bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
‘Candidatus Phytoplasma costaricanum’ a novel phytoplasma associated with an emerging disease in soybean (Glycine max)
Authors: Lee I.-M. , Bottner-Parker K. D. , Zhao Y. , Villalobos W. , Moreira L.
Published: January 2011

A novel phytoplasma, designated strain SoyST1c1, associated with a newly emerging disease in soybean (Glycine max), known as soybean stunt (SoyST), was found in 2002 in a soybean plantation in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica. The same phytoplasma, or a very closely related strain, also infected sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum) with purple vein syndrome (SwPPV) and passion fruit vine (Passiflora edulis) with bud proliferation disease (PasFBP) in the same region. Sequence analysis of cloned 16S rRNA gene sequences (GenBank accession nos FJ226068–FJ226073 and HQ225624–HQ225635) indicated that all three affected plants were infected by phytoplasmas that shared <97.5 % sequence similarity with previously described phytoplasmas. The SoyST-causing phytoplasma represents a new taxon, most closely related to phytoplasma group 16SrI and 16SrXII strains. Virtual RFLP analysis indicated that the SoyST-causing phytoplasma and its closely related strains represent a novel 16Sr group, designated 16SrXXXI. Phylogenetic analysis of 16S rRNA gene sequences from the new phytoplasma strains, those previously described as ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma spp.’ and other distinct, as yet unnamed, phytoplasmas indicated that the SoyST-causing phytoplasma represents a distinct lineage within the aster yellows/stolbur branch on the phylogenetic tree. On the basis of its unique 16S rRNA gene sequence and biological properties, strain SoyST1c1 represents a novel taxon, for which the name ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma costaricanum’ is proposed with SoyST1c1 as the reference strain.
Paenibacillus sacheonensis sp. nov., a xylanolytic and cellulolytic bacterium isolated from tidal flat sediment
Authors: Moon Jeong Chan , Jung Young Jun , Jung Ji Hyun , Jung Hyun Suk , Cheong Young Ryun , Jeon Che Ok , Lee Kyun Oh , Lee Sang Yeol
Published: January 2011

A Gram-negative-staining, rod-shaped bacterium, designated strain SY01T, was isolated from tidal flat sediment from Sacheon Bay, South Korea. Strain SY01T was characterized with respect to its phenotypic and phylogenetic characteristics. The novel strain was spore-forming, motile, catalase-negative and oxidase-positive. Optimal growth of the strain occurred at 30 °C and pH 7.0. The DNA G+C content was 56.1 mol%. The predominant menaquinone was MK-7. Diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine and several unknown lipids were detected in the polar lipid profile. Anteiso-C15 : 0 (47.2 %), iso-C15 : 0 (18.9 %) and iso-C16 : 0 (10.5 %) were the major cellular fatty acids of strain SY01T. The highest 16S rRNA gene sequence similarities were found with Paenibacillus phyllosphaerae PALXIL04T (95.9 %), Paenibacillus tarimensis SA-7-6T (94.6 %) and Paenibacillus mendelii C/2T (94.4 %). Based on the phylogenetic, chemotaxonomic and physiological characteristics presented in this study, strain SY01T represents a novel species of the genus Paenibacillus, for which the name Paenibacillus sacheonensis sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is SY01T ( = DSM 23054T = KACC 14895T).
Streptomyces fenghuangensis sp. nov., isolated from seawater
Authors: Zhu Honghui , Jiang Shumei , Yao Qing , Wang Yonghong , Chen Meibiao , Chen Yuanliang , Guo Jun
Published: January 2011

An actinomycete, designated strain GIMN4.003T, was isolated from seawater collected in Sanya, China. It produced white aerial mycelium and yellow substrate mycelium on Gause’s synthetic agar medium no. 1. The substrate mycelium colour was not sensitive to pH. Scanning electron microscopy observations revealed that GIMN4.003T produced straight to flexuous spore chains of rough to warty spores. ll-Diaminopimelic acid was present in the cell-wall hydrolysate. Based on chemotaxonomy and morphological features, strain GIMN4.003T was identified as a member of the genus Streptomyces. Melanin was not produced. No antimicrobial activity was detected against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, Penicillium citrinum or Candida albicans. Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequence revealed that the highest sequence similarity was to Streptomyces radiopugnans R97T (99.0 %). However, DNA relatedness between GIMN4.003T and S. radiopugnans DSM 41901T was low (41.24±1.47 %). Furthermore, the morphological, physiological and biochemical characteristics of strain GIMN4.003T were different from those of S. radiopugnans DSM 41901T and the type strains of other closely related Streptomyces species. On the basis of its physiological and molecular properties, it is evident that strain GIMN4.003T ( = CCTCCM 208215T  = NRRL B-24801T) represents the type strain of a novel species within the genus Streptomyces, for which the name Streptomyces fenghuangensis sp. nov. is proposed.
The PP2A Regulatory Subunit Tap46, a Component of the TOR Signaling Pathway, Modulates Growth and Metabolism in Plants
Authors: Ahn Chang Sook , Han Jeong-A , Lee Ho-Seok , Lee Semi , Pai Hyun-Sook
Published: January 2011

