bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive strain and band gap analysis of PA-MBE grown AlGaN/GaN heterostructures on sapphire with ultra thin buffer
Authors: Mahata Mihir Kumar , Ghosh Saptarsi , Jana Sanjay Kumar , Chakraborty Apurba , Bag Ankush , Mukhopadhyay Partha , Kumar Rahul , Biswas Dhrubes
Published: November 2014

In this work, cluster tool (CT) Plasma Assisted Molecular Beam Epitaxy (PA-MBE) grown AlGaN/GaN heterostructure on c-plane (0 0 0 1) sapphire (Al2O3) were investigated by High Resolution X-ray Diffraction (HRXRD), Room Temperature Raman Spectroscopy (RTRS), and Room Temperature Photoluminescence (RTPL). The effects of strain and doping on GaN and AlGaN layers were investigated thoroughly. The out-of-plane (‘c’) and in-plane (‘a’) lattice parameters were measured from RTRS analysis and as well as reciprocal space mapping (RSM) from HRXRD scan of (002) and (105) plane. The in-plane (out-of plane) strain of the samples were found to be −2.5 × 10−3(1 × 10−3), and −1.7 × 10−3(2 × 10−3) in GaN layer and 5.1 × 10−3 (−3.3 × 10−3), and 8.8 × 10−3(−1.3 × 10−3) in AlGaN layer, respectively. In addition, the band structures of AlGaN/GaN interface were estimated by both theoretical (based on elastic theory) and experimental observations of the RTPL spectrum.
Electromagnetic noise in electric circuits: Ringing and resonance phenomena in the common mode
Authors: Kitora Shuji , Abe Masayuki , Toki Hiroshi
Published: November 2014

It is generally believed that electromagnetic noise originates from the coupling of electric signals in a circuit with electric signals in surrounding materials in the environment. However, the noise phenomenon had not been quantified until now. In order to study the phenomenon of noise, we considered a standard circuit (two transmission lines), to which an additional transmission line was introduced in order to explicitly take into account the effect of conductors in the environment. We performed calculations using a newly developed multiconductor transmission-line theory for the resulting three-line circuit in order to determine the magnitude of the coupling between the circuit and the conductors in the environment under various conditions. We observed ringing and resonance phenomena in the common mode, which influenced the performance of the normal mode as electromagnetic noise. Our findings were confirmed by recent experiments in which conductor lines were arranged in various ways using a printed circuit board (PCB). The ordinary usage of electricity in the standard electric circuit was found to be worst in exciting the common mode noise.
On the low-field Hall coefficient of graphite
Authors: Esquinazi P. , Krüger J. , Barzola-Quiquia J. , Schönemann R. , Herrmannsdörfer T. , García N.
Published: November 2014

We have measured the temperature and magnetic field dependence of the Hall coefficient (RH) in three, several micrometer long multigraphene samples of thickness between ∼9 to ∼30 nm in the temperature range 0.1 to 200 K and up to 0.2 T field. The temperature dependence of the longitudinal resistance of two of the samples indicates the contribution from embedded interfaces running parallel to the graphene layers. At low enough temperatures and fields RH is positive in all samples, showing a crossover to negative values at high enough fields and/or temperatures in samples with interfaces contribution. The overall results are compatible with the reported superconducting behavior of embedded interfaces in the graphite structure and indicate that the negative low magnetic field Hall coefficient is not intrinsic of the ideal graphite structure.
The perception of sexual harassment at university / La percepción del acoso sexual en el ámbito universitario
Authors: Ferrer-Pérez Victoria-Aurora , Bosch-Fiol Esperanza
Published: November 2014

The subjective perception of harassment victims is one of the key criteria when defining what sexual harassment is. In this context, the aim of this paper is to analyse the differences between men and women’s judgments of what behaviours constitute sexual harassment and how they are classified at university. To accomplish this, we administered a 38-item questionnaire to a sample of 1,693 people (1,521 students and 172 members of teaching staff, administration and services) at a Spanish university. The results indicate that there is a distinction associated with both the severity of the behaviours perceived and classified as sexual harassment (more severe and milder) and their content (coercion or sexual blackmail vs. environmental harassment). Within this perception, there is a clear combined effect of the variables of gender and position within the university community such that women, particularly female university staff members, classified more behaviours as mild sexual harassment.
Reanalysis and semantic persistence in native and non-native garden-path recovery
Authors: Jacob Gunnar , Felser Claudia
Published: November 2014

