bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential Expression of IRS‐1 and IRS‐2 in UterineLeiomyosarcomas with Distinct Oncogenic Phenotypes: Lack ofCorrelation with Downstream Signaling Events
Authors: Colombatti Alfonso , Russo Pietro , Cervi Marta , Bogetto Laura , Wassermann Bruna , Mainiero Fabrizio , Spessotto Paola
Published: January 2003

Purpose: Insulin receptor substrates (IRSs) are essential for insulin‐induced mitogenic effects on several cell types but they
also are involved in cell transformation.We investigated whether the differential constitutive expression and potential distinct
downstream signaling events of IRS‐1 and IRS‐2 might be related to discrete tumourigenic phenotypes of three human
uterine leiomyosarcoma cell lines, one of which was specifically isolated for the present study.

Methods and results: SK‐UT‐1B egressed effectively from a gellyfied Matrigel matrix and grew as did DMR cells in an
anchorage‐independent manner in agar and induced rapidly growing tumours in nude mice. On the contrary, SK‐LMS‐1
cells did not emigrate from Matrigel, neither grew in agar nor were they tumourigenic. IRS‐2 was highly expressed in the
more malignant cell lines, whereas IRS‐1 was present only in SK‐LMS‐1 cells. However, upon insulin stimulation both IRS‐
1 and IRS‐2 were tyrosine phosphorylated with a similar kinetic in the respective cell lines; furthermore, after 1 min of
insulin stimulation PI3‐kinase associated with IRSs and after 2 min Shc was phosphorylated and associated with Grb2 with
minor differences detectable among the various cell lines in the duration of phosphorylation and/or in their association irrespective
of whether IRS‐1 or IRS‐2 were expressed.

Discussion: Our findings tend to exclude that the malignancy displayed by uterine leiomyosarcomas might be directly linked
to the activation of distinct IRS‐1‐ or IRS‐2‐dependent pathways.
Statistical Classification Strategy for Proton Magnetic ResonanceSpectra of Soft Tissue Sarcoma: An Exploratory Study withPotential Clinical Utility
Authors: Bezabeh Tedros , El-Sayed Samy , Patel Rakesh , Somorjai Ray L. , Bramwell Vivien , Kandel Rita , Smith Ian C. P.
Published: January 2003

Purpose: Histological grading is currently one of the best predictors of tumor behavior and outcome in soft tissue sarcoma.
However, occasionally there is significant disagreement even among expert pathologists. An alternative method that gives
more reliable and non‐subjective diagnostic information is needed. The potential use of proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy
in combination with an appropriate statistical classification strategy was tested here in differentiating normal
mesenchymal tissue from soft tissue sarcoma.

Methods: Fifty‐four normal and soft tissue sarcoma specimens of various histological types were obtained from 15 patients.
One‐dimensional proton magnetic resonance spectra were acquired at 360 MHz. Spectral data were analyzed by using both
the conventional peak area ratios and a specific statistical classification strategy.

Results: The statistical classification strategy gave much better results than the conventional analysis. The overall classification
accuracy (based on the histopathology of the MRS specimens) in differentiating normal mesenchymal from soft tissue
sarcoma was 93%, with a sensitivity of 100% and specificity of 88%.The results in the test set were 83, 92 and 76%, respectively.
Our optimal region selection algorithm identified six spectral regions with discriminating potential, including those
assigned to choline, creatine, glutamine, glutamic acid and lipid.

Conclusion: Proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy combined with a statistical classification strategy gave good results in
differentiating normal mesenchymal tissue from soft tissue sarcoma specimens ex vivo. Such an approach may also differentiate
benign tumors from malignant ones and this will be explored in future studies.
A Sarcoma at the Site of Previous Extravasation of Adriamycin
Authors: Ceulemans Joris , De Wever Ivo , Sciot Raf , Debiec-Rychter Maria , van Oosterom Allan T.
Published: January 2003

We report the case of a 66‐year‐old man presenting with a high‐grade pleomorphic sarcoma at the left elbow 16 years after
the extravasation of adriamycin given for a malignant ifbrous histiocytoma of the tibia.We suggest that this sarcoma originated
in a multistep way over many years, out of the chronic inflammatory tissue that developed due to a non‐specific cellular
damage at the nuclear level, interfering with normal cell replication necessary for normal healing tissue healing. As a result,
the non‐healed chronic inflammatory tissue transformed over several years into a preneoplastic mesenchymal tumour and
later into a high‐grade pleomorphic sarcoma.
Swedish consumers’ opinions about gene technology
Authors: Koivisto Hursti Ulla‐Kaisa , Magnusson Maria K. , Algers Anne
Published: January 2003

