bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Natural Variation of Transcriptional Auxin Response Networks inArabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Delker Carolin , Pöschl Yvonne , Raschke Anja , Ullrich Kristian , Ettingshausen Stefan , Hauptmann Valeska , Grosse Ivo , Quint Marcel 
Published: July 2010

AbstractNatural variation has been observed for various traits in Arabidopsis thaliana. Here, we investigated natural variation in the context of physiological and transcriptional responses to the phytohormone auxin, a key regulator of plant development. A survey of the general extent of natural variation to auxin stimuli revealed significant physiological variation among 20 genetically diverse natural accessions. Moreover, we observed dramatic variation on the global transcriptome level after induction of auxin responses in seven accessions. Although we detect isolated cases of major-effect polymorphisms, sequencing of signaling genes revealed sequence conservation, making selective pressures that favor functionally different protein variants among accessions unlikely. However, coexpression analyses of a priori defined auxin signaling networks identified variations in the transcriptional equilibrium of signaling components. In agreement with this, cluster analyses of genome-wide expression profiles followed by analyses of a posteriori defined gene networks revealed accession-specific auxin responses. We hypothesize that quantitative distortions in the ratios of interacting signaling components contribute to the detected transcriptional variation, resulting in physiological variation of auxin responses among accessions.
Case study: building an internal coaching capacity – the American Cancer Society coach cadre model
Authors: Ali Yumna , Lewis Nicole , Currier McAdams Kimberly 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to outline the steps and process used by the American Cancer Society, a not for profit organization, when creating and implementing an internal coaching capacity.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines in detail the design, implementation, successes, and key learning points of the creation of an internal coaching program.FindingsOrganizations can build an internal coaching capacity utilizing current talent and limited external resources to benefit the development of targeted staff.Practical implicationsThe paper details steps to build a coaching cadre.Originality/valueThe paper provides an alternative to buying coaching for an organization and outlines the multiple benefits to building an internal capacity.
Jaguar Land Rover “transition to high performance” training program
Authors: Hicks Jez , Upton Stephen 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe a training program that was specifically designed to underpin the launch of a new behavior framework and performance management process, required to support the pace of organizational change in the face of increasingly competitive market demands.Design/methodology/approachThe core focus of the training program was on practical skills acquisition reinforced by role‐play, using performance management conversation scenarios designed to reflect the daily business context of the participants – therefore enabling direct transfer of skills back to the workplace. The impact of the training program was greatly enhanced by allowing participants to practice the techniques being taught, before attempting to apply them in their performance management conversations with their respective team members.FindingsThe training program resulted in the successful launch of the new behavior framework and performance management process, and engagement of the management population in applying the new process consistently: with a significant increase in evidence‐based assessment and an associated willingness by the participants to conduct appropriate difficult performance‐related conversations in their line management roles.Originality/valueThe design and methodology of this performance management training program will be of value to a wide range of organizations across all business sectors seeking to implement a behavior framework‐based performance management process; and needing to increase the skills and effectiveness of line managers in addressing performance issues in their respective teams.
How can employee engagement be improved at the RRG Group? Part 1
Authors: Evans Cheryl A. , Redfern David C. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis is the first of two papers that concern employee engagement, this one aims to review the literature and the second, to be in the next edition, aims to look at a detailed study at a large UK motor vehicle retailer the RRG Group.Design/methodology/approachThe aim was to assess the main factors encouraging or preventing employee engagement, with specific reference to those employed within certain branches. The methods used were: assessing the qualitative data through attitudinal surveys, analyzing complete customer satisfaction (CCS) scores and telephone interviews with former employees.FindingsResearch suggests that employees are fairly constant in how involved they are in their jobs and organizations, or how alienated they have become. However, it is more realistic to assume that reactions to work fluctuate over a period of time. The link between employee engagement and work performance is explored.Practical implicationsThe second part will, in the next edition, discuss with reference to research in the motor retail sector the key role of management in creating and maintaining an engaged workforce.Originality/valueThe fluctuating nature of engagement is explored in the context of the management role in enhancing work performance.
