bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wheat Gluten Polymer Structures: The Impact of Genotype, Environment, and Processing on Their Functionality in Various Applications
Authors: Johansson Eva , Malik Ali Hafeez , Hussain Abrar , Rasheed Faiza , Newson William R. , Plivelic Tomas , Hedenqvist Mikael S. , Gällstedt Mikael , Kuktaite Ramune 
Published: March 2013

ABSTRACTFor a number of applications, gluten protein polymer structures are of the highest importance in determining end‐use properties. The present article focuses on gluten protein structures in the wheat grain, genotype‐ and environment‐related changes, protein structures in various applications, and their impact on quality. Protein structures in mature wheat grain or flour are strongly related to end‐use properties, although influenced by genetic and environment interactions. Nitrogen availability during wheat development and genetically determined plant development rhythm are the most important parameters determining the gluten protein polymer structure, although temperature during plant development interacts with the impact of the mentioned parameters. Glutenin subunits are the main proteins incorporated in the gluten protein polymer in extracted wheat flour. During dough mixing, gliadins are also incorporated through disulfide‐sulfhydryl exchange reactions. Gluten protein polymer size and complexity in the mature grain and changes during dough formation are important for breadmaking quality. When using the gluten proteins to produce plastics, additional proteins are incorporated in the polymer through disulfide‐sulfhydryl exchange, sulfhydryl oxidation, β‐eliminations with lanthionine formation, and isopeptide formation. In promising materials, the protein polymer structure is changed toward β‐sheet structures of both intermolecular and extended type and a hexagonal close‐packed structure is found. Increased understanding of gluten protein polymer structures is extremely important to improve functionality and end‐use quality of wheat‐ and gluten‐based products.
Maize RNA Polymerase IV Definestrans-Generational Epigenetic Variation
Authors: Erhard Karl F. , Parkinson Susan E. , Gross Stephen M. , Barbour Joy-El R. , Lim Jana P. , Hollick Jay B. 
Published: March 2013

AbstractThe maize (Zea mays) RNA Polymerase IV (Pol IV) largest subunit, RNA Polymerase D1 (RPD1 or NRPD1), is required for facilitating paramutations, restricting expression patterns of genes required for normal development, and generating small interfering RNA (siRNAs). Despite this expanded role for maize Pol IV relative to Arabidopsis thaliana, neither the general characteristics of Pol IV–regulated haplotypes, nor their prevalence, are known. Here, we show that specific haplotypes of the purple plant1 locus, encoding an anthocyanin pigment regulator, acquire and retain an expanded expression domain following transmission from siRNA biogenesis mutants. This conditioned expression pattern is progressively enhanced over generations in Pol IV mutants and then remains heritable after restoration of Pol IV function. This unusual genetic behavior is associated with promoter-proximal transposon fragments but is independent of sequences required for paramutation. These results indicate that trans-generational Pol IV action defines the expression patterns of haplotypes using co-opted transposon-derived sequences as regulatory elements. Our results provide a molecular framework for the concept that induced changes to the heterochromatic component of the genome are coincident with heritable changes in gene regulation. Alterations of this Pol IV–based regulatory system can generate potentially desirable and adaptive traits for selection to act upon.
Review of manufacturing cells as they achieve high levels of autonomy and flexibility
Authors: Bloss Richard 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a review of the most recent IMTS show in Chicago with emphasis on the new manufacturing automation innovations and applications on display.Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents in‐depth interviews with exhibitors of automation equipment and system integrators of automation technology at the show.FindingsAutomation technology continues to address an ever increasing number of manufacturing tasks to improve quality and productivity at every step in the manufacturing and inspection process.Practical implicationsCustomers may be surprised at the automation innovations and new applications which are appearing in the manufacturing environment.Originality/valueThe paper offers a review of some of the latest automation innovations and applications that one might have seen if they had been on the exhibition floor at the most recent Chicago IMTS show.
