
Authors: Birnbaum David
Published: April 2012

Purpose

From a perspective inside one of the most advanced of the state programs, this presentation aims to explore issues of whom are we trying to reach; what information are we trying to convey; when did this reporting start; where can anyone find reports; why are we doing this; and how does it work. This is, however, neither a typical consumer informatics problem nor a subject that public health is used to dealing with.

Design/ methodology/ approach

The paper is a narrative review of personal experience.

Findings

Despite achievements, there are fundamental knowledge gaps and unsubstantiated assumptions underlying mandatory public reporting. Research and better role delineation are urgently needed to optimize current choices and ultimately determine whether this is the most cost‐effective strategy among alternative prevention investments.

Practical implications

Public health departments are in uncharted territory with this new area of activity, faced with fundamental knowledge gaps that potentially hamper chances of success. Perspectives explored in this part of the Universities Council Symposium help frame a research agenda and guide evolution of less advanced programs.

Originality/value

The Universities Council, established and coordinated by Washington State's HAI Program, is unique in taking an interdisciplinary approach to comprehensive examination of the unsubstantiated assumptions underlying mandatory public reporting.
State and federal legislative interests
Authors: Birnbaum David , Stricof Rachel
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to briefly describe the increasingly complex array of organizations influencing American healthcare‐associated infection (HAI) prevention efforts during the modern era of infection control.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is a narrative review.

Findings

The modern era of hospital infection control began in the 1950s, but received relatively little publicity until the dawn of the twenty‐first century. Since then, there has been a wave of unprecedented magnitude in individual state legislation mandates followed by a shift from state to federal agency activity. The resulting programs are in varying stages of development, ability, sustainability, and coordination.

Practical implications

Many government and healthcare entities are in uncharted territory with this new area of activity, facing challenges in having to coordinate work with many new and unfamiliar partners. Perspectives explored in this part of the Universities Council Symposium help by mapping out the various stakeholders in order to foster a research agenda through better understanding of powerful political players and their influence.

Originality/value

This is one of the first efforts to describe and map the evolving range of state and federal forces influencing hospitals' efforts to prevent healthcare‐associated infections.
The myth of “transferable skills” for senior executives – key lessons to be learned
Authors: Gray Harry
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to challenge the notion that senior managers and executives have a set of “transferable skills” that can be successfully ported from one type of organization to another and even within the same organization.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper reflects on published information.

Findings

The paper calls for a different type of approach to developing senior managers and leaders that requires them to reflect on their own practice.

Originality/value

The paper draws the reader's attention to a potential underlying pattern in the failure of many senior appointments across different industry sectors.
Do non‐profit organizations ever really learn from their mistakes – or are they doomed to repeat them?
Authors: Santora Joseph C. , Sarros James C.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The aim of this article was to emphasize that board member failure to develop a succession plan places the organization in a precarious status quo mode, and thereby to help educate executive directors and board members about the need for an executive succession plan.

Design/methodology/approach

Case study methods were used to collect data presented in the case narrative.

Findings

The results of the authors' case study suggest that organizations that do not plan for executive succession events jeopardize their ability to pursue new opportunities.

Research limitations/implications

Generalizability of a single case study may be a research concern despite its in‐depth investigation, analysis, and findings.

Practical implications

Executive directors and board members must recognize the importance of an executive succession plan to ensure smooth transition from one executive to another.

Originality/value

In these complex times it is a strategic imperative that organizations are ready to address issues of uncertainty. An executive succession plan can help ensure organizational responses to changing internal and external environmental conditions.
Strategy in crisis: knowledge vacuum in practitioners
Authors: Dandira Martin
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to help organisations view strategy as a profession and something that needs training rather than something that is hard‐wired in executives when they are employed to top positions in organisations.

Design/methodology/approach

The author conducted research in organizations and found that strategy is in a state of crisis and has hit on hard times, mainly because executives do not have knowledge in strategic management and organisations make assumptions when executives are employed that they are strategists.