We report the results from an eye-movement monitoring study investigating how native and non-native speakers of English process temporarily ambiguous sentences such as While the gentleman was eating the burgers were still being reheated in the microwave, in which an initially plausible direct-object analysis is first ruled out by a syntactic disambiguation ( were) and also later on by semantic information ( being reheated). Both participant groups showed garden-path effects at the syntactic disambiguation, with native speakers showing significantly stronger effects of ambiguity than non-native speakers in later eye-movement measures but equally strong effects in first-pass reading times. Ambiguity effects at the semantic disambiguation and in participants’ end-of-trial responses revealed that for both participant groups, the incorrect direct-object analysis was frequently maintained beyond the syntactic disambiguation. The non-native group showed weaker reanalysis effects at the syntactic disambiguation and was more likely to misinterpret the experimental sentences than the native group. Our results suggest that native language (L1) and non-native language (L2) parsing are similar with regard to sensitivity to syntactic and semantic error signals, but different with regard to processes of reanalysis.
Social Workers’ Perspectives on Effective Practice in Criminal Justice Settings
Authors: Young Diane
Published: November 2014

Social workers practicing within the field of criminal justice face significant challenges. Through individual interviews, 17 experienced social workers from diverse criminal justice settings share their perspectives about the attributes needed for effective social work practice. Participants describe how they define success in their work and what it takes to be successful. They highlight specific ways of behaving within criminal justice settings, relationship qualities for working with criminal justice clients, and personal traits believed to be critical to effective practice. The participants also reflect on the value of their education and offer a suggestion for prospective criminal justice social workers.
Ethnicity and Differences Between Clinic and Ambulatory Blood Pressure Measurements
Authors: Martin Una , Haque M. Sayeed , Wood Sally , Greenfield Sheila M. , Gill Paramjit S. , Mant Jonathan , Mohammed Mohammed A. , Heer Gurdip , Johal Amanpreet , Kaur Ramendeep , Schwartz Claire , McManus Richard J.
Published: November 2014

BACKGROUND

This study investigated the relationship of ethnicity to the differences between blood pressure (BP) measured in a clinic setting and by ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) in individuals with a previous diagnosis of hypertension (HT) and without a previous diagnosis of hypertension (NHT).

METHODS

A cross-sectional comparison of BP measurement was performed in 770 participants (white British (WB, 39%), South Asian (SA, 31%), and African Caribbean (AC, 30%)) in 28 primary care clinics in West Midlands, United Kingdom. Mean differences between daytime ABPM, standardized clinic (mean of 3 occasions), casual clinic (first reading on first occasion), and last routine BP taken at the general practitioner practice were compared in HT and NHT individuals.

RESULTS

Daytime systolic and diastolic ABPM readings were similar to standardized clinic BP (systolic: 128 (SE 0.9) vs. 125 (SE 0.9) mm Hg (NHT) and 132 (SE 0.7) vs. 131 (SE 0.7) mm Hg (HT)) and were not associated with ethnicity to a clinically important extent. When BP was taken less carefully, differences emerged: casual clinic readings were higher than ABPM, particularly in the HT group where the systolic differences approached clinical relevance (131 (SE 1.2) vs. 129 (SE 1.0) mm Hg (NHT) and 139 (SE 0.9) vs. 133 (SE 0.7) mm Hg (HT)) and were larger in SA and AC hypertensive individuals (136 (SE 1.5) vs. 133 (SE 1.2) mm Hg (WB), 141 (SE 1.7) vs. 133 (SE 1.4) mm Hg (SA), and 142 (SE 1.6) vs. 134 (SE 1.3) mm Hg (AC); mean differences: 3 (0–7), P = 0.03 and 4 (1–7), P = 0.01, respectively). Differences were also observed for the last practice reading in SA and ACs.

CONCLUSIONS

BP differences between ethnic groups where BP is carefully measured on multiple occasions are small and unlikely to alter clinical management. When BP is measured casually on a single occasion or in routine care, differences appear that could approach clinical relevance.
Regulation of Cerebral Autoregulation by Carbon Dioxide
Authors: Meng Lingzhong , Gelb Adrian W.
Published: November 2014

Cerebral autoregulation describes a mechanism that maintains cerebral blood flow stable despite fluctuating perfusion pressure. Multiple nonperfusion pressure processes also regulate cerebral perfusion. These mechanisms are integrated. The effect of the interplay between carbon dioxide and perfusion pressure on cerebral circulation has not been specifically reviewed. On the basis of the published data and speculation on the aspects that are without supportive data, the authors offer a conceptualization delineating the regulation of cerebral autoregulation by carbon dioxide. The authors conclude that hypercapnia causes the plateau to progressively ascend, a rightward shift of the lower limit, and a leftward shift of the upper limit. Conversely, hypocapnia results in the plateau shifting to lower cerebral blood flows, unremarkable change of the lower limit, and unclear change of the upper limit. It is emphasized that a sound understanding of both the limitations and the dynamic and integrated nature of cerebral autoregulation fosters a safer clinical practice.
Disruption of Cortical Connectivity during Remifentanil Administration Is Associated with Cognitive Impairment but Not with Analgesia
Authors: Khodayari-Rostamabad Ahmad , Olesen Søren S. , Graversen Carina , Malver Lasse P. , Kurita Geana P. , Sjøgren Per , Christrup Lona L. , Drewes Asbjørn M.
Published: November 2014

