bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Competence or flexibility? Survival and growth implications of competitive strategy preferences among small US businesses
Authors: E. Armstrong Craig 
Published: November 2013

Purpose– Research in strategic management has provided a wealth of contributions to the study of competition between firms, yet most strategic management theories were developed and refined for large firm contexts. This suggests the assumed theoretical relationships between strategy preference and performance may break down in the small business setting.Design/methodology/approach– The paper uses a data set from the National Federation of Independent Businesses to test hypotheses relating the strategy preferences of 754 small firms with the performance outcomes of survival and expected growth.Findings– Small businesses can focus on both survival and growth when they pursue competency-based strategies, but they risk their very survival when pursuing flexibility-based strategies. Virtually all small firms pursue strategies to compete, but some of the strategies they follow to pursue growth endanger their survival.Research limitations/implications– Because of life-cycle and resource endowment factors, researchers should carefully parse differences between large and small firms when studying the relationship between strategy preferences and organizational performance.Practical implications– Small business owners should be aware that their choices of strategies to pursue growth may lead to unintended consequences, such as the demise of their firms.Originality/value– The paper demonstrates to researchers and practitioners how strategic preferences that presumably allow larger firms both to survive and grow do not have the same effects for smaller firms. The paper establishes boundary conditions for the effectiveness of flexibility strategies on performance in terms of firm size.
Use of SNSs by the researchers in India
Authors: Mahajan Preeti , Singh Har , Kumar Anil 
Published: November 2013

Purpose
– The paper aims to study the purpose of using social networking sites (SNSs) among the research scholars of Panjab University (PU), Chandigarh and Kurukshetra University (KU), Kurukshetra in India.

Design/methodology/approach
– The study was conducted through a questionnaire administered to the research scholars in two universities in India. The questionnaire was distributed among the randomly selected research scholars of the two universities in India.

Findings
– It is observed that the majority of the research scholars from both the universities are aware of the SNSs and have their accounts on them. Facebook is the most popularly accessed SNS both in PU (83 per cent) and KU (77 per cent) followed by Orkut (46 per cent) in PU and Research Gate (38 per cent) at KU. The majority of the research scholars who use SNSs for various purposes from both the universities are in the age group of 20-30 years. 46 per cent of the researchers surveyed from PU do not have any publications and only 5 per cent have more than ten publications so far, whereas 54 per cent research scholars do not have any publications to their credit in KU.

Research limitations/implications
– The study is limited to two universities in India, namely PU, Chandigarh and KU, Kurukshetra. There are a total of 75 teaching departments at PU and 46 departments at KU. The present study is limited to 20 departments each of both the universities. The PU has approximately 500 research scholars and KU has approximately 450 research scholars. The representative sample was formed by taking approximately 15 per cent of respondents (i.e. 65) from 20 departments of each university. 130 questionnaires were received and analyzed for the present study.

Originality/value
– The paper attempts to find out the awareness and use of SNSs among the research scholars perusing their research in different disciplines in PU, Chandigarh and KU, Kurukshetra in India. It is the first of its kind survey to find out the purpose of using the SNSs by the researchers of this region.
Continuous usage of social networking sites
Authors: Chiang Hsiu-Sen 
Published: November 2013

Purpose– Although increasing numbers of users have begun to use social networking sites (SNSs), the user growth of a few SNSs continues to decrease. Therefore identifying factors that influence users' intention to adopt and continuously use a particular SNS is a critical issue. To explore the factors, this study aims to apply the theories of reasoned action, uses and gratifications, and innovation diffusion to explain why people continue to join SNSs.Design/methodology/approach– The study participants were members of Facebook in Taiwan. An online questionnaire was used to conduct empirical research, and the data of 348 respondents were analysed using the partial least squares regression approach.Findings– It was found that the reasons why people continuously use SNSs vary with different innovation diffusion stages. In particular attitude toward SNSs had the strongest direct effect on continuous intention while the impact of social norms was not significant in the different innovation diffusion stages.Practical implications– From a practical perspective, insights provided by the study can help SNS developers understand user motivation and thus design more effective marketing strategies.Originality/value– The proposed model provides an improved understanding of the needs of different SNS users, and testing verified the effects of the factors related to gratification and innovation diffusion.
Workforce assessment method for an urban police department
Authors: Srinivasan Sudharshana , P. Sorrell Toni , Paul Brooks J. , J. Edwards David , Diehl McDougle Robyn 
Published: November 2013

