bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
A Feedback Regulatory Module Formed by LITTLE ZIPPER and HD-ZIPIII Genes
Authors: Wenkel Stephan , Emery John , Hou Bi-Huei , Evans Matthew M.S. , Barton M.K. 
Published: December 2007

AbstractThe Arabidopsis thaliana REVOLUTA (REV) protein is a member of the class III homeodomain-leucine zipper (HD-ZIPIII) proteins. REV is a potent regulator of leaf polarity and vascular development. Here, we report the identification of a gene family that encodes small leucine zipper–containing proteins (LITTLE ZIPPER [ZPR] proteins) where the leucine zipper is similar to that found in REV, PHABULOSA, and PHAVOLUTA proteins. The transcript levels of the ZPR genes increase in response to activation of a steroid-inducible REV protein. We show that the ZPR proteins interact with REV in vitro and that ZPR3 prevents DNA binding by REV in vitro. Overexpression of ZPR proteins in Arabidopsis results in phenotypes similar to those seen when HD-ZIPIII function is reduced. We propose a negative feedback model in which REV promotes transcription of the ZPR genes. The ZPR proteins in turn form heterodimers with the REV protein, preventing it from binding DNA. The HD-ZIPIII/ZPR regulatory module would serve not only to dampen the effect of fluctuations in HD-ZIPIII protein levels but more importantly would provide a potential point of regulation (control over the ratio of inactive heterodimers to active homodimers) that could be influenced by other components of the pathway governing leaf polarity.
Perceived diversity and organizational performance
Authors: Allen Richard S. , Dawson Gail , Wheatley Kathleen , White Charles S. 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the relationship between employee perceptions of diversity within the senior management, management and non‐management levels of their organizations and their perceptions of organizational performance.Design/methodology/approachSurveys were administered to 391 managers or professionals in 130 organizations located in the southeastern United States to determine their perceptions of diversity and performance within their organizations.FindingsRegression analysis found strong support for the hypothesis that employee perceptions of diversity at the senior management level of an organization is positively related to perceptions of organizational performance. Likewise, there was support for the hypothesis that employee perceptions of diversity at the non‐manager level were positively related to perceptions of organizational performance.Research limitations/implicationsThe current study was based strictly on perceptual measures. Future research could also consider the use of more objective measures of diversity to gauge any potential differences between perception and reality. Considering that the sample was drawn strictly from the southeastern US, the conclusions may not be applicable to other cultures in other parts of the world.Practical implicationsOrganizations need to be sure that they focus on initiatives that have a positive influence on employee perceptions of diversity within the ranks of senior management and non‐management.Originality/valueThis research sheds new light on the importance of employee perceptions of diversity within the various levels of employees in their organizations and organizational performance.
An evaluation of employee motivation in the extended public sector in Greece
Authors: Manolopoulos Dimitris 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to advance the understanding of the relationship between work motivation and organisational performance in the extended public sector, by testing empirically common elements of existing theoretical frameworks.Design/methodology/approachA unique questionnaire‐based survey was carried out in three organisations/corporations where the state is the major stakeholder. Of the 1,000 questionnaires distributed, 454 were returned and included in the analysis. By using descriptive statistics the provision of extrinsic rewards and intrinsic motives in the extended public sector of Greece was identified.FindingsFindings show that the public sector in Greece is more likely to provide extrinsic than intrinsic rewards, however the latter seems to be related to better organisational outcomes. Both individuals' ability and demographic characteristics are core determinants of employees' motivational preferences.Research limitations/implicationsThe core of this paper tests empirically the relationship between intrinsic and extrinsic motivation with performance in a country of EU “periphery”. Caution should be exercised in generalizing the results for more advanced economies.Practical implicationsOrganisational leaders and public management in Greece need to conceive work motivation as a complex system and recognize the importance of intrinsic incentives. Originality/value – There is currently limited evidence on the impact of motivation in the performance of the extended public sector. This research is one of the very few that has been made from the perspective of employees. To the extent of the author's knowledge, this is the first time that a detailed public sector level analysis on work motivation has been presented for Greece.