Background:

The authors investigated the effect of remifentanil administration on resting electroencephalography functional connectivity and its relationship to cognitive function and analgesia in healthy volunteers.

Methods:

Twenty-one healthy male adult subjects were enrolled in this placebo-controlled double-blind cross-over study. For each subject, 2.5 min of multichannel electroencephalography recording, a cognitive test of sustained attention (continuous reaction time), and experimental pain scores to bone-pressure and heat stimuli were collected before and after infusion of remifentanil or placebo. A coherence matrix was calculated from the electroencephalogram, and three graph-theoretical measures (characteristic path-length, mean clustering coefficient, and relative small-worldness) were extracted to characterize the overall cortical network properties.

Results:

Compared to placebo, most graph-theoretical measures were significantly altered by remifentanil at the alpha and low beta range (8 to 18 Hz; all P < 0.001). Taken together, these alterations were characterized by an increase in the characteristic path-length (alpha 17% and low beta range 24%) and corresponding decrements in mean clustering coefficient (low beta range −25%) and relative small-worldness (alpha −17% and low beta range −42%). Changes in characteristic path-lengths after remifentanil infusion were correlated to the continuous reaction time index (r = −0.57; P = 0.009), while no significant correlations between graph-theoretical measures and experimental pain tests were seen.

Conclusions:

Remifentanil disrupts the functional connectivity network properties of the electroencephalogram. The findings give new insight into how opioids interfere with the normal brain functions and have the potential to be biomarkers for the sedative effects of opioids in different clinical settings.
The books of 1897 ‐ today
Authors: Bone Sarah , MacGruer Alasdair , Kelly Rebecca
Published: November 2014

Presents the three winning entries from the 1997 Scottish Schools Essay Competition, organized by the University of Paisley Library and sponsored by John Smith & Son Bookshops Limited. Sarah Bone’s
first prize winning entry discusses J.M. Barrie’s Peter Pan and explores the darker and more disturbing aspects of the book. Alasdair MacGruer discusses the theme of social progress through science as shown in H.G. Wells’ The Time Machine. Rebecca Kelly discusses E. Nesbit’s The Railway Children and its relevance today.
Effects of the electronic Nigerian money fraud on the brand equity of Nigeria and Africa
Authors: Viosca R. Charles , Bergiel Blaise J. , Balsmeier Phillip
Published: November 2014

Using the Internet to carry out their schemes, fraudsters now have access to the consumers of the world as well as the potential to destroy the image of an entire country. One particular type of Internet fraud, known as the Nigerian money fraud, has become associated with that nation, damaging the brand equity of the country and its region, Africa. The purpose of this article is to discuss the impact that the electronic version of the Nigerian money fraud may have had on the brand equity of Nigeria and Africa and what steps can be taken to diminish these negative effects.
Need for achievement, business goals, and entrepreneurial persistence
Authors: Wu Sibin , Matthews  , Dagher Grace K.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of the study is to employ the need theory to investigate whether a need for achievement has an effect on persistence behavior among entrepreneurs, and whether a need for achievement and business goals interact to influence such persistence.

Design/methodology/approach

A longitudinal study of nascent entrepreneurs was conducted by a field survey in a metropolitan area of a mid‐western state in the USA. Logistic regression was used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

Need for achievement is found to be positively related to entrepreneurial persistence. Business goals are found to moderate the relationship between need for achievement and persistence.

Research limitations/implications

The time span between the two waves of data collection in the longitudinal study might have been too short.

Practical implications

This study highlights the importance of matching need for achievement and business goals. For complex tasks, a strong need for achievement should be accompanied with moderate business goals if persistence is to occur. Venture capitalists and government agencies can improve entrepreneurial success by keeping a close eye on the match.

Originality/value

Few studies have explored the issue of entrepreneurial persistence. The present study contributes to a better understanding of motivation and other variables that influence entrepreneurial persistence.
Identification of domains for a new conceptual model of strategic entrepreneurship using the configuration approach
Authors: Kraus Sascha , Kauranen Ilkka , Henning Reschke Carl
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to structure and synthesize the existing scholarly works in the young and emerging field of “strategic entrepreneurship” (SE) as well as to develop a theoretical model, thereby contributing to further theory‐building.

