bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The role of performance measurement systems to support quality improvement initiatives at supply chain level
Authors: Cagnazzo Luca , Taticchi Paolo , Brun Alessandro
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to discuss which are the most important critical success factors (CSFs) to be attained for determining whether a group of companies in a supply chain (SC) is prepared to undergo a qualitative improvement initiative (QII). By answering four critical research questions, the paper focuses on the role of performance measurement systems (PMSs) as a CSF to support QII and discusses which PMS is more appropriate for the different SC context existing in the new economy.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology adopted in this research relies on different approaches. In order to evaluate the readiness of a company in the SC to start a QII, the authors propose a checklist of CSFs defined through a literature review. Further, to evaluate the impact of PMSs to support QII at the SC level, the authors review PMS literature and discuss the characteristics of the various PMS available. Last, in order to select the best PMS to support the QII of companies belonging to different SC, the authors propose a classification matrix based on the SC characteristics.

Findings

The main findings of this research is the understanding of the PMS role in supporting QII at SC level.

Research limitations/implications

The research presented in this paper needs to be validated through the use of case studies, in order to optimize the methodology proposed.

Practical implications

This paper offers to academics, managers and practitioners a structured methodology to select the right PMS to support QII in specific SC contexts.

Originality/value

Few researches are available exploring the correlation between PMS and QII, especially in particular collaborative environments such as SCs. As a consequence, the methodology and findings of this paper add value to the existing body of knowledge and offer good insights for addressing future research.
Direct marketing channels in the French wine industry
Authors: Gurau Calin , Duquesnois Franck
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The paper's objective is to investigate the relation between direct and indirect marketing channels applied by French wine producers, and to identify the elements that can enhance the success of direct distribution methods.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data collected though a questionnaire survey, and published in a study of Viniflhor was analysed in order to identify the distribution channels used by French wine producers. In the second part of the study, primary qualitative data obtained through face‐to‐face interviews with 17 wine producers was used to explore their direct marketing approach.

Findings

The findings indicated that French wine producers use a large variety of both direct and indirect marketing channels, although the importance of these distribution methods varies with the size of the producer (defined in terms of vineyard area and wine production). An integrated distribution strategy is applied by more than a half of the respondents. Although the strategic planning process is applied informally and intuitively, a series of innovative elements are combined in order to enhance the value of the product offer and to develop long‐term relationships with satisfied customers.

Research limitations/implications

The low response rate obtained in the application of data collection methods raises questions regarding the possibility to generalize the findings to the entire population of study.

Originality/value

The paper applies a three layer analysis to the situation of the French wine producers from various regions, creatively combining focused investigation with an integrative perspective.
Scrip, stores, and cash‐strapped cities
Authors: Elvins Sarah
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine retailer response to the use of alternative currency, or scrip, as an emergency measure during the Great Depression. Advocates of scrip argue that it would help recovery efforts, encouraging consumer spending and keeping dollars “at home” within the local community. Merchants face a dilemma, as they hope to use any means to increase sales, but are worried that they would be left holding a stack of worthless paper that they would not be able to pass on to their suppliers. Two cases of scrip in action in Chicago and Atlanta are contrasted.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper draws upon primary data sources including period newspapers from across the USA, business periodicals, archival materials from retailers and city councils, and government reports.

Findings

There is no uniform response to the use of scrip by merchants. Some retailers hope to use scrip to boost sales and encourage consumer loyalty, and even organized their own campaigns to use alternative currency. In other cases, retailers felt the risks of accepting scrip were too high. Without the participation of retailers, scrip schemes were doomed to failure.

Originality/value

In the early years of the Depression, alternative currency enjoyed a remarkable popularity across the USA. It is now known that scrip would not end the crisis, as boosters hoped, yet this episode reveals much about popular understandings of the economy, and the role of retailers in local communities.
Exploring new insights into retail history
Authors: Deutsch Tracey
Published: January 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to synthesize the papers written for this special issue, to suggest some themes and problems emerging from recent retail history, and to bring together work from a variety of subfields.

Design/methodology/approach

The essay surveys recent themes in retail history, using the contents of the special issue as a point of departure. It relies on secondary sources.

Findings

The articles in this issue highlight the importance of power relations and more formal political economy and government policy to retail firms. They also emphasize the importance of nearby institutions and populations to retailers. Taken as a whole, the pieces speak to recent interest among business historians in the social contexts and contingencies that shape firms and also in the history of failure, draw their attention to the importance of “the local” in business generally, and point to the possibilities of more work on very small firms, early American and non‐US (or globally framed US) retail and questions of women and gender. This work is part of a resurgence of interest by historians of all stripes in retail and its history; although reading across sub‐disciplinary lines can be challenging, the essay concludes by encouraging scholars of retail to do so.

Research limitations/implications

This essay should encourage work in understudied fields and particularly encourage broad reading among retail historians.

