bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proposal of electromagnetic spherical actuator with 3‐DOF
Authors: Ikejiri Shohei , Hirata Katsuhiro , Maeda Shuhei
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose a new electromagnetic spherical actuator with three‐degree‐of‐freedom. Multi‐degree‐of‐freedom actuators which can be operated in arbitrary axis come to attract attention because of the solution for efficiency, weight, size, and so on. Particularly, spherical actuators are studied as the application to the joints and eyeballs for robots because they can be freely rotated in every axis direction.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper proposes a new electromagnetic spherical actuator with three‐degree‐of‐freedom in rotation, and the torque characteristics of the actuator are computed by the 3D finite element method (FEM). The validity of the computation is confirmed through the measurement of a prototype.

Findings

It is found that this actuator realized the high torque of more than 1.0 Nm in every axis circumference.

Originality/value

A new spherical three‐degree‐of‐freedom actuator is proposed. The torque characteristics of the improved model are calculated employing the 3D FEM. The validity of the analysis is verified through the comparison with the measured results of the prototype. Furthermore, the improved model is proposed to increase the torque, and the effectiveness of the model is confirmed.
Simplified models including eddy currents for laminated structures
Authors: Hihat Nabil , Komęza Krzysztof , Napieralska‐Juszczak Ewa , Lecointe Jean‐Philippe , Niewierowicz Tadeusz
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a comparative analysis concerning the influence of eddy currents on the distribution of the magnetic flux density in the laminated anisotropic structures.

Design/methodology/approach

The influence of the magnetic flux normal to the lamination surface is particularly analysed. Several models containing internal air gaps and overlapping are tested. For every structure, the eddy currents are first taken into account and then, they are neglected. At last, the 3D simulation of the anisotropic conductivity permits to analyse separately the longitudinal and normal flux in the structure and the eddy currents induced by those fluxes.

Findings

The study leads to a more realistic numerical model with conducting laminations. The results show that the normal flux does not turn at once on lamination. The normal and longitudinal fluxes induce eddy currents which modify the flux distribution in the laminated structure.

Practical implications

The results of the presented simulations make it possible to elaborate a more realistic numerical model of homogenized characteristics taking into account eddy currents.

Originality/value

The eddy currents induced by the fluxes modifies the field distribution in the structure and should be taken into account. The internal air‐gaps higher than 0.1 mm have an influence on the field distribution; the isolation between the laminations of 0.01 mm has a smaller but not negligible effect on the magnetic flux. The direction of the normal flux from one sheet to another one does not change immediately after the entrance of the lamination, the transition is progressive.
Vibration analysis of small power transformer
Authors: Kubiak Witold , Witczak Pawel
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a methodology of identification and calculating vibrations of power transformers caused by magnetostriction.

Design/methodology/approach

All calculations are based on finite element approach. Electromagnetic model uses 2D time stepping solution in nonlinear continuum of the core accompanied with equivalent representation of overlapping areas. Structural model is 3D with special representation for laminated core limbs. Theoretical results are compared with experimental ones obtained as operational deflection shapes from vibration measurements.

Findings

Tensor representation of magnetostriction stress enables calculation of equivalent forces acting on arbitrary chosen parts of laminated core. These forces converted into amplitude and phase of Fourier spectrum and introduced into structural model make possible to get displacement field with reasonable accuracy.

Research limitations/implications

Assumption of magnetic isotropy of the transformer core is the main simplification during analysis.

Practical implications

It was proved that small deformation of the core structure originated from assembly technology may be the reason of substantial growth of the vibration level.

Originality/value

This paper provides a step‐by‐step explanation of how to get core vibration starting from magnetic field distribution.
Opinion piece – electronic records: now and then
Authors: Barry Rick
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the author's opinions on notable electronic records achievements over the past two decades in the USA and current issues and views on the future.

Design/methodology/approach

This is an essay that is based on the author's 50 years in the field of information management, technology management, and records management as a researcher, manager, and consultant. It reviews different technologies used by the typically four generations of workers collaborating in the workplace at the same time, and what this portends for electronic recordkeeping.

Findings

Information managers, archivists, and records managers can gain insights into current and future issues managing electronic records by becoming good observers of changing technologies and their uses by generations soon to enter the workplace. Suggested options for addressing some of the more critical issues are offered, including approaches to technological designs for recordkeeping and a broader view of the potential for better integration of cultural information of all kinds in archives, libraries and museums, as a means of better serving researchers and society.

