bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changes in lipopolysaccharide‐ related endotoxicity of food‐borne pathogens in response to safety treatments practised in South Africa
Authors: Abraham M. , Venter P. , Lues J.F.R. , de Smidt O. , Ivanov I. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to evaluate the influence of pasteurization, ultra high temperature (UHT) treatment and sodium benzoate preservation on the LPS‐related endotoxicity of food‐borne pathogens Escherichia coli, Salmonella enteritidis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.Design/methodology/approachThe paper sees that selected bacteria were subjected to laboratory simulations of commercially used heat treatments. In the case of sodium benzoate preservation, the bacteria were grown in the presence of a sub‐lethal dose of this preservative. Cells and debris were subjected to LPS extraction, GC‐MS analyses and endotoxicity measurement with the chromogenic Limulus Amebocyte Lysate (LAL) assay.FindingsThe heat treatments and preservation method influenced the LPS‐related toxicity of each organism in a different manner. Increases in LPS‐related toxicity were noted in the LPS liberated from UHT‐treated E. coli and S. enteritidis and pasteurized E. coli and P. aeruginosa. Toxicity of the membrane associated LPS of UHT‐treated E. coli and pasteurized S. enteritidis was also elevated. Sodium benzoate resulted in E. coli cells with LPS with related toxicity levels almost double compared to that of the control cells. S. enteritidis LPS also demonstrated an increase in toxicity, while that of P. aeruginosa was rendered less toxic.Practical implicationsToxicity could still be detected even after sterilization treatments like UHT, suggesting that viability and toxicity are not necessarily connected and that the toxicity of LPS molecules that remain in food products after treatment should be considered. Although ingestion of LPS originating from Gram‐negative bacteria is a fairly new concept, the effect that these toxins might have on members of society with compromised immune systems and individuals suffering from gastrointestinal diseases cannot be ignored.Originality/valueThe paper introduces a unique insight into food safety treatment‐induced toxicological changes related to LPS originating from food‐borne organisms, a factor that is currently unexplored in the South African food industry.
A cost‐benefit evaluation framework of an electronic‐based traceability system
Authors: Chryssochoidis George , Karagiannaki Angeliki , Pramatari Katerina , Kehagia Olga 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe concept of “traceability as a strategy and mandatory initiative” has replaced that of “traceability as a cost of a business or as a voluntary responsibility”. This implies that the introduction of a traceability system should be perceived and positioned as a catalyst for better business practices. However, despite these benefits, a traceability system is also investment‐worthy. Hence, the value of investment in a traceability system constitutes a matter of considerable concern and debate for both practitioners and academics alike. This paper seeks to present a cost‐benefit evaluation applied in a natural mineral water company regarding the pilot deployment of an electronic‐based traceability system.Design/methodology/approachThis is a case based study.FindingsBased on the experience described previously, a high‐level framework is generated that any organisation can refer to as a proper guideline in order to demonstrate how the costs and benefits can be compared for overall evaluation of the deployment of any traceability system. The details of the framework are described by applying it to a specific case.Practical implicationsThe present framework has theoretical interest for replicability in a different number of food sectors.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to closing the existing gap regarding the theoretical approach that food traceability systems can adopt when their costs and benefits are investigated.
How to make meat business more effective
Authors: Goncharuk Anatoliy G. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to find ways of improving the efficiency of the meatpacking business by achievement of a few sequential aims: an estimation of efficiency, determination of its key factors, revealing of the reserves of input reduction and potential growth of efficiency, and defining the ways of its improvement.Design/methodology/approachA few models of the data envelopment analysis (DEA), three‐factor production function and other tools of competitive and international benchmarking are used to analyse the efficiency of meatpacking companies. A two‐criteria analysis tool named the efficiency‐profitability matrix is used to determine the factors that influence efficiency. The results are based on the samples of 29 Ukrainian and 53 foreign meatpacking companies.FindingsSignificant reserves of inputs reduction by the domestic meatpacking companies are revealed. The offered ways of using the potential of efficiency growth for the Ukrainian meatpacking producers are connected with the use of both their internal ability (modernization of equipment, motivation of personnel) and successful experience and resources of domestic and foreign companies through the tools of co‐operation, exchange of experience, merger or friendly acquisition.Research limitations/implicationsThe research is limited to a single industry that is explained by requirement of technology (product) homogeneity while using DEA tools.Practical implicationsThe results contain the data and recommendations that can be practicable for meatpacking companies' management, present and potential investors and proprietors.Originality/valueThis is the first study that adopts various analysis and benchmarking tools for the versatile research of efficiency in the meatpacking industry and finding ways for its improvement.