Findings

The assumption that when executives are employed they can think and act strategically has been refuted by this study since executives have shown lack of knowledge of strategic issues.

Practical implications

Methods are provided for organizations so that they can reduce the vacuum in strategy practitioners.

Originality/value

This paper gives practical advice from situations in organizations and helps organizations to reduce the vacuum in strategy practitioners.
Six Sigma and leadership: some observations and agenda for future research
Authors: Suresh Subashini , Antony Jiju , Kumar Maneesh , Douglas Alex
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Leadership has for a long time been a topic that attracts the attention of both academics and practitioners. In spite of the extensive literature on leadership and very little literature on leadership in Six Sigma, there is almost a complete absence to explain how and what leadership characteristics are needed for successful implementation of Six Sigma initiatives. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This research adopts a triangulation method, however for the purpose of this paper; the focus is on a thorough review of literature.

Findings

From an exhaustive literature review, this research has made some observations and developed an agenda for research. This is presented in the form of an integrated leader, leadership and Six Sigma framework in addressing organisation sustainability issues.

Originality/value

The developed integrated framework for the successful deployment of Six Sigma contributes to knowledge which is underpinned by robust literature review.
Rural small firm service quality: an exploratory study
Authors: Moyes David
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Rural entrepreneurship research traditionally focuses on the farmer or rural communities. Little work has been done to examine the ways in which small rural firms operating in and around rural towns develop their service quality priorities. This study seeks to examine the approaches to service quality of 12 such businesses and compare their priorities for service quality with the evaluation criteria of rural service consumers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper adopts a multi‐method approach within the qualitative paradigm. A total of 12 business‐owners were interviewed and the critical incident technique (CIT) was employed with 60 rural consumers.

Findings

The service priorities of rural service firms and their customers do not match. The businesses privilege tangible aspects of their service delivery, but the primary cause of customer satisfaction and dissatisfaction is found to be the behaviour of service staff. The service quality propositions of the businesses are driven by the competencies and priorities of their owner‐managers and are not informed by market research.

Research limitations/implications

A defining feature of small rural firms is their limited resource base. The businesses prioritise quality features which are not highly valued by customers whilst neglecting those which are. Scarce resources could be employed more productively.

Originality/value

For the first time service priorities of rural small firms are contrasted with the evaluation criteria of rural customers.
Entrepreneurial action and the rules of the game
Authors: Campbell Noel D.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this editorial is to introduce the Journal of Entrepreneurship and Public Policy (JEPP).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper outlines the primary objectives of JEPP.

Findings

JEPP was created to encourage and disseminate quality research about the vital relationships among institutions, entrepreneurship and economic outcomes. JEPP 's aim is to improve the quality of scholarly and public discourse about entrepreneurship and development policies. In general, JEPP seeks high‐quality articles that say something interesting about public policy, entrepreneurship and economic development.

Originality/value

The editorial describes the thinking behind JEPP, and the journal's objectives. JEPP welcomes all scholars and individuals with professional or personal interests in acquiring and sharing knowledge about institutions, entrepreneurship, and economic outcomes.
Trade openness and cultural creative destruction
Authors: Coyne Christopher J. , Williamson Claudia R.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyze empirically the net effect of trade openness on “economic culture”, measured by indicators of trust, respect, level of self‐determination, and obedience. Openness to international trade means that societies are more likely to be exposed to alternative attitudes, beliefs, ideas, and values leading to a Schumpeterian process of creative destruction whereby culture is destroyed on some margins and enhanced on others.

Design/methodology/approach

Using data on trade openness from Quinn and Sachs and Warner, the paper empirically evaluates the impact of trade openness on economic culture. The paper's measure of culture is taken from Tabellini and Williamson and Kerekes, where data from the World Values Survey is aggregated to create a culture variable. The paper isolates the impact of trade policies on economic culture through a variety of empirical strategies including both panel and cross sectional analysis.

