bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The globalization of law firms: managerial issues
Authors: Segal‐Horn Susan , Dean Alison 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo identify and discuss the changes arising within very large law firms from the pressure to provide global services and the issues for firms in implementing cross‐border integration.Design/methodology/approachThe research is qualitative, case‐based and exploratory, using a piloted topic guide. The study is of very large UK “City” law firms (i.e. those operating in over 20 countries) using in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with: managing partners, senior partners, partners and associates at “City” law firms, clients, US lawyers in London and non‐legal professionals. Data are triangulated with information from trade press, trade associations and firm reports.FindingsIdentification of managerial issues of global integration common to law firms interviewed. These include: a shift to a “managed” firm and decline in professional autonomy; post‐acquisition integration and merger process issues; operationalization of global practices (such as common technology platforms, common systems practices, common human resources management practices and cross‐border intra‐firm working relationships) to achieve consistency throughout the integrated firm.Research limitations/implicationsData set is derived from UK firms only and dependent on respondent views. Findings indicate that law firms have become less distinctive and more like other service businesses.Practical implicationsThe paper identifies the processes by which consistent cross‐border service to the client may be achieved within globally integrated firms.Originality/valueLaw is an under‐researched industry. This research adds to knowledge of the legal services industry; explores globalization in a professional service firm context; extends the global strategy literature into the services domain. This is also one of the few papers on law firms based on primary data.
In‐company education: an example of best practice?
Authors: Best Warwick , Lashley Conrad , Rowson Bill 
Published: April 2007

PurposeNottingham Business School recently validated a suite of generic qualifications based round the theme of leisure retailing. The purpose of this paper is to describe the Advanced Diploma, where one of the first cohorts on the programme was pub managers and area managers from J.D. Wetherspoon.Design/methodology/approachThis paper presents the findings of a telephone survey of 17 pub managers and three area managers who had successfully completed the Advanced Diploma in 2005.FindingsAround eight out of ten pub managers interviewed reported positive impressions of the course and went on to state that their property had increased sales, profits, customer and staff satisfaction. Results from company sales and performance data support the impressions created by these qualitative interviews. Sales, gross profit and unit profit performance all show overall improvements in performance compared to company averages.Practical implicationsApart from students obtaining a university qualification it would appear that in every case individual pubs reported a substantial improvement in their business. The other implication is that the way in which these students are able to obtain a degree might well become the accepted alternative to full time education and all the financial implications that go with it.Originality/valueThe paper provides a model for evaluating the impacts of education and training interventions that could be employed by both university teams and professional in‐company trainers.
Xerox takes a strategic approach to e‐learning
Authors: Ettinger Andrew 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo highlight the planning, design and delivery of e‐learning at Xerox Europe.Design/methodology/approachThe article presents the views of Ian Sellers, manager of Xerox Education support services.FindingsXerox has an ambitious target of providing 50 percent of training via technology to Xerox Europe's workforce of 15,000 in Europe, but the company recognizes that, while e‐learning is important, it will not – and should not – replace traditional training options. Emphasizes the key role of a small, select number of suppliers, who are strategic partners. Also stresses the importance of promoting and marketing e‐learning within the organization. Presents linguistic and technological barriers to the adoption of e‐learning, and how they may be overcome.Practical implications“Selling” e‐learning across the organization is paramount. The article highlights some of the innovative ways in which Xerox has done this.Originality/valueThe article is of most value to trainers and human‐resource specialists who are considering the adoption of e‐learning in their organization, and those who have adopted e‐learning but found their experiences to be disappointing.
Building global leadership at The Body Shop
Authors: Sinclair Annette , Agyeman Barbara 
Published: April 2007

