bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermal cycle reliability of solder joints to alternate plating finishes
Authors: Wayne Johnson R. , Wang Vicky , Palmer Michael
Published: April 2007

Studies immersion gold over electroless nickel, immersion gold over electroless palladium, immersion gold over electroless palladium over electroless nickel, immersion gold over immersion silver and immersion silver. In the palladium finishes, two palladium thicknesses were evaluated: 10‐12μin. and 18‐20μin. Multiple plating chemistry suppliers provided plated test vehicles. HASL and OSP test vehicles were included as control samples. In total, 14 finishes were evaluated in the test matrix. The test vehicle was a daisy chain of zero ohm 1,206 chip resistors that could be monitored individually. Test vehicles were assembled using 63Sn/37Pb eutectic solder paste on an automated assembly line. The thermal cycle range was ‐40°C to 125°C with 30‐minute transition times and 15 minutes at each extreme in a single chamber air system. For each test matrix cell, 120 zero ohm resistors (40 from three boards) were continuously monitored for electrical failure (>100ohms). In addition, resistors were sheared from test vehicles and the shear force at failure was recorded. A decrease in shear force did occur with thermal cycling due to crack initiation and growth in the solder joints. Solder joint cracks have also been examined.
A critique of pure reason and of practical reason in economics: on the threshold of a third revolution in economic thinking
Authors: Rugina Anghel N.
Published: April 2007

Looks at the impact John Maynard Keynes and the movement (Keynesian) he started had on the theory and practice of economics in the 1930s and onwards. Identifies respective problems about capitalism and discusses them in depth. States that the monetary and fiscal policies recommended by Keynes have helped the West escape severe social consequences in the aftermath of the Great Depression. Goes on to show how economists after Keynes carried his work forward and upward in the 1940s and 1950s. Closes by stating there is a further, third revolution in economic thinking on the rise.
O’Brien, civilisation and aggression
Authors: Armour Leslie
Published: April 2007

Civilisation is not possible unless aggression can be brought under control. It is armed aggression – aggression by governments and by groups that hope to become governments – that most strongly threatens human survival. About this, Freud’s theorizing most strongly captures the imagination. Professor O’Brien begins with a persuasive account of this theory, brings out its importance, and suggests lines of exploration. There are four problems with Freudian explanation: Freud’s theories explain too much and therefore explain nothing; the logic of claims about unconscious motives poses difficulties; Freud uses tautologies as explanations; Freud stretches concepts like that of desire. This paper explores these problems and then takes up O’Brien’s other suggestive analyses.
An American‐British economic, monetary, financial and social stabilization plan
Authors: Rugina Anghel N.
Published: April 2007

The equation of unified knowledge says that S = f (A,P) which means that the practical solution to a given problem is a function of the existing, empirical, actual realities and the future, potential, best possible conditions of general stable equilibrium which both pure and practical reason, exhaustive in the Kantian sense, show as being within the realm of potential realities beyond any doubt. The first classical revolution in economic thinking, included in factor “P” of the equation, conceived the economic and financial problems in terms of a model of ideal conditions of stable equilibrium but neglected the full consideration of the existing, actual conditions. That is the main reason why, in the end, it failed. The second modern revolution, included in factor “A” of the equation, conceived the economic and financial problems in terms of the existing, actual conditions, usually in disequilibrium or unstable equilibrium (in case of stagnation) and neglected the sense of right direction expressed in factor “P” or the realization of general, stable equilibrium. That is the main reason why the modern revolution failed in the past and is failing in front of our eyes in the present. The equation of unified knowledge, perceived as a sui generis synthesis between classical and modern thinking has been applied rigorously and systematically in writing the enclosed American‐British economic, monetary, financial and social stabilization plans. In the final analysis, a new economic philosophy, based on a synthesis between classical and modern thinking, called here the new economics of unified knowledge, is applied to solve the malaise of the twentieth century which resulted from a confusion between thinking in terms of stable equilibrium on the one hand and disequilibrium or unstable equilibrium on the other.
CONSUMPTION‐John Paul II, Catholic social thought and the ethics of consumption
Authors: Wilber Charles K.
Published: April 2007

In this essay, the author identifies three reasons why consumption, or more precisely excessive consumption, is emphasized in Catholic social thought including most recently John Paul II’s 1991 encyclical Centesimus Annus: the moral conflict between the abundance enjoyed by the few and the poverty endured by the many; the threat to the environment from excessive consumption; and the human degradation from a cultural environment wherein having more is valued above being more. In his essay, Wilber offers a personalist alternative to the neo‐classical position that satisfying individual preferences, as expressed in the market, is the only measure of economic welfare.
How firm characteristics affect capital structure: an empirical study
Authors: Eriotis Nikolaos , Vasiliou Dimitrios , Ventoura‐Neokosmidi Zoe
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The aim of this study is to isolate the firm characteristics that affect capital structure.