Originality/value

The essay introduces readers to literature they may not have encountered and articulates themes and questions emerging from new scholarship on retail.
The main constituents in managerial development
Authors: Ajuogu M.O.
Published: January 2010

This article intends to discuss the age‐long misunderstanding about the interpretation of education and training in the process of human development, with special reference to managers and executives. This interpretation, particularly in some developing societies, has raised two important questions:
Teaching Dinosaurs to Fly: The Role of the Chief E‐Commerce Officer
Authors: Foster Reginald
Published: January 2010

As e‐commerce capability becomes more and more integral to business success, a new executive is stepping in to lead the way.
Dotting the “I” in the Internet
Authors: Mullin Terence
Published: January 2010

Enterprise information portals and report‐based information management solutions can provide easy and cost‐effective presentation of information of any kind, especially ERP‐generated reports, to the desktops in an enterprise.
Knowledge Management: An Engine for Innovation
Authors: Boghani Ashok B.
Published: January 2010

Knowledge management has become a vital engine for innovation. Here's how several firms have adopted the mindset, tools, and behaviors to make it work for them.
An Atlas for Knowledge Innovation
Authors: Amidon Debra M. , Mahdjoubi Darius
Published: January 2010

To migrate from traditional business planning, which confines itself to analyzing the current situation, to planning an innovation strategy, which incorporates innovation and uncertainty, you need more than a map—you need an atlas.
Optimizing Your Knowledge Management Investments
Authors: Van Dissel Bart J.
Published: January 2010

The key to making wise investments in knowledge management tools and technologies lies in how you approach the challenge of building a knowledge management system.
Six Sigma: Perfection Is Possible in Meeting Customer Needs
Authors: DeFeo Joseph A.
Published: January 2010

Think your company is too small to implement Six Sigma? Or that it doesn't have the statistical analytical capabilities, or that it doesn't produce products or services suited to Six Sigma? Think again.
Time and Strategy
Authors: Preston David R.
Published: January 2010

The way in which organizations encourage individuals to make time investment decisions can influence internal culture and morale, improve individual and group performance, and create and sustain competitive advantage.
Rethinking Value in the Knowledge Economy
Authors: Allee Verna
Published: January 2010

The emerging business model of value creation includes both social and environmental capital as well as human, structural, and customer capital.
Performance and Stock Options: Oil and Water?
Authors: Knight James A.
Published: January 2010

Increasingly popular, stock options may reward managers more for investors' expectations of future performance than for current performance.
The Fast‐Track Approach to Changing Organizational Culture
Authors: Hagerup William E.
Published: January 2010

Despite the difficulties, leaders can change corporate cultures—and relatively quickly. The difference between years of frustrated preaching and rapid cultural change is in the approach you take.
Real‐Time Process Change Fuels High‐Level Business Benefits
Authors: Bloodsworth David
Published: January 2010

By capturing and applying knowledge to processes on a real‐time basis—rather than collecting and housing information in a repository and analyzing it after the fact—companies will achieve long‐term competitive advantage.
The Dynamics and Economics of Channel Marketing Systems
Authors: Lynn Frank
Published: January 2010

Understanding the economics and dynamics of channel marketing systems is the keystone to implementing successful channel marketing strategies.
Naked in the Sunlight
Authors: Rosenbaum Michael
Published: January 2010

In the Internet age, what you may consider your corporate secrets are exposed for all to see. To protect your privacy, decide what your secrets really should be‐and vigorously defend them.
The Components of a Real Estate Strategy
Authors: Clarke Jim , Orr Skip
Published: January 2010

Here's how one bi‐coastal company expanded its operations to meet its considerable growth spurt.
Strategies for Playing the Business and Societal Game
Authors: McGowan Richard A. , Mahon John F.
Published: January 2010

Game Theory has become an integral part of the business school curriculum, but the popular business press ignores it. Here's a crash course.
Building an Innovation Engine
Authors: Rigby Darrell K.
Published: January 2010

Here's a three‐part blueprint for building processes for innovation—disruptive innovation—into your organization.
Managing the Effects of Divestiture and Layoffs on Employees
Authors: Gopinath C.
Published: January 2010

How employees react to layoffs after a divestiture depend on how they perceive the fairness of the deal.
Leadership Development on the Job
Authors: Beavan Katie , Lockhart Terry , Michaelson Keith
Published: January 2010

Who has time to send senior managers off on leadership retreats anymore? Make them learn by doing.
Why Strategies Fall Apart: The CEO/Culture Disconnect
Authors: Schneider William E.
Published: January 2010

A strategy that doesn't fit the organizational culture will fail in the long term—and too many CEOs don't understand their own firms' cultures.
What Keeps CEOs Awake at Night?
Authors: Layton Sarah
Published: January 2010

Nine issues that the press overlooks.
Effective Diversity Management
Authors: Rodgers James O. , Hunter Maureen
Published: January 2010

Diversity management isn't about managing for a group identity. It's about managing for the individual.
Jump‐Starting High‐Performance Teams
Authors: Brenowitz Randi S.
Published: January 2010

Give teams clear goals, a model for success, and constant support.
A Snapshot of Best Practices in Supply Chain Management
Authors: Moncrieff Robert , Gailius Sheila , Ibarra Paul
Published: January 2010

Most tech companies place more emphasis on the operational aspects of their supply chain than on the overall strategy that governs them.
Leveraging Wireless Technologies
Authors: Nicolaisen Brad , Cowpland Michael C.J.
Published: January 2010