Design/methodology/approach

As the results of a review of extant literature, four different elementary domains conceptualizing SE on the basis of the configuration approach could be identified: the strategy, the entrepreneur, the environment and the structure and resources of the firm.

Findings

The SE model contributes to the understanding of how firms can create value. It has been shown beforehand that the configuration approach is suitable for strategic management as well as for entrepreneurship in the sense of new venture creation and arguably can be transferred to the larger level of SME strategy as well.

Research limitations/implications

With the four dimensions of SE, this paper has so far only been able to deliver a starting point for further research which (empirically) investigates their interplay and attempts to derive “optimal configurations” of the dimensions, e.g. with regard to different firm sizes and environmental conditions. This empirical part is still outstanding.

Practical implications

The major managerial implication of the SE approach is the possibility to develop more entrepreneurial and innovative thinking, especially in SMEs and young ventures. This stands in contrast with classical strategic management approaches, which characteristically emphasize administrative management and focus on day‐to‐day business.

Originality/value

This paper is the first to model SE by using the configuration approach, thereby providing a solid theoretical foundation for future empirical research.
Extending the “size matters” debate
Authors: Malik Ashish , Nilakant Venkataraman
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the factors that influence training decision making in small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in India's IT‐enabled business process outsourcing industry.

Design/methodology/approach

The research strategy employed is a case study. Data from semi‐structured interviews, organizational documents, and non‐participant observation are analysed.

Findings

The inclusive theoretical approach uncovers novel explanations through the complex interaction that occurs between various internal and external factors that shape the nature and extent of training provision in SMEs in the context of a developing country. In SMEs, enterprise training can take a variety of forms – formal, informal, and incidental. The final training provision is shaped by high employee turnover, the complexity of the process, client specifications, and the presence of certain organizational capabilities.

Research limitations/implications

Although a multi‐case embedded design was followed, the results and findings cannot be generalized to a wider population. Findings are generalized to the literature on the drivers of training.

Practical implications

The paper's findings allow practitioners to utilize scarce resources effectively, particularly for where SMEs are operating in a dynamic outsourcing environment.

Originality/value

This paper extends the current academic and policy discourses on formal and informal training in SMEs by reporting findings from a new context – India's dynamic outsourcing environment. Novel explanations are offered of how SMEs that outsource business process offshore meet their skill development needs.
The challenges for sustainable skills development in the UK automotive supply sector
Authors: Bevis Keith
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a model for sustainable learning that can be used to target training resources more effectively. The focus is the automotive supplier chain where skills development is an urgent problem.

Design/methodology/approach

A number of different surveys have been combined to draw out government, employer and staff approaches to training. From these a model was developed and its elements tested on a further group of small to medium‐sized companies (SMEs).

Findings

From the initial surveys the outcomes of training across this segment of the industry were mostly unknown, unmeasured and often unpredictable. This result was in keeping with wider research which has indicated that even in large enterprises some 60 per cent of training budgets lack quantifiable targets to achieve. Amongst the smaller SMEs the skills needs were different to those of the larger enterprises.

Practical implications

A model has been presented that can support sustainable learning. More specific criteria could be used to target training resources selectively. If an enterprise is ready, motivated and receptive; if training is only given to selected suitable staff whose achievement is subsequently recognised; if the training is relevant and focused; then the sustained learning will lead to measureable outcomes that relate to the enterprise's goals.

Originality/value

The model provides a framework of criteria to target training more effectively. This is potentially a new way to focus skills development. The companies most likely to meet these criteria will be the competitive and innovative companies. The results can be adapted and applied also to most European SMEs.
Impact of electronic journals on university libraries of India: a study
Authors: Kaur Amritpal
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of e‐journals on university libraries in terms of resources, staffing, space, technical services and equipment.

Design/methodology/approach

A well‐structured questionnaire was designed to collect the data for the present study. A thorough survey of the literature was done to examine the findings of the earlier relevant studies.

Findings

The results of the survey provide useful information regarding the impact of e‐journals on subscription to e‐journals, infrastructure, staff, space, technical services, photocopying, inter‐library loan, library use and reference services.

