bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Getting the measure of HR
Authors: Mahoney‐Phillips John , Adams Anna 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this case study is to describe how a global financial organization's corporate HR function, in partnership with divisional HR functions, increased the impact of HR initiatives through the development of an integrated and benchmarked metrics framework.Design/methodology/approachThe methodology used to create the framework was a mixture of analytical deskwork, consultative enquiry and benchmarking.FindingsTo date many HR initiatives have failed to be taken seriously in the boardroom, and this is, in significant part, due to the lack of quantifiable impact measures. The initiative described here is a framework of metrics that can be used to monitor, track and evaluate the strategic impact of HR strategy.Originality/valueThe paper adds value to the practitioner community by offering up a process for the development of a metrics framework against which HR strategy can be evaluated and developed over time.
An evidence‐based approach to developing HR strategy: transformation in Royal Mail
Authors: Bourne Alan , Haddon Dale 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThis case study aims to describe the benefits of an evidence‐based, metrics‐driven approach to formulating HR strategy.Design/methodology/approachThe approach taken to developing the HR strategy at Royal Mail Letters involved five phases: identifying the priorities for the HR strategy based on key business objectives; conducting an analysis of the current state in the organization; developing the HR strategy supported by robust analysis; reviewing the proposed approach against data and with key stakeholders; and finalizing the HR strategy.FindingsFour factors were key to successfully delivering a successful HR strategy: identification of the right metrics; engagement with and facilitation across stakeholders; adopting a robust, evidence‐based approach; and adopting a business rather than HR focus.Practical implicationsFirstly, HR functions need the requisite analyst skills, combining “hard” data analysis relating to financial and operational performance measures alongside “soft” analysis of data such as employee opinion and assessment results. Secondly, understanding of the wider business strategy is critical. To act as a strategic partner, proactive engagement across stakeholders is vital. The credibility of HR in the business then flows from a reputation for robust analysis.Originality/valueThe paper outlines in practical terms how an HR strategy can be developed that is fundamentally based in the business strategy and uses objective analysis to help achieve a consensus among key stakeholder groups as the basis for action.
Presbyter takes Knight
Authors: Powers Michael R. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this editorial is to explore the usefulness of distinguishing between “risk” and “Knightian uncertainty.”Design/methodology/approachThe paper presents a representative, insurance‐based model of Knightian uncertainty arising out of potential major structural changes (without historical precedent) in liability claim settlements. It then considers whether or not formal statistical forecasting and decision making are possible in this context.FindingsFor real‐world settings, it is found that a Bayesian statistical framework is sufficiently comprehensive to permit forecasting and decision making in the presence of Knightian uncertainty. The paper then shows that the Bayesian approach fails only if the sample space underlying the potential structural change is truly nonmeasurable.Originality/valueIt is argued that, under a Bayesian worldview, the distinction between risk and uncertainty is necessary only in highly abstract epistemological modeling.
Safety‐first portfolio optimization after September 11, 2001
Authors: Haque Mahfuzul , Varela Oscar 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to apply safety‐first portfolio principles in an environment where financial risk exists because of the probability of terrorist attacks, where the catastrophic events of September 11, 2001 (911) are the focal point of the analysis.Design/methodology/approachSafety‐first portfolios of US equities bilaterally combined with 12 developed and emerging region global equity indices are obtained for 911. Extreme value theory and safety‐first principles are used to optimize these portfolios for US risk‐averse investors. The actual performances of all portfolios in the post‐911 period are compared to the optimal results. The robustness of the results is examined by replicating the analysis for the period following July 7, 2006, when no actual terrorist attacks occurred on US soil.FindingsOptimal ex ante (ex post) safety‐first portfolios on 911 have high (low) US weights, and on July 7, 2006 low US weights. The differences are attributed to changes in market projections and/or conditions. In all cases, wealth is preserved even without the ex post optimal portfolios.Practical implicationsSafety‐first portfolio optimization can protect wealth given financial risks of extreme events like terrorist attacks.Originality/valueThe paper shows that quantitative assessments of financial risk are feasible, even though uncertainty with experts' risk assessments of extreme events such as 911 exists because of limited historical data and low probability of occurrence. The results are useful to investors developing international diversification strategies to protect wealth given the risks of terrorist attacks.