Design/methodology/approach

The investigation has been performed using panel data procedure for a sample of 129 Greek companies listed on the Athens Stock Exchange during 1997‐2001. The number of the companies in the sample corresponds to the 63 per cent of the listed firms in 1996. The firm characteristics are analyzed as determinants of capital structure according to different explanatory theories. The hypothesis that is tested in this paper is that the debt ratio at time t depends on the size of the firm at time t, the growth of the firm at time t, its quick ratio at time t and its interest coverage ratio at time t. The firms that maintain a debt ratio above 50 per cent using a dummy variable are also distinguished.

Findings

The findings of this study justify the hypothesis that there is a negative relation between the debt ratio of the firms and their growth, their quick ratio and their interest coverage ratio. Size appears to maintain a positive relation and according to the dummy variable there is a differentiation in the capital structure among the firms with a debt ratio greater than 50 per cent and those with a debt ratio lower than 50 per cent. These results are consistent with the theoretical background presented in the second section of the paper.

Originality/value

This paper goes someway to proving that financial theory does provide some help in understanding how the chosen financing mix affects the firm's value.
Using the focus group approach for evaluating customers’ opinions: the experience of a Brazilian academic library
Authors: Júlia Leitão Bárbara , Vergueiro Waldomiro
Published: April 2007

Taking the international literature in information sciences as the starting point, discusses the focus group approach and its use in the information services environment. Describes and analyses an experience with this technique in the School of Communications and Arts of the University of São Paulo, Brazil. Aims to demonstrate its viability for academic libraries in developing countries, arguing that it provides valuable data towards the improvement of quality in the services. Proposes the integration of this technique into library planning.
Library to library: global pairing for mutual benefit
Authors: Long Sarah
Published: April 2007

Sarah Long’s Sister Library Program began as an initiative of her American Library Association Presidency and continues as a project of the American Library Association’s International Relations Round Table. This article describes components of the ALA Presidential project and activities of model Sister Library relationships. It summarizes the results of a program at the IFLA Conference in Jerusalem in August 2000 that presented perspectives from various programs for global library pairings and reviewed what has been learned over the past few years about global partnerships.
Lied Library
Authors: Russell Diane
Published: April 2007

Describes the new Lied Library at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV). Designed to incorporate cutting‐edge technology, it is envisaged that the new library will serve the needs of UNLV, and members of the Southern Nevada community, for the next 30 years or more, allowing users not only to access the collections physically housed in the Lied Library, but also linking them to electronic data worldwide. Features include 250 electronic workstations, a robotic storage and retrieval system for little used materials, a study‐café area, group study rooms, a media distribution centre and a facility whereby traditional microfilm can be integrated with a personal computer.
European Community Information on CD‐ROM
Authors: Chandler Helen E.
Published: April 2007

There are few aspects of modern life which remain unaffected by the
governances of the European Community (EC), and people need to be
informed. Before CD‐ROM technology, access to EC information had been
comparatively difficult for information workers outside specialist EC
centres. Information specialists of the 1990s, in contrast, have a
choice of several CD‐ROM products in this field. To help facilitate the
selection process, presents an overview and appraisal of a range of
these CD‐ROMs, featuring EC Infodisk and the Justis series of databases.
Each product contains some information which overlaps with that of
another, yet each has its unique attributes. It is important to be aware
of the alternatives available, and to evaluate them against EC
information sources in other formats when making a selection on a
restricted budget.
Getting the records straight – developments in records
management
Authors: Hare Catherine , Southwood Graham
Published: April 2007

The growth in the volume of records and developments in technology
and business practice are changing the role of records managers.
Technology has given users greater power in records creation with a
consequent risk of falling standards and possible disastrous failures of
systems. The inevitable obsolescence of technologies, their complexity
and potential vulnerability require significant effort in the management
of the records they create. The necessary analysis of existing processes
before implementing systems based on new technologies can in itself show
how improvements can be achieved even without changing the technology.
Such analysis is essential in the growing area of business process
re‐engineering. Changes in business practice include emphasis on quality
and service provision. Outsourcing, with its associated requirements for
performance measurement, costing and charging out, now embraces records
services. These developments affect the records manager′s role in
establishing and implementing standards and procedures and require him
to be at the forefront of introducing and using new technologies and
business practices.
Searching CD‐ROM databases for non‐English‐speaking users
Authors: Al‐Qaisi Manal , Nazim Ali S.
Published: April 2007

