bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimaxity of the Stein risk-minimization estimator for a normal mean matrix
Authors: Kubokawa Tatsuya , Tsukuma Hisayuki
Published: July 2009

This paper addresses the Stein conjecture in the simultaneous estimation of a matrix mean of a multivariate normal distribution with a known covariance matrix. Stein (1973) derived an unbiased estimator of a risk function for orthogonally equivariant estimators and considered to isotonize the estimator which minimizes the main part of the unbiased risk-estimator. We call it the Stein risk-minimization estimator (RM) in this paper. Although the Stein RM estimator has been recognized as an excellent procedure with a nice risk-performance, it has a complicated form based on the isotonizing algorithm, and no analytical properties such as minimaxity have been shown. The aim of this paper is to fix this conjecture in lower dimensional cases, that is, the minimaxity of the Stein RM estimator is established for the two and three dimensions.
The Use of the Talmudic Format for the Presentation of Qualitative Research
Authors: Rodgers Diane M.
Published: July 2009

In this article, I propose to adapt the Talmud, a Jewish religious text, for the written representation of qualitative research. The form and the style of argumentation in and engendered by the Talmud can be adapted to present qualitative methods in a way that transcends the limitations of conventional formats. In addition, this format requires even greater participation in the act of reading. Because the Talmudic format uniquely addresses the difficulties involved in representing everyday life, I argue that adapting the format of the Talmud is ideal for giving voice, for presenting multiple and competing narratives alongside documents, and for further problematizing any simple notion of truth and authority.
Inhibitory Effect of Tall Hedge Mustard (Sisymbrium loeselii) Allelochemicals on Rangeland Plants and Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi
Authors: Bainard L. D. , Brown P. D. , Upadhyaya M. K.
Published: July 2009

Exotic weeds can interfere with neighboring species by releasing allelochemicals that either directly inhibit growth and distribution of associated species or affect them indirectly by disrupting their interaction with soil organisms, such as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The allelopathic potential of tall hedge mustard was assessed using aqueous root and shoot extracts in seed germination and radicle growth bioassays. Aqueous tall hedge mustard root and shoot extracts strongly inhibited seed germination and growth of bluebunch wheatgrass, Idaho fescue, and spotted knapweed, but had minimal autotoxicity. Chemical analysis of tall hedge mustard tissues revealed the presence of two major glucosinolates—isopropyl andsec-butyl glucosinolate. The degradation products of these glucosinolates (isopropyl isothiocyanate andsec-butyl isothiocyanate) were identified in dichloromethane extracts of tall hedge mustard aqueous root and shoot extracts. Commercially available isopropyl isothiocyanate andsec-butyl isothiocyanate inhibited seed germination and radicle growth, suggesting their role in the allelopathic potential of tall hedge mustard. Tall hedge mustard aqueous extracts and isothiocyanates incorporated into an agar medium inhibited the spore germination of the AMF,Glomus intraradices. Tall hedge mustard infestations were also found to reduce the AMF inoculum potential of soil under field conditions. The results from this study show that tall hedge mustard produces chemicals that can inhibit the growth of neighboring plant species and their AMF associates.
Pollen Grain Size, Density, and Settling Velocity for Palmer Amaranth (Amaranthus palmeri)
Authors: Sosnoskie L. M. , Webster T. M. , Dales D. , Rains G. C. , Grey T. L. , Culpepper A. S.
Published: July 2009

Palmer amaranth is resistant to several herbicides, including glyphosate, and there is concern that the resistance traits can be transferred between spatially segregated populations via pollen movement. The objective of this study was to describe the physical properties of Palmer amaranth pollen, specifically size, density, and settling velocity (Vs), that influence pollen flight. The mean diameter for Palmer amaranth pollen, as determined by light microscopy, was 31 µm (range of 21 to 38 µm); mean pollen diameter as measured with the use of an electronic particle sizer was 27 µm (range of 21 to 35 µm). The mean density of the solid portion of the pollen grain was 1,435 kg m−3. Accounting for the density of the aqueous fraction, the mean density of a fully hydrated pollen grain was 1,218 kg m−3. By Stokes's law, the estimated mean theoreticalVsfor individual Palmer amaranth pollen grains was 3.4 cm s−1for the range of pollen diameters with a mean of 31 µm and 2.6 cm s−1for the range of pollen diameters with a mean of 27 µm. Results from laboratory studies indicated the majority of single pollen grains settled at a rate of 5.0 cm s−1. The difference between the theoretical and empirical estimates ofVswas likely due to changes in pollen density and shape postanthesis, which are not accounted for using Stokes's law, as well as the presence pollen clusters.
Germination Ecology of Spiny (Amaranthus spinosus) and Slender Amaranth (A. viridis): Troublesome Weeds of Direct-Seeded Rice
Authors: Chauhan Bhagirath S. , Johnson David E.
Published: July 2009