Portfolio evaluation using OWA‐heuristic algorithm and data envelopment analysis
Authors: Singh Abhay Kumar , Sahu Rajendra , Bharadwaj Shalini 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to evaluate two different asset selection methodologies and further examine these by forming optimal portfolios.Design/methodology/approachThis paper deals with the problem of portfolio formation, broadly in two steps: asset selection and asset allocation by using the two different approaches for the first step and then well‐known mean variance portfolio optimization. In addition, the resulting portfolios are compared using Sharpe ratio.FindingsThe empirical observations prove the applicability of the methodology adopted in the research design, ordered weighted averaging (OWA)‐heuristic algorithm gives us a better portfolio from the sample observations. Also the asset selection procedures adopted in the research proves to be of help when an investor has to narrow down the number of assets to invest in.Practical implicationsThe analysis provides two different methodologies for portfolio formation – though the asset allocation is based on the mean variance portfolio optimization, the asset selection methods adopted provide a systematic approach to select the efficient securities.Originality/valueThis paper shows that OWA can be used to decide the order of inputs for the heuristic algorithm. Also an attempt is made to use data envelopment analysis to find a solution to the problem of portfolio formation.
Determinants of the timing of bank failure in North Cyprus
Authors: Gunsel Nil 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the determinants of the timing of bank failure in North Cyprus over the period of 1984‐2002 using a discrete‐time logistic survival analysis.Design/methodology/approachThe empirical methodology employed in the paper allows for the determination of the factors that influence the time to bank failure. The model links the time of bank failure to a set of bank‐specific factors and macro‐environment that may have exacerbated the internal troubles of the financial institutions.FindingsAn empirical examination of the results on survival analysis reveal that the three variables, namely: low asset quality (total loan as a percentage of total assets), low liquidity (total liquid asset as a percentage of total assets), and high credit extended to the private sector (ratio of the private credit to gross domestic product) are the main factors that explain the survival time of banks in North Cyprus.Research limitations/implicationsFor further research this paper may better distinguish time to bank failure if it extends the time period and if it uses exchange pressure from Turkey that may have a direct effect on bank failure in North Cyprus.Practical implicationsNowadays bank failure is an important problem in the world. Using time technique to investigate bank failure will help to learn the factors that determine time to bank failure, which will further help to take precautions and prevent the cost of bank failure.Originality/valueThe analysis would appear to be the first to provide evidence and investigate the time to bank failure in the North Cyprus banking sector.
Prioritised best practices in a ratified consulting services maturity model for ERP consulting
Authors: Simon Alan , Schoeman Peter , Sohal Amrik S. 
Published: December 2009

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to explore the factors that lead to consulting success in the enterprise software environment and thereby develop a refined consulting services maturity (CSM) model which includes prioritised best practices grouped under eight key focus areas (KFAs).Design/methodology/approachThe research is conducted among Tier‐1 enterprise resource planning (ERP) vendors using interviews, focus group sessions, and a web survey. Based on the findings of the survey, the CSM model is improved, refined, and ultimately ratified by a number of experienced ERP sector practitioners.FindingsThe fundamental basis of the CSM model is that an enterprise software company will be able to improve the maturity level of its consulting services operations by focusing on certain key areas and adopting prioritised best practices in each of the key areas. These key areas include leadership, values, consulting skills, consulting success factors, adaptability, project management practices, profitability, and customer focus. The level of maturity of the organisation increases as best practices are implemented and continuously refined.Practical implicationsThe outcome is a blueprint for best practice consulting services for companies operating in the ERP software environment that can be adopted for very little cost. When implemented, the CSM model readily helps a company improve the performance of its consulting services business.Originality/valueBusiness performance is enhanced by selecting KFAs, including their associated best practices, and then targeting these for improvement. As further best practices are implemented and refined, the maturity level of the consulting practice increases. This model can easily be adopted by any consulting services company and with the necessary focus, it should lead to a dramatic improvement of most dimensions of a consulting practice.
