bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Many or most genes in Arabidopsis transposed after the origin of the order Brassicales
Authors: Freeling Michael , Lyons Eric , Pedersen Brent , Alam Maqsudul , Ming Ray , Lisch Damon
Published: October 2008

Previous to this work, typical genes were thought to move from one position to another infrequently. On the contrary, we now estimate that between one-fourth and three-fourths of the genes in Arabidopsis transposed in the Brassicales. We used the CoGe comparative genomics system to perform and visualize multiple orthologous chromosomal alignments. Using this tool, we found large differences between different categories of genes. Ten of the gene families examined, including genes in most transcription factor families, exhibited a median frequency of 5% transposed genes. In contrast, other gene families were composed largely of transposed genes: NB-LRR disease-resistance genes, genes encoding MADS-box and B3 transcription factors, and genes encoding F-box proteins. A unique method involving transposition-rich regions of genome allowed us to obtain an indirect estimate of the positional stability of the average gene. The observed differences between gene families raise important questions concerning the causes and consequences of gene transposition.
Active Alu retrotransposons in the human genome
Authors: Bennett E. Andrew , Keller Heiko , Mills Ryan E. , Schmidt Steffen , Moran John V. , Weichenrieder Oliver , Devine Scott E.
Published: October 2008

Alu retrotransposons evolved from 7SL RNA ∼65 million years ago and underwent several rounds of massive expansion in primate genomes. Consequently, the human genome currently harbors 1.1 million Alu copies. Some of these copies remain actively mobile and continue to produce both genetic variation and diseases by “jumping” to new genomic locations. However, it is unclear how many active Alu copies exist in the human genome and which Alu subfamilies harbor such copies. Here, we present a comprehensive functional analysis of Alu copies across the human genome. We cloned Alu copies from a variety of genomic locations and tested these copies in a plasmid-based mobilization assay. We show that functionally intact core Alu elements are highly abundant and far outnumber all other active transposons in humans. A range of Alu lineages were found to harbor such copies, including all modern AluY subfamilies and most AluS subfamilies. We also identified two major determinants of Alu activity: (1) The primary sequence of a given Alu copy, and (2) the ability of the encoded RNA to interact with SRP9/14 to form RNA/protein (RNP) complexes. We conclude that Alu elements pose the largest transposon-based mutagenic threat to the human genome. On the basis of our data, we have begun to identify Alu copies that are likely to produce genetic variation and diseases in humans.
Haplotype sorting using human fosmid clone end-sequence pairs
Authors: Kidd Jeffrey M. , Cheng Ze , Graves Tina , Fulton Bob , Wilson Richard K. , Eichler Evan E.
Published: October 2008

An important goal of human genetics and genomics is to understand the complete spectrum of genetic variation across a specific human haplotype. By combining information from a dense SNP map with fosmid end-sequence pairs (ESPs) aligned to the human genome reference sequence, we have developed a simple method to resolve human haplotypes using a previously developed clone resource. By partitioning ESPs into either haplotype, we have generated a haplotype-specific clone map for eight diploid genomes (four Yoruba African and four non-African samples). On average, 59% of each haploid genome is covered by haplotype-assigned clones with an N50 length of 110 kbp. By comparing this clone-based haplotype map against HapMap phased data sets, we estimate an error rate of 0.71% when trio information is available and 6.6% in its absence. We present these data in the form of an interactive browser that allows clones corresponding to specific haplotypes to be recovered and sequenced within these eight human genomes. As an example, we sequenced 165 fosmid clone inserts to generate 6.8 Mbp of sequenced haplotypes, and demonstrate its utility in uncovering phase-switching errors and for the discovery of novel SNPs especially in Asian and African samples. We discuss the potential application of this resource in understanding the pattern of genetic variation in complex regions of the genome that may not be adequately resolved by next-generation sequencing technology or SNP haplotype imputation.
F-Box Protein DOR Functions As a Novel Inhibitory Factor for Abscisic Acid-Induced Stomatal Closure under Drought Stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Yu'e , Xu Wenying , Li Zhonghui , Deng Xing Wang , Wu Weihua , Xue Yongbiao
Published: October 2008