A total of 316 consumers participated in an interview study on their opinions on genetic modification (GM). Most participants were negative to use of GM in general. About 20 percent of the respondents were willing to accept GM foods for marketing in Sweden and were also willing to buy such products. Almost all respondents stated that GM products should be labelled. The respondents were most positive to applications “GM of bacteria for medical purposes (e.g. insulin producing bacteria)” and “Genetic approaches to fighting hereditary diseases”. Males were generally more positive to GM, so were the younger respondents. No significant differences in consumer attitudes were found with respect to level of education or place of residence. The results indicate that Swedish consumers in general are negative towards GM. However, the motives underlying the consumers’ opinions are far from clear. Consumer concerns are very complex and difficult to study. Therefore, individual and group interview strategies could prove to be valuable in attempts to further understand consumer attitudes to this new technology.
The impact of breed type, sex, method of rearing, winter nutrition and subsequent grazing treatment on the rate of carcass cooling and eating quality of beef
Authors: Seaman C.E.A. , Hunter E.A. , Hinks C.E. , Hughes A.H. , Lowman B.G.
Published: January 2003

Cattle from three cohorts were followed from rearing to slaughter in a lifetime study of the factors affecting the quantity and quality of saleable meat produced. The cattle were from either Hereford or Charolais sires, were either heifers or steers and were either bucket reared or suckled. Winter feeding treatments were imposed using different levels of concentrates in combination with ad lib grass silage. During the following summer the cattle grazed pastures with two different grass heights. A portion of the cattle were slaughtered at turnout (May), and during June/July, August, September, November and the following April. The present paper reports studies of carcass cooling characteristics and the eating quality of the meat. Immediately after slaughter, in commercial abattoirs, probes were attached to the carcasses and the temperature was monitored for approximately 36 hours. Although considerable variation was observed in cooling rates this could not be attributed to animal production factors. However, a weak relationship was observed with condition score (fat content) measured on the live animal immediately prior to slaughter. Carcasses from animals with higher condition scores cooled more slowly. The eating quality of the meat was assessed by a consumer panel consisting of staff and students from Queen Margaret University College. Although large differences in eating quality were recorded, these differences could not be attributed to animal production factors. Beef producers should therefore maximise production of saleable meat from each animal whilst minimising the cost of so doing.
Consumers’ willingness to pay for origin labelled wine
Authors: Skuras Dimitris , Vakrou Aleka
Published: January 2003

Quality agricultural products are assuming an increasingly important role in European Union (EU) agricultural and food policies. The potential for differentiating quality products and services on a regional basis has been recognised and legislation has been introduced for protecting the geographical indications and designations of origin for agricultural products and quality foodstuffs. Today, marketing strategies for quality products attempt to explore these new opportunities, trying to build on the products’ reputation and the image of their region of origin. This study employs a dichotomous choice model to identify the socio‐economic characteristics that influence Greek consumers’ willingness to pay for an origin labelled wine. The results indicate that wine consumers’ willingness to pay varies only according to social and demographic characteristics. Furthermore, the mean willingness to pay was estimated using two alternative econometric specifications of the dichotomous choice model. We have found that non‐quality wine consumers are willing to pay double the price of a bottle of normal table wine if the alternative provides for a guarantee of the place of origin of the wine. Their decision is found to be dependent only upon education and affiliation with the place of origin. The model specifications are compared and useful conclusions referring to price policy for origin labelled wines and their marketing are drawn.
Vitamins and minerals for health
Authors: Godfrey David , Richardson David
Published: January 2003

Although it is possible to achieve a balanced diet by eating a variety of foods, it is clear that there is a gap between the ideal and the reality of what people actually eat. For individuals at all stages of life and with changing lifestyles where food selections may compromise optimal nutrition, nutrient‐dense foods including fortified foods and food supplements can serve as an effective means of ensuring that micronutrient needs are fulfilled. Populations at risk include the elderly, women at various life stages, children and adolescents, and people trying to lose weight. Efficacy and safety are key health issues: efficacy refers to the ability of vitamins and minerals either to prevent a deficiency, to enhance a physiological effect or to reduce the risk of disease; safety refers to the safe intake of a micronutrient to avoid adverse effects. Safety is the fundamental tenet of the scientific risk assessments and the cornerstone of food safety policy and legislation. Harmonisation of laws on food fortification and food supplements at EU level will help to ensure a high level of public health and consumer protection and facilitate the free circulation of food products within the community.
Performance evaluation and control: supporting organizational change
Authors: Johnson Phil , Cassell Catherine , Close Paul , Duberley Joanne
Published: January 2003

