bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Local authority liability in New Zealand for defective homes
Authors: Palmer Kenneth 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to assess the legal liability of local authorities in New Zealand for the issue of building consents and inspection, in respect of domestic homes where the property proves to be faulty. A local authority may be liable for economic loss. The duty of care extends to the owners of multi‐unit dwellings, but not commercial buildings. A ten year longstop for claims from council approvals applies. Problems with leaky homes have given rise to a substantial number of claims. A government response has been to provide a mediation service, and to assume liability for a percentage of repair costs.Design/methodology/approachThe history of liability of local authorities for negligence in respect of building approvals is assessed, through examination of the statute law and the common law principles.FindingsThe findings of liability of local authorities in New Zealand is compared to the legal position in the UK. Conclusions are drawn as to legal and practical outcomes.Originality/valueChanges under the law have occurred within the last year and the study is original in assessing the legal position and future outcomes. The liability for leaky homes is a major issue in the country.
Managing urbanisation and environmental protection in Australian cities
Authors: Williams Peter 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the regulatory, policy and market‐based approaches taken to incorporate biodiversity conservation in the management of urban growth in Sydney and more broadly in New South Wales, Australia's most populous state. Problems associated with managing Sydney's growth – particularly from the intersection of dealing with perceived property rights and the protection of natural resources such as biodiversity – are identified, and the scope for hybrid “smart regulation” is examined.Design/methodology/approachThe relevant issues are illustrated through significant State Government development decisions relating to the retention of biodiversity in the new growth areas of Sydney.FindingsThe paper argues that to better integrate biodiversity conservation in Australian cities a mixed approach be adopted in which a number of tools are utilised – and that this needs to occur in the context of a sound overarching strategic planning framework. This constitutes a hybrid approach involving a “fixed” strategic spatial plan informing statutory‐based regulation primarily through zoning and other development controls, augmented by a range of market based tools implemented through statute and common law measures such as conservation covenants.Originality/valueSingular reliance on traditional “command and control” regulatory approaches as both a cause and ineffectual solution to the problems faced in biodiversity conservation is highlighted. Newer “market based” mechanisms which are being introduced (e.g. biobanking), or should be adopted (e.g. transferable development rights), and management at the strategic level (e.g. biodiversity certification), are examined.
Beyond the numbers: qualitative growth in women's businesses
Authors: Dalborg Cecilia , von Friedrichs Yvonne , Wincent Joakim 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this research paper is to investigate the growth of women's businesses from a qualitative perspective. The paper identifies strategic building blocks for defining a set of different growth platforms. Moreover, the paper investigates growth ambitions for women inside each identified “type” of growth platform and identifies critical motivation variables that can influence the decision to move from growing one business platform to growing another platform.Design/methodology/approachThe results are based on 191 women entrepreneurs. Data were analyzed by coding narrative statements from the survey into overarching themes for business platforms, descriptive frequency analysis and logistic regression analysis techniques.FindingsThe paper discerned five different growth platforms and noticed intrinsic or extrinsic growth ambitions for platform growth. The extrinsic platforms are the most common, but all platforms can be characterized by equally high growth aspirations. Each of the identified platforms is associated with distinct and unique blocks that the women entrepreneurs try to put together and resolve in order to grow their companies. Women entrepreneurs move between the different platforms when the building blocks of previous platforms have been established and secured. Variables such as profits and ownership may explain such transfers of growth ambitions.Research limitations/implicationsWhile acknowledging the qualitative growth of business platforms, the paper takes an approach that goes against the traditional view of quantitative growth.Originality/valueThis study is a response to the lack of research on qualitative growth and women's entrepreneurship and suggests that the manifested qualitative growth can be in order to secure blocks on different business platforms.
Optimized drawdown risk in evaluating the performance of Malaysian mutual funds
Authors: Reza Tavakoli Baghdadabad Mohammad , Matnor Fauzias , Ibrahim Izani 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to evaluate the risk‐adjusted performance of Malaysian mutual funds using optimized drawdown risk measures (ODRMs) based on modern portfolio theory, and to represent the results in a manner which is easily understood by average investors and portfolio managers.Design/methodology/approachThis study evaluates the performance of 70 Malaysian mutual funds using risk‐adjusted returns during 2000‐2011. The ODRM is primarily calculated by 70 linear programming models, consequently seven new optimized risk‐adjusted performance measures including Sharpe, Treynor, M‐squared, Jensen's alpha, information ratio (IR), MSR, and FPI are proposed to evaluate these funds.FindingsThe results of this study have several implications. First, the ODRM can be an alternative risk measure to optimize the selection of mutual funds. Second, it proposes new seven optimized performance measures of Sharpe, Treynor, M‐square, Jensen's alpha, IR, MSR, and FPI. These measures help fund managers to evaluate the performance of Malaysian mutual funds optimally. Third, No‐Islamic funds have the upper performance than Islamic funds based on the results of optimized measures and robustness tests. Fourth, the majority of surveying funds over‐perform the benchmark indexes.Practical implicationsThe research evidence reported by this study can be utilized as input in the process of decision making by small and average investors and portfolio managers who are seeking the possibility of participating in Malaysian stock market by mutual funds.Originality/valueThis paper is the first study that optimizes the drawdown risk measure to evaluate the performance of Malaysian mutual funds and propose seven optimized measures, Sharpe, Treynor, M‐Square, Jensen's alpha, IR, MSR, and FPI.
Finding a worldly curriculum: utilizing a cosmopolitan curriculum in a global community
Authors: Kazanjian Christopher 
Published: September 2012