Describes how access to English‐language information by
non‐English‐speaking students and faculty at a Middle Eastern university
is being facilitated by making available a variety of machine‐readable
sources, particularly CD‐ROM, and how not only searching of these
sources but also use of the information retrieved are made possible by
several means including: the provision by faculty and library staff of
translations into English of information requests made in Arabic; the
publication of bilingual dictionaries covering a wide range of
scientific, technological and other disciplines; and the recent
development, by other institutions, of a number of online, multilingual
databases covering computer terms and a wide range of science and
technology fields, accessible via Gulfnet and the Internet. Anticipates
the development of an all‐sources database accessible through all public
search‐and‐retrieval terminals.
An idealist’s charter for public libraries
Authors: Owen David
Published: April 2007

If there is such a thing as the “public library
movement”, where is it today and where is it going? Discusses the
motive forces that shape its values and beliefs and how they differ from
those of our predecessors, if at all. Examines whether there is a public
library ideology which commands majority support on whether each public
librarian needs to establish his/her own. Looks at modern political,
economic and social systems and whether the traditional values of the
free public library′s founding fathers are redundant or whether they
will still be relevant in the millennium. Speculates on the shape and
state of public libraries in 2002 and how some people will react.
Policing electronic information: threats to freedom of expression
Authors: Atton Chris
Published: April 2007

Considers two limits on freedom of expression in electronic media:
the regulation of the Internet and electronic copyright. Examines these
in two case studies, one on the status of anarchist publishing on the
Internet, the other on the use of sampling in the creation of new
recordings. Notes that these limits have been applied most effectively
to small, alternative creators and publishers and result from narrow
views of electronic media. Recommends that librarians address the use of
electronic media in the light of freedom of expression, rather than in
commercial and legal terms.
Towards 2000
Authors: Shimmon Ross
Published: April 2007

Looks at the future of libraries as we approach the year 2000, and
the changing nature of information technology. Argues that there is a
need for libraries and the people who work in them to convince
themselves and others of their continuing worth. Welcomes the arrival of
the Library and Information Commission as a body of which the Government
and other decision makers must take notice.
Moments of sorrow and joy
Authors: Odekerken‐Schröder Gaby , van Birgelen Marcel , Lemmink Jos , de Ruyter Ko , Wetzels Martin
Published: April 2007

It is commonly acknowledged that service quality can be measured by using attribute‐based and incident‐based measurements. Both methods are distinct in nature, but can be used complementarily. However, in the literature a simultaneous empirical investigation of the power of critical incidents in relation to attribute scores is lacking. In this paper we merge both methods for assessing service quality in a professional services context. Subsequently, both measurements have been used to investigate the effect of service quality on short‐term customer satisfaction and long‐term trust in the service provider. Results indicate that the combined approach adds value to single‐method measurement for explaining customer satisfaction. Furthermore, negative incidents are more influential on satisfaction than positive experiences. However, the negative effect of a negative incident on satisfaction can be compensated for by paying attention to particular dimensions of service quality. Critical incidents do not seem to have an impact on the apparently stable construct of trust.
A synthesis of contemporary market orientation perspectives
Authors: Lafferty Barbara A. , Tomas M. Hult G.
Published: April 2007

A great deal of attention has been devoted to the concept of market orientation in marketing academe and practice. Numerous perspectives have been proposed as researchers endeavor to conceptualize the market orientation construct and implement it in practice. Presents a conceptual framework that integrates five recently advanced perspectives on market orientation (Deshpande, Farley, and Webster; Kohli and Jaworski; Narver and Slater; Ruekert; Shapiro). The similarities and differences are reviewed and a synthesized conceptualization of market orientation is offered, followed by a discussion of market orientation as a managerial versus cultural phenomenon to achieving a competitive advantage.
The effects of bilingualism on the consumer: the case of Spain
Authors: Redondo‐Bellón Ignacio
Published: April 2007

Analyses the influence of the use of Spanish and of regional languages in consumers and homes of five bilingual regions of Spain: Balearic Islands, Basque Country, Catalonia, Galicia and Valencia. After eliminating the effects of social class and of habitat, a fair number of significant differences have been found between speakers of Castilian (i.e. Spanish), bilinguals and speakers of their own vernacular language, in very varied areas: food, drinks, home cleaning products, financial services, cosmetics and personal hygiene products, shopping stores, reading of newspapers, supplements and magazines, home equipping and makes of car. Language has revealed itself as a good criterion for segmentation in various sectors and regions in order to reach each linguistic group more efficiently.
A cultural analysis of Japanese tourists: challenges for tourism marketers
Authors: Reisinger Yvette , Turner Lindsay
Published: April 2007

