bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effect of Photoperiod on Growth and Feed Efficiency of Fingerling Walleye
Authors: Harder Thomas M , Gotsch Gordon G , Summerfelt Robert C 
Published: September 2012

Abstract
We examined the effect of photoperiod on growth and feed efficiency of fingerling walleyes Sander vitreus cultured in a water reuse aquaculture system in northern Illinois from fall to late winter. We evaluated three photoperiod regimens over 24-h days: continuous light (24 h), 18-h light, and 12-h light. Twelve, 0.55-m3 tanks (four/treatment) were each stocked with 100 feed-trained walleyes (10.9 kg/m3; 196–203 mm total length, 61–66 g in weight). Survival over the 131-d culture interval was greater than 98.8% in all photoperiod treatments. All measures of growth were significantly slower and feeding efficiency was lower for fish in the 12 h of light treatment than for the 24-h and 18-h light treatments. Differences in performance between the 24-h and 18-h treatments were not significant, but all measures of growth and feed efficiency were higher for fish in continuous light than in the 18-h group. The findings support use of continuous, in-tank lighting for intensive culture of fingerlings walleye.
Extraction of β‐Glucan from Oats for Soluble Dietary Fiber Quality Analysis
Authors: Doehlert Douglas C. , Simsek Senay , McMullen Michael S. 
Published: September 2012

ABSTRACTExtraction protocols for β‐glucan from oat flour were tested to determine optimal conditions for β‐glucan quality testing, which included extractability and molecular weight. We found mass yields of β‐glucan were constant at all temperatures, pH values, and flour‐to‐water ratios, as long as sufficient time and enough repeat extractions were performed and no hydrolytic enzymes were present. Extracts contained about 30–60% β‐glucan, with lower proportions associated with higher extraction temperatures in which more starch and protein were extracted. All commercial starch hydrolytic enzymes tested, even those that are considered homogenous, degraded β‐glucan apparent molecular weight as evaluated by size‐exclusion chromatography. Higher concentration β‐glucan solutions could be prepared by controlling the flour‐to‐water ratio in extractions. Eight grams of flour per 50 mL of water generated the highest native β‐glucan concentrations. Routine extractions contained 2 g of enzyme‐inactivated flour in 50 mL of water with 5mM sodium azide (as an antimicrobial), which were stirred overnight, centrifuged, and the supernatant boiled for 10 min. The polymer extracted had a molecular weight of about 2 million and was stable at room temperature for at least a month.
Tribological behaviors of novel tri(hydroxymethyl)propane esters containing boron and nitrogen as lubricant additives in rapeseed oil
Authors: Ji Xianbing , Chen Yinxia , Wang Xiaobo , Liu Weimin 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study the tribological performance of tri(hydroxymethyl)propane esters containing boron and nitrogen as lubricant additives in rapeseed oil.Design/methodology/approachThermal degradation tests were performed to analyze their thermal stability using a thermo‐gravimetric analyzer. Two four‐ball testers were used to measure the tribological properties of tri(hydroxymethyl)propane esters containing boron and nitrogen as lubricant additives in rapeseed oil. The worn surfaces of steel balls were investigated by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS).FindingsThe results show that the tri(hydroxymethyl)propane esters containing boron and nitrogen have excellent thermal stability, good antiwear performance, improve the load‐carrying capacity, and possess friction‐reducing behavior especially at 98 N when they are used as additives in rapeseed oil. The results of XPS show that the adsorption and tribochemical reactions have been occurred to form a complex boundary lubrication film.Originality/valueThe paper illustrates two novel tri(hydroxymethyl)propane esters which contain B and N elements used as additives in rapeseed oil. The results are useful for further applications in advanced environment friendly lubricating oils and additives.