Many companies have found that the presumed benefits of organizational change initiatives, such as TQM or team working, have not been forthcoming because managers have failed to support those developments through the simultaneous adaptation of the company’s performance evaluation and control systems. This paper reports new research sponsored by the EPSRC which has developed a prototype practitioner methodology to help managers in their role as organizational designers to critically appraise and diagnose current organizational control practices and, where appropriate, intervene.
The business activities of Jewish women entrepreneurs in medieval England
Authors: Berman Brown Reva , McCartney Sean
Published: January 2003

Recounts how medieval English Jewry began when Jews were invited to immigrate by William I and ended with their expulsion by Edward I in 1290. The Jewish community was important and for most of its existence it was prosperous, owing to its particular social function – being the bankers, moneylenders and financiers of the time. Concentrates on a relatively little known aspect of the medieval Jewish community: the role played by its women. Jewish women played a significant part in business, not just as the wives or widows of businessmen, but as entrepreneurs on their own account. This was in sharp contrast to the position of women in wider English society. Using contemporary documents, the article examines the scale and nature of the business activities of Jewish women in medieval England, sketches the activities of some of these female entrepreneurs, and attempts to investigate the factors which enabled them to play such a prominent role.
Management history as told by popular culture: the screen image of the efficiency expert
Authors: Lee Mordecai
Published: January 2003

This exploration of management history focuses on mass entertainment media to determine the history of the efficiency expert in popular culture. It reviews the history of the image of the efficiency expert in film and on American‐produced television programs. The review shows that this profession is a universal and pervasive one, permanently embedded in our culture and catholic in background, occupation and workplace. It is generally a man’s job. The most significant historical trend is a sharp change from the efficiency expert as an amusing and relatively harmless character to a malevolent one who is to be feared. Although television has only existed for about half as long as motion pictures, the depiction of the efficiency expert on TV is similar to his movie image. This widely recognized profession needs no introduction to the viewer. He is a negative figure, often laughed at but never admired.
Management decision making and ethics: practices, skills and preferences
Authors: Holian Rosalie
Published: January 2003

This article summarises the findings from a study of practising managers which explored experiences of and views on decision making about actual ethical issues in organisations. Data gathering was based on a combination of an intensive case study of an organisation and in‐depth interviews with senior managers and management consultants from 32 organisations. A rigorous qualitative analysis of the observed experiences, strategies and responses to ethical issues and problems resulted in categorisation of skills associated with: judgement, integrity, courage and humanity. The different ways in which these skills were integrated led to approaches identified as: legalistic, entrepreneurial, navigation and worried modes. The repertoire of skills which contributes to selection of these alternative approaches and implications for the development of ethical decision making practices are discussed.
The relation of training practices and organizational performance in small and medium size enterprises
Authors: Huang Tung‐Chun
Published: January 2003

To determine whether training programs produce real benefits for small and medium‐size enterprises (SMEs), we must investigate the relationships between those programs and their effects on the business performance of SMEs. Although a number of previous studies have attempted to accomplish this task, serious inadequacies, such as inconsistent definitions of training and “rough” methods of training classification and measurement, have raised doubts about the validity of their findings. To remedy these inadequacies and more accurately assess the relationships between training and training effectiveness, this study employs a comprehensive measurement of training including training organization, expenditure, duration, process, and delivery methods. Its findings show that firms with sophisticated training systems and strong management support for training are most successful at maximizing the effectiveness of their training programs.
The effect of regulatory practices in achieving competitive advantage
Authors: Douglas‐Judson Zoe J. , Radnor Zoe J.
Published: January 2003

The paper examines change programmes based around the introduction of regulatory practices, both voluntary and involuntary (imposed form outside). These are essentially of two kinds: work critical (attempting to improve the effectiveness or efficiency of work) and safety critical (attempting to improve the health and well‐being of the workforce, customers or other stakeholders). The paper discusses the effect that regulatory practices have on individual and organisational behaviour and attempts to understand why some change programmes succeed and others fail. Evidence is provided from a review of the current literature and an initial qualitative case study.
An analysis of the functions of international transfer of managers in MNCs
Authors: Harzing Anne‐Wil
Published: January 2003