Guard cells, which form stoma in leaf epidermis, sense and integrate environmental signals to modulate stomatal aperture in response to diverse conditions. Under drought stress, plants synthesize abscisic acid (ABA), which in turn induces a rapid closing of stoma, to prevent water loss by transpiration. However, many aspects of the molecular mechanism for ABA-mediated stomatal closure are still not understood. Here, we report a novel negative regulator of guard cell ABA signaling, DOR, in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). The DOR gene encodes a putative F-box protein, a member of the S-locus F-box-like family related to AhSLF-S2 and specifically interacting with ASK14 and CUL1. A null mutation in DOR resulted in a hypersensitive ABA response of stomatal closing and a substantial increase of drought tolerance; in contrast, the transgenic plants overexpressing DOR were more susceptible to the drought stress. DOR is strongly expressed in guard cells and suppressed by ABA treatment, suggesting a negative feedback loop of DOR in ABA responses. Double-mutant analyses of dor with ABA-insensitive mutant abi1-1 showed that abi1-1 is epistatic to dor, but no apparent change of phospholipase Dα1 was detected between the wild type and dor. Affymetrix GeneChip analysis showed that DOR likely regulates ABA biosynthesis under drought stress. Taken together, our results demonstrate that DOR acts independent of phospholipase Dα1 in an ABA signaling pathway to inhibit the ABA-induced stomatal closure under drought stress.
IMPa-4, anArabidopsisImportin α Isoform, Is Preferentially Involved inAgrobacterium-Mediated Plant Transformation
Authors: Bhattacharjee Saikat , Lee Lan-Ying , Oltmanns Heiko , Cao Hongbin , Veena  , Cuperus Joshua , Gelvin Stanton B.
Published: October 2008

Successful transformation of plants by Agrobacterium  tumefaciens requires that the bacterial T-complex actively escorts T-DNA into the host's nucleus. VirD2 and VirE2 are virulence proteins on the T-complex that have plant-functional nuclear localization signal sequences that may recruit importin α proteins of the plant for nuclear import. In this study, we evaluated the involvement of seven of the nine members of the Arabidopsis thaliana importin α family in Agrobacterium transformation. Yeast two-hybrid, plant bimolecular fluorescence complementation, and in vitro protein–protein interaction assays demonstrated that all tested Arabidopsis importin α members can interact with VirD2 and VirE2. However, only disruption of the importin IMPa-4 inhibited transformation and produced the rat (resistant to Agrobacterium transformation) phenotype. Overexpression of six importin α members, including IMPa-4, rescued the rat phenotype in the impa-4 mutant background. Roots of wild-type and impa-4 Arabidopsis plants expressing yellow fluorescent protein–VirD2 displayed nuclear localization of the fusion protein, indicating that nuclear import of VirD2 is not affected in the impa-4 mutant. Somewhat surprisingly, VirE2–yellow fluorescent protein mainly localized to the cytoplasm of both wild-type and impa-4 Arabidopsis cells and to the cytoplasm of wild-type tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) cells. However, bimolecular fluorescence complementation assays indicated that VirE2 could localize to the nucleus when IMPa-4, but not when IMPa-1, was overexpressed.
Chromosomal Phylogeny and Karyotype Evolution in x=7 Crucifer Species (Brassicaceae)
Authors: Mandáková Terezie , Lysak Martin A.
Published: October 2008

Karyotype evolution in species with identical chromosome number but belonging to distinct phylogenetic clades is a long-standing question of plant biology, intractable by conventional cytogenetic techniques. Here, we apply comparative chromosome painting (CCP) to reconstruct karyotype evolution in eight species with x=7 (2n=14, 28) chromosomes from six Brassicaceae tribes. CCP data allowed us to reconstruct an ancestral Proto-Calepineae Karyotype (PCK; n=7) shared by all x=7 species analyzed. The PCK has been preserved in the tribes Calepineae, Conringieae, and Noccaeeae, whereas karyotypes of Eutremeae, Isatideae, and Sisymbrieae are characterized by an additional translocation. The inferred chromosomal phylogeny provided compelling evidence for a monophyletic origin of the x=7 tribes. Moreover, chromosomal data along with previously published gene phylogenies strongly suggest the PCK to represent an ancestral karyotype of the tribe Brassiceae prior to its tribe-specific whole-genome triplication. As the PCK shares five chromosomes and conserved associations of genomic blocks with the putative Ancestral Crucifer Karyotype (n=8) of crucifer Lineage I, we propose that both karyotypes descended from a common ancestor. A tentative origin of the PCK via chromosome number reduction from n=8 to n=7 is outlined. Comparative chromosome maps of two important model species, Noccaea caerulescens and Thellungiella halophila, and complete karyotypes of two purported autotetraploid Calepineae species (2n=4x=28) were reconstructed by CCP.
Ethics in international business
Authors: Hurn Brian J.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasise the importance of the study of ethics in an international context in business courses.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper begins with proposed learning outcomes. It examines, using contemporary examples, the increased importance of corporate social responsibility (CSR), the implications of national and international legislation concerning ethical issues and the need for sound overall corporate governance. It concludes with analysis of recent progress towards sustaining ethical standards. The various key ethical dilemmas which occur in business are examined using recent examples, both from the UK and internationally.