Investigation of oil and emulsion stability of locally prepared metalworking fluids
Authors: Al‐Sabagh Ahmed M. , Khalil Salah A. , Abdelrahman Abdellatief , Nasser Notaila M. , Noor Eldin Mahmoud R. , Mishrif Marwa R. , El‐Shafie Mohamed 
Published: September 2012

PurposeNo one particular fluid has cooling and lubrication properties suitable for every metalworking application. The purpose of this paper is first, to investigate the effect of anionic and nonionic mixed emulsifier system in stabilization of cutting fluid formulations and second, to study the interaction synergism of the fulfill additives of metalworking fluids to achieve low scar diameters, high stability, anti rusting and corrosion properties.Design/methodology/approachA lot of set mixtures in this work were formulated to get the demand needed for soluble oil metalworking fluids. It was based on a blend of emulsifier package (anionic‐non ionic), and in order to reach acceptable manufacturing conditions, coupling agent, stabilizer, biocide, base oil and anti‐rust additives were added to the formulation. Different percentages of these components were incorporated to optimize the stability of the emulsifier system. Standard tests were carried out to evaluate the performance of oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions as lubricating and cooling fluids in machining operations. The evaluation was drawn in five factors; oil stability, emulsion stability, pH, anti‐rust (corrosion inhibition), biological activity and extreme pressure performance tests.FindingsAll tests achieved excellent results according to the ASTM. From the obtained results, the formula (named EPRI 950) exhibited a good performance compared with the commercial cutting fluid.Originality/valueThis work investigates the effect of anionic and nonionic mixed emulsifier system in stabilization of cutting fluid formulations; and the interaction synergism of the fulfill additives of metalworking fluids to achieve low scar diameters, high stability, anti‐rusting and corrosion properties.
Dry sliding wear behaviour of aluminium/alumina/graphite hybrid metal matrix composites
Authors: Radhika N. , Subramanian R. , Venkat Prasat S. , Anandavel B. 
Published: September 2012

PurposeRecent trends in material science show a considerable interest in the manufacturing of metal matrix composites to meet the stringent demands of lightweight, high strength and corrosion resistance. Aluminium is the popular matrix metal currently in vogue that can be reinforced with ceramic materials such as particulates to meet the desired property. The purpose of this paper is to fabricate hybrid metal matrix composites to improve the dry sliding wear resistance and to study of the effect of sliding speed, load and reinforcement (alumina and graphite) on wear properties, as well as its contact friction.Design/methodology/approachThe present study addresses the dry sliding wear behaviour of Al‐Si10Mg alloy reinforced with 3, 6 and 9 wt% of alumina along with 3 wt% of graphite. Stir casting method was used to fabricate the composites. Mechanical properties such as hardness and tensile strength have been evaluated. A pin‐on‐disc wear test apparatus was used to evaluate the wear rate and coefficient of friction by varying the loads of 20, 30 and 40 N, sliding speeds of 1.5 m/s, 2.5 m/s and 3.5 m/s at a constant sliding distance of 2100 m.FindingsMechanical properties of hybrid metal matrix composites (HMMCs) have shown significant improvement. The wear rate and coefficient of friction for alloy and composites decreased with increase in sliding speed and increased with increase in applied load. Temperature rise during wearing process for monolithic alloy was larger than that of HMMCs and Al/9% Al2O3/3% Gr composite showing the minimum temperature rise.The worn surfaces of the composites were investigated using scanning electron microscope.Practical implicationsThe paper shows that aluminium composites can improve strength and wear resistance.Originality/valueHMMCs has proven to be useful in improving the dry sliding wear resistance.
External pressures affecting the adoption of employee performance management in higher education institutions
Authors: Decramer Adelien , Smolders Carine , Vanderstraeten Alex , Christiaens Johan , Desmidt Sebastian 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the relationship between external pressures and the adoption of employee performance management systems within academic units of Flemish higher education institutions. The literature on contextually based HRM and institutionalism is used to underpin the theoretical propositions.Design/methodology/approachA comparative case study is described to provide evidence for the theoretical arguments.FindingsIt has been suggested that academic units face a set of external pressures, which leads to different employee performance management systems. This study finds that academic units imitate their legitimacy‐based reference group and legitimacy‐driven imitation and the adoption of external employee performance management requirements distort the alignment of employee performance management systems.Research limitations/implicationsFuture research could formally test the relationship between external drivers and the adoption of strategic and integrated employee performance management systems in academic units by using a survey questionnaire.Originality/valueThis theoretical argumentation uses contextually‐based human resource theory and it is explored empirically through an analysis of the specific context of Flemish academic units to explain how institutional and market pressures affect the adoption and configuration of employee performance management systems.