Tap42/α4, a regulatory subunit of protein phosphatase 2A, is a downstream effector of the target of rapamycin (TOR) protein kinase, which regulates cell growth in coordination with nutrient and environmental conditions in yeast and mammals. In this study, we characterized the functions and phosphatase regulation of plant Tap46. Depletion of Tap46 resulted in growth arrest and acute plant death with morphological markers of programmed cell death. Tap46 interacted with PP2A and PP2A-like phosphatases PP4 and PP6. Tap46 silencing modulated cellular PP2A activities in a time-dependent fashion similar to TOR silencing. Immunoprecipitated full-length and deletion forms of Arabidopsis thaliana TOR phosphorylated recombinant Tap46 protein in vitro, supporting a functional link between Tap46 and TOR. Tap46 depletion reproduced the signature phenotypes of TOR inactivation, such as dramatic repression of global translation and activation of autophagy and nitrogen mobilization, indicating that Tap46 may act as a positive effector of TOR signaling in controlling those processes. Additionally, Tap46 silencing in tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) BY-2 cells caused chromatin bridge formation at anaphase, indicating its role in sister chromatid segregation. These findings suggest that Tap46, in conjunction with associated phosphatases, plays an essential role in plant growth and development as a component of the TOR signaling pathway.
The Nucleus-Encodedtrans-Acting Factor MCA1 Plays a Critical Role in the Regulation of CytochromefSynthesis inChlamydomonasChloroplasts
Authors: Boulouis Alix , Raynaud Cécile , Bujaldon Sandrine , Aznar Aude , Wollman Francis-André , Choquet Yves
Published: January 2011

Organelle gene expression is characterized by nucleus-encoded trans-acting factors that control posttranscriptional steps in a gene-specific manner. As a typical example, in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii, expression of the chloroplast petA gene encoding cytochrome f, a major subunit of the cytochrome b  6  f complex, depends on MCA1 and TCA1, required for the accumulation and translation of the petA mRNA. Here, we show that these two proteins associate in high molecular mass complexes that also contain the petA mRNA. We demonstrate that MCA1 is degraded upon interaction with unassembled cytochrome f that transiently accumulates during the biogenesis of the cytochrome b  6  f complex. Strikingly, this interaction relies on the very same residues that form the repressor motif involved in the Control by Epistasy of cytochrome f Synthesis (CES), a negative feedback mechanism that downregulates cytochrome f synthesis when its assembly within the cytochrome b  6  f complex is compromised. Based on these new findings, we present a revised picture for the CES regulation of petA mRNA translation that involves proteolysis of the translation enhancer MCA1, triggered by its interaction with unassembled cytochrome f.
Google Generation II: web behaviour experiments with the BBC
Authors: Nicholas David , Rowlands Ian , Clark David , Williams Peter
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on continuing research undertaken on the way the Google Generation behave on the internet and to compare this with an earlier highly publicised study by the paper's authors.

Design/methodology/approach

This research use a televised practical experiment and a remote web global test incorporating search, working memory and multi‐tasking experiments.

Findings

The Google Generation appears to behave very differently from older generations. By their own admission they are less confident about their searching prowess and this is also demonstrated by the fact that they viewed fewer pages, visited fewer domains and undertook fewer searches. Also, tellingly, their search statements were much more the product of cut and paste. The Google Generation also have poorer working memories and are less competent at multi‐tasking, both of which may have implications for researching in an online environment.