Findings

The paper presents an optimistic analysis of recent progress made in the development of ethical standards in business, including suggestions for future good practice, both internationally and at company level.

Originality/value

The paper emphasises the importance of sound governance, which is fundamental to the success in fostering ethical practices in international business.
Developing directors, key questions for the training and development community
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to share the findings of investigations into how directors have and should be prepared for their boardroom roles.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the findings of surveys of director development undertaken by the author and others and the author's experience of advising over 100 boards on director and board development.

Findings

The findings suggest many directors and boards do not receive the development they require to be more effective in their roles. Trainers and developers interested in addressing their requirements need to understand the development role of the chairman of the board, the distinct nature of director development, obstacles to development at board level, the learning preferences of directors and formal and informal learning options that are available and ask key questions to assess the development context.

Practical implications

The surveys examined have mainly involved UK directors and unitary boards. The situation might be different in other countries. It would be helpful if more studies were undertaken of director and board development in other contexts and involving different board structures, e.g. two‐tier or management and supervisory boards. Directors need a proper induction and must remain current throughout their directorial career. Trainers and developers can address this requirement by a combination of formal and informal means.

Originality/value

The paper highlights the nature of the director development challenge, and that the boardroom represents a key learning environment. The paper should be of value to those who support directors and boards and have an interest in improving the competence of directors and the effectiveness of boards.
Adding value through the use of internet‐based testing
Authors: McDonald Angus S.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to describe the impact of internet technology on psychometric testing and the issues this raises for best practice in test use.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach draws on best practice in the field of psychometrics and the author's experience in using the internet for test delivery.

Findings

The internet offers may significant advantages for the delivery and application and psychometric tests, but also poses a number of significant challenges to good test use, particularly in terms of the quality of test materials, effective administration and the authenticity of test results. These challenges, however, need not undermine the effectiveness of tests when they are used sensitively and with due regard for the issues raised by remote testing through the internet. Engaging respondents in the testing process is identified as key to all parties getting the maximum value from the applications of tests, as is a developmental mindset which identifies the value to both test users and respondents of participating in any testing process.

Practical implications

Users of internet‐based tests need to be aware of how to evaluate the quality of test materials and how to administer tests effectively. Although issues around respondent authenticity remain, these can be significantly overcome by helping test takers seen how they will benefit from test completion. Guidelines are given to test users on effective test administration.

Originality/value

This paper offers practical guidance on how to maximise the effectiveness of the increasing number tests that are available for internet delivery.
“A list” instructional design
Authors: Lasher Neil
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to outline an updated, six‐point model for instructional design which takes account of modern delivery trends in learning, such as informal and workflow e‐learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The model is based on empirical research carried out over at least 20 years.

Findings

The paper finds that to adhere to the modern goal of aligning learning with business strategy, we need to predict the needs of the user and select the most useful content and delivery techniques. Until now, the instructional design model for informal and workflow e‐learning did not exist. Learners must be engaged by the learning programme/materials they are using. Learning modules should be narrowly focused to a single learning point. The learning content must be up‐to‐date and always retrievable. Learners must be motivated to use the new information they are being given via the learning materials. The effectiveness of learning materials is enhanced by the designer finding and exploiting something in the piece of learning that is significant to the learners and will affect them emotionally. Learners organise what they know through meaning and association; so, to get people to learn, we have to entice them – via building associations from what they know now to what we are going to teach them. Informal learning modules and workflow learning techniques do not always require delivery via a learning management system. Speed of access to learning materials is now an issue for users.

