bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation and characterisation of the condition of individual components of cathodic protection systems
Authors: Zakowski Krzysztof , Darowicki Kazimierz
Published: July 2004

Results of investigations on a working cathodic protection installation of two underground LPG tanks are presented. The efficiency of anodes and buried reference electrodes were evaluated using electrochemical impedance measurements. On the basis of the impedance spectra obtained it can be shown how one of the anodes attached to the long anode line works inefficiently. In addition, the potential distribution map for the protected tanks is presented. On the basis of this information, an electric connection was revealed from the tanks to the neighbouring reinforced concrete structures, this being inconsistent with the technical guidelines for the cathodic protection installation. The inspection performed on the installation yielded some recommendations concerning the operational parameters and the identification and replacement of defective components.
A study of localised corrosion within occluded cells on a simulated cast iron artefact in chloride solution
Authors: Weizhen Ouyang , Chunchun Xu , Lijie Yue , Feng Wang
Published: July 2004

The chemical behaviour within the occluded cell of simulated cast iron artefact in 3.5 percent NaCl solution has been investigated by means of a simulated occluded cell. It was observed that the pH value and the amount of Cl− migration in the occluded cell were related to the quantity of passing electric current. Electrochemical techniques were capable of providing information on the behaviour of the cast iron in a simulated occluded cell at various time intervals. The results of potentiodynamic polarisation and impedance measurements indicated that corrosion potentials became more negative and the cast iron was corroded more seriously. SEM micrographs clearly revealed the morphologies of specimens after simulated occluded cell galvanostatic tests for different time intervals at 1 mA/cm2 anodic current density. An auto‐catalysing process was responsible for the enrichment of chloride ions in occluded cell which was confirmed by Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (EDS).
Corrosion inhibitory effects of a new synthetic symmetrical Schiff‐base on carbon steel in acid media
Authors: Dadgarnezhad Athareh , Sheikhshoaie Iran , Baghaei Fatemeh
Published: July 2004

In this investigation, the inhibitory effect of a new synthesised tetra‐dentate Schiff‐base, bis‐(2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthaldehyde) 1,6‐hexadiamine (A1), on the corrosion of carbon steel in 1 M HCl and 0.5 M H2SO4media solutions was studied using various techniques including electrochemical impedance spectroscopy polarisation curves and weight loss. The new compound was shown to be a very good inhibitor and had better behaviour in 1 M HCl than was the case in 0.5 M H2SO4. Potentiodynamic polarisation tests showed that this inhibitor had both cathodic and anodic action. Changes in Tafel and impedance parameters (Icorr,RctandCdl) indicated that the absorbed protective film grows with increasing exposure time and concentration of inhibitor. The maximum inhibition efficiency was approximately 97 per cent and 95 per cent at 100 ppm (A1) in 1 M HCl and 0.5 M H2SO4. The adsorption of this inhibitor on a carbon steel surface in both acidic media followed Langmuir adsorption isotherm behaviour.
The inhibition effects of a new heterocyclic bisquaternary ammonium salt in simulated oilfield water
Authors: Jin‐ying Huang , Jia‐shen Zheng , Chao‐yang Fu , Jun‐e Qu , Jian‐guo Liu
Published: July 2004

A kind of novel heterocyclic bisquaternary ammonium salt (MBQA) was successfully synthesised with metronidazole as matrix and dichloroethyl ether as the link agent. Weight loss measurement, potentiodynamic polarisation curves, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy were used to evaluate the corrosion inhibiting performance of MBQA in simulated oilfield water. Experimental data revealed that MBQA acted as an inhibitor in the acidic environment and, furthermore, the compound was a mixed‐type inhibitor. It was found that inhibition efficiency increased with an increase in MBQA concentration at different temperatures. The process of inhibition was attributed to the formation of an adsorbed film on the metal surface, which protected the metal against corrosive agents.
Inhibitive effect of calcium gluconate and sodium molybdate on carbon steel
Authors: Shibli S.M.A. , Anitha Kumary V.
Published: July 2004

There is an increasing demand for eco‐friendly inhibitors for use in cooling water systems. Both calcium gluconates and molybdate are eco‐friendly, non‐toxic chemicals. The corrosion inhibition of calcium gluconate and sodium molybdate on carbon steel in neutral aqueous media was evaluated by means of weight loss, electrochemical polarisation and impedance techniques. A synergistic effect was observed when these two eco‐friendly non‐toxic inhibitors were used in protecting carbon steel. A non‐linear relationship existed between the concentrations of the two inhibitors showing a synergistic effect.
Benzimidazole‐2‐tione and benzoxazole‐2‐tione derivatives as corrosion inhibitors for aluminium in hydrochloric acid
Authors: Bereket G. , Pınarbaşı A. , Öğretir C.
Published: July 2004