Originality/value

The paper introduces of multi‐tasking and cognitive measurement in evaluating and describing information‐seeking behaviour; comparing the web behaviour of young and old; the first time this has been shown on public television.
EIAH data model
Authors: Khazraee Emad , Moaddeli Saeed , Sanjari Azadeh , Shakeri Shadi
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a clear image of the information architecture used in the Encyclopedia of Iranian Architectural History (EIAH) and to show how it was crafted to meet the need for accessibility, expressiveness and interoperability.

Design/methodology/approach

In order to assess the level of interoperability in the system, two essential concepts of the system are identified and traced in every level of the three‐layer information architecture. Federated repositories are studied for the level of accessibility that they can offer. Knowledge representation level, mediator level and the semantic portal are studied for expressiveness capabilities.

Findings

EIAH information architecture is capable of establishing links among resources available in the information pools connected to the system by using EIAH metadata application profile (EMAP). Different modules in this architecture, which are localized for the Persian language, can work on similar environments for other languages, for example Arabic.

Originality/value

EIAH is the first example of a digital encyclopedia for the history of Iranian architecture, which is basically different from other digital encyclopedias in the way that it offers information to users. EIAH is aimed at domain experts and provides them not with pre‐written and quality articles but with a wide range of resources and documents relative to what they are seeking.
Modelling the information‐seeking behaviour of children and young people
Authors: Shenton Andrew K. , Hay‐Gibson Naomi V.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The paper seeks to draw on Sice's systems model, itself based on Senge's “fixes that fail” archetype, and on data from two previous research projects conducted by one of the authors. The purpose of this paper is to synthesise a new model that portrays the information‐seeking behaviour of children and young people.

Design/methodology/approach

The systems model provides the backbone of the new framework but additions, accommodations and revisions were made to ensure that the version featured here represents the phenomenon of information seeking by the young as appropriately as possible in terms of the data that were gathered.

Findings

One of the new model's most significant characteristics is its emphasis on problems and issues that prevent information seeking from proceeding smoothly. Information seeking is also shown to be an iterative process, with the individual often revisiting previous stages, frequently in response to difficulties.

Research limitations/implications

Data were collected from pupils in just seven schools. The undertaking of research further a‐field would be invaluable, if the extent to which the model is applicable to other information‐seekers in different environments is to be ascertained.

Practical implications

The model demonstrates the importance of the information professional's educative role, in terms of both delivering formal information literacy instruction and providing assistance at the point of need.

Originality/value

Although the use of ideas and frameworks from other disciplines, with the aim of increasing understanding of phenomena within LIS, is a growing trend, this paper represents one of the first attempts to apply an existing model associated with systems thinking to information behaviour.
A study on the development of Korean academic libraries' duty model based on the job analysis
Authors: Kim Sin‐Young , Lee Jee‐Yeon
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze the jobs and duties involved in Korean academic libraries and to provide a clear picture of relative issues. This research will assist universities with the HR management and institutional development that are essential for appropriate role division, organizational diagnosis and rational reform, and increasing the expertise of librarians.

Design/methodology/approach

All of the various duties being executed in academic libraries were identified. Korean academic libraries were requested to assist with the survey. Questionnaires were collected surveying the level of awareness of all the duties involved in the academic libraries and survey responses analyzed to determine the importance, difficulty, and professionalism of 189 library duties.

Findings

Through this study, perceived levels of frequency, importance, and difficulty of duties related to academic libraries were surveyed and average values for each duty were compared and analyzed to formulate a duty model and action plan.

Originality/value

This paper presents a basic library duty model reflecting the rapidly changing information technologies and information types of Korean academic libraries based on the job analysis. Through this process, university libraries will be able to optimize human resources management and achieve efficiency in organizational management, as well as creating materials to support education/training and performance management, thus ultimately helping with the rationalization of their operation.
Bibliometric analysis of Chinese superconductivity research, 1986‐2007
Authors: Zhu Qilun , Willett Peter
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to carry out a bibliometric analysis of the development of Chinese research in superconductivity since the advent of high‐temperature superconductivity (HTS) in the mid‐1980s, and to compare Chinese research with that of its international competitors.

Design/methodology/approach

This research used publications, citations, journals, subject categories and institutional data from the Web of Science database.

Findings

Chinese HTS research has grown steadily in importance over the period, with a significant increase in peer‐recognition, as measured by citations from non‐Chinese researchers. A comparison with superconductivity research in England, France, Germany, Japan, Russia and the USA shows that the impact of the Chinese work is growing relative to the other countries, with a cluster analysis showing that the current bibliometric status of Chinese research is most similar to that of England, France and Russia.