If you're looking to create a wireless communication strategy, you don't have to create new infrastructures to support it.
The Economics of Software Licensing
Authors: Fowler Newt
Published: January 2010

Here's a guide to valuing, pricing, and negotiating payment arrangements for software—whether you're the licensor or licensee.
Brand Architecture as a Strategic Weapon
Authors: Petromilli Michael , Berman Stephen
Published: January 2010

Companies commonly view brand architecture as primarily a tactical, one‐time exercise. But it can be the means to drive both greater top‐line growth and bottom‐line performance.
Diagnosing food allergy in children is a challenge
Authors: Ostblom E. , Nilsson C.
Published: January 2010

Cite this as: E. Ostblom and C. Nilsson, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2010 (40) 368;–369.
Anti-PR3 immune responses induce segmental and necrotizing glomerulonephritis
Authors: Primo V C , Marusic S , Franklin C C , Goldmann W H , Achaval C G , Smith R N , Arnaout M A , Nikolic B
Published: January 2010

Wegener's granulomatosis (WG) is a life-threatening autoimmune vasculitis that affects lungs, kidneys and other organs. A hallmark of WG is the presence of classic anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies (c-ANCA) against self-proteinase 3 (PR3). Little is known about the role of these antibodies and PR3-specific immune responses in disease development. In this study, we demonstrate that PR3-specific autoimmune responses are pathogenic in non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice with an impaired regulatory arm of the immune response. Immunization of autoimmunity prone NOD mice with rmPR3 (recombinant mouse PR3) in complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) resulted in high levels of c-ANCA, without detectable disease development. However, when splenocytes from these immunized mice were transferred into immunodeficient NOD–severe combined immunodeficiency (SCID) mice, the recipient mice developed vasculitis and severe segmental and necrotizing glomerulonephritis. No disease developed in NOD–SCID mice that received splenocytes from the CFA-alone-immunized donors (controls), indicating that disease development depends upon PR3-specific immune responses. In contrast to the pathology observed in NOD–SCID mice, no disease was observed when splenocytes from rmPR3-immunized C57BL/6 mice were transferred into immunodeficient C57BL/6-RAG-1–/– mice, suggesting that complex and probably multi-genetic factors play a role in the regulation of disease development.
REVIEW: Time lag between photosynthesis and carbon dioxide efflux from soil: a review of mechanisms and controls
Authors: KUZYAKOV YAKOV , GAVRICHKOVA OLGA
Published: January 2010

CO2 efflux from soil depends on the availability of organic substances respired by roots and microorganisms. Therefore, photosynthetic activity supplying carbohydrates from leaves to roots and rhizosphere is a key driver of soil CO2. This fact has been overlooked in most soil CO2 studies because temperature variations are highly correlated with solar radiation and mask the direct effect of photosynthesis on substrate availability in soil. This review highlights the importance of photosynthesis for rhizosphere processes and evaluates the time lag between carbon (C) assimilation and CO2 release from soil. Mechanisms and processes contributing to the lag were evaluated. We compared the advantages and shortcomings of four main approaches used to estimate this time lag: (1) interruption of assimilate flow from leaves into the roots and rhizosphere, and analysis of the decrease of CO2 efflux from soil, (2) time series analysis (TSA) of CO2 fluxes from soil and photosynthesis proxies, (3) analysis of natural δ13C variation in CO2 with photosynthesis‐related parameters or δ13C in the phloem and leaves, and (4) pulse labeling of plants in artificial 14CO2 or 13CO2 atmosphere with subsequent tracing of 14C or 13C in CO2 efflux from soil. We concluded that pulse labeling is the most advantageous approach. It allows clear evaluation not only of the time lag, but also of the label dynamics in soil CO2, and helps estimate the mean residence time of recently assimilated C in various above‐ and belowground C pools. The impossibility of tracing the phloem pressure–concentration waves by labeling approach may be overcome by its combination with approaches based on TSA of CO2 fluxes and its δ13C with photosynthesis proxies. Numerous studies showed that the time lag for grasses is about 12.5±7.5 (SD) h. The time lag for mature trees was much longer (∼4–5 days). Tree height slightly affected the lag, with increasing delay of 0.1 day m−1. By evaluating bottle‐neck processes responsible for the time lag, we conclude that, for trees, the transport of assimilates in phloem is the rate‐limiting step. However, it was not possible to predict the lag based on the phloem transport rates reported in the literature. We conclude that studies of CO2 fluxes from soil, especially in ecosystems with a high contribution of root‐derived CO2, should consider photosynthesis as one of the main drivers of C fluxes. This calls for incorporating photosynthesis in soil C turnover models.
Insights into the venom composition of the ectoparasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis from bioinformatic and proteomic studies
Authors: De Graaf D. C. , Aerts M. , Brunain M. , Desjardins C. A. , Jacobs F. J. , Werren J. H. , Devreese B.
Published: January 2010