Retail service quality in small retail sector: the Indian experience
Authors: Khare Arpita 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe objective of the research is to understand Indian consumers' definition of retail service quality with respect to small retailers and influence of hedonic and utilitarian shopping values in determining their expectations towards small retail service quality.Design/methodology/approachData were collected through a small retail store‐intercept technique in four cities of Northern India (n=386).FindingsThe results indicate that small retail service quality for Indian consumers comprises ambience, layout, and service/relationships dimensions. Hedonic and utilitarian shopping values influence consumers' service quality evaluations.Research limitations/implicationsThe study did not consider demographic variables like income, education, and occupation as factors that might affect consumers' perceptions towards retail service quality.Practical implicationsThe findings can help small retailers in improving their service quality by focusing on Indian consumers' hedonic and utilitarian shopping values. The research helps small retailers to combat the competitive pressures of organized retailing in the Indian retail landscape.Originality/valueThere has been limited research on understanding consumers' perceptions towards retail service quality in the Indian setting. Further, there is no research to examine Indian consumers' perceptions towards small retailers' quality attributes.
Ethnic bias in tenant selection in metropolitan Ibadan private rental housing market
Authors: Taiwo Gbadegesin Job , Ojo Olatoye 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to investigate the presence of ethnic bias in residential tenancy and the relationship between ethnic bias tendency of property managers/landlords and their demographic features.Design/methodology/approachData for the study were gathered from administration of questionnaires, designed with items measuring bias tendency and the driving factors on the perceived wave of discrimination on residential tenancy. The structured questionnaires were administered on an intact sample of licensed property managers/agents (practicing Estate Surveyors and Valuers) at annual Mandatory Continuing Professional Development Programme (MCPD) held in metropolitan Ibadan, the largest indigenous city in West Africa and one of the commercial nerve‐centres in the country. Data collected were analyzed using descriptive analysis, chi square and factor analysis.FindingsThe study confirmed a significant relationship between the ethnic status of the principal managers (managing directors) who were mainly Yoruba aliens and the tenants selected to fill vacancies, which implies that there is presence of ethnic discrimination in tenant selection in the area. It is also confirmed that landlord/property manager (agents) experience, environmental influence and landlord/property manager preference are the most driving factors for discriminating against tenants in the city. It is further revealed that there is a significant relationship between two demographic features; professional qualifications and ages of the property managers’ firms and bias tendency.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited to the metropolitan city of Ibadan, a city with expatriates and diverse ethnic groups working at different sectors of the economy. Further research and statistical tests that covers all the 36 capital cities of the country are required to examine the tenancy nature of other classes of property.Practical implicationsThe implication of the study to the practice is reinforced by the consensus character of the study with the professional body (property managers). Insight and findings prove useful in developing a blueprint for curbing acts of discrimination which needs to be well addressed in property management practice. It implies that effective property rights that protect the rights and rental market planning policy in the developing nations require further reform.Originality/valueEmphasis on tenants’ rights, campaign against racism and discrimination in the developing nations which support equal housing right for all races is the feature and uniqueness of this study.
Economic and management perspectives on control of illegal land uses in the leasehold system
Authors: Lam Terence Y.M. , Man Henry K.H. 
Published: March 2013

PurposeIllegal changes of use in aged industrial and residential buildings is now a prevalent problem in Hong Kong. This research aims to develop a strategy for an effective and efficient control of illegal land use in a highly dense environment, with high rise buildings in multiple leasehold ownerships.Design/methodology/approachMultiple cases were qualitatively analyzed, based on documentary analysis of the court proceedings.FindingsIn Cases 1 and 2, lease conditions for restriction to industrial purposes on aged industrial buildings were found to be obsolete and not economically viable, thus resulting in illegal conversion of the premises for commercial use. Cases 2 and 3 showed that ambiguity in user clauses in land leases could lead to illegal changes of use from industrial or residential to commercial activities. Most importantly, Cases 1 and 3 demonstrated that limited resources for lease enforcement are the fundamental cause of the problem. Cases 4 and 5 proved that property managers could take effective legal action against changes of use in buildings with multiple ownerships.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of this study are derived from five typical cases in Hong Kong, but they form a baseline upon which further research can build to test their significance in many other settings. Ultimately, a more robust strategy can be developed for ensuring an effective and efficient control of illegal land uses in the leasehold system for Hong Kong and for those countries with a similar tenure system.Practical implicationsA total economic and management strategy should be implemented by the government. The land management system should work in partnership with private property managers which are empowered under the Deed of Mutual Covenant (DMC) of multiple occupied buildings to take instant action against individual owners for breaches of lease conditions. The system should also be more flexible to expand the scope of new uses for aged industrial premises, allow affordable premium for lease modifications, as well as review and clarify any ambiguous user clauses in the related land ordinances.Social implicationsThe public should be educated that it is important to seek approvals and consents from the government prior to making any changes of land use. The government should also establish a housing policy to provide sufficient affordable housing for the lower income group so that illegal sub‐divisions on buildings for residential purposes can be eliminated.Originality/valueThe improvement measures identified can effectively enforce compliance with lease conditions, which in turn can reduce the enforcement transaction costs, ensure efficient allocation and use of land in the leasehold system, and maintain building safety.