Originality/value

Evolving technologies and trends in their social usage have presented and will continue to present newer platforms for both personal and organizational work patterns, communications and record making. Modern information technologies and related analytical practices also offer opportunities for addressing some of the long‐standing issues encountered in planning and implementing electronic records systems in such an ever‐changing business world. Recent recordkeeping professionals can benefit from sharing experiences and stories in identifying and making use of such opportunities to move forward from a planning environment to an enterprise implementation environment.
Information governance: information security and access within a UK context
Authors: Lomas Elizabeth
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that records management frameworks need to be risk based, flexible and aligned to wider information management objectives. The paper outlines some of the changes, challenges and opportunities now and on the horizon for records managers. The paper argues that through embedding the international information security standard ISO 27001 in conjunction with the records management standard ISO 15489, holistic information governance strategies will be delivered that are responsive to change.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper provides a discussion on the challenges facing records and information management professionals and suggests that ISO 27001 provides some of the systems' solutions lacking from ISO 15489.

Findings

The alignment of ISO 27001 to ISO 15489 strengthens the delivery of existing records management systems and its drivers. This is critical to build strong information governance programmes, which enable risks to be assessed in an ever‐changing information management world.

Practical implications

Successful implementation of records management requires alignment with wider information standards and strategies to deliver holistic information management and governance.

Originality/value

This research will assist in promoting best practice in records management and information governance.
Current state of play: records management and the cloud
Authors: Stuart Katharine , Bromage David
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe the current environment of, and challenges for, managing and storing records and information in “the cloud”.

Design/methodology/approach

The approach was based on the authors' experience of the challenges facing records management gained through the authors' interaction with public and private organisations. Observations of the way the web has changed the conduct of business and what using “the cloud” to store information means for records management. Included is some practical advice on how records managers can cope with the risk associated from using “the cloud”.

Findings

The key findings highlight that as organisations are changing the way they conduct business by including “web 2.0” and “the cloud” into their way of working, records management needs to be aware of the risks. The incorporation of “the cloud” into the way organisations conduct business, should not be based on a technological decision, but should be based on a decision examining risk to an organisation's information.

Originality/value

This paper is beneficial in raising awareness of the potential risks and benefits associated with managing and storing information online, specifically in “the cloud”. However, this paper aims to not dissaude organisations in their use of web technologies, but to emphasise the involvement needed by records managers in the formation of policies, education and risk analysis for any system or space designed to manage or store information and records.
Distribution systems, loyalty and performance
Authors: Su Chen Mei , Lai Gene C.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the influence of distribution systems and customer loyalty on firm performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Efficiency scores and profitability are used as the proxies for performance. The data envelopment analysis approach is used to calculate efficiency scores. The sample is from the Taiwanese life insurance industry.

Findings

The results suggest that a multiple distribution channel strategy performs worse than a single distribution channel strategy in terms of efficiency and profitability. It is also found that agent turnover rate is negatively related to technical efficiency, cost efficiency, and profitability. The evidence also suggests that insurers with higher customer loyalty perform better than insurers with lower customer loyalty.

Originality/value

The paper's results can assist insurers to make decisions on distribution channels and improve agent turnover rate and customer loyalty.
Does board governance improve the quality of accounting earnings?
Authors: Iyengar Raghavan J. , Land Judy , Zampelli Ernest M.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the contention that a strengthening of corporate governance mechanisms would result in the improved relevance and reliability of financial statements.

Design/methodology/approach

Using pooled ordinary least squares regression, the paper analyse the quality of reported earnings for a sample of firms over the 1998‐2002 time period.

Findings

The findings show negative and statistically significant associations between reported earnings quality and the proportion of CEO incentive pay and firm's growth opportunities. It is also found that earnings quality is positively and significantly related to the existence of an orderly CEO transition process. However, board independence does not seem to be associated with earnings quality.

Research limitations/implications

Since the sample of firms is from the 1998 to 2002 period, consistent with the paper's motivation, the results may not generalize to the more recent time period.

Practical implications

The results provide support for the argument that the current structure of executive pay does adversely impact the quality of reported earnings and hence provides a rationale for closer scrutiny of executive pay by regulatory bodies. Additionally, the findings suggest that the emphasis on board independence as an effective monitoring device may be misplaced.

Originality/value

Unlike prior studies, the paper's hypotheses are derived from an explicit agency theoretic optimization model of managerial decision making. The paper uses the Ball and Shivakumar model for estimating abnormal accruals unlike previous analyses that relied more heavily on the Jones model. The paper also adds to past studies of the relationship between corporate governance and earnings quality and the role of executive compensation.
Analyst following and corporate governance: emerging‐market evidence
Authors: Yu Minna
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the association of analyst following with the strength of overall firm‐specific corporate governance (CG) in an emerging‐market setting.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses empirical methodology to test the hypothesis with a sample of 753 emerging‐market companies over 2001 and 2002.