Originality/value

The study will have important implications for information creators, publishers, libraries, scholars and researchers. It evaluates the impact of e‐journals on libraries and points out the directions that e‐journals will take in the future.
Distraction, destruction, deliverance: the presence of mindscape in marketing’s new millennium
Authors: Sherry John F.
Published: November 2014

Marketing‐driven consumer culture is often indicted in the degradation of the ecosphere. Futurists envision an ecological crisis in the new millennium. Marketing and consumer research can be enlisted in the aversion of this crisis. Political and philosophical regimes of environmental reclamation and redemption must be mobilized by conversion experiences in the individual’s soul. In this paper, I propose that marketers instigate millenarian activities to trigger a revitalization movement in the service of ecotheology. Such a provocative enterprise is well suited to the discipline’s posture of eminent domain at century’s end. I offer some suggestions for the shape that such a revitalization might take.
Perceptions of auditors and financial‐statement users regarding auditor independence in Bahrain
Authors: Al‐Ajmi Jasim , Saudagaran Shahrokh
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the perceptions of auditor independence between auditors, bank‐loan officers, and financial analysts in Bahrain.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines the effect of 41 independence‐enhancing and – threatening Factors on the perceptions of auditor, bank‐loan officers, and financial analysts regarding auditor independence in Bahrain. Out of 450 questionnaires distributed, 281 usable responses were received, representing a response rate of 62.4 percent.

Findings

Overall, the three groups agree on the classification of the 41 factors into two groups; however, they do not agree on the relative importance of those factors on their perception of auditor independence. Economic reliance of auditors on their clients and the provisions of non‐audit service, competition, and long tenure of audit services are considered the most important independence‐threatening factors. The risks posed to auditors in fulfilling their audit engagement, regulatory rights and requirements surrounding auditor change, regulation concerning the appointment/remuneration of auditors, and the disclosure of financial and nonfinancial relationships are among the most important factors that are perceived by the three groups to enhance auditor independence.

Research limitations/implications

The samples did not include all users of financial statements; the samples were drawn only from institutions that were willing to take part, and consequently the results might not be applicable to those that did not take part in the study; and data were collected using a survey questionnaire and this approach is subject to certain types of bias such as response bias, which may affect the reliability of the respondents' answers.

Practical implications

The paper can inform policy makers, governments, and professional accounting bodies in emerging markets in countries that share similar economic, political, and cultural environment on how policies and frameworks related to auditor independence can be structured to ensure adequate regulation of the capital market, and enhance the awareness of users and auditors about the contextual factors surrounding the role of an auditor, in addition to the possible threats and enhancing factors that affect auditor independence.

Originality/value

The paper offers rich data on the perceptions of auditors' independence of auditors and users of financial statements. This is the first time, this type of research has been conducted in Bahrain.
Long‐term share performance of Malaysian acquiring firms
Authors: Siew Peng Lee , Isa Mansor
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the long‐term post‐acquisition share performance of Malaysian acquiring firms over the period 2000‐2004.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use the event‐type methodology to analyse acquirer returns in relation to target status, method of payment and other firm characteristics, using both univariate and multivariate analyses. In total three performance measures are used to identify the long‐term share performance of acquiring firms: cumulative market‐adjusted abnormal returns, the buy‐and‐hold market‐adjusted and buy‐and‐hold matched‐sample abnormal returns.

Findings

The results show the existence of negative abnormal returns to acquirers over two‐ and three‐year periods after acquisition. The study also finds that acquirers of private targets earn negative returns, while acquirers of public targets earn insignificant returns. It is also found that under‐performance is limited to the small size acquirers and to large relative‐size acquisitions. Furthermore, the results indicate that acquirer's long‐term performance is not related to the method of payment and book‐to‐market ratio of the acquirer.

Originality/value

The Malaysian stock market is relatively small compared to the US and UK markets where most previous research has been carried out. The current study allows us to assess the robustness of the models and whether the findings in developed markets may be generalized to the smaller developing markets. This paper contributes to the present body of knowledge by offering evidence of acquirer's post‐acquisition performance from a developing market.
The impact of international and industrial diversification strategies on the cash flow sensitivity of cash
Authors: Teclezion Mussie
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the impact of the two diversification strategies on firms' propensity to save cash out of cash flow.

Design/methodology/approach

The author examines the quarterly data of Compustat's active and research firms from the first quarter of 1999 to the last quarter of 2005, with a sample size of more than 79,000 firm quarters. A two‐step GMM Instrumental Variable regression of change in cash holdings, on variables that measure the degree of industrial as well as international diversification strategies, is employed to investigate whether each diversification strategy alleviates or exacerbates firm's propensity to save cash out of its cash flows.

Findings

Evidence is found that industrial diversification mitigates the propensity of firms to save cash out of their cash flows. When the sample is partitioned into financially constrained and financially non‐constrained firms, industrial diversification reduces propensity of firms to save cash out of cash flows for financially constrained firms but not for financially non‐constrained firms. On the other hand, the results do not indicate any impact of international diversification on the sensitivity of cash to cash flows.