Wine and web marketing strategies
Authors: Begalli Diego , Codurri Stefano , Gaeta Davide 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the level of internet marketing in use and the web marketing strategies models implemented by the Italian Speciality Wineries (ISWs).Design/methodology/approachThe paper surveyed a sample of 272 high quality wineries. The analysis of the existing web sites has been conducted through an adapted 7Cs model. The 7Cs model data analysis has been developed both at a univariate and a multivariate level. The entrepreneur's perception of internet marketing has been analysed through a market research questionnaire.FindingsThe use of internet marketing by the ISWs is at an initial stage. “Show‐case” is the main purpose while functionality is the most important web site characteristic. Five groups of wineries have been identified through cluster analysis. The web marketing approaches implemented revolve around the choice to effect online sales. The web marketing strategies map highlights that the future development of the ISWs web marketing models goes in two different directions. The entrepreneur's perception of quality of the web site is identified in navigability parameters.Originality/valueThe paper contributes to a greater knowledge of the strategic web marketing models utilized by Italian speciality wineries. It also discusses the entrepreneur's perception of internet marketing.
Adjustable rate mortgages and the mortgage crisis
Authors: Bible Douglas S. , Joiner Gary 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to closely examine adjustable rate mortgages (ARM) made in Northwest Louisiana in order to provide a greater understanding of the causes of the high rate of defaults and potential foreclosures currently being experienced in Louisiana.Design/methodology/approachThe paper examines detailed information for all ARM recorded in a three‐month‐period.FindingsThe paper finds that at least half of the loans have highly unfavorable terms with about a third having initial rates that are at least 3 percent higher than prime mortgage rates; these initial rates are likely to increase dramatically during future adjustment periods. Many borrowers also face high interest penalties if they pay back their loans before the first adjustment period. Also notable is the fact that only 7 percent result in foreclosure. While many borrowers receive unfavorable loans, relatively few loans are held for more than six years; a probable explanation is that the borrowers realize they have agreed to less than desirable terms and subsequently decide to refinance or sell the property. The results suggest that stronger underwriting standards are an important part of developing a stable lending/housing market in the future.Originality/valueThe results may be applicable to other areas across the USA and internationally, perhaps resulting in more realistic lending standards and a decrease in future defaults, foreclosures, and turmoil in the financial markets.
Deciphering real estate investment decisions through fuzzy logic systems
Authors: Chi Man Hui Eddie , Muk Fai Lau Otto , Kak Keung Lo Tony 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the application of fuzzy logic in real estate investment in Hong Kong. There have been sufficient debates on the literature, providing the theoretical background on real estate investment decisions but there has been a lack of empirical support in this regard. This paper attempts to fill the gap between theorem and application.Design/methodology/approachThe fuzzy logic system is adopted to evaluate the situation of a real estate market with imprecise and vague information. An indicator‐portfolio, rather than a specific indicator/index usually employed by practitioners, is explored to assist investors in risk management. The result derived from this framework is then compared to the property price index. This approach provides a framework in understanding the market without statistical and mathematical models. It tries to stimulate the complex human cognitive process involving decision making.FindingsThe housing‐indicator portfolio composition produces an outcome value which is able to reflect the complexities of both the real estate market and investors' expectations. An increase of this value implies that the investment condition is becoming more positive.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper reveals that fuzzy logic can provide some insights in an intuitive manner and is capable of obtaining information not found in market data. It is particularly useful to investors without experience in mathematical modeling.Practical implicationsThis paper establishes a basic framework of fuzzy logic for real estate investment on which a base is formed as a reference for practitioners and investors. However, they should make references to the specific housing‐indicator portfolio composition in their own regions.Originality/valueThis paper has used a fuzzy logic system to assist practitioners as well as investors on decision making in real estate investment with imperfect market information. With the aid of the system, practitioners and investors are able to enhance their investment decision‐making quality by reducing the risk incurred by such uncertainties.