The effect of benzimidazole‐2‐tione and benzoxazole‐2‐tione derivatives on the corrosion of aluminium in 0.1 M HCl has been investigated by a potentiostatic polarisation technique. Inhibition efficiencies were found to follow the order: benzimidazole‐2‐tione > 5‐methyl benzimidazole‐2‐tione > 5‐chloro benzimidazole‐2‐tione, while that of benzoxazole‐2‐tione derivatives were found to follow the order: 5‐methyl benzoxazole‐2‐tione > benzoxazole‐2‐tione > 5‐chloro benzoxazole‐2‐tione > 5‐nitro benzoxazole‐2‐tione. The inhibitive action of these heterocyclic compounds was mainly due to adsorption on the metal surfaces, which show parallelism with the calculated total negative charge of each of the molecules. Thermodynamic parameters, such as values of free energies of adsorption ΔGads and values of equilibrium constants Kads, were determined. Activation energies Ea, activation enthalpies ΔH* and activation entropies ΔS* were determined from the corrosion currents measured at different temperatures.
Strategy competence: a successful approach to international market entry
Authors: Pehrsson Anders
Published: July 2004

This article presents a study of the link between strategy competence and performance in the context of international market entry. The concept of strategy competence encompasses international market entry and business relatedness. It is assumed that efforts of a firm to establish a business in a market where the firm encounters limited entry barriers, and where the local business belongs to the corporate core, lead to high performance in the local business. The empirical findings are based on a study of 173 Swedish ventures in Germany and indicate that limited customer access problems lead to high performance. At the same time, high relatedness between the core business and the local business, in terms of similar requirements for management skills and similar brand recognition, leads to high performance of the local business. In light of the findings, management would be well advised to leverage key management skills such as brand management from the core to the local business and to continuously evaluate ways to achieve customer access.
The effect of downsizing strategy and reorientation strategy on a learning orientation
Authors: Farrell Mark , Mavondo Felix T.
Published: July 2004

This paper integrates literature from downsizing and organisational learning. A conceptual framework is developed which argues that downsizing (adaptive or single loop learning) and reorientation (double loop or generative learning) will have a negative and positive effect respectively, on the three elements of a learning orientation: commitment to learning; shared vision); open‐mindedness. Data were collected from the top 2,000 manufacturers in Australia, and analysed using a structural equation modelling approach. Results confirm the study hypotheses. Implications for management are discussed, along with suggestions for further research.
Intuition, women managers and gendered stereotypes
Authors: Hayes John , Allinson Christopher W. , Armstrong Steven J.
Published: July 2004

Gender‐centred perspectives of women managers and women in general characterise them as being more intuitive than male managers and men in general. Evidence for gender differences in cognitive style was sought by administering the Cognitive Style Index, a measure of intuition analysis, to three UK samples of managers and three UK samples of non‐managers. Results indicate that there is no difference between female and male managers in terms of intuitive orientation, that female non‐managers are more analytical (less intuitive) than male non‐managers and more analytical than female managers. This lack of support for stereotypic characterisation of women managers and women in general as being more intuitive than their male equivalents is discussed within the context of structural and gendered cultural perspectives on behaviour in organisations.
Lacking balance?
Authors: Hyman Jeff , Summers Juliette
Published: July 2004

The UK has operated a lightly regulated approach to help employees balance their work and domestic obligations, an approach which employers have welcomed and which they and Government consider to be successful. On the basis of empirical studies this paper challenges these assumptions and outcomes. Apart from definitional difficulties, seven major problems associated with current UK practice over work‐life balance are identified. The first problem concerns unevenness of adoption across different sectors and organisations. The second is a lack of formalisation of policies at organisational level, with largely untrained line mangers having discretion over policy application. Third, there is restricted employee voice over the introduction and implementation of policies. Fourth, policies are introduced primarily to meet business needs, rather than those of employees. Fifth, there is no evidence of reductions in working hours. Sixth, tangible and intangible work intrusions into domestic life have been identified. Finally, domestic responsibilities are still conducted primarily by women irrespective of their employment status. The researchers conclude that many employees continue to face difficulty in reconciling their work and domestic responsibilities.
Transactive memory directories in small work units
Authors: Peltokorpi Vesa
Published: July 2004