Originality/value

The paper tests, empirically, whether international and industrial diversification strategies affect the propensity of firms to save cash out of their cash flow.
Use of geographical information system (GIS) in the cataloging of documents
Authors: Mehri‐e‐Sedighi
Published: November 2014

Purpose

This article seeks to demonstrate the use of geographical information system (GIS) in cataloging of documents, such as earthquake related documents.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was descriptive‐analytic and its steps are summarized as follows: collecting the data, entering information into the GIS, system management and finally producing outputs.

Findings

The investigative result shows that: by using of GIS, all types of data available in the various databases can be illustrated, analyzed and reviewed simultaneously and easily. Furthermore, data geographical dispersion can be easily studied and the geographic positions from the view point of earthquake and other related issues have been studied, identified and introduced to the users for doing studies.

Practical implications

There are numerous implications for current and future use of GIS in cataloging of documents. In addition to updating and editing functions, access to available data could be tailored to the various requirements of the users.

Originality/value

The system not only provides a tool for spotting numerous capabilities and potential but is also useful for identifying research gaps in different geographic regions.
AAAS Forum on Science & Technology Policy: Largest Attendance Ever in 2009
Authors: Arthur Mihram G.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report on The American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS)'s 34th Annual Forum on Science and Technology Policy, held at the Ronald Reagan Building in Washington, DC on 30 April and l May 2009.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a descriptive report.

Findings

The attendance this year was the largest ever. The thrust was money – government expenditures for science and technology/project/subjects. Other topics in the program included: grant‐seeking processes, trust in science, science journalism and scientific literacy.

Originality/value

The Forum on Science and Technology Policy is of particular interest to those involved in public policy issues facing the science, engineering and higher education communities.
Analyzing RSS applications on library web sites
Authors: De Sarkar Tanmay
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of the application of Rich Site Summary (RSS) in academic and public libraries emphasizing characteristic features and purposes of use. It seeks to highlight the degree of adoption of RSS in different regions and also between different types of libraries.

Design/methodology/approach

Convenience sampling method was followed to select four samples of population, one from each of four continents. Data were collected, using the content analysis method, along the checkpoints developed after consulting various literature and web sites. Data analysis was performed using Microsoft Excel.

Findings

The findings highlighted the basic features of RSS applied in libraries and the specific purposes of its use around the globe, underlining the areas where RSS is most effectively implemented. Disparities were revealed in RSS adoption between academic and public libraries, which may be attributed to diverse user profiles across different social spheres. Though there is little difference between libraries in North America and Australia with regard to the extension of RSS implementation, its adoption is considerably higher in North American libraries. However, the disproportionate use of RSS may be attributed to the differential internet penetration rate across the continents.

Research limitations/implications

The current study was restricted to four continents – North America, Europe, Asia and Australia, and the survey was completely internet based, conducted on library web sites accessible to all and available in English. Content analysis, combined with questionnaire and interview method may enable future researchers to focus on other aspects, such as the impact of RSS on users' and librarians' attitudes and perceptions. This, in turn, may help measure how far library web sites using RSS are capable of motivating and engaging users in harnessing web‐based library facilities and services.

Originality/value

Being an exhaustive assessment of one of the most viable library initiated net‐based functionalities; the findings provide concrete evidence of the applications of RSS in libraries across the continents. The findings will guide future librarians toward using library web sites effectively to provide web‐based information services, enhancing sustainability and service values.
Narrative text biases attending the critical incidents technique
Authors: Burns Alvin C. , Williams Laura A. , “Trey” Maxham James
Published: November 2014

The critical incident technique (CIT) wherein informants describe their experiences and feelings attendant to a specific occasion is an attractive qualitative technique because it is easy to administer in a group setting, computer textual analysis is readily available, and it provides insight into marketplace phenomena. However, self‐disclosure theory predicts and studies have found that the informant’s gender, the target of the disclosure, and similarity between informant and target affect the quality of the informant’s narrative text. Using hypotheses from this knowledge base and adding the consumer construct of involvement, the authors conduct an experiment using CIT. Three hypotheses are supported: females disclose more than males, more is disclosed to friends than to strangers, and a high involvement topic produces more disclosure than does a low involvement one. Qualitative marketing researchers are warned that subtle biases exist in narrative text generated by the use of CIT, and precautions are suggested.
Low Ohm Resistor Series for Optimum Performance in High Voltage Surge Applications
Authors: Barker M.F.
Published: November 2014