Findings

The central finding of the study is that a society's openness to international trade generates, on net, positive effects on economic culture. The more open a country is to trade, the more likely it is to possess culture conducive to economic interaction and entrepreneurship.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the existing literature by studying the impact of trade openness on culture. While previous studies have asked “Does culture affect economic outcomes?”, this paper explores the answer to the related question, “How does openness to trade affect culture?”.
State‐funded angel investor tax credits
Authors: Hendon John R. , Bell Joseph R. , Blair Brittany , Martin Don K.
Published: April 2012

Purpose

Over the past decade more than 20 states have begun to offer tax credits to angel investors in an attempt to increase state economic growth. These credits are intended to increase new venture investment, create high‐paying and knowledge‐based jobs, and increase tax revenue collections, but there is some debate over costs and benefits associated with these credits. This paper aims to investigate this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper will examine the implementation and perceived effectiveness of tax credit programs in Hawaii, Louisiana, Wisconsin, Minnesota, Oregon, and Vermont. These states were chosen for this research sample based on their differing physical locations within the USA and the uniqueness of the characteristics of each state's chosen tax credit program.

Findings

The paper reveals that state investment tax credit programs vary widely in areas of eligibility, level of funding available per investment and per year, and whether or not the credits are refundable. All of these factors can cause significant variability in effectiveness of a state program.

Practical implications

Recommended criteria for achieving an outcome that may result in lawmaker support for tax credit incentives will be outlined based on the success, trial, and error of various state programs. These criteria will allow some commonality in analysis of potential or ongoing incentive programs.

Originality/value

This paper provides an analysis of the various existing state investment tax credit programs and identifies characteristics of such programs that may, if used during program formation, result in greater confidence by lawmakers in the program's overall effectiveness and provide a greater commitment to program success.
Three‐dimensional morphological analysis of C‐shaped canals in mandibular first premolars in a Chinese population
Authors: Fan B. , Ye W. , Xie E. , Wu H. , Gutmann J. L.
Published: April 2012

Fan B, Ye W, Xie E, Wu H, Gutmann JL. Three‐dimensional morphological analysis of C‐shaped canals in mandibular first premolars in a Chinese population. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 1035–1041, 2012.

Aim  To investigate and compare the unique anatomical features and positioning of C‐shaped canals in mandibular first premolars with and without radicular grooves in a Chinese population.

Methodology  A total of 327 extracted mandibular first premolars including 146 with radicular grooves and 181 without radicular grooves from a Chinese population were scanned by μCT‐50 or μCT‐80. After reconstruction, canal systems were classified according to a modified Vertucci method and the anatomical features evaluated. The data were analysed by one‐way anova test, Chi‐square test and Fisher’s exact test (P < 0.05).

Results  Of 146 mandibular first premolars with a radicular groove, 97 had C‐shaped canals, the predominant anatomical canal type being Vb (P < 0.001), which was characterized by an oval canal in the coronal part and a semicolon or continuous C‐shape beneath the groove. Of the 181 mandibular first premolars without a radicular groove, no C‐shaped canal system was observed, and the percentage of Ia (97.8%) was significantly higher than those of other types (P < 0.001).

Conclusion  In teeth from a Chinese population, mandibular first premolars with radicular grooves had a high incidence of C‐shaped canal systems with anatomical variations along the root.
Protein Ser/ Thr phosphatases – the ugly ducklings of cell signalling
Authors: Brautigan David L.
Published: April 2012

This review traces the historical origins and conceptual developments leading to the current state of knowledge of the three superfamilies of protein Ser/Thr phosphatases. ‘PR enzyme’ was identified as an enzyme that inactivates glycogen phosphorylase, although it took 10 years before this ugly duckling was recognized for its true identity as a protein Ser/Thr phosphatase. Ethanol denaturation for purification in the 1970s yielded a phosphatase that exhibited broad specificity, which was resolved into type‐1 and type‐2 phosphatases in the 1980s. More recent developments show that regulation and specificity are achieved through assembly of multisubunit holoenzymes, transient phosphorylation and the action of inhibitor proteins. Still not widely appreciated, there are hundreds of discrete protein Ser/ Thr phosphatases available to counteract protein kinases, offering potential therapeutic targets. Signalling networks and modelling schemes need to incorporate the full gamut of protein Ser/ Thr phosphatases and their interconnections.
Nucleotide Excision Repair Is Reduced in Oral Epithelial Tissues Compared with Skin‡
Authors: Mitchell David , Paniker Lakshmi , Godar Dianne
Published: April 2012