Purpose
– The purpose of this research paper is to describe quantitative methods that assist police administrators with evaluating current staffing and justifying to local governing bodies the size of the patrol workforce required to meet performance benchmarks.

Design/methodology/approach
– A discrete-event simulation model is developed to analyze various staffing levels and alternative scheduling scenarios. Input distributions are based on computer-aided dispatch (CAD) data from an urban police department. The results can be used to estimate the size of the patrol force needed to meet performance objectives.

Findings
– The simulation model produces an estimate of the number of officers required to staff the department in order to meet benchmark goals. The output also indicates when and where patrol officers need to be added and shows performance plateaus where staffing increases only marginally improve performance. Observations on the trade-offs between meeting budget (via staffing) and benchmark goals are also provided.

Research limitations/implications
– Assuming that the quality of CAD data is reliable, our model requires data for one year to generate the distributions needed for the simulation. The computation of staffing estimates requires a shift-relief factor, calculated by the department to account for times when officers cannot be scheduled.

Practical implications
– This study suggests that the department should hire additional patrol officers or increase overtime hours in order to meet performance benchmarks.

Originality/value
– In contrast to previous modeling approaches, our simulation does not rely on the assumption that the policing system is static or in a steady state.
Prevention is better than cure…
Authors: Ward Cally , Cooper Vivien 
Published: November 2013

Purpose
– The purpose of this article is to provide a perspective from family carers on the promotion of independence and the prevention of avoidable dependency.

Design/methodology/approach
– Narrative review and discussion.

Findings
– Family carers frequently experience their own or their relatives’ needs being met only when they have reached crisis point. A shift to a more preventive approach, delivered in a personalised and family-centred manner, could transform the experiences of people with learning disabilities and their families.

Originality/value
– Attention is drawn to the importance of strengthening the case for a preventive approach and the role of co-ordinated and strategic leadership in its delivery.
Heat and immunity: an experimental heat wave alters immune functions in three‐spined sticklebacks (Gasterosteus aculeatus)
Authors: Dittmar Janine , Janssen Hannah , Kuske Andra , Kurtz Joachim , Scharsack Jörn P. 
Published: November 2013