Findings

It is found that the effectiveness of CG has a positive impact on the level of analyst following. Further analyses indicate that this positive relation is concentrated in the countries with a common law tradition.

Research limitations/implications

This paper joins prior research by providing evidence on the information intermediary role of financial analysts. It also provides supporting evidence on analysts' monitoring role in common law countries of emerging markets.

Practical implications

The findings of this paper have implications for the decision making of managers and investors. By improving CG at the firm level, companies can significantly improve their information environments. The findings of this paper also have important implications for standard setters and regulators in emerging economies by shedding light on the importance of requesting firms to have good CG mechanisms in place, particularly in countries with relatively strong investor protection.

Originality/value

Although prior research has documented the positive effect of country‐level investor protection or a single aspect of firm‐level CG on analyst following, it is unknown whether the level of analyst following is associated with the quality of firm‐specific CG. This paper fills in this research gap by empirically investigating this relation.
Australian evidence on the accuracy of analysts' expectations
Authors: Chen Xiaomeng
Published: July 2010

Purpose

This paper aims to use Australian analysts' forecast data to compare the relative accuracy of consensus and the most recent forecast in the month before the earnings announcement.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross‐sectional regression is used on a sample of 4,358 company‐year observations of annual analyst forecasts to examine whether the number of analysts following and the timeliness of an individual analyst's forecast is more strongly associated with the superior forecast measure.

Findings

The results suggest that whilst in the late 1980s the most recent forecast was more accurate than the consensus, since the early 1990s the accuracy of the consensus forecast has outperformed the most recent forecast in 15 out of 17 years, and the differences are significant for nine out of 15 years. The forecasting superiority of the consensus can be attributed to the aggregating value of the consensus outweighing the small timing advantage of the most recent forecast over the short forecast horizon examined in this paper.

Research limitations/implications

Given the consistent use of analysts' forecasts as proxies for expected earnings in Australian research, this paper provides insights to what extent the expected level of forecast accuracy is realised and the reasons for the greater accuracy in the superior forecast measure.

Practical implications

The findings confirm market practitioners' views that the consensus forecast is a better measure of the market's earnings expectations.

Originality/value

This paper provides direct evidence of the accuracy of alternative forecast measures and the importance of diversifying idiosyncratic individual error across analyst forecasts.
A review of state‐of‐the‐art large‐sized foam cutting rapid prototyping and manufacturing technologies
Authors: Brooks Hadley , Aitchison David
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Current additive rapid prototyping (RP) technologies fail to efficiently produce objects greater than 0.5 m3 due to restrictions in build size, build time and cost. A need exists to develop RP and manufacturing technologies capable of producing large objects in a rapid manner directly from computer‐aided design data. Foam cutting RP is a relatively new technology capable of producing large complex objects using inexpensive materials. The purpose of this paper is to describe nine such technologies that have been developed or are currently being developed at institutions around the world. The relative merits of each system are discussed. Recommendations are given with the aim of enhancing the performance of existing and future foam cutting RP systems.

Design/methodology/approach

The review is based on an extensive literature review covering academic publications, company documents and web site information.

Findings

The paper provides insights into the different machine configurations and cutting strategies. The most successful machines and cutting strategies are identified.

Research limitations/implications

Most of the foam cutting RP systems described have not been developed to the commercial level, thus a benchmark study directly comparing the nine systems was not possible.

Originality/value

This paper provides the first overview of foam cutting RP technology, a field which is over a decade old. The information contained in this paper will help improve future developments in foam cutting RP systems.
Geometric feedback control of discrete‐deposition SFF systems
Authors: Cohen Daniel L. , Lipson Hod
Published: July 2010

Purpose

New applications of solid freeform fabrication (SFF) are arising, such as functional rapid prototyping andin situfabrication, which push SFF to its limits in terms of geometrical fidelity due to the applications' inherent process uncertainties. Current closed‐loop feedback control schemes monitor and manipulate SFF techniques at the process level, e.g. envelope temperature, feed rate. “Closing the loop” on the process level, instead of the overall part geometry level, leads to limitations in the types of errors that can be detected and corrected. The purpose of this paper is to propose a technique called greedy geometric feedback (GGF) control which “closes the loop” on the overall part geometry level.

Design/methodology/approach

The overall part geometry is monitored throughout the print and, using a greedy algorithm, real‐time decisions are made to serially determine the locations of subsequent droplets, i.e. overall part geometry is directly manipulated. A computer simulator and a physical experimental platform were developed to compare the performance of GGF to an open‐loop control scheme. Root mean square surface height errors were measured under controlled uncertainties in droplet height, droplet radius of curvature, droplet positioning and mid‐print part deformations.