Ultraviolet radiation (UVR) exposure to internal tissues for diagnostic, therapeutic and cosmetic procedures has increased dramatically over the past decade. The greatest increase in UVR exposure of internal tissues occurs in the cosmetic industry where it is combined with oxidizing agents for teeth whitening, often in conjunction with indoor tanning. To address potential carcinogenic risks of these procedures, we analyzed the formation and repair of the DNA photoproducts associated with the signature mutations of UVR. Radioimmunoassay was used to quantify the induction and repair of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers and pyrimidine(6‐4)pyrimidone photoproducts in DNA purified from three reconstructed tissues, EpiDermTM, EpiGingivalTM and EpiOralTM. We observed comparable levels of DNA damage in all tissues immediately after UVR exposure. In contrast, repair was significantly reduced in both oral tissues compared with EpiDermTM. Our data suggest that UVR exposure of oral tissues can result in accumulation of DNA damage and increase the risk for carcinoma and melanoma of the mouth. Because NER is a broad‐spectrum defense against DNA damage caused by a variety of agents in addition to UVR, our data suggest that the relatively low NER efficiency observed in oral tissues may have wide‐ranging consequences in this highly exposed environment.
Sensitivity and Specificity of a Blood and Urine Galactomannan Antigen Assay for Diagnosis of Systemic Aspergillosis in Dogs
Authors: Garcia R.S. , Wheat L.J. , Cook A.K. , Kirsch E.J. , Sykes J.E.
Published: April 2012

Background

Diagnosis of canine systemic aspergillosis requires fungal culture from a sterile site, or confirmatory histopathology from a nonsterile site. Invasive specimen collection techniques may be necessary.

Objective

To evaluate the sensitivity and specificity of a serum and urine Aspergillus galactomannan antigen (GMA) ELISA assay for diagnosis of systemic aspergillosis in dogs.

Design

Multicenter study.

Animals

Thirteen dogs with systemic aspergillosis and 89 dogs with other diseases. Thirty‐seven of the 89 dogs had signs that resembled those of systemic aspergillosis and 52 dogs were not suspected to have aspergillosis.

Procedure

The GMA ELISA was performed on serum specimens from all dogs and urine specimens from 67 dogs. Galactomannan indices (GMI) ≥ 0.5 were considered positive. Results for dogs in each group were compared.

Results and Conclusions

The sensitivity and specificity of the assay for serum were 92 and 86%, respectively, and for urine were 88 and 92%, respectively. False negatives were seen only in dogs with localized pulmonary aspergillosis. Use of a cutoff GMI of 1.5 increased specificity to 93% for both serum and urine without loss of sensitivity for diagnosis of disseminated infection. High‐level false positives (> 1.5) occurred in dogs with other systemic mycoses and those treated with Plasmalyte.

Clinical Relevance

Serum and urine Aspergillus GMA ELISA is a noninvasive, sensitive, and specific test for the diagnosis of disseminated aspergillosis in dogs when a cutoff GMI of ≥ 1.5 is used.
Temporal Orchestration of Glycogen Synthase (GlgA) Gene Expression and Glycogen Accumulation in the Oceanic Picoplanktonic Cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. Strain WH8103
Authors: Wyman Michael , Thom Claire
Published: April 2012

Glycogen is accumulated during the latter half of the diel cycle in
Synechococcus
sp. strain WH8103 following a midday maximum in
glgA
(encoding glycogen synthase) mRNA abundance. This temporal pattern is quite distinct from that of
Prochlorococcus
and may highlight divergent regulatory control of carbon/nitrogen metabolism in these closely related picocyanobacteria.