Originality/value

This paper explores a new – and augmented – model of instructional design which applies particularly to the design of e‐learning materials (which were unknown to the “key” instructional design gurus).
Why it is so hard to evaluate training in the workplace
Authors: Berge Zane L.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to explore these reasons regarding why it is difficult or perhaps impossible to properly evaluate the impact and effectiveness of workplace training.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach taken is to describe the barriers to effectively measure training in the workplace.

Findings

The paper finds that, essentially, training sometimes lacks planning, sponsorship, budget, or because training is done for the wrong reasons. Evaluation of training is also difficult because operating unit managers are looking for increased performance and not necessarily the increased learning on which trainers usually judge the success of their training. Additionally, in almost all cases, the lack of performance is only partially due to the need for training. Even when training is needed, a deficit of skills and knowledge is often a small part – 15 percent‐20 percent perhaps – of the overall lack of performance. Training's effectiveness in helping to increase performance is reduced even further since training is often wasted because the skills and knowledge gained in training are not applied on the job and thus have no impact. Add to these things, the antiquated accounting methods used to measure and evaluate training, and it becomes easy to understand why evaluation of the impact training has within the organization is difficult.

Originality/value

Knowing the causes for difficulty in evaluating training in the workplace may help planners in this field to develop ways to overcome them.
Embodying disability in diversity management research
Authors: Thanem Torkild
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an embodied approach to disability into the field of diversity management research.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper critically examines previous diversity management research and it draws on previous disability research in the social sciences to develop an embodied approach to disability for diversity management research.

Findings

The paper argues that an embodied approach is required because previous diversity management research on disability ignores important aspects of disability.

Research limitations/implications

The embodied approach to disability proposed in this paper expands the understanding of disability in diversity management research, and it discusses implications for future research and for organizations.

Originality/value

The paper is unique in proposing an embodied approach to disability in diversity management research.
Is there a male advantage in the effects of feedback and leadership on leaders’ occupational self‐efficacy?
Authors: Schyns Birgit , von Elverfeldt Anne , Felfe Jörg
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The focus of this paper is on the effects of transformational/charismatic leadership and feedback on the occupational self‐efficacy (OCCSEFF) of male and female managers. Given that transformational/charismatic leadership fits the female role better than other leadership styles, it seems likely that female leaders benefit from leading transformationally. However, the feedback they receive may not reflect their actual leadership behaviour and, thus, transformational leadership may not enhance female leaders’ self‐efficacy.

Design/methodology/approach

The results of three different studies are reported.

Findings

Results indicate that women prefer charismatic leadership and that charismatic leadership is rated more female than male. The feedback female and male leaders receive, however, does not differ. There is a moderating effect of gender on the relationship between individualized consideration and OCCSEFF but none on the relationship between feedback and OCCSEFF.

Research limitations/implications

Sample sizes are in part relatively small.

Practical implications

Female leaders seem not to gain from leading transformationally. More feedback in that direction may help to overcome this problem.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the discussion of female leadership. In contrast to other work, it highlights the consequences for women themselves.
A study of individual values and employment equity in Canada, France and Ireland
Authors: Saha Sudhir K. , O’Donnell David , Patel Taran , Heneghan John
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper, in the context of the employment equity (EE) field, is to explore the relationship between individual values/beliefs and simulated hiring decisions of minority candidates in Canada, France and Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

Individual values/beliefs were elicited using Likert type scales; subjects responded to a series of simulated hiring scenarios.

Findings

The link between individual value and belief systems and EE‐related HR decision making on recruitment of minority candidates is modestly supported by the findings presented here. The values/beliefs of students from leading business schools influenced, if in part, their simulated hiring decisions on minority candidates presented in the scenarios. National context also matters as EE institutions differ at the societal level of analysis.

Research limitations/implications

The subjects were business school students of limited work experience addressing scenario situations, not practicing managers making real hiring decisions. The use of self‐reports leads to the usual issues related to common method variance, the consistency motif, social desirability bias, and so on and we note the limits due to the reverse ecological fallacy. Research findings provide modest support to this argument but should be treated with caution.

Practical implications

Individual values and beliefs matter in HR decision making on recruitment of minority candidates.

Originality/value

Much EE research focuses on antecedents of values/beliefs; this paper is one of a handful of investigations that attempts to establish possible outcomes of values/beliefs towards EE.
“Doing well by doing good” garners broad appeal for Academy of Management Conference
Authors: Johnson C. Douglas
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on the 67th Annual Academy of Management Conference held 3‐8 August 2007, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.