Aims to get a clearer picture of why multinational companies (MNCs) send out expatriates. Identifies three organisational functions of international transfers: position filling, management development and coordination and control. Based on an empirical study with results from 212 subsidiaries of MNCs from nine different home countries, located in 22 different host countries, shows that the importance that is attached to these functions differs between subsidiaries in MNCs from different home countries, between subsidiaries in different host regions and in addition varies with the level of cultural difference. Sees position filling as most important for subsidiaries of US and British MNCs and in the Latin American and Far Eastern regions. Sees management development as most important for subsidiaries of German, Swiss and Dutch MNCs and as tending to occur more in Anglo‐Saxon countries than in the Far Eastern region. Transfers for coordination and control seem to be most important for subsidiaries of German and Japanese MNCs and in host countries that are culturally distant from headquarters. Argues that these differences might have important consequences for expatriate management.
Teleworking: potential employment opportunities for older workers?
Authors: Patrickson Margaret
Published: January 2003

Advances in technology have significantly expanded the capacity of individuals to undertake their work role outside the confines of their employers’ premises, and changes in industrial relations policies and practices in Australia have facilitated organisational willingness to explore such possibilities. A significant portion of all off‐site working is undertaken by employees at home, and this group increasingly consists of teleworkers who undertake data processing activities in a home office communicating the results to their employer via modem or phone. This paper considers whether such changes, especially the recent growth in teleworking, can generate potential work opportunities for those who have traditionally been marginalised in the workforce. In particular the paper explores whether teleworking might open employment opportunities to older workers. It concludes that though older workers might offer as potentially viable candidates for this type of work activity they are unlikely to be successful in gaining employment given present employer attitudes and practices.
A model for managing trust
Authors: Martins Nico
Published: January 2003

The study, representing 6,528 employees, investigates the relationship of the “big five” personality dimensions and managerial practices to the dimension of trust relationships between managers and employees, and also the relationship between the “big five” and managerial practices. Results indicate that managerial practices have an influence on the trust relationships between managers and employees. A weaker relationship with the dimension of trust was obtained for the “big five” personality dimensions. Although there appears to be a weaker relationship between the “big five” and the dimension of trust, the relatively good fit of the model indicates that an overall implication of the model is that both managerial practices and the “big five” personality aspects of the manager might influence his/her subordinates indirectly. The results indicate that although managers perceived it to be a good instrument to use, future research is needed to expand other anecdotes of trust.
Resistance to organizational change: the role of cognitive and affective processes
Authors: Bovey Wayne H. , Hede Andy
Published: January 2003

Most previous studies of organizational change and resistance take an organizational perspective as opposed to an individual perspective. This paper investigates the relationship between irrational ideas, emotion and resistance to change. Nine organizations implementing major change were surveyed providing data from 615 respondents. The analysis showed that irrational ideas are positively correlated with behavioural intentions to resist change. Irrational ideas and emotion together explain 44 percent of the variance in intentions to resist. Also outlines an intervention strategy to guide management in developing a method for approaching resistance when implementing major change.
Adding value to performance measurement by using system dynamics and multicriteria analysis
Authors: Santos Sérgio P. , Belton Valerie , Howick Susan
Published: January 2003

The design, implementation and use of adequate performance measurement and management frameworks can play an important role if organisations are to succeed in an increasingly complex, interdependent and changing world. Yet, despite widespread recognition of the importance of performance assessment, there are some issues that require further study if measurement systems are to be effective in the process of management through monitoring and decision making. This article proposes and seeks to illustrate that the use of system dynamics and multicriteria decision analysis, as part of a broader framework for performance measurement, can address some of the issues identified. The use of these approaches, independently and in an integrated manner, provides a means of exploring the dynamic complexity of organisations, making explicit trade‐offs between performance measures, and assessing the impacts of initiatives to improve performance, thereby enhancing understanding and ultimately contributing to the improvement of organisational performance.
Comparing the manufacturing strategies of Australian firms with their European counterparts
Authors: Mellor Robert , Gupta Pavan
Published: January 2003

Australia has strong European traditions, rooted in its history of the past 200 years. On the other hand, Australia differs from many European countries in a number of important respects, including geography, population density and aspects of government economic policy. This paper uses data from the International Manufacturing Strategy Survey (1996‐98) to examine how these similarities and differences may have impacted on the manufacturing strategies adopted by firms in the two regions. Whilst Australian and European manufacturers seem similar in many respects, in that they are listening to their customers, adopting quality strategies and utilizing technology, there are important differences in the speed of adoption of some aspects of these approaches. In particular, European manufacturers introduced a number of manufacturing technologies earlier and are using them more extensively than their Australian counterparts, whilst health, environmental and safety activities seem to be more prominent among Australian firms.
A note on Launhardt’s market area analysis
Authors: Shieh Yeung‐Nan
Published: January 2003