With the Nasonia vitripennis genome sequences available, we attempted to determine the proteins present in venom by two different approaches. First, we searched for the transcripts of venom proteins by a bioinformatic approach using amino acid sequences of known hymenopteran venom proteins. Second, we performed proteomic analyses of crude N. vitripennis venom removed from the venom reservoir, implementing both an off‐line two‐dimensional liquid chromatography matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ ionization time‐of‐flight (2D‐LC‐MALDI‐TOF) mass spectrometry (MS) and a two‐dimensional liquid chromatography electrospray ionization Founer transform ion cyclotron resonance (2D‐LC‐ESI‐FT‐ICR) MS setup. This combination of bioinformatic and proteomic studies resulted in an extraordinary richness of identified venom constituents. Moreover, half of the 79 identified proteins were not yet associated with insect venoms: 16 proteins showed similarity only to known proteins from other tissues or secretions, and an additional 23 did not show similarity to any known protein. Serine proteases and their inhibitors were the most represented. Fifteen nonsecretory proteins were also identified by proteomic means and probably represent so‐called ‘venom trace elements’. The present study contributes greatly to the understanding of the biological diversity of the venom of parasitoid wasps at the molecular level.
Development of bacterial artificial chromosome library resources for parasitoid Hymenoptera (Nasonia vitripennis and Nasonia giraulti: Pteromalidae)
Authors: Muñoz‐Torres M. C. , Saski C. , Blackmon B. , Romero‐Severson J. , Werren J. H.
Published: January 2010

The species of the genus Nasonia possess qualities that make them excellent candidates for genetic and genomic studies. To increase the wealth of genomic resources for the genus we constructed publicly available bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) libraries for Nasonia vitripennis and Nasonia giraulti. Libraries have 36 864 clones each, empty‐vector contents of ∼2% and average insert sizes of 113.1 and 97.7 Kb, respectively, representing 12 and 11 genome equivalents. The N. vitripennis library was used for genome sequence assembly and in efforts at positional cloning of a developmental gene. The genome assembly of N. vitripennis is currently composed on 6181 un‐joined scaffolds. These BAC libraries can be used to identify and close regions between scaffolds of the genome assemblies of both species.
Organization, evolution and transcriptional profile of hexamerin genes of the parasitic wasp Nasonia vitripennis (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae)
Authors: Cristino A. S. , Nunes F. M. F. , Barchuk A. R. , Aguiar‐Coelho V. M. , Simões Z. L. P. , Bitondi M. M. G.
Published: January 2010

Hexamerins and prophenoloxidases (PPOs) proteins are members of the arthropod‐haemocyanin superfamily. In contrast to haemocyanin and PPO, hexamerins do not bind oxygen, but mainly play a role as storage proteins that supply amino acids for insect metamorphosis. We identified seven genes encoding hexamerins, three encoding PPOs, and one hexamerin pseudogene in the genome of the parasitoid wasp Nasonia vitripennis. A phylogenetic analysis of hexamerins and PPOs from this wasp and related proteins from other insect orders suggests an essentially order‐specific radiation of hexamerins. Temporal and spatial transcriptional profiles of N. vitripennis hexamerins suggest that they have physiological functions other than metamorphosis, which are arguably coupled with its lifestyle.
TEM characterization of the artefacts induced by FIB in austenitic stainless steel
Authors: ANDRZEJCZUK M. , PŁOCIŃSKI T. , ZIELIŃSKI W. , KURZYDŁOWSKI K.J.
Published: January 2010

Transmission electron microscopy studies of the artefacts in the form of network of dislocations induced by focused ion beam technique in austenitic stainless steel have been performed. Images of the microstructure with different diffraction vector g were analyzed. Transmission electron microscopy investigations of the artefacts induced by focused ion beam machining in the austenite revealed set of parallel dislocations with edge character located near the free surface of the thin foils.
Microstructure of electrodeposited NiFe/Cu multilayers
Authors: TOKARZ A. , WIECZOREK P. , LIS A.K. , MORGIEL J.
Published: January 2010

NiFe/Cu multilayer films have been electrodeposited potentiostatically on (001)‐oriented Si and polycrystalline Cu substrates by a single bath technique. Standard error of mean and energy dispersive X‐ray studies of single NiFe(Cu) layers allow us to establish the right deposition parameters for NiFe and Cu sublayer. Standard error of mean results reveal the layered structure of deposits for relatively thick bilayer thickness (ca. ∼200 nm). The modulated structure of NiFe/Cu multilayers with extremely thin bilayer thickness (nominal period Λ= 8 nm) was investigated by transmission electron microscope techniques. A columnar structure of the deposit with column diameter in the range from 10 to 30 nm was observed. These results are comparable with X‐ray diffraction measurements of crystallites size obtained by Scherer equation. The line scans acquired using EDS confirmed the layered structure of the deposit, but pointed towards possibility of intermixing of species from alternating sublayers especially in case of those with finer period.
Functional analysis of the superoxide dismutase family in Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Lambou Karine , Lamarre Claude , Beau Rémi , Dufour Nicolas , Latge Jean‐Paul
Published: January 2010