“Buy to let”: a popular investment?
Authors: Mellish Paul , Rhoden Maureen 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe UK “buy to let” property market is significant with over 1,024,300 “buy to let” mortgages outstanding between 1996 and 2007. This paper investigates whether the factors that encourage male and female individuals to invest in the “buy to let” property market are similar or different.Design/methodology/approachThe research is conducted through a quantitative study which examines whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages for landlords investing in the “buy to let” housing market and if these issues are perceived to be the same by male and female landlords. Through a literature review the research author critically evaluates books, papers and legislation to establish the current background information which exists on the “buy to let” market. The primary research contained within this paper is conducted through a survey questionnaire distributed to 100 landlords attending private sector landlord forums.FindingsThis paper recognises that overall male and female landlords have differing approaches to their investment decisions within the “buy to let” sector.Originality/valueThis paper establishes new learning relating to gender expectations regarding “buy to let” investments.
Hang your shingle and carry on: estate agents – the unlicensed UK profession
Authors: Shears Peter 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to address the fact that whilst most providers of professional services in the UK are regulated by means of pre‐entry qualifications or required standards, those setting themselves up as estate agents face no such impediment. This is particularly surprising in that these practitioners are centrally involved in what is often the largest and most stressful of consumer transactions.Design/methodology/approachThe paper traces the many and various attempts at establishing a regulatory framework, the many and various ways in which they failed, and current proposals for change.FindingsIt is asserted that more and better protection is owed to these vulnerable consumers. Whilst the majority of practitioners are members of one professional body or another, there remains a significant minority who are not, and that the time has come for universal regulation.Originality/valueThe paper is important in that it seeks to take a long view of a matter of public concern that has not been taken since the late 1960s.
Research evaluation and citation analysis: key issues and implications
Authors: Herther Nancy K. 
Published: June 2009

PurposeCitation and ranking information are becoming key aspects of knowledge management in academic and research institutions. By examining changing user needs and products, this paper aims to encourage information professionals to better understand and manage these resources and better respond to user needs.Design/methodology/approachLiterature reviews, work with faculty clients and initial product testing are used to present coherent information on the current climate and practice of competitive analysis of researchers and their institutions.FindingsAs more sources for citation information have become available – even many scholarly databases today offering cited reference data – the need to identify, access and manage these resources is becoming acute. Information professionals need to become more proactive in their strategies to support these applications and users.Originality/valueThis article builds on previous analyses of the roles and nature of citation analysis in research institutions and examines potential new roles and contributions that information professionals can take on to better serve their users.
SMS‐based library catalogue system: a preliminary investigation of user acceptance
Authors: Goh Tiong T. , Li Liew Chern 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate potential users' cognitive beliefs and intention to use (IU) a proposed short message service (SMS)‐based library catalogue system. The motivation for this research is the growing popularity of mobile information systems and the need to explore if SMS is a technology that libraries could tap into to enhance their services to users.Design/methodology/approachA review of literature on SMS‐based services and applications within the library sector is followed by a prototyping of an SMS‐based library catalogue system and the development of a number of hypotheses using the technology acceptance model (TAM) as the base framework. The study investigates potential users' cognitive beliefs and IU the systems as well as the effect of self‐efficacy (SE) on these. A survey questionnaire is distributed to a purposeful and convenient sample of university students who are also users of the university library online public access catalogue.FindingsThe results of the data analysis show that SE has a positive impact on the perceived ease of use (PEOU) and a negative impact on perceived usefulness (PU). The findings also show that SE does not have direct impact on IU. The overall model explains 55.2 per cent of behaviour intention in using the proposed system. This is comparable with other TAM models in the context of SMS usage.Originality/valueThere is scant research available in the literature on user acceptance of SMS‐based systems. This study and its findings provide new insights for understanding user motivation for using SMS‐based systems, specifically for SMS‐based library catalogue systems. This understanding can aid the efforts when designing and promoting the use of such systems. The study also examines SE alongside the user technology acceptance constructs of PEOU, PU and IU.