This note examines Launhardt’s analysis of market area in Chapter 27 of his 1885 book. Under the assumption of quadratic utility function, we derive the individual spatial demand and use this spatial demand curve to show the formation of a circular market. We further show that the size of the market area is inversely proportional to the square of the freight rate without the constant marginal utility assumption. Backhaus recently claimed that the application of this Launhardt’s market area rule requires the constant marginal utility assumption. We show that Backhaus’s assertion is incorrect.
Reference analysis of the American Historical Review
Authors: Lowe M. Sara
Published: January 2003

This paper attempts to evaluate the literature of the field of history through a multi‐decade reference analysis of the American Historical Review. Reference analysis, a subsection of the larger field of bibliometrics, is a method of determining the characteristics of a field or subject by careful examination of the literature of that area. This study will analyze references from one issue of the AHR from the years 1950, 1970, 1990, and 2002 in five areas: total citations, age of the citations, language of the citations, format of the citations (e.g. monograph, journal, etc.), and the number of authors per citation. Hopefully, this analysis will help to define the patterns (if any) that have characterized the field of history through time.
Advanced digital automobile sensor applications
Authors: Ranky Paul G.
Published: January 2003

The modern automotive consumer is demanding high quality, reliable, safe, lower cost, environmentally friendly and easier to use product. This requirement drives engineers, and forces management to think of new methods in terms of on‐board automotive sensor‐to‐software solutions, better and more efficient engine management and control systems. In the garage, consumers finally want to know what is happening and why, what parts are changed and why and what were the exact time/cost issues of the job. This leads us to smart, advanced sensors, linked by software driven information systems that provide traceability throughout the entire lifecycle of the automobile from the engine to the tires. The traditionally very conservative automobile industry finally got the spirit from the robust client‐server Internet multimedia technology, and the real‐time (digital) distributed sensor/networking and multimedia entertainment opportunities.
WindSonic – a new ultrasonic anemometer
Authors: Stock Chris
Published: January 2003

Describes the developments of a small, robust ultrasonic wind speed and direction indicator. Gill’s patented ultrasonic technology is based on the time‐of‐flight operating principle, which provides vector measurement of air velocity, given the dimensions and geometry of pairs of transducers. In this case, two pairs of transducers are used such that the air velocity can be derived along orthogonal axes and hence the air speed and direction can be computed.
Investigation and assessment of attitudes to and perceptions of the built environments in NHS trust hospitals
Authors: Todd Stephen , Steele Andrew , Douglas Cal , Douglas Mary
Published: January 2003

This study investigated the perceptions and attendant behavioural attitudes of stakeholders, including patients and visitors, to the built environments and supporting facilities provided by an NHS trust hospital. The study used a variety of methodologies to collect empirical data. This included an extensive literature survey and research review, one‐to‐one patient interviews, a large questionnaire survey, patients’ picture stories, a novice‐expert technique and a series of futures conferences. By these methods, the study assessed how stakeholders perceived the health‐care environment, including buildings, internal and external areas, and landscape and aesthetic considerations. It further identified their preferences for a range of services that were not typically provided by the NHS and established the extent of their willingness to pay.
Analysis of the value of home automation systems
Authors: Petersen Tony , Williams Peter , Mills Anthony
Published: January 2003

Smart technology involves the integration of a variety of home systems including lighting, climate control, security etc. to enhance the comfort, convenience and economy of the home for its users. It is currently unknown if homebuyers believe that these systems add value to the home. This study used the market value of home sales and an attitudinal survey of homebuyers, to determine the increased value of homes containing smart technology. The results demonstrated that a significant price premium was paid for the incorporation of the technology into new homes. In addition, the research suggests that the use of this technology is not limited to high‐income earners or other demographic stereotypes. Instead it has broad market appeal and the potential to save energy for the community at large.
Evaluating the branding potential of Web sites across borders
Authors: Simeon Roblyn
Published: January 2003

Presents the AIPD approach to the evaluation of commercial Web sites within or across borders. Looks at firms in the software sector and uses the model’s benchmarking techniques to compare the informing, positioning, and delivering strategies of Web sites. Shows how these factors boosted the branding potential of the Web sites. In a comparison of the Internet strategies of Japanese and US software firms, results showed that US firms created more dynamic and innovative Internet environments. Gives market, cultural and institutional differences for the contrasting approaches to Web design, information and service delivery.
An examination of Web usage in a global context
Authors: McManis Bruce L. , Ryker Randy , Cox K. Christopher
Published: January 2003

