bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using best practices: librarians, graduate students and instruction
Authors: Stec Eileen M.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To test the belief that only experienced librarians can effectively teach bibliographic instruction, and compare the effectiveness of active learning methods versus usual practice.

Design/methodology/approach

Undergraduate learning was quantitatively measured using a pre‐ and post‐assessment instrument. Two groups of library instructors, degreed librarians and graduate Library Science students participated, reporting the percentage of scripted, active‐learning instruction techniques used in classes.

Findings

There was no significant difference in undergraduate learning gains, regardless of instructor type. However, all library instructors using at least 80 percent of the scripted, active‐learning techniques showed more undergraduate learning than those instructors who did not use as many active learning techniques. In addition, undergraduate assessment showed few learning gains after participation in two library instruction sessions.

Research limitations/implications

An exclusively female undergraduate population was studied.

Practical implications

It is not the experience of the teacher, but rather the teaching methods used that increase student learning, indicating the need for continuing professional development in this area. Additionally, two library instruction sessions, even when integrated into a course, show few student learning gains. Consequently, other instructional approaches must be considered.

Originality/value

Effective library instructors will be those who integrate active learning methods into their practice. Experience does not equal effectiveness.
Core competencies and performance management in Canadian public libraries
Authors: Chan Donna C.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to present the performance management process and the core competency frameworks of six Canadian public libraries. The core competencies that characterize the qualities for superior performance of library staff are described, as well as the way in which competencies are used throughout the performance management process and other related human resource functions.

Design/methodology/approach

A survey of 59 public libraries serving populations greater than 50,000 was undertaken. A total of six libraries reported using core competency frameworks for performance management purposes. Managers responsible for human resource functions were interviewed about the process of developing the competencies and the ways in which the competencies are used in their library systems.

Findings

The core competencies identified by the six public libraries are communication skills, interpersonal skills, customer service, analytical skills, accountability, adaptability, technological competence, planning and organizing skills, knowledge of the organization, creativity/innovation and leadership. Employees are evaluated against the core competencies in the performance appraisal process. Unsatisfactory performance in any competency requires an action plan to improve the necessary knowledge and skills.

Research limitations/implications

The number of libraries which have implemented core competencies for performance management is very limited. Future research should examine whether competency‐based performance management has achieved the aim of improving performance.

Practical implications

The paper provides a useful overview of the concept of performance management and summarizes the strengths and weaknesses of competency‐based performance management.

Originality/value

The paper presents an overview of competency‐based performance management as implemented in six Canadian public libraries. The core competencies that characterize the qualities required for superior performance of library staff are described.
Negotiating extra effort through contingent rewards
Authors: Densten Iain L.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the validity of contingent reward and its relationship to extra effort and to further advance understanding of the leader/follower performance reward relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

The concept of contingent reward has largely remained unchanged since 1985. Consequently, the items of contingent reward were examined in terms of their content validity that was guided by transactional leadership theory, re‐formulated path‐goal theory of leadership, and negotiation theory. Three new contingent reward factors were identified (i.e. framing, clarifying, and rewarding). These were examined using one‐factor congeneric measurement models. Valid factors were identified using a high‐order confirmatory factor analysis to further confirm the structural validity of the three new factors of contingent reward. Finally, structural equation models were calculated to examine the relationships among contingent reward factors and extra effort.

Findings

Three distinct factors of contingent reward were identified and their relationships with extra effort was consistent with the integrative negotiation strategies where each factor formed part of a negotiation process. Contingent reward (framing) initiates the negotiation process and directly loads on contingent reward (rewarding and clarifying); contingent reward (framing) did not directly load on to extra effort. Contingent reward (rewarding) supports the negotiation process by loading directly on contingent reward (clarifying). The negotiation process is completed with contingent reward (clarifying) directly loading on extra effort. These three contingent reward factors form a simple negotiation process that highlights several important aspect of the leader/follower reward performance relationship.

Research limitations/implications

This study uses a cross‐sectional design that means that its findings may not be generalisable to other populations. However, the findings of this study should encourage researchers to appreciate that common leadership behaviour, like contingent reward, may have more complex interrelationships with outcome factors such as extra effort than previously expected.