Findings

The GGF technique outperformed open‐loop control under process uncertainties in droplet shape, droplet placement and mid‐print part deformations. The disparity between performances is dependant on the nature and extent of the imposed process uncertainties.

Practical implications

Future research will focus on improving the performance of GGF for specific cases by designing more complex greedy algorithmic scoring heuristics. Also, the technique will be generalized beyond heightmap representations of 3D spaces.

Originality/value

The GGF technique is the first to “close the loop” on the overall part geometry level. GGF, therefore, can compensate for a broader range of errors than existing closed‐loop feedback control schemes. Also, since the technique only requires the real‐time update of a very limited set of heights, the technique is computationally inexpensive and widely applicable. By developing a closed‐loop feedback scheme that addressed part geometry‐level errors, SFF can be applied to more challengingin situfabrication scenarios with less conventional materials.
Understanding designer clothing purchases over the internet
Authors: Fogel Joshua , Schneider Mayer
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Studies for online designer clothing purchases and also online purchases of numerous types of designer clothing are so far unknown. This study seeks to analyze variables influencing intentions to purchase designer clothing online and also online purchases of different types of designer clothing over three months.

Design/methodology/approach

Cross‐sectional and longitudinal analyses were performed with linear and logistic regression (n=527). The theoretical framework was the Theory of Planned Behavior. Independent variables also included the Boredom Proneness Scale, and the Consumer Decision Making Styles Inventory. Clothing types were intimate apparel, underwear, swimwear, pants, jeans, skirts/dresses, T‐shirts, shoes, sneakers, sweaters, jackets/coats, socks, hosiery, and hats.

Findings

The cross‐sectional analysis for intentions substantiated the Theory of Planned Behavior. Boredom was associated with intentions and some of the specific types purchased. In the longitudinal analysis, increased internet information search was associated with purchases for all the specific clothing types. The most common purchases were T‐shirts, shoes, and skirts/dresses.

Research limitations/implications

Participants were allowed to interpret what was perceived as designer clothing.

Practical implications

As information search is associated with purchases of many types of designer clothing, companies should focus on increasing the likelihood of their web pages being searched. Useful strategies can include purchase of sponsored links and efforts to improve page rank.

Originality/value

This is the first study to analyze predictors for purchasing numerous specific types of designer clothing online. Also, it is believed to be the first longitudinal study to use the Theory of Planned Behavior as the framework to analyze online apparel purchases.
Evaluation of sizing provision among high street retailers and consumer buying practices of children's clothing in the UK
Authors: Tongue Michelle Ann , Otieno Rose , Diane Cassidy Tracy
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Since anthropometric dimensions vary during a lifetime, it is difficult to provide adequate sizing for all, especially growing, children. This paper aims to review children's sizing provision for girls aged 4‐8 years among four UK retailers (Adams, Debenhams, Marks & Spencer and Mothercare), an area of limited research.

Design/methodology/approach

Two research strategies were utilised: observational visits to retail stores (on sizing systems and environment) and face‐to‐face interviews with ten parents and five childrenswear garment technologists (on sizing of children's garments and fit issues).

Findings

UK retailers utilised various numerical size coding systems based on height, age and weight. Next, Asda George and Adams were the favourite shopping stores for children's wear. Parents were co‐shoppers with their children. While parents' key criteria for purchase were durability, fit, quality, price and washability, children's choice was based on colour, fashion and peer influence. Variation in sizing designation caused confusion. Parents have suggested varying lengths as a solution to accommodating different sizes; preferring a common system with age as key size code. Sizing inconsistency between brands and incomprehensible size codes are major factors in the creation of customer dissatisfaction with children's clothing. Providing ambient facilities for co‐shopping is vital.

Research limitations/implications

The children's fashion sector is important to children, parents and retailers. Parents are co‐shoppers with their children and have key criteria for selecting to shop in a store. Marketers should be aware of core needs: sizing provision, shopping environment and the dynamics of co‐shopping. Sizing systems should be relevant to avoid dissatisfaction and confusion. More research is needed focusing on larger and other samples; target markets and psychological needs for shopping.

Originality/value

The area of children's shopping for clothing in the UK has a limited literature. Key issues revolve around garment sizing, garment fit, co‐shopping and consumer satisfaction. This study contributes to filling the gap in knowledge.
Consumer value structures reflected in clothing advertisements
Authors: Ko Sunyoung , Norum Pamela , Hawley Jana M.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to construct consumer value structures for clothing.