Reactive oxidant species produced by phagocytes have been reported as being involved in the killing of Aspergillus fumigatus. Fungal superoxide dismutases (SODs) that detoxify superoxide anions could be putative virulence factors for this opportunistic pathogen. Four genes encoding putative Sods have been identified in the A. fumigatus genome: a cytoplasmic Cu/ZnSOD (AfSod1p), a mitochondrial MnSOD (AfSod2p), a cytoplasmic MnSOD (AfSod3p) and AfSod4 displaying a MnSOD C‐terminal domain. During growth, AfSOD1 and AfSOD2 were highly expressed in conidia whereas AfSOD3 was only strongly expressed in mycelium. AfSOD4 was weakly expressed compared with other SODs. The deletion of AfSOD4 was lethal. Δsod1 and Δsod2 mutants showed a growth inhibition at high temperature and a hypersensitivity to menadione whereas the sod3 mutant had only a slight growth delay at high temperature. Multiple mutations had only an additive effect on the phenotype. The triple sod1/sod2/sod3 mutant was characterized by a delay in conidial germination, a reduced conidial survival during storage overtime, the highest sensitivity to menadione and an increased sensitivity to killing by alveolar macrophage of immunocompetent mice. In spite of these phenotypes, no significant virulence difference was observed between the triple mutant and parental strain in experimental murine aspergillosis models in immunocompromised animals.
The role of TNF‐α in eosinophilic inflammation associated with RSV bronchiolitis
Authors: Choi Jungi , Callaway Zak , Kim Hyo‐Bin , Fujisawa Takao , Kim Chang‐Keun
Published: January 2010

Choi J, Callaway Z, Kim HB, Fujisawa T, Kim CK. The role of TNF‐α in eosinophilic inflammation associated with RSV bronchiolitis.  Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: 474–479. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

The purpose of our study was to investigate whether tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α correlates with eosinophilic inflammation that occurs during a lower respiratory tract infection with the respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in children. Sixty children with RSV bronchiolitis (RSV group) and 20 healthy children with no respiratory symptoms (Control group) were enrolled. We measured the nasal lavage fluid (NLF) Th2 cytokine (IL‐5), proinflammatory cytokine (TNF‐α, IL‐8), eosinophil‐active cytokine [granulocyte‐macrophage colony stimulating factor (GM‐CSF), IFN‐γ], and eosinophil‐active chemokine (eotaxin, regulated on activation normal T cell excreted and secreted) levels for both groups. We also measured serum eosinophil‐degranulation product (eosinophil‐derived neurotoxin; EDN, eosinophil cationic protein; ECP) levels from RSV group. TNF‐α, IL‐8, GM‐CSF, IFN‐γ, and eotaxin levels were significantly higher in the RSV group compared with the Control group. TNF‐α correlated with GM‐CSF (r = 0.87, p < 0.0001), IFN‐γ (r = 0.92, p < 0.0001), eotaxin (r = 0.64, p < 0.0001), and IL‐8 (r = 0.84, p < 0.0001). TNF‐α may have an important role in eosinophilic inflammation of airways in children with RSV bronchiolitis.
Variation of dust endotoxin concentrations by location and time within homes of young children
Authors: Ownby Dennis R. , Peterson Edward L. , Williams L. Keoki , Zoratti Edward M. , Wegienka Ganesa R. , Woodcroft Kimberley J. , Joseph Christine L. M. , Johnson Christine C.
Published: January 2010

Ownby DR, Peterson EL, Williams LK, Zoratti EM, Wegienka GR, Woodcroft KJ, Joseph CLM, Johnson CC. Variation of dust endotoxin concentrations by location and time within homes of young children. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: 533–540. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Endotoxin may affect the development of allergic disease in childhood but little is known about endotoxin variation within homes. We sought to determine endotoxin concentration agreement within homes when five locations were each sampled twice 5 months apart. Endotoxin was measured using the recombinant Limulus factor C assay in dust samples from 585 homes of children enrolled in a prospective study and again in 335 homes 5 months later. The five locations sampled in each home were the child’s bedroom floor, child’s bed, mother’s bedroom floor, mother’s bed and living room floor. Concentrations of 4 allergens (Can f 1, Fel d 1, Der f 1 and Bla g 2) were also measured from the child’s bedroom floor. In pair‐wise comparisons, endotoxin concentrations in all locations within each home were significantly different from all other locations (p < 0.001) except for the child’s and mother’s bedroom floors (p = 0.272). Spearman correlations between endotoxin concentrations from the different locations were all statistically significant (p < 0.05) but of modest magnitude (r = 0.24–0.54). Similarly, correlations at each site over the 5 month observation interval were statistically significant but modest (r = 0.17–0.44). Pets and season of the year did not affect correlations, although correlations were lower if the floor was not carpeted. Endotoxin concentrations at all locations were minimally correlated with allergen concentrations in both negative and positive directions (r = −0.12 to 0.12). We conclude that a single measurement of endotoxin from a home dust sample provides an imprecise estimate of dust endotoxin concentrations in other locations within the home and over a relatively short observation interval.
Maximizing Business Returns to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR): The Role of CSR Communication
Authors: Du Shuili , Bhattacharya C.B. , Sen Sankar
Published: January 2010