Summary

Global climate change is predicted to lead to increased temperatures and more extreme climatic events. This may influence host–parasite interactions, immunity and therefore the impact of infectious diseases on ecosystems. However, little is known about the effects of rising temperatures on immune defence, in particular in ectothermic animals, where the immune system is directly exposed to external temperature change.
Fish are ideal models for studying the effect of temperature on immunity, because they are poikilothermic, but possess a complete vertebrate immune system with both innate and adaptive immunity. We used three‐spined sticklebacks (
Gasterosteus aculeatus) originating from a stream and a pond, whereby the latter supposedly were adapted to higher temperature variation. We studied the effect of increasing and decreasing temperatures and a simulated heat wave with subsequent recovery on body condition and immune parameters.
We hypothesized that the immune system might be less active at low temperatures, but will be even more suppressed at temperatures towards the upper tolerable temperature range.
Contrary to our expectation, we found innate and adaptive immune activity to be highest at a temperature as low as 13 °C. Exposure to a simulated heat wave induced long‐lasting immune disorders, in particular in a stickleback population that might be less adapted to temperature variation in its natural environment.
The results show that the activity of the immune system of an ectothermic animal species is temperature dependent and suggest that heat waves associated with global warming may immunocompromise host species, thereby potentially facilitating the spread of infectious diseases.
Survival to metamorphosis is positively related to genetic variability in a critically endangered amphibian species
Authors: Richter S. C. , Nunziata S. O. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractIsolated small populations typically have reduced genetic variation and are more susceptible to local extinction. Examining the relationship between genetic variability and survival is important for conservation because it provides insight on evolutionary potential and population viability. We studied genetic associations of survival from egg to metamorphosis in the largest population of critically endangered dusky gopher frogs Lithobates sevosus. This approach allowed us to examine whether heterozygosity‐fitness correlations (HFCs) existed in an r‐selected species with large effect size, whereas previous research on HFCs has largely focused on k‐selected species often with low effect sizes. Our objectives were to determine if genetic‐fitness associations exist, if associations are a result of inbreeding and if natural selection against inbreeding has occurred. Specifically, we examined averaged population responses and HFC in relation to (1) mortality within egg clutches and (2) differential survival of offspring through metamorphosis. To do so, we used eight microsatellite DNA markers to compare genotypes across three life‐history stages from a single year in the following temporal order: adults, eggs and metamorphs. We discovered a strong genetic association with survival in early life stages. In terms of average population responses, we documented a within‐cohort decrease in FIS with life‐history stage progression (adults: FIS = 0.067; eggs: FIS = 0.063; metamorphs: FIS = −0.134), high FST between eggs and metamorphs (FST = 0.113), and a locus that had larger than expected FST. We found positive genetic‐fitness associations for survival of egg clutches and for survival to metamorphosis. We believe that inbreeding is the primary cause; however, we also found evidence suggesting existence of purging selection against a deleterious mutant linked to a microsatellite locus. Survival of individuals with greater genetic variability should prolong persistence of this isolated population. Our study underscores the importance of species management focused on preservation of genetic diversity.
Increased plasma osteopontin in frequent exacerbator and acute exacerbation of COPD
Authors: Lee Seung Jun , Kim Sung Hwan , Kim Wanchul , Lim Sujin , Lee Seung Hun , Kim Yu Eun , Cho Yu Ji , Jeong Yi Yeong , Kim Ho Cheol , Lee Jong Deog , Hwang Young Sil 
Published: November 2013

AbstractIntroductionOsteopontin (OPN) is a phosphorylated glycoprotein expressed by diverse tissues including bone, brain, kidney, liver and lung. Limited data exist regarding OPN in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and the exacerbation of this condition.ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to evaluate plasma OPN levels and investigate the clinical usefulness of plasma OPN measurement in patients with COPD.MethodsPlasma OPN levels were measured and compared in patients with COPD exacerbation (n = 64), patients with stable COPD (n = 68) and healthy controls (n = 30). In patients with COPD exacerbation, plasma OPN levels were measured repeatedly in convalescence. Patients with stable COPD were categorized into frequent and infrequent exacerbators according to their frequency of exacerbation, and plasma OPN levels were compared between these two groups. Plasma OPN levels were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay.ResultsPatients with COPD exacerbation had increased plasma OPN levels compared with those with stable COPD and healthy controls (32.6 ± 29.6, 17.6 ± 11.1, 8.4 ± 6.1 ng/mL, respectively; P < 0.001). In patients with COPD exacerbation, plasma OPN levels were significantly decreased in convalescence (44.8 ± 43.5 vs 24.6 ± 13.6 ng/mL; P = 0.034). Frequent exacerbators had higher plasma OPN levels compared with infrequent exacerbators (22.5 ± 12.0 vs 15.0 ± 9.8 ng/mL; P = 0.008).ConclusionsPlasma OPN levels were increased in patients with COPD exacerbation and frequent exacerbators, which suggests a possible role for OPN as a biomarker of COPD exacerbation.
Colonisation of toxic environments drives predictable life‐history evolution in livebearing fishes (Poeciliidae)
Authors: Riesch Rüdiger , Plath Martin , Schlupp Ingo , Tobler Michael , Brian Langerhans R. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractNew World livebearing fishes (family Poeciliidae) have repeatedly colonised toxic, hydrogen sulphide‐rich waters across their natural distribution. Physiological considerations and life‐history theory predict that these adverse conditions should favour the evolution of larger offspring. Here, we examined nine poeciliid species that independently colonised toxic environments, and show that these fishes have indeed repeatedly evolved much larger offspring size at birth in sulphidic waters, thus uncovering a widespread pattern of predictable evolution. However, a second pattern, only indirectly predicted by theory, proved additionally common: a reduction in the number of offspring carried per clutch (i.e. lower fecundity). Our analyses reveal that this secondary pattern represents a mere consequence of a classic life‐history trade‐off combined with strong selection on offspring size alone. With such strong natural selection in extreme environments, extremophile organisms may commonly exhibit multivariate phenotypic shifts even though not all diverging traits necessarily represent adaptations to the extreme conditions.
Telmisartan prevents angiotensin II‐induced endothelial dysfunction in rabbit aorta via activating HGF/Met system and PPARγ pathway
Authors: Hu Ze‐Ping , Fang Xiao‐Ling , Qian Hai‐Yan , Fang Nan , Wang Bang‐Ning , Wang Yuan 
Published: November 2013