Design/methodology/approach

Using content analysis, a total of 301 advertisements from the New Yorker and Esquire magazines are analyzed during one representative year out of each of the last four decades.

Findings

Consumer values reflected in clothing ads are identified as functional, social, emotional and epistemic. Functional value dominated throughout the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s, but showed a decreasing trend. By the 2000s, emotional value had overtaken functional value in emphasis. Consumer consequences and product attributes, which fell under each of the consumer values, are also revealed. Of all the consumer consequences, high quality was connected the most frequently with functional value. At the same time, high quality served as an intermediary qualifier for symbols of social status, a consequence of social value. Fabric was the attribute linked most frequently to functional and social consequences.

Practical implications

Clothing companies can use the values, consequences and attributes presented here to differentiate between values, to determine the most effective attributes to emphasize, and to target certain audiences for their marketing and advertising strategies.

Originality/value

The essential contribution of this paper is that this study reveals a hierarchical dimension to clothing value and is the first study which attempts to construct a means‐end chain through the content analysis of advertisements.
The certainty of uncertainty: risk management revisited
Authors: Richardson Jacques G.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to scan flagrant cases of uncertainty and hesitation in the conception of plans and strategy and to assess new results in risk management.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses outstanding examples, present and past (and some future), of both risk taking and risk aversion and their concrete consequences – whether action follows or is blocked by lack of certitude or perhaps confidence.

Findings

The paper shows that the wilful overcoming of missing assuredness may incur, in its turn, hazardous risk.

Originality/value

The paper illustrates the roles of knowledge, precautions wisely taken, and being willing or hesitating to risk the sometimes long shot.
An exploratory system dynamics model of strategic capabilities in manufacturing
Authors: Größler Andreas
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the dynamics of accumulation processes of strategic capabilities in manufacturing, i.e. cost, quality, delivery, and flexibility. By applying a dynamic view, concepts from the literature are tested and shortcomings are identified.

Design/methodology/approach

The analysis was conducted with the help of an exploratory system dynamics model that represented a hierarchy of these accumulative capabilities. The exploratory model was parameterized with empirical data from a large international survey of manufacturing plants.

Findings

The major finding of this paper is that results from a static analysis can be transferred into a dynamic model, which can be used to test allocation strategies of resources to strategic capabilities.

Practical implications

The practical implications concern the distribution of managerial attention on the four capabilities and the consequences of different distributions.

Originality/value

The value of this paper lies in the insights gained by the transformation of a verbal model into a quantified simulation model, and the learning resulting from simulation experiments.
Rapid manufacturing in the spare parts supply chain
Authors: Holmström Jan , Partanen Jouni , Tuomi Jukka , Walter Manfred
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to describe and evaluate the potential approaches to introduce rapid manufacturing (RM) in the spare parts supply chain.

Design/methodology/approach

Alternative conceptual designs for deploying RM technology in the spare parts supply chain were proposed. The potential benefits are illustrated for the aircraft industry. The general feasibility was discussed based on literature.

Findings

The potential supply chain benefits in terms of simultaneously improved service and reduced inventory makes the distributed deployment of RM very interesting for spare parts supply. However, considering the trade‐offs affecting deployment it is proposed that most feasible is centralized deployment by original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), or deployment close to the point of use by generalist service providers of RM.

Research limitations/implications

The limited part range that is currently possible to produce using the technology means that a RM‐based service supply chain is feasible only in very particular situations.

Practical implications

OEMs should include the consideration of RM in their long‐term service supply chain development.

Originality/value

The paper identifies two distinct approaches for deploying RM in the spare parts supply chain.
Equipment supplier/user collaboration in the process industries
Authors: Lager Thomas , Frishammar Johan
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide theoretical insight and practical guidance on how both process firms and equipment manufacturers can address the challenges posed by collaboration during the operational stage of the process technology/equipment life cycle.

Design/methodology/approach

Motives and driving forces for entering collaborative projects far from always converge, and while some projects require deep and long‐lasting relationships, others call for pure transactions and arms‐length relationships. The questions of why, when and how collaboration should take place and be organised and managed are addressed and discussed in the light of the literature on technology diffusion and technology transfer, and supplemented by ideas from industry professionals.

Findings

A tentative list of potential pros and cons has been compiled to serve as an embryo for further creation of a more complete set of expected outcomes with a view to developing a firm benchmarking instrument for establishing new collaborative relationships. Subsequently, a conceptual model of the full life‐cycle of process technology/equipment is developed to create a platform for determining collaboration intensity and success factors during different phases. Finally, a matrix with the dimensions “type of capability” and “expected performance improvements” is introduced as a tool for selection of different forms of collaboration.

