bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Nutritional evaluation of complementary food developed from plant and animal protein sources
Authors: Ibironke Samson , Fashakin Joseph B. , Badmus A.O. 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to nutritionally evaluate the potency of complementary food produced by mixing different sources of vegetable and animal protein together.Design/methodology/approachMaize (carbohydrate), peanut (groundnut) and crayfish (Euastacus spp) were the sole energy and protein sources, respectively. Diet 1 (Basal); diet 2 (groundnut‐fermented‐maize (ogi) 1:9); diet 3 (crayfish‐ground‐nut‐ogi, 1:1:9); diet 4 (crayfish‐ogi, 1:9); diet 5 control (Nutrend). The formulated complementary diets were fed to 30 albino rats. A commercial product (Nutrend) manufactured by nestle plc was obtained at a local supermarket, Ile‐Ife, Nigeria and was used as standard diet.FindingsThe result showed the growth rate (non‐protein diet) decreased from 37.962‐36.910; and the growth rate (protein diet) increased from 37.270‐54.544, 37.770‐82.662, 37.900‐78.570, and 37.636‐80.521 for diets 1 2, 3, 4 and 5, respectively. Protein efficiency ratio (PER), for diets 1 2, 3, 4 and 5 were nil, 1.45, 3.30, 3.15, and 2.94, respectively. Net protein ratio (NPR), for diets 1 2, 3, 4 and 5 were nil, 0.85, 2.78, 2.59, and 2.45, respectively. The average nitrogen retained in various organs of experimental animals, such as liver, kidney and muscle of the diets 1 2, 3 4 and 5 were 35.52, 33.55, 33.58: 48.32, 48.40 48.68: 55.70, 53.20, 56.08: 52.30, 50.48, 54.65: and 56.76, 44.63, 56.80, respectively. The formulations compared to control were found superior in terms of growth rate, PER, NPR and ensure optimum nitrogen content in the liver, kidney and tissues.Originality/valueThe paper's findings show that the complementary food formulations which are not expensive, locally available, and affordable, could be produced from plant and animal sources and may be suitable to eradicate protein energy malnutrition (PEM).
The transition from a judgmental to an integrative method in demand forecasting
Authors: Nakano Mikihisa , Oji Nobunori 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to extract some implications for managing the transition process of demand forecasting.Design/methodology/approachUsing case study methodology, this paper describes a case of the transition from a judgmental to an integrative method in demand forecasting at Kao Corporation in Japan and extracts useful implications from the case.FindingsEven if the forecaster and user are not the same, it is found that firms can realize an integrative method of using judgment as input to model building through effective transition management of demand forecasting.Research limitations/implicationsThe results of this paper are from a case study. To examine the validity and effectiveness, future research needs to continue case studies and search for cross‐case patterns.Practical implicationsIn the transition process of demand forecasting, it is very useful for firms that the forecaster demonstrates the benefits of new forecasting methods through experiential initiatives, solves various problems with the user at the beginning of the transition process, and creates opportunities so that the user experientially acquires the technical knowledge of the forecaster.Originality/valueThrough describing a case of the transition process of demand forecasting in detail, this paper finds useful means for managing the transition process of demand forecasting.
The use of communication activities in the development of small to medium‐sized enterprise brands
Authors: Centeno Edgar , Hart Susan 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate how small to medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs) use particular brand communication activities to develop their brands.Design/methodology/approachAs a means to build some understanding about this phenomenon, a “contemporary marketing practices” perspective was used as a theoretical framework to 30 holistic case studies in Mexico. Semi‐structured interviews were carried out with brand owner/managers.FindingsFindings suggest four categories of brand communication activities based on interactional, transactional, and e‐marketing approaches, including “close and personal”, “mass‐personalisation”, “mass”, and “e‐communication” activities.Research limitations/implicationsMany more activities were found in interactional marketing as it appeared to be more suited to SMEs and context. Future research may address key activities for further investigation such as word‐of‐mouth as a key role in SME brand communication.Practical implicationsThis study confirms the key participatory role of the brand owner with regard to brand communication activities.Originality/valueThis is one of the first articles that attempts to explain how SME brands use marketing communication tools to interact with their stakeholders for brand development.