PurposeFocuses on how The Body Shop is fostering and developing its global leaders.Design/methodology/approachThis paper is extracted from a research report that examines what is required for effective global leadership in an increasingly complex global marketplace through understanding the challenges that global organizations and leaders face.FindingsHighlights the importance of good communication skills, teamwork, exchanging best practice, and achieving the best balance between what should be decided at the centre and what is best left to regional and local decision makers.Practical implicationsIdentifies and presents practical strategies for developing and supporting effective global leadership.Originality/valueContains plenty to interest top managers in any large company with extensive international operations.
Graphical touch screen of thermal signs for the blind people – clinic tests
Authors: Boroń Krzysztof , Bratek Piotr , Kos Andrzej 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe paper aims to present the prototype of a graphical touch screen of thermal signs for the blind.Design/methodology/approachThe surface of every Peltier pump is a touch point that demands the thermal stabilization. Miniature Peltier modules can work both as heat and cold generators. They are also able to measure the required dot temperature. Graphical screen of thermal signs displays a simple symbol or Brail text. Special computer program was made to control this innovative device. The software enables monitoring the temperature of each Peltier module.FindingsThe experiments carried out with blind people show that they are able to recognize hot and cold dots. Infrared photos of the device have been made using the thermographic MK525 camera.Originality/valueThe paper illustrates that it is possible to display simple graphics by using Peltier micropumps.
A new system for locating leaks in urban water distribution pipes
Authors: Hunaidi Osama , Wang Alex 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo introduce a new, low‐cost and easy‐to‐use leak detection system to help water utilities improve their effectiveness in locating leaks. The paper also presents an overview of leakage management strategies including acoustic and other leak detection techniques.Design/methodology/approachThe design approach was based on the use personal computers as a platform and enhanced signal processing algorithms. This eliminated the need for a major component of the usual hardware of leak pinpointing correlators which reduced the system's cost; made it easy to use, and improved the effectiveness of locating leaks in all types of pipes.FindingsEffectiveness of the new leak detection system for pinpointing leaks was demonstrated using real world examples. The system has promising potential for all water utilities, including small and medium‐sized ones and utilities in developing countries.Practical implicationsThe leak detection system presented in the paper will help all water utilities, including small and medium‐sized ones and utilities in developing countries, to save water by dramatically improving their effectiveness in locating leaks in all types of pipes.Originality/valueThe paper presents information about a new effective system for locating leaks in water distribution pipes. Effective leak detection tools are needed by water utilities worldwide.
Interactivity plus innovative research equals power GRPS
Authors: Weller Dean 
Published: April 2007

PurposeTo demonstrate and discuss how New Media and TV can work together in a structured form to produce more potent Communication plans. Targeting Children and young people.Design/methodology/approachBy way of Qualitative research, and in house research systems and viewpoints based upon working on a number of child targeted campaigns over the last 20 years.FindingsThat TV advertising does not seem to be working In the way it “USED” to and that a communication gap has appeared.Originality/valueThe concept of a new type of GRP – Power GRP (TV or otherwise) that takes account of potential communication transfer in a cluttered communication environment and which tries to bridge the aforementioned gap.
Communicating health messages to young consumers
Authors: Stuart Stephen A. 
Published: April 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to establish the effectiveness of a new system for communicating energy balance on food labels.Design/methodology/approachA quantitative approach was taken to enquire into the ability of children and adolescents to understand the marketing communications contained on an existing food label in order to design a new system to rapidly communicate the concept of energy balance to a diverse market in terms that are appropriate and understandable.FindingsThere is a gap between the perceived ability of children and adolescents to understand food label information relating to the ingestion of a healthy diet and their demonstrable ability to so do. Through a novel combination of existing theoretical approaches, children and adolescents were able to understand energy balance more clearly than before.Research limitations/implicationsThe qualitative and quantitative samples were small and not representative of the larger sample. Future research needs to be undertaken to improve the reliability of the outcomes.Practical implicationsDesigning information systems based on the interests of target audiences can enhance their inclusiveness and usefulness.Originality/valueThe programme of work undertaken to deliver this paper is highly original. The value of the paper is that it initiates a whole new area of research. It is of value to anyone working in marketing communications, and social marketing in particular.
Myeloid suppressor cell‐associated immune dysfunction in CSA1M fibrosarcoma tumor‐bearing mice
Authors: Zhou Ru , He Pei‐Lan , Ren Yong‐Xin , Wang Wen‐Hai , Zhou Rong‐Yao , Wan Hua , Ono Shiro , Fujiwara Hiromi , Zuo Jian‐Ping 
Published: April 2007