AbstractTelmisartan with partial activation of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor γ (PPARγ) powerfully reduces blood pressure, improves endothelial function and lipid metabolism. Hepatocyte growth factor/mesenchymal‐epithelial transition factor (HGF/Met) system in the local vasculature plays a pivotal role in maintaining normal endothelial function. This study is aimed to evaluate whether telmisartan directly prevents angiotensin II (Ang II)‐induced endothelial dysfunction (ED) via activating HGF/Met system and/or PPARγ pathway. The isolated aortic rings of rabbits were incubated with Ang II (0.01–1 μm), telmisartan (0.1–10 μm), SU11274 (5 μm) as a specific Met inhibitor, GW9662 (10 μm) as a PPARγ antagonist alone or a combination for 6 h. Ang II obviously inhibited the mRNA and protein expression of HGF, Met and PPARγ, and the accumulative concentration–relaxation of the aortic rings to acetylcholine, among which the inhibitory effect of 1 μm Ang II was most significant. By contrast, telmisartan significantly increased the mRNA and protein expression of HGF, Met, and PPARγ, thus preventing Ang II‐induced ED in a dose‐dependent pattern. However, SU11274, GW9662 or a combination of both partially abolished the protective effects derived from telmisartan, with the effect of SU11274 exceeding that of GW9662. These results demonstrate that Ang II‐induced ED in rabbit aortic rings in vitro can be prevented by telmisartan through selective PPARγ‐modulating pathway. Moreover, this study indicates for the first time that activating HGF/Met system in the local vasculature is involved in the protective mechanism of telmisartan.
Global diversity of marine macroalgae: environmental conditions explain less variation in the tropics
Authors: Keith Sally A. , Kerswell Ailsa P. , Connolly Sean R. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAimMarine macroalgae provide an excellent opportunity to test hypotheses about latitudinal diversity gradients because macroalgal richness decreases towards the tropics, contrary to classic patterns, and because three evolutionarily distinct macroalgal clades (Rhodophyta, Chlorophyta, Phaeophyceae) have converged ecologically. Specifically, we determine the extent to which environmental conditions can predict genus richness in macroalgae. We also evaluate whether the magnitude or direction of the effect of environmental factors, or their ability to explain variation in macroalgal diversity, varies geographically.LocationGlobal oceans.MethodsWe formulated and fitted global spatial regression models and geographically weighted regression (GWR) models to determine the extent to which environmental conditions could predict genus richness in macroalgae. GWR allowed us to determine how the role of environmental conditions varied amongst geographical regions.ResultsThe global regression model showed that sea surface temperature and nutrients were important predictors of macroalgal genus richness at a global scale. However, GWR revealed that environmental factors explained less variability in richness in the tropics than elsewhere.Main conclusionsOur results show that whilst environmental conditions influence marine macroalgal diversity, the strength of this influence shows considerable geographical variation. In particular, environmental conditions explain more of the observed variation in diversity at high latitudes than at low latitudes. This finding is consistent with the hypothesis that environmental tolerances influence species distributions more strongly at high latitudes, whereas other factors, such as biotic interactions, play a more prominent role in the tropics.
Application of edible coatings in minimally processed sweet potatoes (Ipomoea batatas L.) to prevent enzymatic browning
Authors: Ojeda Gonzalo A. , Sgroppo Sonia C. , Zaritzky Noemí E. 
Published: November 2013