PurposeMany twenty‐first century academics engaged in the discourse of multicultural issues have misplaced their focus on polemics and platitudes. In the USA, students are not following a curriculum that will help them understand multiculturalism nor are they being given the tools to help shape the global community. The purpose of this paper is to discuss how a cosmopolitan curriculum is able to find new possibilities for students and teachers, in order to develop a better multicultural education. The end result will prepare individuals to become active participants in the global community.Design/methodology/approachThe paper seeks to uncover the theory of cosmopolitanism into the discourse of public school curriculum and with a review of the literature, as well as the application to current global situations, seeks to apply a cosmopolitan curriculum to help the process of globalization.FindingsIt is the responsibility of educators to prepare students for a global community; through the curricular methods of a cosmopolitanism, one is able to do so.Originality/valueThe paper presents a unique perspective on how to take responsibility for creating a global community, which may begin in the classroom.
An analysis of ISO 14001 and suggested improvements
Authors: Searcy Cory , Morali Oguz , Karapetrovic Stanislav 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present concrete recommendations on how the ISO 14001 standard for environmental management systems can be improved.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents the key results of a Canadian colloquium on ISO 14001. The theme of the colloquium was “How can ISO 14001 be improved in its next incarnation?” In total, 22 people from a wide variety of sectors participated in the colloquium. The discussions included a combination of plenary and small group discussions and were led by two professional facilitators. The colloquium was a part of a series of four events that have occurred since 2002. The next colloquium will be held in approximately two years.FindingsThe improvements suggested by the participants were organized around seven key areas: definitions; purpose; environmental policy; public reporting; monitoring and measurement; management review; and other changes. The changes are presented in detail in the paper.Originality/valueThe participants in the colloquium believed that the suggested changes will make significant improvements to ISO 14001. The suggestions are timely, given that the standard is up for review in the near future.
Association Between MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 Gene Polymorphisms and Advanced‐Stage Endometriosis in Korean Women
Authors: Cho Yeon Jean , Kim Nam Hee , Jeong Kyung‐Ah , Lee Ji Young , Moon Hye‐Sung , Kim Hyung‐Lae , Chung Hye Won 
Published: September 2012