Spiny and slender amaranth are troublesome Amaranthaceae species of direct-seeded rice and other upland crops in many Asian countries. Seed germination and seedling emergence response of these species to various environmental factors was determined in laboratory and screenhouse experiments. Germination in both species was stimulated by 35/25 and 30/20 C fluctuating temperatures and light. Germination of slender amaranth was more sensitive to increasing salt and water stress than spiny amaranth. Spiny amaranth germinated at a NaCl concentration of 100 mM (19%), whereas slender amaranth seeds did not germinate at this concentration. In seed burial trials where the seeds were on the soil surface, emergence was 56 and 68% for spiny amaranth and slender amaranth, respectively. Only 7% of spiny amaranth seedling emerged from a soil depth of 0.5 cm, whereas no emergence was observed for 4 cm or deeper. For slender amaranth, 6 and 0% emergence was observed at 4 and 6 cm, respectively. Seedling emergence of spiny amaranth was affected more by high rates of rice residue than slender amaranth. Greater quantities of residue than those normally found in rice fields were required to significantly reduce weed densities.
A Decade of Glyphosate-ResistantLoliumaround the World: Mechanisms, Genes, Fitness, and Agronomic Management
Authors: Preston Christopher , Wakelin Angela M. , Dolman Fleur C. , Bostamam Yazid , Boutsalis Peter
Published: July 2009

Glyphosate resistance was first discovered in populations of rigid ryegrass in Australia in 1996. Since then, glyphosate resistance has been detected in additional populations of rigid ryegrass and Italian ryegrass in several other countries. Glyphosate-resistant rigid ryegrass and Italian ryegrass have been selected in situations where there is an overreliance on glyphosate to the exclusion of other weed control tactics. Two major mechanisms of glyphosate resistance have been discovered in these two species: a change in the pattern of glyphosate translocation such that glyphosate accumulates in the leaf tips of resistant plants instead of in the shoot meristem; and amino acid substitutions at Pro 106 within the target site, 5-enolpyruvylshikimate-3-phosphate synthase (EPSPS). There are also populations with both mechanisms. In the case of glyphosate resistance, the target site mutations tend to provide a lower level of resistance than does the altered translocation mechanism. Each of these resistance mechanisms is inherited as a single gene trait that is largely dominant. As these ryegrass species are obligate outcrossers, this ensures resistance alleles can move in both pollen and seed. Some glyphosate-resistant rigid ryegrass populations appear to have a significant fitness penalty associated with the resistance allele. Field surveys show that strategies vary in their ability to reduce the frequency of glyphosate resistance in populations and weed population size, with integrated strategies—including alternative weed management and controlling seed set of surviving plants—the most effective.
Enhanced Atrazine Degradation: Evidence for Reduced Residual Weed Control and a Method for Identifying Adapted Soils and Predicting Herbicide Persistence
Authors: Krutz L. Jason , Burke Ian C. , Reddy Krishna N. , Zablotowicz Robert M. , Price Andrew J.
Published: July 2009

Soilborne bacteria with novel metabolic abilities have been linked with enhanced atrazine degradation and complaints of reduced residual weed control in soils with ans-triazine use history. However, no field study has verified that enhanced degradation reduces atrazine's residual weed control. The objectives of this study were to (1) compare atrazine persistence and prickly sida density ins-triazine-adapted and nonadapted field sites at two planting dates; (2) utilize original and published data to construct a diagnostic test for identifyings-triazine-adapted soils; and (3) develop and validate ans-triazine persistence model based on data generated from the diagnostic test, i.e., mineralization of ring-labeled14C-s-triazine. Atrazine half-life values ins-triazine-adapted soil were at least 1.4-fold lower than nonadapted soil and 5-fold lower than historic estimates (60 d). At both planting dates atrazine reduced prickly sida density in the nonadapted soils (P ≤ 0.0091). Conversely, in thes-triazine-adapted soil, prickly sida density was not different between no atrazine PRE and atrazine PRE at the March 15 planting date (P = 0.1397). A lack of significance in this contrast signifies that enhanced degradation can reduce atrazine's residual control of sensitive weed species. Analyses of published data indicate that cumulative mineralization in excess of 50% of C0after 30 d of incubation is diagnostic for enhanceds-triazine degradation. Ans-triazine persistence model was developed and validated; model predictions for atrazine persistence under field conditions were within the 95% confidence intervals of observed values. Results indicate that enhanced atrazine degradation can decrease the herbicide's persistence and residual activity; however, coupling the diagnostic test with the persistence model could enable weed scientists to identifys-triazine-adapted soils, predict herbicide persistence under field conditions, and implement alternative weed control strategies in affected areas if warranted.
Weed Science Research and Funding: A Call to Action
Authors: Davis Adam S. , Hall J. Christopher , Jasieniuk Marie , Locke Martin A. , Luschei Edward C. , Mortensen David A. , Riechers Dean E. , Smith Richard G. , Sterling Tracy M. , Westwood James H.
Published: July 2009

