bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular Characterization of the Rehydration Process in the Resurrection Plant Craterostigma plantagineum
Authors: Bernacchia G. , Salamini F. , Bartels D. 
Published: August 2016

Abstract
The resurrection plant Craterostigma plantagineum is unique among higher plants because it is able to survive a desiccation treatment. For this reason it has been used as a model system for the analysis of the molecular mechanisms of desiccation tolerance. Many transcripts and proteins are expressed de novo during dehydration. This paper describes the molecular events that occur during the rehydration process of dried C. plantagineum plants. Changes in gene expression patterns were first analyzed by in vivo labeling and in vitro translation experiments. In a second set of experiments steady-state mRNA levels were monitored using specific cDNA clones. The experiments indicated three major changes on the molecular level during rehydration: the dehydration-specific gene products disappeared during an early phase of rehydration, a small number of rehydration-specific transcripts were synthesized around 12 to 15 h after the onset of rewatering, and hydration-related gene products appeared concomitantly. The gene expression patterns during rehydration are discussed with respect to the possible roles of the gene products.
Roots of Iron-Efficient Maize also Absorb Phytosiderophore-Chelated Zinc
Authors: von Wiren N. , Marschner H. , Romheld V. 
Published: August 2016

Abstract
To investigate the recognition of Zn-phytosiderophores by the putative Fe-phytosiderophore transporter in maize (Zea mays L.) roots, short-term uptake of 65Zn-labeled phytosiderophores was compared in the Fe-efficient maize cultivar Alice and the maize mutant ys1 carrying a defect in Fe-phytosiderophore uptake. In ys1, uptake and translocation rates of Zn from Zn-phytosiderophores were one-half of those in Alice, but no genotypical difference was found in Zn uptake and translocation from other Zn-binding forms. In ys1 and in tendency also in Alice, Zn uptake decreased with increasing stability constant of the chelate in the order: ZnSO4 [greater than or equal to] Zn-desferrioxamine &gt; Zn-phytosiderophores &gt; Zn-EDTA. Adding a 500-fold excess of free phytosiderophores over Zn to the uptake solution depressed Zn uptake in ys1 almost completely. In uptake studies with double-labeled 65Zn-14C-phytosiderophores, ys1 absorbed the phytosiderophore at similar rates when supplied as a Zn-chelate or the free ligand. By contrast, in Alice 14C-phytosiderophore uptake from the Zn-chelate was 2.8-fold higher than from the free ligand, suggesting that Alice absorbed the complete Zn-phytosiderophore complex via the putative plasma membrane transporter for Fe-phytosiderophores. We propose two pathways for the uptake of Zn from Zn-phytosiderophores in grasses, one via the transport of the free Zn cation and the other via the uptake of nondissociated Zn-phytosiderophores.
Competence for Regeneration during Tobacco Internodal Development (Involvement of Plant Age, Cell Elongation Stage, and Degree of Polysomaty)
Authors: Gilissen LJW. , van Staveren M. J. , Hakkert J. C. , Smulders MJM. 
Published: August 2016

Abstract
This study deals with internodal development in vegetative plants of Nicotiana tabacum cv Samsun NN and its reflection in changes of the cellular competence for regeneration. During elongation of the internodes, the cells of the epidermis, subepidermis, and cortex exclusively expanded and increased their DNA content cell type specifically, generally from 2C to 4C. Cells with the 8C DNA content were found mainly among the cortex cells of mature internodes. The frequency of shoot regeneration (directly from subepidermal and epidermal cells together) on thin cell layer explants increased to an optimum along with elongation of the internodes and decreased in mature internodes along with aging. The frequencies of diploid shoots among the regenerants from elongating and mature internodes were high (88 and 75% on the average, respectively), indicating that most cells that had achieved the 4C DNA content generally retained the G2 phase of the diploid cell cycle. Shoots regenerated from explants of young plant material mainly had a vitrified appearance. The occurrence of this type of malformed growth was already determined by the physiological state of the cells in the internode and did not interfere with their acquisition of competence. Vitrification was unrelated to the degree of polysomaty of the internodal tissue. Using the occurrence of tetraploid root regenerants (from intermediate cortex-derived callus), up to a frequency of 50%, we show that the position in the plant where a majority of the 4C cortex cells switched to the G1 phase of the tetraploid cell cycle was at the transition from the elongation phase to the mature phase.
Differential Expression of Two Endo-1,4-β-Glucanase Genes in Pericarp and Locules of Wild-Type and Mutant Tomato Fruit
Authors: Gonzalez-Bosch C. , Brummell D. A. , Bennett A. B. 
Published: August 2016

