bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid prototyping by consolidation of stainless steel powder using an electrical arc
Authors: Rangesh A. , O'Neill William
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the feasibility of using a pulsed Tungsten inert gas arc to fully melt and consolidate stainless steel powder onto a stainless steel substrate. The technology aims to bridge the gap between selective laser sintering or laser melting and wire fed weld deposition by providing good quality and better resolution at a lower cost.

Design/methodology/approach

Current settings between 5 and 30 A and frequencies between 0 and 200 Hz were used to consolidate stainless steel powder onto a substrate. Results were catalogued based on surface roughness using white light interferometery to develop a process map.

Findings

Velocity independent thresholds of current (17 A minimum) and frequency (20 Hz minimum) were found, with better quality achieved at higher pulse frequencies. The microstructure of the samples were examined showing grain sizes of ≈3 μm for equiaxed grains and up to 20 μm for the columnar grains. Vickers hardness measurements showed only a 20 point average hardness increase in the HAZ compared to the substrate.

Research limitations/implications

The study showed that although it was possible to deposit stainless steel tracks, it was not possible to reduce the track resolution to less than 400 μm at any of the process settings.

Originality/value

The research aims to investigate the use of a readily available, low cost, heat source to consolidate metal powder. The suitability of such a heat source for rapid prototyping is investigated using a variety of objective tests to provide a balanced view of its capabilities and limitations.
Two Novel Applications of Adhesives for
Optical Microelectronics
Authors: Erickson M.
Published: November 2014

Most of HEI’s custom and
standard optical switches require one lens to focus light from an LED and another to collect and
concentrate that light onto a photoelectric diode. Plastic lenses are typically glued into apertures in
polycarbonate housings using a two ‐part room temperature cured adhesive. To reduce cost
and increase productivity, lenses are fabricated in the apertures using an ultraviolet cured clear
adhesive. This process eliminates the cost of moulded plastic lenses and reduces cure time from 24
hours to less than a minute. One of the custom optical applications requires
bonding a coated glass cover over a cavity containing optical sensors and circuitry. Gas expansion
causes ‘blow‐outs’ when heat cured adhesives are used and room temperature
cured adhesives add a day to turnaround time. An ultraviolet cured adhesive increases productivity by
eliminating blow‐outs and reducing turnaround time. A unique process has been developed in
which the glass cover is placed over the cavity in a vacuum bell jar.
Precision Tin/Lead Alloy Plating for Flip‐Chip Mounting Technology
Authors: Richter H. , Ruess K. , Gemmler A. , Leonhard W.
Published: November 2014

Bumping is a prerequisite for flip‐chip attachment of bare dies. For silicon semiconductors bumping is normally performed on the ICs at wafer scale. Bumping can be performed by micro‐plating or vacuum deposition techniques. Mechanical methods are also well known. In this paper a bumping process based on tin/lead alloy plating is reported. The plating bath presented enables the deposition of both solder compositions used for flip‐chip attachment, the eutectic and the lead‐rich. All key issues of the plating process covering plating equipment, electrolyte characteristics and plating process parameters are discussed. Methods of bump characterisation and quality assurance are reported as an important part of the bumping process. The deciding process parameters leading to high quality solder bumps are demonstrated.
The effect of perceptual fluency and enduring involvement on situational involvement in an online apparel shopping context
Authors: Im Hyunjoo , Ha Young
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Casual online shoppers without a strong intention to purchase items can easily leave web sites within seconds. However, there is little research examining how and why consumers are engaged momentarily when they are exposed to a target stimulus in a low involvement shopping situation. This online experiment study seeks to investigate the possibility of enhancing situational involvement with personal and stimulus factors, namely enduring involvement and perceived perceptual fluency, and to determine how enjoyment contributes to the relations among enduring involvement, perceptual fluency, cognitive effort, and situational involvement, in a low‐involvement online shopping context.

Design/methodology/approach

An online experiment was conducted to test the conceptual model. Two mock web sites with different levels of perceptual fluency were developed to test effects of perceptual fluency on situational involvement, and participants completed an online survey after viewing one on the web site.

Findings

Structural equation modeling was performed to test the proposed model (n=657). The result confirmed that perceived perceptual fluency elicited enjoyment, which in turn positively affected situational involvement, purchase intention, and cognitive effort. Enduring involvement influences enjoyment, cognitive effort, and purchase intention in a web‐browsing situation. Enjoyment plays a key role by mediating the perceptual fluency effect and enduring involvement effect on purchase intention and cognitive effort. The findings of the current study demonstrated that perceptual fluency of a stimulus could engage people by enhancing enjoyment.