Weed science has contributed much to agriculture, forestry and natural resource management during its history. However, if it is to remain relevant as a scientific discipline, it is long past time for weed scientists to move beyond a dominating focus on herbicide efficacy testing and address the basic science underlying complex issues in vegetation management at many levels of biological organization currently being solved by others, such as invasion ecologists and molecular biologists. Weed science must not be circumscribed by a narrowly-defined set of tools but rather be seen as an integrating discipline. As a means of assessing current and future research interests and funding trends among weed scientists, the Weed Science Society of America conducted an online survey of its members in summer of 2007. There were 304 respondents out of a membership of 1330 at the time of the survey, a response rate of 23%. The largest group of respondents (41%) reported working on research problems primarily focused on herbicide efficacy and maintenance, funded mainly by private industry sources. Another smaller group of respondents (22%) reported focusing on research topics with a complex systems focus (such as invasion biology, ecosystem restoration, ecological weed management, and the genetics, molecular biology, and physiology of weedy traits), funded primarily by public sources. Increased cooperation between these complementary groups of scientists will be an essential step in making weed science increasingly relevant to the complex vegetation management issues of the 21st century.
A case of spontaneous tool-making by a captive capuchin monkey
Authors: Bortolini Tiago Soares , Bicca-Marques Júlio César
Published: July 2009

No abstract
Power lines and howler monkey conservation in Porto Alegre, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: Lokschin Luisa Xavier , Printes Rodrigo Cambará , Cabral Juliane Nunes Hallal , Buss Gerson
Published: July 2009

No abstract
Macronutrient patterns of 19 species of Panamanian fruits from Barro Colorado Island
Authors: Milton Katharine
Published: July 2009

To attract seed dispersal agents, most Neotropical tree species produce edible fruits. Animals eat the fruits, often swallowing the seeds, which may be deposited away from the parent tree. Data show that not all frugivores in a given habitat are equally attracted to the same fruit species. Though numerous factors can influence fruit choice, the nutrient value of the pulp to the disperser is clearly of key importance. Here data are presented on the macronutrient content (total crude protein, fat and nonstructural carbohydrate) of 19 fruit species collected from a single forest site, Barro Colorado Island in central Panama. The only criterion for analyses was that each species produce fruits consumed by at least two primate species at this site. Though all fruit species contained a measurable amount of each macronutrient class, there were often striking differences in the amount contributed per class. Overall, two species (10.5% of the total sample) were highest in protein, five (26%) were highest in fats and twelve (63%) were highest in nonstructural carbohydrates. Fruit species in the same family or genus did not necessarily show the same macronutrient pattern. Similar data from a range of Neotropical sites could prove useful in formulating hypotheses related to community fruit-disperser relationships.
Ecología de Ateles chamek Humboldt en un bosque húmedo montano de los Yungas Bolivianos
Authors: Quevedo Amira Elvia Apaza , Pacheco Luis Fernando , Roldán Alejandra Irene , Ariñez Maria Sol Aguilar
Published: July 2009

Desde enero de 2000 a marzo de 2001 evaluamos aspectos de la variación temporal del comportamiento, dieta y tamaño de grupo de una población de Ateles chamek en un bosque húmedo montano de los Yungas Bolivianos (Estación Biológica de Tunquini - EBT), así como la disponibilidad de frutos consumidos por este primate (desde abril de 2000). Encontramos correlaciones negativas entre las combinaciones del porcentaje de tiempo dedicado a actividades de descanso y desplazamiento y entre alimentación y desplazamiento, pero ninguna correlación entre las combinaciones de los porcentajes de tiempo dedicado a otras actividades. La dieta de este primate fue altamente frugívora con un bajo consumo de hojas y otras partes vegetales. Las especies más consumidas fueron Protium montanum, Casearia mariquitensis, Podocarpus sp., Anomospermum sp., especies del género Ficus, una especie indeterminada (nombre vernacular “canelón”) y especies de la familia Lauraceae. La mediana mensual del número de individuos por grupo no presentó un pico evidente pero sí una tendencia a una relación positiva con la disponibilidad de frutos distintos al género Ficus (agrupados como no-Ficus). En cuanto a la disponibilidad de frutos, se observó un incremento en la oferta de frutos no-Ficus hacia el inicio de la época húmeda, mientras que la oferta de Ficus se dió en todos los meses aunque de manera irregular. Finalmente, encontramos una relación negativa entre la disponibilidad de frutos no-Ficus y el tiempo invertido en el desplazamiento.
Altitudinal range extension for Cebus albifrons (Primates: Cebidae) in southern Ecuador
Authors: Harris J. Berton C. , Álvarez Pedro J. , Mendoza Vicente , Tirira Diego G.
Published: July 2009

No abstract
QT Interval Prolongation and Atypical Proarrhythmia: Monomorphic Ventricular Tachycardia with Trimebutine
Authors: Schiariti Michele , Saladini Angela , Placanica Attilio , Saolini Marta , E. Puddu Paolo
Published: July 2009

A 59-year old woman was admitted at emergency for palpitation and dizziness. Medication history showed
trimebutine 450 mg daily, because of meteorism, increased to 450 mg TID a week earlier. At admittance, sustained
monomorphic ventricular tachycardia was interrupted by 100 mg intravenous lidocaine and a largely prolonged QTc (523
± 12 ms) was seen. Discontinuation of trimebutine achieved normalisation of QTc (420 ± 10 ms, p<0.001).

