bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Crossovers Get a Boost inBrassicaAllotriploid and Allotetraploid Hybrids
Authors: Leflon Martine , Grandont Laurie , Eber Frédérique , Huteau Virginie , Coriton Olivier , Chelysheva Liudmila , Jenczewski Eric , Chèvre Anne-Marie 
Published: July 2010

AbstractMeiotic crossovers are necessary to generate balanced gametes and to increase genetic diversity. Even if crossover number is usually constrained, recent results suggest that manipulating karyotype composition could be a new way to increase crossover frequency in plants. In this study, we explored this hypothesis by analyzing the extent of crossover variation in a set of related diploid AA, allotriploid AAC, and allotetraploid AACC Brassica hybrids. We first used cytogenetic methods to describe the meiotic behavior of the different hybrids. We then combined a cytogenetic estimation of class I crossovers in the entire genome by immunolocalization of a key protein, MutL Homolog1, which forms distinct foci on meiotic chromosomes, with genetic analyses to specifically compare crossover rates between one pair of chromosomes in the different hybrids. Our results showed that the number of crossovers in the allotriploid AAC hybrid was higher than in the diploid AA hybrid. Accordingly, the allotetraploid AACC hybrid showed an intermediate behavior. We demonstrated that this increase was related to hybrid karyotype composition (diploid versus allotriploid versus allotetraploid) and that interference was maintained in the AAC hybrids. These results could provide another efficient way to manipulate recombination in traditional breeding and genetic studies.
Transforming productivity and performance in healthcare and other public services: how training and development could make a more strategic contribution
Authors: Coulson‐Thomas Colin 
Published: July 2010

PurposePublic services such as healthcare face a variety of challenges. This paper aims to show how the use of a new generation of learning and support tools could make a significant contribution to tackling current problems and addressing future issues.Design/methodology/approachLearning and support tools can make it much easier for people to understand areas that are inherently complicated and do difficult jobs. The paper shows how an approach to improving the performance of professionals and knowledge workers can be employed in healthcare. Key lessons from early adopters are summarized, and questions posed for training and development professionals.FindingsTools examined in other contexts have increased the performance of key workgroups and yielded a first year return on investment of over 20, 30 and 70 times. Applying the approach that is suggested to healthcare could address challenges facing the system and benefit both practitioners and patients.Practical implicationsBenefits of the suggested approach include better engagement with patients, greater understanding, improved productivity, reduced costs, quicker responses, faster dissemination of beneficial changes, less stress, higher standards of patient safety and care, and evidenced compliance. Areas examined include education and training, induction, continuing professional development, ensuring patient safety, maintaining standards, monitoring practitioners, diagnosis, ensuring optimum care pathways, reducing stress and improving productivity.Originality/valueMany responsible boards would like to address the challenges facing public services such as healthcare, but they lack a practical and cost effective way of doing so. The approach outlined represents a cost effective way of integrating learning and working, and uses a framework for managing information, knowledge and best practice, and related learning tools to support the development, updating and practice of healthcare professionals, and ensure adherence to relevant procedures, regulations and standards.
Job or further training?
Authors: Kammermann Marlise 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe two‐year basic training course leading to the Basic Federal Certificate was established in Switzerland by the new Vocational Training Act in 2002 with the intention of ensuring upper secondary education and training for disadvantaged young people. The purpose of this paper is to discuss the findings of a longitudinal study of youths who participated in a two‐year vocational education and training (VET) programme. The main objective is the evaluation of intentions regarding the two‐year training course.Design/methodology/approachA sample of 319 trainees on a two‐year training course in the retail sales and hotel sectors were questioned at the end of their training about their educational and family background, their occupational and personal situation as well as their prospects. Their integration into the labour market was recorded 14 months later. These results are compared with the results of a sample of 183 graduates of an Elementary traineeship in the same occupational fields.FindingsThe results of the study confirm some assumptions made about the effects of the training with Basic Federal VET Certificate. However, the findings also point to crucial aspects that require further investigation.Originality/valueThe findings of the investigation provide insight into initial experiences with the new standardised VET programme. In addition, the presented research is the first longitudinal study focusing on the occupational perspectives of underachieving youths in Switzerland.