Strict follow‐up programme including CT and 18F‐FDG‐PET after curative surgery for colorectal cancer
Authors: Sørensen N. F. , Jensen A. B. , Wille‐Jørgensen P. , Friberg L. , Rørdam L. , Ingeman L. , Hennild V. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractAim  The risk of local recurrence following curative surgery for colorectal cancer (CRC) is up to 50%. A rigorous follow‐up program may increase survival. Guidelines on suitable methods for scheduled follow up examinations are needed. This study evaluates a strict follow‐up program including carcinogenic embryonic antigen (CEA), chest X‐ray, abdominal ultrasound (US), computed tomography (CT) and 18F‐FDG positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET).Method  A cohort of 132 patients, treated by surgery with curative intent for CRC, was included. Patients were followed prospectively with scheduled controls at 3, 6, 12 and 24 months after curative surgery. CEA, chest X‐ray, US, CT and FDG‐PET supplemented by clinical examination. The end‐point was recurrence. Sensitivity and specificity was estimated 2 years after surgery.Results  Of the 132 patients included in the study, 25 experienced recurrence, detected at scheduled controls (n = 18) and at intervals between them (n = 7). The results of CT and FDG‐PET were correlated with recurrence. CT combined with FDG‐PET had the highest specificity and sensitivity.Conclusion  A total of 72% of recurrences were detected at scheduled controls. The findings supported a strict follow‐up program following curative surgery for colorectal cancer. FDG‐PET combined with CT should be included in control programs.
Management and outcome of anastomotic leakage after colonic surgery
Authors: Rickert A. , Willeke F. , Kienle P. , Post S. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractAim  Anastomotic leakage remains a key factor for morbidity after colonic surgery. The aim of the study was to analyse the outcome of different therapeutical approaches.Method  Of 1731 consecutive patients undergoing colonic resection between 1998 and 2005 at our institution, 67 patients with anastomotic leakage were identified from a prospective database. A logistic regression model was used to determine factors which influenced the therapeutic approach and outcome.Results  The overall anastomotic leakage rate was 3.5%. All patients were re‐operated. The anastomosis was resected without restoration of continuity in 31 but preserved in 36 patients. An ileostomy was constructed in 27 of 36 patients with anastomotic leakage after repair or revision of the anastomosis, the remaining nine cases were treated without ileostomy. Five of these latter nine vs three of the 27 patients with ileostomy experienced re‐leakage (P = 0.05). The overall mortality was 25%. The Mannheim Peritonitis Index was 17.44 for survivors vs 25.64 for nonsurvivors (P < 0.001). Restoration of intestinal continuity was performed in 95% of the patients with ileostomy and in 88% after Hartmann’s procedure. Multivariate analysis identified multi organ failure as the only factor predictive of a fatal outcome (P < 0.001). An ASA‐score of more than 2 (P = 0.02) and peritonitis (P = 0.002) were reasons for not preserving the anastomosis.Conclusion  Repair or redo of the anastomosis without a protective ileostomy frequently results in failure of the procedure. After Hartmann’s operation or split stoma creation a majority of patients undergo restoration of intestinal continuity.
Chemoradiotherapy in the management of primary squamous‐cell carcinoma of the rectum
Authors: Wang M. L. C. , Heriot A. , Leong T. , Ngan S. Y. K. 