Design/methodology/approach

Conference highlights are categorized into five themes: justice and equality, ethics and social responsibility, power and privilege, harassment and discrimination and diversity and inclusion. A sampling of papers and symposia deemed exemplars for each theme were included in the report.

Findings

The conference theme, “doing well by doing good”, generated theme‐related submissions which are of interest to theEOIreadership.

Originality/value

The report offers insights on various themes from authors from different theoretical perspectives and varied research methodologies.
New individual and organizational strategies for the reduction of discrimination
Authors: King Eden B. , Botsford Whitney E.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this report is to highlight an important set of papers that address strategies for reducing discrimination that were presented at the Society for Industrial and Organizational Psychology (SIOP)'s annual conference.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper summarizes four papers from the SIOP conference that dealt explicitly with methods that individuals and organizations can take to avoid or reduce prejudice and discrimination.

Findings

Each paper provided empirical evidence of the existence of discrimination, as well as unique strategies for its reduction.

Practical implications

This report underscores the need for individuals and organizations, as well as researchers and practitioners, to work toward breaking down systems of privilege that legitimize discrimination.

Originality/value

The 2007 SIOP conference overall, and this set of presentations in particular, contributed critical new evidence that should guide research and practice regarding the equitable management of diversity in organizations.
Does political marketing need the concept of customer value?
Authors: Brennan Ross , Henneberg Stephan C.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the feasibility and usefulness of adapting the concept of “customer value” from commercial marketing for use in the field of political marketing.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review of the field of customer value, and the application of a prominent “means‐end hierarchy” model of customer value to the political context.

Findings

From the application of the customer value approach to the political context, it is concluded that an analogous concept of “voter value” can be delineated and is the basis for a promising approach to the development of political marketing strategy.

Research limitations/implications

Several important testable hypotheses emerge from the article concerning the application of “voter value” as a segmentation tool in the field of political marketing.

Practical implications

“Voter value” emerges as a potentially useful tool in political marketing strategy, in particular with respect to shaping political communications messages, and segmenting voter populations.

Originality/value

It is widely acknowledged that “customer value” is an important concept in commercial marketing. This article addresses the important questions of whether and how the concept can be transferred to a different area of marketing.
Opportunities for green marketing: young consumers
Authors: Lee Kaman
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify important factors that affect Hong Kong adolescent consumers' green purchasing behaviour.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 6,010 (2,975 males and 3,035 females) adolescents in Hong Kong were recruited through multi‐staged random sampling. They were surveyed on their green purchasing behaviour, environmental attitude, environmental concern, perceived seriousness of environmental problems, perceived environmental responsibility, perceived effectiveness of environmental behaviour, social influence and concern for self‐image in environmental protection.

Findings

Multiple regression analysis showed that social influence was the top predictor of Hong Kong adolescents' green purchasing behaviour, followed by environmental concern as the second, concern for self‐image in environmental protection as the third, and perceived environmental responsibility as the fourth top predictor.

Research limitations/implications

A major limitation of this study lies in the self‐reported nature of the survey used. Future study should include some objective assessments (such as observations or other‐reported survey) of the subjects' green purchasing behaviour.

Practical implications

This paper is a useful source of information for international green marketers about what works and what does not in appealing to the young consumers in Hong Kong.

Originality/value

This paper serves as a pioneer study to identify important factors in affecting young consumers' green purchasing behaviour in the Hong Kong context. It offers practical guidelines to international green marketers planning to target the Asian markets.
Modelling the consequences of e‐service quality
Authors: Sahadev Sunil , Purani Keyoor
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to model the consequences of achieving better service quality in e‐services.

Design/methodology/approach

The conceptual model is developed though a survey of literature on e‐services and allied domains and validated through a survey of users of job‐portals in India.

Findings

The conceptual model finds significant support based on the empirical study. It is seen that the four components of e‐service quality: efficiency, fulfilment, system availability, privacy, are linked to trust and satisfaction.

Practical implications

The study underscores the need to focus on service quality in the context of e‐services. The positive linkages should motivate practitioners to invest more to achieve greater service quality.

