bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A brief appraisal of genus Potamogeton L. in the Kashmir valley.
Authors: Ganie A. H. , Reshi Z. A. , Wafai B. A. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract

This chapter briefly covers the geographical distribution (Asia, South America, North America, Europe, Australia and Africa), growth form and habitat preference, modes of reproduction, and invasion status of Potamogeton spp. in Kashmir Valley, India.
Invasive alien plants in tropical forests of the South-eastern Ghats, India: ecology and management.
Authors: Parthasarathy N. , Pragasan L. A. , Muthumperumal C. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract

This chapter presents a study on the diversity and ecology of invasive alien plants in the forests of the southern Eastern Ghats, and some measures to control the spread of invasive species. The study was conducted in the tropical forests of six major hill complexes in Tamil Nadu, India, i.e. Bodamalais (BM), Chitteris (CH), Kalrayan (KA), Kolli hills (KO), Pachamalais (PM) and Shervarayans (SH). Of the 47 alien species, herb diversity was greatest (26 species), followed by trees (12 species), lianas (6 species) and shrubs (3 species). Total and alien species diversity and abundance of woody species (trees and lianas) varied across the sites. A positive correlation was observed between total tree and liana diversity, between total tree and liana abundance, and between alien tree and alien liana diversity, but not between alien tree and liana abundance. The most abundant alien species included Acacia farnesiana and Tamarindus indica among the trees, and Lantana camara and Rubus niveus among the lianas. In general, the diaspores of the alien invasive plants are dispersed by the autochorous mode (53%), followed by zoochory (38%) and anemochory (9%). The trees and lianas with fleshy fruits (berry or drupe) are largely dispersed by the zoochorous mode, followed by the shrubs. The autochorous mode of dispersal was prevalent in herbs. Among the sites, BM recorded the highest disturbance score, followed by PM, CH, KA, KO and SH. The diversity of total and alien tree species was negatively correlated with site disturbance scores.
Plant invasions in Jammu and Kashmir state, India.
Authors: Khuroo A. A. , Reshi Z. A. , Dar G. H. , Hamal I. A. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract

This chapter summarizes research on plant invasions in Jammu and Kashmir, India. A conceptual framework that has been followed to study plant invasions within the state is outlined, and a critical review of the progress in plant invasion research in three distinct regions (Kashmir, Jammu and Ladakh) is presented. Current knowledge gaps and future challenges to a better scientific understanding and management of plant invasions in the state are discussed.
Economics of invasive alien species.
Authors: Vinish Kathuria Vinish Kathuria , Singh S. P. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract

This chapter discusses why the management or spread of invasive alien species (IAS) is an economic issue, and summarizes the economic impact of invasive species at the international scale. The economic impact of IAS in India and efforts to control the spread of IAS in the region are covered. Issues with regard to the control of IAS are discussed. Tabulated data on sources of invasive species and their economic impact in agricultural, coastal, forest, freshwater and grassland ecosystems, and on the economic impact of Prosopis juliflora are presented.
Control of Lantana and restoration of biodiversity in reserve forests of Chandigarh: a case study.
Authors: Ishwar Singh Ishwar Singh 
Published: December 2011

Abstract

This chapter briefly discusses the ecological and environmental impacts of L. camara, and describes management strategies (removal of the causes of weed infestation and physical removal of L. camara) for the eradication of this invasive weed in forest reserves in Chandigarh, India, including the Sukhna Wildlife Sanctuary.
Safety Assessment and Pharmacokinetics of Intrathecal Methylprednisolone Acetate in Dogs
Authors: Rijsdijk Mienke , van Wijck Albert J. M. , Kalkman Cor J. , Meulenhoff P. C. Willem , Grafe Marjorie R. , Steinauer Joanne , Yaksh Tony L. 
Published: December 2011

Background
Intrathecal methylprednisolone acetate (MPA) has been used in patients with chronic pain syndromes. Its safety has been debated after reports of adverse events. No systematic preclinical evaluation of MPA has been reported. In the current study, the acute and long-term effects of intrathecal MPA on dog spinal tissue was studied with the injectate reformulated to include minimal adjuvants.

Methods
Seventeen dogs were implanted with intrathecal catheters and randomized to three groups: vehicle (lidocaine; 4 dogs), MPA 20 mg/ml (human dose; 7 dogs), and MPA 80 mg/ml (maximum deliverable dose; 6 dogs). In parallel with the human protocols, dogs received four injections at 7-day intervals. Clinical observations and plasma methylprednisolone measurements were done before and at intervals after intrathecal delivery. One week (acute) or 6 weeks (long-term) after the last injection, animals were sacrificed and spinal tissues harvested for histopathology.

