bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Traceability data management for food chains
Authors: Folinas Dimitris , Manikas Ioannis , Manos Basil 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe main objectives of the paper are to identify the needs in data that are considered as fundamental for the efficient food traceability and to introduce a generic framework (architecture) of traceability data management that will act as guideline for all entities/food business operators involved.Design/methodology/approachThe traceability system introduced is based on the implementation of XML (eXtensible Markup Language) technology. In the first stage, the necessary traceability data are identified and categorized. In the second stage, the selected data are transformed and inserted into a five‐element generic framework/model, using PML (Physical Markup Language), which is a standard technology of XML.FindingsThe assessment of information communication and diffusion underlines that the particular model is simple in use and user‐friendly, by enabling information flow through conventional technologies.Practical implicationsThe main feature of this framework is the simplicity in use and the ability of communicating information through commonly accessible means such as the internet, e‐mail, and cell phones. This makes it particularly easy to use, even when it comes to the base of the supply chains (farmers, fishermen, cattle breeders, etc).Originality/valueAn integrated traceability system must be able to file and communicate information regarding product quality and origin, and consumer safety. The main features of such a system include adequate “filtering” of information, information extracting, from already existed databases, harmonization with international codification standards, internet standards and up to date technologies. The framework presented in this paper fulfills all the above features.
Obesity, convenience and “phood”
Authors: Dixon Jane M. , Hinde Sarah J. , Banwell Cathy L. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeWith rising levels of obesity, public health attention has turned to the “obesogenic environment”, which includes the ready availability of convenience foods. We seek to provide an historical account of the popularity of convenience foods, alongside an elaboration of how international and Australian experts believe convenience food has contributed to rising rates of obesity. In this context, the paper aims to speculate about the likely success of functional foods, or “phoods”, and draw conclusions about potential implications for the obesity epidemic.Design/methodology/approachAn “expanded” Delphi survey was utilised to identify key trends underpinning the rise in obesity and expert's hypotheses about how these trends have operated to promote obesity. Elaborating on these data, an historical perspective of the emergence and consolidation of convenience foods in Australian diets, with particular attention paid to foods that offer “healthy convenience”, is provided.FindingsAustralian research shows how the growing consumption of convenience foods is contributing to upward trends in overweight. It is argued that the functional food sector is well placed in a context where consumers are being encouraged to embrace convenient food solutions, while also being concerned about the nutritional qualities of foods.Originality/valueWhilst the development of healthy and convenient “phoods” may benefit people's health, the paper identifies how they may also undermine efforts to reduce the weight of the population. This makes the regulatory issue of health claims pivotal to balance the interests of the functional food sector and the public health community.
Intrinsic and extrinsic quality attributes, loyalty and buying intention: an analysis for a PDO product
Authors: Fandos Carmina , Flavián Carlos 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo examine the influence of the perceived quality of a protected designation of origin (PDO) product on consumer loyalty and buying intentions.Design/methodology/approachThe study examines the relationships between intrinsic and extrinsic quality attributes, loyalty and buying intention. Information was obtained from an initial qualitative approach based on a group dynamic to allow the development of scales to quantify the different concepts. Personal interviews were then conducted with 251 consumers based on a structured questionnaire.FindingsThe study reveals the existence of a positive and significant relationship between the extrinsic attributes of a traditional food product and loyalty expressed by consumers. It also shows that the perceived quality associated with the intrinsic attributes of the product has a positive and significant influence on buying intentions.Practical implicationsThe PDO should seek to foster the perceived quality of intrinsic attributes in order to enhance consumer buying intentions, which may be viewed as the pragmatic side of consumer behaviour, an expression of the behavioural side of their attitude, and a reflection of their actions and short‐term behaviour. It should also foster the perceived quality of extrinsic attributes so as to achieve greater loyalty which, in turn, will be expressed as an increase in repeat purchases. This loyalty may be considered from an attitudinal standpoint involving feelings and affects towards a product or brand, and is related with ideal images held by consumers about their own actions.Originality/valueThis paper shows that positive attitudes, feelings and affects towards symbolic factors are fundamental components of attitudinal loyalty. These aspects reflect the consumer ideal, because such attitudes are based on positive feelings and affects towards symbolic factors. This loyalty, in turn, constitutes the ideal behaviour with which the consumer identifies, although it is not necessarily his/her actual behaviour.