Presents the results of an empirical analysis of the cultural differences between Australian and Japanese populations in a tourism context. Argues that the challenge for tourism marketers lies in understanding the cultural make‐up of the Japanese market, and developing culture‐oriented marketing strategies. Identifies the major reasons for the decline in Japanese tourist arrivals to Australia. Compares the Japanese and Western cultural orientation. Describes and interprets the cultural dimensions identified by a principal components analysis. Determines the most critical cultural dimensions and their indicators by a LISREL analysis. The findings show that the key cultural factors influencing Japanese holiday experiences in Australia are culturally determined perceptions of service and interpersonal relations with hosts. Presents the impact of cultural traits on Japanese tourist perceptions of Australian service and interpersonal contact with hosts. Discusses the implications of these findings for tourism marketers.
Electromagnetics and coupled problems
Authors: Barba P.Di
Published: April 2007

Introduces the fourth and final chapter of the ISEF 1999 Proceedings by stating electric and magnetic fields are influenced, in a reciprocal way, by thermal and mechanical fields. Looks at the coupling of fields in a device or a system as a prescribed effect. Points out that there are 12 contributions included ‐ covering magnetic levitation or induction heating, superconducting devices and possible effects to the human body due to electric impressed fields.
Determination of losses’ local distribution for transformer optimal designing
Authors: Clénet S. , Cros J. , Piriou F. , Viarouge P. , Lefebvre L.P.
Published: April 2007

This paper presents the development of a procedure for the determination of the local magnetic loss distribution in transformer cores. An efficient identification method of the parameters of the Jiles‐Atherton model is first described. This method uses nonlinear optimization techniques and several experimental loops with different magnitudes, or measurements obtained with a low frequency supply signal, for a precise determination of the hysteresis model parameters. It is validated by the identification of two different kinds of magnetic materials: a standard laminated material made of 1008 steel and a soft magnetic composite Atomet‐EM1. The implementation of the hysteresis Jiles‐Atherton model in a 2D field calculation tool is detailed. The field calculation procedure is illustrated by two application examples involving single phase tranformers with cores made of the soft magnetic composite Atomet‐EM1.
Impact of positioning and number of polarimetric measurements on the plasma reconstruction in fusion devices
Authors: Bettini P. , Formisano A. , Martone R. , Trevisan F. , Stella A.
Published: April 2007

The identification of plasma parameters from different sets of measurements is a key topic in the thermonuclear fusion research. Most of the information relevant to the plasma shape and position control is usually gained via external magnetic measurements, but information related to internal distribution of current density is not accessible in this way. Other possible measurements are available. In this paper a performance analysis is done with respect to the adoption of polarimetric measurements.
On the notion of anisotropy of constitutive laws
Authors: Bossavit Alain
Published: April 2007

We argue that, in static situations (magnetostatics, for instance) all materials can be considered as locally isotropic, though not homogeneous. Genuine anisotropy appears only in dynamic situations, e.g., in wave propagation problems.
A fast 3D eddy current integral formulation
Authors: Albanese R. , Rubinacci G. , Tamburrino A. , Ventre S. , Villone F.
Published: April 2007

In this paper we present a fast method for the computation of matrix‐by‐vector products arising from the discretization of an integral formulation of the three‐dimensional eddy current problem. The approach is based on the distinction between short and long range interactions. The features of the method will be discussed with reference to some numerical examples, also in view of an extension to the nonlinear case of superconductors.
Calculation of the field map from the measurement data of the fluxset sensor
Authors: Pávó József , Bíró Oszkár , Hollaus Karl
Published: April 2007

The relation between the output of the fluxset sensor and the magnetic field is established by the numerical and experimental investigation of an ECT set‐up. A fast calculation method has been developed for obtaining the magnetic field generated by the interaction of the probe and the crack in a finite plate by superimposing the results obtained by the analysis of a finite plate without a crack and an infinite plate with a crack. The calculations are made by FEM and boundary integral methods, respectively. The relationship between the measured output and the magnetic field is obtained by calculating the calibration factors giving the best fit of the two sets of data. Based on the results, a numerical tool is developed for the quantitative evaluation of magnetic field sensors applied to the measurement of spatially inhomogeneous fields.
Numerical calculation of total force upon permanent magnets using equivalent source methods
Authors: Delfino Federico , Manella Andrea , Molfino Paolo , Rossi Mansueto
Published: April 2007

The application of the equivalent source methods for the numerical calculation of the total magnetic force acting upon a permanent magnet is proposed. These methods are formulated in terms of the external field, which allows the complete avoidance of the numerical inaccuracies affecting force computation due to the singularity of the self‐field of the magnet on its edges. It is shown, with the help of some 2D and 3D test cases, that the proposed formulae provide reliable and stable results, even when the FEM mesh is not refined. Such results have also been compared with those derived from more traditional methods, such as the surface integration of the Maxwell’s stress tensor and the virtual work method, exhibiting better precision and lower computational costs.
A comparison of 2D and 3D analysis methods for the prediction of cogging torque in an electrical machine having skewed slots
Authors: Lowther David A. , Forghani Behzad , Deshpande Uday
Published: April 2007