This is the first report in man to illustrate a probable proarrhythmic action of trimebutine. A weak inhibitory effect on both
rapid and slow components of the delayed rectifier in guinea-pig ventricular myocytes calls for further investigations in
human myocardial tissues. Trimebutine inhibition of Na and Ca++ channels in cardiac tissues of rabbits and guinea-pigs
also call for further studies in human myocardial tissues.
The Use of Carotid Artery Ultrasonography in Different Clinical Conditions
Authors: Gasparyan Armen Yuri
Published: July 2009

B-mode ultrasonography of the carotid artery is a non-invasive, informative and reproducible technique used for the assessment of prevalence and course of atherosclerosis in a variety of clinical conditions. Visualization of intima-media complex, atherosclerotic plaques, rough arterial wall and calcifications of the carotid artery may be useful for the assessment of atherosclerotic burden. The latter was confirmed in a recent consensus statement of the American Society of Echocardiography. Detection of structural changes, such as Menkeber’s sclerosis of the medial layer of the carotid artery, carotid aneurysm may indicate advanced vascular pathology and prompt an appropriate treatment. Ultrasound images of patients with atherosclerotic plaque and Menkeberg’s sclerosis are presented and issues related to clinical significance of the common carotid artery intima-media thickness are discussed.
Genome-Wide Analysis of Copy Number Variations in Normal Population Identified by SNP Arrays
Authors: Wang Jian , Man Tsz-Kwong , Kwok Wong Kwong , H. Rao Pulivarthi , Eastwood Leung Hon-Chiu , Guerra Rudy , C. Lau Ching
Published: July 2009