By engaging in corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities, companies can not only generate favorable stakeholder attitudes and better support behaviors (e.g. purchase, seeking employment, investing in the company), but also, over the long run, build corporate image, strengthen stakeholder–company relationships, and enhance stakeholders' advocacy behaviors. However, stakeholders' low awareness of and unfavorable attributions towards companies' CSR activities remain critical impediments in companies' attempts to maximize business benefits from their CSR activities, highlighting a need for companies to communicate CSR more effectively to stakeholders. In light of these challenges, a conceptual framework of CSR communication is presented and its different aspects are analyzed, from message content and communication channels to company‐ and stakeholder‐specific factors that influence the effectiveness of CSR communication.
Remittance Activity among Brazilians in the US and Canada
Authors: Goza Franklin , Ryabov Igor
Published: January 2010

This comparative study uses data collected in 1990 and 1991 to examine the remittance behavior of Brazilians who had recently arrived in Canada and the United States. These data permit an examination of remittance activity among immigrants relatively soon after their arrival in a pair of host destinations. Prior to contrasting the remittance activity of these newly arrived immigrants, we first document the high degree of similarity between the two groups at their time of arrival; a point that becomes important when contrasting their divergent outcomes. Next, this study contributes to the research literature on micro‐level remittance patterns and behaviors by focusing on three policy relevant dependant variables. More specifically, multivariate analyses are undertaken to examine those individual‐level factors that best determine: (1) who remits, (2) how much they remit, and (3) when funds are remitted for productive purposes. Because the data analyzed were collected with the same instrument, results are then contrasted for the two destinations.

One major finding to emerge from this cross‐national study was that even immigrants who are extremely similar on all socio‐economic measures at time of arrival may soon manifest divergent outcomes due to their distinctive country of destination experiences. Consequently, although some common predictors were found in both locales, there were far fewer than expected. For example, family obligation variables were usually significant in the predicted directions for the United States data, while this was almost never the case for the Canadian data. Furthermore, some variables often assumed to predict remittance behavior were insignificant in both locations. This study concludes by considering possible explanations for these results, as well as discussing the need for additional theoretical work and data collection in the area of immigrant remittance activity.
Weichselian interstadials at Riipiharju, northern Sweden – interpretation of vegetation and climate from fossil and modern pollen records
Authors: HÄTTESTRAND MARTINA , ROBERTSSON ANN‐MARIE
Published: January 2010

Hättestrand, M. & Robertsson, A.‐M. 2010: Weichselian interstadials at Riipiharju, northern Sweden – interpretation of vegetation and climate from fossil and modern pollen records. Boreas, 10.1111/j.1502‐3885.2009.00129.x. ISSN 0300‐9483.

The most complete records of Weichselian ice‐free conditions in northern Sweden have been retrieved from kettleholes in the Riipiharju esker. In an earlier study, the Riipiharju I core was described as containing two Weichselian interstadials and Riipiharju was chosen as type site for the second Weichselian interstadial in northern Sweden. Here, we present a palynological investigation of two new sediment cores (Riipiharju II and III) retrieved from Riipiharju. Together, the new cores comprise a late cold part of the first Weichselian interstadial recorded in northeastern Sweden (Tärendö I, earlier correlated with Peräpohjola in Finland) as well as a long sequence of the second Weichselian interstadial (Tärendö II, earlier named Tärendö). The results indicate that the climate during deposition of the Tärendö II sequence was more variable than earlier suggested. According to the present interpretation it was relatively warm in the early part of Tärendö II; thereafter a long cold phase persisted, and finally the climate was warmer again in the late part of Tärendö II. The warm phases are characterized by Betula‐dominant pollen assemblages, while the cold phase is characterized by high percentages of Artemisia and Gramineae pollen. Since there is still no firm chronology established of the interstadials in northeastern Sweden, two possible correlations are discussed; either Tärendö I and II are correlated with Brörup (MIS 5c) and Odderade (MIS 5a), or, perhaps more likely, they are correlated with Odderade and early Middle Weichselian (MIS 3) time.
Recovery of Endemic Dragonflies after Removal of Invasive Alien Trees
Authors: SAMWAYS MICHAEL J. , SHARRATT NORMA J.
Published: January 2010

Abstract:  Because dragonflies are very sensitive to alien trees, we assessed their response to large‐scale restoration of riparian corridors. We compared three types of disturbance regime—alien invaded, cleared of alien vegetation, and natural vegetation (control)—and recorded data on 22 environmental variables. The most significant variables in determining dragonfly assemblages were percentage of bank cover and tree canopy cover, which indicates the importance of vegetation architecture for these dragonflies. This finding suggests that it is important to restore appropriate marginal vegetation and sunlight conditions. Recovery of dragonfly assemblages after the clearing of alien trees was substantial. Species richness and abundance at restored sites matched those at control sites. Dragonfly assemblage patterns reflected vegetation succession. Thus, initially eurytopic, widespread species were the main beneficiaries of the removal of alien trees, and stenotopic, endemic species appeared after indigenous vegetation recovered over time. Important indicator species were the two national endemics (Allocnemis leucosticta and Pseudagrion furcigerum), which, along with vegetation type, can be used to monitor return of overall integrity of riparian ecology and to make management decisions. Endemic species as a whole responded positively to restoration, which suggests that indigenous vegetation recovery has major benefits for irreplaceable and widespread generalist species.
Risk Factors for Implantable Defibrillator Lead Fracture in a Recalled and a Nonrecalled Lead
Authors: BEN MORRISON T. , REA ROBERT F. , HODGE DAVID O. , CRUSAN DANIEL , KOESTLER CELESTE , ASIRVATHAM SAMUEL J. , BRADLEY DAVID , SHEN WIN K. , MUNGER THOMAS M. , HAMMILL STEPHEN C. , FRIEDMAN PAUL A.
Published: January 2010