Originality/value

By focusing on the consequences of e‐service quality, the study contributes to the growing stream of e‐service quality literature. This is also one of the few studies to look at other categories of e‐services apart from e‐tailing.
Corporate marketing management and corporate‐identity building
Authors: Tsai Shu‐pel
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Corporate identity has become one of the major topics in the field of corporate marketing studies, but the relationship between corporate marketing management and corporate‐identity building seems still stuck at the stage of operational rather than strategic considerations. Corporate identity is understood largely in terms of instrumentality for enhancing competitive advantage, and corporate marketing is mostly discussed as only an execution part in representing corporate identity to the stakeholders. To address this issue, the purpose of this paper is to propose a model which explicates the strategic roles the corporate marketing manager plays in building effective corporate identity.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper explores strategic management of the corporate‐identity construction process and marketing communication management of corporate‐identity representation from the perspectives of sociology, organisational psychology and corporate marketing communication, primarily based on the narrative paradigm. Detailed theoretical exploration, coupled with several conceptual propositions as well as analyses of exemplary cases, provides academic and practical implications for corporate marketing researchers and managers.

Findings

The proposed model conceptualises that the corporate marketing manager assumes three strategic roles for building effective corporate identity: narrative coordinator to manage the narrative construction process, narrative‐network weaver to manage the narrative network, and narrative co‐author to manage the external communication programmes. These roles define the strategic relationship between corporate marketing management and corporate‐identity building.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to furthering the understanding of how to use the narrative paradigm for effective corporate‐identity building, which may help enhancement of business performance.
E‐commerce standard user interface: an E‐menu system
Authors: Tucker Shin‐Ping
Published: October 2008

Purpose

A rapidly growing segment of the internet is e‐commerce. The future of economic competitiveness for most enterprises relies on entrance and active participation in the e‐commerce market. About a third of the time users fail when they try to purchase products on an e‐commerce site. An essential problem with e‐commerce is that the controls and organization are different for each site. There is no standard way of building the navigation of the e‐commerce site. Most sites do not have a global navigation system and the local one may be confusing, like solving a maze. The goal of this study is to minimize users' look up time and make e‐commerce sites usable so visitors can easily and quickly access information. The objective of this study is to provide an implementation method by which an agent of the artificial intelligence (AI) user interface creates a standard navigation menu, called E‐menu, to increase the usability of e‐commerce.

Design/methodology/approach

The selected E‐menu items are based on a study of the graphical user interface (GUI) used in Windows environment and an evaluation of one hundred and two (102) e‐commerce sites. The prototype of the E‐menu system proves that a standard menu can be created by an intermediate intelligent agent, acting on behalf of the system user. Three sites out of 102 were chosen to be edited by the E‐menu server for the pilot study. This study also applies the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) identifying components of usefulness and ease of use that predict user attitude toward the usage of the E‐menu system by conducting a Web‐based survey.

Findings

The survey result is promising and indicates that the e‐commerce users accept the idea of the E‐menu system. The E‐menu system makes it possible to create a standard navigation menu globally for e‐commerce sites. Although E‐menu is not ready for prime time, the prototype proves that a standard menu can be created by an intermediate intelligent agent, acting on behalf of the system user. These types of agents will become more popular in the internet paradigm as the number of e‐commerce sites increase and the usability of the sites decrease due to rapid deployment strategies and technological deficiencies.

Originality/value

The paper provides information on a method to increase the usability of e‐commerce sites.
Does TQM impact on role stressors? A conceptual model
Authors: Teh Pei‐Lee , Ooi Keng‐Boon , Yong Chen‐Chen
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a conceptual model to examine the multidimensionality of total quality management (TQM) practices and its impact on role stressors.

Design/methodology/approach

The background of TQM philosophy and theory of role stressors serve as starting‐points to develop the conceptual model. From the extensive literature review, six practices of TQM and two components of role stressors were identified to construct the model.

Findings

The model based on TQM with respect to role stressors provides a basis for assessing the level of role conflict and role ambiguity under which the use of different aspects of TQM should be retained or revised. This finding suggests that TQM is not a panacea that can be unthinkingly applied, but must be practised with a clear sense of the impact on role stressors.

Practical implications

Given that role stressors are often detrimental to organizational functional efficiency, it is appropriate for management to invest time and effort to diagnose effects of implementation of TQM practices on role stressors. For this analysis, this model will prove valuable.