Practical implications

Leaders should view their use of contingent reward behaviours in terms of a process rather than simply exhibiting a single clarifying contingent reward type behaviour. In other words, leaders need to establish the boundaries (i.e. framing), acknowledge involvement (i.e. rewarding), and then elucidate mutual outcomes (i.e. clarifying). This process should enable leaders to negotiate greater flexibilities and create more momentum within their leader/follower performance reward relationships.

Originality/value

This paper challenges the foundation ideas and empirical pedigree of contingent reward and incorporates advances in theories such as the reformulated path‐goal theory and interpret the behaviours in a broader multi‐disciplinary context, i.e. integrative negotiation strategies.
CLAWAR highlights research progress on climbing and walking robots
Authors: Kochan Anna
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Aims to review the Clawar 2005 conference on climbing and walking robots.

Design/methodology/approach

Selects key papers from the conference and presents a brief outline of the research undertaken and the conclusions reached.

Findings

Speakers told of the latest developments in humanoid robots; space applications; personal assistance robots; and NDT, security and surveillance. Sessions also covered innovations in sensing and sensor fusion; climbing, navigation and path planning, gait generation, manipulation; hopping and legged robots; flexible manipulators; and control.

Originality/value

Outlines trends in the development of climbing and walking robots.
Robot show features faster and cheaper models, free drinks and physical therapy
Authors: Bloss Richard
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To report on new products and applications at the 2005 International Robots and Vision Show, Chicago, USA.

Design/methodology/approach

A brief description of some of the highlights of the exhibition.

Findings

Robots are becoming faster and cheaper.

Originality/value

The article is of value to those interested in developments in robotics and machine vision.
An application of Taguchi method of experimental design for new product design and development process
Authors: Antony Jiju , Perry Daniel , Wang Chengbo , Kumar Maneesh
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to illustrate an application of Taguchi method of experimental design (TMED) for the development of a new ignition coil for an automotive vehicle.

Design/methodology/approach

The application of TMED for optimisation of manufacturing processes has been widely published in the existing literature. However, the applications of TMED in the design and development of new products are not yet widely reported. This case study presents the results of a designed experiment which utilises a 16‐trial experiment to study 14 design parameters and one interaction. The case study strictly follows a systematic and disciplined methodology outlined in the paper.

Findings

The optimal settings of the critical design parameters are determined. The optimal settings have resulted in increased customer satisfaction, improved market share and low defect rate in the hands of customers.

Research limitations/implications

Although the optimal levels are determined from one large experiment, it was unable to determine the true optimal values of each design parameter.

Practical implications

Manufacturers may use TMED to optimise processes (either design or manufacturing) without expensive and time‐consuming experimentation. This case study demonstrates the true power of a well planned and designed experiment over the traditional varying one‐factor‐at‐a‐time approach to experimentation which is rather unreliable, not cost‐effective and may lead to false optimal conditions.

Originality/value

The paper provides an excellent resource for those people who are involved in the design optimisation of a new product.
Computer vision and fuzzy rules applied to an industrial desktop robot
Authors: Santos Cristina
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Desktop robots are suitable for production line systems in industrial applications. Despite their capabilities to meet diverse requirements, they have to be programmed off‐line using waypoints and path information. Misalignments in the workspace location during loading cause injuries in the workpiece and tool. Further, in flexible industrial production, machinery must adapt to changing product demands, both to the simultaneous production of different types of workpieces and to product styles with short life cycles. In this paper, visual data processing concepts on the basis of fuzzy logic are applied to enable an industrial desktop robot to raise its flexibility and address these problems that limit the production rate of small industries.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper, a desktop robot performing dispensing tasks is equipped with a computer vision system. Visual information is used to autonomously change previously off‐line stored robot programs for known workpieces or to call worker's attention for unknown/misclassified workpieces. A fuzzy inference classifier based on a fuzzy grammar, is used to describe/identify workpieces. Fuzzy rules are automatically generated from features extracted from the workpiece under analysis.

Findings

Different types of workpieces were tested and a good rate performance, higher than 90 per cent, was achieved. The obtained results illustrate both the flexibility and robustness of the proposed solution as well as its capabilities for good classification of workpieces.

Practical implications

The overall system is being implemented in an industrial environment.

Originality/value

The paper reports a piece of solid work which indicates clearly that the work is suitable for industrial utilization.
Discharge demand analysis on a drainage stack for residential buildings
Authors: Wong L.T. , Mui K.W.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To determine the probable drainage load for sizing a stack serving a number of domestic washrooms in high‐rise buildings, with various occupant loads served by an appliance and simultaneous use of appliances in a domestic washroom taken into account.