Originality/value

The current study provides an insight into comprehensively understanding how situational involvement can be created through visual information display/web site design as well as a personal factor. The study uniquely approaches the issue of involvement and engagement through internal, psychological process of consumers. Also, the empirical support for the proposed model successfully extends the perceptual fluency hypothesis, contributing to the field of literature.
Branding paradigm for the bottom of the pyramid markets
Authors: Rajagopal
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This paper aims to deliver new models of brand management in bottom‐of‐the‐pyramid (BoP) markets, considering the personality traits, image, technology and reputation of firms associated with the brands.

Design/methodology/approach

Reviewing the previous research studies, the paper advocates new strategies for enhancing the performance of global brands in BoP market segments, improving brand‐positioning approaches, measuring brand performance and consumer value, evaluating brand attributes, and underlining brand dynamics in the competitive marketplace.

Findings

The study argues that the performance of global brands in low‐profile consumer market segments is constrained by high transaction costs and coordination problems along the brand promotions, consumption and consumer value chain. Hence, firms looking towards managing brands in BoP market segments need to reduce brand costs by increasing the volume of sales and augmenting consumer value. Brands of BoP market segments are socially and culturally embedded. They are co‐created by consumers and firms, and positioned with the influence of brand equity of the premium market. Unlike traditional brands, BoP brands may be sufficiently malleable to support brand interpretations in the rural and suburban consumer segments.

Research limitations/implications

Acquired brands need to be merged into the existing structure, especially where these brands occupy market positions similar to those of existing brands. A balance needs to be maintained between the brand name and its equity. Managers should keep themselves better informed about consumer needs, market changes and company initiatives, thereby enabling staff to help consumers to improve service quality, which in turn can improve market positioning.

Practical implications

In today's rapidly changing product markets, a firm needs to focus on a limited number of strategic brands in international markets in order to consolidate and strengthen its position and enhance brand power. The paper offers new business strategies to managers on brand positioning and targeting in suburban and rural markets with convenience packaging, pricing and psychodynamics.

Originality/value

New initiatives to manage global brands in BoP markets comprising suburban and rural markets that need to be implemented in the existing organizational culture are discussed.
Some children are more different than others
Authors: Neumann Sascha
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of the paper is to explore how professional educators in early childhood education cope with diverse linguistic environments in their daily work. The article addresses this issue by focusing on practices of language use in Luxembourgian nurseries.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is reflecting on empirical data of an ethnographic research project currently conducted in six different day care facilities for children from three months to four years old. The study uses participant observation and videography as data collection strategies. Data analysis was based on field notes and protocols, video recordings, photographs, documents, and artifacts.

Findings

On the basis of the ethnographic observations, two different practical regimes of “doing linguistic diversity” are discriminated: an area of “practicing super‐diversity” and an area of “practicing difference”. In the context of the second regime it becomes visible that the use of Luxemburgish as lingua franca for the communication between educators and children produces unequal distributed opportunities for foreign children when participating linguistically in the everyday life of daycare facilities.

Originality/value

The paper raises serious questions about the language policies in the Luxembourgian daycare sector as well as in respect to the supposed inclusion effects of early childhood education and care, effects that both politicians and professionals emphasize regularly. This especially concerns the conceptualization of “the child” which is in use while professionals treat children as foreign language speakers.
Narrative inquiry: embracing the possibilities
Authors: Thomas Sharon
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to promote narrative inquiry as a legitimate and rich research approach for academics undertaking postgraduate studies in higher education learning and teaching.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper is framed within a personal narrative – one that draws upon the author's personal experience as an academic developer. It draws heavily on narrative theory to support its claims.

Findings

It is argued that when narrative inquiry is presented as a complement to, rather than a replacement for, other research approaches, uptake amongst diverse groups of academics is strong. Furthermore, it is suggested that when accompanied by personal engagement with narrative inquiry and presented within a theoretical framework that honours its history, its robust literature and highlights its fundamental purpose and unique qualities, the possibilities offered by narrative are more likely to be understood and embraced.

Research limitations/implications

This paper is based upon the experience of one academic working within one university.

Originality/value

This paper highlights the possibilities offered by narrative inquiry as a research approach for diverse groups of teaching academics.
Using diamond ranking as visual cues to engage young people in the research process
Authors: Clark Jill
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to describe and consider the use of diamond ranking activities as visual cues to elicit ideas, prompt reflection and promote discussion amongst pupils (aged 10‐13), teachers and other staff in two qualitative research studies.

Design/methodology/approach

The activities included nine photographs as visual cues, and participants cut out these pictures and stuck them onto a piece of A3 paper in a diamond shape, ranking them by position where their preferred picture is at the top and the most disliked at the bottom.

Findings

Importantly, participants also annotated their diamond with qualitative comments and explanations.