Gene copy number change is an essential characteristic of many types of cancer. However, it is important to
distinguish copy number variation (CNV) in the human genome of normal individuals from bona fide abnormal copy
number changes of genes specific to cancers. Based on Affymetrix 50K single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array data,
we identified genome-wide copy number variations among 104 normal subjects from three ethnic groups that were used in
the HapMap project. Our analysis revealed 155 CNV regions, of which 37% were gains and 63% were losses. About 21%
(30) of the CNV regions are concordant with earlier reports. These 155 CNV regions are located on more than 100 cytobands
across all 23 chromosomes. The CNVs range from 68bp to 18 Mb in length, with a median length of 86 Kb. Eight
CNV regions were selected for validation by quantitative PCR. Analysis of genomic sequences within and adjacent to
CNVs suggests that repetitive sequences such as long interspersed nuclear elements (LINEs) and long terminal repeats
(LTRs) may play a role in the origin of CNVs by facilitating non-allelic homologous recombination. Thirty-two percent of
the CNVs identified in this study are associated with segmental duplications. CNVs were not preferentially enriched in
gene-encoding regions. Among the 364 genes that are completely encompassed by these 155 CNVs, genes related to
olfactory sensory, chemical stimulus, and other physiological responses are significantly enriched. A statistical analysis of
CNVs by ethnic group revealed distinct patterns regarding the CNV location and gain-to-loss ratio. The CNVs reported
here will help build a more comprehensive map of genomic variations in the human genome and facilitate the differentiation
between copy number variation and somatic changes in cancers. The potential roles of certain repeat elements in
CNV formation, as corroborated by other studies, shed light on the origin of CNVs and will improve our understanding of
the mechanisms of genomic rearrangements in the human genome.
Analyst Information Processing, Financial Regulation, and Academic Research
Authors: Bradshaw Mark T.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: Changes in regulations governing capital markets always provide a rich setting for archival researchers to examine how such changes affect the behavior of market participants. Barniv et al. (2009; hereafter, BHMT) and Chen and Chen (2009; hereafter CC) examine the impacts of recently enacted regulations aimed at curbing perceived abused by sell-side analysts. There were no less than six significant regulations issued between 2000 and 2003 that affected the activities of analysts. BHMT and CC emphasize different regulations, but both predict that analysts' recommendation will be less biased as a result of the collective regulatory changes. The evidence in both studies is strong and convincing that the association between analysts' earnings forecasts and stock recommendations has changed, consistent with analysts' personal conflicts of interest having less impact on their analyses. However, the attribution of what regulation, if any, effected this change is less clear. Collectively, the similarities and differences in the studies provide a nice setting to understand how different authors approach the same research question.
Promotions, Turnover, and Performance Evaluation: Evidence from the Careers of Division Managers
Authors: Cichello Michael S. , Fee C. Edward , Hadlock Charles J. , Sonti Ramana
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: We study turnover and promotions of division managers in multidivisional firms. Turnover is negatively related to divisional accounting performance, positively related to industry performance, but not significantly related to firm performance or the performance of other divisions. Consistent with tournament theory, promotions are significantly related to whether one division is performing better than others, but are not significantly related to the magnitude of any performance difference. A simple performance metric, divisional ROA, appears more closely related to job allocation decisions than several alternatives. Our evidence is consistent with the hypothesis that accounting information is used by firms when evaluating managerial personnel.
Knowledge Sharing and Incentive Design in Production Environments: Theory and Evidence
Authors: Hwang Yuhchang , Erkens David H. , Evans John H.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: We develop and empirically test a parsimonious model of how specific knowledge and the value of knowledge sharing influence manufacturing plants' incentive design choices. Our results confirm the prediction that increases in the extent of agents' specific knowledge and the value of knowledge sharing are associated with greater (less) reliance on output (input) performance measures. Moreover, consistent with our model's prediction, we find that plants rely more on group-based (as opposed to individual-based) output performance measures when the value of knowledge sharing is higher, or the extent of agents' specific knowledge is lower. Finally, consistent with previous research, we find that as output performance measures become noisier, firms rely less on these measures in incentive contracts.
Market Reaction Surrounding the Filing of Periodic SEC Reports
Authors: Li Edward Xuejun , Ramesh K.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: Using data from the EDGAR era, we find a significant market reaction surrounding quarterly periodic reports only when their filing coincides with the first public disclosure of earnings, although that for 10-K reports is not subsumed by earnings releases. However, after eliminating incidence of concurrent earnings releases, the 10-K market reaction is restricted to a quarter of the reports that are filed around calendar quarter-ends. The calendar quarter-end price and volume effects are unrelated to the filing of periodic reports and are not explained by self-selection. However, while the quarter-end volume reaction is indistinguishable between filers and non-filers, we find an incremental price reaction to 10-K filings at calendar quarter-ends in recent times. We provide evidence that the calendar-time effect is partially due to an intraindustry information transfer that is a function of the incidence of 10-K reports at quarter-ends. Finally, equity analyst reactions are muted around periodic filings, with no evidence that they contribute to quarter-end information transfer.
Internal Audit Quality and Earnings Management
Authors: Prawitt Douglas F. , Smith Jason L. , Wood David A.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: Internal auditors perform work that is relevant to their host entities' financial reporting processes; yet, little research attention has focused on the effects of internal auditing on companies' external financial reporting. Using a unique and previously unavailable data set, we investigate the relation between internal audit function (IAF) quality and earnings management. We measure IAF quality using a composite measure comprising six individual components of IAF quality based on SAS No. 65, which guides external auditors in assessing the quality of an IAF with respect to its role in financial reporting. Earnings management is measured using two separate proxies: (1) abnormal accruals and (2) the propensity to meet or barely beat analysts' earnings forecasts. We find evidence that IAF quality is associated with a moderation in the level of earnings management as measured by both proxies.
The Voluntary Adoption of Internationally Recognized Accounting Standards and Firm Internal Performance Evaluation
Authors: Wu Joanna Shuang , Zhang Ivy Xiying
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: A large body of research is devoted to understanding the causes and consequences of firms' adoption of internationally recognized accounting standards. Thus far, researchers' attention has focused almost exclusively on the informational benefits of the adoption. We extend the existing literature by offering a different, stewardship perspective. We hypothesize that the voluntary adoption of international accounting standards is associated with changes in the firm's internal performance evaluation process; in particular, it is associated with increases in the sensitivities of CEO turnover and employee layoffs to accounting earnings. Our results are consistent with these predictions.
The Effect of Task Interdependence and Type of Incentive Contract on Group Performance
Authors: Guymon Ronald N. , Balakrishnan Ramji , Tubbs Richard M.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: We extend Fisher et al. (2003) to investigate the effectiveness of a budget-based incentive contract to settings with alternate task characteristics.We first replicate their finding: when groups perform a task with an additive production function, a budget-based contract leads to higher levels of performance than a piece-rate contract. However, we do not find higher performance when we modify the task to be interdependent, arguably a key feature of group tasks. We also show that goal commitment mediates the incentive contract-performance relation for tasks with an additive production function. Collectively, these results suggest that variations in production technology influence the relative motivational effectiveness of different incentive plans.
Managerial Influencing of Boards of Directors
Authors: Drymiotes George
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: In this paper, I examine issues relating to managers' ability to influence their performance evaluation. In contrast to conventional wisdom, I show that such influencing is not necessarily deleterious to shareholder welfare, despite the fact that it is aimed at maximizing the managers' compensation. In particular, I show that the managers' influencing actions can, under some conditions, improve the performance evaluation process. This mitigates the control problem between the boards of directors and managers, and lowers managerial compensation costs. I also show that managers' influencing actions can alleviate the need for costly board equity awards to align board interests with those of the shareholders. This suggests that boards with smaller equity stakes may not necessarily have weaker incentives to monitor managers.
Toward an Understanding of the Sophistication of Product Costing Systems
Authors: Brierley John A.
Published: July 2009