Importance of system and leadership in performance appraisal
Authors: Tuytens Melissa , Devos Geert 
Published: September 2012

PurposePerformance appraisal is used internationally to improve employee performance, also in the educational field. However, doubts exist about the effectiveness of performance appraisal. This study aims to contribute by expanding the knowledge about important context variables of performance appraisal in secondary education. In particular, the study aims to examine the role of both characteristics of the teacher performance appraisal system and the school leader for procedural justice and perceived feedback utility by teachers.Design/methodology/approachBoth interviews with school leaders and a questionnaire for teachers were used to collect data in 32 schools. Path analyses (n=298) were used to test the research model.FindingsThe results indicate that teacher participation in the teacher performance appraisal system significantly influences the perceived procedural justice by teachers, which in its turn significantly influences the perceived feedback utility. The role of the school leaders is found to be extremely important. Charismatic leadership influences both directly and indirectly (through procedural justice) the perceived feedback utility by teachers.Originality/valueThis study contributes to the research field of (teacher) performance appraisal by studying empirically appraisal system characteristics and leadership characteristics that effect appraisal reactions. In this regard, this study responds to the need for more empirical research to uncover the social context of performance appraisal, especially in the field of education where there is a general skepticism towards teacher appraisal and its possible positive outcomes.
The effects of CEOs' social networks on organizational performance through knowledge and strategic flexibility
Authors: Fernández‐Pérez Virginia , Jesús García‐Morales Victor , Fernando Bustinza‐Sánchez Óscar 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThis study seeks to analyze theoretically and empirically how different intermediate strategic variables related to knowledge (combinative capabilities and absorptive capacity) and strategic flexibility influence the relation between CEOs' social networks and organizational performance. To date, very little research has analyzed the direct and indirect relationships between these variables.Design/methodology/approachBased on the literature, a theoretical model is developed that shows the interrelations between these variables. The methodology used was LISREL analysis. The model is then tested using data from 203 Spanish organizations.FindingsThis investigation shows the influence of CEOs' social networks (larger networks with strong ties) and capabilities (combinative capabilities and absorptive capacity) on the level of strategic flexibility. It then shows the influence of their strategic flexibility level on organizational performance. It adds theoretical and empirical arguments to the importance of CEOs' social networks for the organization.Originality/valueToday's information and knowledge society requires new CEOs who can confront a reality based on knowledge and foster strategic flexibility to achieve improvements in organizational performance. However, organizations sometimes fail to achieve sustainable competitive advantage due to their limited understanding of the relationships between these strategic variables. This paper develops a complete framework of the capturing of knowledge and information from outside the organization performed by CEOs and the process they use to assimilate, transform and use this knowledge in the organization.
Work‐life balance, travel‐to‐work, and the dual career household
Authors: Wheatley Dan 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to reflect on the underlying conflicts associated with current work‐life balance and travel‐to‐work policies, as employed in organisations in the UK.Design/methodology/approachA mixed method approach is used to ascertain whether professional work‐group cultures limit the effectiveness of work‐life balance policy, and the extent to which spill‐over is present between work‐life balance and transport preferences, especially car use. These concerns are explored empirically using an in‐depth local level quantitative‐qualitative case study of Greater Nottingham (a regional employment centre in the East Midlands region of England).FindingsThe evidence presented in this paper suggests: work‐group cultures prevent employees, especially women, from achieving work‐life balance; there is spill‐over between work and non‐work activities, creating time allocation challenges, and stress, for dual career households attempting to achieve desired work‐life balance; and specific conflicts are reported in balancing work with travel‐to‐work, especially car parking.Practical implicationsThe research findings suggest that transport, especially employee car parking, needs to be considered a focal point in the planning and implementation of human resource (HR) policies. Employers also need to reconsider their approach to flexible working to dissolve the negative repercussions that the “choice” to work flexibly has for the careers of highly skilled workers, especially working mothers. Increases in formalised home‐based teleworking, restructuring the gender balance in management, and positive discrimination toward certain groups offer potential routes for change.Originality/valueThis paper provides important recommendations for employers and HR managers, designing and implementing work‐life balance policies. Transport issues, presently considered largely external from the employer perspective, have central relevance.