Published: December 2009

AbstractAim  To assess the efficacy of chemoradiotherapy in the management of primary squamous‐cell carcinoma of the rectum.Method  Nine patients with primary squamous‐cell carcinoma of the rectum were treated with chemoradiotherapy from 1985 to 2007. All patients were female, with a mean age of 54 years (range 41–72 years). The mean distance of the tumour from the anal verge was 6 cm (range 4–10 cm). Seven patients were treated with curative intent (two postoperative, three preoperative, two chemoradiotherapy alone). Clinical stages for the curative group were T1N0M0 (1), T3N0M0 (3), T3N1M0 (1) and T4N0M0 (2). Chemoradiotherapy consisted of pelvic radiation 45–54 Gy in 1.8 Gy/fraction and concurrent 5‐fluorouracil and mitomycin C. The mean follow‐up duration for the curative group was 39 months (range 15–120 months).Results  All seven patients treated with curative intent achieved local control. A complete pathological response was seen in all patients after preoperative chemoradiotherapy. Two patients did not have surgery and remained free of disease. One patient with gross residual disease after surgery achieved local control. 18‐Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) avidity was detected in all patients who had FDG‐PET scans. Both primary and metastatic tumours demonstrated FDG‐avidity.Conclusion  Primary squamous‐cell carcinoma of the rectum appears to be very sensitive to chemoradiotherapy. The high complete response rate suggests that chemoradiotherapy alone with salvage surgery for local failure should be further explored. FDG‐PET scan may have a role to play in the management of this disease.
Safe and feasible outpatient treatment following induction and consolidation chemotherapy for patients with acute leukaemia
Authors: Møller Tom , Nielsen Ove Juul , Welinder Pernille , Dünweber Anne , Hjerming Maiken , Moser Claus , Kjeldsen Lars 
Published: December 2009

AbstractTraditionally, patients with acute leukaemia are admitted to hospital during chemotherapy‐induced pancytopenia, although a few recent reports have reported the feasibility and safety of outpatient treatment. We have developed an outpatient treatment programme for patients with acute leukaemia incorporating comprehensive patient education for self‐care management at home during pancytopenia and involvement of patients in care of their tunnelled central venous catheter (CVC). During neutropenia, patients are treated with prophylactic ciprofloxacine, amoxicillin/clavulanic acid and fluconazole. Herein, we report the results of outpatient treatment of 60 patients with acute leukaemia (54 with acute myeloid leukaemia) followed prospectively in the period from March 2004 to 2007. After induction chemotherapy, outpatient treatment was possible after 48 of 73 induction courses, with no readmission in 19 of these (40%). A total of 129 consolidation courses were administered with outpatient treatment following 116 of these, with no readmission in 69 (59%). The median number of days spent at home with neutrophils below 0.5 × 109/L was 8 d per course following induction and 12 d following consolidation chemotherapy. The predominant cause of readmission was neutropenic fever, in most instances of unknown origin. Coagulase‐negative staphylococci and Enterococcus faecium were the most frequently identified bacteria in blood cultures, whereas only four positive blood cultures with multiresistant Escherichia coli were identified in the entire patient cohort, the latter exclusively observed in patients receiving antibiotic prophylaxis. The majority of the patients were able to take care of their CVC including change in dressing and heparin flushing. There were 12 CVC‐related infections. There were no treatment‐related deaths. We conclude that outpatient treatment of patients with acute leukaemia is feasible and safe.
MYH9 related disease: four novel mutations of the tail domain of myosin‐9 correlating with a mild clinical phenotype
Authors: Pecci Alessandro , Panza Emanuele , De Rocco Daniela , Pujol‐Moix Nuria , Girotto Giorgia , Podda Luigi , Paparo Carmelo , Bozzi Valeria , Pastore Annalisa , Balduini Carlo L. , Seri Marco , Savoia Anna 
Published: December 2009

Abstract MYH9‐related disease (MYH9‐RD) is a rare autosomal dominant disorder caused by mutations in MYH9, the gene encoding the heavy chain of non‐muscle myosin IIA. All patients present congenital macrothrombocytopenia and inclusion bodies in neutrophils. Some of them can also develop sensorineural deafness, presenile cataract, and/or progressive nephropathy leading to end‐stage renal failure. We report four families, each with a novel mutation: two missense mutations, in exons 31 and 32, and two out of frame deletions in exon 40. They were associated with no bleeding diathesis, normal, or only slightly reduced platelet count and no extra‐hematological manifestations, confirming that alterations of the tail domain cause a mild form of MYH9‐RD with no clinically relevant defects.