Despite the increased importance for companies to control their intangible assets, little empirical research has been made on the linkages between single and distributed cognition in organizations. In this paper, the transactive memory concept is extended and adapted to examine the antecedents and consequences of directory formation in the Nordic subsidiaries in Japan. Value congruence, psychological safety, organizational commitment, and interpersonal and electronic communication are proposed to have a positive impact on directories. The directories are proposed to have positive linkage with service capital. Regression analyses show that the most of the independent variables have a statistically significant relationship with directories. Further, interpersonal communication mediates the impact of value congruence and psychological safety to directories. Directories were also found to have a positive relationship with the service capital.
Ethnic minority personnel careers
Authors: Ross Catharine
Published: July 2004

Personnel departments often have particular responsibility for equal opportunities within their organizations. This paper explores equal opportunities within personnel departments themselves, in relation to the careers of ethnic minority personnel practitioners. Through primary research, it identifies a range of criteria which can affect personnel careers, of which ethnic origin is often one. However, although being categorized as of ethnic minority origin often hinders personnel careers, the paper reveals that it is sometimes possible for individuals who are so categorized to overcome that negative effect through demonstrating some of those other criteria. Thus, the paper suggests, it is not just organizational equal opportunities practices which may provide hope for ethnic minority personnel careers but also – and perhaps more importantly – the actions of the ethnic minority individuals themselves. Ways in which personnel departments might support these actions are discussed.
Quality management practices in the purchasing function
Authors: Sánchez‐Rodríguez Cristóbal , Martínez‐Lorente Ángel R.
Published: July 2004

The topic of this research focuses on firm's perceived implementation of quality management practices in the purchasing function. More specifically, this paper describes an exploratory research effort to analyze and classify quality management practices in purchasing and assesses the relationships of these practices with measurements of a firm purchasing's operational performance (POP), internal customer satisfaction and business performance. The results reported in this study are based on a field survey consisting of responses gathered from 306 purchasing managers within the Spanish manufacturing industry. The assessment of the relationships among quality management practices in purchasing, POP, internal customer satisfaction and business performance is carried out using bivariate correlation analysis.
Outsourcing in Australia
Authors: Beaumont Nicholas , Sohal Amrik
Published: July 2004

This paper reports on data pertaining to outsourcing collected from a survey administered in 2002 in Australia. The underlying assumption was that outsourcing is becoming popular for sound business reasons such as economies of scale and enabling executives to concentrate on core business activities. This paper explores the outsourcing decision (to outsource, not to outsource, or to discontinue outsourcing), especially reasons for (not) outsourcing. Most of the reasons have been anticipated in the literature. The strongest group of reasons (termed “Operational”) pertained to cost savings and improving performance, but outsourcing is also used to access skills and resources not available in‐house. The most important impediment to outsourcing was ascertaining relevant costs, and formulating and quantifying requirements. We describe the methodology, report findings and allude to future research.
Testing the four‐stage model of the strategic role of operations in a UK context
Authors: Barnes David , Rowbotham Frank
Published: July 2004

This paper reports on research aimed at operationalising the Hayes and Wheelwright four‐stage model describing the strategic role of operations. Although this model has classic status in operations management, it is little tested in practice. A questionnaire derived from the model was administered in a large‐scale postal survey of managers in a variety of UK manufacturing and service organisations. Analysis of the responses indicates that only a little over half of respondents were able to provide an assessment of their organisation's operations that fitted the logic of the four‐stage model. This seems to imply that managers have difficulty in assessing the strategic role played by their operations in an internally consistent and coherent manner. The results question the utility of the model and raise concerns about its validity.
The measurement of manufacturing virtuality
Authors: Webster Margaret , Sugden David M. , Tayles Mike E.
Published: July 2004

The paper discusses the measurement of manufacturing virtuality and, in doing so, contributes to knowledge in the fields of operations strategy, operations management and accounting. Initially, the use of a virtual manufacturing operations strategy within the contemporary business environment is considered. Thereafter, a conceptual scale by which the extent of the virtuality of a manufacturing organisation can be measured is presented. A preliminary version of the scale is described together with its application to three companies manufacturing in the global electronic and electrical industrial sector. These companies, each having adopted different operations strategies, potentially represent the two extremes and a mid‐point on the virtuality scale. The empirical component of the work includes presentation of case study descriptions of the companies and the results of the application of the scale. These are shown to provide evidence of its validity. The final section of the paper analyses the current form of the model and describes how its performance might be informed by the incorporation of concepts from accounting that embrace the financial measurement of intangible company assets. It is a further demonstration of the limitations of conventional financial reporting in dealing with contemporary issues in management and business. The paper concludes by discussing the generic significance of the work and by presenting future directions for the research.
Reactions to outdoor teambuilding initiatives in MBA education
Authors: Shivers‐Blackwell Sheryl L.
Published: July 2004