Development and error compensation of laser soldering system
Authors: Xiong Zhenhua , Zou Xinjue , Wang Yulin , Ding Han 
Published: July 2010

PurposeAccurate alignment is vital to acquire high‐quality joints with less negative effects on the rest parts of the chip or other components on a board. The purpose of this paper is to develop an integrated laser soldering system, which is accurate, compact, and flexible.Design/methodology/approachThe system combines anX‐Ystage, a computer vision module and a laser module. It would automatically sense the soldering pads with computer vision, fulfill the alignment of laser beam and soldering pads together with the motion system, and finish the soldering work with laser power.FindingsBased on the analysis of experimental data, it is found that lens distortion and assembly angular errors of theX‐Ystage play a distinct role on the alignment errors.Originality/valueThe paper proposes an algorithm based on straight line method to reduce image distortion, and a compensation algorithm on the angular errors of theX‐Ypositioning stage. Experimental results show that the overall precision is satisfied for fine pitch applications and the system performs well.
Building conservation philosophy for masonry repair: part 2 – “principles”
Authors: Forster Alan M. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe techniques available for the repair of historic masonry structures are extremely wide ranging. The advantages and disadvantages of each type of repair can be evaluated in terms of cost, time and quality as with modern projects. It is however, important to realise that when repairs to historic buildings are selected they must conform to building conservation philosophy, or an ethical and principle based evaluation. The purpose of this paper (part 2 of 2) is to establish what is meant by principles in this context and wherever possible apply practical examples to illustrate these concepts.Design/methodology/approachEvaluative literature review of the principles encapsulated within building conservation philosophy utilising them to stimulate discussion on practical repair interventions.FindingsIt has been shown that the principles of building conservation philosophy must be considered prior to making decisions relating to masonry repair. These repairs have varying degrees of defensibility, and will ultimately lead to good or bad conservation approaches. This paper briefly discusses the principles, highlighting some of the issues that may be initially confusing to the practitioner.Originality/valueThe evaluation of building conservation philosophy for masonry repair, and more specifically the “principles” have been little studied. The importance of this cannot however be over stated, as far from being an esoteric concept it affects every practical repair. This work brings together the study of the philosophical and practical, enabling practitioners to better understand the ramifications of building conservation philosophy for their projects. It must however be emphasised that as with any aspect of philosophy, there is not necessarily a right or wrong answer, only higher levels of defence for the selected repairs.
Surveillance investments in store environment and sense of security
Authors: Kajalo Sami , Lindblom Arto 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis study aims to focus on how grocery store retail entrepreneurs invest in formal and informal surveillance, and how these investments affect consumers' and employees' sense of security. In particular, it tries to understand what kind of surveillance investments can be found from the stores with high consumer and employees' sense of security.Design/methodology/approachThe present study utilizes elements of CPTED in its theoretical approach. The population for the study consisted of 946 grocery store K‐retailers. The data collection was carried out through an internet survey in February and March of 2009. A total of 161 grocery store retailers filled in the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 17 percent.FindingsThe research reveals that investments in informal surveillance are more likely to create a high sense of security among consumers and employees than are investments in formal surveillance. In other words, the analysis shows that the stores where consumers and employees have a high sense of security have made more investments in comfortable, clean and well‐lit premises than stores where consumers and employees have a low sense of security.Research limitations/implicationsThe present study was limited to surveillance and to consumers' and employees' sense of security as understood by the retailers. Unquestionably, there is a need to study surveillance from the consumers' and employees' viewpoints. In addition, qualitative studies would enable more thorough operationalization of the concepts that linked the surveillance and sense of security in the store context.Practical implicationsRetailers wishing to create a safe retail space for employees and customers should invest in informal surveillance. Investments in comfortable, well‐cleaned and well‐lighted premises make both consumers and employees feel safe in the store environment. In this way, retailers can enhance the competitiveness of their store.Originality/valueVery little empirical research has evaluated the effectiveness of surveillance in the store environment, although many articles and reports have commented on the importance of surveillance. The present study fills this research gap.