A method for matching customer integration with operational control of service processes
Authors: Leyer Michael , Moormann Jürgen 
Published: September 2012

PurposeA major problem of operational control in the services industry is the integration of customers in the delivery process. The aim of this paper is to develop a method that allows service companies to evaluate the impact of customer integration on operational control in service processes.Design/methodology/approachThe development of the proposed method follows a design science approach. Thus, the method is conceptualised on the basis of production, services and information systems research. A case study of loan processing in a bank serves to evaluate the applicability of the method.FindingsAs a result of this study, customer integration should be included into operational control following three steps: identification of the type of customer integration; quantification and characterisation of the impact of the integration; and identification of the appropriate mechanisms of operational control to deal with the customer integration better. The results of the case study show that customer integration has an impact on certain activities within a service process only but the results can be used to enhance operational control.Practical implicationsThe method can be used by process managers of service companies to identify the impact of customer integration on operational control. Thus, decisions within operational control and consequently the overall productivity of a service process can be improved.Originality/valueThe paper delivers a new insight how customer integration and operational control can be linked in service processes. Thus, a theoretical gap in service operations literature is filled. Furthermore, the case study demonstrates how the method can be used in practice.
Employers and migration in low‐skilled services in Dublin
Authors: Rachel McPhee Siobhán 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse the role of employers as “institutional” factors in the creation of segmentation in the labour market. Industrial structure defines segments of the labour market (the employer) based on the nature of demand, and with the impact on the individual workers or groups based on their personal characteristics.Design/methodology/approachEmpirical work is within the Dublin labour market, which experienced the largest increase in availability of migrant workers under immigration policies of the Celtic Tiger state. Focused on the sectors of catering, cleaning and security as low‐skilled service sector providers, the analysis is based on 24 semi‐structured interviews with employers selected based on a database of a cross‐section of all employers in the selected sectors in Dublin.FindingsSemi‐structured interviews reinforce state policies as key institutional factor underlying migrant labour trends and experiences, but perspectives of the employers in low‐end service industries reveal additional insights. In addition to using migrant labour as a means of cost cutting, the daily actions of employers reveal cultural stereotyping of workers, making them an elemental component “exploiting” the trends facilitated by state immigration policies.Originality/valueAlthough a large body of research on migration into Ireland during the Celtic Tiger years is available, little of it has focused on labour market processes. More broadly, in attempting to understand labour market processes and the creation of segmentation there needs to be a triangulation of processes of supply, demand and state policies; and employers are key players in shaping demand and exploiting supply trends.
Representing embodiment and the policy implementing principal using photovoice
Authors: Werts Amanda B. , Brewer Curtis A. , Mathews Sarah A. 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to contribute to the literature on the many dimensions of the principal's positionality by using a unique research approach to link the experiences of the policy implementing principal to embodiment.Design/methodology/approachThe researchers employed a form of critical policy analysis that utilized photovoice to examine the experience of two principals in South Carolina, USA.FindingsThe findings suggest that these two principals do feel, beyond a cognitive emotional level, the experiences of being the policy implementing principal, where the multiple physically imprinted identities typified one principal's experiences and the highly entropic world of her high school causes another principal to physically and metaphorically integrate situations into her physiology.Originality/valueIn this paper, the authors are able to expand discussions of the principals’ engagement with policy by using a unique theoretical and methodological approach.
Contexts for the professional development of part‐timers
Authors: Khayr Yaacoub Hala 
Published: September 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the contexts in which part‐time academics pursue their professional development practices at one Lebanese higher education institution.Design/methodology/approachA case‐study was carried out at the Western Oriental University (WOU) (a pseudonym) where 23 part‐timers and three full‐timers (ex‐part‐timers) were interviewed. To triangulate the data, four of the participants were asked to participate in diary writing. In addition, document checking was carried out. The part‐timers were chosen to represent the wider population of part‐timers at the University. Thus, they were chosen to illustrate particular factors characterizing part‐timers, such as gender, seniority, educational standing, number of work sites and type of part‐time choice. Thematic and discourse analysis were used to analyze the data and investigate the contexts and their impacts on the professional development practices carried out by the participants under study.FindingsAnalysis revealed that professional development efforts are greatly curtailed for the part‐timers under study by the unfortunate circumstances of part‐time work in general, coupled with the more specific country situation and particular university practices. Professional development practices which are essential for securing “lifetime employability” of the participants seem, as a result, to be seriously abridged, making them insecure – both in the short and long run.Originality/valueReflecting upon the practices taking place at the WOU could be used to give an idea about the difficulties encountered by other part‐timers at other universities in the region.