Design/methodology/approach

With the reported probable demand patterns of domestic appliances from laboratory testing results, on‐site measurements and survey studies, the probable maximum discharge flow rates from a number of domestic washrooms in a stack are estimated with Monte‐Carlo simulations.

Findings

The results demonstrated that the occupant loads and the usage patterns of an appliance had significant effects on the sizing of a drainage stack. It was reported that a reduction of 16 per cent in the design discharge flow rate for a washroom, at an occupant load of 4.2 persons per apartment, could be achieved with no more than one appliance discharging at a time. Influence of the occupant load served by an appliance on the probable maximum drainage demand at the stack was addressed. The results also showed a reduction of the predicted discharge flow rate at the stack serving a number of typical domestic washrooms from −26 to +21 per cent as compared with those predicted by the nominal occupant load in current practice.

Research limitations/implications

The model parameters were determined from surveys for some high‐rise residential buildings in Hong Kong and from some laboratory testing results for typical domestic sanitary appliances. The model therefore may require adaptation for use in other countries.

Practical implications

A useful source of information in determining the stack size serving a number of domestic washrooms for those involved in building design and management related to drainage systems of residential buildings.

Originality/value

This paper proposes mathematical expressions in sizing a drainage stack serving a number of domestic washrooms in high‐rise buildings, where drainage demands are dependent on the building occupant loads at certain discharge patterns of appliances in a domestic washroom.
Optimized RFV analysis
Authors: Juarez Alencar Antonio , Martins Ribeiro Eduardo , Leite Ferreira Armando , Assis Schmitz Eber , Lima Priscila M.V. , Silva Pereira Manso Fernando
Published: July 2006

Purpose

In the classic recency‐frequency‐monetary value (RFV or RFM) approach to market segmentation, customers are grouped together into an arbitrary number of segments according to data on their most recent day of purchase (R), the number of buying orders placed (F) and the total monetary value of their purchases (V). The purpose of this paper is to show how to select the order in which the RFV dimensions are applied to data and choose the number of segments and the time frame used in such a way as to maximize the results of direct marketing campaigns.

Design/methodology/approach

A “genetically” optimized RFV model is built from data collected from a real world direct marketing campaign. The results produced when it is used are compared with the results yielded without the use of any forecasting method at all and with the support of a widely used basic RFV model.

Findings

Not only does the new model provide better results, but it is also easy to build and allows for the introduction of new dimensions that may improve its performance even further.

Practical implications

The new model improves the cost‐effectiveness of direct marketing campaigns by permitting more accurate identification of a company's most valuable customers and improving the quality of communication with its customers. It can thereby help them to become more competitive and profitable. This has clear implications for the gathering of marketing intelligence and planning of marketing strategies.

Originality/value

Although genetic algorithms have been shown to be powerful tools for problem solving, their use in marketing has been little reported. This work is a step towards bridging that gap. The genetically optimized RFV model is a new contribution to direct and relationship marketing, generating a positive qualitative and quantitative impact on the way companies relate to their customers.
The influence of family and friends on teenage smoking in Greece: some preliminary findings
Authors: Strong Carolyn A. , Eftychia Sidira
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the influence of family and friends on teenage smoking behaviour in Greece, as distinct from tobacco marketing, against the background of relevant literature and previous studies elsewhere.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 100 Greeks between the ages of 16 and 19 were interviewed in coffee shops and fast‐food restaurants, using a questionnaire combining structured questions with opportunities for free discussion during completion. Respondent anonymity was preserved.

Findings

The paper is in keeping with intentionally exploratory research objectives. Selected findings are reported and discussed, without full tabulation of all results. With that proviso, the paper concludes that smoking among Greek teenagers is strongly influenced by family and friends: roughly one in ten were offered a cigarette by a relative; two‐thirds came from families containing at least some smokers, with only two with no friends who smoked. Evidence is stronger among smokers in the sample than non‐smokers. A tentative conclusion, therefore, is that experimentation and continuation is an outcome of consumer socialization.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was relatively small and stated intent exploratory. A key feature is the social context in which behaviour was investigated. Further research is needed, to improve the rigour of conclusions, which are nonetheless interestingly indicative.

Practical implications

The paper provides potentially useful insights and directions of further enquiry for marketing planners, advertising strategists, brand managers, market researchers, social marketers and health campaigners, and for academics who work with them.