The growth in digital telecom systems around the world has led to an increase in
demand for surge protection components. These components often use low ohm resistor compositions
in a serpentine configuration. The demands placed upon these materials during pulsing are high. Not
only are the materials expected to withstand more severe pulses, they are also expected to have
minimal adverse effect on the environment. To meet these increased demands, a new system of surge
resistor materials has been developed. The design, manufacture and testing of these materials ensures
optimum performance in high voltage surge applications. This paper describes the performance of this
new surge resistor system and discusses how the performance of the resistors relates to the paste
constituents, encapsulant materials and the laser trimming process.
TECHNICAL BRIEF Polymer Thick Film Resistors: Application
and Design Criteria
Authors: Jean D. , Linde R.
Published: November 2014

Polymer thick
film (PTF) resistors have been effectively used for many years in consumer goods like
timers, motor controls, computers and a wide variety of high performance equipment. The potential for
this technology has reached only a small portion of the market; its full potential is still to be
determined. The cost savings relationship of printed resistors should be
considered by factoring the design and the number of resistors printed. Printed resistor savings vs discrete component costs can be a factor of three. This is dependent on the number of printed
resistors per board of the same sheet resistance (based on 400 printed resistors of the same sheet
resistant values on a 18 × 24 panel vs discrete components). By minimising the
printing operations, resistor costs will be effectively controlled. Resistive
ranges of thick film material are from 1 ohm to 10 Mega Ohm.The printing quality of resistors may vary
from 10‐20%; however, resistors may be trimmed to 1% in value. Many
values of resistors may be achieved with the same decade of resistor pastes. The determining factor is
the design and layout of the circuit. The power rating of the printed resistor is
proportional to the geometric surface area and is highly dependent on the substrate selection. The ability
for resistors to be printed and buried into the multilayer will give design engineers more flexibility in
active circuit density. Up to a 30% increase in surface area may be realised if resistors are buried
into the inner layer of the PCB or under other surface components.
Creating efficiencies in the acute care pathway: the rapid assessment, treatment and discharge approach
Authors: Bowers Alexis , Aldouri Elham
Published: November 2014

Purpose

Despite contemporary mental health services shifting to a community‐based model of care, acute inpatient care is still necessary for many patients experiencing an acute psychological crisis. As inpatient services cost the National Health Service nearly £600 million a year, initiatives to reduce time spent in hospital, whilst maintaining safety and quality, are being actively promoted on a national level. Mental health patients in Hertfordshire spend on average two weeks in hospital during their acute crisis. The aim of this study is to reduce bed occupancy rates by implementing a novel approach to inpatient management.

Design/methodology/approach

A pragmatic controlled clinical trial design was used to address the aim of this study.

Findings

The results demonstrate that, compared to a functionalized inpatient ward (one with a designated inpatient consultant psychiatrist conducting a weekly ward round), it is possible to reduce bed occupancy rates without increasing demand on other wards. Furthermore, 28‐day readmission rates and total admissions over seven days were reduced.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations relating to the study design and potential generalisability to similar services are discussed. Further studies to triangulate the data are suggested.

Practical implications

This novel approach to inpatient management provides exciting data that suggest patients can be moved along the acute pathway more efficiently. Recommendations for further studies are made in light of the findings.

Originality/value

This paper will appeal to acute care clinicians, service managers, and commissioners of mental health services. It provides an evidence base for making efficiencies within the acute service whilst maintaining quality of care for patients.
Learning for renewal; learning in a trade union practice
Authors: Köpsén Susanne
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyze learning in a Swedish trade union board in a workplace, according to contemporary challenges in working life and conditions, of decentralization and local independency of trade union work and learning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on ethnographic studies of two Swedish local trade union boards. The aim is to investigate the everyday activities of the board and the learning processes that were generated. This paper focuses on the study of an experienced trade union board. Theory stressing the situated character of learning is used to understand the changes in participation and the trade union practice. The trade union board's practice is interpreted as solving problems with reference to pragmatism.

Findings

The paper finds that the experienced board is competent and manages to independently solve unfamiliar but traditional problems, processes of learning are generated, but it fails to develop the competence and update the practice required for the complex and challenging problems of today on its own.

Practical implications

The local trade union board does not manage to develop the competence giving it the power to independently handle the trade union issues significant for the future of the trade union members and the workplace on its own.