Abstract
The mRNA accumulation of two endo-1,4-β-D-glucanase genes, Cel1 and Cel2, was examined in the pericarp and locules throughout the development of normal tomato (Lycopersicon esculentum) fruit and the ripening-impaired mutants rin and Nr. Both Cel1 and Cel2 were expressed transiently at the earliest stages of fruit development during a period corresponding to cell division and early cell expansion. In the pericarp, the mRNA abundance of both genes increased markedly at the breaker stage; the level of Cel1 mRNA decreased later in ripening, and that of Cel2 increased progressively. Cel2 mRNA levels also increased at the breaker stage in locules but after initial locule liquefaction was already complete. In rin fruit mRNA abundance of Cel1 was reduced and Cel2 was virtually absent, whereas in Nr Cel1 was expressed at wild-type levels and Cel2 was reduced. In wild-type fruit ethylene treatment slightly promoted the mRNA accumulation of both genes. In rin fruit ethylene treatment strongly increased the mRNA abundance of Cel1 to an extent greater than in wild-type fruit, but Cel2 mRNA was absent even after ethylene treatment. These two endo-1,4-β-D-glucanase genes, therefore, do not show coordinated expression during fruit development and are subject to distinct regulatory control. These results suggest that the product of the Cel2 gene contributes to ripening-associated cell-wall changes.
Factors influencing the intention to use information service mashups
Authors: Yan Weiwei , Deng Shengli , Zhang Yin 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
This study aims to examine the factors influencing the adoption intention of information service mashup in digital library (DL). The study is an empirical study on DLs in China.

Design/methodology/approach
This paper employs the theory of information service mashup as its theoretical background and applies it to the field of DL to develop the measurement model which is based on technology acceptance model (TAM). A structured questionnaire was developed including the demographic information, the advantages of information service mashup in DL and the Likert evaluation of each construct. As a result, of 303 questionnaires distributed among DL users, 281 were remained as acceptable answers. The data were processed and analyzed with the aid of the SPSS 20.0 and SmartPLS 2.0.

Findings
The results show that beyond perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use, both perceived integration and perceived risk have direct impacts on user’s intention to adopt information service mashup in DL. Perceived integration has the dramatic positive effects, while perceived risk negatively correlates to adoption intention. Moreover, perceived integration and individualization have positive impacts on perceived ease of use, while network externality positively influences perceived usefulness.

Originality/value
Information service mashup is still a relatively new technology in DL. There were few theoretical and empirical studies that examine the user adoption behaviour of the service. This study contributes to existing information service mashup application studies by modifying and extending TAM. The results would help the DL gain a deeper understanding of the factors affecting DL user adoption of information service mashup.
Usability and evaluation of a library mobile web site
Authors: ChanLin Lih-Juan , Hung Wei-Hsiang 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
The purpose of this study is to develop and evaluate the use of a library mobile website at a university library. This paper aims to present the approach adopted to investigate users’ reactions to the new mobile platform. A usability test was also conducted to examine its effectiveness.

Design/methodology/approach
Mobile websites for academic libraries were first reviewed prior to identifying the functions and elements to be included. To assess the intended design purpose, the usability of the design was examined through a comparison of the mobile website and the full PC website used by 50 students to accomplish a set of search tasks. A questionnaire survey was used to assess 336 students’ responses regarding various criteria including learnability, control, presentation and efficiency.

Findings
The usability test that was conducted before the mobile Web was formally released indicated that the students using it finished more search tasks (p < 0.001), and were more efficient in completing search tasks than they were using the PC website (p < 0.001). Data from 336 questionnaire responses also indicated the students’ positive reactions to the developed mobile system in four defined facets (mean >= 4.0).

Research limitations/implications
The difficulty of recruiting volunteers and the small number of subjects who participated was also a major limitation experienced in this study. Replications or use of different measurements might be needed in future research to confirm the result.

Practical implications
In this study, a library mobile website was developed, tested and evaluated by users. Currently, the library mobile website is being implemented in the university. On-going revisions will continue to improve its effectiveness and efficiency for information retrieval.

Social implications
It is expected that through the library mobile services, a ubiquitous learning environment can be provided to students to fulfil their academic and leisure needs.

Originality/value
Summative evaluation of the mobile system revealed the students’ positive reactions to a set of predetermined criteria in various dimensions, including: learnability, control, presentation and efficiency.
Research on user needs for mobile information services in Chinese university libraries
Authors: Zhao Yang , Deng Shengli , Gao Ting , Zhou Ruoxin 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
This paper aims to investigate the service demand of existing users and potential users for mobile information services provided by university libraries in China. The primary objective is to explore the impact of user experience on user needs, which is conducted by a comparison between two user groups over their needs from three aspects – service function, service mode and information content.