This study examines the performance of 36 teams of MBA students (N=147) in an outdoor challenge training (OCT) initiative. Results indicate that teamwork attitudes collected before the OCT are positively associated with team support, potency, intentions to remain in the team, and team survival. However, team performance in the initiative was not related to any of the team viability constructs.
Ethics versus corruption in globalization
Authors: Zekos Georgios I.
Published: July 2004

Individuals and organizations will exhaust all available gains from trade and the resulting allocation of resources will be efficient when allocation will reflect accurately society's opportunities and preferences – including preferences related to individuals' ethical standards. Which behaviours are ethical and which are unethical? International society due to globalization has to develop and establish common ethical principles of behaviour in social life taking into account religion and world civilization. The basic values of humans and life as creation have to be identical all over the world, which means that human behaviour should be similar all over the world. So, similar actions should be ethical or unethical similarly all over the world and principles established by different kinds of societies should not alter the basis of values of life and humanity.
Optimising skills transfer via outdoor management development
Authors: Burke Veronica , Collins David
Published: July 2004

Despite rapid expansion in provision of outdoor management development (OMD), there is a lack of empirical evidence to support the efficacy of the learning process and crucially, its transfer to the workplace. Prompted by the dearth of research into the linkage between programme aims, the methodologies utilised and outcomes that are purported to accrue, a new framework for analysing the mechanisms of skills transfer is proposed. The framework represents a decision making chain comprised of three factors i.e. the knowledge base, learning approach and practice setting. In order to explore the veracity of the framework, data were gathered about the methodologies used by ten major providers of OMD to promote the transfer of skills in conflict handling. Results confirmed the model to be tenable insofar as the variables represented within it were reportedly utilised as aspects of skills development. Significantly, however, there was little evidence for the application of this framework, or any other process‐based decision making, on the design of optimum content or method.
Remote document supply in Iceland before and after nationwide access to 8000 e‐journals: the story so far
Authors: Hlynsdóttir Þórný , Gylfadóttir Þóra
Published: July 2004

In the year 2000 Iceland gained nationwide access to 4,000 e‐journals, another 3,500 in 2001 and over 500 since then. Thus, the population of Iceland has been given the opportunity to access full‐text articles of over 8,000 journals, most in the field of science, technology and medicine (STM) via the Internet. This paper tells the history and the effects of the nationwide access to e‐journals on remote document supply (RDS), both at The National and University Library of Iceland (NUL) and in Iceland generally. At 27 percent in 2002, NUL has the most RDS of any library in Iceland.
Recent developments in remote document supply in the UK
Authors: Prowse Stephen
Published: July 2004

Recent trends and developments in remote document supply in the UK are examined, including a suggestion of what to call the activity itself. The impact of recent legislation covering copyright, legal deposit and electronic signatures on RDS is discussed as is the effect of electronic journals deals. Changes at BLDSC are noted, particularly the introduction of a secure electronic delivery service. But BLDSC will have to operate in a changing environment as envisaged in a new interlending scheme, BLDSC Plus. The central importance of BLDSC however is underlined by two important studies. The future prospects of a number of RDS systems are mentioned, but the reliance on an unreliable transport scheme for the delivery of returnables threatens to undo much of the good work. The conclusion is that RDS and related activities are in a transitional phase.
What's the “big deal”, and why is it a bad deal for universities?
Authors: Ball David
Published: July 2004

At first sight the “big (or all‐you‐can‐eat) deal” seems excellent value for libraries and their users, and represents the shining possibilities of the electronic age. A more thorough‐going evaluation, however, exposes dangers for universities, their funders and publishers. This paper examines the big deal in the light of fundamental market conditions and suggests alternative models for procuring electronic resources. The roles and strengths of the players in the information supply chain are defined and traditional hard‐copy procurement is analysed in terms of these roles and the concepts of authority, branding and monopoly. The fundamentals of procuring electronic resources and prevalent purchasing models are discussed in terms of the same roles and concepts. The advantages of the big deal are laid out ‐ access to resources, low unit costs etc. The dangers are also discussed. These arise mainly from the publishers’ position as monopolists. The possible long‐term effects, on library budgets and academic publishing, of dealing with monopoly suppliers are examined. Means of avoiding or minimising these dangers – consortia, alternative publishing methods, new economic models to promote competition – are examined.
The consistency of individual auditors in performing evaluations
Authors: O'Leary Conor
Published: July 2004

This study examines the consistency of external auditors in evaluating internal control structures using two different audit methodologies, their current firm procedures and a standardised, structured matrix approach. Previous consistency studies have evaluated consistency over time. This study acknowledges that in the current audit climate auditors change firms more frequently than previously, therefore gaining exposure to different methodologies. Also, more public interest exists in the performance of auditors and their firms. Hence, evaluating consistency across methods rather than over time would appear beneficial. Irrespective of the method used, an auditor should arrive at the same evaluation. A total of 94 practising auditors from five different firms performed the evaluations. Overall a satisfactory level of consistency was achieved. This helps to support the concept of a self‐regulating profession maintaining a satisfactory level of performance among its members as regards to one professional trait, consistency.
Factors related to the organizational and professional commitment of internal auditors
Authors: Kwon Ik‐Whan G. , Banks Doyle W.
Published: July 2004