Results
Other than a brief motor block, no adverse clinical event occurred in any animal. Group A (vehicle) showed minimal histologic changes (median histology-score; acute: 1.3, long-term: 1.0). Group B (MPA 20 mg/ml) had a diffuse inflammatory reaction (acute: 2.0, long-term: 3.0), group C (MPA 80 mg/ml) a severe inflammatory response, with large inflammatory masses (acute: 4.0, long-term: 7.0) The severity of the inflammatory reaction increased significantly with increasing dose at long-term sacrifice (acute P = 0.167, long-term P = 0.014). No neuronal injury, demyelination, or gliosis was seen in any animal.

Conclusion
These results, showing dose-dependent intrathecal inflammatory reactions at MPA doses and injectate concentrations comparable to those used in humans, indicate that the continued use of this modality in humans is not recommended.
Predictors of Pain Relieving Response to Sympathetic Blockade in Complex Regional Pain Syndrome Type 1
Authors: van Eijs Frank , Geurts José , van Kleef Maarten , Faber Catharina G. , Perez Roberto S. , Kessels Alfons G.H. , Van Zundert Jan 
Published: December 2011

Background
Sympathetic blockade with local anesthetics is used frequently in the management of complex regional pain syndrome type 1(CRPS-1), with variable degrees of success in pain relief. The current study investigated which signs or symptoms of CRPS-1 could be predictive of outcome. The incidence of side effects and complications of sympathetic blockade also were determined prospectively.

Methods
A prospective observational study was done of 49 patients with CRPS-1 in one extremity only and for less than 1-yr duration who had severe pain and persistent functional impairment with no response to standard treatment with medication and physical therapy.

Results
Fifteen (31%) patients had good or moderate response. The response rate was not different in patient groups with cold or warm type CRPS-1 or in those with more or less than 1.5°C differential increase in skin temperature after sympathetic blockade. Allodynia and hypoesthesia were negative predictors for treatment success in CRPS-1. There were no symptoms or signs of CRPS-1 that positively predicted treatment success. A majority of patients (84%) experienced transient side effects such as headache, dysphagia, increased pain, backache, nausea, blurred vision, groin pain, hoarseness, and hematoma at the puncture site. No major complications were reported.

Conclusions
The presence of allodynia and hypoesthesia are negative predictors for treatment success. The selection of sympathetic blockade as treatment for CRPS-1 should be balanced carefully between potential success and side effect ratio. The procedure is as likely to cause a transient increase in pain as a decrease in pain. Patients should be informed accordingly.
Control of Starch Granule Numbers in Arabidopsis Chloroplasts
Authors: Crumpton-Taylor Matilda , Grandison Scott , Png Kenneth M.Y. , Bushby Andrew J. , Smith Alison M. 
Published: December 2011

Abstract
The aim of this work was to investigate starch granule numbers in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) leaves. Lack of quantitative information on the extent of genetic, temporal, developmental, and environmental variation in granule numbers is an important limitation in understanding control of starch degradation and the mechanism of granule initiation. Two methods were developed for reliable estimation of numbers of granules per chloroplast. First, direct measurements were made on large series of consecutive sections of mesophyll tissue obtained by focused ion beam-scanning electron microscopy. Second, average numbers were calculated from the starch contents of leaves and chloroplasts and estimates of granule mass based on granule dimensions. Examination of wild-type plants and accumulation and regulation of chloroplast (arc) mutants with few, large chloroplasts provided the following new insights. There is wide variation in chloroplast volumes in cells of wild-type leaves. Granule numbers per chloroplast are correlated with chloroplast volume, i.e. large chloroplasts have more granules than small chloroplasts. Mature leaves of wild-type plants and arc mutants have approximately the same number of granules per unit volume of stroma, regardless of the size and number of chloroplasts per cell. Granule numbers per unit volume of stroma are also relatively constant in immature leaves but are greater than in mature leaves. Granule initiation occurs as chloroplasts divide in immature leaves, but relatively little initiation occurs in mature leaves. Changes in leaf starch content over the diurnal cycle are largely brought about by changes in the volume of a fixed number of granules.
Personalization in library databases: not persuasive enough?
Authors: McLaughlin Jean E. 
Published: December 2011