Research limitations/implications

The main limitation is that so far this is only a theoretical framework, but as such it will serve as a new platform and a guide for further empirical studies of this important yet under‐researched area.

Originality/value

This area of technology and innovation management research for the process industries has not been addressed before in depth. The new framework can already be deployed by industry professionals in their efforts to improve inter‐company collaboration and technology transfer, but also as a means of avoiding unintended technology diffusion.
Quality improvement of a categorical response with weight effect consideration
Authors: Hsieh Kun‐Lin
Published: July 2010

Purpose

No methodology has been directly proposed to address the parameter optimization problem with weight effect on the categorical response. The aim of this paper is to propose a suitable procedure to address such a problem.

Design/methodology/approach

The computation of aggregation weight and neural network modeling technique were employed into forming the core architecture of the proposed approach. The consistency and difference of the weight effect between several experts or professionals can be included into the weight computation. The backpropagation neural network model is chosen to model the non‐linear relationship among the control factors, the probability, and the accumulated probability of categories for a qualitative response.

Findings

Weight effect for different categories of a qualitative response significantly exists in L/F manufacturing process. Including such weight effect into the L/F manufacturing analysis can achieve the parameter optimization and enhance their quality improvement.

Originality/value

This paper can be viewed as the first to address the parameter optimization problem for the categorical response with the weight effect consideration. The proposed approach can aid engineers making necessary decisions about quality improvement.
Analysis of e‐inclusion projects in Russia, Austria and Switzerland
Authors: Niehaves Björn , Plattfaut Ralf , Gorbacheva Elena , Vages Peter H.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The issue of digital divide is widely discussed in research as well as in practice. Today, especially senior citizens are excluded from the merits of using information and communication technologies (ICT). This paper aims to study municipal projects for an inclusive information society in Russia, Austria, and Switzerland.

Design/methodology/approach

In this paper 50 cities are selected from each country studied based on three variables. In each city, all age‐related e‐inclusion projects are analyzed to find commonalities and varieties.

Findings

Results show that in all countries the projects share several commonalities. However, project ideas are not shared internationally.

Research limitations/implications

The research is limited by the selection of countries and cities. Future research should compare the results of other countries.

Practical implications

Decision makers in municipalities should look for successful e‐inclusion projects in other areas, not only nationally but also internationally.

Originality/value

This paper presents a first comparative analysis of e‐inclusion projects in several European countries.
A simple probabilistic analysis of sensor data fluctuations in the real world
Authors: Hiramatsu Kaoru
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on sensor data fluctuations. Context‐aware applications in the real world adapt their behavior to contexts abstracted from real‐world situations sensed as physical quantities by heterogeneous and distributed sensors. Most of the adaptations are programmed as rules derived from human experience in making environments comfortable and efficient. Preparation of sufficient rules, however, is difficult because oversights and exceptional contexts are inevitable.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper, focuses on sensor data fluctuations and calculates the probabilities indicating the frequency of such fluctuations.

Findings

The results help to confirm the preset rules of the context‐aware applications and find previously unnoticed situations that the context‐aware applications should cope with.

Originality/value

The paper shows how this method is applied to log data captured in an office in order to evaluate the method's capabilities and consider the feasibility of abstracting the newly observed situations into rules.
An improved method of task context switching in OSEK operating system
Authors: Wu Zhaohui , Li Hong , Yang Guoqing , Gao Zhigang , Lv Pan
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to focus on the method to improve real‐time property of real‐time operating system (RTOS), one of the most essential problems in RTOS studies.

Design/methodology/approach

Improved task models are proposed based on the basic task and extended task models of OSEK operating system (OSEK OS). According to different task states, optimized scheduling algorithm was put forward. Some examples in a practical environment are described that illustrate the value of the method.

Findings

This method has been successfully implemented and evaluated in an OSEK compatible operating system, SmartOSEK OS. The time cost of context switching is decreased and the efficiency is enhanced.

Research limitations/implications

The improvement gained depends on the ratio of each strategy applied. In case the strategy D is applied too many times, the performance will be lead to a depressing result. For real‐time system, a long‐lived process that maybe increase the ratio of strategy D is not the optimal selection.