Originality/value

The paper examines a widely investigated phenomenon in a social environment distinctively different from the European norm, in the smoking context.
The effect of automated service quality on Australian banks' financial performance and the mediating role of customer satisfaction
Authors: Al‐Hawari Mohammed , Ward Tony
Published: July 2006

Purpose

First, to investigate the relationship between customer perception of service quality and bank financial performance in the new context of the automated banking environment in Australia. Second, to test for the mediating role of customer satisfaction in that relationship.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviews a very large literature and numerous previous empirical investigations of service quality. Defines automated service quality. Proposes a mediated model linking service quality to banks' financial performance through customer satisfaction in the context of the automated retail banking, and tests it by structural equation modelling (Amos 5).

Findings

Customer satisfaction is confirmed as a mediator in the relationship between automated service quality and financial performance.

Research limitations/implications

Further research is indicated, to validate the relevance of the findings across different countries.

Practical implications

The proposed model can guide the formulation of marketing strategies, relating to the delivery of automated services, which have the potential to achieve high levels of customer satisfaction and financial performance.

Originality/value

Contributes to the current body of knowledge by improving understanding of the main issues relating to the effect of service quality on bank profitability, and the mediating role of customer satisfaction in this new banking context.
Weapons of mass instruction? The rhetoric and reality of online learning
Authors: Ennew Christine T. , Fernandez‐Young Anita
Published: July 2006

Purpose

Explores the development of online learning in UK higher education as a case study to illustrate the difficulties created by an over‐reliance on technology push and a failure to understand and respond to market needs.

Design/methodology/approach

Draws on a variety of published secondary sources and the authors' own experience of working with the UK e‐University (UKeU).

Findings

Argues that the development of online learning as a substitute for more traditional forms of delivery has been limited. For both e‐learning in general and for the UKeU in particular, the comparatively limited adoption of online learning beyond the campus‐based model is explained by failure to understand the market and a focus on what is technologically possible rather than what customers want.

Research limitations/implications

Presents a single case study developed from secondary sources and personal experience.

Practical implications

Models of online learning that exclude any face‐to‐face contact may have limited market opportunities, but blended models offer considerable potential both on and off campus. Investments and development costs of online learning are such that reusability or recycling of learning material has to be built into the production process if the benefits are to be fully realised.

Originality/value

Previous studies of e‐learning in the UK have not been driven by a marketing perspective. This study therefore delivers valuable intelligence for marketing educators considering their own options for investing in online learning development. In general, it provides further evidence of the importance of using market intelligence to inform the development and launch of product and service innovations.
Comparative innovative business strategies of major players in cosmetic industry
Authors: Kumar Sameer , Massie Cindy , Dumonceaux Michelle D.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The cosmetic industry is a very lucrative, innovative, and fast paced industry where product innovation is the key to success. The purpose of this paper is to present a detailed analytical (qualitative) study of cosmetic industry in the global marketplace with a focus on the four market leaders in this industry relative to their business and innovation strategies.

Design/methodology/approach

Business analyses include Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats (SWOT), Porter's value chain and five forces, and financial applied to the four industry leaders.

Findings

Each of these cosmetic companies is unique. They each offer something different to the industry; selling method, marketing strategy, product line, and distribution channel.

Practical implications

The industry trends indicate that the future of cosmetics may move towards more joint ventures between drug companies, cosmetic companies and nutritional/food companies as cosmetic companies look for new ways to be innovative.

Originality/value

The research provides an in‐depth business analyses of cosmetic industry using SWOT, Porter's value chain and five forces and financial with results obtained that are generalizable to the entire cosmetic industry. Projections on the future of cosmetic industry are also presented.
The changing pattern of commercial lease terms
Authors: Hamilton Moira , Cheng Lim Lay , McCluskey William
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper aims to contribute to the theory, practice and development trends in relation to commercial property leases.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper utilises three key methodological approaches to the research, namely, case studies, desktop literature review and questionnaire survey analysis. This approach enables the in‐depth analysis of both primary and secondary data in relation to the wider commercial property leasing market.

Findings

The main findings from an analysis of the case study cities demonstrate clearly that office tenants are requiring shorter lease terms, more tenant break options and rent reviews to market value.

Research limitations/implications

The paper relates to the development of commercial property leases. While the research inferences are drawn from four major cities they would nonetheless represent a similar pattern from across the UK.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper should be of practical benefit to those involved in the drafting of commercial leases and in particular the management and leasing of commercial property.