CSA1M tumor‐bearing mice exhibited a severe immune dysfunction but the underlying mechanism remained unclear. In this study, we demonstrated that the myeloid suppressor cell (Mac‐1+Gr‐1+ cells)‐(MSC) related T cell immunosuppression in this tumor‐bearing model. In mice at the late stage of CSA1M tumor‐bearing (Late TB [8–10 weeks after cell inoculation in male BALB/c mice]), the percentages for CD4+ and CD8+ T cells decreased but Mac‐1+ cells increased in spleens with severe splenomegaly. There was no deficit for concanavalin A‐induced CD4+ and CD8+ T cell proliferation, interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) and interleukin (IL)‐4 production, but delayed‐type hypersensitivity reaction were attenuated. Analysis of cytokine production in unfractionated spleen cells showed a significant reduction of IFN‐γ and a marked increase of IL‐10 and IL‐4. In Late‐TB mice, splenic MSC number intensively accumulated; the mRNA expressions of the signal transducer and activator of transcription 1, interferon regulatory factor 1 (IRF‐1), and inducible nitric‐oxide synthase (iNOS) were enhanced in MSC; the nitric oxide production and arginase enzyme activity increased in MSC as well. Furthermore, the concanavalin A‐induced T cell proliferation was inhibited in the presence of lipopolysaccharide‐ or IFN‐γ‐activated MSC from Late‐TB mice, which could be reversed by the iNOS specific inhibitor L‐NMMA. iNOS seemed to be required more than arginase for the suppressive activity of MSC. Taken together, our results suggest that the immune dysfunction in tumor‐bearing mice might be causally associated with the accumulation of MSC and its tumor‐favoring property. (Cancer Sci 2007; 98: 882–889)
Cowpea bruchid Callosobruchus maculatus counteracts dietary protease inhibitors by modulating propeptides of major digestive enzymes
Authors: Ahn J.‐E. , Lovingshimer M. R. , Salzman R. A. , Presnail J. K. , Lu A. L. , Koiwa H. , Zhu‐Salzman K. 
Published: April 2007

AbstractCowpea bruchids, when challenged by consumption of the soybean cysteine protease inhibitor scN, reconfigure expression of their major CmCP digestive proteases and resume normal feeding and development. Previous evidence indicated that insects selectively induced CmCPs from subfamily B, that were more efficient in autoprocessing and possessed not only higher proteolytic, but also scN‐degrading activities. In contrast, dietary scN only marginally up‐regulated genes from the more predominant CmCP subfamily A that were inferior to subfamily B. To gain further molecular insight into this adaptive adjustment, we performed domain swapping between the two respective subfamily members B1 and A16, the latter unable to autoprocess or degrade scN even after intermolecular processing. Swapping the propeptides did not qualitatively alter autoprocessing in either protease isoform. Incorporation of either the N‐ (pAmBA) or C‐terminal (pAmAB) mature B1 segment into A16, however, was sufficient to prime autoprocessing of A16 to its mature form. Further, the swap at the N‐terminal mature A16 protein region (pAmBA) resulted in four amino acid changes. Replacement of these amino acid residues by the corresponding B1 residues, singly and pair‐wise, revealed that autoprocessing activation in pAmBA resulted from cumulative and/or coordinated individual effects. Bacterially expressed isolated propeptides (pA16 and pB1) differed in their ability to inhibit mature B1 enzyme. Lower inhibitory activity in pB1 is likely attributable to its lack of protein stability. This instability in the cleaved propeptide is necessary, although insufficient by itself, for scN‐degradation by the mature B1 enzyme. Taken together, cowpea bruchids modulate proteolysis of their digestive enzymes by controlling proCmCP cleavage and propeptide stability, which explains at least in part the plasticity cowpea bruchids demonstrate in response to protease inhibitors.
Transcriptional analysis of insecticide resistance in Anopheles stephensi using cross‐species microarray hybridization
Authors: Vontas J. , David J.‐P. , Nikou D. , Hemingway J. , Christophides G. K. , Louis C. , Ranson H. 
Published: April 2007