Neural network hysteresis modeling with an improved Preisach model for piezoelectric actuators
Authors: Guo Weiping , Liu Diantong , Wang Wei 
Published: March 2012

PurposeWidely used in micro‐position devices and vibration control, the piezoelectric actuator exhibits strong hysteresis effects, which can cause inaccuracy and oscillations, even lead to instability. If the hysteretic effects can be predicted, a controller can be designed to correct for these effects. This paper aims to present a neural network hysteresis model with an improved Preisach model to predict the output of piezoelectric actuator.Design/methodology/approachThe improved Preisach model is given: A wiping‐out memory sequence is defined that is along a single axis only and at the same time the ascending and the descending extreme points are separated. The extended area variable is calculated according to wiping‐out memory sequence. The relationship between the two inputs (the extended area variable and variable rate of input signal) and the hysteresis output is implemented with a neural network to approximate the hysteresis model for the piezoelectric actuators.FindingsSome experiments are carried out with a piezoelectric ceramic (PST150/7/40 VS12) and the results show the neural network hysteresis model can reliably predict the hysteretic behaviours in piezoelectric actuators.Originality/valueThe improved Preisach model is a simple model that is implemented by a neural network to reliably predict the hysteretic output in piezoelectric actuators.
Alignment or independence? Multinational subsidiaries and parent relations
Authors: Reilly Marty , Scott Pamela , Mangematin Vincent 
Published: March 2012

PurposeSubsidiary units must respond to emerging threats including disaggregation of value chains and increased headquarters monitoring and control which have led to a cycle of subsidiary decline. The authors recognize the value of subsidiary initiatives as a short‐term response but argue that subsidiary long‐term survival and growth will depend on the unit's ability to align with its parent strategic activities and knowledge base through developing vertical embeddedness.Design/methodology/approachThis research is part of an ongoing quantitative and qualitative study programme of Irish subsidiary operations of foreign MNCs. This paper integrates the authors' broader research to date including both in‐depth interviews within a focal case combined with a comprehensive review of the literature relating to MNC and subsidiary management in identifying how subsidiaries can respond to current challenges.FindingsIn contrast to the dominant view in the literature, this research found that subsidiaries can respond to emerging threats by integrating their activities and deepening their alignment with their parent operation. The authors identify three pillars in developing a strategy of alignment – strategic embeddedness or ensuring development of subsidiary strategy in line with headquarters stated objectives, relational embeddedness determined by trust relationships and a history of consistent subsidiary delivery and finally knowledge embeddedness facilitated through coalescent knowledge creation and collaborative effort in line with headquarters strategy and direction.Research limitations/implicationsResults from the survey are subject to the standard limitations and a larger pool of interviewees may have reinforced the qualitative findings.Practical implicationsSubsidiary managers need to be aware of how closer integration of unit activities with headquarters and the management of knowledge outflows can reduce the risk of relocation and better position subsidiaries for survival and growth. To date the emphasis on subsidiary initiative has overshadowed the benefits of aligning with headquarters strategy, a more feasible alternative for many subsidiaries which do not enjoy strategic independence.Originality/valueBy demonstrating the benefits of alignment with headquarters, this paper identifies a valuable alternative perspective to the predominant view in the literature that subsidiary survival is dependent on subsidiary initiative. Interesting insights into how alignment can be achieved are also provided. Capturing both the subsidiary and parent perspectives provides valuable insights.
Meta‐SWOT: introducing a new strategic planning tool
Authors: Agarwal Ravi , Grassl Wolfgang , Pahl Joy 
Published: March 2012

PurposeSWOT analysis is defective as a tool for guiding strategic planning because of its subjective, unsystematic, and non‐quantitative nature that lacks predictive power. This paper aims to present an alternative tool that overcomes these defects and is grounded in the resource‐based view of the firm. Meta‐SWOT does not take markets and other factors in the competitive environment as given but invites planners to start from resources and capabilities in determining competitive advantage.Design/methodology/approachBased on a critique of SWOT analysis, an alternative decision‐support method is presented. Meta‐SWOT is based on the inside‐out approach typical of the resource‐based view of the firm. The method is implemented in a workbook programmed in Microsoft Excel that guides decision‐makers in a systematic step‐by‐step process of questions and answers from an initial brainstorming to a prioritized list of action steps. Input decisions generate a competitive map and a strategy map that assist effective planning. The idea of strategic fit is central to the process.FindingsSystematic analysis of a business and sequential decision‐making can overcome many of the weaknesses of SWOT. The paper demonstrates the implementation of a theory of business in spreadsheets and the derivation of more objective, systematic, and quantitative recommendations.Originality/valueMeta‐SWOT is an original but relatively simple software that can be used for a wide range of strategic planning exercises. The Excel workbook is made available for free to interested readers.