Originality/value

Dividing the ready state of task into intermediate state and initial state, can optimize the process of task context switching for OSEK OS. The method has proven to be useful in improving the real‐time property of RTOS.
A behavioral characteristics model for a flexible distributed system
Authors: Takahashi Akiko , Kinoshita Tetsuo
Published: July 2010

Purpose

With the wide spread of the ubiquitous environment, it is necessary to provide adequate multimedia communication services for various users under various networked environments. In such situations, it is essential to organize multimedia software components dynamically to provide necessary services for effective service provision based on the system's operational environment during the run time of the system. The purpose of this paper is to propose a new scheme for observing and controlling behavior of the QoS‐aware agent organization, which provides a flexible QoS control of multimedia service components.

Design/methodology/approach

Two models are proposed in this paper: a flexible distributed system (FDS) model and a behavioral characteristics model (BCM), which were applied to the design of network middleware constructed as a QoS‐aware agent organization. Experiments were performed using the middleware prototype system.

Findings

Results confirmed that the proposed models provide an effective scheme for designers of multimedia communication services.

Originality/value

This paper shows that using the FDS model, a multiagent system can be designed and constructed systematically. In addition, using BCM, a multiagent system with flexible QoS control capability can deal with changes of the system's operational situations and thereby maintain the required QoS as well as its behavioral characteristics.
Ubiquitous QoS communications using scalable satellite networking
Authors: Durresi Arjan , Barolli Leonard , Koyama Akio , Takizawa Makoto
Published: July 2010

Purpose

Satellite networking will be an important component of future ubiquitous communications systems. Satellite networks will be especially useful to interconnect remote sensor networks. Therefore, satellite networks should provide the needed QoS, differentiation of services and at the same time keep the required scalability. The purpose of this paper is to propose a new Diffserv‐based scheme of bandwidth allocation during congestion, called proportional allocation of bandwidth (PAB).

Design/methodology/approach

The paper suggests a method for implementing PAB without storing per‐flow state, which makes the scheme scalable and simple and shows, by simulation, the advantages of using PAB in IP satellite networks.

Findings

The paper finds that PAB can be used in geostationary earth orbit, MEO and low earth orbit satellite networks. In PAB, during congestion all flows get a share of IP available bandwidth, which is in proportion to their subscribed information rate.

Originality/value

The simulations described in this paper show that the performance of PAB scheme is good on congested satellite networks.
Social sustainability, flexible work arrangements, and diverse women
Authors: Blake‐Beard Stacy , O'Neill Regina , Ingols Cynthia , Shapiro Mary
Published: July 2010

Purpose

A key challenge facing organizations today is sustainability in economic, environmental, and social arenas. The purpose of this paper is to examine flexible work arrangements (FWAs) a source of social sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing from theoretical explanations of social sustainability, the authors explored opportunities and challenges of FWAs as social sustainability in the American workforce.

Findings

While FWAs allow organizations to “sustain” their workforce, diverse employees face challenges in accessing them, particularly across dimensions of gender, race, and class. The paper offers guiding principles for organizational leaders, including making flexibility an organizational norm, better understanding employees' lives outside of work, and creating metrics of social sustainability.

Research limitations/implications

To extend knowledge on FWAs as a source of social sustainability, researchers should focus beyond managerial, professional, and mostly White women in America. What can be learned about employees of color, of lower socioeconomic levels, and those in location‐dependent jobs? What can be learned from companies and countries, who are leaders in providing flexible options?

Practical implications

Given the potential for FWAs to minimize tensions from conflicting demands of work and life, efforts to employ FWAs should be directed at the entire organization. This paper discusses the differential impact of FWAs across different groups of women and questions current organizational responses.

Originality/value

The paper expands the understanding of social sustainability to include an organization's human resources by examining the use of FWAs for diverse women, and by offering suggestions for practitioners and researchers interested in social sustainability.
Technological innovation and culture: research needed for China and other countries
Authors: Kash Don E.
Published: July 2010

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to suggest that the importance of culture on the innovation of technological processes and products has not received sufficient attention from researchers. The paper offers a framework and some categories for investigating the affects of culture on technological innovation.

Design/methodology/approach

The data and ideas that inform this paper come primarily from interviews carried out as a part of case studies of the innovation of 13 technology products and processes centered in China and other five countries.

Findings

Innovation success in the various technology sectors differs among countries including China in part because of different national cultures – the norms and values that guide and constrain both the individuals in societies and the societies at large.

Research limitations/implications

The values the paper assigns to eight cultural characteristics for China and other five countries are based on qualitative interviews and more scientific survey is needed.

Practical implications

Increased understanding of how different national cultures influence innovation will give managers and policy makers improved opportunities to formulate policies and management practices that can overcome cultural barriers and take advantage of cultural assets.