Originality/value

This is both the first bibliometric study of Chinese research in superconductivity and the first bibliometric comparison of different countries' research in superconductivity since the advent of HTS. Cluster analysis provides an interesting way of identifying analogous international bibliometric profiles.
Performance‐related pay in German public services
Authors: Schmidt Werner , Trittel Nele , Müller Andrea
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This article seeks to examine the experiences of the recent introduction of performance‐related pay (PRP) in German public services. From an industrial relations perspective, it addresses the question of how different designs of PRP schemes and the circumstances under which PRP is implemented influence its functionality and its acceptance by employees.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses an analysis of 215 works and establishment agreements, 17 case studies in municipalities of the federal state of North Rhine‐Westphalia (including employee attitude surveys in three cases), and interviews with experts from the employers' federation and the trade union.

Findings

It is shown that – in accordance with the literature – enhancing employee motivation is not the only objective pursued by the collective actors in the introduction of PRP. Different PRP schemes have differing effects: highly selective PRP schemes tend to fail; schemes resembling conventional appraisal systems have little positive effect on motivation and performance, whereas participative systems focusing on the inclusion of employees can offer an opportunity to renegotiate performance objectives in the public services.

Practical implications

Factors such as balancing material interest and social recognition, and strengthening participative elements could be crucial for improving the acceptance and functionality of PRP schemes.

Originality/value

This paper provides first findings on the recent introduction of PRP in the German public sector and contributes to the discussion on the functionality of PRP in public services.
The operational performance of UK airlines: 2002‐2007
Authors: Assaf A. George , Josiassen Alexander
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to measure the efficiency of UK airlines in light of all the recent industry challenges.

Design/methodology/approach

The study measured the technical efficiency of airlines through the innovative data envelopment analysis (DEA) bootstrap methodology.

Findings

Results based on a sample of recent input/output data indicated that the efficiency of UK airlines has continuously declined since 2004 to reach a value of 73.39 per cent in 2007. Factors which were found to be significantly and positively related to technical efficiency variations include airline size and load factor. The paper also highlights that factors such as increase in oil price and fierce market competition were also potential inefficiency determinants.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper provide a fresh link between airline performance and the current industry characteristics. UK airlines also have a major role in the European and international aviation sector, and thus a reflection on their efficiency could be of interest to private and public policy makers.

Originality/value

The paper focuses on a recent period and thus provide a fresh efficiency assessment of the airline industry. The study also extends the limited literature available on UK airlines.
The Nordic experience revisited: labour market booms and slumps since the 1990s in Finland and Sweden
Authors: Pehkonen Jaakko , Sala Hector , Salvador Pablo F.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an account of the unemployment performance of two Nordic countries during their recent labour market booms and slumps.

Design/methodology/approach

Based on the empirical models of Karanassou et al., we conduct dynamic simulation exercises and explore the determinants of unemployment.

Findings

The analysis yields two main findings. First, the capital stock was the most important determinant of the unemployment trajectory in both countries. This result appears in all periods considered: in the slump of the early 1990s and the boom of the late 1990s, as well as in the stabilisation period of the early 2000s. Second, the role of the foreign sector on the unemployment trajectory was significant in Finland, its quantitative impact being one‐third of the effect for the capital stock in the first and third periods, and half of the latter in the second period.

Originality/value

The results illustrate the importance of non‐standard labour market variables in examining unemployment trajectories. The findings call for a wider than usual perspective in trying to solve the unemployment problem.
Innovation, industrial relations and employee outcomes: evidence from Italy
Authors: Antonioli Davide , Mazzanti Massimiliano , Pini Paolo
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the relationships between working conditions, innovation activities and industrial relations in two local production systems located in the northern Italy, exploiting data collected throughad‐hocsurveys in 2004 and 2006.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper follows a recent stream of literature, which is still quite scanty, that addresses the issue of the implication for workers derived from the introduction of organizational changes. This topic is addressed and extended, taking into consideration both the role of firm level industrial relations and the role of other innovation activities that may influence working conditions.

Findings

The results seem to support the position maintained by the advocates of organizational changes. Job empowerment is spurred by the form of organizational changes usually defined as high performance workplace practices. However, such typology of changes in the organization does not seem to be linked with positive trends in safety/security and stress. At the same time the positive role of cooperative industrial relations on the working condition emerges, also as complementary elements to innovation activities.