The fabrication and assembly of nanoelectronic devices
Authors: Bogue Robert 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to provide a review of recent developments in nanoelectronic devices, with an emphasis on the materials and fabrication technologies employed.Design/methodology/approachThis paper focuses on three critical fields of nanoelectronics: integrated circuits (ICs), sensors and displays. It describes recent developments and considers the materials and techniques used in their fabrication.FindingsThis paper shows that nanoelectronic developments, particularly experimental ICs, are progressing very rapidly but all manner of different materials and non‐standard fabrication processes are involved. Major efforts are underway to develop simple and cost‐effective techniques which will allow the high volume production of suitable nanomaterials and their incorporation into commercial nanoelectronic devices.Originality/valueThe paper provides an up‐to‐date review of nanoelectronic device developments and fabrication technologies.
A flexible joints microassembly robot with metamorphic gripper
Authors: Bruzzone Luca , Bozzini Giorgio 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report research which led to the realization of a robot for miniaturized assembly endowed with high‐accuracy and high‐operative flexibility.Design/methodology/approachThe proposed solution is a microassembly system composed of a Cartesian parallel robot with flexure revolute joints and a modular gripper with metamorphic fingertips, capable of adapting their shape to different micro‐objects. The fingertips are realized by electro‐discharge machining from a sheet of superelastic alloy. Thanks to its modularity, the gripper can be arranged with two opposite fingers or three fingers placed at 120°. The fingers are actuated by a piezoelectric linear motor with nanometric accuracy.FindingsThe experimental results on the prototype are very interesting. The measured positioning accuracy of the linear motors is 0.5 μm; the end‐effector positioning accuracy is lower, due to the non‐perfect kinematics and hysteresis of the flexure joints; however, these effects can be compensated by the direct measurement of the end effector position or by visual feedback. The metamorphic design of the fingertips remarkably increases the grasping force; moreover, the grasping is more stable and reliable.Practical implicationsThe introduction of this microassembly system can fulfil the needs of a wide range of industrial applications, thanks to its accurate positioning in a relatively large workspace. The cost of the machine is relatively low, thanks to its modularity.Originality/valueThe combination of Cartesian parallel kinematics, cog‐free linear motors and superelastic flexure revolute joints allows one to obtain high‐positioning accuracy; the metamorphic fingertips enhance the grasping effectiveness and flexibility.
Simple assembly line balancing problem under the combinations of the effects of learning and deterioration
Authors: Duran Toksarı M. , İşleyen Selçuk K. , Güner Ertan , Faruk Baykoç Ömer 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to describe the introduction of simple assembly line balancing problems (SALBPs) under four joint combinations of two learning effects and two deterioration effects.Design/methodology/approachIn this paper, effects of learning and deterioration are considered simultaneously. By the effects of learning and deterioration, it is meant that the task time of a task is defined by increasing function of its execution start time and position in the sequence.FindingsIt was shown that polynomial solutions can be obtained for SALBP under four joint combinations of two learning effects and two deterioration effects. Furthermore, this paper also discusses the adaptations of the proposed models by using known ALB problem.Originality/valueIn this paper, SALBPs were introduced under four joint combinations of two learning effects and two deterioration effects. Position dependent learning effect and time dependent learning effect were considered for learning effect when linear deterioration effect and non‐linear deterioration effect were taken up.
Structures oscillations monitoring with global positioning system and adaptive filtering techniques
Authors: Larocca Ana Paula C. , Ernesto Schaal Ricardo , Simões da Fonseca Edvaldo 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis paper aims to detect small dynamic displacements by analysis of L1 Global Positioning System carrier frequency using an improved method for collecting data and filtering techniques on monitoring large structures. It is proposed to analyze the phase residuals directly from the raw phase observable data collected in a short baseline during a limited time span, in lieu of obtaining the residual data file from regular GPS processing programs.Design/methodology/approachThe approach of this paper is an update on the method based on the interferometer idea for analyzing the Global Positioning Systems signals applying adaptive filtering techniques on the phase residuals computed through the double difference adjusted by the 3rd order polynomial. The method is based on the frequency domain analysis of the phase residuals resulted from the L1 double difference static data processing of only two satellites.FindingsThis research improves the ability to characterize the dynamic behavior of large structures though the detection of millimeter‐level data of structural amplitude oscillation response and its frequency value.Practical implicationsSupport of Civil Engineers by collaboration on monitoring oscillations of spans and towers of large bridges; determination of amplitude oscillations value and low‐frequency modal values. The paper presents two trials to verify the proposed methodology for using GPS as a tool for monitoring large structures.Originality/valueThe paper presents a comprehensive framework and implementation approach to demonstrate the capabilities of Global Positioning System as a tool for monitoring large structures providing accurate response data at high levels of precision.