ABSTRACT: Prior research into the sophistication of product costing systems has defined sophistication in terms of the methods used to include indirect overhead costs in product costs. Based on data collected from a questionnaire and field study interviews with British management accountants, 16 different definitions of sophistication were discovered, and the three main definitions were: (1) the assignment of indirect overhead costs to product costs, (2) the inclusion of all costs in product costs, and (3) the understandability of product costs by nonaccountants. When these three types of sophistication were measured by the number of cost pools and the number of cost drivers, all of the product costing systems were simple. Both of these measures of sophistication were unrelated to the management accountants' satisfaction with the accuracy of product costs. The implication of these findings is that the term sophistication is too broad to have any meaning in relation to product costing systems. Given that sophistication can be defined in many different ways, research should concentrate on studying narrowly defined issues such as the three definitions of sophistication identified above. As satisfaction with product cost accuracy was not related to the number of cost pools and the number of cost drivers used in product costing systems, the importance of the treatment of overhead to increasing management accountants' satisfaction with the accuracy of product costs seems to be overstated.
Embolism of Brain Tissue in Intrapartum and Early Neonatal Deaths: Report of 9 Cases
Authors: Cox Phillip , Silvestri Evelina , Lazda Ed , Nash Ruth , Jeffrey Iona , Ostojic Nikola , Wigglesworth Jonathan
Published: July 2009

We report the clinical features and pathological findings in 9 cases of intrapartum and early neonatal death associated with embolism of brain tissue to the pulmonary and systemic circulation following difficult delivery. All except 1 of the cases in this series were born at, or near to, term, were vertex presentations, and were normally grown. All followed instrumental delivery and in 5, at least one mode of assisted delivery had failed. Whilst some evidence of cranial trauma was present in 7 cases, only 3 had skull fractures and 7 showed intracranial hemorrhage, although this was described as minor in 3. Emboli of brain tissue were identified in the pulmonary circulation in all cases. Fragments of brain were also seen in vessels of other organs, in particular the heart, in 6 cases. Emboli were highlighted by immunostaining for glial fibrillary acid protein. Brain emboli should be sought in all post mortems of unexplained intrapartum or early neonatal death following difficult delivery, even in the absence of overt cranial trauma. Disseminated intravascular coagulation is a frequent association. Extensive sampling for histology, particularly of the lungs and coronary vessels, is essential if this condition is not to be missed.
Telling Rose’s Stories
Authors: Charleson Diane
Published: July 2009

When I was young my grandmother used to tell me stories, her stories. These stories have now become my own and have been visually represented to share with a wider audience. Using the medium of a digital video installation, the viewer will be invited to partake in a space that presents these stories and at the same time create a unique storytelling environment. It will be possible to participate in a nonlinear visual experience that allows the viewer to be both listener and teller of stories. This paper presents the processes and background to the formulation of the project, incorporating the themes of memory, narrative and identity. By utilising the narrative inquiry research methodology, I have been able to combine the project and research in a symbiotic way. The method of narrative inquiry allows for a personal account of the research and by its very nature, being concerned with narrative discourse, is at the core of this project. The paper is presented with accompanying video footage from the installation to illustrate the major themes of the research.
Video Research in Health
Authors: Iedema Rick , Forsyth Rowena , Georgiou Andrew , Braithwaite Jeffrey , Westbrook Johanna
Published: July 2009

This paper discusses video ethnography as part of a multimethod study of the introduction of information technology to streamline pathology test order entry in hospitals and its effect on the work of pathology laboratory scientists. The paper opens with an overview of video research in health care settings. After acknowledging the limitations inherent in video data, the paper offers a description of how video footage served to enhance insight in three ways. First, the footage enhanced the researchers’ own appreciation of the significance of particular facets of the data, which led them to reassess information collected through interviewing, focus groups and research field notes. Second, the footage enhanced the pathology laboratory scientists’ appreciation of the problems they experienced when incorporating the new information technology into their daily work practice, by enabling them to articulate these problems to outside researchers. Third, by being watched (by the video camera) and by watching themselves perform their work they were enabled to redesign their practices. The paper suggests that, as a result of interactively performing their work in front of the camera, the scientists came to apprehend their practices ‘from under a different aspect’. The paper concludes that by allowing video ethnography as a research method to remain underdefined and emergent, the modality of engagement and uptake shown by participants in the video research can be considered as a further enriching aspect of video ethnography as a research process.
Journeys
Authors: Flood Adele
Published: July 2009