AbstractA large scale microarray (20k MMC1) from the African malaria vector Anopheles gambiae was used to monitor gene expression in insecticide resistant and susceptible strains of the Asian mosquito Anopheles stephensi. Heterologous hybridization at slightly reduced stringency yielded ∼7000 significant signals. Thirty‐six putative genes were differentially transcribed between the pyrethroid‐resistant (DUB‐R) and the susceptible (BEECH) strains. The expression profiles of selected transcripts were verified by real‐time PCR. A gene putatively involved in the thickening of the adult cuticle showed the most striking up‐regulation in DUB‐R. A more specialized microarray containing 231 An. gambiae genes putatively involved in insecticide detoxification was used to further analyse classical insecticide resistance genes. Three glutathione S‐transferase (GST) transcripts, one esterase and a cytochrome P450 were up‐regulated in the resistant strain, while two peroxidases were down‐regulated.
Improving insect pest management through population genetic data: a case study of the mosquito Ochlerotatus caspius (Pallas)
Authors: PORRETTA D. , CANESTRELLI D. , BELLINI R. , CELLI G. , URBANELLI S. 
Published: April 2007

Summary

Rationalizing the use of chemicals in pest control programmes is a fundamental goal that is aided by the knowledge of patterns of population connectivity and historical demography.
In this study, we used both mitochondrial and nuclear markers to investigate the genetic structure and diversity of the northern Italian populations of Ochlerotatus caspius, a mosquito of great public health and economic impact in Mediterranean countries.
A substantial genetic homogeneity was found among populations, with no association of pairwise population differentiation with the geographic distribution or the environmental heterogeneity of the breeding sites.
On a regional scale, we hypothesize a historical demographic expansion, probably associated with late Pleistocene palaeoclimatic events. Furthermore, our results suggest that ever since the expansion event, an extensive gene flow is still the major evolutionary force shaping the overall genetic pattern observed.
At a local geographic scale, evidence of recent growth in the size of the population was found in several sites. The increased availability of large breeding sites offered recently by rice paddies seem to have played a major role in giving rise to the observed demographic expansions. Indeed, these sites have become more numerous and undergone changes in the management technique (increased number of dry/flood cycles), which enhanced their suitability as breeding habitats.
Synthesis and applications. The migration pattern among populations of Oc. caspius in northern Italy appears to be high enough to maintain an extensive genetic homogeneity. Control programmes on a small geographic scale are thus unlikely to be effective. The modern agronomic techniques and the growth of rice paddies seem to have played a role in the recent demographic history of the species in the Po plain. Therefore, satisfactory control programmes should: (i) be focused mainly on rice paddies as breeding habitats; (ii) favour agronomical techniques involving a reduced number of dry/flood cycles; (iii) be carried out on a wide (regional) geographic scale; and (iv) monitor periodically the susceptibility of populations to the compounds used in control campaigns and adopt strategies aimed to avoid the possible spread of resistance alleles.
Ecology, politics and policy
Authors: LAWTON JOHN H. 
Published: April 2007