Norms, cognitive dissonance, and cooperative behaviour in laboratory experiments
Authors: Wichardt Philipp C. 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThe paper emphasises the general relevance of social norms and social associations for cooperative behaviour in less or non‐social economic contexts, focusing in particular on economic laboratory experiments, and to illustrate the underlying psychological driving forces.Design/methodology/approachThe argument focuses on the interplay between social norms, their psychological enforcement mechanism (cognitive dissonance) and context effects. Drawing on findings from both (social) psychology and experimental economics, it emphasises the relevance of social norms for cooperative behaviour also in less or non‐social environments as often created in economic laboratory experiments. Moreover, the conditions for cognitive dissonance effects to occur are summarised and the corresponding behavioural effects are both highlighted and exemplified by means of various examples including the analysis of a specific data set.FindingsThe discussion strongly suggests that the influence of common cooperative social norms is difficult to “anonymise away” in laboratory experiments or other less socially focused decision environments. Moreover, it provides a possible explanation for the occurrence of a variety of behavioural patterns often found in such settings, such as initially high but decreasing willingness to cooperate in social dilemmas.Practical implicationsEmphasising the far reach of social aspects in economic decision making, the discussion may help in the design of institutions as it illustrates a widespread source of non‐economic individual incentives.Originality/valueThe argument addresses the idiosyncrasies of individual cooperative behaviour in situations where economic incentives should hinder such behaviour. Adding to earlier arguments which explain such cooperation, for example, by reference to fairness concerns or inequity aversion, the present discussion emphasises in particular the specific psychological driving forces behind such behaviour. In doing so, it establishes a clear link to the research on cognitive dissonance in psychology.
Availability and organisation of creationist literature in UK public libraries
Authors: MacDonald Archie , McMenemy David 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThis study seeks to investigate the availability of creationist and intelligent design (ID) books in UK public libraries, whether any materials held are obtained as a result of donation or purchase, and whether such materials, if available, are classified as religion or science.Design/methodology/approachA Freedom of Information Request (FOI) was sent to a subset of all the public library authorities in the UK. The FOI requests took the form of three queries/questions asked of the library service of each local authority. From a list of 218 library authorities, 68 were contacted either by email or by online contact form.FindingsThere was a relatively low level of reported donations of creationist and ID materials in UK public libraries. However, a high number of library authorities did have creationist and intelligent design materials on their catalogues via their own procurement mechanisms. There was no consistent nationwide pattern with regards to how these materials were classified and there was a wide geographic variation reported, with difficulties evidenced in whether to present creationist and intelligent design texts to the public as religious texts or science texts.Research limitations/implicationsThe paper presents results from a subset of local authorities in the UK, thus cannot claim to be anything more than indicative of the sample.Practical implicationsThe paper suggests that library authorities may need to be more consistent in how they present controversial materials to users.Originality/valueThe paper is the first to examine the issue of creationist materials in UK public libraries and how they are processed.
Behavioural indicators of perceived managerial and leadership effectiveness within Romanian and British public sector hospitals
Authors: Hamlin Robert G. , Patel Taran 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to report the results of a replication study of perceived managerial and leadership effectiveness within a Romanian public sector hospital, and to discuss the extent to which they are similar to and different from findings from equivalent studies carried out in two British NHS Trust hospitals.Design/methodology/approachConcrete examples (critical incidents) of effective and ineffective managerial behaviour were collected using Flanagan's critical incident technique (CIT). The critical incidents were content analyzed to identify a smaller number of behavioural statements (BSs). These were then compared and contrasted against two British BS data sets using realist qualitative analytic methods, and deductively coded and sorted into extant behavioural categories.FindingsA total of 57 BSs were identified of which 30 were examples of effective and 27 of least effective/ineffective managerial behaviour. The multi‐case/cross‐nation comparative analysis revealed high degrees of commonality and relative generalization between the Romanian and British findings.Research limitations/implicationsData saturation may not have been achieved during the CIT collection phase of the study. The relevance and transferability of the findings to other public sector hospitals in Romania have yet to be demonstrated empirically. The results have potential as “best evidence” to inform and shape “evidence‐based HRD” initiatives designed to train and develop effective managers and leaders within the health services sector of Romania and the United Kingdom.Originality/valueThe study is a rare example of indigenous managerial behaviour research in a non‐Anglo country. The results lend strong empirical support for universalistic explanations of the nature of perceived managerial and leadership effectiveness.