Through biographies we read the fragments of people’s lives that have been structured into a narrative discourse, the written text the mediating force that turns ’narrative into logic’ (Ricoeur, 1984, p. 30) This article reflects upon the fragmented nature of memories through both the stories of the author and the written works from a selection of influential texts encountered by the author. The photographs in this article frame a series of disjointed images that are connected to me through narrated stories. How much of these stories do I truly remember and how much do I embellish? The storytellers, my grandparents, are dead yet the stories remain. They are the connections I have with my family history and they are the historical conceptions I frame my personal discourse within (Flood, 2003). When trying to make sense of our lives it is to the fragments of memory we turn to construct our stories. The author, through the telling of her stories and the recounting of significant events surrounding her family’s histories as told by her grandmother, provides an exemplar of how such fragments can add to the understanding of the self. She reveals that by encountering such fragments within a life story, we can begin to make sense of our lives.
Gender‐specific differences in the psychosocial adjustment of parents of a child with duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) ‐ Two points of view for a shared experience
Authors: Tomiak Eva M. , Samson Andre , Miles Sarah A. , Choquette Mireille C. , Chakraborty Pranesh K. , Jacob Pierre J.
Published: July 2009

Research was conducted on parents’ experience of caring for a child living with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). The focus of this research was on the key psychological aspects of the process of adjustment to the illness of their child (family and spousal relationship, daily life, emotions, career, spirituality, and coping strategies). There was evidence throughout the study of gender‐specific differences in constructing the different aspects of the shared experience. The main findings included major differences in the initial reaction and coping styles between mothers and fathers. These differences could be perceived as a threat or could serve as a source of isolation between parents. Additional findings included the unequal sharing of caregiving tasks between partners: the primary caregiving role usually being assumed by the mother, with the father playing a supportive role. The unique contribution of this study in further describing the lived experience of parents of a child with DMD is its attention to the internal dynamic of the relationship between mothers and fathers. This dynamic is highly dependent on the respective roles of primary and secondary caregiver. This research has implications for the design and implementation of intervention strategies aimed at couples caring for a child with DMD, or with other severe, chronic, and uniformly fatal illnesses.
When Research Content Reflects Research Process ‐ Unexpected But Welcomed Symmetries
Authors: Thomas Glyn
Published: July 2009

Descriptions of research conducted within the interpretive research paradigm do not always capture its messy and unpredictable nature. The naturalistic inquiry described in this paper attempts to provide a candid account of some of the challenges encountered in such research. Interestingly, many of those challenges were consistent with the challenges associated with the process of learning to be a facilitator, which was the focus of my study. The study sought to describe the theories and practices of facilitator educators preparing facilitators to work in community organisations, training or education contexts, and business management settings. Following a brief description of the methodology and methods of the study, some of the unexpected symmetries between learning to be a facilitator and conducting interpretivist research are discussed. These included the need for selfawareness, practising intentionality, and managing conflicting roles. The strategies I used to respond to the research challenges I describe are also discussed and I encourage others to reflect on, and share, the trials and tribulations encountered during their research.
The Qualitative Research Process as a Journey ‐ Mapping Your Course with Qualitative Research Software
Authors: Robertson Stuart P.
Published: July 2009

This paper examines two planning tools incorporating the use of a computer‐assisted qualitative data analysis software package as applied to an actual research study. The first is the ‘NVivo Shell’. In creating a shell, the researcher is prompted to consider the role qualitative research software will take within the context of the project as a whole. Further, it acts as an initial framework to contemplate how the collected data might be organised and provides a way to organise it from the very beginning. The second tool is visual modelling. At a basic level, it can literally provide a map of the research process, which can be used to chart the progress of the research. With ever‐increasing complexity, it can be a way to visually represent a variety of ideas, concepts, sources, or beliefs and explore existing or potential relationships between and among them. The study used to contextualise their application is a doctoral dissertation (Robertson, 2007).
Enhancing Validity of a Qualitative Dissertation Research Study by Using NVIVO
Authors: Siccama Carolyn J. , Penna Stacy
Published: July 2009

As qualitative researchers struggle to come to grips with the technological revolution, they are faced with the necessity of learning and teaching qualitative data analysis software in higher education research courses. This change has significant implications for their practice as researchers and teachers. In this article we provide experienced‐based recommendations for individual practice (research instructors, dissertation advisers, and doctoral students) and for institutional practice (scaling up for deep integration of qualitative data analysis software). Our recommendations are grounded in hard‐earned experience gleaned from many years of working with individuals and institutional contexts to improve the use of qualitative research in higher education.
Cultural and Political Factors in Conducting Qualitative Research in China
Authors: Ying Yang Gui , Lê Thao
Published: July 2009