Design/methodology/approach
Data were collected from 353 library users from ten Chinese universities via questionnaires. Based on the user needs model, three dimensions of user needs were established for mobile information services and 26 measurement items were generated through a review of the literature. Furthermore, based on frequency analysis, independent samples t-test and the calculation of need rate, the demand differences in mobile information services between existing and potential users were explored.

Findings
Significant differences existed in the needs for service functions and service modes of mobile information services between existing users and potential users. Existing users cared more about such characteristics as intelligence, personalization and the variety of mobile services. Potential users, in contrast, concerned themselves more with the usability of mobile services and similarity to traditional information services. These two user groups showed little difference in the needs for information content, as they both have strict requirements for specialty, richness in and quality of information resources in mobile network environments.

Originality/value
Previous research on user needs for mobile libraries services has been primarily conducted from the perspectives of existing users. This study, however, compared the needs of existing and potential users based on their previous experiences, which can help libraries to know better what their users need and improve the quality of mobile information services to meet those needs. This can also make existing users more willing to use the services and cultivate the usage habits of potential users at the same time.
Logistics services and Lean Six Sigma implementation: a case study
Authors: Gutierrez-Gutierrez Leopoldo , de Leeuw Sander , Dubbers Ruud 
Published: August 2016

PurposeThis paper aims to analyze the application of Lean Six Sigma (LSS) framework for supporting continuous improvement (CI) in logistics services. Both the lean philosophy and the Six Sigma methodology have become two of the most important initiatives for CI in organizations. The combination of both alternatives – LSS – brings significant benefits for companies applying this method, and its influence in logistics services can be relevant.Design/methodology/approachA case study on the logistics services of a large consumer electronics company is performed. In this sector, high quality in logistics services is crucial. Using within-case and cross-case analyses, the paper discusses the implementation of LSS in two internal logistics processes.FindingsThe paper identifies important implementation aspects when applying LSS to logistics services, such as CI structure, strategic analysis, cross-functional teams and process management. Furthermore, the paper discusses the potential in logistics services of the DMAIC (define, measure, analyze, improve and control) approach and tools such as value stream mapping, SIPOC (supplier, input, process, output, and customer) and process mapping.Practical implicationsThe paper analyzes two logistics processes where LSS has been applied – a payment process and a request-to-ship process. The analysis of both processes offers relevant information about organizational implementation in a logistics services environment about process improvement and about the use of LSS tools.Originality/valueFirst, this paper addresses the gap in literature about LSS and logistics’ activities. Furthermore, the case company, with more than 9,000 employees and distributing its products to more than 100 countries, constitutes a valuable source of information to obtain insights into the implications of implementing LSS in logistics services.
Systematic literature review of critical success factors for continuous improvement projects
Authors: Gonzalez Aleu Fernando , Van Aken Eileen M. 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
The aim of this paper is to synthesize and assess the published literature relating to critical success factors for continuous improvement projects (CIPs).

Design/methodology/approach
A systematic literature review (SLR) was conducted to obtain the most relevant papers from four platforms: EBSCOhost, Engineering Village, ProQuest and Web of Science. The literature was assessed and synthesized based on analysis of characteristics relating to publications, authors and the content of publications.

Findings
From the SLR, 98 publications were identified and analyzed. One primary finding is that this research area appears to demonstrate characteristics of an emerging field, not yet well established across all relevant aspects. Second, a comprehensive set of 53 factors were extracted from the publications identified. These factors were analyzed according to frequency in the published literature. This set of factors can be used in future empirical research to develop a more complete understanding of the relative contribution of each to influencing CIP success.

Research limitations/implications
The SLR methodology does not guarantee that all of the publications related to a given research area will be identified; however, the researchers took different actions to mitigate this limitation. Further, not all relevant information from the publication set could be included in this work because of space constraints.

Originality/value
To the authors’ knowledge, this paper presents the most comprehensive list of factors, and associated definitions, relevant to CIP success.
The double-edge effect of retailers’ cause-related marketing
Authors: Mimouni Chaabane Aïda , Parguel Béatrice 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
– Cause-related marketing – linking product sales with donations to a cause – are popular with consumers because they produce warm-glow feelings (the positive route). But when they involve large donations, they may trigger consumer scepticism, reducing the warm glow (the negative route). Drawing on the elaboration likelihood model, the purpose of this paper is to examine whether large donations in cause-related marketing can produce consumer scepticism and reduce the warm-glow effect and positive attitude towards the retailer.