Originality/value

This context of learning has not been studied before. It is a type of workplace learning, but part of a social movement.
At Home in the World in Any Century: A Jesuit Perspective on International Business
Authors: Padberg Rev. John W.
Published: November 2014

This article is the text of remarks delivered to students beginning their studies in the two‐year Executive Master of International Business program sponsored by the Boeing Institute of International Business at the John Cook School of Business at Saint Louis University on August 6, 2004.
The Cross‐Border Merger and Acquisition Strategy: A Research Perspective
Authors: Hitt Michael A. , Pisano Vincenzo
Published: November 2014

Cross‐border mergers and acquisitions present significant opportunities for firms wishing to diversify their activities geographically, learn new knowledge, and gain access to valuable resources. Cross‐border mergers and acquisitions present multiple challenges as well. These include the difficulty of evaluating target firms, cultural and institutional differences, and the liabilities of foreignness among others. We compare acquisitions to enter new markets with other market entry mechanisms (strategic alliances and greenfield ventures), and conclude with suggestions for future research to advance our knowledge of this strategy of increasing importance globally.
Paternalism as a Positive Form of Leader – Subordinate Exchange: Evidence from Mexico
Authors: Martínez Patricia G.
Published: November 2014

Despite its persistence as a form of leadership, paternalism has received limited attention within organizational studies. In order to develop a construct definition of paternalism in a contemporary organizational context for this study, a literature review of paternalism is synthesized with qualitative field data collected in Mexican organizations and U.S. organizations that are owned and operated by Mexican immigrants. This analysis is conducted within a framework of leadership, and it suggests that paternalism combines paternalists’ benevolent acts with their subtle control over subordinates’ flexibility in meeting employment terms. Leaders express benevolence through their supportiveness and by providing for employees’ welfare both within the organization and their personal needs outside of the organization. Furthermore, both paternalistic leaders and subordinates frame their relationships in terms of social exchange, offering new insights into the dynamics within these exchange relationships.
Do Workers Share Innovation Returns? A Study of the Spanish Manufacturing Sector
Authors: Martínez‐Ros Ester , Salas‐Fumás Vicente
Published: November 2014

This paper explores whether workers share innovation returns and how the size of innovation returns is affected by market conditions. Using a panel data of Spanish manufacturing firms during the period from 1990 to 1993, we answer affirmatively to both questions. Product and process innovations both generate returns, but such returns are higher for process innovations. The size of innovation returns seems to be affected positively by demand growth, by product standardization, and by low product market concentration. The three empirical results are in agreement with the theoretical predictions, such as Schmoockler’s (1966) theory of demand‐pool innovation, the price‐elasticity of demand effects postulated by Kamien & Schwartz (1970), and the replacement effect suggested by Arrow (1962). At the time of generating returns, process innovations are more affected by market conditions than are other innovations.
Explaining the Endurance of a Permanently Challenged Public‐Private Partnership: A Stakeholder Approach
Authors: Jiménez Amparo , Pasquero Jean
Published: November 2014

Despite a growing literature on strategic partnerships, little attention has been paid to the way public‐private partnerships (PPPs) manage their relationships with their environments. Using a stakeholder approach, we specify how a large international public‐private partnership was able to endure over a period of 24 years in spite of a particularly challenging societal environment in a Latin American country. We identify sustainability mechanisms and discuss their implications for managing a PPP.
Organizational Change Among Emerging Latin American Firms: From “Multilatinas” to Multinationals
Authors: Martínez Jon I. , Paulo Esperança José , de la Torre José R.
Published: November 2014

This paper focuses on the firm‐specific assets, management processes, and organizational strategies displayed by a group of firms based in Latin America, a region that undertook a generalized attempt of economic liberalization during the 1990s. We analyze the operational and organizational strategies of 40 local firms with rapidly expanding international operations within the region – defined as “multilatinas” – and contrast them with those of 58 U.S. and European multinational corporations also operating in Latin America. By comparing these two sets of firms – emerging and experienced – in the same context and over the same time period, we can test for the universality of models of organizational change that are based largely on the latter. We show that multilatinas enjoy less firm‐specific assets and make less extensive use of sophisticated management processes than their foreign counterparts. We also see, however, many of these emerging multinationals evolving by adopting more complex coordination and control mechanisms as they face a more integrated and global environment.
Investigation of the processing effects of UV, heat and laser ablation on SU‐8 microturbines
Authors: Heaton Mark E. , Rogante Massimo , Len Adél , Denieffe David
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to determine the nano‐sized characteristics of SU‐8 polymer micro‐electromechanical systems airflow metrology turbines samples. These microturbines were made to be the first using axial airflow for low air pressure response. This polymer may be affected during curing by UV and heat baking, as well as confined heat from laser ablation. Defects in the resin matrix may influence the material quality and hence the final turbine performance.

Design/methodology/approach

Small angle neutron scattering investigations were performed using the instrumentation of the Budapest Research Reactor.

Findings

The average sizes of the voids/cracks in the resin matrix of the turbines were determined and allowed the viability of making smaller even thinner rotor blades for higher spin and electrical output capability to be considered.

Originality/value

The obtained results have advanced the industrial applicability of the adopted technique in the considered sector of polymer analysis.