Originality/value

This article explores the use of diamond ranking as visual cues – a tool within qualitative research that is under‐developed – as a way of engaging participants in the research process. Issues explored include inclusivity, active discussions and applicability to a wide range of people.
Supervisory conversations on rigour and interpretive research
Authors: Whiteley Alma
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive narrative account of supervisory conversations with doctoral students. They include providing knowledge and experience about the nature of qualitative and quantitative approaches and their respective histories and rigour requirements.

Design/methodological/approach

An introduction reveals the complexity, debates and dialectics that are engaged with during the doctoral supervisory process. Two design issues are discussed. One is research design; the other is supervisor method.

Findings

Rigour in interpretive research is distinctive, linked to its characteristics and the unique role of the researcher as an instrument of data collection, conscious of the need to give voice to respondents and preserve their authentic responses. The audit trail is a centrepiece for both rigour and the reflection, reflexivity necessary to address ongoing biases, decisions and dilemmas.

Research limitations/implications

Supervisory conversations are dynamic but there is a core, a set of initial conditions and these relate to the ethics and integrity of the doctoral student and the supervisor.

Originality/value

The paper penetrates the social space where supervisors and doctoral students interact. Within the text, “advice” and seminal ideas are presented from literature and the supervisor's experience that will inform researchers and demonstrate a supervisor method.
Transaction Costs and Value Creation in Global Alliances: A Relational Approach
Authors: Vidal Suárez Marta M. , García‐Canal Esteban
Published: November 2014

In this paper we analyze the influence of transaction costs on the stock market reaction to global alliance formation. In particular, we analyze to what extent the stock market reacts negatively to the presence of attributes that increase motivation or coordination costs. We adopt a relational framework, analyzing the direct impact of these attributes not only on transaction costs but also on the potential synergies of the alliance and the incentives to invest in the relationship. Our results show that the stock market reacts negatively to transaction costs only in connection with free riding hazards.
The Control Role of the Board of Directors: What Have We Learned?
Authors: Pascual Roberto , Larraza‐Kintana Martí
Published: November 2014

The control role of the Board of Directors is aimed at monitoring the decisions and actions undertaken by managers in order to protect stockholders’ interests. Considerable theoretical and empirical research has analyzed whether directors’ behavior is consistent with their fiduciary responsibility, but this research has reported inconsistent findings. This paper offers a comprehensive review of both theoretical and empirical literature on the control role of the board and suggests several guidelines for future research.
The Transformation Into Entrepreneurial Firms: Examining the Context of Privatization
Authors: De Castro Julio O. , Uhlenbruck Klaus
Published: November 2014

This paper builds upon the growing research on both privatization and entrepreneurship and provides a model to predict outcomes of privatization of state‐owned enterprises. Previous research has concentrated on the change in ownership as the principal driver of post‐privatization increases in firm performance and wealth creation. We suggest that structural conditions of the state‐owned enterprise and the privatization process, in combination with characteristics of the new owners, lead to performance changes because they determine the firm’s ability to transform from a state agency to an entrepreneurial organization.
Operations Strategy and New Venture Formation: A Conceptual Synthesis
Authors: McDermott Christopher M. , Markman Gideon D. , Balkin David B.
Published: November 2014

This paper presents a theoretical framework that extends the benefits of some core elements of operations strategy to the field of entrepreneurship. We show that the field of operations strategy, with its predominant focus on fit among configuration, competencies, and logistics, offers valuable insights into many strategic and tactical challenges that entrepreneurs face as they try to create business models and enter new markets or establish footholds in existing, but well‐defended markets. It is our aim to highlight the need for future endeavors linking the two fields.
Individual, Group, and Organizational Learning Levels and Their Interactions: An Integrative Framework
Authors: Balbastre Francisco , Oltra Victor , Martinez Juan F. , Moreno Maria
Published: November 2014

Most academic work usually explains organizational learning as a simple translation of individual learning. To fill this gap, this article focuses on the analysis of organizational learning as an iterative process in which group learning level is important. In this way, the model of organizational learning and knowledge generation presented in this article integrates the ontological and epistemological dimensions of knowledge and may be useful for knowledge management in organizations.
Online Disintermediation: Differences in the Behavior of Traditional Retailers in Adopting E‐Commerce
Authors: Andonova Veneta
Published: November 2014

This paper builds a theoretical argument of how the Internet increases the scope for disintermediation and analyzes the changes in the structure of transaction costs in the case of retailing. The paper treats the Internet as a low‐cost selling technology that needs substantial customers acceptance and a specific business model in order to be a viable alternative to traditional retailing. The proposed model predicts that different types of traditional retailers follow different strategies with respect to e‐commerce depending on their pre‐Internet market positioning. These conclusions are supported by empirical evidence from the adoption strategies, followed by a sample of well‐established U.S.‐based retailers. This study shows that retailers whose traditional selling technology is best approximated by e‐commerce are more likely to be among the first to reap the benefits of low‐cost online distribution.
The Influence of Personal Values on Feedback‐Seeking Behaviors
Authors: Brutus Stéphane , Cabrera Elizabeth F.
Published: November 2014