Much has been written about organizational and professional commitment; however, little has been directed toward the internal auditing profession. Given the recent decline of Enron, WorldCom, etc., and new regulations (eliminating the outsourcing of internal auditing) the internal auditor is likely to gain more responsibility in the firm. It will benefit employers and the professions to better understand what leads the internal auditor to become committed to his/her organization and profession. This study addresses that need. Results show that factors influencing organizational commitment are different from those influencing professional commitment. Multiple linear regression models show strong relationships between organizational commitment and job meaningfulness; however, task identity has a strong positive relationship with professional commitment while gender and organization size (services sector and internal auditor certification) have a positive (negative) influence on organizational commitment. Internal auditor certification also shows a positive impact on professional commitment. Management implications of these results are discussed.
Beyond Arthur Andersen
Authors: Doost Roger K. , Fishman Teddi
Published: July 2004

Recent corporate scandals, fraud, and misuse of resources involving top executives and multi‐billion dollar companies such as Sunbeam, Tyco, Medco, Enron, Worldcom, the NYSE and others – not to mention accounting giant, Arthur Andersen, threaten the viability and continued success of the US economy, the global economy, and world‐wide political stability. Stock markets, employees' pension funds, national employment rates, and the ability of citizens to trust in economic systems are all adversely affected. It is time, therefore, to begin to assess and recognize actual risks and costs of political and corporate breeches of ethics.
A comparison of internal audit in the private and public sectors
Authors: Goodwin Jenny
Published: July 2004

This paper explores similarities and differences between public sector internal auditing and its counterpart in the private sector. Features examined include organizational status, outsourcing, using internal audit as a “tour of duty” function, activities and relationships with the external auditor. The study is based on a survey of chief internal auditors in organizations in Australia and New Zealand. Results suggest that there are differences in status between internal audit in the two sectors, with public sector internal auditors less likely to report to the chief financial officer. While a similar amount of work is outsourced, public sector organizations are more likely than those in the private sector to outsource to the external auditor. There is little difference between internal audit activities and interactions with external audit in the two sectors. However, private sector internal audit is perceived to lead to a greater reduction in audit fees compared to that in the public sector.
Client size, auditor specialization and fraudulent financial reporting
Authors: Carcello Joseph V. , Nagy Albert L.
Published: July 2004

This study examines the effect that client size has on the relation between industry‐specialist auditors and fraudulent financial reporting. Most of the major accounting firms have organized their audit practices along industry lines, reflecting a belief that industry specialization leads to higher quality audits. Furthermore, regulatory bodies and extant research suggests that larger clients have greater bargaining power and are more likely to be able to convince the auditor to acquiesce to aggressive accounting. Also, it may be more difficult for an auditor to possess industry expertise for larger clients who are likely to be more complex and operate in more than one industry. Consistent with previous research, we generally find a significant negative relation between auditor industry specialization and client financial fraud. Also, as expected, the negative relation between auditor industry specialization and financial fraud is weaker for larger clients. This study provides evidence that the positive benefits of auditor industry specialization in deterring financial fraud is affected by client size.
Long‐term effects of the going concern opinion
Authors: Nogler George E.
Published: July 2004

Studies have suggested that the auditor's fear of self‐fulfilling prophecy may alter an auditor's behavior concerning the issuance of a going concern opinion. This study investigates a sample of firms that received auditor going concern opinions and ultimately resolved these opinions successfully, as evidenced by subsequent unqualified opinions. The study finds that over 70 percent of these firms provide value to shareholders when monitored over a 12 to 18 year time period. Additionally, the study finds that this result is consistent with a matching sample of firms that had not received going concern opinions. The study further suggests that shareholders do best when the firm is acquired rather than when it continues in business. Larger firms are more likely subjects of acquisition while the smallest firms simply go out of existence over time. Considering the similarity in outcomes between the resolved going concern sample and the matching sample, it appears that there is no long‐term stigma attached to having received a going concern opinion.
The future of UK internal audit education
Authors: Vinten Gerald
Published: July 2004