Two representatives but no representation: cases from Estonia
Authors: Kallaste Epp , Jaakson Krista , Eamets Raul 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to discover how non‐unionised representatives (NERs) are created and what their role is in comparison to unionised representation. The authors aim to analyse why the institution of non‐unionised employee representation is created if its functions overlap with those of the unions, including the functions of collective bargaining and information‐consultation.Design/methodology/approachThe case study involves interviews with representatives and executive directors, as well as a survey of the employees of two companies.FindingsThe results show that when there is a weak union, the employers initiate an NER in order to involve the whole workforce in the collective agreement. The NER is elected by employees even though it was initiated by the employer. The roles of the two representatives do not differ much, the main function for both being collective bargaining with some provision for information and consultation.Originality/valueThe unique situation in Estonia, which is about to change with adoption of EU directive 14/2002/EC, enables the analysis of cases involving two different representative institutions with the same functions in the same company. This provides valuable input for researchers describing in practice the behaviour of representatives and employers in this situation. It also provides East‐European policy makers some idea about how policies that address collective bargaining and the involvement of workers should be designed.
On document supply in Ireland and the USA: experiences at the Boole Library, Cork University
Authors: Ashton Susanna 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to compare the Boole Library at Cork University, Ireland with university libraries in the USA in terms of resource sharing and inter‐library lending.Design/methodology/approachComparisons are made between Boole Library and university libraries in the USA with reference to lack of funds and resources. The paper highlights the differences in funding of inter‐library lending.FindingsMuch could be said about how electronic resources are altering the landscape and future of interlibrary loan, but no media forms have evolved to entirely satisfy readers' need to handle the physical book in front of them.Originality/valueOne of the remarkable things about the physical book is what a superb technological form it is. Books are both portable and strong. There is still no better way to read lengthy texts. Although more people are requesting articles electronically, the demand for books seems to keep growing apace with the development of shared library catalogs.
Ten years after
Authors: Caplan Priscilla 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to reflect on progress over the last ten years in the field of digital preservation for cultural heritage institutions.Design/methodology/approachThis is an opinion piece, based on the experience of a practitioner in digital preservation.FindingsDigital preservation has become a mainstream activity. There are differences in the American and European approaches to supporting and organizing preservation initiatives. US institutions would benefit from wider outreach and education efforts.Practical implicationsThe implications are left to the reader, but may suggest that more reflection on the goals and strategies of the preservation community is in order.Originality/valueThis paper identifies a need to develop and support distributed centers of excellence to promote digital preservation, provide expertise to other institutions, and to organize sharing and training opportunities for their constituencies.
Heuristic evaluation of interface usability for a web‐based OPAC
Authors: Yushiana Mansor , Abdul Rani Widyawati 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the usability of a web‐based OPAC (WebPAC) user interface at the International Islamic University Malaysia (IIUM). It also looks at the applicability of heuristic evaluation in designing a user‐centered WebPAC interface.Design/methodology/approachBased on Nielsen's ten usability heuristic principles, the study focuses on three heuristics only, i.e. aesthetic and minimalist design, match between interface and the real world, and visibility of interface status.FindingsResults of the study found that the WebPAC interface conforms to at least 70 percent usability properties prescribed. Usability problems violated in the interface were identified.Practical implicationsThe study suggests that heuristic evaluation is applicable in libraries to asses the usability of user interface for online catalogs.Originality/valueHeuristic evaluation could assist libraries in designing user‐centered interface for online catalogs.
Changing markets, changing relationships
Authors: Andrews Mark 
Published: December 2007

PurposeDissatisfaction with the online public access catalog (in particular) and the integrated library system (in general) have prompted a variety of responses from libraries and library automation vendors. The purpose of this paper is to summarize and examine these responses to get some sense of the library automation market's “trajectory.”Design/methodology/approachThe approach is to write a discursive essay on: the “broken” online public access catalogs; a review of the literature about online catalog features, limitations and remedies; customer (library) responses; (library automation) vendor responses, including a review of recent market surveys, and an attempted meta‐analysis of some of those surveys; and an attempt to redefine the ILS.FindingsThe findings suggest the market “trajectory” is towards products other than the “traditional” ILS. Literature describing ILS faults and remedies may be productively applied to these other products.Research limitations/implicationsThe attempted meta‐analysis is not statistically valid, so it can only be used as “loosely” descriptive of the library automation market. The impact and potential utility of social computing tools is not addressed.Practical implicationsA redefined ILS includes the wide range of services libraries provide or attempt to provide, rather than operating within the narrow definition of the traditional ILS. The essay provides a wider range of products for inclusion in requests for proposals for new library systems, and suggests new criteria to evaluate library systems as a whole, and the constituent parts of such systems.Originality/valueThe findings, if applied to the creation of new requests for proposals for new library automation products, may make it easier for libraries to state their needs, and for vendors to create new systems to meet those needs.