Originality/value

This paper presents the results of original empirical research utilising data drawn from several authoritative sources. The value of the work lies in the lease patterns that have been discovered through the case studies analysis.
Unbiased estimators for mean time to failure and percentiles in a Weibull regression model
Authors: Ho L.L. , Silva A.F.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To present the bootstrap procedure to correct biases in maximum likelihood estimator of mean time to failure (MTTF) and percentiles in a Weibull regression model.

Design/methodology/approach

A reliability model is described by a Weibull regression model with parameters being estimated by maximum likelihood method and they will be used estimate other quantities of interest as MTTF or percentiles. When a small sample is employed it is known that the estimates of these quantities are biased. A simulation study varying sample size, censored mechanisms, allocation mechanisms and levels of censored data are designed to quantify these biases.

Findings

The bootstrap procedure corrects the biased maximum likelihood estimates of MTTF and percentiles.

Practical implications

A minor sample may be required if the bootstrap procedure is required to produce estimator of the quantities as MTTF and percentiles.

Originality/value

The employment of bootstrap procedure to quantify the biases since analytical expression of the biases are very difficult to calculate. And the minor samples are needed to obtain unbiased estimates for bootstrap corrected estimator.
Deciding on promotions and redundancies
Authors: Furnham Adrian , Petrides K.V.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To examine how people weigh information when making people decisions, specifically promotion or redundancy, at work.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 183 working adults completed two questionnaires that required them to rate 16 vignettes describing hypothetical people. They were devised to give combinations of the following: two gender (male/female), two levels of ability (average/high), two levels of work experience (less than five years/ more than 15 years) and two levels of motivation (average/high). The first questionnaire required participants to rate the 16 people for possible promotion and the second for possible redundancy

Findings

Participants favoured males over females; the more over the less experienced; the more over the less able/intelligence and the more over the less motivated for promotion and to be retained rather than made redundant. Employee motivation was seen to be the most important individual difference variable in the decision making.

Practical implications

Managers have to make many people decisions such as who to promote. They usually have to balance and weigh different pieces of information about people regarding that decision. This study shows that three factors were rated as particularly important namely experience, intelligence and motivation.

Originality/value

This study appears to be the first to examine decision making through this traditional vignette methodology. While it has drawbacks it also has advantages to investigate how people weigh information about others when trying to make important people decisions.
Internal control under Sarbanes‐Oxley: a critical examination
Authors: Tackett James A. , Wolf Fran , Claypool Gregory A.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The financial reporting requirements for publicly traded companies have undergone a significant transformation due to the passage of the Sarbanes‐Oxley Act (SOX). Companies are now required to report on the operating effectiveness of their internal controls over financial reporting. Additionally, the independent auditor is required to assess and report on the effectiveness of their client's internal controls, and they must attest to management's internal control assessment. The purpose of this paper is to examine the costs and benefits associated with Section 404 of the SOX of 2002.

Design/methodology/approach

Qualitative analysis and deductive reasoning are used to evaluate the net benefits of Section 404 to the securities markets.

Findings

Qualitative analysis demonstrates that the new internal control reporting requirements have negative net benefits to the securities markets because of excessive cost and ambiguous interpretation. Elimination of formal internal control reporting is recommended.

Originality/value

This paper demonstrates that major revisions of Section 404 of the SOX are desirable for optimal allocation of resources related to financial reporting.
ARIMA model and forecasting with three types of pulse prices in Bangladesh: a case study
Authors: Hossain Zakir , Abdus Samad Quazi , Ali Zulficar
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to generate three types of forecasts, namely, historical, ex‐post and ex‐ante, using the world famous Box‐Jenkins time series models for motor, mash and mung prices in Bangladesh.

Design/methodology/approach

The models on the basis of which these forecasts have been computed were selected by six important information criteria such as Akaike's Information Criterion (AIC), Schwarz's Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC), Theil's R2, Theil's R2, SE(σ) and Mean Absolute Percent Errors (MAPEs). In order to examine the forecasting performance of the selected models, three types of forecast errors were estimated, i.e. root mean square percent errors (RMSPEs), mean percent forecast errors (MPFEs) and Theil's inequality coefficients (TICs).

Findings

The estimates suggest that in most cases the forecasting performances of the models in question are quite satisfactory.