PurposeThe intersection of persuasive technology and personalization features in enterprises such as Amazon.com delivers familiar consumer web interactions related to the purchase of goods. This paper aims to describe the intersection in terms of academic library database personalization features, persuasive technology, and student research.Design/methodology/approachThe paper compares personalization features in popular academic library databases and a case study of usage in a university system provides a perspective on use in the academic community. Research on student use of technology related to databases and Web 2.0 provides information on potential and actual use of personalization features.FindingsPersonalization and filtering features of research databases and the evolving Web 2.0 technology platform offer helpful tools to researchers, but the technology may not be persuasive enough to make significant changes in research behavior. Usage statistics indicate that personalization features are used, but compared to total enrollment, use is not high. There is much room for extension of persuasive elements in library databases.Research limitations/implicationsThere are many areas for exploration in determining how personalization may best be used in the future. This includes observing trends in usage, understanding users and their needs, and future technology changes.Practical implicationsLibrarians can provide instruction about personalization in library databases in multiple forms. Suggestions for extensions of technology provide a view of possible personalization enhancements including persuasive elements.Originality/valueThe description of the intersection of personalization and persuasive technology in the academic library database environment is unique. The paper's comparison of personalization features of academic library databases provides a view of features and options within popular library databases.
Millennials and the adoption of new technologies in libraries through the diffusion of innovations process
Authors: Blackburn Heidi 
Published: December 2011

PurposeLiterature on the features of new technology in libraries of every type and size is readily available, but looking at the factors playing a part in the process (relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, trialability and observability) will bring an understanding of how Millennials integrate technology into libraries. This paper seeks to discuss some of the issues involved.Design/methodology/approachThis research focuses on Millennials and their adoption of new technologies in libraries through the process of diffusion and the stages of adoption as outlined by Everett Rogers: communication through certain channels; over time; and among members of a social system. Among these sections, Millennials as innovators and early adopters are explored, as well as the five stages of the innovation decision process.FindingsLibraries have increasingly seen technology become a quick candidate as a solution to nearly every problem existing in the field. Though rapidly suggested as an alternative, the new technology is not adopted as quickly as in other sectors. However, Millennials act as change agents and bring technology‐driven attitudes to work, using specific communication channels to change employee attitudes towards adoption of the new tools.Originality/valueAlthough applied to different fields, few studies have been conducted using the theory of diffusion in library science with a focus on innovation; rather the focus has been on technology adoption. The paper highlights how looking at the overarching trend, instead of focusing on the specifics of one single technology tool, will help researchers, administrators and practitioners understand the paradigm shift in the rapid adoption of such tools overall.
Role of policies in collaborative design process for digital libraries within African higher education
Authors: Ngimwa Pauline , Adams Anne 
Published: December 2011

PurposeThis paper aims to explore the role of institutional and national policies in the design process of educational digital libraries developed collaboratively with key stakeholders within the African higher education context.Design/methodology/approachA qualitative research project based on three case studies of universities in Africa (Uganda, Kenya, Uganda) was carried out; comprising a retrospective review of the design process of ten innovative digital libraries through 38 in‐depth interviews with key design stakeholders. The interviews were conducted between September and December, 2009, while the data were triangulated with observations and documentary evidence from key policies.FindingsInstitutional and national policies were found to have tremendous impact on the design process of digital libraries as well as on their sustainability. Their absence in the design process was found to stifle innovation.Research limitations/implicationsThis research was limited to the design process of digital libraries in African higher education. The research findings suggest that policy makers are important design gatekeepers and as such digital library designers should actively review relevant national and institutional policies, incorporate the implications of policies into design processes, and help to develop relevant policies.Originality/valueThe paper provides an understanding of the critical impact policies have with respect to supporting the design of educational digital libraries that are developed collaboratively with stakeholders. The retrospective review of completed digital library design processes carried out offers a different methodological approach for obtaining a high level understanding of the phenomenon under investigation.
Evaluation of the resource utilization efficiency of university libraries using DEA techniques and a proposal of alternative evaluation variables
Authors: Noh Younghee 
Published: December 2011

PurposeThis paper seeks to rediscover the most suitable efficiency evaluation variables (input and output variables) for digital libraries and to employ the data envelopment analysis (DEA) model to measure the resource utilization efficiency of university libraries.Design/methodology/approachIn order to analyze and evaluate university library efficiency, the paper introduces the DEA‐CCR Model and the DEA‐BCC Model. Based on these research tools, the Technical Efficiency (CCR*BCC) was determined. First, a reference group was created with a 100 percent efficiency rate, then the factors contributing to inefficient DMUs were analyzed, and the difference in the efficiency rate compared according to the different governing bodies of the libraries. Finally, the difference of efficiency according to the introduction and rejection of electronic resources was analyzed. It was possible to measure the technical efficiency, pure‐technical efficiency, and scale efficiency.FindingsThe results showed that the efficiency of university libraries varied significantly according to whether or not electronic resources were included in the evaluation. In addition, the findings confirmed decision making units (DMUs) have a 100 percent efficiency rate and a low efficiency rate as well as proposed benchmarking DMUs for inefficient DMUs and a direction for future improvements.Originality/valueThe paper identifies that there was a significant difference in efficiency, according to the presence of electronic resources in university libraries.
Personal information management (PIM), reference management and mind maps: the way to creative librarians?
Authors: Fourie Ina 
Published: December 2011