Collective learning in schools: exploring the perceptions of leadership trainees
Authors: Schechter Chen 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore leadership trainees’ perceptions of determinants of collective learning in school settings and of the principal's role in collective learning.Design/methodology/approachIn total, 24 interviews were conducted with all leadership trainees in a university‐based principal preparatory program. Data analysis inductively generated themes that were grounded in the various perspectives articulated by leadership trainees.FindingsLeadership trainees pointed out three main difficulties facing collective learning: time and place; staff reaction to collective learning; and acceptance atmosphere. Trainees listed four main roles that principals have in shaping the collective learning process: administrator; team leader; collaborator; and visionary.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings call for ongoing research on the connection between leadership trainees’ conceptualizations of collective learning and their practical capabilities to initiate these learning processes in schools.Originality/valueThe results of this study can shed light on how to prepare leadership trainees in a university preparation program to initiate and sustain collaborative learning interactions among faculty members.
Characteristics and properties of Bi‐11Ag solder
Authors: Koleňák Roman , Chachula Michal 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study Bi‐11Ag solder for higher application temperatures. The aim of the research work was to determine the soldering, thermal and mechanical properties of Bi‐11Ag solder.Design/methodology/approachTo determine the melting point interval of experimental Bi‐11Ag solder, DSC analysis was performed. The contact angles were studied on a copper, nickel and silver substrate by use of a sessile drop method. Wettability tests were realised at a temperature of 380°C in a shielding atmosphere (90% N2+10% H2). Based on experience achieved with wetting angle measurements, the specimens for measurement of shear strength of Cu, Ni and Ag/Bi‐11Ag joints were fabricated. EDX analysis was used for the study of the solder interaction with the surface of the three metallic substrates.FindingsThe best wettability at soldering in a shielding atmosphere was achieved with silver. The wetting angle at 30 min attained the value of 23°. The worst wettability was observed on copper, where at 30 min the wetting angle was 55°. Average shear strength varied from 31 to 45 MPa. The highest strength was obtained with the Cu substrate whereas the lowest was with the Ni substrate. The lowest strength achieved with the Ni substrate was caused by formation of brittle intermetallic phase NiBi3. Joint formation is realised by eutectic reaction at the contact of Bi with the surface of the copper substrate. Similar joint formation by eutectic reaction occurs also at Bi interaction with the surface of the Ag substrate. At Bi interaction with the nickel substrate a new intermetallic phase (NiBi3) is formed.Originality/valueWettability of Bi‐11Ag solder on Cu, Ag and Ni substrates was determined at application of a shielding atmosphere (90% N2+10% H2). Wettability was determined also at application of ZnCl2‐NH4Cl flux. The shear strength of Bi‐11Ag on different substrates was determined. The mechanism of joint formation was analysed.
The embeddedness of accounting outsourcing relationships
Authors: Elharidy Ali M. , Nicholson Brian , Scapens Robert 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThis paper aims to improve understanding of how management control systems (MCS) are influenced by local contexts in outsourcing relationships, drawing on a multi‐layer analysis of embeddedness.Design/methodology/approachData were gathered through a field study of 15 Egyptian firms that outsourced various forms of accounting services to third party suppliers.FindingsThe findings indicate that managers make their control choices based on the nature of their “embedded relationships” with suppliers. The embeddedness analysis demonstrates the influence of context on MCS implementation.Research limitations/implicationsThere is a paucity of studies focussing on how context affects control in outsourcing relationships. The paper provides a detailed framework and a rich empirically‐based explanation of the findings.Practical implicationsThe findings have implications for the practice of accounting outsourcing and provide a conceptual framework of relevance to management practice.Originality/valueA conceptual framework for understanding embeddedness is presented, which is illustrated with empirical evidence from multiple case analyses to illustrate how the implementation of MCS is influenced by context.