An assessment of supply chain managers' trust in online auctions
Authors: Nadler S. Scott , Kros John F. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this study is to empirically test the levels of trust supply chain managers exhibit regarding online auctions. The study seeks to test the hypotheses that supply chain managers with higher levels of trust in online auctions would exhibit more familiarity with online auctions, more positive relationships with suppliers, stronger focus on cost management, a stronger focus on revenue enhancement, and greater levels of participation.Design/methodology/approachA review of the extant literature provided the basis for the development of an online pilot study that was e‐mailed to 100 supply chain managers. The results of the pilot study were used to develop an online survey instrument that was e‐mailed to 2,313 current members of the Council of Supply Chain Management Professionals (CSCMP) and the Institute of Supply Management. A total of 213 usable questionnaires were returned, resulting in a 9.2 percent response rate.FindingsThe data were analyzed via t‐test, MANOVA and ANOVA. The study indicated that online auction users exhibit high levels of trust in online auctions. The study also found that those with higher levels of familiarity with online auctions, with stronger positive relationships with online auction suppliers, and with stronger focus on cost management also exhibited higher levels of trust in online auctions. Contrary to expectations study findings indicate that higher levels of perceived firm profitability and of online auction participation do not lead to increased levels of trust in online auctions.Practical implicationsThe study provides a number of important implications. First, it is important for supply chain managers to recognize the important role that trust continues to play in business relationships. Supply chain managers are advised to be cognizant of the fact that some suppliers may be reluctant to participate in online auctions because they fear participation might damage customer relationships that they have spent years cultivating. Finally, supply chain managers are advised to consider the use of online auctions in order to achieve cost management objectives.Originality/valueThe research makes an important contribution to the literature because it seeks to assess supply chain managers' level of trust in online auctions and how this impacts on the extent to which they participate in this exchange mechanism. An equally important contribution provided by the research is that it focuses on the level of trust in online auctions in general, whereas the preponderance of past research has focused on reverse or price descending auctions only.
The underlying social identities of a nation's brand
Authors: Lee Richard , Klobas Jane , Tezinde Tito , Murphy Jamie 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to draw on self‐categorisation theory and nation branding to investigate the social identities and influences which underpin consumer preferences for national brands.Design/methodology/approachA survey in Mozambique, an underdeveloped African country, compared a domestic mobile phone company whose brand contains the country name against a European brand. Consumer ethnocentrism might arise identifying with the national brand or with Mozambican personalities endorsing the brand. Value‐expressiveness might arise from consumers associating with celebrity endorsers. A dichotomy of youth versus older consumers moderated the relationships between social identities and brand preference. Bayesian structural equation modelling using Monte Carlo simulations estimated the path coefficients from a sample of 611.FindingsAcross age groups, ethnocentrism is stronger than value‐expressiveness in determining preference for national brands. Moreover, ethnocentrism is stronger with the older rather than younger consumers. Consumer ethnocentrism stemmed mainly from injunctive influence (IN) with both age groups. With older consumers, value‐expressiveness related significantly to descriptive influence, but not to IN. With youth, neither social influence significantly related to value‐expressiveness.Research limitations/implicationsSingle‐item measures might be less effective than multi‐item measures for psychological concepts of social identities and influences.Practical implicationsUnderstanding the role of social identity in consumer preferences for national brands may help managers heighten consumers' social identities and increase their loyalty for national brands. Shedding light on under‐researched African consumers may help firms doing business in these emerging markets as well as African governments that are attempting to strengthen the perceptions of their nation brand.Originality/valueThis paper bridges research in social psychology and international marketing by investigating the social identities and influences that underpin consumer preferences for national brands.
Study on an evolving complex network with fixed number of vertices
Authors: Fang Aili , Zhang Siying , Wang Zhenling 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to propose a complex network model which can study the specified objects in a complex system within which the number of agents is fixed while the interactions and the outside environments are evolving with time.Design/methodology/approachThe complex network model is analyzed by the master equation method and the rigorous four‐step statistical test is applied to test whether the degree distribution in the real world fits power law or not.FindingsBy theoretical analysis, the vertex degrees of the model follow power law distribution p(k)∼k−2 which is different from that of the Barabási‐Albert model. By empirical research, the result shows that the citations of papers published in 2001 on the small‐world networks follow a power law distribution which is tested by the statistical test.Research limitations/implicationsThe small sample and short evolving time may cause some deviation from the theoretical expectation.Practical implicationsThis evolving complex network model with fixed number of vertices and the statistical test process for power‐law will have a great significance for the theoretical and empirical study on complex networks.Originality/valueThis paper presents a new model of evolving complex networks which can be used to analyze the specified objects in a dynamic system and a quantitative method for power law test.