Anthropologists in the library: a review of Studying Students
Authors: Seadle Michael 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to review the book Studying Students: The Undergraduate Research Project at the University of Rochester edited by Nancy Fried Foster and Susan Gibbons.Design/methodology/approachThe review first examines the methods used in the Rochester study, and then considers the conclusions for their local implications as well as their meaning for the library profession.FindingsThe Rochester study should serve as a wake‐up call for librarians that imagine they understand their user‐base. Over and over again in this book the authors note how much they learned about the students after studying them systematically and how surprising they found the results. It seems unlikely that the Rochester experience is unique.Originality/valueThe transformation that took place at the University of Rochester Libraries should serve as an example for the profession as a whole.
Interfacial reactions between Sn‐based solders and AgPt thick film metallizations on LTCC
Authors: Nousiainen Olli , Kangasvieri Tero , Rönkä Kari , Rautioaho Risto , Vähäkangas Jouko 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to investigate the metallurgical reactions between two commercial AgPt thick films used as a solder land on a low temperature co‐fired ceramic (LTCC) module and solder materials (SnAgCu, SnInAgCu, and SnPbAg) in typical reflow conditions and to clarify the effect of excessive intermetallic compound (IMC) formation on the reliability of LTCC/printed wiring boards (PWB) assemblies.Design/methodology/approachMetallurgical reactions between liquid solders and AgPt metallizations of LTCC modules were investigated by increasing the number of reflow cycles with different peak temperatures. The microstructures of AgPt metallization/solder interfaces were analyzed using SEM/EDS investigation. In addition, a test LTCC module/PWB assembly with an excess IMC layer within the joints was fabricated and exposed to a temperature cycling test in a −40 to 125°C temperature range. The characteristic lifetime of the test assembly was determined using DC resistance measurements. The failure mechanism of the test assembly was verified using scanning acoustic microscopy and SEM investigation.FindingsThe results showed that the higher peak reflow temperature of common lead‐free solders had a significant effect on the consumption of the original AgPt metallization of LTCC modules. The results also suggested that the excess porosity of the metallization accelerated the degradation of the metallization layer. Finally, the impact of these adverse metallurgical effects on the actual failure mechanism in an LTCC/PWB assembly was demonstrated.Originality/valueThis paper proves how essential it is to know the actual LTCC metallization/solder interactions that occur during reflow soldering and to recognize their effect on solder joint reliability in LTCC module/PWB assemblies. Moreover, the adverse effect of using lead‐free solders on the degradation of Ag‐based metallizations and, consequently, on board level reliability is demonstrated. Finally, practical guidelines for selecting materials for second‐level solder interconnections of LTCC module are given.
Multiphysics simulation of microwave curing in micro‐electronics packaging applications
Authors: Tilford T. , Sinclair K.I. , Bailey C. , Desmulliez M.P.Y. , Goussettis G. , Parrott A.K. , Sangster A.J. 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to present an open‐ended microwave curing system for microelectronics components and a numerical analysis framework for virtual testing and prototyping of the system, enabling design of physical prototypes to be optimized, expediting the development process.Design/methodology/approachAn open‐ended microwave oven system able to enhance the cure process for thermosetting polymer materials utilised in microelectronics applications is presented. The system is designed to be mounted on a precision placement machine enabling curing of individual components on a circuit board. The design of the system allows the heating pattern and heating rate to be carefully controlled optimising cure rate and cure quality. A multi‐physics analysis approach has been adopted to form a numerical model capable of capturing the complex coupling that exists between physical processes. Electromagnetic analysis has been performed using a Yee finite‐difference time‐domain scheme, while an unstructured finite volume method has been utilized to perform thermophysical analysis. The two solvers are coupled using a sampling‐based cross‐mapping algorithm.FindingsThe numerical results obtained demonstrate that the numerical model is able to obtain solutions for distribution of temperature, rate of cure, degree of cure and thermally induced stresses within an idealised polymer load heated by the proposed microwave system.Research limitations/implicationsThe work is limited by the absence of experimentally derived material property data and comparative experimental results. However, the model demonstrates that the proposed microwave system would seem to be a feasible method of expediting the cure rate of polymer materials.Originality/valueThe findings of this paper will help to provide an understanding of the behaviour of thermosetting polymer materials during microwave cure processing.