One of the main strengths of qualitative research is to focus on ideas, concepts and meanings involving individuals and groups of people in their own discourse. Instead of testing a narrow hypothesis or making a generalisation about a population on certain issues under investigation, qualitative research attempts to present different insights which can only be unearthed by direct and personal engagement with research participants (Brannen, 1992). This engagement should take place in a natural social context where real life takes place. However, conducting qualitative research in China can pose a huge challenge for both Chinese and international researchers. This paper examines some problems (ethics, linguistics, etc) of using qualitative research methods and tools such as interviews, participant observation, and Critical Discourse Analysis in China.
Using Action Research ‐ To Gauge the Quality of Feedback Given to Student Teachers While on Professional Teaching Practice
Authors: White Stephanie
Published: July 2009

Student teachers completing a three year pre‐service primary teaching degree in New Zealand experience a practical teaching component called professional practice. This is carried out in school placements for block periods and involves a visiting lecturer from their institution observing them teaching to ensure they are meeting their specific learning outcomes. One of the significant aspects of the lecturer visit is the giving of both spoken and written feedback to students on a variety of areas of their teaching practice. This action research was carried out over a two‐year period using the experiences of students in their second and third years to investigate the quality of feedback they received and the ways in which it could be improved. Throughout the study, the researcher used a qualitative research approach that involved in‐depth interviews and surveys with the students and two focus‐group discussions with lecturers. This approach allowed her to focus on her own practice of giving feedback to student teachers and to discover some unexpected aspects about herself as a practitioner. These reflections and other aspects of the study identified the key aspects for best quality feedback practice as; written reflections by the student teachers pre‐prepared questions by the observing lecturer in order to provide structure and guidance for the feedback process; establishment of as much time as possible for the feedback discussions; lecturers employing coaching skills for adult learners; honesty as a valued and welcomed trait; recognition that tacit knowledge is valuable and should be shared; and lecturers being readily available to students and able to provide them with prompt responses.
Learning Space Mashups: Combining Web 2.0 Tools to Create Collaborative and Reflective Learning Spaces
Authors: Wheeler Steve
Published: July 2009

In this paper, Web 2.0 open content mashups or combinations are explored. Two case studies of recent initial teacher training programmes are reviewed where blogs and wikis were blended to create new virtual learning spaces. In two separate studies, students offer their views about using these tools, and reflect on the strengths and weaknesses of this approach. There is also discussion about aggregation of content and a theorization of how community and personal spaces can create tension and conflict. A new ‘learning spaces’ model will be presented which aids visualization of the processes, domains and territories that are brought into play when content and Web 2.0 tools are mashed up within the same space.
Ionic Liquids: Just Molten Salts After All?
Authors: Yau Hon Man , Chan Si Jia , George Stephen R. D. , Hook James M. , Croft Anna K. , Harper Jason B.
Published: July 2009

While there has been much effort in recent years to characterise ionic liquids in terms of parameters that are well described for molecular solvents, using these to explain reaction outcomes remains problematic. Herein we propose that many reaction outcomes in ionic liquids may be explained by considering the electrostatic interactions present in the solution; that is, by recognising that ionic liquids are salts. This is supported by evidence in the literature, along with studies presented here.
Bacterial Extracellular Polysaccharides Involved in Biofilm Formation
Authors: Vu Barbara , Chen Miao , Crawford Russell  J. , Ivanova Elena  P.
Published: July 2009

Extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) produced by microorganisms are a complex mixture of biopolymers primarily consisting of polysaccharides, as well as proteins, nucleic acids, lipids and humic substances. EPS make up the intercellular space of microbial aggregates and form the structure and architecture of the biofilm matrix. The key functions of EPS comprise the mediation of the initial attachment of cells to different substrata and protection against environmental stress and dehydration. The aim of this review is to present a summary of the current status of the research into the role of EPS in bacterial attachment followed by biofilm formation. The latter has a profound impact on an array of biomedical, biotechnology and industrial fields including pharmaceutical and surgical applications, food engineering, bioremediation and biohydrometallurgy. The diverse structural variations of EPS produced by bacteria of different taxonomic lineages, together with examples of biotechnological applications, are discussed. Finally, a range of novel techniques that can be used in studies involving biofilm-specific polysaccharides is discussed.
Electroanalytical Sensors and Devices for Multiplexed Detection of Foodborne Pathogen Microorganisms
Authors: Pedrero María , Campuzano Susana , Pingarrón José  M.
Published: July 2009

The detection and identification of pathogen microorganisms still rely on conventional culturing techniques, which are not suitable for on-site monitoring. Therefore, a great research challenge in this field is focused on the need to develop rapid, reliable, specific, and sensitive methods to detect these bacteria at low cost. Moreover, the growing interest in biochip development for large scale screening analysis implies improved miniaturization, reduction of analysis time and cost, and multi-analyte detection, which has nowadays become a crucial challenge. This paper reviews multiplexed foodborne pathogen microorganisms detection methods based on electrochemical sensors incorporating microarrays and other platforms. These devices usually involve antibody-antigen and DNA hybridization specific interactions, although other approaches such as the monitoring of oxygen consumption are also considered.