Originality/value

The models developed in this paper can be used for policy purposes as far as price forecasts of the commodities are concerned.
Using analysts’ earnings forecasts for country/industry‐based asset allocation
Authors: Forbes William , Huijgen Carel
Published: July 2006

Purpose

This paper seeks to investigate the usefulness of analysts’ earnings forecast revisions in the allocation of funds to different industries and countries. In particular, it asks whether a post analyst revision announcement drift in prices can be exploited to guide an asset allocation strategy based on industry, or country, selection.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodolgy is to use monthly consensus I/B/E/S – First Call analysts’ earnings forecasts for companies listed on the main European stock markets over the period January 1987 to December 2001.

Findings

It is found that a significant post revision announcement effect for individual companies. However, the abnormal returns evaporate away as the research moves from an individual company level to an industry or country level. The paper provides two kinds of evidence which seem to cast doubt on the analysts’ ability to fully incorporate industry and country specific information into their forecasts: returns are driven more by common components than earnings forecast revisions, and company specific news reflected by the revision signal dominates industry or country news.

Originality/value

Locates the origin of stock price momentum strategies in news about earnings reflected in analysts’ forecasts revisions.
Optimal asset management for pension funds
Authors: Menoncin Francesco , Scaillet Olivier
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the asset allocation problem for a pension fund which maximizes the expected present value of its wealth augmented by the prospective mathematical reserve at the death time of a representative member.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper applies the stochastic optimization technique in continuous time. In order to present an explicit solution it considers the case of both deterministic interest rate and market price of risk.

Findings

The paper demonstrates that the optimal portfolio is always less risky than the Merton's (1969‐1971) one. In particular, the asset allocation is less and less risky until the pension date while, after retirement of the fund's representative member, it becomes riskier and riskier.

Practical implications

The paper shows the best way for managing a pension fund portfolio during both the accumulation and the decumulation phases.

Originality/value

The paper fills a gap in the optimal portfolio literature about the joint analysis of both the actuarial and the financial framework. In particular, it shows that the actuarial part strongly affects the behaviour of the optimal asset allocation.
Performance evaluation considering the coskewness
Authors: Moreno David
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The paper aims to examine the performance of Spanish mutual funds between 1999 and 2003.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodolgy uses the stochastic discount factor (SDF) framework across a variety of models developed in the recent asset pricing literature. This approach is a fairly recent innovation in the evaluation of investment performance.

Findings

The present work complements the research of Farnworth et al. and Fletcher and Forbes, adding a new issue to the SDF, the third co‐moment of asset returns. Recent asset pricing studies show the relevance of the component of an asset's skewness related to the market portfolio's skewness, the coskewness, and how it helps to explain the time‐variation of ex‐ante market risk premiums. It is found that the effects of adding coskewness to evaluate the performance is significant even when factors based on size, book‐to‐market and momentum are included.

Practical implications

The omission of a coskewness factor may lead to erroneous evaluations of a fund's performance, and therefore, issues such as the persistence of performance should be revised.

Originality/value

This paper explores, for the first time, the effects of incorporating a coskewness factor in the analysis of investment performance, both in an unconditional and a conditional framework using SDF models.
Suppliers' willingness to end unprofitable customer relationships
Authors: Helm Sabrina , Rolfes Ludger , Günter Bernd
Published: July 2006

Purpose – The purpose of this article is to investigate the supplier's view on supplier‐initiated relationship dissolution due to lack of customer profitability. Design/methodology/approach – The research is focused on inter‐organisational buyer‐seller relationships. An exploratory study in the German mechanical engineering industry was conducted to provide insights into the usage of customer valuation techniques and the preponderance of unprofitable customer relationships, and to identify various ways of managing unprofitable customer relationships by means of cluster analysis. Findings – The study shows that many companies in the industry lack knowledge and use of customer valuation techniques. Three clusters of supplying firms are identified that differ in their willingness to end unprofitable customer relationships. Research limitations/implications – Provides an exploratory study into a neglected aspect of relationship marketing characterised by a low response rate. The sample contained companies from one major German industry, limiting the applicability of its findings. The main implications are that unprofitable customer relationships are a common feature of industrial markets, which merits further investigation. Respondents were shown to have a range of different views and approaches to such relationships. Research on customer valuation needs to focus on the implementation barriers of valuation methods. Practical implications – Study results stress the importance of developing and implementing customer valuation methods, the relevance of unprofitable relationships, and suppliers' decision making concerning such precarious relationships. It is a useful source of information and impartial advice for managers involved with customer management. Originality/value – The paper leads to a more thorough understanding of relationship marketing and provides empirical data on a neglected field of marketing research, as prior work did not consider the supplier's view on dissolution management in detail.
Training under fire
Authors: AlMadhoun Mohammed
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The main objective of this paper is to discuss the relationship between obstacles and weaknesses facing the development of MTPs and SMEs. In recent years many management training programmes (MTPs) of an off‐the‐job nature have been established in Palestine, after the peace agreement, in order to find a solution for apparent lack of managerial strength, especially amongst SMEs.