Comparing work‐life balance in Spanish and Latin‐American countries
Authors: Idrovo Carlier Sandra , Leon Llorente Consuelo , Grau Grau Marc 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThis paper aims to determine the level of awareness and implementation of family‐responsible parameters: policies, enablers, practices, and culture, in Spanish and Latin‐American companies, and how they impact work‐life balance.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses data from different national IESE's Family‐Responsible Employer Index surveys in Spain (1,000 companies) and five Latin‐American countries (1,155 companies), Brazil, Chile, Colombia, El Salvador and Peru, done between 2006 and 2008. This is a structured questionnaire that assesses the stage of development the organization is in regarding four main family‐responsible parameters: policies, enablers, practices, and culture.FindingsLatin‐American countries get a slightly higher number of companies that are fully supportive of work‐family balance environment than Spain, but with lesser formal policies implemented and a stronger presence of enablers and practices. Policies are important but might not be as effective if not accompanied by the example of managers and staff as well as by a deep understanding of the cultural value placed by them on work, family and personal life.Research limitations/implicationsThe survey‐based data used limits insight into causal relationships. Qualitative and longitudinal studies are needed in order to clarify motives for individual and organizational decisions regarding work‐life initiatives. Data collected are from one source only: employer's management. Multi‐source studies must follow and include the public sector.Originality/valueThis is the first comparison between Spanish companies and companies from five Latin‐American countries regarding work‐family policies, enablers, practices and culture with such an ample number of companies. Findings will aid HRD practitioners in developing work‐family initiatives and help researchers to address new questions in cross‐cultural comparisons.
Creating organizational cultures
Authors: Mouton Nico , Nørholm Just Sine , Gabrielsen Jonas 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to re‐conceptualize the relations between rhetorical strategies and material practices in the processes whereby leaders create or change organizational cultures.Design/methodology/approachThe authors compare and contrast two broad perspectives on cultural change in organizations. The first perspective is informed by modern social science, and focuses primarily on material practices. The second perspective is rooted in classical rhetoric, and concentrates on discursive strategies.FindingsIt is found that both perspectives hold pertinent but partial insights. The authors propose an integrated perspective in which material practices and rhetorical strategies are seen as two analytical sides of the same ontological coin. This enables a fuller and more detailed explanation of how organizational cultures are created or changed. A brief illustration is provided of the merits of this approach by revisiting the case of Enron.Originality/valueThe paper constitutes an initial exploration of how social scientific and rhetorical perspectives on organizational change may be brought closer together. It may provide the first step towards the development of a new, integrated theory.
Ground effect phenomena about lift and downforce generating cambered aerofoils
Authors: Vogt Jonathan W. , Barber Tracie J. 
Published: March 2012

PurposeInvestigations into ground effect phenomena about aerofoils are typically conducted on either an upright (lift‐producing) or inverted (downforce‐producing) configuration, in isolation. This limited approach does not promote a holistic understanding of how ground effect influences aerofoils. This paper aims to address this issue.Design/methodology/approachA two‐dimensional computational fluid dynamics investigation was conducted on the highly cambered Tyrrell aerofoil, in both its upright and inverted configurations, in order to better understand ground effect phenomena by observing how it influences each configuration differently. The trends in force and flow field behaviour were observed at various ground clearances through observation of the normal and drag forces and pressure coefficient plots. The aerofoil was held stationary and at a constant angle of attack of 6 degrees, with a moving ground plane to simulate the correct relative motion.FindingsThe different ground effect mechanisms that occur on each configuration are highlighted and explained. It is shown how ground effect manifests through these different phenomena and that there are general or overarching mechanisms that influence both configurations. These general mechanisms allow unintuitive phenomena, such as the downward movement of the stagnation point on both configurations, to be explained.Originality/valueOverarching mechanisms of ground effect are discovered which are of value in any situation in which ground effect aerodynamics is to be exploited.
Approximate analysis of population dynamics with density‐dependent migrations and the Allee effects
Authors: Mohyud‐Din Syed , Yıldırım Ahmet , Gulkanat Yagmur 
Published: March 2012

PurposeThe aim of this paper is to present the numerical simulation of the population dynamics model with density‐dependent migrations and the Allee effects using the homotopy perturbation method (HPM).Design/methodology/approachThe paper applied HPM and the results obtained by this method are compared to the exact solution. The results show applicability, accuracy and efficiency of HPM in solving the transient non‐linear advection‐diffusion‐reaction equation.FindingsIn this study, HPM is applied to solve the model of population dynamics with density‐ dependent migrations and the Allee effects. Numerical approximations show a high degree of accuracy. The numerical results we obtained justify the advantage of this methodology, even in the few terms approximation is accurate. Errors can be made smaller by taking new terms of the iteration formulas.Originality/valueIt is confirmed that the work has not been published in any other journal.