Agrifood SMEs in Greece: the role of collective action
Authors: Lamprinopoulou Chrysoula , Tregear Angela , Ness Mitchell 
Published: September 2006

PurposeMany previous studies have indicated that by acting collectively, agrifood SMEs can improve performance and enhance their contribution to local areas. Although collective action between agrifood SMEs proliferates in many southern European countries, relatively few successful cases appear to exist in Greece. The purpose of this paper is to explore the reasons for this, by relating the theoretical conditions of successful collective action to evidence from existing studies on the Greek situation.Design/methodology/approachDrawing from the literature on small firm networks, and previous empirical studies of agrifood SMEs in Europe, the paper identifies six conditions that underpin successful collective action: three contextual (type of market, social cohesiveness, institutional involvement) and three behavioural (market orientation, co‐operative spirit, existence of an initiator).FindingsRelating these conditions to existing evidence on Greek agrifood SMEs, the analysis suggests that socio‐cultural factors and institutional involvement are often barriers to successful collective action. However, the presence of at least some examples of strong agrifood SME networks in Greece indicates that such barriers can be overcome. The paper concludes by identifying the research questions to be tackled by future empirical study of Greek agrifood SMEs.Originality/valueThe paper explores the important phenomenon of small firm networks in the under‐researched country of Greece. In addition, the paper also presents an original synthesis of key conditions under which collective action thrives, drawn from many previous studies of networks and collective action in the agrifood sector throughout Europe.
Food hygiene education in UK primary schools: a nation‐wide survey of teachers' views
Authors: Bielby Gill , Egan Bernadette , Eves Anita , Lumbers Margaret , Raats Monique , Adams Martin 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to show how a nation‐wide survey of teachers investigated the teaching of food hygiene in primary schools. The survey determined which information sources were known and used by those responsible for teaching food hygiene.Design/methodology/approachPostal questionnaires were distributed to 3,806 primary schools throughout the UK (response rate 23 per cent). The questionnaire was developed based on the results of in‐depth interviews with school teachers and included topics such as where teachers gained up‐to‐date food hygiene messages, methods used to teach food hygiene, and how key food hygiene messages are reinforced. Teachers cited most preferred resources for teaching food hygiene, influences on the choice of these resources, and limitations on use.FindingsOverall, the results indicated that food hygiene is taught in a number of subject areas, with handwashing and personal hygiene being the principal topics. Teachers use a combination of methods to teach food hygiene and to reinforce food safety messages. The principal limitations of teaching this topic were identified as a lack of suitable space and curriculum time. Teachers across the UK also identified new resources that would support the teaching of food hygiene.Originality/valueThe study identified how primary school teachers deliver food hygiene messages through the curriculum, daily routines and whole school initiatives. Ways in which primary school teachers could be supported when delivering food hygiene education have been suggested.
Assessment of consumer food safety education provided by local authorities in the UK
Authors: Redmond Elizabeth C. , Griffith Christopher J. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the extent, sources, diversity, costs, formats and content of food safety educational interventions for consumers provided by UK Local Authorities (LAs). Inadequate implementation of food safety practices in the home is known to contribute to the incidence of foodborne disease and therefore effective food safety education concerning risks and correct domestic food‐handling behaviours is essential.Design/methodology/approachA postal questionnaire was administered to all Environmental Health and Health Promotion departments in LAs in 2004 (n=436). The questionnaire assessed the extent of LA provision of consumer food safety advice, types, formats and content of interventions, rationale for information provision, methods used for design and delivery of information and participation in national initiatives.FindingsA considerable quantity of food safety advice is provided to UK consumers; in general this is variable between regions, variable in quality, infrequently evaluated and relatively uncoordinated. Overall, 95 per cent of UK LAs who responded to the questionnaire reported current provision of consumer food safety advice. The most common intervention used for provision of consumer hygiene information was leaflets (93 per cent of LAs) and data indicated that this is likely to continue. Hand‐washing (87 per cent), cross‐contamination (85 per cent) and cooking (77 per cent) were the most common issues reportedly addressed in hygiene initiatives. Less than a third of LAs reported evaluating the effectiveness of food hygiene advice.Originality/valueThis study has provided evidence of a large quantity of unique and diverse intervention materials across the UK, and suggests the need for the sharing of information materials and areas of innovation between LAs. Provision of generic, managed and co‐ordinated general and targeted food safety education resources in the UK may not only decrease important time and financial costs within LAs, but also increase consumer confidence in the accuracy of information provided and alleviate the risk for potential confusion of information from differing sources.