Internal audit education is now concentrated in just a few tuition providers within the UK, a decrease from the 1980s. Generally it is not represented at all in its own right within higher education, and may just receive a passing reference as contrasted with external auditing. Hence it is scarcely perceptible and submerged. Even where it is rarely present it seems to have become “secularised”, its influence waning under the banner of “general management”. The professional body, the Institute of Internal Auditors – UK and Ireland, is too busy selling its highly profitable distance learning course to concern itself with disseminating the internal audit message to higher education, or attempt to gain its rightful footing within the curriculum. The limited literature is analysed and critiqued, the current state of play stated, and directions for the future indicated. Internal audit is in danger of becoming the best untold story.
High frequency PCB base materials – a comparison of thermomechanical properties
Authors: Ehrler Sylvia
Published: July 2004

There is increasing customer demand for materials with low dissipation factors for reduced loss along the traces and low dielectric constants for higher signal propagation speeds. High performance epoxies such as Nelco's N4000‐13, Isola's FR408 and General Electric's GETEK (similar to Matsushita's MEGTRON) have become essential for boards operating in the higher frequency range. For applications at the highest frequencies material choices are very limited. These materials, tailored for high frequency use, have disadvantages – either with their thermomechanical properties or with their processability. Recently, a number of new “high frequency” or “low loss” materials have been introduced by different suppliers. In an overall relatively small but growing market, these materials have to demonstrate their advantages – from an electrical, thermomechanical, processing, fabrication quality and/or cost standpoint when compared to the established materials. This paper compares the thermomechanical performance and fabrication quality of new “high frequency”/“low loss” base materials.
High performance epoxy copper clad laminate
Authors: Kehong Fang
Published: July 2004

In recent years, with the development trends towards lighter, shorter and smaller high performance and high reliability electronic products, printed circuit boards have ceaselessly been growing in terms of higher density and layer count. At present, conventional FR‐4 laminate, which is reinforced by glass fabric, has become the universal purpose base material because of its excellent adhesion, good electrical insulation and mechanical properties. However, with its relatively low glass transition temperature (Tg) of approximately 135°C, large coefficient of thermal expansion in the z‐axis direction, poor thermal resistance and propensity for resin smear while drilling, normal FR‐4 is severely limited in high performance applications, especially for multilayer board fabrication, and is used only for multilayer boards with layer counts below ten. Furthermore, conventional FR‐4 is usually cured using dicyandiamide, which could potentially cause insulation deterioration of the printed circuit boards and vulnerability in terms of delamination under high temperature treatment. These effects could degrade the reliability of PCBs and therefore, base material suppliers have focused on improving the Tg and thermal resistance to broaden the operating window of conventional FR‐4.
High‐performance substrate from new epoxy resin and enhanced copper foil
Authors: Valette Ludovic , Wiechmann Rudolf
Published: July 2004

The Dow Chemical Company has developed a new epoxy‐based system to serve the growing need for high‐performance dielectric substrates, requiring high thermal reliability (high Tg, high thermal resistance) and high signal speed and integrity (low dielectric constant and low loss factor). The system is based on advanced, proprietary resin technologies. The process latitude of this system is very similar to traditional high Tg FR‐4 products. The optimized rheology of the system leads to consistent, controlled flow. The copper foil JTCHTEAB from Gould Electronics, where AB stands for advanced bond, is interesting in this context as it was developed for use on high‐performance laminates with a typically lower ability for copper bonding, such as high Tg and low Dk/Df substrates. When the “LDk‐HTd” resin is used in combination with the JTCHTEAB copper foil, the copper peel strength fully meets the industry standard for high Tg FR‐4 laminates.
An introduction to high performance laminates and the importance of using optimised chemical processes in PCB fabrication
Authors: Goosey Martin , Poole Mark
Published: July 2004

With the ever increasing demands for high performance electronic devices there is a need for circuit board laminates that have enhanced properties when compared to conventional materials such as the widely used epoxide‐based FR4 laminates. Equipment manufacturers require boards with better mechanical stability and improved electrical characteristics. At the same time, new environmental legislation is set to drive electronics assembly temperatures much higher as manufacturers start to use lead‐free soldering processes. The legislation is also raising questions about the long‐term viability of brominated resins as the basis for imparting flame retardancy to laminates. Fortunately, laminate manufacturers have responded to these challenges by developing and introducing a wide range of new laminates that address these issues. This paper describes some of these challenges and gives an introduction to the new high performance laminates that are finding increasing use. It also highlights the need for chemical processes used in the manufacture of interconnects with laminates to be specifically optimised for the chosen substrate material.
A novel method for sequentially‐building multi‐layer circuits using LCP laminates, cap‐layers and bond plys
Authors: Roseen Cliff
Published: July 2004