Two‐ and three‐dimensional computations of the cogging torque in a brushless dc motor are compared with measurements for both skewed and unskewed stators. The modeling of stator skew is considered both using a full three dimensional model with and without material anisotropy and using a set of displaced two‐dimensional slices. The errors inherent in the latter approach are discussed. A cost/benefit trade‐off between three‐dimensional and two‐dimensional analyses is considered.
Adaptive manifold‐mapping using multiquadric interpolation applied to linear actuator design
Authors: Lahaye D. , Canova A. , Gruosso G. , Repetto M.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

This work aims to present a multilevel optimization strategy based on manifold‐mapping combined with multiquadric interpolation for the coarse model construction.

Design/methodology/approach

In the proposed approach the coarse model is obtained by interpolating the fine model using multiquadrics in a small number of points. As the algorithm iterates the response surface model is improved by enriching the set of interpolation points.

Findings

This approach allows to accurately solve the TEAM Workshop Problem 25 using as little as 33 finite element simulations. Furthermore, it allows a robust sizing optimization of a cylindrical voice‐coil actuator with seven design variables.

Research limitations/implications

Further analysis is required to gain a better understanding of the role that the initial coarse model accuracy plays in the convergence of the algorithm. The proposed model allows to carry out such analysis by varying the number of points included in the initial response surface model. The effect of the trust‐region stabilization in the presence of manifolds of equivalent solutions is also a topic of further investigations.

Originality/value

Unlike the closely related space‐mapping algorithm, the manifold‐mapping algorithm is guaranteed to converge to a fine model optimal solution. By combining it with multiquadric response surface models, its applicability is extended to problems for which other kinds of coarse model such as lumped parameter approximations for instance are tedious or impossible to construct.
Iterative identification of hysteresis in Maxwell's equations
Authors: Kaltenbacher B.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

In a model resulting from Maxwell's equations with a constitutive law using Preisach operators for incorporating magnetization hysteresis, this paper aims at identifying the hysteresis operator, i.e. the Preisach weight function, from indirect measurements.

Design/methodology/approach

Dealing with a nonlinear inverse problem, one has to apply iterative methods for its numerical solution. For this purpose several approaches are proposed based on fixed point or Newton type ideas. In the latter case, one has to take into account nondifferentiability of the hysteresis operator. This is done by using differentiable substitutes or quasi‐Newton methods.

Findings

Numerical tests with synthetic data show that fixed point methods based on fitting after a full forward sweep (alternating iteration) and Newton type iterations using the hysteresis centerline or commutation curve exhibit a satisfactory convergence behavior, while fixed point iterations based on subdividing the time interval (Kaczmarz) suffer from instability problems and quasi Newton iterations (Broyden) are too slow in some cases.

Research limitations/implications

Application of the proposed methods to measured data will be the subject of future research work.

Practical implications

The proposed methodologies allow to determine material parameters in hysteresis models from indirect measurements.

Originality/value

Taking into account the full PDE model, one can expect to get accurate and reliable results in this model identification problem. Especially the use of Newton type methods – taking into account nondifferentiability – is new in this context.
Two new variants of the manifold‐mapping technique
Authors: Echeverría D.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

Manifold‐mapping (MM) is an efficient surrogate‐based optimization technique aimed at the acceleration of very time‐consuming design problems. In this paper we present two new variants of the original algorithm that make it applicable to a broader range of optimization scenarios.

Design/methodology/approach

The first variant is useful when the optimization constraints are expressed by means of functions that are very expensive to compute. The second variant endows the original scheme with a trust‐region strategy and the result is a much more robust algorithm.

Findings

Two practical optimization problems from electromagnetics eventually show that the proposed variants perform efficiently.

Originality/value

The original MM algorithm is extended with two new variants. Therefore, the MM approach is applicable to a much larger set of design situations.
Lorentz gauge eddy current formulations for multiply connected piecewise homogeneous conductors
Authors: Bryant C.F. , Emson C.R.I. , Fernandes P. , Trowbridge C.W.
Published: April 2007

Vector potential formulations of Maxwell’s equations need to be gauged, otherwise nodally based finite element approximations lead to an ill conditioned linear system. In this paper alternative Lorentz gauge formulations will be analysed. Particular attention will be paid to the conditions to be applied at material interfaces, bearing in mind ease of implementation in a finite element code and efficiency of solution. The methods discussed are designed to cope with the most challenging physical situations, namely, multiply connected abutting conductors made of different materials.
A computer‐aided instrument for pattern recognition of partial discharges
Authors: Schifani Rosario , Mirelli Giuseppe
Published: April 2007