PurposeThis column aims to explore the potential of personal information management (PIM) and reference management. It focuses on combining the use of PIM and reference management software with mind maps to stimulate the creative and innovative use of information collectedDesign/methodology/approachFollowing a brief review of the literature on the topic per se, awareness is raised of appropriate software and the potential of mind maps. The column is written against the background of research from information behaviour, PIM, mind maps, creativity, innovation and the reflective and evidence‐focused librarian.FindingsThere is growing emphasis on more than information literacy skills and the responsible use of information. Creative and innovative use of information is stressed. More intensive use and exploitation of information is necessary to justify the time and effort spent in using PIM and reference management software. Mind maps and collaboration might support creative and innovative use of information, and need to be further exploited. Although software is strong in supporting collaboration, there is very limited built‐in support for the combination of features for information and reference management with features for mind maps.Originality/valueAlthough much has been published on developments in PIM and reference management, there is limited coverage of combining PIM and reference management with the use of mind maps and creativity, reflection and noting evidence.
Rethinking budgetary slack as budget risk management
Authors: Elmassri Moataz , Harris Elaine 
Published: December 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to draw on a small‐scale study that investigated the relationships between the budget‐setting process and slack, and how budgetary, behavioural and contextual factors can affect this relationship, to reconceptualise the phenomenon of budgetary slack as a budget risk management strategy.Design/methodology/approachA case study method was employed, which enabled the researchers to investigate factors suggested by prior literature that affect slack creation. In total, nine structured interviews were conducted in a state‐owned Egyptian petroleum company, which gave the researchers a different way of thinking about the budget slack phenomenon.FindingsThe authors found that slack is created, but not perceived negatively by managers, wherever they are in the organisational hierarchy. Few factors from the literature appeared to have any effect on the creation of budgetary slack, but the covert view of budget slack as a negative behaviour, adopted by early literature was perceived by participants as unethical and inconsistent with Egyptian culture. Managers did not recognise the notion of budgetary slack, though a “contingency” was created and was seen as entirely rational and acceptable by both superiors and subordinates. These findings are consistent with more recent literature in taking a more positive view, and with risk management thinking.Research limitations/implicationsThe evidence from this small study in a single organisation obviously cannot be generalised to the whole population. More research is needed in different contexts in order to discover whether managers may perceive this link between budget contingencies and risk management. Also, further research may explore the ethical dimension of behaviour and its possible foundation in religious values and beliefs, to see if this influences how building “contingencies” into budgets is perceived.Practical implicationsIf we were to stop portraying the creation of budgetary slack as a negative behaviour and accept that practitioners find it acceptable in managing budgets in an uncertain economic environment, more managers may be open about it.Originality/valueThe main contribution of this paper is that it proposes that what was originally described as a negative behavioural phenomenon be rethought as a positive risk management strategy. Though other authors have viewed budget slack more positively, none has made the explicit link to risk management. The authors reposition budget slack in terms of contingency planning and show how this is consistent with risk management thinking.
Tacit knowledge barriers in franchising: practical solutions
Authors: Cumberland Denise , Githens Rod 
Published: December 2011

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to identify barriers that hinder tacit knowledge transfer in a franchise environment and offer a compendium of solutions that encourage franchisees and franchisors to leverage tacit knowledge as a resource for competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approachDrawing from the research on franchise organizations there are five barriers to tacit knowledge transfer that present a challenge to both vertical and horizontal information flow in a franchise environment. It is suggested that when specific behaviors and processes are adopted to encourage sharing tacit knowledge it is possible to reduce tension and promote collaboration in the franchise relationship.FindingsBarriers to tacit knowledge transfer in franchise organizations include: Trust, Maturation, Communication, Competition, and Culture. Ideas for fostering knowledge sharing are offered.Research limitations/implicationsThe factors identified only partially explain why there may be resistance to sharing tacit knowledge between franchisees and franchisors. Solutions recommended will need further testing to assess their impact on creating cultures that embrace tacit knowledge sharing.Practical implicationsFor franchisors and franchisees to encourage tacit knowledge sharing they will need to recognize and value what each player contributes to the relationship.Originality/valueThe identification of specific barriers to tacit knowledge transfer in franchise environment sets the stage for future work that can expand on solutions in the franchise context that potentially has economic and psychological benefits for both parties.