ProblemTo characterize the genetic variation across the MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 gene with the risk of advanced‐stage endometriosis.Method of studyTen single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and haplotype associations between MMP‐2 (9082A>G, 9152A>G, 105330C>T, 14931T>C, 15918T>C, 18796G>A, 19033G>A, 19218A>G, 25190A>G, and 28542C>T) and TMIP‐2 gene (42138327C>T, 42141169G>A, 42144611A>G, 42152781C>T, 42155855G>A, 42175617C>T, 42181597G>A, 42183387T>C, 42196041G>C, and 42196430T>C) were examined in 201 patients and 183 controls.ResultsIn MMP‐2, G/A haplotype of 9082A>G and 9152A>G in intron 2 was associated with a reduced risk of endometriosis (OR 0.7, 95% CI 0.5–1.0, P = 0.04). In TIMP‐2, the CC genotype of 42196430T>C and C/C haplotype of 42196041G>C/42196430T>C in the promoter region showed an increased risk of endometriosis (OR 3.0, 95% CI 1.2–8.0, P = 0.02; OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.1–2.4, P = 0.02), and the CC genotype of 42183387T>C and the C/G/C haplotype of 42175617C>T/42181597G>A/42183387T>C in intron 1 were associated with a reduced risk (OR 0.5, 95% CI 0.3–0.97, P = 0.04; OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.4–0.95, P = 0.03).ConclusionThe MMP‐2 and TIMP‐2 polymorphisms are associated with advanced‐stage endometriosis. Especially, the risk of endometriosis was different according to the genetic position in the TIMP‐2 gene.
Associations Between Genetic Polymorphisms of Beta‐2 Adrenergic Receptor and Preterm Delivery in Korean Women
Authors: Suh Young Ju , Park Hyun Ju , Lee Kyung A. , Lee Bo Eun , Ha Eun Hee , Kim Young Ju 
Published: September 2012

ProblemWe investigated genetic polymorphisms to understand the etiology of preterm delivery, which involves inflammatory cytokines and uterine contraction. Maternal polymorphisms of ADRB2, iNOS, and eNOS were examined, and associations between these and the risk of preterm delivery were sought.Method of StudyThis study was performed on 166 Korean women who underwent preterm delivery and 289 normal controls. Logistic regression analyses were carried out to identify single genes and haplotypes that affect the risk of preterm delivery.ResultsThe G/G haplotype of ADRB2‐rs1042713 and ‐rs1042714 was found to be associated with the risk of preterm delivery (OR = 1.90, 95% CI = 1.08–3.33, P‐value = 0.0252). The genotype frequency of G allele in ADRB2‐rs1042714 was associated with increased the risk of preterm delivery. However, after the adjustment of multiple comparison corrections, the association with preterm delivery was not remained significantly.ConclusionThese findings possibly aid our understanding of the pathogenesis of preterm delivery and suggest that a haplotype with variants in maternal genes involved in adrenergic activation may lead to the dysregulation of uterine contractility and increase the risk of preterm delivery.
Common Membership and Effective Corporate Governance: Evidence from Audit and Compensation Committees
Authors: Liao Chih‐Hsien , Hsu Audrey Wen‐Hsin 
Published: September 2012

AbstractManuscript TypeEmpiricalResearch Question/IssueThis study examines the factors associated with the presence of the same directors across the compensation committee and the audit committee in US firms, and whether such common membership enhances or undermines effective governance.Research Findings/InsightsUsing 4,572 firm‐year observations in the US during fiscal years 2004–2008, the results show that common membership is more likely to occur in firms with weak corporate governance and in firms lacking financial and committee resources, and is not associated with firms having a high demand for coordination between compensation and audit committees. We also find that firms with common membership have poorer earnings quality and weaker pay‐performance sensitivity than other firms.Theoretical/Academic ImplicationsOur study is one of the first to propose theoretical arguments and empirical evidence on the determinants as well as the consequences of common membership across compensation and audit committees. We fill the gap in the literature by examining the interplay between these committees.Practitioner/Policy ImplicationsThis study offers practical implications for corporations. The findings indicate that common membership is not employed to fulfill the coordinative role between audit and compensation committees and can put the effectiveness of audit and compensation committees at risk. Therefore, firms who intend to strengthen compensation practices or improve financial reporting quality should re‐examine their committee structures to ensure proper task separation.
Quantification of Demodex folliculorum by PCR in rosacea and its relationship to skin innate immune activation
Authors: Casas Christiane , Paul Carle , Lahfa Morad , Livideanu Bulai , Lejeune Ophélie , Alvarez‐Georges Sandrine , Saint‐Martory Christine , Degouy Arnaud , Mengeaud Valérie , Ginisty Hervé , Durbise Elizabeth , Schmitt Anne M. , Redoulès Daniel 
Published: September 2012