SummaryTo control browning phenomenon, an edible coating of cassava starch along with ascorbic acid (AA) (combined treatment) was applied to minimally processed sweet potatoes var cv. ‘Blanca Correntina’. The samples were stored at 4 °C for 16 days, and the activities of polyphenol oxidase, peroxidase and phenylalanine ammonia lyase were studied; also, surface colour, antioxidant capacity, ascorbic acid, chlorogenic acid content were evaluated. The combined treatment showed a beneficial impact on the quality of the product, avoiding browning when compared with untreated samples and individual treatments (coating without AA or immersion in AA solution). The improvements were evidenced by the absence of changes in hue, minor changes in a* parameter and a major inhibitory effect of AA on the activity of the three enzymes. Ascorbic acid content and antioxidant capacity increased (P < 0.05). The combined treatment not only was effective in preventing enzymatic browning but also retained freshness and improved nutritional value.
Membrane‐disruptive property of a novel antimicrobial peptide from anchovy (Engraulis japonicus) hydrolysate
Authors: Tang Wenting , Zhang Hui , Wang Li , Qian Haifeng 
Published: November 2013

SummaryA novel antimicrobial peptide named Pep39 has been isolated from anchovy hydrolysate using ÄKTA protein liquid chromatography and reverse‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography. Its amino acid sequence was RLFRHAFKAVLRL with a molecular weight of 1626.92. Pep39 demonstrated antimicrobial ability against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Salmonella typhi ATCC 50013, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Bacillus subtilis ATCC 9372, with minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) ranging from 4 to 32 μg mL−1. No cytotoxicity to mouse red blood cells was observed when its concentration was lower than 30 μg mL−1. Pep39 induced the influx of fluorescent probe 8‐Anilino‐1‐naphthalenesulfonic acid and the outflow of β‐galactosidase by increasing E. coli outer and inner membrane permeabilities, respectively. Flow cytometric analysis also demonstrated that Pep39 disrupted E. coli cell membrane. These results suggested that the antimicrobial mechanism of Pep39 involved cytoplasmic membrane damage.
Equality and Regional Finance in the Americas
Authors: Armijo Leslie Elliott 
Published: November 2013

Abstract
This article explores competing definitions of equality embedded in contending visions for regional finance in the Americas. The U.S. free market–oriented project envisions extension of a NAFTA-like regulatory framework hemispherewide, promising Latin Americans better financial services, credit, and investment in exchange for strong financial property protections and (implicitly) dramatically reduced financial policy autonomy for their governments. Venezuela's vision of “Bolivarian” finance, exported to the Caribbean and the upper Andes, promotes assertive state management of both foreign and domestic investors, populist redistribution, and increasing reliance on nonmarket financial transactions. Brazil's regional financial project would unite South America through continentwide physical infrastructure and capitalist financial markets while retaining a role for public sector banks responsive to central government priorities. Brazil's approach shares with Venezuela's an emphasis on governments' need for financial policy authority and with the U.S. approach a concern for regulatory predictability and financial deepening.