The Web has been a growing topic of interest since its introduction into the popular culture. This study examines the use of the Web by the Fortune Global 100 firms relative to the Fortune 100. It examines the firms’ desire and ability to communicate to and with individuals and organizations interested in the firm. Each firm’s site was reviewed for accessibility, content, and inquiry potential. The Fortune 100 seems to be slightly ahead of the Fortune Global 100 in terms of information content and interactivity but trail in the area of multiple language availability. All of the other criteria that were examined did not clearly favor either group.
Telework and gender: implications for the management of information technology professionals
Authors: Beasley Robert E. , Lomo‐David Ewuuk , Seubert Virginia R.
Published: January 2003

Attracting and retaining highly skilled information technology (IT) professionals has been a difficult task for IT managers since the early 1980s. With over 400,000 unfilled IT positions in the USA today, many IT professionals are moving from job to job looking for higher salaries and more satisfying working arrangements. Since men and women often perceive their professional and domestic roles and responsibilities differently, more flexible working arrangements, which permit them to accomplish these roles and responsibilities in a more satisfactory manner, can be an important motivation for accepting and remaining in a given IT position. The purpose of this study was to investigate the similarities and differences between men and women in the IT industry in terms of their motivations to telecommute, and to discuss the implications for managing IT professionals.
Planning enterprise resources by use of a reengineering approach to build a global logistics management system
Authors: Huang Shi‐Ming , Kwan Irene S.Y. , Hung Yu‐Chung
Published: January 2003

Theoretically and ideally, enterprise resource planning (ERP) seeks to streamline and integrate operation processes and information flow within a company. Practically, ERP system implementation involves a much broader scope and in‐depth consideration within an organization as a whole. Concurrently, in response to this need for resource optimization, the impact of globalization has caused the emergence of a new business operation format, global logistics management (GLM). This pertains to the overall management system of a corporation’s undertaking of worldwide market distribution, product design, customer satisfaction, production, procurement, logistics, suppliers and inventory. Suggests building an ERP as the backbone for implementation of a GLM system, while minimizing the impact of changes by use of information system reengineering technology (ISRT). Proposes a novel development framework that applies ISRT and ERP to developing a GLM system to economize on the system implementation cost and minimize the impact of changes within the corporation as a whole.
Market segmentation via structured click stream analysis
Authors: Wen Kuang‐Wei , Peng Kuo‐Fang
Published: January 2003

Accurate market segmentation has been the basis for successful customization of products and services. To date, however, the marketing management literature has focused mainly on the exploration of segmentation variables, but lagged behind in the development of practical means for segmentation mechanisms using contemporary information technology. Motivated by this shortcoming, the current study attempts to devise an effective method that allows for systematic collection and analysis of online customers’ click stream data to facilitate market segmentation. Cohen’s CAD theory was employed in conjunction with artificial neural network models to provide the analytical foundation of this research. To test the effectiveness of the proposed method, a sizable online field experiment utilizing a disguised 7‐ELEVEN Website was conducted, and 912 useful click streams collected. The results from the subsequent data analysis supported the feasibility of the current work, but also identified the needs for further study.
Using lean principles to streamline the quotation process: a case study
Authors: Buzby Conan M. , Gerstenfeld Arthur , Voss Lindsay E. , Zeng Amy Z.
Published: January 2003

The quotation process tightly links the manufacturer and its suppliers and customers on a supply chain. An excellent record of successful quotes not only benefits trading partners, but also positions the manufacturer on the market in terms of its responsiveness, customer service, efficiency, and competitive pricing. In the existing literature, lean principles are generally applied to manufacturing only, this paper relies on a case study to show the application of lean manufacturing principles to the administrative function of the quotation process. In addition, the case demonstrates that electronic solutions are the best remedies for streamlining the quotation process to reduce the total cycle time – the basis for providing competitive prices and excellent customer service.
Accounting standards and the property manager: a case study
Authors: Eccles Timothy , Holt Andrew
Published: January 2003

Traditionally in the UK, accountants and their concepts of value have held little interest for those involved with the technical aspects of property management. Indeed, property valuers and accountants have traditionally adopted differing professional approaches towards the concept of valuation, despite nominally agreed valuing practices dating back to 1974. Most particularly, notwithstanding these agreements, the accounting profession has regarded the theory of property valuation for company accounts as a monopoly of its professional domination of the creation and implementation of accounting standards. Because of the lack of a codified conceptual framework, property assets were regarded identically to other assets. Equally, property managers attended to technical, infrastructural and legal aspects of managing properties. Examined in this paper, the development process behind Financial Reporting Standard 15: Tangible Fixed Assets (FRS 15) provided a realistic and fundamental shift of attitude. Not only were the opinions of valuers actively sought over the issue, but also the final standard adopted the definitions of value created by The Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS). Moreover, property assets now figure prominently in financial statements and so impinge directly on the net asset value and borrowing capability of the firm. Property management and modes of holding property have become central to running the business. This paper examines some of the arguments presented within the discussion process undertaken in the creation of FRS 15, highlighting the different approaches to the issue, and noting the likely negotiations to the standard to follow.
A comparison of US and Canadian residential mortgage markets
Authors: Courchane Marsha J. , Giles Judith A.
Published: January 2003