Application of a Short, Disordered N-Terminal Flagellin Segment, a Fully Functional Flagellar Type III Export Signal, to Expression of Secreted Proteins
Authors: Dobó József , Varga János , Sajó Ráchel , Végh Barbara M. , Gál Péter , Závodszky Péter , Vonderviszt Ferenc 
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACTRecently, we have demonstrated that the 26-47 segment ofSalmonella entericaserovar Typhimurium flagellin is capable of mediating flagellar export. In order to reveal whether other parts of the N-terminal region have any significant influence on secretion, a series of plasmids were constructed containing thelacpromoter followed by the 26-47, 2-65, or 2-192 portion ofSalmonellaflagellin, to which various heterologous proteins of different size were fused (18 constructs overall). Essentially, all three segments could drive protein export; however, the nature of the attached polypeptide also had a significant effect on secretion efficiency. When low export efficiency was observed, it was mainly caused by inclusion body formation. Our data provide strong support for the idea that a short segment within the disordered N-terminal region of axial proteins is recognized by the flagellar type III export machinery. The 26-47 segment of flagellin contains all of the necessary information to direct translocation of attached polypeptide chains. This short (positions 26 to 47) flagellin segment attached to recombinant proteins can be used for secreted protein expression. Certain fusion proteins that are easily degraded within the cells were found to be intact in the medium, implying a potential application of this expression system for proteins with high proteolytic susceptibility.
Highly Diverse Cyanobactins in Strains of the Genus
Anabaena
Authors: Leikoski Niina , Fewer David P. , Jokela Jouni , Wahlsten Matti , Rouhiainen Leo , Sivonen Kaarina 
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT

Cyanobactins are small, cyclic peptides recently found in cyanobacteria. They are formed through proteolytic cleavage and posttranslational modification of short precursor proteins and exhibit antitumor, cytotoxic, or multi-drug-reversing activities. Using genome project data, bioinformatics, stable isotope labeling, and mass spectrometry, we discovered novel cyclic peptides, anacyclamides, in 27
Anabaena
strains. The lengths of the anacylamides varied greatly, from 7 to 20 amino acids. Pronounced sequence variation was also detected, and only one amino acid, proline, was present in all anacyclamides. The anacyclamides identified included unmodified proteinogenic or prenylated amino acids. We identified an 11-kb gene cluster in the genome of
Anabaena
sp. 90, and heterologous expression in
Escherichia coli
confirmed that this cluster was responsible for anacyclamide production. The discovery of anacyclamides greatly increases the structural diversity of cyanobactins.
Physiological Versatility of the Extremely Thermoacidophilic Archaeon
Metallosphaera sedula
Supported by Transcriptomic Analysis of Heterotrophic, Autotrophic, and Mixotrophic Growth
Authors: Auernik Kathryne S. , Kelly Robert M. 
Published: December 2009

ABSTRACT

Comparative transcriptomic analysis of autotrophic, heterotrophic, and mixotrophic growth of the archaeon
Metallosphaera sedula
(70°C, pH 2.0) revealed candidates for yet-to-be-confirmed components of the 3-hydroxypropionate/4-hydroxybutyrate pathway and implicated a membrane-bound hydrogenase (Msed_0944-Msed_0946) for growth on H
2
. Routes for generation of ATP and reducing equivalents were also identified.