In this paper a new computer‐aided digital system for partial discharge (PD) measurements is presented. The system is able to collect a great number of data, up to a pulse repetition rate of 100kHz, during the acquisition phase, thus allowing an off‐line analysis of PD data. After a description of the instrument, some experimental tests performed on epoxy specimens are here presented in terms of amplitude, phase and energy resolved histograms. Finally, emphasis is given to the very interesting use of the instrument for pattern recognition techniques in the discrimination and classification of discharges in HV components.
Infinite elements for axisymmetric electrical field problems with open boundaries
Authors: Gratkowski Stanislaw
Published: April 2007

The paper presents infinite elements for axisymmetric electrical field problems with open boundaries. The formulation of the elements is so simple that closed‐form expressions for the infinite element matrix are obtained. In order to test the infinite elements, a simple problem, for which an analytical solution exists, is analysed.
A triangle illusion with explanations
Authors: Lee Edward T. , Lee Madonna E.
Published: April 2007

Human beings are highly visual creatures. The neural nets in our brains are good at recognizing and retrieving visual patterns. An interesting aspect of human vision is that a neural net may be recognizing a pattern that does not exist. In this paper, a triangle illusion with explanations is presented.
Frank H. George Research Award winning paper Cancer self‐remission and tumour instability – a cybernetic analysis Towards a fresh paradigm for cancer treatment
Authors: Dutta Majumder D. , Roy Prasun Kumar
Published: April 2007

Aims to investigate the causative factors and clinical applicability of spontaneous regression of malignant tumours without treatment, a really paradoxical phenomenon with many therapeutic potentialities. Analyses past cases to find that the commonest cause is a preceding episode of high fever‐induced thermal fluctuation which produces fluctuation of biochemical/immunological parameters. Using Prigogine‐Glansdorff‐Langevin stability theory and biocybernetic principles, develops the theoretical foundation of a tumour’s self‐control, homeostasis and regression induced by thermal, radiation or oxygenation fluctuations. Derives a threshold condition of perturbations for producing regression. Presents some striking confirmation of such fluctuation‐induced regression in Ewing tumour, Clear cell cancer and Lewis lung carcinoma. Using experimental data on patients, elucidates a novel therapeutic approach of multi‐modal hyper‐fluctuation utilizing radiotherapeutic hyper‐fractionation, temperature and immune‐status.
The genicAgent: a hybrid approach for multi‐agent problem solving
Authors: Saci Emilie A. , Cherruault Yves
Published: April 2007

The genicAgent is a particularly original multi‐agent approach that integrates an intelligent technique – neural networks. Genetic algorithms are used to evolve the genicAgent. This approach has the individual advantages of each separate intelligent technique. The multi‐agent system, based on the genicAgent approach (called GAMAS), is a generator of knowledge‐based problem‐solving systems. The knowledge base can be explicitly defined or can be acquired via both the learning capabilities of the neural network component and the training that occurs during evolution. Focuses only on the description of the genicAgent approach.
A VLSI systolic implementation of the Hopfield and back‐propagation neural algorithms
Authors: Ghanemi S. , Mohamed Ben Ali Y.
Published: April 2007

Combining the parallel and neural paradigms seems, at first glance, to be a natural process, since it is a methodology derived from the part played by the biological and mathematical behavior of a neuron. It is proposed that any neural algorithm is inherently a parallel application. The structure of a neural algorithm and the function of a neuron suggest the choice of the systolic approach. However, interest should be restricted only to those well‐known neural models such as the Hopfield and back‐propagation neural networks. It is also shown that the systolic approach is best suited to the parallelization of the patterns training phase of the neural algorithms in terms of mapping the two structures (systolic and neural networks).
Intelligent agent behavior based on organizational image theory
Authors: Schwartz David G. , Te’eni Dov
Published: April 2007

Image theory has been used, in numerous studies, as a basis for understanding and describing the decision‐making activity of managers in both cooperative and competitive environments. The fundamental division of duties prescribed by image theory – namely adoption decisions and progress decision – maps very well to the adaptability requirements of intelligent agents. The issues of adaptive planning and execution monitoring in agents can be well served by applying the empirical lessons learned from the application of image theory across groups of decision makers. This paper explores the concepts of adoption and progress decisions in the context of image theory and provides a basis for creating image‐theoretic agents. This paper sets the foundation for an interdisciplinary bridge between Beach and Mitchell’s Image Theory for human decision making, and the construction of intelligent agents. We begin by presenting image theory and describing its use among human decision makers. We then show how the mechanisms of image theory can be implemented in an agent‐based architecture to implement both execution monitoring and adaptive planning. This is done through the image‐theoretic constructs of progress decisions and adoption decisions. We conclude by presenting logic‐programming implementation of the Imaginal Agent Architecture that supports the adaptive planning and execution monitoring of agents through the use of meta‐level constructs for adoption and progress decisions.
Evolution science and infrastructural analysis of the second stir
Authors: OuYang Shoucheng , Lin Yi , Wang Zhong , Peng Taoyong
Published: April 2007