Originality/value

The paper offers a starting point for the investigation of the impact of national cultures on technological innovation in different technology sectors.
A METHOD FOR THE DETERMINATION OF THE COEFFICIENT OF EXPANSION1
Authors: Kinzie C. J. , Commons C. H.
Published: July 2010

A description is given of a furnace and accessories for the determination of the co‐efficient of expansion of glasses. Suggestions are presented which may lead to the useful application of the method for the determination of the coefficient of expansion of materials in the high‐temperature range.
SOME EFFECTS OF GRAIN SIZE OF CHINA CLAYS*
Authors: Viewko Hermann F
Published: July 2010

Measurements of grain size of a series of china clays were made, and a preliminary investigation of the relation between particle size and some properties was undertaken.
THERMAL CONDUCTIVITY OF MAGNESITE BRICK*
Authors: Wilkrs Gokdon U.
Published: July 2010

The thermal conductivity of magnesite brick has been determined from 200 to 2500deg;F with a new type of furnace and the results compared with previous experimenters.
CONVERSION OF PERIODIC KILNS FROM COAL FIRING TO NATURAL GAS FOR FIRING GLAZED CLAY PRODUCTS*
Authors: Gradv Robert F.
Published: July 2010

This paper describes in detail the operation of a pressure system as applied to open fired round periodic kilns, using natural gas as a fuel. A comparison is made between this system and other more prominent types of kilns and their equipment.
A NEW LEPIDOLITE DEPOSIT IN COLORADO*
Authors: Eckel Edwin B.
Published: July 2010

A newly discovered pegmatite deposit near Ohio City, Colorado, is chiefly lepidolite, massive topaz, beryl, and albite, with some samarskite and columbitc. Three parallel pegmatite dikes, cach about 11 fect thick and 300 feet long, cut black schist. The minerals arc banded parallel to walls, with the following succession from walls to center; fine‐grained albite and quartz, large plates of lcpidolite with crystals of topaz and beryl, fine‐grained lcpidolitc, and lamellar albite. An estimate of the bulk percentage of the various constituents heads to the belief that at least several thousand tons of each of the commercially vdluahle minerals await mining.
THE USE OF TRIBARIUM ALUMINATE IN STRUCTURAL CLAY PRODUCTS*
Authors: Carter W. K. , King R. M.
Published: July 2010

Tribariuni aluminate was used in brick and sewer pipe, both on laboratory and plant scale tests. It was found to be efficient both as a scum prcventivc and as a producer of better density and color.
THE BLISTERING OF CAST IRON ENAMEL*
Authors: Poste Emerson P
Published: July 2010

This Progress Report II is a continuation of the report presented before the Enamel Division in 1932. The subjects discussed are (1) gases from metal, (2) possible reaction between enamel and iron, and (3) gases from the enamel itself. The author concludes in this report that nothing has developed which is inconsistent with the facts summarized in the 1932 report.
RESULTS OF SOME SHOP TESTS ON REBOILING*
Authors: Porter Frank R
Published: July 2010

The reboiling problem was studied in the plant from three viewpoints, as follows: (1) ground coat, type of milling conditions and application; (2) processes, metal cleaning and ground‐coat drying and firing: and (3) enameling iron, source and gage.
EFFECT OF SODIUM ALUMINATE ON CONSISTENCY AND ACID RESISTANCE OF SOME ACID‐RESISTANT ENAMELS*
Authors: Mcintyre G. H. , Irwin. J. T. , Carter W. K. , King R. M.
Published: July 2010

This paper includes consistency studies and shows variations in acid resistance occurring with concentration and the method of using sodium aluminate as a setting‐up agent.
RELIABILITY OF CROSS‐BEND, IMPACT, AND REFLECTIVITY DATA OBTAINED FROM VARIOUS SIZES OF TEST PIECES*
Authors: Mcintyre G. H. , Irwin J. T. , Ammon M. G.
Published: July 2010

Cross‐bend, impact, and reflectivity data are given 011 test pieces varying from 2 by 3 to 9 by 16 inches, using an application range of 30 to 100 grams per square foot (dry weight). The results indicate that the 4‐ by 12‐inch test piece, properly prepared, may be used for such determinations with a minimum error.
A RAPID METHOD FOR THE ESTIMATION OF SODA IN GLASSES*
Authors: Scholey S. R.
Published: July 2010

A direct determination of alkali is often avoided in glass analysis because of the tedious nature of the method and the estimation by differcnce is not justifiable because of accumulating errors. The method proposed consists in HF‐H2SO4 decomposition, removal of MgO and R2O3 by lime, conversion of sulfate to carbonates by Ba(OH)2 and CO2, boiling to precipitate CaCO3 and BaCO3, and titration of Na2CO3.