This study investigates the relationship between personal values and feedback‐seeking behaviors. Feedbackseeking behaviors, or the way by which individuals in organizations actively seek information about their performance, has recently become an important research topic in the management literature. However, the large majority of this research has been conducted in the United States. This study aims to test the relationships between the personal values of a multinational sample and feedback‐seeking behaviors. An integrated set of hypotheses regarding the influence of values on feedback seeking are outlined and tested empirically using samples from Canada, China, Mexico, the Netherlands, Spain, and the United States. As predicted, results indicate that significant aspects of feedback seeking were related to personal values. The perceived cost of feedback seeking, the clarity of the feedback from others, and the use of feedback‐seeking behaviors were all linked to personal values. The study also uncovered substantial variations in feedback‐seeking behaviors across nations. The implications of these findings for research on feedback‐seeking behaviors and for feedback practices are discussed.
Competition for External Resources, Entry Order, and the Stock Market Reaction to Alliances and Acquisitions
Authors: Sánchez‐Lorda Pablo , García‐Canal Esteban
Published: November 2014

We analyze how entry order in a new field influences the stock market reaction to strategic alliances and acquisitions aimed at expanding firm boundaries. We argue that alliances would be more valued by investors at the early stages of a process of convergence between two markets, whereas acquisitions would be more valued in the later stages. Using a sample of alliances and acquisitions carried out by European telecom firms, our hypotheses have been confirmed.
The effect of up‐armoring of the high‐mobility multi‐purpose wheeled vehicle (HMMWV) on the off‐road vehicle performance
Authors: Grujicic M. , Marvi H. , Arakere G. , Bell W.C. , Haque I.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

A parallel finite‐element/multi‐body‐dynamics investigation is carried out of the effect of up‐armoring on the off‐road performance of a prototypical high‐mobility multipurpose‐wheeled vehicle (HMMWV). The paper seeks to investigate the up‐armoring effect on the vehicle performance under the following off‐road maneuvers: straight‐line flatland braking; straight‐line off‐angle downhill braking; and sharp left turn.

Design/methodology/approach

For each of the above‐mentioned maneuvers, the appropriate vehicle‐performance criteria are identified and the parameters used to quantify these criteria are defined and assessed. The ability of a computationally efficient multi‐body dynamics approach when combined with a detailed model for tire/soil interactions to yield results qualitatively and quantitatively consistent with their computational counterparts obtained using computationally quite costly finite element analyses is assessed.

Findings

The computational results obtained clearly reveal the compromises in vehicle off‐road performance caused by the up‐armoring employ to improve vehicle blast and ballistic protection performance/survivability. The results obtained are also analyzed and explained in terms of general field‐test observations in order to judge physical soundness and fidelity of the present computational approaches.

Originality/value

The paper offers insights into the effects of up‐armoring of the HMMWV on off‐road vehicle performance.
Failure analysis of heat treated HSLA wheel bolt steels
Authors: Nazari Ali , Riahi Shadi
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The aims of this study is to analyze failure of two types of high‐strength low‐alloy (HSLA) steels which are used in wheel bolts 10.9 grade, boron steel and chromium‐molybdenum steel, before and after heat treatment.

Design/methodology/approach

The optimum heat treatment to obtain the best tensile behavior was determined and Charpy impact and Rockwell hardness tests were performed on the two steel types before and after the optimum heat treating.

Findings

Fractographic studies show a ductile fracture for heat‐treated boron steel while indicate a semi‐brittle fracture for heat‐treated chromium‐molybdenum steel. Formation of a small boron carbide amount during heat treating of boron steel results in increment the bolt's tensile strength while the ductility did not changed significantly. In the other hand, formation of chromium and molybdenum carbides during heat treating of chromium‐molybdenum steel increased the bolt's tensile strength with a considerable reduction in the final ductility.

Originality/value

This paper evaluates failure analysis of HSLA wheel bolt steels and compares their microstructure before and after the loading regime.
Wroe Alderson's Marketing Theory Seminar: an experiment in higher education (1951‐1965)
Authors: McGarry E.D.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the founding and history of the Marketing Theory Seminar, often called Wroe Alderson's Seminar.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper offers personal reflections and historical narrative.

Findings

The Marketing Theory Seminar was considered by Wroe Alderson to be the crowning achievement of his career. This paper was presented at the time of Alderson's death in 1965 to memorialize his work on the Seminar. It documents the key participants and themes of the Seminars from their inception in 1951 through 1962.