Partner selection for strategic alliances: case study insights from the maritime industry
Authors: Solesvik Marina Z. , Westhead Paul 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this exploratory study is to examine the partner selection criteria reported by maritime firms in Norway. The study aims to analyze how a maritime firm's competitive advantage can be enhanced by the selection of the right partner with reference to a strategic alliance.Design/methodology/approachA multiple‐case study methodology was used. Archival, survey and interview data were explored relating to the partner selection process reported by Norwegian maritime firms. Primary data were gathered from semi‐structured personal interviews with managers of Norwegian maritime firms.FindingsCase study evidence suggests that the strategic alliances were successful when partners had been carefully selected. As detected elsewhere, successful alliances were associated with partners that had managed to build trustful and honest relationships, had common strategic goals, and partners that supplied resources and competencies. Notably, it was detected that cyclicality in the maritime industry shaped the partner selection process. Trust between partners was used as mechanism to reduce uncertainty relating to the strategic alliance process. Firms seeking long‐term alliances selected partners with substantial capital and financial stability to survive a market's downturn, as well as the resources required for expansion during a recession.Practical implicationsPresented findings have implications for practitioners, especially for managers of shipping firms, banks, shipyards, producers of ship equipment, ship design firms, and ship brokers. Practitioners need to be aware that the rationale for inter‐firm collaboration change over time, and motives are linked to the phase of the maritime cycle. Inter‐firm collaboration provides competitive advantage benefits to firms and collaboration can protect as well as create jobs and can create wealth in maritime communities.Originality/valueA novel conceptual contribution is the exploration of links between maritime industrial cyclicality and the partner selection process relating to strategic alliances. The study also adds to debates relating to the profiles of internationalizing smaller firms.
Singapore stock broking service quality: fifteen percent gap
Authors: Yik‐Chee Lee , Meredith G.G. , Marchant T. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of the paper is to adapt the SERVQUAL instrument and provide a unique analysis of service quality, value, customer satisfaction and loyalty of Singapore stock investors.Design/methodology/approach– The paper uses results from a mail survey with 300 copies of a self‐administrated questionnaire utilising the SERVQUAL instrument with experienced stock investors using stockbroker (remisier) services in Singapore. Altogether, 169 useable returns (56 percent response rate) were analyzed.FindingsInvestors expect high quality service from brokers, particularly in terms of reliability. There was a 15 percent gap in service quality, and a 20 percent gap in service value. Customers who relied on brokers' advice perceived higher service quality. Brokers need more empathy with customers. SERVQUAL translated to Singapore stock broking customers with good reliability.Research limitations/implicationsResults may not generalize beyond Singapore or to other financial services.Practical implicationsBrokers need to focus on personal, empathetic relationships with investors and aim for near perfect reliability in accurate and timely execution of customers' orders. Customers' level of expertise is important and brokers need to make more effort to educate their clients, and proactively advise them.Originality/valueService quality, customer perceived value, customer satisfaction and loyalty of customers have been important research areas in the marketing literature. Research on these variables simultaneously in stock brokerage services is limited and the study sheds light on these variables in a new field. The study provides practical advice for brokers and other financial service providers, particularly in the light of emerging credence service and commercial friends concepts in the financial services sector.
Networks and corporate entrepreneurship
Authors: Toledano Nuria , Urbano David , Bernadich Marc 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to analyse in‐depth collaboration as a process that emerges from interactions among individuals in order to develop entrepreneurial actions within established family firms. The research is contextualized in the metal sector in Catalonia (Spain), using institutional economics as a theoretical framework of reference.Design/methodology/approachMethodologically, the paper adopt an exploratory perspective and employs a qualitative approach. In particular, a multiple case‐study is used to gain deep insights into a contemporary and complex issue within its real‐life context, and two case studies are purposefully selected in order to be able to conduct cross‐case comparisons.FindingsIn the early formation phase of collective entrepreneurship, there are similarities reflecting the networks status of both cases. In contrast, there are some variations concerning the development of collective entrepreneurship within the businesses which affect the type of corporate entrepreneurship (CE) activities developed by the firms.Research limitations/implicationsBy using a case study approach, it is hard to validate the theories for any more general applicability.Practical implicationsPromoting trust in the organizational context, owner‐managers may assume the role of intrapreneurs as network or human interaction builders within businesses, in order to promote CE through collective activities.Originality/valueThe paper shows that CE activities may be understood from a collective action among employees and owner‐managers. The paper also demonstrates that the phenomenon can be place into a broader theoretical context, taking into account the considerations included in institutional economics.