Risk Factors for ICD Lead Fracture. Introduction: The Medtronic Sprint Fidelis® implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) lead was “recalled” in October 2007 after 268,000 implants worldwide due to increased failure risk. Manufacturer suggested monitoring has not been shown effective at preventing adverse events. Only limited data exist regarding clinical predictors of Fidelis® lead fracture. We sought to identify risk factors for Fidelis® fracture to guide clinical monitoring and compare its performance with a control lead.

Methods:
Fractured lead cases were retrospectively reviewed for demographic data, implant technique, radiographic appearance and clinical presentation was analyzed. Lead survival was compared using Kaplan‐Meir curves.

Results:
Study patients (n = 1314) experienced 18 Fidelis® and 6 Quattro™ lead fractures. Patients with failed Fidelis® leads were younger than those with surviving leads (49.5 vs 64.6 years, P = 0.0066). Fidelis® lead fractures often occurred around the time of physical activity. No other measured demographic or technique related factors were associated with lead fracture. Fidelis® leads had significantly decreased survival compared with Quattro™ leads (89.3 vs 98.9% at 30 months). Patients less than 50 years old had significantly decreased lead survival compared with those older than 50 in both Fidelis® (79.6% vs 96.5% at 24 months) and Quattro™ (93.4 vs 99.8%, P < 0.001 at 24 months) leads.

Conclusions:
Patients under age 50, with either Fidelis® or Quattro™ ICD leads, are at increased risk of lead fracture compared with patients over 50, particularly around the time of intense physical activity. Aggressive monitoring and advisory programming appears warranted in patients with Fidelis® leads as well as especially in younger patients. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 671‐677, June 2010)
The Interactive Effects of Chronic Pain, Guilt, and Perfectionism on Work Outcomes
Authors: Hochwarter Wayne A. , Byrne Zinta S.
Published: January 2010

Two studies were conducted examining the interactive effects of chronic pain, perceived perfectionism (e.g., self‐ and socially prescribed), and guilt on job tension and job satisfaction. It was hypothesized that chronic pain would have its most adverse effects on these work outcomes when concurrently coupled with high levels of perceived perfectionism and guilt. In both studies, the results supported the interaction effect of Chronic Pain × Socially Prescribed Perfectionism × Guilt on tension and satisfaction in the expected direction. As predicted, the results also indicated a Chronic Pain × Guilt × Self‐Oriented Perfectionism interaction on job tension. Implications for theory and practice, strengths and limitations, and avenues for future research are provided.
Imagery Use and Self‐Determined Motivations in a Community Sample of Exercisers and Non‐Exercisers1
Authors: Hall Craig R. , Rodgers Wendy M. , Wilson Philip M. , Norman Paul
Published: January 2010

This study examined the patterns of imagery use and motivational self‐determination, and the relationships between them in regular exercisers (RE), non‐exercisers who intend to exercise (NE‐I), and non‐exercisers who do not intend to exercise (NE‐N). A survey was conducted through the random sampling of a large population. The NE‐N group reported using the same amount of imagery as the other 2 groups. NE‐N participants were the least and RE participants the most self‐determined, with NE‐I participants in between. The patterns of association among imagery and self‐determination were different for the NE‐N participants than the other 2 groups. It was concluded that imagery interventions that might be successful with RE and NE‐I participants are unlikely to be effective with NE‐N participants.
How swift are swifts Apus apus?
Authors: Henningsson Per , Johansson L. Christoffer , Hedenström Anders
Published: January 2010

Swifts Apus apus are renowned for their fast flight manner which has fascinated people in all times. However, previous studies of swifts in flight during migration and roosting flights have shown that the birds operate over a narrow range of flight speeds compared with most other birds studied. In this study we have focused on the special flight behavior often called ‘screaming parties’. During these flights the birds appear to reach very high speeds and therefore we used a stereo high speed camera setup to measure the flight speeds of the birds during this behavior with high accuracy. The birds were found to fly at much higher speeds during ‘screaming parties’ than during migration or roosting, on average twice as fast, 20.9 ms−1 (±5.1 ms−1) in horizontal speed. The highest record was 31.1 ms−1 which is the highest measured yet for a swift in self powered flight. Furthermore, the birds were performing steep climbing flights, on average 4.0 ms−1 (±2.8 ms−1) in vertical velocity. A clear trade‐off between horizontal speed and vertical speed was found, suggesting that the birds are operating at their maximum.
IS EDUCATIONAL POLICY MAKING RATIONAL — AND WHAT WOULD THAT MEAN, ANYWAY?
Authors: Bredo Eric
Published: January 2010