Originality/value

This paper was presented at the Theory Seminar in 1965 by one of its founding organizers, Edmund McGarry, and has never been published. Copyright is held by the estate of the author. While we have been unable to contact any such persons, we have published the article with a view to bringing this important document to a wider audience. We welcome any communication from the holders of McGarry's estate.
The way back: a reasoned and data based approach to increasing community access for sex offenders during and post treatment
Authors: Stevenson Brandie , Lynn Luke , Miller Katelyn , Hingsburger Dave
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Community‐based treatment programmes serving people with learning/intellectual disabilities face the problem of deciding how and when and under what conditions those in treatment will be able to independently access the community. Given the fact that people with disabilities have difficulties in generalization, knowing that they can practice skills in therapeutic sessions does not mean that they will be able to use these skills in real life situations. A Community Trust programme was first described theoretically in 1996 and this paper aims to present how that programme will work in practice.

Design/methodology/approach

From the moment treatment begins, data is collected with an eye to the future wherein individuals will be able to access the community and wherein agencies and therapists will be able to make decisions on that access, based on data not opinion. Two case examples demonstrate the principles of the trust programme.

Findings

Community trust for individuals who have engaged in serious, dangerous, or criminal behaviours is a serious issue and therefore must be a well thought out process. It also needs to be data based and decisions must be made not on “opinion” but on objective measures.

Originality/value

The paper demonstrates how community‐based treatment programmes, such as the example considered, give individuals “real life” opportunities to practice skills and thus transfer what is learned in therapeutic sessions to practical application.
Peer support – a personal journey
Authors: Porter Andy
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The paper seeks to discuss the author's experience of peer support.

Design/methodology/approach

The author provides an account of the introduction of specialist training for potential peer support workers within an NHS Trust.

Findings

The paper finds that training should not be provided unless it is known that jobs as peer support specialists can be created for people to move into.

Originality/value

It is important to recognise that what is now being called intentional peer support is a new professional development that has the potential to transform services if people are brave enough to take the plunge.
British Library Progress in War‐time: Further Comments
Authors: L.R.
Published: November 2014

The following are some further comments dealing with the British library position in war‐time, and particularly in places that have suffered from bombing and from the dispersal of population.
Library Education: a Symposium
Authors: L.R.
Published: November 2014

THIS symposium was arranged far in advance of the Special General Meeting of the Library Association held on 21st June, but it will be agreed that the opinions expressed in the symposium are as varied, as critical, and as constructive as those made by the many speakers at the Special General Meeting. It may be taken therefore that they are fairly representative.
What Should A Company's Objectives Be?
Authors: Andrews Grenville S.
Published: November 2014

Successful management practice is, to many, an area of mystery. The incredible complexity involved in successful decision making is too often taken for granted. Kotler, a leading authority in the marketing field, has described his discipline as follows:
The grocery price war
Authors: Beaumont J.A. , Lambert G.
Published: November 2014

Is the price war in grocery a crisis which will eventually be overcome so that the grocery trade may revert to its previous state of higher margins and comfortable trading? The authors of this special feature argue that this is not the case; they see the price war as a symptom of more fundamental change inherent in the trade. What of the future? Growth will continue to be led by multiples and larger co‐ops, and this is likely to put significant pressure on the multiple sector itself. Large store operation will ensure the continuation of price competition, and there will be no competition between superstores at a local level. Moves into non‐grocery lines will continue. And there will, inevitably, be casualties. But there may be more fundamental changes. With the widening of the product mix into non‐food, some grocery operators might find themselves in the role of department store and variety chain. And there will very probably be more of the convenience 7–11 type store with its combination of basic grocery lines with CTN and toiletries.
FACILITIES LOCATION: A BALANCED APPROACH
Authors: Kolind MSc Lars
Published: November 2014

This paper, taken from the Oyez/IBC conference held in London last year, “The Computer in Road Transport Planning”, takes a detailed and practical look at computer models and their contribution to the practical planning exercise.
Estimating the Minimum Risk Maturity Gap: Some Evidence from the Savings and Loan Industry
Authors: McNulty James E. , Morgan George E. , Ruff Craig K. , Smith Stephen D.
Published: November 2014

The common view of many regulators and practitioners is that the minimum risk maturity gap is equal to zero. However, because of the interest sensitivity of such non‐gap items as the average spread between asset and liability rates, lending activity, fee income and prepayments, the minimum risk gap could be significantly different from zero. We formulate and test a model for a sample of four hundred and twenty six thrift institutions. The results strongly suggest that the minimum risk maturity gap is positive for the average firm in the sample and that there is substantial cross‐sectional variability in the ratio of the minimum risk gap to assets. This suggests that attempts to regulate interest rate risk using a uniform gap as a benchmark are misdirected. Finally, we provide some evidence that there is, in fact, a positive cross‐sectional relationship between measured maturity gap positions and our estimates of the minimum risk maturity gap.
The Effect of Regulatory Change on Pension Funding Determinants
Authors: Manzi Jeffrey A. , Curcio Richard J.
Published: November 2014