Originality/value

This conceptual model provides an insightful foundation for the analysis of multidimensionality of TQM practices on role stressors. The model examines the independent influences of TQM practices on role stressors and treats role conflict and role ambiguity as dependent variables. This design stands in contrast to other researchers' study of conflict and ambiguity as independent variables.
Expectation and reality in ERP implementation: consultant and solution provider perspective
Authors: Helo Petri , Anussornnitisarn Pornthep , Phusavat Kongkiti
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper aims to analyse expectation and reality in enterprise resource planning implementation from the consultants' and software vendors' point of view and process these further as requirements of future IT systems.

Design/methodology/approach

A small‐scale survey among Finnish enterprise resource planning system (ERP) software vendors and consultants on ERP implementation challenges is analysed (n=59). The results are connected to existing literature in the field of deploying ERP systems in the form of discussion.

Findings

The consultants' opinions show similar results with studies conducted with companies using ERP systems. The implementer's point of view shows clearly the challenge of using standardized ERP packages for various requirements on different levels. Although the sales presentations tend to emphasize the general purpose and flexibility of software packages, the dilemma between customization and vanilla system remains. The implementer's viewpoint emphasises challenges in operations: production planning, materials management, sales and marketing.

Research limitations/implications

The complexities of large ERP systems represent a true challenge from the knowledge transfer point of view. Standardized ERP packages implement standardized approaches, which has been a key benefit. The results show that the challenges are related to production planning and materials management.

Practical implications

Software vendors and consultants have a thorough knowledge of ERP implementation, but still the key challenges remain much the same. ERP project deployment requires careful planning with regard to the change management aspects, but also IT related technical aspects. The paper presents a checklist for matching the ERP system with the specific requirements of the company.

Originality/value

The results of the survey triangulate and justify many aspects found in previous research. From the consultants' point of view developments in production planning and complex products are especially needed. Initial solutions and further research are outlined.
Financial early‐warning models on cross‐holding groups
Authors: Lieu Pang‐Tien , Lin Ching‐Wen , Yu Hui‐Fun
Published: October 2008

Purpose

This paper primarily uses statistical methods to establish financial early‐warning models that make it possible to predict, in advance, the probability of a company experiencing financial distress.

Design/methodology/approach

In its empirical analysis, this is the first study that attempts to use financial ratios and non‐financial ratios as variables to analyze business groups, and the present study uses the (K‐S tests), and (M‐U tests) and logit regressions model.

Findings

Financial ratio variables remain the primary variables for predicting corporate financial distress. Upon examining the predictor variables for corporate financial distress at one, two, and three years prior to distress, it was found that financial ratio variables were the main ones at one and two years prior to distress, while at three years prior to distress there was one financial ratio variable and two ownership structure variables that showed significant differences. Financial structure, solvency, profitability, and cash flow indicators are the principal financial ratio variables. Ratios of director and supervisor ownership stakes after pledging of shares differed significantly between financially distressed and non‐distressed companies. Establishing independent directors and supervisors can lower the likelihood of financial distress.

Research limitations/implications

As the time remaining before occurrence of financial distress grows shorter, test results show that the number of financial ratios with significant differences goes up. But the longer the time that remains before occurrence of financial distress, the more the financial ratios show non‐significant differences. That is why a number of scholars hold that the longer the period under study, the less explanatory power it has.

Originality/value

The mean contribution of this paper is that establishing independent directors and supervisors can lower the likelihood of financial distress. The paper is useful to researchers or practitioners who are focused on financial risk management and corporate governance implementation.
Double pressing for porcelain stoneware tiles: an exploratory analysis
Authors: Gamberini Rita , Regattieri Alberto
Published: October 2008

Purpose

Double pressing systems have recently been introduced to speed up and improve the pressing step of porcelain stoneware tiles. This paper aims to analyze double pressing systems using discontinuous pre‐compaction, both technically and economically. Two operative conditions are considered: the traditional forming of tiles during pressing is compared with the innovative production of a unique large‐sized slab, subsequently customized according to market requirements. Furthermore, manufacturing conditions are explored with infrequent or frequent production runs, due to increasingly smaller production batches, in order to evaluate which production process is more suitable when changing operative conditions are managed.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis is carried out experimentally, by collecting data in existing pilot plants, producing batches of products of different size and colour. Details are provided concerning the technical characteristics of the systems, along with costs per manufactured square metre for investments, personnel, maintenance, spare parts and electric power. A case in which some production days are reserved for each manufactured batch is compared to a case in which production runs are repeated more frequently in a day.