As financial markets move toward increased globalization, it becomes worth considering whether inherent differences in financial markets across different countries will diminish. For two countries more similar than different in terms of geography, location, government and culture, Canada and the USA remain strikingly different in terms of housing finance. Public policy objectives toward housing followed quite different paths over the past 70 years and fundamental differences in banking practices have led to considerably different outcomes in terms of mortgage finance instruments in the two countries. Examines some of the differences in policy and in competitive practices between Canada and the USA in an attempt to illuminate why differences in rates and terms across the two countries still exist. While a part of the difference remains due to legal constraints concerning the finance of the domestic housing sector, focuses on the economics and public policy choices that have led to the observed differences rather than on an analysis of the legal structure.
The education function in a digital library environment: a challenge for college and research libraries
Authors: Kibirige Harry M. , DePalo Lisa
Published: January 2003

Digital libraries have been a feature of the information arena for some time. They have re‐defined the concept of “bibliographic instruction” in which the connotation “library” is implicit, but has become inadequate in a digital library context. This article relates the results of pilot studies of Internet use in academic libraries in the New York metropolitan area to the education of users in a digital library environment. It attempts to crystallize vital concepts and issues generated by interviewing users and information professionals, which could not be quantified in an earlier publication. The studies revealed an urgent need to develop user‐education programs that emphasize: the nature and various types of digital collections; interfaces; hardware and software requirements; telecommunications access modes; and making such programs part of continuing education.
Electronic books for children in UK public libraries
Authors: Maynard Sally , McKnight Cliff
Published: January 2003

This article describes a survey investigating the opinions of children’s librarians on the subject of electronic books. A questionnaire was sent by post to those responsible for public library services for children at each of the 208 local government authorities in the UK. The response rate was 77 per cent. Notable conclusions include the fact that there was a positive attitude towards including electronic books as part of the children’s library service, and a high proportion of libraries offered access to them, the majority through main libraries. A small majority of libraries were offering electronic books for reference use within the library, rather than lending them out like printed books. Many of the librarians believed that electronic books can attract new members to the library, and that offering electronic books will change their role. Respondents believed that electronic books are durable, and can exist alongside the printed items within the library.
Content management and the future of academic libraries
Authors: Wu Yuhfen Diana , Liu Mengxiong
Published: January 2003

This paper discusses Internet‐based e‐content management. Specifically, this paper reviews the technologies, the criteria, and the issues and concerns in content repository (how content can be stored and retrieved), content contribution (how content can be created/digitized), workflow (content management), automation services, and lifecycle of automation services for controlling and managing content and processes. It presents an overview on the current available products and their applications in digital library deployment. Finally, issues, concerns, and challenges facing academic libraries are discussed.
Current developments in the Internet industry in Botswana
Authors: Mutula Stephen M.
Published: January 2003

This paper discusses current developments in the Internet industry in Botswana focusing on Internet connectivity and diffusion within the country. The national telecommunication network upon which Internet implementation is predicated is assessed in terms of teledensity, penetration, modernization, policy and regulatory framework. Internet infrastructure is discussed in the context of Internet hosts, number of users, Internet service providers and stakeholders. The current issues in the Internet industry within Botswana are analyzed. The constraints hampering Internet diffusion and prospects for Internet growth are outlined.
On the relation between different parametrizations of finite rotations for shells
Authors: Brank Boštjan , Ibrahimbegovic´ Adnan
Published: January 2003

In this work we present interrelations between different finite rotation parametrizations for geometrically exact classical shell models (i.e. models without drilling rotation). In these kind of models the finite rotations are unrestricted in size but constrained in the 3‐d space. In the finite element approximation we use interpolation that restricts the treatment of rotations to the finite element nodes. Mutual relationships between different parametrizations are very clearly established and presented by informative commutative diagrams. The pluses and minuses of different parametrizations are discussed and the finite rotation terms arising in the linearization are given in their explicit forms.
Parameter estimation for resin transfer molding
Authors: Jovanovic Vojin , Manoochehri Souran , Chassapis Constantin
Published: January 2003