Originality/value

This work confirms some relevant empirical results obtained in international literature about the linkages between organizational changes and working conditions. At the same time it provides an original perspective of analysis taking into account other influencing factors of workers' well being: good quality industrial relations at firm level and innovation activities such as technological innovation and ICT.
Long‐term effects of fiscal policies in Portugal
Authors: Marvão Pereira Alfredo , Roca‐Sagalés Oriol
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to estimate the long‐term effects on output of different fiscal policies in Portugal.

Design/methodology/approach

Results are obtained from accumulated impulse response functions associated with unrestricted VAR models that include several public spending and taxation variables in addition to output.

Findings

Empirical results suggest that the effects of fiscal policies are within the Keynesian paradigm for public investment and direct taxation. In turn, non‐Keynesian effects dominate in the case of intermediate public consumption and indirect taxation where the effects are negligible.

Practical implications

Cuts in public consumption and increases in indirect taxations seem to be the most desirable instruments for fiscal consolidation in Portugal. Also, deficit‐neutral policies that offset increases in public investment with increases in indirect taxes have long‐term positive effects on output. The same is true for cuts in direct taxation offset with cuts in all forms of public spending except for public investment.

Originality/value

This is one of the few papers in this literature to use disaggregated public spending and taxation data. It is also a seminal application to the Portuguese case.
Transforming special collections through innovative uses for LibGuides
Authors: Griffin Melanie , Lewis Barbara
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to explore the utility of Springshare's LibGuides platform for special collections repositories and to evaluate the collection guides built by Special & Digital Collections at the University of South Florida in LibGuides.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper explores how academic libraries have used LibGuides previously and provides a case study that suggests new ways for special collections repositories to make the most of the product.

Findings

The simplicity and easy‐to‐update functionality of LibGuides works well for USF's Special & Digital Collections collection guides. The flexible API allowed SDC to embed digital content, enable user comments, advertise events, and measure the impact of various services.

Practical implications

LibGuides provides an intuitive, simple, and cost‐effective method to create dynamic and frequently updated guides to special collections.

Originality/value

This is the first paper to explore the use of LibGuides in a special collections repository.
The Jewish Studies Book Awards: a collection development strategy for non‐sectarian academic libraries
Authors: Taler Izabella
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper aims to provide an alternative method of building quality collections for Jewish Studies collection development professionals in small and medium‐sized academic libraries with highly restricted budgets.

Design/methodology/approach

Sources of Jewish Studies literary awards were identified and a detailed analysis of awarded books' subjects and the publishing sources was conducted.

Findings

The results show that awarded books cover a vast variety of subjects of interest to Jewish Studies collections. Since many of them are also published by academic presses, the use of identified Jewish Studies book award sources should be considered by bibliographers responsible for building Jewish Studies collections in non‐sectarian college libraries with very limited budgetary resources.

Practical implications

The “one stop” access to all award sources and awarded books provides an easy access to otherwise dispersed information.

Originality/value

The comprehensive list of awards, nominated and winning titles, as well as the subject analysis presented herein, is the first of its kind. This can be used by Jewish Studies bibliographers to build and improve their collections and can also serve as a model for building other interdisciplinary subject collections.
Terrorism: a guide to resources
Authors: Okamoto Karen , Bladek Marta
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Prior to 9/11, terrorism was subject to political, scholarly, and media debates. A large body of literature on the topic reflected researchers' long‐standing interest in the topic. In the near decade since 9/11, terrorism and its threat have only gained urgency. This paper aims to provide a selected bibliography of resources, in print and electronic format, that focus on terrorism. Public and academic libraries have been providing access to terrorism‐related resources, but no thematic bibliography has been published in professional journals since 2001. This guide aims to aid librarians in making decisions about developing and maintaining collections on the topic.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors consulted a variety of sources, including the Library of Congress catalog, WorldCat, Bowker's Global Books in Print database, book reviews in Choice, Booklist, and in journals within terrorism studies. As John Jay College of Criminal Justice is home to The Center on Terrorism and the college offers an MA Certificate Program in Terrorism Studies, the authors also consulted the college library collection that supports these scholarly activities on terrorism at the college.

Practical implications

Because of the volume of terrorism‐related scholarship and the number of available resources on the topic, this bibliography does not purport to be complete.

Findings

Included in this guide are print and electronic encyclopedias, books, periodicals, databases, and websites covering terrorism.