Changing the strategy formation process in a service cooperative
Authors: Canet‐Giner Maria Teresa , Fernández‐Guerrero Rafael , Peris‐Ortiz Marta 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to concern the strategic changes a firm needs to incorporate in order to deliver a complex service such as providing assistance to the socially disadvantaged. The paper seeks to analyze the development of such a process considering the ability of managers to exploit resources and foster new opportunities for the firm.Design/methodology/approachThe qualitative methodology applied is that of a case study. The organization analyzed was a service cooperative. A semi‐structured questionnaire was used to gather the information along with documents and additional information thereafter, thus facilitating the triangulation process.FindingsNon‐profit service organizations that provide assistance services for the disadvantaged population have to compete in a complex and turbulent environment. The strategic process adopted by those organizations requires more participation and involvement from organizational members; but, simultaneously, this process should be more rational and planned. The strategic content involves the adoption of a hybrid strategy. The function of managers that act as intrapreneurs exploiting existing resources and capabilities (through human resource practices, such as training or reward systems) and promoting change plays an essential role. Decentralization and socialization are necessary for the successful development of those strategic changes.Originality/valueThe paper draws implications for service organizations suggesting, as the main strategic changes for improving competitiveness, the establishment of incentive regulation systems relevant to job characteristics and the establishment of a larger number of cooperation agreements and cooperation networks.
A grounded theory model of service providers' stress, emotion, and coping during intercultural service encounters
Authors: Wang Chen‐ya , Mattila Anna S. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThis study seeks to shed light on service providers' experiences and challenges during intercultural service encounters.Design/methodology/approachA grounded theory approach was used to explore a broad range of management issues regarding intercultural service encounters. A conceptual model was developed through interviews with current service providers.FindingsThe findings indicate that intercultural service encounters can serve as potential stressors for service providers and consequently induce negative emotions. While some service providers employ various coping techniques to address this situation, others tend to avoid international customers.Originality/valueThe intercultural service encounter has received little research attention despite its prevalence in daily life. The value of this paper contributes to the understanding of intercultural service encounters, particularly the challenges and stress employees could face.
Brand, knowledge, and false sense of security
Authors: Hui Wendy 
Published: July 2010

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to study how brand name can affect consumers' perceived protection from security technologies. It also seeks to investigate the significance of knowledge in reducing consumers' reliance on brand name in their security technology adoption decision.Design/methodology/approachA 2×2 experiment was used to study the effects of brand name and knowledge on the adoption of antivirus software. Subjects were randomly assigned to groups and presented with different brands and product choice sets. Product choices from different groups were analyzed using z‐tests and logistic regression.FindingsIt is found that brand name affects product choice, a strong brand may tend to induce a false sense of security and lead to poor produce choice, and knowledge can reduce consumers' reliance on brand name in security technology adoption decision.Originality/valueThe paper highlights consumers' reliance on brand name to infer the level of protection provided by a security technology. It also shows that knowledge can reduce this reliance. The findings of this paper have significant implications to brand, consumer expectation, and product line management.
Justifying the need for a data security management plan for the UAE
Authors: Al‐Awadi K. , Saidani M. 
Published: July 2010

PurposeAs the United Arab Emirates (UAE) organizations are embarking onto the intensive technology world where the exchange of information is increasingly taking place through electronic means and data are stored electronically, this paper attempts to investigate the need to develop a UAE data security strategy and a detailed framework that can ensure the safety of data and can also cope with all types of disasters expected in the country. The paper also reviews and analyses the types of hazards in the UAE.Design/methodology/approachIn order to obtain a global view on how organizations in the UAE are managing the security of their electronic information, a questionnaire has been designed and distributed with the aim of obtaining a clear understanding of their data security procedures, practices, and policies.FindingsThe research has shown that organizations from the outset should have a set‐plan, which has to be periodically analyzed, reviewed, and modified to keep abreast of the technological advancements and risks in order to protect electronic data.Originality/valueAn extensive review of the literature has shown that no comprehensive research work has investigated data security management in the UAE. This makes the current study of particular importance in contributing to knowledge but also original in the context of the UAE where very little work has been undertaken on the subject.