Summary

‘The British Ecological Society aims to promote the science of ecology through research and to use the findings of such research to educate the public and influence policy decisions which involve ecological matters.’ Yet, how successful have we been in influencing UK and EU environmental policy?
Many scientists hold to the ‘deficit model’ of turning science into policy, the view that if only politicians are told what the science reveals, ‘correct’ policies will automatically follow. Nothing could be further from the truth. Politicians have all kinds of reasons, some valid, some less valid, not to adopt what often seem to us to be common sense policies to protect the environment.
Here, I explore some of the successes and failures of ecologists to influence UK and European environmental policy, using acid deposition, the collapse of global marine fisheries, GM crops and climate change, carbon dioxide and ocean acidification as examples. I briefly review the extensive literature (largely ignored by natural scientists) on what social scientists have to say about evidence‐based policy‐making (or the lack of it) and why it often appears to be so difficult to persuade politicians to adopt sound environmental policies.
Synthesis and applications. Ecologists can, and do, influence government policy on the environment, but often via complex and iterative interactions that can be painfully slow, and may require fundamental changes in politicians’ belief systems, values and norms.
The risk of myocardial infarction and sudden cardiac death amongst snuff users with or without a previous history of smoking
Authors: Wennberg P. , Eliasson M. , Hallmans G. , Johansson L. , Boman K. , Jansson J.‐H. 
Published: April 2007

Abstract.Objectives.  To investigate the risk of a first myocardial infarction (MI) and sudden cardiac death (SCD) amongst male snuff users.Design.  We used a prospective incident case‐referent study design nested in the population‐based Västerbotten Intervention Program and the Northern Sweden MONICA study.Subjects.  Tobacco habits and cardiovascular risk factors were assessed at baseline screening and compared in 525 male MI cases (including 93 SCD cases) and 1798 matched referents.Results.  Myocardial infarction occurred on average 4 years and 2 months after the baseline screening. No increased risk for MI was found amongst snuff users without a previous history of smoking compared with nontobacco users after adjustments for body mass index, leisure time physical activity, educational level and cholesterol level (OR 0.82; 95% CI, 0.46–1.43). For snuff users with a previous history of smoking, the adjusted OR was 1.25 (95% CI, 0.80–1.96). Significantly increased risk for MI was found in current smokers with or without current snuff use. For SCD cases with survival time <24 h, the adjusted OR for snuff users without previous history of smoking was 1.18 (95% CI, 0.38–3.70) and for cases with survival time <1 h the OR was 0.38 (95% CI, 0.08–1.89).Conclusions.  We found no increased risk for MI amongst snuff users without a previous history of smoking. Amongst snuff users with a previous history of smoking, the tendency towards an increased risk for MI may reflect the residual risk from former smoking. This study does not support the hypothesis that the risk for SCD is increased amongst snuff users.
Maternal factors in the etiology of fetal malnutrition in Nigeria
Authors: ADEBAMI OLUSEGUN J. , OYEDEJI GABRIEL A. , OWA JOSHUA A. , OYELAMI OYEKU A. 
Published: April 2007

AbstractBackground: The main objective of the study was to determine the role of maternal factors in the etiology of fetal malnutrition (FM) in Nigeria. Neonatal and Maternity Units of the Wesley Guild Hospital Ilesa, Nigeria, a unit of the Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospitals Complex, Ile‐Ife was the setting for the study.Methods: This was a prospective study of consecutive, singleton, term live babies delivered between January and August 2001. Fetal malnutrition was diagnosed using Clinical Assessment of Fetal Nutritional Status (CANS) and the score (CANSCORE) adapted by Metcoff. The maternal prenatal record was checked and additional history was obtained from the mother. This included history of maternal illness and drugs taken during pregnancy. The socioeconomic class of the parents was also documented. Nutritional status of the mother was determined using mid arm circumference (MAC) and the body mass index (BMI). Babies were stratified into babies with FM and babies without FM. The two groups of babies were compared.Results: Of the 473 studied, 89 [18.8%] had FM. Maternal factors found associated with FM were: lack of antenatal care, young mother (<18 years), primiparity, maternal undernutrition (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 and MAC < 23.5 cm), low socioeconomic status, pregnancy‐induced hypertension, antepatum hemorrhage, and maternal infections especially malaria, urinary tract infections and HIV (P < 0.05).Conclusion: Improvement in the socioeconomic status of women and good antenatal care will reduce most of the maternal factors associated with FM in Nigeria. Therefore, antenatal should be made cheap and accessible to all pregnant mothers.