Originality/value

This guide aims to assist students, faculty, and the general public in navigating the vast array of terrorism‐related resources. Focusing on research conducted and published since 2001, it is also intended as a guide for public and academic librarians who develop, maintain, or evaluate a collection on the topic.
Globalizing children's literature in academic libraries using automatic acquisition
Authors: Thornton Elaine
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper sets out to examine the use of an automatic acquisition plan to acquire international children's award book winners in academic libraries and to offer suggestions for promoting these resources.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper examined the vendor's website, vendor‐created spreadsheets detailing award‐winning children's books from 2007‐2009, and book award websites.

Findings

The findings show that acquiring international children's award book winners using an automatic acquisition plan is an excellent starting‐point for developing international children's award collections. Featured awards favor works in English. Award books from all continents and regions are not available, but award winners chosen by ethnic and international organizations can be selected to broaden the ethnic and cultural diversity of the resources.

Originality/value

This paper details a beginning point for acquiring and promoting international children's award book winners for academic libraries in order to support multiculturalism and globalism by diversifying curriculum materials collection and providing vital resources for future educators and the larger campus community.
Does social media have a place in workplace learning?
Authors: Shepherd Clive
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper sets out the arguments for the use of social media as a tool for learning in the workplace.

Design/methodology/approach

Not applicable – viewpoint paper

Findings

Social media can play a valuable role in both formal and informal learning in those organizations in which employees have some discretion over how they use their time and when they have easy access to networked computers.

Practical implications

Organisations should look closely at the potential for using social media

Originality/value

Clearly sets out four specific applications for social media in workplace learning – formal, non‐formal, in‐demand and experiential learning.
Big 4 auditor affiliation and accruals quality in Bangladesh
Authors: Humayun Kabir M. , Sharma Divesh , Islam Ainul , Salat Amirus
Published: January 2011

Purpose

Bangladesh is an emerging economy and international audit firms operate there through affiliated local audit firms. The Bangladesh audit market can be characterized as an intensely competitive small audit market with relatively poor demand for high‐audit quality. In addition, Bangladesh has a relatively small and under developed but growing capital market that is characterized by poor corporate regulation and weak investor protection. The purpose of this paper is to examine the association between Big 4 affiliated auditors and accruals quality in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

Following prior literature, this paper uses both absolute discretionary accruals and signed discretionary accruals as proxies of accruals quality. The sample is 382 firm‐year observations and covers fiscal years 2000‐2003.

Findings

It was found that the association between Big 4 affiliates and accruals quality in Bangladesh depends on measures of accruals quality and accruals models used. Overall, Big 4 affiliates do not have a positive impact on accruals quality of their clients in Bangladesh.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature on audit quality and accruals quality. The results potentially suggest that Big 4 affiliates do not have any positive impact on accruals quality of clients in an intensely competitive audit market where the demand for quality audit is poor and monitoring is lax and raise potential implications for policy makers and market participants in Bangladesh.
Using workforce structures to enable staff retention and development
Authors: Warren Vanessa
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine the practical context and implications surrounding a workforce review undertaken by the University of Tasmania (UTAS) Library and the measures taken to address the key problems it identified, particularly those relating to the recruitment and retention of new and existing liaison librarians.

Design/methodology/approach

Workforce planning methodologies were used to identify the gaps in the Library's projected staffing needs and current situation. Two of the major changes implemented to address these gaps were the restructuring of liaison librarian positions, and the implementation of a development and articulation structure for new librarians.

Findings

The workforce planning process identified a number of key gaps in capacity, particularly in terms of the ability to retain existing liaison librarians, and the recruitment of new librarians to anticipate the impending impact of a significantly aged workforce. After the restructuring and development framework were implemented UTAS Library found itself with an increase in new librarian staff, a structure that better reflected skills of staff, and enabled greater flexibility and movement across levels.

Originality/value

The paper provides a practical example of workforce planning, position restructuring and formal development structures for new librarians in an academic library.
The DiSCmap project
Authors: Birrell Duncan , Dobreva Milena , Dunsire Gordon , Griffiths Jillian R. , Hartley Richard J. , Menzies Kathleen
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the outcomes of digitisation of special collections: mapping, assessment, prioritisation (DiSCmap), a JISC and RIN‐funded project which studied users' priorities for the digitisation of special collections within the context of UK Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).