E‐strategy in the UK retail grocery sector: a resource‐based analysis
Authors: Ellis‐Chadwick Fiona , Doherty Neil F. , Anastasakis Leonidas 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to develop a better understanding of the expansion and development strategies used by retailers based in the UK for creating sustained competitive advantage in online grocery retailing.Design/methodology/approachThe objectives of this research were addressed by using a qualitative research strategy consisting of two specific methods of data collection: primary and secondary data collection.FindingsThe study suggests that retailers have tended to follow an incremental approach towards the development and expansion of their online service provision. This route to expansion involves the trialling of new ideas, keeping close watch on the competition while endeavouring to introduce innovative new services to capture consumer interest and deliver customer benefits.Research limitations/implicationsThe major limitation associated with this study is with respect to its heavy reliance on secondary sources. Consequently, assumptions have had to be made about the retailers' strategic thinking, as we were not able to secure any first hand accounts. However, in terms of the research implications, this study has both demonstrated the value of secondary data sources, and highlighted the benefits of adopting a resource‐based analysis.Practical implicationsThe findings highlight the importance of viewing an organisation's web‐based IT resources, as being only one element of its e‐commerce strategy.Originality/valueThis study makes a major contribution in two ways. First, it has mapped out the strategic pathways followed by the UK's five leading grocery retailers, in terms of their adoption of e‐commerce during the first complete decade of online retailing. Second, the paper has demonstrated how the resource‐based theory provides a very useful lens through which these pathways can be viewed and ultimately explained.
Antecedents of organizational politics perceptions in Kuwait business organizations
Authors: Muhammad Ali H. 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to examine three sets of antecedents of organizational politics perceptions: organizational antecedents, job work context antecedents, and personal antecedents.Design/methodology/approachSurvey data were collected from 206 full‐time Arab employees of seven Kuwaiti companies and four industries (financial services, investment, real estate, and communication).FindingsResults of multiple regression analysis showed job/work context factors and hierarchical level to be significant predictors of perceptions of organizational politics. However, contrary to the findings of previous research, formalization and centralization did not have a significant effect on organizational politics perceptions.Research limitations/implicationsThe potential for common method variance that may be associated with the use of a single source, self‐report methodology of data collection represents a limitation.Practical implicationsThe study is very useful in raising the level of awareness of managers, at various levels of the organization, of the potential consequences of their political behavior to their employees.Originality/valueThis study expands such research on organizational politics in a different cultural setting, one that is characterized by lower individualism and higher power distance.
REIT returns: between the Pacific and the Atlantic
Authors: Diane Li Deqing , Yung Kenneth 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is twofold in examining the international transmission of REIT returns volatility. The first purpose is to add to the literature on whether the real estate securities market and the broader equity market are integrated. The second objective of the study is to determine whether geographic risk factors can be transmitted beyond their region of influence.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses the GARCH(1, 1), EGARCH, and GARCH‐M models.FindingsThe results show that there are significant international spillovers of REIT returns volatility within the Pacific region. The results also show that there are significant volatility transmissions between the Pacific and the Atlantic regions.Practical implicationsThe results are consistent with the implication that the real estate sector and the general equity market are integrated such that geographic risk can be transmitted across national borders. The result will have major implications for international investment strategies.Originality/valueTo date, there has been no published study on the international transmission of REIT returns volatility. This study therefore examines whether the conditional variance of REIT returns of a country is affected by volatility transmission across markets in the same region using four Pacific markets.
Auditors as monitors: evidence from discretionary accruals of Laventhol and Horwath clients
Authors: Reed Brad J. , Lovata Linda M. , Costigan Michael L. , Ortegren Alan K. 
Published: December 2007

PurposeThis paper aims to provide evidence on the hypothesis that auditors differ in how they constrain discretionary accruals (DAs) of their clients. The paper seeks to analyze changes in DAs for clients of Laventhol and Horwath associated with the appointment of a successor auditor.Design/methodology/approachThe study uses regression and archival data to separate a firm's accounting accruals into discretionary and non‐DAs. The study then examines changes in a firm's DAs associated with a change in auditors.FindingsReplacing LH with a new auditor resulted in a statistically significant decrease in DAs. This result is contrary to prior research and could be due to the prior research using voluntary auditor changes where variables such as financial distress and opinion shopping could drive the results.Originality/valueThe study provides results that differ from prior research. This study shows that the auditor change is associated with a systematic decline in the level of a firm's DAs. The results could be due to the forced nature of this auditor change as opposed to voluntary auditor changes used in prior research.