A committee machine with two‐layer expert nets
Authors: Jin Jian , Liang Dao‐Lei , Bao Yu , Huang Guo‐Xing 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a committee machine (CM) with two‐layer expert nets to overcome the lack of approximating ability of CM with single‐layer expert nets.Design/methodology/approachA frequently used structure of CM, with a fuzzy c‐means clustering algorithm as splitting and combining unit and some single‐layer linear neural nets as expert modules, was applied to short‐term climate prediction. Considering the complexity of the climate conditions, use was made of two‐layer back propagation (BP) neural nets instead of single‐layer linear nets to test the effect of the model. Experiments were performed on both synthetic and realistic climatic data.FindingsPrediction accuracy is raised when the BP nets were used and as the number of hidden neurons increased at some stages. It implies that improving the approximating ability of individual expert module of a CM is beneficial.Research limitations/implicationsThe optimal learning rate, the optimal cluster numbers and the maximal number of iteration were not well treated.Practical implicationsThe paper is a useful alternative worth consideration for the complicated prediction problems.Originality/valueA CM with two‐layer expert nets are presented. Comparisons are made between CMs with simple and complex expert nets.
A predicting algorithm of RNA secondary structure based on stems
Authors: Liu Zhendong , Li Hengwu , Zhu Daming 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to design an algorithm to predict RNA secondary structure, compared with other relevant algorithm, its time complexity and space complexity are reduced.Design/methodology/approachThe dynamic programming algorithm need more time and space; it is very difficult to predict the RNA secondary structure which have more 1,000 bases. The nested RNA secondary structure algorithms cannot predict the RNA secondary structure containing pseudoknots, so the fast algorithm is needed to predict the RNA secondary structure containing pseudoknots urgently. Based on the greedy principle, a model is designed to solve the problem.FindingsA greedy algorithm is presented to predict RNA secondary structure.Research limitations/implicationsThe problem for predicting RNA secondary structure including pseudoknots is NP‐complete.Practical implicationsThe paper presents a valuable and useful method for predicting the RNA secondary structure.Originality/valueThe new algorithm needs O(n3) time and O(n) space; the experimental results indicate that the algorithm has good accuracy and sensitivity.
The role of cultural barriers in the relationship between open‐mindedness and organizational innovation
Authors: Hernández‐Mogollon Ricardo , Cepeda‐Carrión Gabriel , Cegarra‐Navarro Juan G. , Leal‐Millán Antonio 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThere is no empirical evidence, particularly in relation to small and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs), to support the concept of cultural barriers and how they relate to open‐mindedness (OM). Some of these cultural barriers can be linked to outdated knowledge, which can impede the adoption of new configurations. The purpose of this paper therefore is to test the role of cultural barriers in the relationship between OM and organizational innovation.Design/methodology/approachThese relationships are examined through an empirical investigation of 133 SMEs.FindingsThe results show that the relationship between OM and organizational innovation is likely to suffer if a firm does not overcome previously its cultural barriers. An explanation for this could be thatoutdated knowledge can impede the adoption of new configurations. Therefore, it is important for organizations to provide an appropriate environment for overcoming cultural barriers. Otherwise new knowledge will not be acted on or incorporated into new products and services.Originality/valueThe authors point out the importance for organizations of taking this perspective into account when they are seeking to respond proactively to the challenges thrown up by the external environment.
Finding middle ground management strategy for software development
Authors: Goldstein Zvi , Petrie David , Sherif Yosef 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to advance a dynamic programming model that encompasses critical attributes of plan‐driven development, rapid development, agile development, and the hybrid open source development. The paper aims to put forward a middle ground management strategy for software development to gain more effectiveness and efficiency in delivering projects on time and within budget.Design/methodology/approachThe paper combines narrative with argument and analysis with a dynamic programming model. The model was applied to numerical cases with different project operating costs, duration, expected setup costs for a development iteration, and business penalties for a failed iteration. Sensitivity analysis is performed by changing several parameters and observing the effects these changes have on the optimal solution.FindingsThe model delivers a middle ground management strategy for software development and obtains an optimal solution that is better than if a project used one specific development methodology.Originality/valueThe paper demonstrates how the dynamic programming model when used with middle ground management strategy would produce the ultimate goal of delivering projects on time and within budget.