Argues that the purpose for the existence of the evolution science since the seventeenth century is how to once again understand the evolution science and its origin. Explains, on the basis of this new understanding, how some of the problems dating from the seventeenth century can now be resolved. Finally, briefly describes the method of infrastructural analysis of the second stir.
Solution of the three‐dimensional transport equation using the spectral methods
Authors: Kadem Abdelouahab
Published: April 2007

Purpose

The paper presents a method for solving the 3D steady state, linear transport equation in bounded domain.

Design/methodology/approach

The method can be extended easily to general linear transport problem.

Findings

The idea of using the spectral method for searching solutions to the multi‐dimensional transport problems, leads us to a solution for all values of the independent variables.

Research limitations/implications

The procedure is based on the development of the angular flux in a truncated series of Chebyshev polynomials in the spatial variables.

Practical implications

The methodology used will permit us to transform the 3D problem into a set of 1D problems. The convergence of this approach is studied in the context of the discrete‐ordinates method.

Originality/value

An adaptation of this method for the convergence of the spectral solution within the framework of the analytical solution to study and prove convergence is relatively new.
Wiener and the art of communication
Authors: Gabor D.
Published: April 2007

Published posthumously, presented in 1965 at the Wiener Memorial Meeting. Concerned with Norbert Wiener who, while rendering great services to engineering, always remained a pure mathematician. Considers that the principal achievement of Wiener is that he establishes the link between statistical phenomena and the arts of communication and control. Provides examples of Wiener’s method of treating random phenomena and considers it to be very characteristic of his approach to physical problems. Outlines much of Wiener’s works relating to communication and discusses what he believes to be even more important, his contribution to the art of communication. Looks at the relationship of Wiener’s work to Shannon’s, as it was then understood, and to their position in the whole vast field of information theory.
The ethics of negative options: the case of US West Communications
Authors: Leventhal Richard C.
Published: April 2007

Many corporations that engage in direct marketing have been more sensitized to the concept of ethics in marketing than in years past. The marketing manager must be capable of formulating as well as implementing policy that calls not only for economic reasoning but also for ethical awareness. This case study examines the marketing strategies of a major US telecommunications corporation that employed the use of a negative option approach in its attempt to sign up the maximum number of telephone subscribers to a new service when it was first offered in 1982. As it will be shown in this case study, their marketing efforts turned out to be poorly executed and ethically questionable.
Copyright in the networked world: sound publication
Authors: Seadle Michael
Published: April 2007

There are times when the US copyright laws seem to stem from a culture that puts little value on providing public access to its own past. Two recent conferences discussed problems raised by copyright laws for those interested in multimedia (especially sound) recordings. Part of the discussion focused on how to interpret the copyright status of pre‐1972 sound recordings. One provision of the current law appears to throw all pre‐1972 sound recordings into a uniquely old‐fashioned situation where no federal copyright regulation applies until all protection ceases in 2067. Many common assumptions based on the 1976 law and on analogies from print may not hold up.
An introduction to the open source software issue
Authors: Muir Scott P.
Published: April 2007

Purpose

To introduce the Library Hi Tech theme issue on open source software.

Design/methodology/approach

At the Hackfest before Access 2004 (a Canadian library technology conference) several people started to code open source software (OSS) solutions.

Findings

Some groups estimated they were close to 25 percent done – in just a few days, while attending Access Conference sessions all day.

Originality/value

Developments in the OSS library community should encourage you to experiment with these applications, or maybe even develop your own.
The efficacy of power and influence strategies in a conventional channel: a Singapore perspective
Authors: Shamdasani Prem , Tat Keh Hean , Ter‐Sin Chan Kenny
Published: April 2007

In contrast to many studies that were conducted in a Western context, this study seeks to extend the understanding and empirical findings on power, dependence, and interfirm influence strategies by examining these issues within a channel of distribution in Singapore. Research hypotheses are developed, centering on the relationship between a manufacturer’s power and its use of coercive and noncoercive influence strategies as well as the reciprocal use of coercive and noncoercive influence strategies in the channel dyad. Data from a field study of personal computer dealers are used in testing the research hypotheses. In contrast to most previous studies, a multiple‐item measure of influence strategies is used. Among the findings is that a manufacturer in this channel setting tends to use both coercive and noncoercive influence strategies in influencing its dealers.
Towards an institutional theory of the dynamics of industrial networks
Authors: Melo Brito Carlos
Published: April 2007