A geometric process maintenance model and optimal policy
Authors: Lam Yeh 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study a geometric process (GP) maintenance model and policy for a repairable system.Design/methodology/approachLam first introduced the GP and its application to maintenance model. Assume that a replacement policy N is applied by which the system will be replaced by a new, identical one following the Nth failure.FindingsFor a deteriorating system, an optimal replacement policy is determined analytically, and the monotonicity properties of the optimal replacement policy are then studied.Originality/valueFor an improving system, the paper shows that the optimal replacement policy is the ∞ policy, i.e., the policy without replacement.
Public construction project delivery process in Singapore, Beijing, Hong Kong and Sydney
Authors: Ke Yongjian , Ling Florence Y.Y. , Ning Yan 
Published: March 2013

PurposeTo perform well in the risky and competitive international construction markets, foreign investors need to fully understand project delivery process in their targeted overseas markets. Singapore, Beijing, Hong Kong and Sydney were selected to be studied in this paper. The aim of this paper is to provide a comparative analysis of the funding source, organization, regulations, approval process, procurement method, and bid evaluation procedure of public projects in four cities. It also investigated the performance outcomes of public projects in these cities.Design/methodology/approachThe research method was a multi‐city structured questionnaire survey conducted in Singapore, Hong Kong, Beijing and Sydney. Data were collected from respondents who have been involved in public construction projects. The data collection methods include email and postal surveys and face‐to‐face interviews.FindingsIt was found that Beijing has the largest market of public construction projects among the four cities, and has the most indistinct and complicated project process. The majority of the public clients in the four cities have on‐going projects, suggesting a good level of construction sophistication. Traditional design‐bid‐build delivery method is the most frequently used in Beijing, Hong Kong and Singapore. Most of the respondents in Hong Kong, Sydney and Singapore were satisfied with the project quality and service quality. About 60 percent of the project samples in the four cities experienced budget overrun and schedule delay.Originality/valueThe study adds to knowledge by providing information on procurement of public construction projects in four cities. The findings may inform foreign enterprises that are planning to enter these markets on the ways to deal with public construction projects there. Foreign enterprises that plan to venture other parts of the world may consider the factors identified in this study to evaluate the projects there.
Quantifying robustness in PFIs
Authors: Sundaraj Gerald , Eaton David 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to define and quantify the term robustness within the context of a Private Finance Initiative (PFI) project environment from the perspective of the Granting Authority. The paper is conceptual, based on conceptual generalisations.Design/methodology/approachThe paper considers the theory of systems thinking within PFI procurement. This is further integrated with the concept of robustness and resilience used extensively in the ecology discipline. Combining the two, this paper presents a mathematical approach of quantifying robustness in PFI projects.FindingsAn analytical model is used to support the mathematical analysis to quantify and define robustness.Research limitations/implicationsThe quantifying of robustness is based on the principal assumptions presented in the paper. The principal assumptions provide an ideal situation which is necessary to pursue and develop the proposed approach to quantify robustness. Changes to the assumptions may affect the generalisability of the approach.Originality/valueThe paper provides a greater definition to robustness within PFI projects and the possibility of quantifying robustness to better monitor and manage the characteristic.
The influence of the building shape on the costs of its construction
Authors: Belniak Stanisław , Leśniak Agnieszka , Plebankiewicz Edyta , Zima Krzysztof 
Published: March 2013

PurposeThe choice of a particular architectural solution when designing a building considerably influences the costs of its construction. The aim of this paper is to present the indexes which may relate to the complexity of the building shape, and which were then specified and compared on a particular example.Design/methodology/approachThe article analyses various indices of building shape evaluation, their influence on the changes in construction costs and their sensitivity to the changes in the dimensions of the building. The methodology adopted in this article concerns the analysis of the selected simple factors assessing the shape of the building against the cost‐effectiveness of constructing the basic elements of the building.FindingsThe authors established the best building shape in relation to the costs of constructing the walls and foundations (square), and to the layout of the inside of the building (rectangle). They believe that the best evaluations of building shape were achieved by the LBI index, which evaluated the shape correctly in all of the analysed examples and which is the most sensitive to the changes in building parameters in correct proportions to the changes in construction costs.Originality/valueThe article presents the indexes which may relate to the complexity of the building shape. The authors established the best building shape in relation to the costs of constructing. The authors provide the degree of the floor area usability in buildings of various shapes.