Development efforts at Rogers are continuing on R/flex® liquid crystalline polymer (LCP) materials for printed circuit production. As an extension of our EIPC Spring 2003 paper, work has been completed on a novel method for sequentially building multi‐layer circuit boards using our laminates, bond plys and cap layers manufactured from various melt‐point LCP dielectric films. This paper discusses the theory and practice of sequentially built multilayers in all‐LCP and mixed dielectric constructions, reviews the pertinent processing steps and guidelines necessary for production and subsequent assembly thereafter, and considers some of the application areas that may benefit from this novel fabrication strategy.
PCB drillability: a material science approach to resin development
Authors: Verghese Nikhil
Published: July 2004

In the manufacturing process for making printed circuit boards (PCB) it is necessary to drill holes in the base copper clad laminate. This is a crucial step in the case of multi‐layer boards where the holes must be plated with copper to complete the electrical connection between the layers. Drilling is an expensive process as it requires the use of extremely sophisticated equipment. Most often this resides with a handful of companies; namely board shops and drill bit manufacturers. In recent years, with the evolution of high performance resins such as high glass transition (Tg) and decomposition temperature (Td) as well as low dielectric constant (Dk) and the continued embracement of the use of phenolic cured resins compared to dicyandiamide (DICY), issues around drillability have increased. As a part of our efforts we compared the mechanical and thermo‐mechanical properties of three resins. Actual drilling studies were performed on three‐high, copper clad stacks made from these three resins at Megatool in California, in order to confirm our fundamental property correlations. Resin toughness was found to play a crucial role in the final PCB drillability.
What share of the global upturn can Europe retain?
Authors: Friedrichkeit Hans J.
Published: July 2004

This paper views the economic situation for electronic component manufacturers worldwide, focusing particularly on those in Europe. It notes that recovery will proceed at a greatly varying pace, not only from one country to another but also based on sector or company‐specific factors. It also states that, in future, consumer goods of all kinds – primarily mass‐market electronic products – will be produced almost without exception in China and south‐east Asia.
Frank H. Knight's thought revisited
Authors: Fu‐Lai Yu Tony
Published: July 2004

This paper discusses Frank H. Knight's thought under three major themes, namely subjectivism, interpretation and social economics. Knight's economics starts with a conscious mind construct which is able to infer under partial knowledge. Conscious human action is purposive, forward looking and extends towards other individuals. Rejecting neoclassical positivism, Knight points to the need for economics to reconceptualize itself as an interpretative study, a methodology in the Weberian tradition. Furthermore, his allure for phenomenological economics opens a methodological possibility for the Austrian School of Economics. This paper concludes that Knight's insight earns himself a place in the history of subjectivist economics.
Variances in social partnership
Authors: Mellahi Kamel , Wood Geoff T.
Published: July 2004

This paper provides a critical appraisal of existing models of social partnership. We argue that single forms of partnership operating at the micro‐level are unlikely to be sustainable in the medium and long term. Yet, there is evidence that multi‐layered forms of partnership – in other words, a set of complementary partnership deals operating at a range of levels from workplace to the commanding heights of an economy – may provide the most desirable way forward. Such forms of partnership – combining partnership at the workplace with similar rapproachments at community and commanding heights – may allow for more effective use of human potential within firms, and enhance trust relations within the wider community and polity.
On the theory and practice of finance
Authors: Ardalan Kavous
Published: July 2004

The purpose of this paper is to provide an explanation for the way the reality in the world of finance comes to be formed, among other things, by the theory of finance. It is based on the idea that financial behavior is not independent of the theory of finance. The paper, therefore, examines certain aspects of the academic field of finance. That is, it examines theories, PhD programs, journals, and conferences in academic finance. It notes that they adhere, almost exclusively, to a certain worldview, called the functionalist paradigm. Then, the paper discusses the role of finance graduates as employees of universities, corporations, and financial institutions in the practice of finance. In this way, the paper provides an explanation for the social construction of the world of finance.
Teaching economics in a changing university environment
Authors: Alauddin Mohammad , Butler James E.
Published: July 2004

The environment for teaching Economics in Australian universities has undergone profound changes. The factors involved are well known: changing public policy goals, market expansion, internationalization, working to study, and an increasingly diverse clientele. This study investigates various changing aspects in the teaching of Economics. Questionnaire and interview data were collected from three stakeholders: students (the consumer), lecturers (the supplier), and Heads of Schools and the Executive Dean (the administrator). Effective communication, clarity of lecture notes, good acoustics, ability to focus on the theme, personality, ability to illustrate with examples were identified by students and staff as essential indicators of good teaching. The study derives some implications: expanding the Faculty Student Resource Centre; flexible and extended consultation hours; and English language support system.
South Africa
Authors: Agbola Frank W. , Damoense Maylene Y. , Saini Yvonne K.
Published: July 2004