Pension theory suggests and empirical tests indicate that optimal funding levels for defined benefit plans are determined on the basis of risk, taxes, and capital availability. This study examines whether federal pension and tax legislation enacted in 1986 and 1987 significantly altered the role of risk, taxes, and capital availability as determinants of corporate pension funding policy. Regression tests relating funding levels to these variables were conducted on a sample of pension plans, separately, for each of the reporting years, 1985 (before enactment of the legislation) and 1989 (after enactment of the legislation). Pension risk and tax exposure variables, significant in explaining funding levels in 1985, were not significant in 1989. Pension risk and tax factors under this new regime play a significantly diminished role, if any, in determining funding level policy for defined benefit plans. Evidence is provided that current pension funding is dependent upon the variability of common equity returns, and thus indicate that the pension funding decision is made in the same context as any other capital allocation decision.
Product Liability : A Global Problem
Authors: Howells Geraint G.
Published: November 2014

The four sections to this article have distinct but inter‐related objectives. Part I introduces the concepts, problems and tensions central to an understanding of the product liability debate. These issues recur throughout the article. Part II outlines the development of product liability law in Europe and assesses the impact of the European Directive on Product Liability. The “product liability crisis” in the United States is discussed in Part III, which looks at the law's development and proposals for reform. In Part IV the United States and European positions are compared and the case is made out for a global uniform product liability law which recognises the social responsibility of the producer towards those injured by his products.
OFFICE AUTOMATION, OCCUPATIONAL STRESS AND HEALTH
Authors: Amick Benjamin C. , Östberg Olov
Published: November 2014

This paper reviews research examining how the use of new office technologies can contribute to the risk of stress‐related health changes. Looking to the future of office work, the potential stressors associated with expert systems are discussed and the conditional nature of stress demonstrated.
UK Solicitors
Authors: Datamonitor
Published: November 2014

Intellectual property, EC work, professional negligence and banking are the most attractive practice areas for solicitors in 1992. Some of the top firms, however, are doing far better than others in these areas according to a recent study published by strategic consultants Datamonitor.
Enhancing Executive Health
Authors: Cal Dennis , Kleiner Brian H. , Brophy Theodore , Boone Pickens T. , Seigal Morris T. , Schreyer William , Oreffice Paul , Frist Thomas
Published: November 2014

The general opinion is that as executives advance into the '90s, there will be a smaller number of executives with larger responsibilities (Braham, 1988). These changes will demand executives to be healthier physically, mentally, and emotionally (Braham, 1988).
AN EMPIRICAL STUDY OF ECONOMIES OF SCOPE: THE CASE OF AIR CARRIERS
Authors: LEGGETTE JAMES A. , KILLINGSWORTH BRENDA
Published: November 2014

Recently, theoretical economics has recognized something which the business person has known for a long time, that is “the world of single product firms with U‐shaped average cost curves is simply not the world of reality.” Key to this newly emerging multiproduct framework is the concept of economies of scope.
Research on the Mechanism of Thermal Fatigue in Near‐eutectic Pb‐Sn Solders
Authors: Morris J.W. , Grivas D. , Tribula D. , Summers T. , Frear D.
Published: November 2014

This paper discusses the microstructures of solder joints and the mechanism of thermal fatigue, which is an important source of failure in electronic devices. The solder joints studied were near‐eutectic Pb‐Sn solder contacts on copper. The microstructure of the joints is described. While the fatigue life of near‐eutectic solder joints is strongly dependent on the operating conditions and on the microstructure of the joint, the metallurgical mechanisms of failure are surprisingly constant. When the cyclic load is in shear at temperatures above room temperature the shear strain is inhomogeneous, and induces a rapid coarsening of the eutectic microstructure that concentrates the deformation in well‐defined bands parallel to the joint interface. Fatigue cracks propagate along the Sn‐Sn grain boundaries and join across the Pb‐rich regions to cause ultimate failure. The failure occurs through the bulk solder unless the joint is so thin that the intermetallic layer at the interface is a significant fraction of the joint thickness, in which case failure may be accelerated by cracking through the intermetallic layer. The coarsening and subsequent failure are influenced more strongly by the number of thermal cycles than by the time of exposure to high temperature, at least for hold times up to one hour. Thermal fatigue in tension does not cause well‐defined coarsened bands, but often leads to rapid failure through cracking of the brittle intermetallic layer. Implications are drawn for the design of accelerated fatigue tests and the development of new solders with exceptional fatigue resistance.
Comment
Authors: URQUHART DJ , HUDSON WS , SCOTT AD , CHASE BRIAN , SULLIVAN RENE , FLETCHER JOHN , JFWB
Published: November 2014