AbstractThe aim of this study is to quantify D. folliculorum colonisation in rosacea subtypes and age‐matched controls and to determine the relationship between D. folliculorum load, rosacea subtype and skin innate immune system activation markers. We set up a multicentre, cross‐sectional, prospective study in which 98 adults were included: 50 with facial rosacea, including 18 with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR), and 32 with papulopustular rosacea (PPR) and 48 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers. Non‐invasive facial samples were taken to quantify D. folliculorum infestation by quantitative PCR and evaluate inflammatory and immune markers. Analysis of the skin samples show that D. folliculorum was detected more frequently in rosacea patients than age‐matched controls (96% vs 74%, P < 0.01). D. folliculorum density was 5.7 times higher in rosacea patients than in healthy volunteers. Skin sample analysis showed a higher expression of genes encoding pro‐inflammatory cytokines (Il‐8, Il‐1b, TNF‐a) and inflammasome‐related genes (NALP‐3 and CASP‐1) in rosacea, especially PPR. Overexpression of LL‐37 and VEGF, as well as CD45RO, MPO and CD163, was observed, indicating broad immune system activation in patients with rosacea. In conclusion, D. folliculorum density is highly increased in patients with rosacea, irrespective of rosacea subtype. There appears to be an inverse relationship between D. folliculorum density and inflammation markers in the skin of rosacea patients, with clear differences between rosacea subtypes.
Effects of Sn segregation and precipitates on creep response of Mg‐Sn alloys
Authors: HUANG Y. , DIERINGA H. , KAINER K. U. , HORT N. 
Published: September 2012

ABSTRACTMg‐Sn alloys are promising for the development of new cheap creep resistant magnesium alloys. In the present paper, the creep behaviours of Mg‐Sn and Mg‐Sn‐Ca alloys were examined at the constant temperature and different stresses. The measurements of stress exponents indicate that the dislocation climbing is the dominant mechanism during the creep of Mg‐3Sn or Mg‐3Sn‐2Ca alloys. The poor creep resistance of the binary Mg‐3Sn alloy is caused by the easy movement of dislocation and the segregation of Sn at the boundaries. Both T4 and T6 heat treatments improve the creep resistance of Mg‐3Sn alloy due to the alleviation of Sn segregation at grain boundaries and the precipitation of Mg2Sn particles, respectively. Ca is an effective alloying element to increase the creep resistance of Mg‐Sn alloys. The Ca addition leads to the formation of thermal stable phases Mg2Ca and CaMgSn in Mg‐3Sn‐Ca alloys. These two phases effectively hinder the movement of dislocations and the sliding of grain boundaries. On the other hand, the addition of Ca alleviates the segregation of Sn by the interaction of Ca with Mg and Sn to form the phase CaMgSn.
History, rather than contemporary processes, determines variation in macroinvertebrate diversity in artesian springs: the expansion hypothesis
Authors: RADER RUSSELL B. , KELEHER MARY J. , BILLMAN ERIC , LARSEN RANDY 
Published: September 2012