Design/methodology/approach

The project produced a list of 945 collections nominated for digitisation by intermediaries and end users and a user‐driven prioritisation framework. Data were gathered via web questionnaires. Focus groups and telephone interviews with end users provided additional insights on the views of those working within particular domains or disciplines. Over 1,000 intermediaries and end users contributed by nominating collections for the “long list” and providing opinions about digitisation priorities.

Findings

The long list of collections nominated for digitisation provides evidence of identified user interest and is not merely a “snapshot” but a significant outcome. A user‐driven framework for prioritising digitisation was also produced. The project suggests a flexible approach for prioritising collections for digitisation based on the use of the framework in combination with the long list of collections.

Research limitations/implications

The project did not undertake a representative study; the participation of intermediaries and end users was a matter of goodwill. Yet 44 per cent of HEIs in the UK nominated special collections to the long list.

Originality/value

The paper provides new insights and evidence on user priorities for the digitisation of special collections. It also suggests a user‐driven digitisation prioritisation framework of benefit in future decision making, both locally and nationally.
After Hurricane Katrina: The Tulane Recovery Project
Authors: Topper Elisa F.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine one academic library and how the staff dealt with the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study of the Tulane Recovery Center in New Orleans that was created after Hurricane Katrina in cooperation with Library Associates Companies (LAC).

Findings

Institutions may have a disaster plan outlined as to what to do in an emergency but in actuality one is never fully prepared for a natural disaster.

Originality/value

This paper examines the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina on the Howard‐Tilton Memorial Library at Tulane University and the creation of the Tulane Recovery Center, which can serve as a model for other to follow.
City councillors and the mission of public libraries
Authors: Gazo Dominique
Published: January 2011

Purpose

In Quebec, where a large majority of public libraries are municipal departments, the mission of the libraries must be defined in collaboration with city councillors and acknowledged by them. The purpose of this paper is to understand the views of city councillors in Quebec on the mission of public libraries, and to compare them to actual library practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy adopted is a multiple case study. Interviews were conducted with 12 city councillors who represent their library on the city council. These interviews and the municipal cultural policies were subjected to a discourse analysis. The interviews with the directors of the public libraries and some documents were subjected to content analysis.

Findings

A conceptual framework based on the theory of social construction of reality is proposed to study the discourses of city councillors in their textual dimension, to contextualise them and to analyse them in comparison with library practices.

Originality/value

There is no homogeneous view among city councillors in Quebec on the mission of public libraries. However, a model of the discourse of city councillors does emerge. It is less developed than current literature. It presents a passive image of the library in which the tradition continues, ignoring the Information Society. The analysis also revealed that the views of city councillors are based on their own convictions as individuals, on their role in the management of the municipality as elected officials, and on the image they have of the users of public libraries.
A park in the library
Authors: Kao Peng , Chen Kuan‐nien
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present the experience of National Taiwan University Medical Library (NTUML) in changing the atmosphere of the library, catering to the needs of current users; attracting potential users to the library; and modifying the library's image from a place filled with stacks of books and clusters of computers to a place where people might relax and enjoy reading.

Design/methodology/approach

NTUML commenced the planning stage of the renovation of its Reference Room on the third floor in June 2007. After extensive discussions with the interior designer, the NTUML transformed an abstract idea into the concrete design of the “New Reading Paradise”, a diverse and cozy environment suitable for quiet reading, group discussion and interaction. The “New Reading Paradise” was officially open to public in March 2008. The 992‐square‐meter reading paradise houses a choice collection of books and reference materials, with comfortable, brightly‐lit discussion rooms and ergonomically designed reading tables and chairs.

Findings

Records show that from 2005 to 2008 the number of readers using the NTUML Reference Room increased by 52.60 percent. The NTUML conducted a small questionnaire survey of a random sample of its users. Of the 40 respondents, 35 were satisfied with the overall design of the space, and the remaining five thought it was acceptable. A total 37 respondents said that they were more inclined to use the library because of the “New Reading Paradise”.

Originality/value

The paper describes how the library transformed itself to become more in tune with the needs of its users. The Reading Paradise reminds the users to slow down, take a mind break, and enjoy reading and thinking. This is a responsibility of the library.
Academic libraries and information technology
Authors: Massis Bruce E.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss the convergence of the academic library and the information technology departments regarding whether this is, as has been suggested, “an arranged marriage” or a synchronous melding of two related services, and to establish an awareness of the various models resulting from this concept.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach takes the form of a literature review and commentary on this topic that has been addressed by colleagues.