I AM BECOMING used to the modern convention which graces any hotchpotch of arrangements with the term ‘system’. Nevertheless I was surprised to find (NLW p53) Abraham Silence wondering how ‘the old system might have operated had it received an injection of the millions of pounds which have been spent at Boston Spa’.
Liquid and gel permeation chromatographs
Authors: Ellis R.A.
Published: November 2014

Until recently liquid chromatography has been a somewhat neglected branch of science. However, the availability of precision equipment, and even complete instruments, has made possible liquid chromatography separations of a more advanced nature. For example, suitable detectors have been developed, and pumps are available which deliver accurate volumes of solvent under pressure.
Aspects of liquid chromatography
Authors: Pusey D.F.G.
Published: November 2014

In view of the changes which have taken place in this field in recent years, it is perhaps a suitable time to review the fundamentals of the subject, in order that the significance of recent developments might not be lost for the surface coatings analyst.
Recent progress in curing techniques
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

Faster, more automated means for curing coatings as well as techniques in which the monomer polymerises to the polymer during curing readily captured the paint industry's imagination. Such concepts spell greater efficiency, greater automation and, in the long run, lower costs and greater profitability. Electron beam curing and ultra‐violet curing have emerged as the two most formidable contenders in this new area. Both methods make possible curing at near ambient temperature and both rely on high energy radiation — a highly effective form of energy for chemical reactions.
Some new proprietary products
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

Nineteen hundred and seventy‐three saw the introduction of a variety of new proprietary products resulting, for the most part, from technology which is well familiar to the paint industry. The continued introduction of proprietary products is one measure of the health of the industry. There are, of course, many other yardsticks but on this basis it is safe to say that the industry is a vigorous one and is trying continually to achieve improvements which will make its products more useful and more functional.
Coatings update What's new?
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

The coatings industry is in large measure a function of the world around it. Advances in related disciplines are scrutinised carefully by coatings chemists because of the ramifications that these new discoveries and inventions may have if applied directly to the coatings area. This is certainly true relative to new resins and other raw materials. It applies also to the development of new energy forms which reflect themselves in new ways to cure coatings. Accordingly, some of these newer advances which could eventually have important ramifications in the coatings industry will be reviewed here.
Coatings update: electrocoating
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

Electrocoating paints enjoyed a sales volume of $26 million in 1974 and it was predicted that this would double by 1978 Chemical & Engineering News [52, August 26 (1974) p. 10]. The article describes some of the advantages of electrocoating including the fact that paint particles penetrate cracks and flaws in the metal because of electrical attraction. With dipping or spraying, on the other hand, the paint tends to bridge these areas rather than to duplicate the precise profile of the subtrate. Another advantage of the electrocoating process is its ability to achieve a coating of uniform thickness for this is controlled by the extent of the charge of the object being coated. Efficiency of the process is demonstrated by the fact that more than 95% of both the resin and the pigment are utilized as compared with 80% for other dip procedures and as little as 50% for spray coating methods. Two of the disadvantages described include the fact that it can be used only on electrical conductors such as metal and that it shares in common with other dip procedures considerable difficulty and expense when it comes to colour changes.
Water—thinable epoxy resin coatings
Authors: Ciba‐Geigy
Published: November 2014

Ciba‐Geigy have recently developed a new water‐thinnable epoxy for water formulates, XD 823, which is used in conjunction with one of two curing agents.
Coatings update: Space age and atomic coatings
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

The point has been made that space exploration would probably not have been possible had it not been for surface coatings in one form or another. The most important of these coatings are the so‐called ablative thermal barriers and the thermal‐control surface coatings. The former are necessary to aid in the re‐entry of the vehicle, for at this point tremendous heat is generated by friction. The coating sacrifices itself and, in so doing, utilizes the heat and prevents it from gaining access to the interior of the vehicle. The thermal‐control coatings serve to maintain a constant temperature within the vehicle.
Recent applications of gel permeation chromatography in the paint industry
Authors: Ellis R.A.
Published: November 2014