Design/methodology/approach
– An experiment varying the donation size (large, medium, small) in a cause-related marketing offer run by an office equipment retailer is set up. Hypotheses are tested using bootstrapping regression analyses.

Findings
– The negative route has the greater effect: scepticism towards the offer mediates the relationship between donation size and the warm glow. Furthermore, scepticism towards a large donation is higher (lower) for respondents scoring low (high) on altruism and high (low) on familiarity with cause-related marketing.

Practical implications
– When using cause-related marketing, retailers should choose their features and target audience carefully in order to reduce scepticism, e.g., small donations should be offered in promotions targeting consumers who are familiar with cause-related marketing and show low altruism.

Originality/value
– This study contributes to the recent research examining the negative effects of cause-related marketing by explicitly conceptualising and measuring scepticism towards cause-related marketing. The findings are also valuable because they indicate the importance of a shift in focus, away from the conventional question of cause-related marketing effectiveness to the more specific and under-investigated problem of the appropriate core target consumers.
Religion and earnings: evidence from Germany
Authors: Sinnewe Elisabeth , Kortt Michael , Steen Todd 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to estimate the association between religious affiliation and the rate of return to human capital for German men and women.

Design/methodology/approach
– This paper employs data from the 1997, 2003, 2007 and 2011 waves of the German Socio-Economic Panel for German men and women in full-time employment between the age of 25 and 54. The association between religious affiliation and wages was estimated using a conventional human capital model.

Findings
– This paper finds that Catholic men (women) received a wage premium of 4 per cent (3 per cent) relative to their Protestant counterparts, even after controlling for an extensive range of demographic, economic and social characteristics.

Originality/value
– The study contributes to the literature by providing – to the best of the authors’ knowledge – the first results on the wage premium received by Catholic men and women in the German labour market.
Institutional environment, political connections of partial state ownership, and performance
Authors: Song Zengji , Nahm Abraham , Yang Jun 
Published: August 2016

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to examine whether substantial differences in institutional environment in China lead to different levels of demand for political connection.

Design/methodology/approach
– Using a data set of 296 listed private sector enterprises (PSEs) in China, the authors empirically investigate the effects of institutional environmental factors upon political connection.

Findings
– The authors find that the lower the level of regional property right protection, the more powerful the government intervention, and the slower the economic development, the more motivated the PSEs were to build relationship with the government via partial state ownership. However, the degree of local corruption was not correlated with the demand for political connection. The authors also find that partial state ownership in PSEs exerted a positive effect on performance.

Originality/value
– Deviating from previous literature that has been mostly concerned about the economic consequences to firms caused by political connections, this paper examines the reasons for political connection among Chinese PSEs. The authors introduce a new dimension of political connection, namely, partial state ownership in PSEs.
Credit constraints and their impact on farm household welfare
Authors: Tran Minh Chau , Gan Christopher E.C. , Hu Baiding 
Published: August 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to identify factors affecting formal credit constraint status of rural farm households in Vietnam’s North Central Coast (NCC) region.Design/methodology/approach– Using the direct elicitation method (DEM), the authors consider both internal and external credit rationing.Findings– Empirical evidences confirm the importance of household head’s age, gender and education to household’s likelihood of being credit constrained. In addition, households who have advantages in farm land size, labour resources and non-farm income are less likely to be credit constrained. Poor households are observed to remain restricted by formal credit institutions. Results from the endogenous switching regression model suggest that credit constraints negatively impact household’s consumption per capita and informal credit can act as a substitute to mitigate the negative influence of formal credit constraints.Research limitations/implications– One limitation arises from the usage of the DEM to identify credit constrained households. The method cannot detect effective and ineffective constraints. Another limitation is the inability of cross-section data to capture long-term impacts of credit constraints on household welfare. Finally, causes of credit constraints from the lender’s view cannot be observed.Practical implications– The results suggest that it is necessary to enhance the credit allocation regime to reduce the transaction cost and provide target households with sufficient credit. It should be emphasized that high transaction cost and the mismatch between credit demand and supply stemming from information asymmetry. The government can help formal financial institutions to reduce information cost by encouraging the active role of social organizations such as Women Unions, Youth Unions and Veteran Unions in bridging rural farm households with formal lenders.Originality/value– There are limited studies focusing on determinants of credit constraints and their impacts on rural farm households. To the best of the knowledge, there is no study evaluating the impact of credit constraints on rural farm household welfare particularly in Vietnam. In addition, the studies related to credit constraints only considered full quantity rationing (households applied for the loan but were rejected), omitting the case of partly quantity rationing (loan obtained by the borrowers is less than their demand) and self-rationing.