A simplified approach for estimating weld lines, vent locations and fill times for resin transfer molding applications in non‐planar geometry is presented. The molding parts are treated as polyhedral spaces for which the concept of Voronoi diagram and shortest paths is utilized to predict the formation of weld lines, location of vents and filling times. The approach is based purely on geometrical considerations and on previously established observations that it is possible to treat the resin flow inside the mold as partly radial and partly channel‐like. The proposed procedure is geared towards software implementation, but it enables one to gain more insight into the process before detailed and time‐consuming calculations are attempted.
Formal specification scheme for database applications using requirements particle networks
Authors: Vatanawood Wiwat , Rivepiboon Wanchai
Published: January 2003

This paper proposes a systematic scheme for synthesizing formal specification from the definitions of relational data model – entity relationship diagram and their data dictionaries. The formal specification of both structural and behavioral properties of relational data model is generated in Z schemas. In our approach, the mandatory structural constraints – the uniqueness of primary key, foreign keys, and referential integrity constraints among the relations in the model, are preserved. We propose a set of transformation rules to produce Z schemas of the states and primitive operations – cascade insertion, deletion, and updating. Moreover, a composition technique of constructing the composite operations is presented by using requirements particle networks. The revision of the formal specification can be easily conducted with the mathematical proofs of the properties of the data model using Z prover tool.
Electronic commerce opportunities for improving corporate customer support in banking in Greece
Authors: Kardaras Dimitris , Papathanassiou Eleutherios
Published: January 2003

Banking, one of the most information intensive sectors, is an ideal domain for the successful development of e‐commerce. The present exploratory study focuses on e‐commerce opportunities for improving corporate customer services in the Greek banking sector. It reports on a survey of 11 marketing and information systems managers from five major Greek banks. The results indicate that the potential of e‐commerce ranges from simple applications, such as giving information about services, to more sophisticated ones that involve customers in services design and customisation. Suitable management actions are proposed to Greek banks in order to fully benefit from the Internet.
The implementation of an ISO 9000 quality system
Authors: Yahya Salleh , Goh Wee‐Keat
Published: January 2003

This paper indicates that ISO 9000 elements that relate to an organization quality system are hard to implement compared to elements that relate to operational procedures. The elements that are identified as difficult to implement and related to an organization quality system are: corrective and preventive actions, design control, management responsibility, statistical techniques, process control, document and data control and quality system. The elements that are perceived as easy to execute are: inspection and test status, packaging, preservation, and delivery, and inspection and testing. In addition, it has been found that companies that market their products in Europe, or engage in intense interaction with foreign partners, perceive a lesser degree of difficulty in practising the requirements of ISO 9000 series of standards compared to companies that do not have fair market share in Europe, or lack of foreign interactions. This argument works for companies with different ranges of paid‐up capital or operating years.
Non‐profit multi‐hospital organizations: challenges and prospects
Authors: Trogen Natalia , Yavas Ugur
Published: January 2003

This study seeks to determine the relative importance of factors non‐profit hospital administrators rely on in their decisions to join a non‐profit multihospital organization (MO) and their assessments of an MO in satisfying these motives. A related objective of the study is to determine whether or not the administrators of different types of hospitals (i.e. general vs specialty, member of a national vs non‐national MO and church‐affiliated vs non‐church affiliated) differ in their judgements. The analytical framework of the importance‐performance technique is used in analyzing the data gathered from the top administrators of a nation‐wide sample of hospitals in the USA. Results and implications of the study are discussed.
Adding value to learning through cultural change: the Northumbrian experience
Authors: Watson Margaret , Banwell Linda
Published: January 2003

The 1990s in UK Higher Education have seen far reaching changes throughout the sector, which have impacted in many and beneficial ways on the individual learner. The paper will provide evidence from the School of Information Studies at the University of Northumbria, Newcastle upon Tyne, UK: it will trace the developments in the teaching and research cultures in the 1990s and assess the resulting impact on learners. The Northumbria experience is that changes in its teaching and research cultures have resulted in developing all its staff as reflective practitioners, which adds value for the increasingly diverse learner community. Theory and practice are fused close to the marketplace, thereby both improving employability and enriching the learning experience.
Marketing, the consumer society and hedonism
Authors: O’Shaughnessy John , Jackson O’Shaughnessy Nicholas
Published: January 2003

Marketing is commonly assumed to be responsible for the consumer society with its hedonistic lifestyle and for undermining other cultures by its materialistic stance. This, for many critics, is the dark side of consumer marketing, undermining its ethical standing. This paper considers the connection between marketing, the consumer society, globalization and the hedonistic lifestyle, and whether marketing is guilty as charged. After all, anything that affects the image of marketing as a profession is important, as this influences both recruitment and social acceptance.