Findings

Findings suggest that there are several models of service that have been developed out of this concept resulting in varying levels of acceptance and success.

Originality/value

The value in addressing this issue is to create an awareness of the issue of convergence of the academic library with the IT entity on a college campus.
Highlights of IFLA Congress 2010 in Gothenburg
Authors: Koren Marian
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an account of highlights of the IFLA Congress 2010 held in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides an account of the IFLA Congress in the context of the IFLA strategic plan and midterm strategy.

Findings

Various links to IFLA information are provided.

Originality/value

Information about a major internal conference for the information and library profession is given in this paper.
A validation study of the leadership styles of a holistic leadership theoretical framework
Authors: Brauckmann Stefan , Pashiardis Petros
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The overall purpose of the European Union‐funded Leadership Improvement for Student Achievement (LISA) project was to explore how leadership styles, as conceptualized in the developed dynamic holistic leadership framework, directly or indirectly affect student achievement at the lower secondary level of education in seven European countries. This paper seeks to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

In its methodological design the study is a mixture of research methods and collaborative action research shared by acting school leaders and researchers. A series of statistical analyses was carried out in order to gather evidence whether the data from the LISA project supported the initially developed holistic leadership theoretical framework. Consequently, first some descriptive statistics are introduced in order to acquaint the reader with the kind of data the survey used from the schoolteacher questionnaires. Further, some explanations are laid out with regard to the methodologies employed in order to analyze the data, such as the treatment of missing data and exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis structural equation models (SEM); then, a description of the main findings is offered through the analyses, which were conducted in order to predict school performance level from the relevant leadership style, followed by between‐countries comparisons and analyses. Finally, an in‐depth discussion and interpretations of the main findings – both integrative and concludive in nature – are offered.

Findings

The quantitative analyses stemming from confirmatory factor analysis and SEM identified five robust underlying dimensions of practised leadership styles across the seven participating European countries. Furthermore, the findings stemming from the logistic regression analyses pointed out clearly the complementary inter‐relationships of the main research questions of the study and analytical strands, especially with regard to the impact of certain intermediate variables on student achievement.

Originality/value

The expected results of this approach are predominantly assumed/seen as an enrichment in the grounding of hypothetical and theoretical ideas as well as professional development for both school principals and researchers. Such an equal contribution of school leaders and school leaders' organizations and researchers could probably provide a model for future professional development programs for both groups of professionals.
Leadership effects on student achievement and sustained school success
Authors: Jacobson Stephen
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of leadership on student achievement and sustained school success, especially in challenging, high‐poverty schools.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper combines a review of the leadership literature with findings drawn from longitudinal studies of the International Successful School Principalship Project (ISSPP).

Findings

Direction setting, developing people and redesigning the organization were practices common to successful principals in all contexts, including those in challenging, high‐poverty schools. How these practices manifested varied in relation to national context and tradition. Distributed teacher leadership and professional self‐renewal emerged as processes central to sustaining success, and, in at least one US case, a change in organizational governance was necessary to allow these processes to continue over time.

Originality/value

The paper adds to the literature on leadership effects on student achievement and sustaining school success, especially in challenging high‐poverty schools.
Revised models and conceptualisation of successful school principalship for improved student outcomes
Authors: Mulford Bill , Silins Halia
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This study aims to present revised models and a reconceptualisation of successful school principalship for improved student outcomes.

Design/methodology/approach

The study's approach is qualitative and quantitative, culminating in model building and multi‐level statistical analyses.

Findings

Principals who promote both capacity building and systems of accountability and evaluation, to the extent that their teachers perceive these two factors as characterising their schools, advance student empowerment, social development and academic achievement. Other success factors include student home educational environment, the values and beliefs of teachers, and principals' years in a school and hours worked. It is demonstrated that the negative effects of socio‐economic disadvantage can be moderated.

Practical implications

Insights are provided into how schools and their principals can best achieve a broad range of student outcomes. For example, the most direct route for a school to achieve academic success is the indirect route through fostering student social development. For successful practice, the challenge is to create synergistic effects; the accumulation of a number of effects developed with others over time in the same direction.

Originality/value

This study represents the culmination of a five‐year research journey on school principalship that improves student outcomes. It employs an in‐depth qualitative and quantitative methodology culminating in model building and powerful multi‐level statistical analyses. It is one of few studies available that examines most of the factors that may influence a school's success in three categories of student outcomes: academic achievement, social development, and student empowerment.