Food safety education initiative to increase consumer use of food thermometers in the United States
Authors: McCurdy Sandra M. , Takeuchi Masami T. , Edwards Zena M. , Edlefsen Miriam , Kang Dong‐Hyun , Elaine Mayes V. , Hillers Virginia N. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this research is to increase consumers' use of food thermometers to test the endpoint temperature of small cuts of meats.Design/methodology/approachThe project integrates research, classroom and non‐formal education.FindingsInstant‐read food thermometers were available in >73 percent of USA supermarkets and most were accurate within 1.1°C. Lethality findings include that ground beef patties should either be cooked in a two‐sided grill or turned frequently during cooking. Focus group participants said the primary motivator to food thermometer use was avoidance of foodborne illness. Educational materials positively affected thermometer use among consumers.Practical implicationsBehavior change will be facilitated by widespread availability of thermometers, inclusion of endpoint temperatures in recipes, and seeing others use food thermometers.Originality/valueThis project develops and delivers information to encourage use of food thermometers to assess endpoint temperature when cooking small meat items.
The selection of international business managers: part 1
Authors: Hurn Brian J. 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe paper seeks to examine how potential international business managers used to be selected for overseas assignments and analyses selection methods currently employed, commenting on their validity.Design/methodology/approachThe various methods are compared in an attempt to draw up a list of required competencies on which there is a fair degree of consensus. A comparison is also made between the requirements of the traditional expatriate manager and the new breed of young international managers who operate in the global marketplace. Included is the author's own experience in this field. The use of psychometric and personality tests, along with reliance on interviews and past performance, is also assessed. In addition, the increased use of assessment centres and their resulting advantages are highlighted. The concerns and expectations of young potential international managers faced with careers involving considerable time away from the home base are examined, in particular the problems of dual careers, future employment on repatriation and family concerns. Surveys by multinational companies are cited in support.FindingsThere is very often no apparent correlation between traditional methods of selection and actual performance. Recent research and the resulting practice put more emphasis on selection methods that attempt to assess the ability to work effectively and live harmoniously in a multinational, multicultural environment.Originality/valueAgainst a background of a likely reduced pool of potential managers, the paper emphasises selection methods aimed at reducing the margin of error in the recruitment of international managers.
Audiovisual materials in UK public libraries: economic sense?
Authors: Morris Anne , Ayre Catherine , Jones Amy 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine the provision of audiovisual materials in UK public libraries and their economic value.Design/methodology/approachA questionnaire survey of all the public library authorities in the UK was used to investigate current provision of audiovisual material, expected future provision, and the amounts spent on and generated by audiovisual collections. Data collected, together with those available from other reputable sources, were then used to estimate the cost benefit or value of audiovisual provision.FindingsThe provision of audiovisual material in UK public libraries is widespread and varied. While audiovisual collections provide economic value and generate income from charging for loans, there are significant costs inherent in providing such services. Concerns are raised about the constant developments in media formats and the ability to make adequate provision. A cost benefit of 1:1.34 using the PVB (present value benefits) based on maximum loan charges was found, meaning that the UK gets £1.34 direct benefit from every £1.00 spent on the audiovisual service.Research limitations/implicationsThere are different methods used by economists to estimate value of public services, all having limitations. The method used in this research is no exception. The cost‐benefit ratio found is based on maximum loan charges. However, this figure would be higher if the PVB had been based on purchase costs or lower if the PVB had been based on mean loan charges. Further, the figures do not include indirect benefits or option benefits, so are likely to be underestimates of the true cost benefit of the audiovisual service.Practical implicationsThis research is likely to be of interest to public library managers and funding bodies needing evidence for the value of audiovisual provision.Originality/valueThis is the first attempt to put a monetary value on audiovisual provision in the UK. It also provides insights into current and future audiovisual provision.