The study of interorganisational cooperation has gained increased currency. An important empirical and conceptual contribution in this field owes much to the network approach. The picture provided by the network approach contrasts with other models that regard cooperation as a mere contractual and legal inter‐corporate connection. Whilst accepting the existence of formal types of collaborative arrangements, the network approach emphasises the importance of informal and emergent cooperation. This paper is an attempt to extend the current perspective by focusing on interorganisational cooperation in the context of collective action phenomena. These usually involve a large number of actors concerned with the formulation of market rules, the prevention of instability and disorder and, in general, the promotion or defence of their mutual interests. The paper offers an institutional explanation of why and how collective actions emerge and influence the shape and evolution of industrial networks.
Read ’em and weep
Authors: Gillette Felix
Published: April 2007

As many large, urban areas have struggled to maintain a questionable building or build a new public library, the federal city, Washington DC, is not without similar conflicts. Add a cast of characters of city level politicians; new land available and city owned blocks away; a sad, but realistic budget; a building designed by a world renowned architect, despite that it is falling down around patrons; and you have questions that have been ignored by officials for decades. The biggest question: What is the best way to revive a decrepit central library, and how do you pay for it?
Dividends: the value of public libraries in Canada
Authors: Fitch Leslie , Warner Jody
Published: April 2007

Reports the findings of research conducted for the Library Action Committee of the Book and Periodical Council, Canada, into the importance of public libraries to library users, suppliers, publishers, retailers and other businesses; as well as to Canadian culture. Analyses the effects of reduced funding to public libraries on the economy and society at large.
Knowledge Work Supervision: transforming school systems into high performing learning organizations
Authors: Duffy Francis M.
Published: April 2007

Asks the question: what if the focus of educational supervision was to shift from inspecting individual teacher‐behaviour to examining and improving three sets of key organizational variables ‐ work processes, social architecture and environmental relationships? What if supervision could be transformed from performance evaluation into a process for designing high performing schools? Presents the paradigm of Knowledge Work Supervision, an innovative model of educational supervision designed to achieve what is alluded to in the above questions. It is a systemic and systematic model for redesigning the anatomy (structures), physiology (flow of information and webs of relationships) and psychology (beliefs, values) of an entire school system. Explains that the paradigm is cyclical, having four phases each with several activities, and it was constructed by reviewing real‐world practices in several interrelated areas: socio‐technical systems design, knowledge work, quality improvement, business process re‐engineering and organization development. Claims that Knowledge Work Supervision marks the leading edge of an emerging paradigm shift in the field of educational supervision.
Leadership development: the heart of the matter
Authors: Kaagan Stephen S.
Published: April 2007

Educators have a comparative advantage over other professionals when it comes to leadership development. They should exploit it in the years ahead to improve the enterprise for which they are responsible. Whether they can capture the moment, take advantage of their deeper understanding of teaching and learning and skirt some of the expensive miscues that prevent others from being an effective force in leadership development remains to be seen. This article assembles and discusses the components necessary for making the most of the present set of circumstances. It explores the terrain of contemporary initiatives in leadership development, critiques the assumptions on which they are based, and makes a case for the more cost‐effective deployment of experiential approaches to educating leaders.
Public sector reform – Implications for accounting, accountability and performance of state‐owned entities – an Australian perspective
Authors: Hoque Zahirul , Moll Jodie
Published: April 2007

Faced by increased globalization, the dissatisfaction of Australian citizens, and a curtailing of spending, the Australian Government has embarked on a major reform agenda centered on new public management ideals to achieve greater economy, efficiency, and effectiveness. A major driver of reform in all levels of government has been the introduction of the national competition policy. Describes the recent developments in Australian public sector and discusses reform implications for accounting, accountability and performance in Queensland local governments. Suggests that accounting plays a significant role in promoting accountability, efficiency and effectiveness of public sector services.
Demystifying Privatization in Developing Countries
Authors: Basu Prahlad K.
Published: April 2007

State intervention is needed to dismantle the protective regime of
“government failure” and expose the developing economies to
the new rigour of global competition and technological advancement. In
addition to standing the test of welfare consequences, a developing
country′s agenda for privatization includes restructuring, reform,
commercialization, management‐cum‐technology contracts for public
enterprises and their leasing – prior to divestiture, joint
venture, hire purchase and disinvestment of minority, majority or full
shareholding through public offer or private sale. The backward and
forward linkages, the institutional framework, the pace and sequence,
planning and preparation and financing of privatization, with
transparency of procedure, are equally important preconditions for
avoiding corruption and ensuring efficiency. Divestiture without reform
can be counter‐productive. Divestiture without private sector
development can remain “stillborn”.