Findings

Manufacturing large‐sized slabs and customization has shown to be an efficient solution for companies operating in changing markets.

Research limitations/implications

Further research should study double pressing systems using continuous pre‐compaction.

Originality/value

The proposed analysis, by presenting an evaluation process and sharing data collected experimentally, provides innovative support for addressing decision makers when new pressing systems for porcelain stoneware tiles are selected.
Collaborative supply chain network using embedded genetic algorithms
Authors: Lam C.Y. , Chan S.L. , Ip W.H. , Lau C.W.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to propose a genetic algorithms approach to develop a collaborative supply chain network, i.e. a supply chain network with genetic algorithms embedded (GA‐SCN), so as to increase the efficiency and effectiveness of a supply chain network.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodologies of the GA‐SCN are illustrated through a case study of a supply chain network of a Hong Kong lamp manufacturing company involving 10 entities, whose roles range from suppliers, purchasers, designers and manufacturers, to sales and distributors. A GA‐SCN is developed according to the information provided by the company, the performance results in the case study are discussed, and the concepts of network analysis are then introduced to analyze the equivalence structure of the developed GA‐SCN.

Findings

The genetic algorithms approach is a suitable approach for developing an efficient and effective supply chain network in terms of shortening the processing time and reducing operating time in the network: the processing time and operating cost are reduced by around 45 percent and 35 percent per order, respectively, in the case study.

Originality/value

This paper is the first known study to apply genetic algorithms for the development of a collaborative supply chain network to increase the competitiveness of a supply chain.
Total agile design system in contemporary organisational scenario
Authors: Vinodh S. , Sundararaj G. , Devadasan S.R.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to emphasize the adoption of computer aided design (CAD) technology for enabling the contemporary organizations to acquire agile characteristics.

Design/methodology/approach

A model called total agile design system (TADS) was designed. Subsequently, a survey was conducted among 25 industry captains. By referring to their reactions, a roadmap for successfully implementing TADS has been evolved.

Findings

The results of literature survey indicated that both research and practicing communities are yet to exploit CAD and computer aided manufacturing (CAM) technologies effectively for acquiring agile characteristics in organizations. The survey conducted among the industry captains indicated that the TADS model would bridge CAD/CAM and AM concepts in organizations.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this research were based on the survey conducted among industry captains of organizations situated only in Coimbatore city of India. Yet these findings would be applicable to the organizations situated in majority of the other parts of the world as the environment prevailing in these organizations is mimicking the scenario of all contemporary organizations.

Practical implications

This research culminated in the development of a roadmap. This roadmap considers the practicality of implementing TADS in contemporary organizations. The contemporary organizations, which apply TADS using this roadmap, would imbibe world class manufacturing dimensions.

Originality/value

The literature on AM has so far seen no survey examining the application propensity of automation technologies like CAD/CAM. This paper has overcome this research lacuna.
Computational study on a damage‐coupled model for crystalline polyethylene
Authors: Alvarado‐Contreras J.A. , Polak M.A. , Penlidis A.
Published: October 2008

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to formulate an algorithm for a novel damage‐coupled material law for crystalline polyethylene at finite inelastic strains followed by investigation of the influence of the aggregate representation and material parameters on the material response.

Design/methodology/approach

The constitutive equations are developed within the framework of continuum damage mechanics to describe crystal fragmentation caused by atomic debonding of the crystallographic planes. The material is assumed initially isotropic and homogeneous and is represented as an aggregate of randomly oriented crystals with an orthorhombic lattice. For the velocity gradient, an additive decomposition into symmetric and skew‐symmetric components is applied, where the skew‐symmetric part (spin) is decoupled from the lattice shear by means of a damage variable. Structural features such as lattice parameters and orientations, slip systems, and kinematic constraints are incorpo‐rated.

Findings

The proposed model is implemented to predict stress‐strain behaviour under uniaxial tension and damage accumulation and texture development at the different stages of deformation. In the numerical examples, the effects of the aggregate size, crystal orientations, and material parameters on the model estimates are analyzed.

Originality/value

The model used herein is a first attempt to analyze the influence of crystal fragmentation caused by the debonding of the crystallographic planes on the predicted mechanical behaviour and texture development of polyethylene prior to failure.