Summary1. The relative importance of contemporary and historical processes is a fundamental question in understanding patterns of biodiversity. We tested the hypothesis that species‐sorting into different habitats (limnocrenes, rheocrenes, helocrenes), rather than history, would account for the greatest variation in macroinvertebrate diversity in desert artesian springs of The Bonneville Basin, U.S.A. These springs were isolated at the valley scale c. 9000 years ago by aridity and high salinity. Thus, the valley scale will account for the greatest variation in community composition if history and dispersal limitation are important, whereas niche‐based sorting processes will be most important if habitat accounts for the greatest variation in community composition.2. We identified 302 taxa from 280 sites and used a partial redundancy analysis, additive partitioning and classification strength (CS) to partition the variability in diversity among the springs. The valley scale accounted for more variation in community composition in limnocrene habitats (32.5%) than all other spatial and environmental variables combined. Valleys also accounted for 58% (additive partitioning) and 83% (CS) of the regional variation in diversity in analyses that included all three habitat types. That is, the average community similarity was 25% across the region, but increased to 41% within valleys. By contrast, habitat filtering did not account for significant variation in community composition in any of the analyses. Our study is one of the few suggesting the over‐riding importance of neutral processes in determining patterns of diversity (history and dispersal limitation).3. The ‘expansion’ hypothesis suggests that the youthful age of a region, combined with slow dispersal by a fauna dominated by generalists, will maximise the imprint of history. These communities appear to exist in a pre‐equilibrial state, where the maximum carrying capacity has not been reached and niche space is plentiful. With time, we predict that local richness will increase while β‐diversity decreases as species expand their distribution across the region. Consequently, the importance of niche‐based processes may increase with time as the imprint of history fades.
Molecular abnormalities in ovarian carcinoma: clinical, morphological and therapeutic correlates
Authors: Gurung Ananta , Hung Tawny , Morin Jason , Gilks C Blake 
Published: September 2012

The histopathological classification of ovarian surface epithelial carcinomas (referred to hereafter as ‘ovarian carcinoma’) has shifted over the past 10 years to reflect more clearly our understanding of molecular events during carcinogenesis. Ovarian carcinoma is no longer viewed as a single entity but as multiple disease processes, with each having different molecular pathways altered during oncogenesis, resulting in differences in clinical and pathological features, such as biomarker expression, pattern of spread and response to chemotherapy. There are five subtypes of ovarian carcinoma that are sufficiently distinct and well‐characterized that they should be considered to be different diseases, i.e. high‐grade serous, clear cell, endometrioid, mucinous and low‐grade serous, from most to least common, respectively. This review summarizes the molecular abnormalities of these five ovarian carcinoma subtypes, relating them to clinical and pathological features.
Anti‐viral and anti‐bacterial activities of an extract of blackcurrants (Ribes nigrum L.)
Authors: Ikuta Kazufumi , Hashimoto Koichi , Kaneko Hisatoshi , Mori Shuichi , Ohashi Kazutaka , Suzutani Tatsuo 
Published: September 2012

ABSTRACTThe inhibitory effects of an extract of the blackcurrant (Ribes nigrum L.) against pathogens associated with oral, nasopharyngeal and upper respiratory infectious diseases; namely respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), influenza virus A and B (IFV‐A and IFV‐B), adenovirus (AdV), herpes simplex virus type 1, Haemophilus influenzae type B, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Streptococcus mutans, were investigated. Less than 1% concentration of extract of blackcurrant inhibited replication of RSV, IFV‐A and ‐B and HSV‐1 by over 50% and a 10% extract inhibited adsorption of these viruses onto the cell surface by over 95%. The effects on AdV were much less pronounced; the half minimal inhibitory concentration of AdV replication was 2.54 ± 0.26, and a 10% concentration of the extract inhibited AdV adsorption on the cell surface by 72.9 ± 3.4%. The antibacterial activities of the blackcurrant were evaluated based on its efficacy as a disinfectant. A 10% extract disinfected 99.8% of H. Influenzae type B and 78.9% of S. pneumoniae in 10 min, but had no demonstrable effect against S. mutans. The blackcurrant extract still showed antiviral and antibacterial activities after the pH had been made neutral with sodium hydroxide, suggesting that these activities are not the result of acidic reactions or of components precipitated at a neutral pH. These findings demonstrate the potential of blackcurrant extract as a functional food for oral care.