Design/methodology/approach

To demonstrate the effects of obstacles on SMEs, different but relevant sets of variables were employed. The logistic regression model was used to determine and analyse the effects of the independent variables on the dependent variables.

Findings

To a large degree the variables established the validity of the research hypothesis that “there is a relation between some obstacles and weaknesses and SMEs' development”. However, the primary data were generated through a survey of SME managers who have participated in management development training programmes in Palestine. It can be concluded quite clearly that generally there is a relationship between the acquisition of some obstacles and weaknesses and the development of SMEs. Moreover, managerial factors are prime determinants of the development, failure or survival of SMEs. Logistic regression shows that the relation between the development of SMEs and obstacles and weaknesses is significantly positive. Previous findings and research results can be used to enhance the strategic planning and hence the performance of small businesses. However, there is much to be done in terms of managerial development for greater efficiency.

Originality/value

Provides trainers with a means of evaluating and assessing training and thereby improving the quality of training while it is in progress via measurement of the individual needs of managers.
HIV/AIDS: a threat to the viability of the societies it attacks
Authors: Villarreal Marcela
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To provide a new understanding of the AIDS epidemic and its implications in order to improve the responses from governments and the development community.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper briefly describes the AIDS epidemic as it relates to development and to rural development in particular, and analyses these interactions from a systems perspective, inspired by the viable systems model approach.

Findings

The paper concludes that HIV/AIDS poses a clear threat to the viability of the societies where the prevalence rates exceed a certain threshold (determined by agro‐ecological and other contextual and organisational characteristics). It shows that in order to be effective, the AIDS epidemic needs a systemic response, involving all development sectors and that responses that involve only the health sector cannot address the systemic nature of the damage the epidemic creates, once the prevalence rates go beyond the said threshold.

Practical implications

An understanding that the epidemic may render societies non viable may move decision makers more decisively to action and an understanding of the systemic nature of the response needed may prompt an adequate organisation of this action.

Originality/value

The paper analyses the AIDS epidemic in an innovative way, contributing to the understanding of its dynamics and implications as well as to the means of addressing them. The paper is useful for policy makers, government officials and development planners to be aware of these and to take them into consideration in the design/implementation of policies, programmes and projects. It should also be of value to academics who wish to deepen their understanding of the epidemic.
Contemporary systems and cybernetics
Authors: Rudall Brian H.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce innovative systems that are currently being developed worldwide. They include reviews of Artificial life machines; Poker‐playing “bots”; Advanced systems to harness a human's electrical field; “smart beer mat”; computer vision surveillance system; robotic systems for gastric surgery; future combat systems.

Design/methodology/approach

General review and survey of selected research and development topics.

Findings

Illustrates the multi‐and trans‐disciplinary nature of cybernetics and systems. Aims to further research and development activity.

Practical implications

The choice of reviews provides an awareness of the current trends in these areas of endeavour but are necessarily selective.

Orginality/va1ue

The reviews are selected from a global database and give a studied assessment of current research and development initiatives.
A study of the effects of pigments and fillers on the properties of anticorrosive paints
Authors: Kalendova A. , Veselý D. , Kalenda P.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To investigate the properties of coatings containing various types of fillers from the point of view of their physical‐mechanical properties and anticorrosive properties.

Design/methodology/approach

Research used fillers of different types varying in morphology and/or chemical composition; these were then compared with selected pigments and zinc phosphate, an anticorrosive pigment. The following parameters were observed for all of the fillers and pigments: oil absorption, CPVC value, density, extract pH, specific surface, particle size, and water‐soluble substances. The morphology of particles was observed by means of an electron‐scanning microscope. The coatings of these fillers and pigments were formulated on an epoxy resin binder basis cured with a polyamine hardener. The coatings prepared were subjected to the measurement of physical‐mechanical properties such as hardness and deepening resistance, flex resistance, adhesion to steel, and the gloss of the coatings. The coatings containing the fillers and pigments studied underwent corrosion tests in a condenser chamber and in a salt‐spray cabinet.