In Moderating the Debate: Rationality and the Promise of American Education, Michael Feuer raises concerns about the consequences of basing educational policy on the model of rational choice drawn from economics. Policy making would be better and more realistic, he suggests, if it were based on a newer procedural model drawn from cognitive science. In this essay Eric Bredo builds on Feuer's analysis by offering a more systematic critique of the traditional model of rationality that Feuer criticizes, a more critical evaluation of the procedural model that he favors, and a recommendation that the situational model he does not consider may have some benefits over both. This analysis shows that the traditional model presupposes an actor that cannot learn or develop. While the actor in the procedural model can learn, Bredo contends that it cannot develop, that is, it cannot outgrow its initial assumptions and values. Only the situational model allows for learning and development, important in a model to be used in the field of education. Bredo also considers in his analysis the social‐relational assumptions built into the traditional, procedural, and situational models and the likely ethical consequences of acting on them.
A RETURN TO LOVE IN WILLIAM JAMES AND JEAN‐LUC MARION
Authors: Rocha Samuel
Published: January 2010

Abstract: In this essay Samuel Rocha primarily addresses, and challenges, the modern conception of reason and the lowly place of intuition, feeling, and love in what has become traditional philosophy and education. Drawing upon the rich thought of William James and Jean‐Luc Marion, Rocha introduces the reader to a certain harmony between their ideas, most evident in their mutual appeal to philosophy to return to a broader understanding of reason that celebrates the role of intuition and, above all, love. Rocha concludes by relating the philosophical critiques of modern rationalism offered by James and Marion to the current state of education, especially in the United States.
ONE CASE–ONE SPECIALIZED JUDGE: WHY COURTS HAVE AN OBLIGATION TO MANAGE ALIENATION AND OTHER HIGH‐CONFLICT CASES
Authors: Martinson Donna J.
Published: January 2010

This article challenges the traditional approach to alienation and other high‐conflict cases in which many different generalist judges deal with the case. The objectives of the judicial process, dealing with cases in a just, timely, and affordable way that instils confidence in the public and litigants, cannot be met unless high‐conflict cases are actively managed by one specialist family law judge. Allowing parents in high‐conflict cases to decide when and how often their case should come before the court exacerbates the negative effects of the litigation on children. This article concludes that, unless the litigation is properly managed by specialist judges, the justice system unintentionally causes harm to children.
TNF‐α promoter polymorphisms in multiple sclerosis: no association with −308 and −238 alleles, but the −857 alleles in associated with the disease in Turkish patients
Authors: Akcali A. , Pehlivan S. , Pehlivan M. , Sever T. , Akgul P. , Neyal M.
Published: January 2010

Dysregulation in the expression of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines is one of the milestones in multiple sclerosis (MS) development and progression. Tumour necrosis factor (TNF‐α), a proinflammatory cytokine is believed to play an important role in MS pathogenesis. The objective of this study is to investigate the association between TNF‐α promoter region (TNF‐α−238, −308 and −857) and susceptibility to MS and clinical course of the disease. Eighty‐six relapsing remitting MS patients and 150 sex‐, age‐ and ethnic‐matched controls were enrolled in the study. Genotyping was performed by PCR‐RFLP method. We observed a statistically significant increase in TNF‐α 857 CC genotype in MS patients than controls (P < 0.001) while TNF‐α 857 CT genotype showed a significant negative correlation with MS patients (P = 0.033). No differences in the distribution of the TNF‐α−238 and −308 alleles were observed. None of the three polymorphisms (−238, −308 and −857) did not show relation with disease duration, Expanded Disability Status Scale or age of onset. On the other hand, significant difference of TNF −857 CC genotype was identified with the low disease index (P = 0.025). Although the study group is small, the results indicate that TNF‐α 857 CC genotype may cause susceptibility to MS in the Turkish population.
Tight orbit syndrome: a previously unrecognized cause of open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Lee Graham A. , Ritch Robert , Liang Steve Y.‐W. , Liebmann Jeffrey M. , Dubois Philip , Bastian‐Jordan Matthew , Lehmann Kate , Rojanapongpun Prin
Published: January 2010

Purpose:  To describe a new syndrome of tight orbit and intractable glaucoma with a poor visual prognosis.

Methods:  A retrospective observational case series of six patients seen at two centres between 2001 and 2007 assessing intraocular pressure (IOP), best‐corrected visual acuity and visual field.

Results:  Three men and three women, ranging in age at diagnosis from 14 to 53 years, demonstrated similar orbital features and progressive visual field loss despite intensive management with medication and laser and operative surgery. Highest IOPs ranged from 30 to 50 mmHg. Trabeculectomy and/or glaucoma drainage devices were attempted in five patients but all failed. One patient underwent orbital decompression with achievement of IOP control. Final IOP at last follow‐up was variable; only two patients achieved IOP in the normal range, with the rest ranging from 25 to 40 mmHg. All patients had advanced visual field loss.

Conclusion:  Tight orbit syndrome presents a serious clinical challenge. Despite maximum medical therapy and surgical intervention IOP is difficult to control, resulting in progressive visual field loss.