A growing number of studies have concluded that South Africa has one of the highest cases of HIV infections in the world. With the epidemic continuing to evolve at an alarming rate, the government of South Africa has regarded the HIV/AIDS epidemic as a developmental and socio‐economic policy issue. This study explores the impact of HIV/AIDS on food demand in South Africa. Food demand functions were estimated using time‐series data for the period 1970 to 2000.Simulation analyses were undertaken to examine “with AIDS” and “without AIDS” scenarios. Unlike previous empirical findings, which dwell on the major negative impact of HIV/AIDS on food demand patterns in South Africa, this study foreshadows a more mixed outcome of both negative and positive impacts on the demand patterns for specific food types in South Africa as consequences of the HIV/AIDS epidemic and recommends policy changes.
The fallacy of integration: work and non‐work in professional services
Authors: Wilson Simon , Butler Michael , James Kim , Partington David , Singh Val , Vinnicombe Susan
Published: July 2004

Many organisations are encouraging their staff to integrate work and non‐work, but a qualitative study of young professionals found that many crave greater segregation rather than more integration. Most wished to build boundaries to separate the two and simplify a complex world. Where working practices render traditional boundaries of time and space ineffective, this population seems to create new idiosyncratic boundaries to segregate work from non‐work. These idiosyncratic boundaries depended on age, culture and life‐stage though for most of this population there was no appreciable gender difference in attitudes to segregating work and non‐work. Gender differences only became noticeable for parents. A matrix defining the dimensions to these boundaries is proposed that may advance understanding of how individuals separate their work and personal lives. In turn, this may facilitate the development of policies and practices to integrate work and non‐work that meet individual as well as organisational needs.
Affirmative action or managing diversity: what is the future of equal opportunity policies in organisations?
Authors: Strachan Glenda , Burgess John , Sullivan Anne
Published: July 2004

Equal employment opportunity policies were introduced in Australia in the 1980s in response to women's disadvantaged workforce position. Australia's unique form of affirmative action was underpinned by legislation, and aimed to promote gender equity in the workplace via employer action. Throughout the 1990s there has been a policy shift away from collectivism towards individualism, and away from externally driven social programmes at the workplace towards managerialist driven social programmes. The main process for implementing progressive and inclusive equity programmes at the workplace is through human resource management policies that link employment diversity to organisational objectives (for example, productivity and profitability). Programmes titled “Managing diversity” have been introduced into some organisations, and today there are a variety of approaches towards equity policies in Australian organisations. The article proposes that a distinctive Australian version of managing diversity will develop in some organisations based on the prior national legislative framework.
Executive leadership roles in the Australian Public Service
Authors: Wyse Alison , Vilkinas Tricia
Published: July 2004

Current and future public sector executive leadership role demands are explored from a competing values perspective, using roles previously identified with a private sector population. The roles identified were vision setter, motivator, analyser and task master. The results of a 4×2×4×2 MANOVA indicated that there were significant results for the main factors of leadership roles and time and also for the interaction of these two factors. There were no significant gender differences, with female and male Australian Public Service senior executives offering very similar assessments of current and future role demands. Both groups said that future role demands would be greater than is currently the case. Reasons for the differences in the current and future role demands are discussed, and the scope for future research is highlighted.
Occupational pressures in banking: gender differences
Authors: Granleese Jacqueline
Published: July 2004

A total of 220 managers from a banking organisation were surveyed. No differences for age, educational background, employment history or managerial level were found, but females were significantly more likely than males to be the first person of their sex to hold their particular managerial position. Women are significantly less likely to be married or to have children. They have significantly fewer children, and their children tend to be significantly younger than those of their male colleagues. Women still have to make choices that men do not in order to further their careers. Average scores for occupational pressures were not high for either sex. Men report higher levels of pressure stemming from the work environment and managerial relationships with subordinates and superiors. Women report significantly higher pressures stemming from perceived gender inequities and work‐life balance concerns. Discussion focuses on why women bank managers do not perceive the workplace as free of gender‐related and work‐life balance pressures.
A treatise of randomness tested also in marine accidents
Authors: Goulielmos Alexandros M.
Published: July 2004

This article deals first in a theoretical fashion – a kind of a literature review – with the concept of randomness, as this appears in various disciplines. Second, an empirical approach is performed with actual data concerning marine accidents in the form of ships totally lost in two counts: ships lost per area and ships lost per month. The first appears non random and the latter is random! This finding is very crucial for the countries with the most dangerous areas, as well as for IMO. The test used for non‐randomness is the BDS statistic. The BDS statistic tests for the nonlinear dependence. The test proved randomness for monthly time series at both 95 per cent and 99 per cent confidence and non‐randomness for area data at the same confidence levels as above.