The interaction between formaldehyde and urea or thiourea has been reported by Richard and Gourdenne who used G.P.C. columns packed with reticular polystyrene gel of pore sizes 3×104, 3×103, 103, 500, 200, 100, 60 and 60 A and which were eluted with N, N‐dimethylformamide at 50°C. These authors prepared precursors such as monomethylolurea and N, N‐dimethylolurea in aqueous base at 4°C which prevented their autocondensation. These materials were positively identified by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, but they were not resolved from one another nor from urea itself on the G.P.C. columns on account of the fact that the strong solvation by the eluent dimethyl‐formamide was not affected by the substitution of one or two methylol groups into the urea molecule. Using an acid solution at room temperature, it was found that the reaction between formaldehyde and urea or disubstituted urea produced substances such as methylene diurea and methylene di (N, N‐dimethylurea) which, respectively, eluted before and after urea itself. When urea or thiourea was reacted with formaldehyde at a molar ratio of 1:1.8 in a 30% aqueous solution of pH 8 at 95°C, it was shown by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy that the individual urea residues were linked by ether bridges only and that methylenic linkages were totally absent. The degree of cross‐linking of the products was expressed in terms of the ratio of the number of protons included in these bridges to the total number of protons in the various methylene groups as determined by nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Five samples were taken from such a reaction between urea and formaldehyde. Their G.P.C. curves were obtained and they were shown to display a wider molecular size distribution as the calculated degree of cross‐linking increased. The initial sample was found to be comprised of a mixture of mono‐ and dimethylolurea, but the samples taken later on during the reaction were more highly polymerised and could not be assigned individual molecular structures. A similar conclusion was reached using a mixture of thiourea and formaldehyde in the preparation of a resin.
Coatings update: chlorinated rubber technology
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

The most important of the chlorinated resins used by the paint industry is chlorinated rubber. The product frequently used as a solvent solution contains about 65% chlorine. Films form by evaporation of solvent and these generally have outstanding resistance to weathering, to many chemicals including acids, alkalis, oxidizing agents, and to both fresh and sea water. Chlorinated rubber paints, accordingly, are used for many maintenance situations including swimming pools, masonry and steel surfaces in manufacturing plants, and in a variety of other applications where resistance, protection and long life are important.
Coatings update: review articles on maintenance coatings
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

A recent survey on maintenance paints compiled jointly by Smith, Stanley & Co., Inc. and the American Paint Journal Company has been re‐viewed in the American Painting Contractor [54, March (1977) IMP Sec. p. 27]. This study highlights the increase in the use of water‐borne paints for maintenance applications. This trend has been motivated by environmental regulations and is possible because of the development of improved coating systems. According to the study, there are nine subsections or “end‐use markets” for maintenance paints. The largest of these is manufacturing plants and equipment. This fragmented market is composed of over 300,000 establishments and is serviced by 700 maintenance paint formulations. Other end use markets are represented by public utilities, water processing areas such as sewage disposal plants, highways, ships, off‐shore oil riggings and a non‐manufacturing segment which includes hospitals, schools and office buildings. This latter sector is largely serviced by water‐borne paints. Another important trend in the maintenance painting industry is the switch to rollers from brushes.
Coatings update: new proprietary products Part 2
Authors: AMERICUS
Published: November 2014

An interesting new marine coating developed in Finland is particularly useful for ice‐going vessels such as ferries which operate in cold areas and ice‐breakers. Over 30 Finnish vessels have been coated with this material which is called Inerta 160 and which was developed by Teknos‐Maalit. The coating has been licensed to International Marine Coatings and is now being tested by the U.S. Coast Guard on two ice‐breakers. Additionally the coating is said to be useful for the protection of nuclear and conventional power plants, for equipment in the chemical process industry, and on transport vehicles where there is high mechanical wear.
A review of gel permeation chromatography: Part I
Authors: Ellis R.A.
Published: November 2014

Until comparatively recently, in the practice of gel permeation chromatography it has been customary to use porous gel beads that have an average diameter in the range between 75 and 100 microns, and which are packed into columns up to 4ft long and having an inside diameter of approximately 0.3in, in order to achieve a separation. A working pressure in the region of 40 psi is normal for each of these columns when eluted with solvents such as toluene or tetrahydrofuran (THF) at ambient temperature. Therefore, a pump that is capable of producing a steady pulseless flow at around 300 psi is sufficient to meet the working requirements of a combination of up to seven such GPC columns. At the customary flow rate of 1cm3 min‐1 a chromatograph equipped as described would produce a GPC scan of whole polymer in about 3 hours.
Coatings update: Some new proprietary products
Authors: Americus
Published: November 2014

Many new industrial coatings have been introduced aimed at decreasing energy usage. These coatings take advantage of chemical reactions which lead to crosslinking at room or slightly elevated temperatures. One such product is “Protech G” (Progress Paint Manufacturing Co., Inc. (P.O. Box 3588, Louisville, KY 40201). This coating dries in fifteen minutes at 150°F which means that conventional line speeds can normally be retained. The finish is described as “appliance quality” and the coatings are available in numerous colours and varying degrees of gloss. The coating is said to cost less than two‐package urethanes, although it is a two‐component material demonstrating a long pot life. It is non‐toxic, uses conventional thinner systems, and is easily applied.