A user‐centered and evidence‐based approach for digital library projects
Authors: Somerville Mary M. , Brar Navjit 
Published: June 2009

PurposeSoft systems methodology processes fortified by collaborative evidence‐based librarianship (EBL) principles can guide end‐user involvement in digital library project design and development. This paper aims to reveal the efficacy of this inclusive human‐focused approach for building systems through user‐generated research examples.Design/methodology/approachFrom 2003 to 2006, user‐centered interaction design guided increasingly complex human‐computer interaction projects at California Polytechnic State University. Toward that end, project planners invite polytechnic students, supervised by computer science professors, to assess peers' information seeking needs. This student‐generated evidence informs creation of paper prototypes and implementation of usability tests. Sustained relationships between planners and beneficiaries permit iterative evaluation and continuous improvement of design concepts and product functionalities.FindingsPurposeful conversations aimed at learning from user‐generated evidence enrich the planning process for digital library projects. Reflective of the “learn by doing” educational values of the organization, this approach advances learning among both users and planners throughout user‐centered (re)design experiences.Practical implicationsCollaborative design assumes that enabling interfaces, systems, and environments are best designed and developed inclusively, with and for beneficiaries. Toward that end, practical guidelines are offered to enable replication of this approach, which depends on user produced and interpreted evidence, in other organizational settings.Originality/valueA paucity of literature exists on the relevance of EBL in the digital age. Similarly, too little applied research has adopted a human‐centered focus for design and development of information systems. Finally, too few digital library projects recognize the value of initiating positive user experiences at project inception.
Digital‐age trends and perspectives in Korean university archives
Authors: Kim Heejung , Lee Hyewon 
Published: June 2009

PurposeContrary to the development of digital libraries at Korean universities, which has been due to the progress of information technologies, university archives are in their early stages and are not fully using the digital environment. This paper aims to evaluate current trends and possible future directions of university archives in Korea via surveys (questionnaires) and interviews with university archives personnel.Design/methodology/approachSurveys (questionnaires) and interviews are made at 51 university archives in Korea. Questionnaires, based on university archives guidelines, include 27 questions in 6 categories: foundation principles, functions, process guidelines, facilities, acquisition and management, and access and services.FindingsBasic foundation principles or process guidelines are not yet completely established. Administrative, preservation, and management functions are strong, but research and educational functions, and access and service functions are very weak. Use of information technologies and digital environment are poor also. Cooperation between internal and external institutions is not active. Future directions should address these weak points. Especially, information technologies can efficiently offer support for the development of university archives from the acquisition stage to the user services and preservation stages.Originality/valueThis investigation of current trends at university archives in Korea through questionnaires and interviews with staff members and archivists points to future directions for such archives, especially in the application of digital methods. The approach taken and suggestions made might be helpful for other university archives.
Predicting information‐seeking intention in academic digital libraries
Authors: Chang Chiao‐Chen , Lin Chia‐Yen , Chen Yu‐Chin , Chin Yang‐Chieh 
Published: June 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine and predict users' information‐seeking intention regarding academic digital library services, using the theory of reasoned action (TRA) and the theory of planned behavior (TPB).Design/methodology/approachData are collected from 224 Taiwanese undergraduate and graduate students to assess the influence of attitude, subjective norm, and perceived behavioral control on the intention to seek information in an academic digital library. The results of structural equation model‐fitting analyses show that the TPB is better than the TRA in predicting the information‐seeking intention in an academic digital library.FindingsSpecially, the empirical results indicated that perceived behavioral control is a better predictor of behavioral intention than is attitude or subjective norm.Research limitations/implicationsThis paper assessed self‐reported information‐seeking intention as part of the survey and, as a result, could have introduced inaccuracies.Practical implicationsThe findings of the paper will help academic digital libraries to address the key factor which influences users' intention to seek information and to intensify their performance to meet user needs.Originality/valueAlthough the nature of the user experience in the digital environment appears to be quite different from the experience of looking through archival boxes or folders, research on the use of academic digital library services is scarce – particularly regarding user intention in the process of seeking information. The TRA and TPB are novel and usable in explaining the intention of online users to seek information, and these findings may be generally applicable to academic digital libraries and users.