The invisible web: an empirical study of “cognitive invisibility”
Authors: Ford Nigel , Mansourian Yazdan 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to report an empirical investigation into conceptions of the “invisible web”.Design/methodology/approachThis was an exploratory qualitative study based on in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with 15 members of academic staff from three biology‐related departments at the University of Sheffield. Concepts emerged from an inductive analysis of the interview data to form a tentative model.FindingsA distinction is drawn between technical objective conceptions of the “invisible web” that commonly appear in the literature, and a cognitive subjective conception based on searchers' perceptions of search failure, and a tentative model of “cognitive invisibility” is presented. The relationship between objective and subjective conceptions, and implications for training, are discussed.Research limitations/implicationsThe research was qualitative and exploratory, designed to elicit sensitising concepts and to “map the territory”. It thus aims to provide a tentative model that could form the basis for more systematic study. Such research could investigate the validity of the categories in different and/or larger samples, seek further to illuminate, challenge, extend or refute the model, and address issues of generalisability.Practical implicationsThe paper presents a conceptual model that is intended to be a useful reference point for researchers wishing to investigate user‐based aspects of search failure and the invisible web. It may also be useful to trainers and those interested in developing information literacy, in that it differentiates technical objective and cognitive subjective conceptions of “invisibility, and discusses the implications for helping searchers develop more effective searching capabilities.Originality/valueThe paper offers an alternative cognitive subjective view of “web invisibility” to that more commonly presented in the literature. It contributes to a still small body of empirical research into user‐based aspects of the invisible web.
Legal deposit and collection development in a digital world
Authors: Joint Nicholas 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo compare and contrast national collection management principles for hard copy deposit collections and for digital deposit collections.Design/methodology/approachA selective overview and summary of work to date on digital legal deposit and digital preservation.FindingsThat the comprehensive nature of traditional print deposit collection often absolves national libraries from the more intractable problems of stock selection; whereas the difficulty of collecting the entire national digital web space means that intelligent selection is vital for the building of meaningful digital deposit collections.Research limitations/implicationsThese are indicative and partial insights based on small scale interrogation of trial digital deposit collections: the issue of collection development and selection biases in digital collection building needs greater in‐depth research before hard and fast recommendations about collection management criteria can be arrived at.Practical implicationsThe principles outlined may offer practitioners in national libraries some useful insights into how to manage their digital deposit collections.Originality/valueThis paper emphasises the social and political aspects of digital deposit issues, rather than the legal or technical aspects.
The 21st century challenges: the view from the Scottish Parliament
Authors: Seaton Janet 
Published: September 2006

PurposeThe Scottish Parliament Information Centre (SPICe) was created at the end of the 20th century to meet the needs of the new Scottish Parliament. With the opportunity to start afresh, this paper seeks to analyse the most important elements on which new services were based.Design/methodology/approachA discursive account giving a general overview.FindingsLibrary and information services increasingly face the challenge of justifying the value they are adding to their organisation. Experience showed the following requirements to be crucial factors in achieving this goal: the need to align your service with the objectives of your organisation, the need to build and maintain your credibility and the need to meet your customers face to face.Research limitations/implicationsThis narrative approach provides material for further research and more theoretical analysis of the relationship between government and its supporting information services.Originality/valueThere are so few examples of establishing new parliamentary information services that this analysis of the initial and continuing challenges involved in creating such a service is uniquely instructive.
Emergent user roles and perceived requirements in a social‐oriented community
Authors: Tang Jih‐Hsin , Yang Heng‐Li 
Published: September 2006

PurposeTo explore the relationship between emergent user roles and perceived importance of user requirements in a social‐oriented community.Design/methodology/approachA field study was designed to uncover hidden online social networks, and to elicit and rate user requirements.FindingsUser roles might have an impact on their perceptions of requirements. The study showed that significant differences of perceptual requirements on regulation and links exist across user roles.Research limitations/implicationsOnly a small‐sized online community (approximately 300 members) participated in this study. One‐quarter of the population filled out the online survey.Practical implicationsOnline community builders should invite a handful of different user roles to participate in the design and evolutionary processes of information systems.Originality/valueThe paper challenges popular views about the design of online communities.