Findings

The results obtained through the tests allowed the selection of the optimum filler for an epoxy coating with barrier anticorrosive properties. As per respective findings, some fillers in these coatings of significant thickness can be comparable to their zinc phosphate counterparts.

Research limitations/implications

The anticorrosive properties of the coatings studied can also be tested in paints by means of atmospheric exposure, for instance, with the aid of a Florida test.

Practical implications

The findings are helpful towards applications in the formulations of anticorrosive coatings of significant thickness that offer an effective barrier mechanism.

Originality/value

The research presents the results of the properties of a whole range of industrially employed fillers and pigments contained in paints. Based on this study, the formulation of steel protecting coatings can be optimised.
A study of rosemary oil as a green corrosion inhibitor for steel in 2 M H3PO4
Authors: Bendahou M. , Benabdellah M. , Hammouti B.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of natural rosemary oil as non toxic inhibitor on the corrosion of steel in H3PO4 media at various temperatures.

Design/methodology/approach

The oil was hydro‐distilled. The oil was used as inhibitor in various corrosion tests. Gravimetric and electrochemical techniques were used to characterise the corrosion mechanism.

Findings

Chromatographic analysis by GC showed that the oil was rich in 1,8‐cineole. The oil was a good inhibitor. But, its efficiency decreased with temperature.

Research limitations/implications

The inhibition efficiency increased with the concentration of the natural oil to attain 73 per cent at 10 g/l. Good agreement between the various methods explored was observed. Polarisation measurements showed that rosemary oil acted essentially as a cathodic inhibitor.

Practical implications

The efficiency of the oil increased with the concentration but decreased with the rise of temperature in the 298‐348 K range. The natural oil could thus be used in chemical cleaning and pickling processes.

Originality/value

The originality of this work is the finding of a safe and cheap inhibitor from natural plants.
LibData to LibCMS
Authors: Bramscher Paul F. , Butler John T.
Published: July 2006

Purpose

The University of Minnesota Libraries have developed and implemented LibCMS, an open architecture content management system (CMS) that combines with the previously‐built LibData system to meet the web page publishing and site management needs of a large research library. The purpose of this paper is to present overall observations about CMSs and their implementation, and details the requirements and design of LibCMS.

Design/methodology/approach

The system's development followed an evolutionary path moving from a modest data repository, to a large system with a three‐tiered web page authoring environment, and now to a CMS with site‐level management capability. This work leaned on abstract tree structures to manage navigational hierarchy both within and between pages. Methods were developed to represent tree architecture in an RDBMS while economizing traversal and maintenance of nodes.

Findings

Developing the CMS locally ensured that design followed the requirements of a large academic library environment and its service/business model. This also allowed the implementation to be an organic extension of existing authoring tools in the environment rather than the potentially disruptive incorporation of a new system.

Research limitations/implications

Architectural problems encountered here have traditionally been treated outside of library and information science. The challenge both in implementation and in research has been to bridge gaps between computer science and applied technologies in libraries.

Practical implications

Implementations of open source, library‐oriented CMSs could, over time, open the door to community software development and distribution efforts.

Originality/value

This paper uniquely details the rationale and design of a library‐oriented, open architecture CMS, built to interoperate with a large, content repository.
Building a collection development CMS on a shoe‐string
Authors: Beach Regina , Dial Miqueas
Published: July 2006

Purpose

To discuss why a content management system (CMS) for collection development is necessary in a distance education environment, restructuring technical services in preparation for a CMS implementation, and the actual building of a prototype.

Design/methodology/approach

The article outlines the planning and processes necessary in designing and building a CMS from scratch using existing resources and putting them to effective use.

Findings

While development and completion of the CMS database was accomplished in a timely fashion, implementation in the library has been slow because of negotiating security issues.

Practical implications

A resource for any academic library considering developing their own CMS in house.

Originality/value

Content management systems are becoming common at large universities with resources to obtain the software “out of the box” and with full time computer support staffs implement them. However, content management systems are much less common in the small university environment. Creating one for managing library collection development is unique.